Charity director jobs in windermere, cumbria

We are looking to appoint an exceptional individual to join our team of six Strategic Partnership Advisors across England. In this role, you will support key partners, including Active Partnerships, National Governing Bodies of Sport, local authorities, and leisure providers to become more effective in their role of enabling more disabled people to be active.

You will possess a strong understanding of the sport and activity sector, including its operations, and be able to advocate for improvements that help more disabled people become active. Additionally, you will be aware of the broader systems and barriers that disabled people encounter in sports and activities, as well as organisations such as disabled people’s user-led organisations and various charities, to build relationships and foster effective cross-sector partnerships.

We are looking for an individual with experience of working strategically at a place based and/or locality level within the South West region. Someone who can positively influence local developments, systems and investments to tackle the inequalities disabled people face in sport and activity through inclusive practice.

The successful candidate will work remotely from home and be based in the South West region. This role will involve travel across the region and occasional travel to our Loughborough and Manchester offices.

This role is full-time (36 hours) and permanent.

We offer 26.5 days of annual leave, including birthday leave, plus bank holidays. Activity Alliance also closes between Christmas and New Year which means that employees are not expected to work during this time and they are not required to use their annual leave allowance to have this time free from work.

Activity Alliance currently offers the following benefits:

• Hybrid working
• Time off in lieu
• A contributory pension scheme (employee 6%, employer 9%)
• Childcare vouchers
• Cycle to work scheme
• Eye care
• Employee engagement initiatives such as away days
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme
• Menopause policy
• Enhanced sickness pay
• Group Income Protection
• Death in service
• Training and development opportunities

CCT has an international award-winning reputation in heritage conservation and regeneration. All churches in our care are listed, mostly Grade I and II*, and some are Scheduled Ancient Monuments.

Without our care, these buildings might have disappeared entirely. Instead, they are enjoyed as social, tourism, educational and cultural resources, kept open, in use, and living once again in the heart of their communities.

The Head of Region provides strategic and operational leadership in the region, ensuring the effective and efficient operation of the regional team and the successful development and delivery of the regional business plan and projects. The role drives the achievement of key performance indicators and targets with a particular focus on church income and community engagement. 

Key relationships

Internally, the Head of Region works closely with the Director of Operations and other Heads of Region to support consistent operational delivery, and management and development of regional staff. The role also interacts closely with all other CCT teams including Conservation, Fundraising & Communication, Initiatives & Partnerships, and Finance.

Externally, the Head of Region is CCT’s regional representative, brokering joint working and engagement with statutory and Church of England stakeholders, funders, politicians at all levels, volunteers, communities and donors.

If you would like to apply for this role, please visit our recruitment portal to begin your application. You will be asked to submit a CV and a short supporting statement (max 2 sides A4) outlining why you’d like to apply and how you fulfil the person specification for this post, so you’ll need to refer to the job description.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 8am on Friday 9th May 2025

The interviews will take place in Northampton on Tuesday 20th May 2025. Please note that the interview date and location have been specifically chosen according to the availability of the panel.

We are a Disability Confident Committed Employer. Candidates who declare that they have a disability and who meet the essential criteria for the job will be offered an interview.

If you have any queries about this role, or if you have a disability and wish to request a reasonable adjustment at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.

We are an inclusive employer and offer equal opportunities to all regardless of an individual’s age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.

We are not a licensed sponsor at this time. Any offer of employment will be made subject to valid right to work in the UK being provided.

We're recruiting for a new role for someone to lead on People and Culture at Involve.

Involve has grown in terms of both its turnover and staffing headcount in recent years. In 2024, we marked our 20th anniversary and the need for this new role reflects the growth and maturity of the organisation as we build the infrastructure to support the larger, more established organisation of around 30 people.

The People and Culture lead will report to the Director of Finance and Support Services and be responsible for developing our HR policy and practice taking a holistic approach and embedding our values into HR policy, leading consultation with our union on policy development. They will work closely with the management team to support the development and implementation of strategies to foster a positive organisational culture and provide HR generalist support to our team.

The People and Culture lead will be a CIPD qualified HR professional with strong HR generalist experience allied with a participatory approach that supports us in developing an inclusive environment in which everyone is supported to grow, develop and contribute to achieving our mission. 

We work across the UK, with offices in Belfast and London. Many of our staff work from home across the UK or in a hybrid pattern, rather than being based at one of our offices, though we meet up regularly as a team.

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet historically just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Brain Tumour Research is determined to change this. 

Their vision is to find a cure for all types of brain tumours. To achieve their mission, they are looking for a Community Fundraiser who will proactively engage with supporters, community groups and volunteers across the West Midlands to join their team of 12 Community Fundraisers across the UK.

