Charity director jobs

A fantastic opportunity to help shape the future of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity's brand at a pivotal moment.

About us 

The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity exists to improve the lives of people affected by cancer—at The Royal Marsden and far beyond.

We fund world-leading research, cutting-edge equipment, and groundbreaking treatment that helps transform care for cancer patients in the UK and across the world. By supporting one of the world’s leading cancer centres, we play a vital role in developing new treatments and improving outcomes for patients everywhere.

Following a period of significant growth, we are now entering an exciting new phase—expanding our impact, strengthening supporter relationships, and investing in the future of cancer care. 

About the role 

You'll play a key role in the development and implementation of our upcoming brand refresh to drive awareness of our work on a national scale, raising vital funds to improve the lives of thousands of people with cancer across the UK and globally.

Leading a small creative team, you'll combine strategic thinking with hands-on creative expertise to produce exceptional design, video and visual storytelling that brings our mission to life. The role sits within a larger Creative team that works across the Charity, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust and Private Care.

What you'll do

• Lead the creative development, design and production of high-quality, impactful marketing and communications materials across print, digital, photography and video channels for the Charity
• Be an active and influential member of the core Brand Refresh project group, delivering the project to time and budget, strengthening brand awareness, consistency and impact.
• Collaborate with colleagues across Fundraising, Marketing and Digital teams to produce effective marketing and communications which meet audience objectives, interpreting briefs and deliver creative solutions that achieve campaign objectives.
• Lead creative concepts from initial brief through to final delivery, presenting ideas confidently to stakeholders and translating feedback into exceptional outputs. Develop efficient creative briefing and workflow processes that support excellent project delivery.
• Run weekly design clinics to review all business as usual design and video outputs.
• Manage and develop the creative team, including the Designer and Video Producer, providing leadership, coaching and support.

About you

We're looking for a creative leader who combines outstanding design expertise with strong project management and people skills.

You'll bring:

• Significant experience developing and delivering high-quality creative campaigns and marketing communications.
• Experience leading creative projects from concept through to implementation and review.
• Proven experience managing and developing people.
• Strong strategic brand and design experience, with a keen eye for visual storytelling and brand consistency.
• Excellent knowledge of digital design, accessibility and print production.
• Experience using Adobe Creative Suite, including InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop.
• An understanding of video production, with the ability to guide and support video-based projects.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the confidence to influence and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.

Why join us?

This is a unique opportunity to help shape the creative direction of one of the UK's leading cancer charities during a period of ambitious growth and transformation.

You'll join a collaborative, supportive and talented team where your ideas and expertise will have a direct impact on fundraising success and, ultimately, patient outcomes.

We offer:

• The opportunity to contribute to pioneering cancer research and care.
• A creative, ambitious and values-driven culture.
• The chance to play a leading role in a major Charity brand refresh.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Annual leave increasing with service.
• Generous pension scheme with up to 6% employer contributions.
• Life insurance.
• Enhanced maternity and adoption pay.
• Employee assistance programme.

Inclusion matters

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences.  

Apply now

If you're an experienced creative professional looking to use your skills to make a meaningful difference to the lives of people affected by cancer, we'd love to hear from you.

Membership and Education Administrator

CONTRACT: Permanent, Part Time (28 hours per week)

ORGANISATION: Royal Life Saving Society UK

DEPARTMENT: Membership and Education Directorate

LOCATION: RLSS UK Headquarters (Redhill House, 227 London Road, Worcester, WR5 2JG)

REPORTS TO: Director of Membership and Education

SALARY: £23,132.20 (Grade H) *Pro-rata for 28 hours per week, £18,505.76 per annum

KEY TASKS, ROLES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide administrative support to the Director of Membership and Education and the wider department
• Coordinate meetings, including scheduling, agendas and tracking actions
• Manage multiple shared inboxes, ensuring queries are handled promptly and professionally
• Collate data, insights and information as required for reports and updates
• Coordinate travel and accommodation bookings for the Membership and Education team and volunteers
• Support the planning and delivery of RLSS UK events, campaigns and initiatives
• Assist with procurement of goods and services, liaising with suppliers and the Finance team
• Support membership administration, including managing enquiries, payments and record-keeping
• Assist with the delivery of communications to members and volunteers
• Contribute to providing a high-quality service to members and volunteers
• Produce notes from meetings including the various Working Groups, attending in person as required
  
  
   

General

• Ensure compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 by complying with internal information governance policies and maintaining up to date documentation as part of RLSS’s compliance programme.
• Demonstrate and uphold RLSS UK values and behavioural standards
• Proactively participate in the Society’s equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives and training, and to promote a culture of respect and inclusion for all staff and customers
• Contribute to the successful operation of the charity by undertaking such other tasks as may from time to time be required including all other duties reasonably associated with your role, as directed by the Line Manager

This job description should not be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended to outline the areas of activity and responsibility associated with the role only. It may be changed to reflect the changing needs of the organisation.

