Chief executive business manager jobs

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced charity operations and finance professional to join as our inaugural Head of Operations and Finance. As we continue to grow our impact, we are seeking an exceptional Head of Operations and Finance to work closely with the Chief Executive and Executive Chair to help strengthen our operations and oversee our finances.

This is a pivotal leadership position combining strategic thinking with hands-on operational delivery. You will, support our Chief Executive and Executive Chair todevelop and implement organisational strategy while ensuring our people,systems, governance and finances support the effective delivery of our mission.You will join a close-knit team that punches above its weight, with real influence on policy affecting millions of babies worldwide.

If you're an experienced charity operations and finance professional looking for your next big challenge, we'd love to hear from you.

Head of Finance

Location: Hybrid, a mixture of remote working and office-based at Solar House, 3rd Floor, 1-9 Romford Rd, London, E15 4LJ.   
Hours: 3 or 4 days a week, negotiable

Salary:  Up to £62,500 (pro rata) 

Closing date of advert: 20 July 2026

Interview Dates:  TBC

Our mission at School-Home Support is simple. We get children and young people back in school, ready to learn, whatever it takes. Every role in our organisation helps make that happen.

We are looking for a Head of Finance to act as our financial conscience and strategic navigator. 

As the Head of Finance, you will provide strategic financial leadership while ensuring our day-to-day operations are exceptionally robust.  You will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer, line-manage a Senior Finance Manager, as well as working closely with our Board of Trustees.

In this role, you will be expected to serve as the organisation's financial conscience, ensuring absolute transparency, integrity, and strict adherence to UK fundraising regulations. Looking ahead, you will also play a key role in analysing commercial opportunities to drive new business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Stewardship: Manage general ledgers, reserves, budgeting, and long-term financial modelling.
• Governance & Trustees: Work closely with the Board, Finance Committee, and Remuneration Committee.
• Compliance & Legal: Ensure complete adherence to HMRC, Charity Commission, and Charities SORP requirements.
• Risk Management: Maintain and update the Risk Register to protect charity assets.
• New Business & Commercial Growth: Provide costings and commercial modelling for new tenders and products.
• Team Leadership: Oversee the internal finance team and third-party payroll providers.
• About You
• Qualifications: You are a fully qualified CCAB or CIMA accountant with extensive post-qualification experience.
• Sector Knowledge: You have a proven track record in a senior charity finance role managing statutory accounts over full year cycles.
• Regulatory Expertise: You fully understand UK fundraising regulations, charity governance, and company law.
• Commercial Mindset: You can confidently support non-finance departments with commercial analysis to secure new contracts.
• Systems Experience: Experience with Sage and Salesforce is highly desirable 

What We Offer
We really value modern workplace flexibility. This permanent role is offered as a 3 or 4 days per week part-time position, with a hybrid working pattern split between remote work and our office in Stratford, London.

We actively support staff wellbeing and champion a safe, diverse culture where everyone can be themselves. Here is what we offer our team:

• Employee Assistance Programme, providing confidential support for you and your family
• Life assurance for added financial security
• Pension scheme
• A structured induction and ongoing professional development
• A supportive and collaborative team environment where your experience and ideas are valued
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children, young people and families

Applications are reviewed continually, and we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date, so early applications are strongly encouraged. 

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. 

School-Home Support takes the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children very seriously, and is committed to ensuring that our safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice. Our safeguarding policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances.

All roles at SHS are subject to a DBS check at the level appropriate to the role.

Create is seeking a dynamic, ambitious, driven, fundraiser (grants/major gifts) with strong strategic skills, an exemplary income generation track record, and a passion for the power of the creative arts. This Senior Leadership Team position reports directly to the Chief Executive and manages a small team.

Do you believe in the power of the creative arts to connect, empower and upskill isolated and vulnerable children and adults? Are you passionate about relationship building, storytelling, meeting targets and changing lives? Are you excited to use your extensive senior-level fundraising experience, knowledge and contacts to lead Create’s income generation from Trusts & Foundations (T&F), public sector and High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI)? 