The Community Fundraiser (West Midlands) is responsible for providing support and guidance to fundraisers within their communities to achieve their ambitions and ultimately raise vital funds for Brain Tumour Research. This is achieved through a wide variety of activities such as helping supporters to make the most of their own fundraising, engaging participants with externally organised events such as the Great Birmingham Run, and encouraging communities to get involved in events organised by Brain Tumour Research such as Wear a Hat Day and Walk for Hope. The Community Fundraiser will be the face of Brain Tumour Research in the area, providing excellent stewardship to existing supporters, and building great relationships with new supporters.

This post has been vacant since Autumn, and as such needs a fundraiser with confidence and capability in fundraising to join the team, provide donor love to the loyal supporters in the area, and approach developing the areas potential with energy and enthusiasm. If you have fundraising experience and are keen to join a charity with ambition and an amazing supporter base, then this could be the role for you.

Please note the successful candidate will need to live within the region (Warwickshire, Staffordshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire and Gloucestershire), have access to a car and be willing to travel around their region. If you are not currently based in this area, please clarify if you have plans to relocate.  

Application notes 

Please download the Candidate Info Pack provided for further information about the role, timelines and next steps.

To progress your application, please follow instructions in the pack to organise an informal screening call. Please note, we cannot shortlist candidates who have not had a screening call. 

As this role has been vacant for some time, we are running rolling interview to see suitable candidates as they apply. Interviews will be kept to one stage, and organised to suit the candidate, where possible. Don’t delay – apply today! 

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, with around 300 people diagnosed every day. The Macular Society is the only charity determined to beat the fear and isolation of macular disease with world class research, and the best advice and support.

To support people affected by macular disease now, the Macular Society provides a range of support, information and services. Our research programme is focused on finding new treatments and a cure to Beat Macular Disease forever.

This exciting role is responsible for delivering income from a range of donors and prospects, with a focus on trusts and foundations, lottery and statutory sources, as well as HNWI. We are looking for an ambitious and strategic fundraiser with a proven track record of raising significant funds from charitable trusts and foundations, lottery and statutory sources as well as HNWI, who, alongside our existing team, will help to grow and develop this area of fundraising for the Macular Society. The post holder will have a proven eye for detail, an analytical nature, first class relationship management skills and a flair for writing successful applications.

In return, we provide a great working culture – we do something worthwhile and are proud to work together to Beat Macular Disease – as recognised by our inclusion in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2023 list. 

We offer flexible working options, 26 days annual leave, rising to 27 after one years’ service, the ability to buy or sell annual leave, supportive family policies, and 6% pension contribution.

We are passionate about treating people fairly and as equals, doing so is instinctive to us. To Beat Macular Disease for all we know we have work to do. That’s why we are keen to hear from people of all backgrounds who have the skills and experience we are looking for. We particularly encourage applications from people from under-represented groups, to help ensure what we do and how we do it is inclusive – for everyone.

Your new company
I am delighted to be working with a health-based charity in a vital role within the governance team. I am currently recruiting for a Head of Risk and Assurance on a 6-month temp contract, paying circa £600-£650/day. This role is largely remote, with occasional travel requirements. The overall purpose of the role is to ensure that the charity and its workforce comply with necessary regulations and manage all aspects of risk to the organisation, its employees, clients, reputation, assets, and interests of stakeholders. Specific risk areas include corporate governance, information security, regulatory compliance, insurance, and operational risk.

Your new role
The successful candidate will be:

• Leading People and Teams: Managing a team of 5, providing mentorship and support to ensure high performance and adherence to compliance standards.
• Risk Management: Designing policies and compliance plans, guiding and educating the management and workforce on compliance matters, and updating knowledge on regulatory changes.
• Business Continuity: Developing and overseeing control systems to deal with or prevent violations of legal guidelines, regulators, and internal policies. Evaluating the efficiency of controls and continuously improving them.
• CoSec Administration: Supporting the director in ensuring Directors are listed on Companies House and the Charity Commission.
• Risk Registers: Monitoring and managing risk registers, including operational risk registers and appetite.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Working with different levels of stakeholders, influencing and negotiating thoughtfully to drive results prioritised by the CEO.
• Supporting Risk Aware Culture: Promoting a risk-aware culture within the organisation, ensuring compliance with internal standards and business goals.

What you'll need to succeed
This position is suitable for someone who:

• Has a Risk Management and Internal Audit Certification.
• Proven experience of line managing a small team.
• Has worked in the charity sector and/or public sector.
• Proven experience in Risk Management, Assurance and Compliance
• Is experienced of working with the most senior officials in a large organisation.
• Can build trust and credibility with senior stakeholders and manage relationships (and build influence) with a range of junior and senior internal and external stakeholders.
• Has proven ability in long-term planning, aligned to strategic goals, delivering key outcomes and results.
• Is experienced in governance, governance legislation, and governance best practices (desirable).

