Charity director jobs

Unseen is working towards a world without slavery. We provide safehouses and support in the community for survivors of trafficking and modern slavery. We also run the Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline and work with individuals, communities, businesses, governments, other charities, and statutory agencies to stamp out slavery for good. 

Location: Unseen’s head office in Bristol (Hybrid approach with some working from home days. A degree of flexibility will be required)

Salary: £39,000 - £45,000 per annum (£65,000 - £75,000 FTE)

Contract Type: Permanent, Part-time (3 days /0.6 FTE)

Purpose of the role:

Reporting to the CEO as part of the Senior Leadership Team, the role of Director of Finance exists to maximise the effective deployment of Unseen’s resources in pursuit of the charity’s mission. The Director’s primary objective is to drive improvements in efficiency and value for money, optimising how the organisation’s human and financial resources, and physical and virtual infrastructures are utilised to achieve the greatest impact for survivors and stakeholders.

In essence, the Director of Finance will act as Unseen’s chief financial strategist – ensuring financial sustainability and growth, compliance and accountability, while continuously enhancing internal processes and resource allocation. By delivering excellent financial oversight, proactive risk management, and effective operational support, this role enables Unseen’s front-line teams and programs to flourish. The post-holder will balance professionalism and rigour with empathy and a genuine commitment to Unseen UK’s vision of a world without slavery.

To apply: 

• Please complete the application form attached. This includes a personal statement of 500 words outlining your suitability for the role, and;
• Please send a copy of your CV to jobs @ unseenuk. org with reference to the job title.

The deadline for applications is midnight on 4 January 2026.

Interviews will likely be held during the week of 12 January 2026.

Kindly note, we reserve the right to close the vacancy if we reach the requisite number of applications. If you’re interested in the role, we would encourage you to apply early.

As an organisation focused on equality and diversity, we welcome applications from all sections of the community and all backgrounds, including those with a lived experience of modern slavery, those from ethnic minority groups, those with disabilities and those from the LGBTQ+ community. 

Any questions, please contact jobs @ unseenuk. org. 

Lead the finance for London Black Women's Project, a specialist charity supporting Global Majority women and children who are survivors of domestic violence and abuse. Ensure robust, compliant financial management while helping sustain vital refuge, counselling and legal advice services.

Please note: Given the nature of work and the focus of LBWP, the organisation considers the candidate’s race and sex to be an occupational requirement in accordance with Parag. 1, Schedule 9, of the Equality Act 2010.

This post is open only to Black and minoritised, i.e Global Majority women.

About the Role
As Finance Manager, you’ll oversee all financial operations, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and strong governance. You’ll manage budgets, forecasts, rent accounting, and reporting to the Board and funders. You’ll also lead a small finance team and collaborate closely with the Director and external accountants to improve systems and drive financial excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day finance: income, expenditure, reconciliations, and supplier payments.

• Support the production of management accounts, cashflow reports, and forecasts.

• Lead budgeting and support managers to monitor spending.

• Manage rent accounting, service charges, and housing benefit claims.

• Ensure compliance with Charity Commission, HMRC, Companies House, and funder requirements.

• Line-manage and support two Finance Administrators.

• Improve financial systems and workflows.

About You

• AAT Level 2 minimum or equivalent.

• At least 5 years’ charity finance management experience.

• Experience with rent accounting, service charges, and housing benefit.

• Strong knowledge of Charity SORP, restricted/unrestricted funds, and financial compliance.

• Skilled in staff management and working with external finance providers.

• High attention to detail, organised, and confident working independently.

• Proficient in financial software and Excel.

• Committed to feminist principles and VAWG-sector work.

Why Join Us?

• Play a key leadership role in a small, mission-driven organisation.

• Support life-changing work with women and children.

• Join a supportive, values-driven team.

Want to work in a vibrant, dynamic and youth driven organisation that is protecting children’s health by transforming the food system?

Be part of the creative, agile and growing team empowering Bite Back’s exceptional teenage activists. As our Director of Finance and Operations you will make a real difference to our mission to help make the food system healthier and fairer.

As a key member of the Leadership Team, the Director of Finance & Operations provides strategic and operational leadership across finance, people, digital, operations and governance. They ensure the charity is financially sustainable, well-run, compliant and values-driven, so that our resources, systems and culture are aligned with our mission.