About the role

We have an excellent opportunity to join the College as Business Manager to Chief Executive (CEO). This role provides high-level strategic and operational support to the CEO and across the College while ensuring the smooth running of the Chief Executive’s Office. You will work closely with the Chief Executive (CEO), President, Vice Presidents, Executive Directors, senior leaders and the Executive Support Team, helping the College achieve its mission of improving women’s health care worldwide.

You will lead the Executive Support Team and be part of a collaborative, values-led team that enables leaders to focus on strategic priorities. You will help ensure decisions are well-informed, governance processes are effective and stakeholder relationships are strengthened.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the Chief Executive’s Office team to deliver high-quality prompt support to senior leadership

• Provide strategic and operational advice to the CEO and senior leaders

• Produce and quality-assure CEO reports, briefings and presentations and oversee forward planning and scheduling of priorities

• Manage CEO-led committees and groups including coordination of Chief Executive and President-led travel

• Oversee budget, planning, projects and events led by the CEO

• Act as a key contact for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring seamless communication and engagement.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys leading a team, working in a busy, dynamic environment, driving operational excellence and making a real difference to the College’s mission and strategic priorities.

For the full list of key responsibilities, please check the recruitment pack.

About you

This role is well-suited to someone who combines outstanding organisation with sound judgement and calm, clear communication. You are proactive and have relevant experience managing senior executives, building productive relationships and balancing multiple, demanding and fast-moving priorities.

Requirements:

• Experience of managing a senior leader’s office or equivalent environment including complex priorities and confidential matters

• Proven line management experience, with the ability to support performance and develop colleagues

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with credibility and judgement to influence appropriately at senior level

• Ability to manage complex workloads with discretion and professionalism

• Experience producing and quality-assuring board-level papers, briefings and reports

• Familiarity with governance processes and project management.

We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented groups, including people with disabilities and Black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates. We recognise that candidates may develop the relevant skills through different career paths and experiences. If you are interested in the role and believe you can make a meaningful contribution, we encourage you to apply. 

Our culture and benefits

You will be based at our London Bridge offices. We offer hybrid working arrangements. This role will also require regular office attendance to support senior stakeholder engagement, team leadership and collaboration. We offer a supportive, values-led culture and a competitive benefits package, including: 

• 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and office closure from 25 December to 1 January 

• 10% employer pension contribution 

• Life assurance and income protection schemes 

• Interest-free season ticket loan 

• Tailored learning and development opportunities 

• Enhanced wellbeing and family support 

• Employee-led diversity networks

• Lifestyle discounts 

 For a full list of the benefits we offer, please visit our careers site.

How to apply

• Click on Apply to be taken to our recruitment platform, Applied. Please visit our careers website to download the full Job pack.

• Applications close at 10.00am on Monday 20 July 2026.

• We encourage candidates to apply early and reserve the right to close the advert and appoint before the closing date.

• First-stage interviews are expected to take place during the week commencing 27 July 2026.

• We will provide shortlisted candidates with information about the interview format, timings, panel and any task in advance.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer under the UK Government’s Disability Confident Scheme. We will consider reasonable adjustments to accommodate individual needs throughout the recruitment process. Any information you share will be handled confidentially.

Please note: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK, as RCOG is unable to sponsor a work visa for this role.

About us

The RCOG is a professional membership organisation dedicated to improving women’s health care across the world. We do this by setting standards for clinical practice, providing doctors with training and lifelong learning, and working with partners to advocate for women’s health and health care across their life course. We are a global leader in this specialist area, supporting 19,000 members in the UK and internationally.

We are a values-led organisation placing high standards, innovation, openness, inclusiveness and trust at the centre of what we do.

About the eoa (Employee Ownership Association)

Employee ownership in the UK is at a critical moment. The sector has more than doubled since 2020. Awareness is rising. Evidence is compelling. Businesses, communities, and policymakers are increasingly recognising that a people-powered approach can unlock fairness, resilience, and productivity.

We believe the UK can reach 10,000 employee owned businesses within the decade, transforming succession, broadening ownership, and reshaping the economic landscape. But achieving this relies on bold, strategic, values-led leadership across our community.