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage conflicting priorities and maintain a high level of attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proactive and positive team player with a flexible, can-do attitude
• Evidence of continuous professional development
• Proficient in CRM systems and Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to use initiative and work independently when required
• Ability to be flexible with regards to your hours, and willingness to work occasional evening and/or weekends to support the needs of the role
   

Desirable Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Experience of working with and supporting volunteers and/or members
• Experience in a customer facing role
• Experience of supporting events or projects
• Knowledge and understanding of RLSS UK and its activities

YOUR APPLICATION
Please send your CV and a short Cover Letter outlining your suitability for the post

Closing Date – 5pm, Friday 24 July 2026

Interview Date – Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 August 2026 at our Worcester Head Office (subject to change)

WHAT RLSS UK CAN OFFER YOU

• Annual Leave based on 27 days + Bank Holidays + a discretionary day off for your birthday
• Private Healthcare Plan*
• Enhanced Society Sick Pay*
• Eye Care*
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme*
• Discounts available including high street brands, entertainment, eating out and more
• Free RLSS UK Membership
• Free tea and coffee when working from HQ, including access to our wonderful Coffee Machine
• Free on-site parking when working from HQ
• Company events and socials

*Subject to eligibility criteria

Should you wish to discuss the role, any adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment process, or have any questions, please get in touch where a member of the RLSS UK HR Department will be happy to help.

RLSS UK are a Disability Confident Committed Employer and an INclusive Worcestershire Leader.

About the role

Cardiomyopathy UK's Director of Research and External Affairs leads the charity's research, policy and advocacy, and communications and marketing functions, with a team of four staff. The post-holder sets the strategic direction of the directorate, drives high-quality delivery,  upholds the charity's values, and represents the charity externally. The Director is a member of the charity's Leadership Team, working closely with the CEO to steer the charity forward. 

For the right person, this is an opportunity with real strategic scope. We want to build on our strong policy positions and evidence base and translate them into more proactive campaigning and influencing, moving from good policy thinking to concerted public affairs activity, strategic stakeholder engagement, and campaigns that achieve real change. 

The Director will also lead the next phase of our research work, following our inaugural research grant-funding activity and James Lind Alliance top ten work. They will work with the Research Manager and our clinical and academic partners to better define and deliver our ambitions.

Raising awareness of cardiomyopathy, its signs, symptoms and genetic risk, is also within the team's scope. Too many people are still diagnosed late because neither they nor their GP knew what to look for. The Director will drive our communications and marketing agenda purposefully, equally ensuring the charity’s external profile is actively managed and enhanced.

About you

We're looking for a leader who is a collaborative and inclusive, able to build trust with staff, colleagues, external partners and the Board. They will have strong strategic, analytical and planning skills, with the ability to develop coherent strategies. They will have experience as a senior leader/ manager in a charity, health, research or patient-focused organisation. See the Person Specification for further details.
 
Why join us?

Cardiomyopathy UK is the national charity for people affected by cardiomyopathy. We provide specialist nurse support, peer support, wellbeing services and trusted information to thousands of people each year, as well as influencing policy, supporting advocacy, and funding and enabling better research.

We are ambitious about our future. We are committed to quality, accountability and continuous improvement. Most importantly, we are committed to ensuring that everyone affected by cardiomyopathy can live well with the condition.

We are a family friendly employer with flexible and hybrid working. We offer an enhanced Employee Assistance Programme, additional annual leave linked to length of service, and an extra special occasion day each year.

We are midway through our five-year strategic plan, at a genuinely exciting moment, both for the charity and for cardiomyopathy more broadly. If you are excited by the opportunity to shape our Research and External Affairs work, lead a strong team and ensure we can clearly demonstrate the impact of our work, we would love to hear from you.

Community & Corporate Fundraiser – Wales (Dolfor)

Full-time 37.5 hours a week. (flexible/part-time requests will be considered)

Salary £38,000.00 -£42, 000.00 pa

Hybrid role- 3 days in office and 2 home working

This role will lead fundraising across Wales and into the Midlands, building relationships with communities, businesses and supporters to grow income and raise awareness of our work. 

You’ll develop and manage a mix of community and corporate fundraising activity, working closely with colleagues across the organisation and using our Wales site to engage and inspire supporters. 

A big part of the role is building strong, long-term relationships that support sustainable fundraising and help extend the reach of our services.