They will be accountable for the following areas:

Strategic leadership & organisational development

• Act as a strategic partner to the CEO and Leadership Team, shaping organisational strategy and translating it into robust financial, people and operational plans.

• Lead the annual organisational planning cycle, ensuring objectives, budgets and KPIs are aligned to the strategy and are realistic, affordable and measurable.

• Champion a culture of accountability, inclusion, learning and collaboration across the charity, role-modelling our values in leadership and decision making.

• Provide clear, insight-driven analysis and recommendations to support major strategic decisions (e.g. growth, new programmes, partnerships, investments, cost management).

• Lead and develop the Finance & Operations team (Finance, Fundraising, HR, IT/systems, operations) building a high-performing, service-oriented function that supports colleagues to deliver impact.

Financial strategy, planning & stewardship

• Develop and keep under review the charity’s financial strategy, ensuring long-term sustainability, appropriate reserves and effective use of resources.

• Lead and coordinate the annual budget and medium-term financial planning process, working closely with budget holders to create robust, activity-based budgets.

• With the support of the Senior Finance Manager, provide timely, accurate and insightful financial reporting to the CEO, Leadership Team and Board, including management accounts, restricted funds reporting, cashflow and forecasts.

• Maintain robust financial controls, policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, accounting standards and Charity Commission / Companies House requirements.

• Lead the relationship with external auditors and oversee the annual audit process, ensuring high-quality statutory accounts and a culture of continuous improvement in financial controls.

• Oversee financial aspects of funding bids, contracts and grant reporting, including costing models, financial due diligence and project / restricted fund monitoring.

People, culture & HR

• Champion Bite Back’s values - Fresh, Resilient, Respectful, Energetic, and Real - in all your work.

• Provide strategic oversight of HR, working closely with the HR & People Manager on people strategy, workforce planning, recruitment, employee relations and HR operations.

• Champion a positive, inclusive and psychologically safe workplace culture. Lead on embedding diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) across the organisation, shaping recruitment, policies, culture and practices so that staff from all backgrounds feel welcomed, represented, supported and able to flourish.

• Lead the organisation-wide objective-setting and performance management framework, ensuring clear expectations, regular feedback and fair, constructive review processes.

• Oversee learning and development approaches so that staff and managers have the skills, tools and support to perform at their best and develop their careers.

• Ensure all people-related policies and procedures (including safeguarding where appropriate), are up-to-date, legally compliant, values-aligned and consistently implemented.

• Oversee pensions, insurance, payroll and benefits ensuring these are well-managed, compliant and provide value for money.

Digital, data, IT & systems

• Work alongside the Digicomms team to support the organisation’s digital and technology strategy, ensuring systems and tools are fit for purpose and future-focused.

• Ensure the charity’s CRM (Salesforce) is effectively governed, embedded and used across the organisation, with clear ownership, training and data standards.

• Oversee data protection and information security, ensuring GDPR compliance, robust data governance and adherence to frameworks such as Cyber Essentials where relevant.

• Manage relationships with IT and systems suppliers, ensuring contracts are well-specified, performance is monitored and services deliver value for money.

• Lead the design and continuous improvement of cross-organisational systems and processes to reduce duplication, improve user experience and increase efficiency.

Operations, facilities & supplier management

• Oversee the effective management of the charity’s co-working space in Fivefields and any hybrid / remote working arrangements, ensuring they are safe, inclusive and support collaborative working.

• Plan for future workspace needs in line with organisational growth, culture and budget.

• Lead procurement and supplier management, together with the Operations & Contracts Manager, for key operational services, ensuring contracts are well-managed and aligned with our ethical, environmental and sustainability commitments.

• Ensure robust health and safety arrangements are in place and implemented across all activities, including appropriate policies, risk assessments and training.

• Oversee business continuity planning and disaster recovery arrangements so that critical operations can continue in the event of disruption.

Governance, risk & compliance

• Act as Company Secretary and secretary to the Board, ensuring effective governance processes and high-quality information flows between the executive and trustees.

• Ensure timely and accurate compliance with Charity Commission, Companies House and any other regulatory or funder requirements, including statutory filings and returns.