The eoa exists to build and connect that community: a network of more than 850 member businesses, thousands of employee owners, specialist advisors, policymakers, and partners committed to powering fairer livelihoods and stronger businesses through employee ownership.

Purpose of the Role

The Finance Manager leads the eoa’s finances to ensure the businesses resources are used effectively, efficiently, and sustainably.

You will develop robust financial systems, reporting, and analysis to provide insight and assurance to the SLT and Board, playing a central role in safeguarding the eoa’s financial health and enabling its strategic goals to be achieved.

Role Summary

• Contract: Permanent
• Hours: 22.5 hours per week, working pattern to be agreed with successful candidate
• Location: Manchester (hybrid). You will be expected to attend the office at least twice per month, and more often where needed
• Salary: £45,000 (£27,000 pro rata) p/a
• Pension: Up to 7% employer pension match (from year 1 anniversary)
• Annual Leave: 30 days leave + bank holidays
• Reports to: Membership & Operations Director
• Management of: Finance and Business Support Administrator

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of the organisation’s financial strategy, ensuring it underpins and enables operational delivery.
• Manage the annual budget-setting process, working closely with colleagues to align budgets with strategic priorities.
• Manage day-to-day financial operations, including financial accounting, membership renewals, bank account management, cash flow monitoring, credit control, payments, and function oversight.
• Take responsibility for accurate and timely payroll and pension delivery, working in partnership with an external provider.
• Prepare and reconcile monthly, and year-end accounts, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and robust controls.
• Produce accurate, timely financial forecasts, management accounts and financial analysis to support operational and strategic decisions.
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements including tax (VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax) and financial reporting obligations.
• Maintain strong internal controls and risk management processes, safeguarding the organisation’s financial health.
• Act as a signatory on company bank accounts, ensuring appropriate authorisation and governance arrangements are in place.
• Lead the ongoing development and improvement of finance processes and systems, and automations to drive efficiency and effectiveness.

Knowledge, Experience, and Attributes

• Degree-level education and either ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualification.
• Proven track record in budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and delivering accurate management accounts and financial analysis.
• Experience of working for or preparing SME accounts, managing audits, risk, and internal controls, with a focus on continuous improvement of systems and processes.
• Strategic thinker who can translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insight for senior leaders and the Board.
• Highly organised, proactive, and solution-focused, with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Collaborative, adaptable, and professional, demonstrating integrity and sound judgment in all financial matters.

What Constitutes Success in This Role?

Success in this role means the eoa has reliable, efficient, and well-governed financial operations that underpin all aspects of the business. You will ensure day-to-day finance processes are accurate and timely, cash flow and budgets are effectively managed, and statutory obligations are met with confidence. By providing clear analysis and insight, you will support the SLT and Board in making informed decisions, drive improvements in systems and reporting, and enable the eoa to achieve its strategic priorities.

Key outcomes for the role Measures

1. Outcome: The eoa maintains accurate, timely, and insightful financial reporting and analysis to support decision-making.
   Measure: Accurate monthly management accounts and forecasts delivered on time. Rolling forecasts and scenario analyses updated regularly.
2. Outcome: Budgets are aligned with strategic priorities and financial resources are optimally managed.
   Measure: Budgets prepared and approved within agreed timelines. Variance between budgeted and actual expenditure monitored and reported. Cash flow maintained within agreed thresholds.
3. Outcome: Statutory, regulatory, and internal governance requirements are met and risks are effectively managed.
   Measure: All statutory filings (tax, Companies House, pensions) submitted accurately and on time. External audit completed with no significant issues. Internal controls and risk management processes maintained and reviewed annually.
4. Outcome: Financial systems and processes support operational efficiency and organisational growth.
   Measure: Transaction processing, reconciliations, and payroll delivered accurately and on schedule. Improvements in process efficiency implemented.
5. Outcome: Finance contributes proactively to strategic decision-making and organisational development.
   Measure: Financial insight and recommendations consistently inform senior leadership decisions. Evidence of finance-led initiatives driving cost efficiency or strategic impact.
6. Outcome: Finance function evolves to meet organisational needs and supports a culture of improvement.
   Measure: New or updated systems, processes, or reporting tools implemented successfully. Finance function demonstrates improved efficiency, effectiveness, or scalability over time.