About you:

• Experience in fundraising, partnerships or a similar relationship-based role
• Confident building and managing external relationships
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Organised and able to manage multiple priorities
• A proactive, self-motivated approach

This is a varied role with real scope to grow fundraising across Wales and make a direct impact on the children and families we support.

For over 30 years, RASASC has provided specialist, trauma-informed support to survivors of rape, sexual violence and childhood sexual abuse across Cheshire and Merseyside. 

As Managing Director, you will provide strategic and operational leadership, working closely with our Board of Trustees, staff team, funders, commissioners and partners to ensure RASASC continues to deliver high-quality, survivor-centred services while building a sustainable future.

The opportunity:

• Shape and deliver RASASC’s strategy, growth plans and future direction
• Lead and inspire a committed team, creating a culture of excellence, collaboration and learning
• Ensure strong governance, financial sustainability and organisational resilience
• Develop relationships with funders, commissioners, partners and stakeholders
• Champion survivor voices and influence the wider sexual violence support sector
• Drive innovation, service improvement and long-term impact

We are looking for an experienced senior leader who can demonstrate:

• Strategic leadership experience within the charity, public, voluntary or social purpose sector
• A strong track record of managing budgets, resources and organisational performance
• Experience working with Boards, Trustees or Non-Executive Directors
• Success in securing funding through grants, contracts, tenders or partnerships
• The ability to lead people, manage change and build effective relationships
• A commitment to equality, inclusion, safeguarding and survivor-centred practice

This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected organisation with a powerful mission — ensuring survivors of sexual violence receive the support, advocacy and voice they deserve.If you are an ambitious, compassionate and strategic leader who wants to create lasting change, we would love to hear from you.

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will help shape the strategic direction and future growth of TCVS, working closely with the Chief Executive, Board of Trustees and senior colleagues to deliver our organisational ambitions.

You will:

• Provide strategic leadership across all corporate services, including HR, Finance, IT, Facilities, Health & Safety, Compliance, Administration and Organisational Systems.
• Ensure operational systems, policies and processes are efficient, compliant, scalable and support organisational excellence.
• Lead organisational development, workforce planning and continuous improvement, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and values-led culture.
• Oversee governance, risk management, business continuity and regulatory compliance, supporting the Board to deliver effective governance.
• Monitor organisational performance, ensuring delivery against strategic priorities and organisational objectives.
• Drive digital transformation and innovation, embedding technology and systems that improve efficiency, data quality and organisational learning.
• Support the long-term financial sustainability of TCVS by developing earned income opportunities, partnerships and trading activities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with trustees, partners, funders, tenants and key stakeholders, representing TCVS across Thurrock and South West Essex.
• Contribute to organisational resilience, growth and future expansion through effective leadership, planning and decision-making.
• Deputise for the Chief Executive as required and provide leadership across the organisation.

You will also champion equality, diversity and inclusion, promote staff wellbeing and professional development, participate in the on-call rota, and undertake other responsibilities appropriate to this senior leadership role.

Are you an inspiring senior fundraising leader who wants to use their skills to help people experience the best possible quality of life, to the end of life?

As the new Head of Fundraising at St Catherine's Hospice, you'll enjoy the best of both worlds: leading and developing a growing team towards high performance, while remaining hands-on in building and nurturing high-value donor relationships.

Salary: £44,341 per annum
Contract: Full Time | 37.5 hours per week
Location: Preston, with hybrid option with up to 2 days homeworking
Benefits: Enjoy 36 days' holiday (including bank holidays), an extra wellbeing day for your birthday, up to 8% employer pension contributions, Blue Light Card discounts, discounted on-site meals, career development opportunities, life insurance, and an employee assistance programme.

Culture: Join a supportive and collaborative team, all located within a scenic working environment.

The Role:

Reporting to the Director of Marketing and Engagement, you will lead, develop and inspire a dedicated fundraising team, creating a high-performance culture that delivers ambitious income targets across a diverse portfolio.

This is a strategic and hands-on leadership role. You will be responsible for developing and delivering the hospice's fundraising strategy, identifying new opportunities for growth, and personally supporting key relationships and fundraising initiatives. You will work closely with senior colleagues, trustees and external stakeholders, providing regular updates and reports to the Board on fundraising performance, opportunities and risks.

About You:

We are seeking a confident and experienced fundraising professional who combines strategic thinking with a practical, hands-on approach. You will be an inspirational leader with a proven ability to deliver income growth, develop high-performing teams and build strong relationships with supporters, partners and senior stakeholders.

You will be comfortable operating both strategically and operationally, with the credibility and communication skills to influence at Board level and represent the hospice externally.