• Lead the development, maintenance and regular review of the organisational risk register, ensuring an appropriate appetite for risk and clear mitigation actions.

• Provide assurance to the Board and its committees on the effectiveness of internal controls and compliance frameworks across finance, HR, data protection, health & safety and other key areas.

• Coordinate the review, approval, communication and implementation of organisational policies, ensuring staff are inducted, trained and clear on their responsibilities.

• Support the Chair and CEO in planning Board and committee agendas, ensuring trustees are well-supported to discharge their duties and have appropriate information to make decisions.

About Ladywell and FMDM Foundation CIO

The Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood (FMDM) is an international congregation of Catholic women inspired by the life of Francis and Clare of Assisi. At the heart of their mission is Ladywell, a serene and vibrant multi-purpose site in Godalming, established in 1956, which includes a Care Home, Congregational Leadership Team offices, and a Finance and Administration hub. Ladywell is known for fostering hospitality, personal growth, and a peaceful environment rooted in Gospel values. It also serves as the location for a Franciscan Centre offering programs for day and residential groups. The organization supports its community of sisters with a team of approximately 70 employees dedicated to its mission.

In Ladywell, we seek to create a hospitable Franciscan place, rooted in Gospel values, where a peaceful atmosphere nurtures life for everyone. As Mission Partners, we do more than work for the Sisters; we work alongside them, each bringing professional expertise to help shape and direct the mission of the Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood (FMDM).

In Ladywell, we seek to create a hospitable Franciscan place, where a peaceful atmosphere nurtures life for everyone. As Mission Partners, we do more than work for the Sisters; we work alongside them, each bringing professional expertise to help shape and direct the mission of the Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood (FMDM).

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and values-driven Director of Finance to provide strategic leadership of all financial functions of the FMDM Foundation CIO and the wider Congregation.

Reporting to the General Bursar and working closely with the Congregational Leadership Team (CLT) and Trustees, this is a senior and influential role with responsibility for ensuring long-term financial sustainability, robust governance, and compliance with Canon Law, Charity Law, and financial best practice.

The post-holder will play a vital role in enabling the Congregation’s mission and global activities to flourish through sound financial stewardship, effective risk management, and collaborative leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall strategic and operational leadership of finance and business administration
• Oversee budgets, management accounts, audits, payroll, and statutory reporting
• Advise Trustees and CLT on financial viability, risk, and forward planning
• Ensure compliance with Charity Commission requirements, SORP, Canon Law, Charity Law and Civil Law
• Lead and inspire the Finance Team, supporting professional development and change
• Manage property, assets, investments, and external professional relationships
• Work collaboratively with international FMDM leaders and bursars
• Attend Trustee Board, Committee, and CLT meetings, providing high-quality financial reports

About You

You will be a senior finance professional who combines technical excellence with integrity, discretion, and a collaborative leadership style. You will be comfortable working in a faith-based, values-led environment and committed to supporting the mission and ethos of a religious charitable organisation.

Essential requirements include:

• ACA / ACCA / CIMA (or equivalent) qualification
• Senior-level experience in charity or not-for-profit finance and governance
• Proven experience of budgeting, management accounts, audit, and strategic planning
• Experience reporting to Boards of Trustees
• Strong people management and leadership skills
• High levels of confidentiality, professionalism, and attention to detail
• An understanding of the ethos of the Catholic Church in a professional context
• Excellent communication skills
• Willingness to travel overseas to countries in which the FMDMs are present, should the need arise

Desirable experience includes:

• Experience within international or religious organisations
• Knowledge of charity property matters and investment oversight
• Familiarity with charity-specific financial reporting (SORP)

This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and the post holder must have right to work in the UK.

Why Join Us?

• A unique opportunity to contribute your professional expertise to a meaningful global mission
• Work in a peaceful, values-led environment grounded in Franciscan hospitality
• Collaborative working alongside Sisters and Mission Partners
• The chance to make a lasting impact through responsible stewardship and service

How to apply

To apply please write a covering letter clearly stating your interest and reasons for applying to work for the FMDM Foundation CIO as Director of Finance and Business Administration and provide an up-to-date CV to us by 7th January 2025. CV only applications will not be accepted.