How to apply

To apply, please submit:

• A two-page CV
• And ane of either:
  • Cover letter setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role
  • Video (maximum 10 minutes) setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role

Applications should be submitted before 9:00am 14 July 2026. We will close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. If you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Interviews will be in Manchester on 28 & 29 July 2026.

The eoa welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who are under-represented. We recruit based on values, skills, and contribution to our purpose.

Join the award winning Independent Society of Musicians

Central London  - Assistant to the Chief Executive and Assistant Company Secretary

28 hours per week – Circa £45K pro rata

The award-winning ISM is the dynamic, change making professional body  representing musicians. With a current membership of over 11,000, the ISM is known for its wide range of services to its members from legal to health and wellbeing. We are also known for our campaigning work on issues from music education to AI and Brexit.

The ISM is now looking for a highly experienced Administrator and Secretary to work alongside the Chief Executive. You will have very strong administrative skills as well as advanced knowledge of using Microsoft office packages such as Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint. You must have experience of ensuring good governance at Board level including  preparing Board papers and drafting and circulating Board minutes. This is a critical part of the role as well as drafting a wide variety of correspondence.

You will also be responsible for aspects of risk management such as health and safety. The Chief Executive is a senior leader in the music sector so you will need to be able to demonstrate absolute loyalty, discretion and confidentiality as well as excellent common sense and good judgement.

If possible you should have a music background.

You will have at least 5 years’ experience working  in Governance/ Administration or as a PA/ Secretary and will be used to working to competing deadlines with high levels of accuracy. You will be joining a professional staff team who are based in Bayswater, London. The role is 28 hours per week.

For a full job description for this role please visit the ISM website.

To apply please send a CV and covering letter saying why you are right the person for the job to membership team email address.

Closing date is Monday 20th July at 9.30am. Interviews will take place face-to-face and applications generated by AI will not be considered

Action for Refugees in Lewisham is a thriving, dynamic community charity supporting asylum seekers, refugees and migrants across South East London. This is an exciting new role to the organisation forming a senior management team alongside the Executive Director, Casework Manager and Education and Finance Manager. This key senior position combines line management of central staff, high level fundraising, grants monitoring and compliance, development of enhanced member co-production, oversight of operational systems and management of pilot projects emerging from AFRIL’s 2027-30 strategy.

Job Purpose:

• To manage and coordinate the operations of the organisation, overseeing high level day to day operations including IT and systems, GDPR, Health and Safety, volunteer management, operational policies and procedures.

• To provide leadership and line management to the Monitoring and Operations Officer, Experts by Experience Coordinator and Community Activities Coordinator. With possible additional line of other project staff as organisational capacity requires.

• Lead the enhancement of processes and systems which support AFRIL’s frontline systems to work effectively and holistically together, providing capacity and support to project managers and leads.

• Lead the development and delivery of AFRIL’s co-production work, supporting the Experts by Experience Coordinator to amplify members' voices at all levels of the organisation.

• Supporting the Director in delivering the organisation's fundraising strategy. Writing a range of funding applications, holding key funder relationships and developing new funding relationships, including the establishment of enhanced individual, community and corporate fundraising relationships.

• Leading on the management and oversight of the grants compliance and reporting cycles, producing monitoring reports for funders with the support of the Operations and Monitoring Officer. Overseeing and developing evaluations and impact measurement systems alongside the Director.

• Assist the Director with the implementation of AFRIL’s strategy, taking a leading role in the delivery of new projects and areas of work to advance the mission and vision of the organisation.

• Supporting the Director with the development and implementation of a communications strategy, enhancing awareness of the organisation's work and impact.

• To represent AFRIL at a range of stakeholder meetings, and develop and manage partnerships to benefit AFRIL’s service users.

• To work collaboratively and dynamically in a small team, following AFRIL policies and reflecting AFRIL’s values.