What you'll get in return
This role is ideal for a strategic thinker with a strong background in governance, compliance, and risk management. If you thrive in dynamic environments and enjoy working closely with senior executives to drive impactful results, this position offers a unique opportunity to influence the direction of a prestigious health-based charity. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring effective governance and strategic planning, making a significant contribution to the organisation's success.

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

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Are you a charity leader with a passion for promoting and supporting breastfeeding across the UK?

A unique opportunity has arisen within a national breastfeeding charity to lead the organisation through an exciting new phase of development.

The Association of Breastfeeding Mothers (ABM) is looking for an inspiring and dynamic new chief executive in our first ever paid leadership role. This role will bring together trustees, staff and volunteers to build and develop the work of the charity in pursuit of our vision:  to create an environment where women and families are supported to have a positive breastfeeding experience, and lactation is valued.

You will have significant experience in a leadership role within a charity or healthcare setting, and will lead on the implementation of our new organisational strategy. The CEO will provide both strategic leadership and operational management, and develop a sustainable income generation plan to secure the long-term future of the charity.

As the public face and spokesperson for the organisation, you will have excellent communication skills, along with the broader skills and experience needed to collaborate with a diverse and complex volunteer team.

The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to the ABM’s ethos and values and solid experience in a senior leadership role.

Development Manager

Are you a passionate and skilled land and property professional with a heart for serving older Christians? We are seeking a Development Manager to play a key role in expanding and strengthening our mission to provide compassionate, faith-based care. This is a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of our residents while working alongside a dedicated and motivated team.

We are looking for a Development Manager who will be instrumental in driving our vision forward, identifying new land and acquisition opportunities, and ensuring the highest standards of development and innovation.

As a Development Manager, you will be responsible for leading on strategic development projects, forging key partnerships, and ensuring our growth and renewal programme moves forward in alignment with our mission.

If you are a dynamic and experienced land and property professional with a strong background in acquisitions, planning, project management, and a heart for Christian service, we invite you to apply now.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage strategic development projects from inception to completion.
• Identify and develop new opportunities for growth and expansion.
• Work collaboratively with key stakeholders .
• Manage budgets effectively and ensure financial sustainability of development initiatives.
• Prepare reports and provide updates to senior management and trustees.

Skills/Experience:

• Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills.
• Proven experience in land acquisition, development project management, or a similar role.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing development budgets.
• A proactive and innovative approach .
• IT proficient, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

Applicants must be evangelical Christians (This role has an Occupational Requirement to be filled by a Christian under the provisions of the Equality Act (2010).)

Hours:

Full-time, 40 hours per week.

Benefits:

• Salary: £54,000 per annum
• Remote working
• 5 Weeks' paid holiday per year as well as bank and public holidays
• On-going training and support
• Team events
• Pension scheme
• Care Friends referral 
• Medicash
• Perkbox – including an Employee assistance programme.
• Long-standing service rewards
• Birthday rewards

— What our staff say about us: “It is a friendly and welcoming place to work.” —

We are committed to having a diverse leadership team and encourage applications from disabled and Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic candidates, as these groups are currently underrepresented at the senior management level.

Closing date: 23rd May 2025 – However, this vacancy may close sooner if sufficient applications are received, so please apply as soon as possible if interested.

We are working in partnership with SongBird Survival, an independent charity working to solve the ecological crisis for songbirds through scientific research, to secure their new Scientific Research and Impact Manager.

Since 2000, SongBird Survival has been fighting for a better future for UK songbirds, and they are the only national UK charity solely dedicated to make a positive impact for songbirds in the face of this devastating ecological emergency. Their goals are to drive impactful conservation through scientific research, protect songbirds by raising awareness and inspiring action, and safeguarding the most at-risk songbird species in the UK. SongBird Survival do this by commissioning independent scientific research into the causes of the catastrophic decline in songbird numbers, translating research findings into actionable strategies, which aim to make a tangible difference in the protection and preservation of songbird populations. They also campaign for change, working with other NGOs and policymakers.

The Scientific Research and Impact Manager role is at the heart of SongBird Survival’s mission, ensuring that their research not only advances scientific understanding but also influences policy change, engages stakeholders, and strengthens communications and fundraising strategies. The postholder will oversee research projects, build key partnerships, and turn findings into practical conservation strategies. 