First round of interviews to take place week commencing 12th January with those shortlisted to a second round later in January

St Wilfrid’s Centre is one of the most significant expressions of social action in the Catholic Diocese of Hallam — a place of welcome, dignity and hope for adults who are vulnerable, isolated or at risk of homelessness. For over 30 years, the Centre has offered daily support, practical help, community and opportunities for rebuilding confidence and connection.

We are now seeking a values-led Director to lead the Centre into its next chapter of renewal. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to shape a respected diocesan service as it evolves towards a clearer strategic purpose, stronger partnerships, greater sustainability and an impact-led culture.

About the role

The Director will:

• Provide visible, compassionate and strategic leadership.
• Lead service development and cultural change, embedding trauma-informed and inclusive practice.
• Strengthen governance, safeguarding, operational excellence and staff wellbeing.
• Build strong relationships with Sheffield City Council, health partners, universities, VCSEF - voluntary, community, social enterprise and faith organisations and local parishes.
• Oversee the Centre’s transformation into a renewed model (community hub or hybrid model shaped by local needs).
• Support long-term financial sustainability through partnership-building and fundraising.

About you

We are looking for someone who brings:

• Strong senior leadership experience in social care, homelessness, health, community or related sectors.
• A track record of managing teams, leading change and improving outcomes for vulnerable adults.
• Understanding of safeguarding, risk and quality service delivery.
• Strategic insight, emotional intelligence and resilience.
• A commitment to — and sympathy with — Catholic social teaching, coupled with a strong belief in inclusive services for all.

“St Wilfrid’s Centre is a treasured part of our family and a vital support for the most vulnerable in our community. We seek a Director who will lead with integrity, vision and compassion; someone who will strengthen the Centre’s mission and help secure its future for generations to come.”
— Bishop Ralph Heskett, Bishop of Hallam and Chair of Trustees

This is an exciting opportunity to join our highly motivated and passionate team as a Senior Finance Officer. This role is at the heart of the charity and perfect for someone who wants to develop their financial skills in the not-for-profit sector.

The successful candidate will have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and good knowledge of financial systems and processes. You will manage the day-to-day financials, produce financial reports and analysis, work across teams to produce the annual budget and quarterly reforecasts and be instrumental in the annual audit.

If you are pro-active, analytical, and excited about working in a growing organisation, we would love to hear from you.

At Sarcoma UK, we are committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities and experiences. We are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements and will make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Benefits:

• Flexible working options including hybrid working
• Pension with 5% employer contribution
• 25 days holiday entitlement per annum plus bank holidays and the working days between Christmas and New Year
• Additional day off for your birthday
• Volunteering day per year
• Enhanced sick, maternity and adoption pay
• Sarcoma UK Life Insurance Scheme
• Health and wellbeing:
  • Health Cash Plan
  • Therapy sessions
  • Wellbeing Group
  • Team activities throughout the year
• Interest-free season ticket and bicycle loan

Our Values: 

• Pioneering we are leading the way to a better future for the sarcoma community.
• Together we are creating a community to make a difference for all those affected by sarcoma.
• Expert we use our expertise in understanding sarcoma to deliver better outcomes. 

Duties and key responsibilities

Financial Administration and Bookkeeping

• Responsibility for maintaining all financial records and data accurately and within agreed systems, to include:Maintaining up-to-date records in Sage 50.
• Importing bank receipts into Sage from Raiser’s Edge NXT.
• Processing purchase invoices, card transactions, and payments, ensuring correct coding to nominal and departmental ledgers.
• Maintaining payment records and reconciling grant payments within Sage 50 and grant management software.
• Generating sales invoices and carrying out credit control on a regular basis.
• Ensuring prompt payment of invoices and preparing payments with the bank for review by the Director of Finance & Resources.
• Maintaining the expense management system in line with policies and ensuring timely authorisation and reimbursement.
• Ensuring accurate records of authorisation and financial approvals.
• Preparing and posting all month-end journals.
• Completing monthly reconciliations for all bank accounts.
• Working with the Database and Finance Officer to reconcile income between Sage 50 and the income spreadsheet on a quarterly basis.
• Maintaining organised financial files to support monthly reporting and the year-end audit.
• Updating and monitoring the VAT threshold spreadsheet, ensuring the organisation remains compliant and alerting the Director of Finance & Resources to any potential threshold issues. 
• Reconciling and maintaining restricted funding and expenditure for projects.
• Covering the following duties when the Database and Finance Officer is on leave: monitoring income and updating the income spreadsheet daily; paying cheques and cash into the bank account in a timely manner.
• Supporting fundraising events, e.g. preparing card readers, paperwork, and reconciling cash.