Your Experience

• Significant senior fundraising experience across multiple income streams, with a strong track record of delivering sustainable income growth
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing fundraising teams, building a positive and ambitious culture
• Demonstrable success in designing and delivering fundraising strategies that achieve measurable results and long-term financial sustainability
• Strong commercial and financial acumen, including budgeting, income forecasting, performance management, and driving return on investment across fundraising activity
• Ability to build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships, alongside developing compelling cases for support, funding applications, and donor propositions that inspire giving and generate income
• Experience of planning and delivering successful fundraising events, with responsibility for volunteer management and awareness of relevant health and safety requirements

Why Join St Catherine's Hospice?

St Catherine's cares for patients and their loved ones across Chorley, Preston and South Ribble who are affected by life-shortening conditions such as cancer, motor neurone disease and heart failure. Through specialist palliative and end-of-life care, delivered both at the hospice and in people's own homes, the organisation helps individuals achieve the best possible quality of life and focus on what matters most to them in the time they have.

A values-led organisation, with care, compassion and commitment at the heart of everything it does, St Catherine's is deeply valued by its local community. This role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact by leading a talented fundraising team, influencing strategic decision-making and securing the resources needed to ensure exceptional hospice care remains available for those who need it most.

How to Apply

To find out more or to apply, please contact Ellen Drummond at Charity People with your CV or professional profile. If your experience aligns with what we're looking for, we'll be in touch with further information.

Application Deadline: 1^st July 9am

First Stage Interviews: 16^th/17^th July

Second Stage Interview: In person, w/c 22^nd July

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

Reports to: Chief Operating Officer 

Contract: Full-time 
Location: Remote, with at least one all staff in-person meet up annually in the UK 
Salary: £70,000 - £90,000 per annum 
Benefits: 40 days holiday + 2 activism days + 1 duvet day 

Why this role matters 

At HOST, we believe that anyone, anywhere, should be able to drive transformative climate and social action - without being held back by operational barriers, financial risk or hostile environments. We host the world’s changemakers so they can focus on delivering the impact only they can create. 

The Finance Director plays a critical role in ensuring HOST’s financial management is robust, compliant, transparent and scalable across both our internal operations and our project hosting services. This role brings financial leadership to the organisation, supporting strong decision-making, reliable reporting, effective controls and continuous improvement across our finance function. 

The role sits within HOST’s senior leadership and works closely with colleagues across the Delivery, Partnerships, Legal and Engagement circles, as well as the Board, to ensure we can deliver high-quality support to partners while managing risk and using resources well. 

The role in a nutshell 

The Finance Director leads the Finance Team and is responsible for HOST’s financial management, ensuring strong compliance with policies, procedures and regulatory requirements.

The Finance Director is part of the HOST Leadership Team and would have line management responsibility for three Finance Managers within the Finance team. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Oversee HOST’s financial management, ensuring compliance with policies, procedures and relevant regulatory requirements. 

• Develop and monitor budgets for both HOST operations and hosted projects. 

• Provide regular financial reporting to the Leadership Team and Board. 

• Lead efforts to improve financial systems, controls and workflows. 

• Ensure robust financial oversight of hosted projects and HOST’s internal systems. 

• Contribute as an integral member of the Leadership Team, bringing financial insight to strategic and operational decision-making. 

• Manage cashflow strategy, including multi-currency considerations. 

• Oversee delivery of monthly management accounts. 

• Develop and report on profitability across HOST’s range of services and offerings. 

• Support HOST’s strategic direction by working with the Leadership Team on KPIs and organisational dashboards. 

• Ensure effective, timely and efficient delivery of the following by the finance function: 

• Records of income and expenditure, including grants, donations, receivables, consultancy receipts and invoices. 

• Transparent and accurate financial data in finance systems and other interconnected databases. 

• Regular weekly reconciliation of transactions, including oversight of bills to pay, bank statements and payment service providers for HOST. 

• Month-end reporting, including management reports and accounts such as income and expenditure statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements and KPIs. 

• Restricted donor financial reports, ensuring alignment with accounting records and donor compliance requirements. 

• Payroll services for HOST and hosted projects. 

• Accounting reports for new services. 

• VAT preparation and submission. 

• Records of income and expenditure are maintained: grants, donations, receivables, and consultancy receipts, invoices 

• Transparent and accurate financial data in Xero and other interconnected databases 

• Regular weekly reconciliation of transactions in Xero, including oversight of bills to pay, bank statements, and payment service providers for HOST 

• Month-end reporting process by preparing management reports and accounts, such as income/expenditure statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and KPIs 

• Restricted donor financial reports, ensuring alignment with accounting records and donor compliance 

• Payroll service for HOST and hosted projects 

• Accounting reports for new services 

• Managing VAT preparation and submission 

Knowledge and Experience 

• Proven experience as an SME finance leader 

• Qualified accountant: ACA, ACCA or CIMA. 