The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate:

• Degree level education in Ecology or an appropriate discipline or equivalent experience, with comprehensive knowledge of songbird and other small bird ecology.
• Knowledge and understanding of how scientific research is commissioned and delivered, as well as the ability to assimilate and appraise relevant information.
• Track record of translating scientific findings into policy, communications and stakeholder engagement.
• Knowledge of UK environmental policy and its impact on conservation efforts. 

For more information, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law. 

Hours: 0.8-1.0 FTE (Full time is 37.5 hours with use of flexi hours)
Location: Remote/home working with occasional travel and visits to SongBird Survival office in Diss Norfolk.

Closing date: 21 May 2025

Charisma interviews must be completed by EOD 28th May in preparation for submission of the shortlist on the 29th. 

About the role

We’re recruiting for a Head of Retail Operations for our Southern Division. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of driving success within five regions, leading a team of dedicated Regional Managers across 85 shops with around 270 colleagues.

This isn’t just about overseeing operations – it’s about owning them. You’ll have the freedom and autonomy to shape the strategy for your division, making key decisions on everything from financial performance to people development. You’ll build a values-led, inclusive culture – one where our people feel appreciated, respected and supported.

As part of the senior leadership team, you’ll play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of Mind Retail, bringing fresh ideas and driving initiatives that make a real impact. And because every pound we make in our shops helps support Mind’s mission, the work you do will have a lasting and meaningful impact.

This is a role for an ambitious leader – someone ready to take ownership, think strategically and inspire a team to do great things.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is a natural leader, passionate about creating high-performing teams and building an inclusive culture
• Has senior-level experience leading multi-site, large-scale retail operations and knows how to drive commercial success
• Understands retail finances inside out, from managing P&L’s, to spotting opportunities for growth
• Thinks strategically, but isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and make things happen
• Embodies our values and behaviours

Ready to make a difference?

Join Mind Retail. Join the fight for mental health.

Due to our commitment to work/life balance, you must live within reasonable travelling distance of the division. The geography of the division covers the South East, South West, South Wales, Norfolk and Suffolk.

Mind Retail reserve the right to close the vacancy to applications earlier, should we receive a high volume of strong candidates. Therefore we encourage an early application.

About our benefits

As Head of Operations, you’ll receive:

• A competitive salary of £59,753 per year
• A company car
• A strong commitment to work-life balance with a working pattern that supports this, with the occasional weekend working
• 25 days’ paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays
• Development workshops & courses, to help build your career
• Comprehensive, personalised induction programmes, tailored to your role when you join us
• A huge variety of additional qualifications & development programmes for anyone looking to grow their skills
• Family friendly policies & enhanced pay
• A competitive pension scheme & life assurance, available to all our employees
• 25% staff discount in all Mind shops
• Access to exclusive discounts at over 160 retailers through our employee savings app
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Interest free season ticket loan

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating an income of around £25 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we’re going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve. There’s never been a more exciting time to join us.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

We value the power of diversity. We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We are creating an inclusive working environment where everyone is appreciated for being authentic and bringing their whole selves to work.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working with us to share this commitment. In line with our Safer Recruitment policy, the successful candidate will be required to provide references and will be expected to undertake an enhanced DBS check with a check of the Children's Barred List and/or ‘Work with Adults' workforce check based on their role and responsibilities. A DBS check is a process to check someone's criminal record (if they have any). A Barred List is a list of people who are barred from working with children. To enable you to predetermine what might be disclosed in your DBS check, please use this disclosure calculator.

Mind Retail is an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applicants from all communities. We are committed to the fair treatment of our staff, potential staff and volunteers, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, responsibilities for dependants, age, physical/mental disability or offending background.

This job vacancy is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. 

More details

For more information and a full person specification, please review the job description.

Advocacy Manager

Location – Remote from the UK with regular travel to Manchester and London

Starting Salary - £40,416 per annum (plus contributory pension)

MAG saves lives and builds futures by working with others to reclaim land contaminated with the debris of conflict, to reduce the daily risk of death or injury for civilians, and to create safe and secure conditions for development. MAG shared the 1997 Nobel Peace Prize as a founding member of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines for our work to ban landmines. Our vision is a safe and secure future for men, women and children affected by armed violence and conflict. 

We are looking for an exceptional Advocacy Manager to work within our Policy and Strategic Partnerships team.  This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic international charity that shared the 1997 Nobel Peace-Prize.

You will be working with the Director of Policy and Strategic Partnerships in the development and delivery of MAG’s advocacy work, including leadership of MAG’s UK parliamentary engagement, and contribution to the European and US engagement strategies.