 Financial Reporting

• Producing timely and accurate monthly management accounts, accompanied by analysis, commentary, and project-level breakdowns.
• Providing analysis and ad-hoc financial information as required.
• Maintain and regularly update the restricted fund spreadsheet, ensuring accurate tracking of income, expenditure, and balances in line with donor and grant requirements.

Budget Management

• Supporting the preparation of the annual Excel-based organisational budget and quarterly forecasts.
• Participating in budget meetings with managers to ensure robust and realistic financial plans.
• Assisting project managers with the preparation of Excel-based project budgets.

Audit

Preparation for the annual audit and compliance with statutory financial reporting requirements, including:

• Preparing audit documentation and working papers in collaboration with the Director of Finance & Resources.
• Acting as the primary point of contact for auditors, coordinating documentation requests before and during audit week.

Other

• Ensuring financial policies and processes remain fit for purpose, recommending and implementing improvements where needed.
• Acting as the main point of contact for financial queries, with support from the Director of Finance & Resources.
• Carrying out any other duties reasonably required to support the effective financial management of Sarcoma UK.
• Adapting to the needs of a developing organisation and undertaking additional responsibilities as necessary.

Director of Fundraising

Location: Hammersmith, London (2 or 3 days per week in the office)
Hours: 37.5 per week
Salary: £75,000–£80,000 per annum
Reporting to: Chief Executive
Term: Permanent

Aquilas is delighted to be partnering with The Honeypot Children’s Charity to recruit a visionary Director of Fundraising to lead the organisation into its next phase of growth and impact.

About Honeypot:

For over 30 years, Honeypot has supported young carers aged 5–12 across the UK, providing respite and learning breaks alongside a holistic range of services. We create safe, nurturing environments where children facing demanding home responsibilities can thrive and reach their full potential.

Our work supports children caring for a sick or disabled parent or sibling through ongoing, tailored services including respite and educational breaks, wellbeing grants, healthy eating and nutrition support, and pastoral care. We focus on early intervention and work in partnership with more than 130 referral organisations to provide sustained support for up to eight years, depending on individual need.

About the role:

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Fundraising will lead and deliver ambitious fundraising strategies, grow income streams, strengthen partnerships, and secure sustainable funding to support Honeypot’s vital work. The successful candidate will bring proven fundraising leadership experience, strong relationship-building skills, and a genuine passion for improving outcomes for young carers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver the fundraising strategy
• Lead, manage, and inspire the fundraising team
• Build and maintain relationships with major donors, corporates, and grant-makers
• Ensure compliance and best practice in fundraising
• Grow income through Charity of the Year partnerships

Person Specication:

• Proven track record in income generation
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Charity sector experience (desirable)

To Apply:

To receive a candidate pack or arrange a confidential conversation, please contact:

Kieran McGorrian, Head of Not for Profit Appointments, Aquilas (contact details in candidate pack)

Applications close 5pm Monday 5th January 

• Provide inspirational leadership and clear strategic direction for the Freshly Greated CPP programme.
• Lead the implementation of the programme with creativity and a strong commitment to its aims and objectives.
• Develop and nurture the key partnerships in Great Yarmouth and beyond that support the programme’s sustainability and growth.

The Executive Director leads the Freshly Greated programme, working closely with the Freshly Greated Consortium, Arts Council England (ACE), freelancers, volunteer Community Producers and the wider local community. The Director manages a small, multi-disciplinary team and is responsible for the programme’s creative direction, partnership development, financial sustainability, evaluation,  compliance and will also develop and lead an ambitious, co-created community-led arts and culture programme that has action research and evaluation at its core. 