• Experience implementing financial controls and processes. 

• Multi-currency cashflow and treasury management experience. 

• Experience setting budgets and forecasts. 

• Internal audit experience. 

• Ability to work under pressure and deliver projects to tight deadlines. 

• Minimum 5 years’ people management experience. 

• Excellent knowledge of cloud-based working. 

• Knowledge and experience using Sage or other similar accounting systems 

• Knowledge and experience of other relevant software applications, such as Excel, Teams, ClickUp etc. 

• ESG or sustainable finance experience. 

• Software implementation experience. 

Key Competencies 

• Strategic thinking 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills 

• Attention to detail 

• Planning and organising 

• Time management 

• Interpersonal skills 

• Initiative 

• Confidentiality

• Reliability 

• Leadership of staff

Essential Abilities 

• Ability to confidently discuss financial narratives with senior leaders and Board members. 

• Ability to prioritise and organise own workload and time to meet priorities and deadlines. 

• Ability to identify problems and develop practical solutions to work-related issues. 

• Able to communicate confidently and effectively with a wide range of people, including handling queries in a tactful and confidential manner. 

• Strong stakeholder management skills and ability to business partner effectively with non-finance colleagues. 

• Good organisation and administrative skills. 

• Able to work effectively as part of a team. 

• Ability to undertake a range of financial functions. 

What success in this role looks like 

• Finance systems, reporting and controls are robust, reliable and audit ready. 

• Leadership Team and Board decisions are informed by clear, timely and useful financial insight. 

• Hosted partners receive accurate, consistent and responsive financial support. 

• The finance function continues to improve workflows, systems and reporting as HOST grows. 

At HOST, we believe change starts with people who care. 

If you’re passionate about building strong financial systems that help changemakers thrive - and want to play a key leadership role in supporting climate and social change around the world - we’d love to hear from you. 

Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity
Location: Sheffield
Reporting to: Director of Fundraising

Salary: £45,721.96 to £60,963.64 per annum

Hours and basis: Full Time 37.5 hours per week / Permanent position

Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity is looking for an ambitious and inspiring fundraising leader to join us as Head of Philanthropy, Trusts & Foundations. This is a unique opportunity to shape and drive high-value fundraising strategies that directly transform the lives of children and families.

About the role

In this pivotal leadership role, you will lead and grow our philanthropy and trusts income streams, developing and delivering a long-term strategy that drives sustainable income growth and meaningful impact.

You’ll work closely with senior leaders, clinicians and colleagues across the Charity and NHS Trust to bring compelling, high-impact projects to life, engaging new supporters and strengthening relationships with our existing donors.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a strategic plan for philanthropy, trusts and foundations fundraising
• Secure significant gifts and long-term partnerships from major donors and funders
• Personally manage a portfolio of high-value prospects and supporters
• Build and maintain a strong pipeline of funding opportunities
• Oversee compelling cases for support, proposals and grant applications
• Lead, coach and develop a high-performing fundraising team
• Work collaboratively across the organisation to identify impactful funding opportunities

About you

We’re looking for a collaborative and driven fundraising professional with a proven track record in securing high-value gifts (ideally six-figure+).

You will bring:

• Strong experience in major donor and trust fundraising
• Exceptional relationship-building and influencing skills
• Strategic thinking and a results-driven approach
• Experience leading and motivating high-performing teams
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling funding propositions
• A proactive, creative mindset with strong organisational and analytical skills

For further details please read the full job description which outlines behaviours and qualities we are looking for along with skills and experience.

Why join us?

At Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity, you’ll be part of a passionate, ambitious team committed to making a real difference. You’ll have the opportunity to work on inspiring projects, build meaningful relationships, and shape the future of philanthropy which supports the Sheffield Children’s Hospital to enable healthier futures for children and young people.

Ready to make an impact?

Apply today with your CV and a covering letter.

Initial closing date: Wednesday 1st July 2026 - 9am

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we regret that we are unable to respond to all applicants. If you are shortlisted for interview, we will contact you directly. We thank you for your interest in joining Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.

Agencies: We are not accepting unsolicited agency contact or applications for this role. Any CVs submitted by agencies without prior agreement will not be considered.

Contract: Full-time, permanent
Hours: Full-time
Reports to: Chair; Board of Directors 
Location: Hackney
Salary: £50,000-60,000 depending on experience.
Pension: HSoF participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, free onsite lunches .
Probation period: Six months.