The successful candidate will have previous experience of engaging and influencing UK parliamentarians, including the House of Commons and House of Lords, in support of advocacy objectives through a variety of tactics. You will have up-to-date knowledge of the UK political scene, and key players for MAG’s focus areas, knowledge of UK parliamentary processes and influencing tactics. You will also have a proven track record of meeting targets and deadlines and an ability to build, manage and develop relationships with key stakeholders. Excellent coordination and communication skills will also be essential.

The role will involve travel in the UK and Internationally.

What you can expect in return: 

· Competitive salary 

· 25 days annual leave per year, plus public holidays. 

· Company pension (matching at 5%

· Employee Assistance Programme: MAG offers free access to Health Assured, a service providing 24/7 confidential support and expert advice on a wide range of issues. 

Further information and how to apply:

For the further information on the role, the application pack and details of how to apply, please visit the MAG website by the closing date of 5th May 2025.

Application is by submission of the following documents to humanresources [@] maginternational [.] org by the closing date of 5th May 2025:

1. Up-to-date CV

2. Cover letter, setting out why you believe you are suitable for this position, and how you feel you align to MAG Values.

3. Completed Candidate Profile Form

Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, we cannot respond to every application. If you have not heard back from us within 3 weeks of applying, your application has not been successful.

Please note that as part of MAG's commitment to safeguarding, this post is subject to background checks before an offer of employment is confirmed. For more information on MAG’s approach to safeguarding here and background checks here. You can also find more information in the candidate information pack, available on our website.

MAG is committed to the principles of diversity, equality and inclusion. If you think you would be suited to one of our roles we would welcome your application regardless of your background. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive working environment where all employees feel respected and supported in fulfilling their potential.

Purpose of the Position 

This role is central to driving and expanding our fundraising efforts through the strategic cultivation and stewardship of trusts and foundation relationships. This position is instrumental in identifying and securing sustainable funding sources to support World Bicycle Relief’s mission, ensuring that more people are mobilised through the Power of Bicycles.

This role requires a strong partnership with the UK Managing Director, ensuring that fundraising strategies are robustly executed and aligned with organisational goals.

The ideal candidate will be eager to work with a small, but impactful UK team while collaborating with a dynamic international team of change champions, dedicated to transforming lives through The Power of Bicycle.

About Us 

World Bicycle Relief (WBR) is a global organisation that mobilises people through the Power of Bicycles. We envision a world where distance is no longer a barrier to education, health services, and economic opportunity. A catalyst for change, World Bicycle Relief helps people in need realise their goals by providing a tool that will support them to access education, markets, health facilities and vital services they need to thrive. Equipped with a purpose-designed Buffalo Bicycle from World Bicycle Relief, students, health workers and entrepreneurs in low-income regions create opportunities for themselves, their families and entire communities. 

WBR UK is a registered charity and a subsidiary of World Bicycle Relief NFP (WBR NFP).  WBR NFP operates through WBR not for profit subsidiaries and through its social enterprise company, Buffalo Bicycles.  Together the WBR Group provides transport solutions to those who cannot afford them, with donations through WBR and sales of bicycles and spare parts through Buffalo Bicycle Limited.  Buffalo Bicycle Limited also offers users repair and maintenance services via a retail network of shops and local mechanics. WBR has distributed over 870,000 fit-for-purpose bicycles and trained over 3,350 community-based mechanics. Our impact is clear: girls with Buffalo Bicycles boost their school attendance by almost a third; health care workers see nearly twice as many patients each day and 80% of households using a Buffalo bicycle report higher incomes.

Responsibilities

• Collaborative Strategy Execution: Works closely with the UK Managing Director, incorporating programmatic priorities for developing key funding partnerships, to align and execute the trusts and foundations fundraising strategy.
• Strategic Growth & Income Diversification: Supports the development of and executes a growth strategy to increase trust and foundation income, leveraging both existing and new opportunities, including institutional fundraising and government funding where relevant.
• Prospecting & Pipeline Development: Proactively identifies, researches, and cultivates new trust and foundation prospects to expand the current portfolio and drive significant new revenue growth in alignment with fundraising targets.
• Relationship Management & Stewardship: Establishes, nurtures, and manages strong relationships with trust and foundation donors, ensuring tailored engagement, timely reporting, and strategic alignment with donor priorities to maximize long-term support.
• Proposal & Fund Development: Leads the development and submission of compelling funding proposals to generate revenue, while ensuring collaboration with the global proposal development enablement function for high-value (£100k+) opportunities. Edits concepts, proposals, pitch decks and stewardships materials. 
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Works closely with WBR’s global Development & Marcomm and proposal development team to source insights, data, and programmatic information that strengthen proposals and enhance donor engagement, ensuring UK efforts align with international fundraising strategies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education, Training and Experience Requirements

• A combination of education and experience that yields the required knowledge, skills and abilities
• Advanced knowledge of and proven skills in grant writing 
• Experience securing new income and growing existing income from Trusts and Foundations partnerships.
• Proven skills in relationship management 
• Advanced written and oral communication skills
• Proven customer service skills
• Detail oriented with strong time management
• Ability to work independently and as a team member
• Ability to adapt to the constant change of a fast-growing organization
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
• Ability to maintain integrity, honesty and ethics in all work-related matters
• Advanced knowledge and skills in standard office procedures and software (e.g., Microsoft Office suite, Asana, Google Suite and Salesforce).