Freshly Greated is a year round programme which includes award winning youth participation and intergenerational projects across three neighbourhoods. In partnership with Out There Arts, Freshly Greated create vibrant public celebrations across parks, beaches, and town spaces, inspired by local stories. Last year, 61,942 residents took part in workshops, events, and festivals that are free, inclusive, and locally led. All Community Producers agree Freshly Greated proves everyone is creative, builds skills, and strengthens community spirit - 94% say it increases local pride, and 91% believe it makes Great Yarmouth a better place to live. 

The Retail Manager with e-commerce will have responsibility for the five Danaher Charity

Shops providing strong leadership for shop managers to drive and enhance the

profitability and attraction of the shops, ensure standards and administrative procedures

are streamlined and stock levels are properly controlled with supplies also made available

for online sale. Building an online, e-commerce, function is a key priority for this role.

A high level of organisation and communication is required in this role and a hands-on

approach to ensure success at this small charity. Main responsibilities of the e-commerce

manager’s post will include:

•  producing income for Danaher through sales via online platforms such as Vinted and eBay and through charity shops.

• Building good relationships with local business and doners to ensure a continuing supply of stock for resale.

• line management of the five charity shop managers and the Danaher drivers to provide to manage the logistics of stock and supplies, support volunteer recruitment

• Taking part in events to create opportunities for sales and promotion of Danaher animal home.

• Alongside other senior key staff members, provide Senior leadership out of hours at weekends on a rota basis as an emergency contact should staff require it.

Director of Campaigns and Communications (Responsible Investment Charity)

Civitas Charity Recruitment are delighted to support ShareAction in the recruitment of a dynamic and visionary Director of Campaigns and Communications. This is a pivotal leadership role, responsible for shaping high-profile, high-impact campaigns and building strategic narratives that challenge corporate behaviour and activate investor influence.

The Organisation

ShareAction is an independent UK-registered charity working to build a financial system that serves people and the planet. They are experts in responsible investment, harnessing the influence of investors, pension funds and civil society to improve corporate behaviour on environmental, social and governance issues — from climate change and health to worker rights and corporate accountability. Through research, rankings, investor engagement, coalition-building and public campaigns, ShareAction challenges harmful practices and drives systemic change in the global financial system.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Set the strategic direction for campaigns, communications and civil society engagement
• Lead integrated advocacy and public campaigns that elevate ShareAction’s voice
• Oversee media outreach, digital strategy and storytelling across channels
• Build and nurture partnerships with investors, civil society, policy makers and funders
• Represent ShareAction externally, including at high-level events and in the press
• Align campaign goals with organisational priorities and funding strategy

The Candidate

The ideal candidate will be a seasoned communications and campaigns leader with a proven record of delivering high-impact advocacy and narrative strategy. You will bring:
• Substantial experience leading complex campaigns or communications at senior level
• Excellent strategic thinking and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to simplify complex issues and communicate them compellingly across audiences
• Strong leadership and people-management experience
• A values-driven approach that aligns with ShareAction’s mission and commitment to equity and inclusion.

If the role sounds of interest and you feel like you meet the criteria, please apply immediately or alternatively contact Syed at Civitas Recruitment for further information, including the job pack.

Join a movement transforming how communities create lasting change. This isn't a typical charity role—it's a chance to shape the future of place-based working across the UK and help lead a growing organisation.

Place Matters is a small, entrepreneurial charity punching above its weight. We work at the intersection of communities, public services, funders, and policymakers to tackle the root causes of inequality and create changes that communities want to see. Our approach? Empower communities to lead change in their own places, learn from what works, and influence the systems that hold them back.

Why this role matters

This is a senior position on our Executive team, reporting directly to a co-CEO. You'll play a leadership role in developing our organisation—shaping strategy, building our team, and deepening partnerships. We're looking for someone colleagues and Trustees trust to make sound decisions on behalf of our mission.

Learning and practice development is at the heart of everything we do. You'll design and lead learning partnerships that build the capabilities of communities and organisations to work differently. You'll capture insights from the ground and turn them into accessible tools, frameworks, and resources that make place-based working more effective for everyone.