About Hackney School of Food

Hackney School of Food is an award-winning food education hub based in the grounds of Mandeville Primary School in Clapton, East London. Through our teaching kitchen and educational garden, we help children, families and communities build the skills, confidence and knowledge to grow, cook and eat good food.

Each year, we welcome more than 10,000 visits to our kitchen and garden, delivering curriculum programmes for schools alongside community cooking courses, gardening projects, holiday clubs, corporate volunteering and public events. Since becoming a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2023, we have expanded our facilities, strengthened our governance and built a strong reputation as a leader in food education.

We're now looking for an exceptional Managing Director to build on these strong foundations and lead Hackney School of Food through its next phase of growth and impact.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Managing Director (MD) will provide both strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the organisation delivers its mission while remaining financially resilient, well-governed and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.

The Managing Director is responsible for all aspects of the organisation, including strategy, income generation, finance, governance, partnerships, programme delivery and people leadership. Working closely with a small, committed team and an engaged Board, they will build on strong foundations to grow Hackney School of Food's impact, reach and long-term sustainability.

This is a varied, hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys balancing big-picture thinking with practical delivery. One day you may be developing a new partnership, meeting a prospective funder or working with the Board on future strategy; the next you could be supporting the team, welcoming visitors to the garden or solving day-to-day operational challenges.

Key priorities

In your first 12 months you will:

• Build on Hackney School of Food's strong foundations to deliver the next phase of our strategy and growth.

• Increase and diversify income through fundraising, partnerships and commercial opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability.

• Lead, support and develop a small, ambitious team, fostering a positive and inclusive culture where people can thrive.

• Strengthen relationships with funders, partners and local businesses, helping Hackney School of Food deepen its impact.

• Work closely with the Board to embed strong governance, organisational systems and long-term planning for the future.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership 

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for Hackney School of Food, ensuring delivery of its mission, vision and long-term objectives. 

• Lead the development and implementation of Hackney School of Food's annual business plan and organisational priorities.

• Work with the Board to evolve organisational strategy, identify opportunities, manage risks and support sustainable growth.

• Monitor, report on and respond to organisational performance against agreed objectives and impact measures. 

• Champion Hackney School of Food externally, strengthening its profile and influence.
   

Financial sustainability and income generation 

• Oversee organisational budgeting, financial planning, forecasting and cashflow management, working closely with the Treasurer and accountant.

• Lead income generation across the organisation, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, sponsorship and earned income.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, sponsors and strategic partners.

• Ensure all funding commitments are met, including grant reporting, monitoring and evaluation requirements.

• Identify new opportunities to diversify income and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

Partnerships & External Relations

• Act as the main point of contact for HSoF’s key partners, LEAP Federation and Chefs in Schools to ensure the partnerships are effective and positive.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with other key stakeholders, including local authorities, funders and sponsors.

• Represent Hackney School of Food at meetings, events, and public forums.

• Champion the value of food education and contribute to wider local and national conversations. 

• Ensure programmes remain responsive to community needs through ongoing engagement and consultation. 

Governance and public benefit 

• Ensure the organisation operates in line with its CIC objectives and delivers clear public benefit. 

• Support the Board of Directors to fulfil its governance responsibilities through high-quality reporting, planning and decision-making.

• Prepare Board papers, reports and agendas, ensuring timely and accurate information is available to support effective governance.

• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Directors quarterly.

• Act as the primary link between the Board and the operational team.

• Maintain effective governance, delegated authority and accountability frameworks. 

• Support the Board in meeting all statutory and regulatory obligations relating to the CIC.

People, Culture and safeguarding

• Provide leadership to a small core team (currently c.4 employees), directly managing staff and fostering a positive, inclusive culture. 

• Provide oversight and support for a wider network of approx. 15 freelance contractors to ensure consistently high-quality delivery.

• Lead recruitment, induction, performance management and professional development in line with safer recruitment and equality principles. 

• Ensure effective organisational structures, clear roles, and performance accountability.

• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.

• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, embedding safeguarding throughout the organisation maintaining compliance with all relevant requirements. 

• Develop organisational systems, policies and practices that support an inclusive, high-performing workplace.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.

• Oversee organisational policies, procedures and continuous improvement, ensuring policies and legal requirements are up to date, clearly communicated and embedded across the organisation. 

• Ensure compliance with employment law, health and safety, safeguarding, GDPR and other relevant legislation. 

Personal specification

Essential experience 

• Senior leadership experience with responsibility for organisational performance and accountability. 