Remote Work Location with some UK and International Travel Required

Reporting to: Director of Policy and Engagement 

Direct reports: 1 x Scotland Policy and Public Affairs Manager and Legislative Lead, 2 x Policy and Public Affairs Officers, 1 x England Policy and Public Affairs Manager 

Location of work: Home-based. The post holder must be easily and quickly commutable to London and will require frequent meetings in London. The role may involve some irregular travel throughout England and Scotland to attend events and meetings.

Contract type: Full-time, 35 hours per week,  flexible hours may be considered. The role may require occasional evening and weekend work 

Contract Length: Permanent 

Salary: £54,500 - £56,500 

BACKGROUND

Our work has never been more needed. The latest research suggesting that the number of children and young people at risk of hunger has rocketed to 2.6 million* means that one in five children don't have enough to eat.When a child is too hungry to learn, when they’re aching for something to eat, they can’t concentrate. They can’t absorb information. Big feelings and worries can be impossible to control. They fall behind in their studies.

Magic Breakfast provide a nutritious and filling breakfast to over 300,000 children and young people every school day. We work with schools in areas of high disadvantage, helping staff target the children most in need without barrier or stigma.  Magic Breakfast are ambitious to grow our impact to remove hunger as a barrier to learning for all children and young people in the UK.

 This is an exciting time to join Magic Breakfast if you wish to make a difference to the lives of children as we work to influence both policy implementation, with the national rollout of primary-aged universal school breakfast, and legislative change, through the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill. There has also been commitment from the Scottish Government for a national breakfast scheme and we are seeking to expand our advocacy work into Wales. Magic Breakfast’s influence will be instrumental to ensuring school breakfasts are implemented in a way that is hunger-focused and barrier free.

In addition, thousands of secondary school children are at risk of losing their free school breakfasts from September next year. For many of these students, this is their only opportunity to have a nutritious meal before facing a demanding school day, including taking exams.  And for the very youngest, we know that the disadvantage gap begins before they even reach reception. With the Government commitment to another 100,000 places in school-based nurseries, early years is also a critical part of our advocacy work.

 Being part of the work of Magic Breakfast is your chance, together with parents, teachers and people across the UK, to demonstrate the power of school breakfasts and to shape the way forward to end morning hunger for good.

*Food Foundation Insecurity Tracker Jan 2025

JOB PURPOSE

The Head of Policy & Public Affairs will review, develop and implement our advocacy strategy and lead a team to influence the devolved legislatures across the UK to address child morning hunger, with a view to the underlying systemic causes of child poverty and hunger, by driving change through policy and legislation. The role operates at our ‘Head of level’ which is the most senior operational specialist level and provides both operational and strategic leadership.

This role will also provide wider leadership across the charity and input into organisational strategy development and planning as part of the Core Management Group. This role will ensure that the Policy and Public Affairs function is aligned to the wider strategic aims and outcomes of Magic Breakfast as well as the internal operational systems and delivery.

The strategic leadership will ensure an external and long term view, with an outward looking and forward thinking approach that builds thought leadership, relationships and partnerships, with positioning to anticipate and build on new opportunities to end child morning hunger for good.

It will require an experienced Policy and Public Affairs professional, with significant experience of high impact and demonstrable outcomes at a senior level in the field. The postholder will lead the policy and public affairs team to influence the Early Adopters Scheme, the national rollout of primary school breakfast provision in England and breakfast legislation in the Children’s Wellbeing Bill (CWB).

They will also develop, guide and lead plans to influence the Scottish government, particularly in the run up to the election in May 2026 and the influencing of manifestos; and will lead Magic Breakfast’s upcoming influencing work in Wales. 

In the external leadership that the role provides they will build relationships with politicians, political influencers, special advisors and civil servants to establish long-term, sustainable solutions to child morning hunger in the UK.

As a compassionate, people centric and inspiring leader they will work to enable their team to grow and develop in their skills ensuring they can step away from the detail whilst retaining accountability, build effective resource management and progression pathways. This role may manage external consultants where necessary, and work collaboratively with external organisations to amplify our voice and asks and strengthen our position as a thought leader. 