You need to be a team player, confident and with strong opinions, but low ego and collegiate

What you'll do

• Lead the development and delivery of Learning and Practice Development Partnerships
• Initiate, convene and participate in ‘field-building’ efforts that aim to influence the broader place-based change sector, bringing together community organisations, public sector organisations, policy makers, foundations and businesses to build broader support for community centred place-based change
• Develop Place Matters thought and practice leadership
• Draw together the themes and patterns from learning into regular blogs and publications to make the learning as widely accessible as possible and influence key policy makers and funders
• Initiate and convene field-building efforts to influence the broader place-based change sector
• Build a wide network of place-based practitioners from all sectors
• Play a key role in business development, securing new partnerships, fundraising, and improving organisational efficiency

See job description (JD) for full details

What makes this role special

• Executive leadership: Part of the leadership team shaping organisational direction
• Real autonomy: Lead your own projects, design new partnerships, represent Place Matters externally
• Learning culture: We practice what we preach—continuous learning and innovation are built in
• Flexible working: Hybrid arrangement, negotiable location, with UK travel (up to 50 days annually)
• Competitive salary: £65,000-£75,000 (negotiable based on experience)

Practical details

Ideally 37.5 hours per week (flexible) but we'll consider part-time. UK travel required, including occasional overnight stays and some evening/weekend work.

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from disabled people and people from diverse backgrounds.

We'll conduct interviews on 19th and 21st January.

This is an exceptional opportunity to join Belong’s Senior Leadership Team as Director of Policy & Research, a role that sits at the heart of our mission to shape national conversations on cohesion and integration. You will lead Belong’s policy development, research strategy, and national partnerships, ensuring our work is grounded in robust evidence and lived experience. This position offers the chance to influence systemic change, amplify Belong’s voice with policymakers and opinion formers, and ensure our insights drive real-world impact.

As Director of Policy & Research, you will:

• Lead the development of Belong’s policy and research agenda, aligning it with organisational strategy and national priorities.
• Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, briefings, consultation responses, and thought leadership pieces.
• Oversee the design and delivery of research projects, including commissioning and partnership work, ensuring rigor and inclusivity.
• Translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations and advocacy strategies.
• Foster strong collaboration between the Policy & Research team and Programme Delivery team, ensuring insights inform both policy and practice.
• Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, journalists, and opinion formers.
• Represent Belong externally at high-level meetings, events, and in the media, amplifying our impact and reach.
• Develop strategic messaging and narratives that position Belong as a thought leader in social cohesion.
• Support campaigns and public engagement initiatives that promote Belong’s policy goals.
• Contribute to organisational development, strategic planning, and income generation through proposal development and funder engagement.
• Line manage policy and research staff, providing leadership, support, and professional development.

This is a senior leadership role for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and wants to drive systemic change at scale.

About You
We are seeking a strategic and insightful leader with:

• Proven experience in policy development and research leadership.
• Experience working in or with government, think tanks, or advocacy organisations.
• Strong understanding of social policy and influencing processes.
• Knowledge of cohesion, integration, and community relations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including media engagement and public speaking.
• Ability to translate complex research into accessible policy messages.
• Familiarity with participatory and applied research methods.
• Strong strategic thinking and planning abilities.
• Relevant qualification in public policy, social research, or a related field.
• Experience managing teams and budgets, and supporting income generation through fundraising and proposal development.

Personal Qualities

• Passionate about improving cohesion and integration in the UK.
• Strategic and visionary thinker.
• Collaborative and inclusive leader.
• Politically astute and intellectually curious.
• Practical, focused, and reliable.
• Committed to personal and professional development.

Why Join Us?
At Belong, you’ll be part of a dynamic, values-driven team united by a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and connected society. We offer:

• 30 days’ annual leave
• Hybrid working (typically 3 days in the office)
• Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies
• 3% pension contribution
• Opportunities for professional development and growth

Join us and help shape national policy and research that builds stronger, kinder, and more connected communities across the UK.

Salary: £65,000–£70,000
Location: UK-wide (regular travel across England and Wales)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time

About Belong
Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network is the UK’s leading not-for-profit organisation dedicated to building a more united and less divided society. Established in 2019, we work across sectors to strengthen trust, belonging, and resilience in communities. Through research, policy influence, and place-based programmes, we connect people, places, and organisations to share learning and drive systemic change. Our growing membership spans local authorities, charities, civil society, and businesses. Belong is collaborative, evidence-led, and committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Our office is based in Manchester and we offer hybrid working for those able to travel there. However, this role is open UK-wide and can be worked remotely, with regular travel across England and Wales required.