• Experience securing income through fundraising, partnerships and/or commercial activity.

• Experience of financial leadership, including budget setting, forecasting and cashflow oversight.

• Experience working closely with a Board, Trustees or governing body to translate strategic vision into operational delivery. 

• Experience building and managing successful partnerships with funders, businesses and community stakeholders. 

• Experience in managing and motivating a team, creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture. 

• Experience of governance, compliance and organisational risk management.

• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth or community context.

• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, make sound decisions and remain resilient in a resource-constrained environment.

Essential skills and attributes

• Passion for Hackney School of Food's mission and the role of food education in improving health, wellbeing and community connection. 

• Strategic thinker who is equally comfortable with hands-on operational leadership. 

• Entrepreneurial, resourceful and committed to building long-term financial sustainability and identifying growth opportunities.

• Ability to lead a team through change with sensitivity, clarity and kindness.

• Strong communicator with excellent relationship-building skills. 

• Confident decision-maker with a high level of personal accountability. 

• Committed to equity, inclusion and community-led practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within a Community Interest Company (CIC), social enterprise or charity.

• Knowledge of Hackney, its communities and local stakeholder landscape.

• Experience of working in food education, community food, gardening, environmental education or a related field.

• Experience reviewing and managing contracts, service agreements or other legal documentation.

An inclusive workplace

We know that diverse teams make stronger organisations and are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to fair and inclusive recruitment and will consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

We particularly encourage applications from people who are under-represented in our sector and in leadership roles, including people from the global majority and those whose lived experience brings valuable perspectives from the communities we serve. We also welcome applications from people who live in Hackney or East London.

How to apply

The deadline to apply is Monday 20 July at 9am. Please apply by filling out this application form.

You'll find the link to the application form on our Recruitment Pack which provides more information. 

Stage 1: A one-hour online interview with the Senior Team and Board (24 July) 

Stage 2: On-site interview at Hackney School of Food (30 July), including a short presentation. 

We may also invite the preferred candidate to an informal meeting with the wider team and Board before making a final appointment. 

The successful applicant will need to pass an enhanced DBS check and provide two suitable references. 

We may close the application window earlier if we are inundated with applications, so please don't wait to apply.

If you have any questions about the role or your suitability, please feel free to get in touch with us. You will find a Recruitment pack and email address to contact via our website.

This is an exciting time to join Discover 

In spring 2026 we delivered a major programme of business transformation including rebuilding site infrastructure, new visitor spaces, an improved ticketing model and revised accounting system and procedures. 

We’re now looking for a permanent, part-time Finance Director to join our Senior Management team, shape and manage the finance department and bring financial insight to all areas of decision making. 

Overview of the role 

• Overseeing and continuously improving our financial systems, controls and processes 

• Leading, mentoring and developing the finance team 

• Producing management accounts and reports to funders 

• Analysis of financial performance and drivers 

• Leading budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes. 

• Cash and treasury management 

• Prepare statutory accounts and run the external audit processes. 

• VAT checks and returns 

• Ensuring compliance with charity, company and tax regulations and funder requirements 

More information and a Job Description can be found on our website.

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Director/CEO to help lead a multi-award-winning charity into its next phase of growth and impact.

You will help shape and deliver the organisation’s strategic vision while ensuring the successful delivery of our programmes.  Key responsibilities include:

• Leading strategic planning and organisational growth opportunities
• Developing fundraising and income generation strategies understanding the funding challenges and landscape for the charity sector
• Securing income contracts and partnership opportunities
• Overseeing financial planning, budgeting and reporting
• Leading and supporting a dispersed hybrid team
• Working as an ambassador with funders and stakeholders

Director of Operations

Gordon Moody

Location: Hybrid – regular presence across Redditch, Wolverhampton & Dudley, with national travel as required

Salary: £80,200 – £85,082

Gordon Moody is the UK’s leading charity supporting people experiencing the most severe gambling-related harms. Demand for our services continues to grow, and with our new 28‑bed Redditch treatment centre, expanded digital pathways and an evolving Model of Care, we are entering a pivotal and ambitious phase.

We are now seeking a Director of Operations who will play a central role in shaping the future of our services and ensuring we deliver high‑quality, person‑centred support across residential, community and digital pathways. This is a key executive role at the heart of the organisation, responsible for operational excellence, service performance, regulatory compliance and the delivery of NHS England KPIs.

Collaborative, values‑driven and motivated by purpose, you will work closely with the CEO, Clinical Director and wider Executive Team to ensure our services remain responsive, sustainable and aligned to the changing commissioning landscape. You will bring senior operational leadership experience from a regulated therapeutic, clinical or addiction‑related environment, with the ability to lead teams through change, integrate innovation and maintain the highest standards of care.