 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

· Review and define the advocacy strategy for 25/26 in line both with moving political environment and Magic Breakfast’s influencing agenda, considering the systemic barriers to ending child morning hunger for good.

· Develop and maintain close relationships with the Department for Education and other key departments including Department for Health and Social Care and Treasury, to secure hunger and child focus as key priorities for breakfast provision.

· Develop, monitor and evaluate influencing plans for each devolved nation

· Support the development of influencing plans with coalition groups and organisations to influence school breakfast policy, commitments and implementation

· Review policy positions in Wales and Northern Ireland and define our advocacy approach, gaining external insights and analysing available research and data to shape the plan

· Develop a vision for advocacy beyond current demands, considering political appetite and gaining insight from lived experience communities and relevant sectors, to ensure that we are clear on future asks, and can build the foundation towards them.

· Work with Impact and Insights team to define future research needs to meet our longer-term advocacy plans

· Enhance and establish internal processes and ensure good internal information dissemination 

· Work closely with key internal stakeholders to shape advocacy work and support broader organisational objectives

· Embed learnings and develop a fail fast, learn fast culture in the team

· Coach, support and lead direct reports enabling increased professional development, strategic decision making, proactive project management and robust political influencing

· Contribute to and help shape the work of the Core Management Group to ensure ongoing alignment for in year implementation of the strategic plan and create integrated future year plans which meet organisational goals

· Monitor and review KPIs to monitor and measure both team and cross organisational performance, using the results to guide teams and surface learnings

· Assess areas of risk and escalate where necessary and according to policy

· Develop and monitor annual team budgets

General

• Work collaboratively across the organisation, building good working relations and providing ad-hoc support to other teams and members of staff

• Passion and commitment to Magic Breakfast’s aim of alleviating morning hunger as a barrier to learning for children in the UK.

• Help to maintain a positive working environment; keeping the vision of Magic Breakfast at the heart of everything we do. 

• Share Magic Breakfast’s commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion

• Establish and ensure existing Ways of Working are adhered to across team

• Adhere to all Magic Breakfast policies and procedures and ensure that all activity is compliant with current legislation, GDPR, data protection and child safeguarding requirements

• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the role

 PERSON SPECIFICATION

Knowledge and Experience

Essential

· Strategy development, demonstrating a deep understanding of how to craft, implement, and evolve strategies that align to operational outcomes for the Policy and Advocacy function as well as enabling our organisation strategy in our aim to end child morning for good.

· Stakeholder management and partnership building with extensive experience of engaging, influencing, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including senior political figures, policymakers, funders and sector leaders.

· Ability to confidently and flexibly deal with volatile political environment, anticipating potential developments and adapting to emerging situations to meet aims

· Highly experienced in developing and shaping policy positions, using insights, research and data sets to inform and guide decision-making

· Understanding and experience of the role of the broader external environment to shape policy asks and political influencing, including the implications of a policy ask in one sector on another.

· Experience of influencing key political events such as budgets, national elections and the legislative process.

· Significant experience of coaching, supporting and managing the development of a team, with the ability to make difficult decisions and challenge where needed to deliver the organisational strategy.

Desirable

· Experience of education, food insecurity, child poverty or childcare sectors

Skills and Abilities

• Effective leadership mentality with confidence to step away from the detail and delegate responsibility, enabling others to use judgements, make decisions, learn from failures and continuously improve.

• Analytical and evidence based decision making, with the ability to turn data and analysis into policy and advocacy related recommendations or outcomes for action.

• Effective planning, prioritisation and project management skills. Able to organise self and team to meet planned objectives and strategic direction with the ability to pivot and manage the unexpected.

• Strong, influential and impactful interpersonal and communication skills and to advocate for own specialism, department and Magic Breakfast's mission, effectively conveying the organisation's impact and needs to a wide range of audiences.

• Operational and financial acumen and analysis: understanding and practical application of knowledge as required around funding considerations, budget development and management, risk management, and ensuring systems in place for efficiency by setting and maintaining policy and procedural frameworks.

• An outward looking and forward thinking approach that drives a sense of curiosity, innovation and continuous improvement. Always thinking what can we learn from others, what new developments can be explored and what are the opportunities for the function to improve and grow with others too.

WHAT WE OFFER

At Magic Breakfast we value our employees and work hard to develop offer a supportive, respectful culture which enables everyone to bring their whole self to work.

Please find attached our job pack

APPLICATION PROCCESS

Should you wish to discuss the role before applying please email our People and Culture Team, recruitment @ magicbreakfast. com

Shortlisting - w/c 5th May

Interview 1 - 15th and 16th May

Interview 2 - w/c 21st May

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications are received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.