Our partner, a respected and established international charity supporting programmes across Africa; seeks a qualified and experienced senior finance professional to provide strategic financial leadership, maintain robust systems, controls, and donor compliance across the organisation. The Director of Finance is responsible for organisational financial strategy, budgeting, reporting, external audits, risk management, and supporting programme delivery through high-quality financial oversight.This hands-on role requires the Director of Finance to execute daily tasks as well as overseeing, and mentoring, others within the team to undertake what is required.

Key responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership & Financial Planning 

• Lead the organisation’s financial strategy ensuring sustainability and alignment with mission and organisational priorities. 

• Advise the CEO and Board on financial performance, risk, and scenario planning. 

• Develop long-term financial models and cashflow forecasts. 

• Provide financial insight to strategic decisions, business cases, growth opportunities, and operational planning. 

Financial Management & Control 

• Oversee and execute specific tasks relating to financial operations including accounting, treasury, cash management, payroll, and banking. 

• Ensure monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closes are accurate and timely. 

• Maintain and strengthen internal financial controls across central team and country/project operations. 

• Implement efficient systems and processes to support a lean but compliant financial environment. 

Budgeting & Organisational Performance 

• Lead the annual budgeting process 

• Monitor budget performance, variances, and financial KPIs, providing clear analysis for senior leadership. 

Donor Finance & Grant Compliance 

• Oversee donor grant finance, ensuring compliance with institutional donor restrictions and requirements. 

Audit & Assurance 

• Lead the annual organisational audit: prepare schedules, financial statements, and required disclosures. 

• Ensure compliance with charity accounting standards (SORP) 

• Oversee financial donor audits, ensuring timely, accurate responses and evidence. 

Risk Management 

• Contribute to the organisational risk register by recording and presenting on financial risks to the Board and Finance and Audit Committee. 

• Implement financial due diligence for donors, suppliers, and country operations as required to meet organisation and donor policies. 

Oversight of International Operations 

• Ensure strong financial management of new country programmes creating and reviewing and renewing policies as required. 

• Support the development or review of financial systems, capacity, and reporting in relation to new country expansion work. 

• Oversee financial arrangements for countries where the INGO has no legal entity, including fiscal hosts, secondee payments, and contract structures. 

Leadership, Management & Culture 

• Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team to achieve operational excellence. 

Person Specification 

• Worked as a Finance Director or as a Head of Finance (with autonomy of decision making and board reporting duties) 

• Strong understanding of charity accounting standards and regulatory requirements. 

• Senior-level finance experience in an INGO, charity, or multi-country organisation (preferably with operations in the Global South) 

• Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA, CPA or equivalent). 

• Demonstrable experience with institutional donor compliance. 

• Experience leading annual audits and preparing financial statements. 

• Strong leadership and team management skills, including developing staff. 

• Strong budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis skills. 

• Experience managing multi-currency environments and international financial operations. 

• Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance staff, senior leaders, and Boards. 

Quartet Community Foundation is seeking a visionary and strategic leader to join our senior team as Director of Development. This new role will drive our ambitious 2026–29 strategy, building partnerships, securing new funding, and growing our endowment to £100 million to support communities across Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire.

Key Responsibilities

· Develop and maintain relationships with high-net-worth individuals and key partners.

· Secure significant new funds and grow Quartet’s endowment.

· Broker strategic partnerships to support disadvantaged communities.

· Lead and motivate a team delivering philanthropy, grant-making, research, and pro bono services.

· Represent Quartet at events and networks to raise our profile.

Essential Criteria

· Proven experience in philanthropy and donor relationship management.

· Track record of securing major gifts or revenue funding.

· Strong strategic thinking and leadership skills.

· Excellent networking and communication abilities.

· Experience in the charitable sector and managing teams.

Salary & Benefits

£55,000–£60,000 per annum, depending on experience. Benefits include 6% employer pension contribution, health benefits scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, Cycle to Work scheme, and generous holiday entitlement.

Location

Based at our central Bristol office with travel across the region. Hybrid working available.

How to Apply

Download the Recruitment Pack and Application Form from our website.