If you are inspired by the opportunity to make a profound difference and want your leadership to directly improve recovery outcomes for people affected by gambling harm, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Closing Date – 9am on Monday 27th July 2026

Director of Operations – Finance & Support Services
Dartington (& Torquay as required)
Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week, 52 weeks per year, ideally Monday-Friday 08.30-16.30
Salary: £51,663.00 - £59,597.00 per annum (DOE)

Are you a skilled operations professional with a background in finance?

We have a brand-new opportunity at Lifeworks Charity, for a Director of Operations (Finance & Support Services) to play a crucial role in our Central Support team. You will drive the sustainable growth and operational efficiency of the charity, directly contributing to our charitable impact.

You'll blend your financial expertise with your keen eye for operational oversight in this hybrid role, ensuring our resources are managed effectively to benefit the young people and families we support.

Who we are:

Since 1996, we've been empowering people with learning disabilities in Devon to achieve their dreams and build fulfilling lives. Our core values of kindness, respect, and positivity guide everything we do.

What you’ll do:

Finance

- Manage and maintain all financial aspects of the charity, including (but not limited to), budgeting, forecasting, reporting, ledgers, balance sheets, bank reconciliations, debtor accounts, cash flow management, insurances, property and procurement.
- Take a lead on the development of financial and fundraising processes and strategies.
- Manage and be the main point of contact for all aspects of ESFA and DfE funding compliance and reporting.
- Lead a small team to deliver outstanding support to the charity and act as a key financial advisor to managers across the organisation.
- Produce clear and concise monthly management accounts and provide financial insights to senior managers and the Board of Trustees.
- Working closely with external auditors, prepare and oversee our year end accounts.

Operations

- Ensure that charity governance and compliance is upheld, by contributing to record maintenance, managing registers and supporting with reviews of policies and procedures.
- Work with our external IT partners to manage our technology. You will make sure that the correct infrastructure, systems and processes are in the right place at the right time.
- Lead on IT security for the charity, implementing regular reviews to monitor compliance.
- Act as the Data Controller and manage all areas of data protection regulations, always prioritising data security.
- Develop and review charity policies as necessary, ensuring they align with best practices and legal requirements.
- Ensure compliance of Health and Safety policies, liaising with external advisors to maintain safety within the workplace.

Last but not least, we are looking for someone that is an advocate for people with learning disabilities and shares our common goal of making sure the people we support achieve their best lives with us. You may not be involved in the day-to-day work with our service users, but the work you will do is vital to the success of our charity.

What we're looking for:

You'll be a motivated and experienced professional who is passionate about making a difference. You should be:

- ACCA/CIMA/ACA part-qualified with significant experience (or fully qualified is a bonus!).
- A proven leader with the ability to inspire and develop a team.
- An expert in financial management, from budgeting to reporting.
- An excellent communicator who can clearly explain complex financial information to all audiences.
- Experienced in managing a broad portfolio, ideally including Health and Safety, IT, or facilities.
- Knowledgeable about governance frameworks and risk management.

If you are a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and a desire to contribute to a vital cause, we would love to hear from you.

We're passionate about supporting our staff just as much as we are about supporting our service users. When you join our team, you can expect:

- An hourly rate above the Real Living Wage
- A holiday entitlement of 33 days’ holiday (inclusive of bank holidays)
- A fully funded DBS check and update service to ensure a smooth onboarding process
- Access to valuable resources including an employee assistance program to support your mental and emotional health

Building a diverse and safe team:

At Lifeworks, we're committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the diversity of our community. As a Disability Confident Employer, we actively encourage applications from individuals with disabilities who meet the job criteria, and we guarantee qualified candidates with disabilities an interview.

Lifeworks is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. To achieve this commitment, we will ensure the continuous development, improvement and review of robust safeguarding processes and procedures that continuously promote a culture of vigilance in respect of safeguarding within our organisation. All staff undergo Safer Recruitment checks which include pre-employment checks, reference checks, and a DBS check with Barred List checks (where applicable).

Early applications encouraged!

This vacancy is scheduled to close on the 19th of July, but may close earlier if suitable candidates are identified. So, to ensure your application is considered, ensure you apply early!

The interview format will consist of 3 parts; a formal interview assessment, a short presentation and a Q&A with staff members. If you are selected for interview, further details will be shared ahead of the above date.

Apply today and tell us why you'd be a great fit for our team.

Please note that this role was previously advertised as Operations Manager. We ask that previous applicants of this role need not reapply.

We’d appreciate no contact from agencies regarding this role. We are only accepting direct applications.