Research Associate - National Youth Agency

Contract: 12-month Fixed Term Contract (with potential to extend)
Hours: Full-time - 37 hours per week 
Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 per annum, dependent on experience
Remote: This role is 100% homebased with occasional travel for staff residentials and other events.

What we do

As the national body for youth work, the NYA has a dual function. We are the professional statutory and regulatory body (PSRB) responsible for qualifications, quality standards, and safeguarding for youth work and services in England. In line with our charity mission and aims, we also champion youth work through research, advocacy, campaigns, and programmes.

We work in partnership and believe in collaborative leadership, listening to youth workers and the youth work sector so that we can understand their needs and respond to the challenges they face. We are ambitious for youth work and for young people and integrate youth voice and influence across our work

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join our Knowledge Team, working alongside two existing Research Associates and a Data Analyst. 

You will be integral in delivering research, data, and insights that support organisational development and programme delivery across NYA.

We are looking for an experienced mixed-methods researcher with a strong understanding of social research and evaluation approaches. Ideally, you will have experience working in or alongside the youth sector and be confident using both qualitative and quantitative methods.

You’ll need to be flexible, proactive, and a strong communicator, able to explain complex ideas to varied audiences. 

This role is ideal for someone looking to make a tangible difference through evidence-led approaches that shape policy, practice, and impact in youth work.

Key responsibilities for this role will include:

• Designing and delivering research projects using a range of methods including surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
• Supporting the development of the NYA research and data hub, including external research collation and data visualisation.
• Leading on evaluations to meet funder requirements and contribute to NYA’s growing evidence base.
• Analysing data from NYA programmes to support impact measurement.
• Promoting evidence-based practice across NYA and the wider youth sector.
• Communicating findings clearly through reports, briefings, and presentations.
• Managing research projects and collaborating with internal and external partners to deliver on time and to quality.
• Responding to internal and external research enquiries.

The ideal candidate will have experience in social research, familiarity with various research methodologies, and the ability to communicate complex findings to diverse audiences. 

Please refer to our Candidate Pack for more information on the role and the requirements.

Why Work for NYA?

NYA operates as a people-first organisation, prioritising the well-being and needs of its employees.

NYA offers an exceptional flexible working approach which encourages our team to balance professional responsibilities with their personal life.

A remote based team, spread across England, fostering inclusivity and diverse talent. Despite geographical distances between team members, NYA maintains a highly motivated and connected team through the optimisation of digital tools.

NYA is committed to supporting the continual personal and professional development of our team and helping them achieve their ambitions.

We provide 25 days leave plus 8 days, life assurance scheme, 5% employer pension contribution and a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme via Spectrum.life with unlimited specialist support available to all NYA employees.

How to Apply:

Please download our applicant pack to find out more about the role and requirements

To apply, please submit the following via our online application platform by 11:59pm on Monday 12th May 2025:

A detailed CV setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements in line with the person specification in the About You section. 

A covering letter (maximum two sides) highlighting your suitability for the role and how you meet the requirements in the

About You section. 

We will request data for our EEDI monitoring purposes, providing this is optional.

Please note: the covering letter is an essential part of the application process and will be assessed as part of your full application. We use AI detector software, so cover letters or CV’s with over 30% AI generated content with be disregarded. We understand that AI tools can offer support to candidates who have learning differences, which is why we will accept applications with some AI assistance. CV’s will not be accepted without a cover letter.

The National Youth Agency is an equal opportunities employer. 

At NYA our inclusive culture means that we embrace individual differences and understand that we need a diverse team to achieve our organisations mission. 

We wish to recruit candidates from all backgrounds to ensure our team reflects the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We encourage applications from anyone regardless of disability, ethnicity, heritage, gender, sexuality, religion, socio-economic background and political beliefs but we particularly welcome applications from global majority candidates and those from other minoritised ethnic groups in the UK as they are currently underrepresented in our team.

Youth Work changes lives

Which is why we’re committed to ensuring that as many young people as possible get to benefit from it. As the national body for youth work in England, the National Youth Agency (NYA) exists to champion its transformative power.  We believe all young people should have the opportunity to benefit from the life-changing impact of extraordinary youth workers and trained volunteers.

We help to grow youth work provision in ways that keep it effective, relevant, safe and engaging, to help millions of young people reach their potential and thrive. We do this by providing guidance, support, advice, training and staff development opportunities for youth workers and youth work organisations. At the heart of everything we do are young people themselves. We work hard to ensure their voices are integrated into all our work, to develop provision that truly meets their needs.

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