Wimbledon Guild is a community charity offering practical help and support, so that no one in the London Borough of Merton has to face life’s challenges alone.

We are a dynamic charity focused on delivering a wide range of excellent services to people in Merton. We work to:

• Reduce social isolation and loneliness
• Help people who are experiencing difficulties
• Enable older people to be active and healthy

We support older people to stay independent, offer Talking Therapies to improve mental health, and offer grant funding to tackle poverty. We collaborate closely with the London Borough of Merton, the NHS and a wide range of local charities and businesses and play a key role in Merton’s voluntary sector.

Our skilled, professional and committed team of 55 staff and 270 volunteers work hard to create a welcoming and inclusive community environment and we receive excellent client feedback.

The Role

We are looking for a Chief Executive to provide effective leadership and management of Wimbledon Guild and its team to ensure strategic development and the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
Our current Chief Executive will be leaving in December 2026, after 14 years leading Wimbledon Guild. We are in a strong position, with an excellent reputation and ambitious plans for returning to our refurbished building in January 2027.

Our new CEO will be joining us at a time of unprecedented demand for our services, with funding sources under ever increasing pressure.

Chief Executive Officer
Wimbledon Guild
Salary: circa £100,000 per annum
Location: Central Wimbledon

About You

We are seeking an inspirational leader and strategic thinker with a passion for social impact, who possesses:

• Strategic Leadership and Vision: Significant senior leadership experience within the voluntary, public, charity or community sectors, with a proven ability of developing new opportunities and entrepreneurial activity within an organisation.
• Operational & Financial Expertise: Strong financial competence, including income generation as well as budget management and forecasting.
• Governance Experience: A track record of working effectively with and reporting to a Board or governing body to ensure strong governance, transparency and comply with all relevant legal regulatory and Charity Act requirements.
• Staff Leadership: To maintain a supportive, positive and committed performance culture, and ensure effective recruitment, development, performance management and wellbeing of staff.

How to Apply

If you have any queries or wish to have an informal discussion about the opportunity, please contact our retained advisors at Prospectus, Omar Begg or Erica Ritchie via email with a copy of your CV.

Recruitment Timetable

• DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: 12th July
• INTERVIEWS WITH PROSPECTUS: 20th – 31st July
• INTERVIEWS WITH WIMBLEDON GUILD: Week Commencing 10th August

1 in 125 babies are born with heart disease.

Children’s Heart Surgery Fund (CHSF) empowers the lives of everyone born with congenital heart disease in our region. We do this through the delivery of our holistic family support service and by providing vital resources to the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit and region.

Our Fundraising and Marketing team are the driving force behind our charity. We are 100% self-funded, and we successfully manage a diverse range of income streams to ensure we can deliver our help and support each year. Children’s Heart Surgery Fund are proud of our Corporate Partnerships, we invest in relationships to maximise opportunities for businesses to fundraise for us and get involved in our activities and events.

We are looking for an exceptional person who is a natural relationship builder to join CHSF as one of two full-time Corporate Partnership Managers. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will be responsible for securing new business and seeing these partnerships through to co-deliver meaningful income generating projects that are enjoyable for teams as well as valuable for us.

Do you want to work for an organisation that nurtures and encourages talented employees?

Do you enjoy both the task-focused and strategic elements of charity finance?

Do you want to work for an organisation with a mission to change the trajectories of children’s lives?

TLG’s Finance Manager role could be the role for you!

Title: Finance Manager

Location: Hybrid – TLG’s National Support Centre, West Yorkshire (minimum 40% office-based including Tuesdays)

Salary: £37,066 - £40,090 (FTE)

Hours: Flexible, 30 – 37.5 hours per week (0.8 – 1.0 FTE)

Reporting To: Director of Finance

Contract: Permanent

About TLG

Transforming Lives for Good (TLG) is a Christian children’s wellbeing charity rooted in the conviction that the local church is central to God’s mission of restoration and hope for children and families. Today, through our existing programmes of Early Intervention and Make Lunch, over 220 churches are partnering with TLG, supporting 4,699 children each year, with 1,059 children and family members connecting into the wider support of the church as a place of belonging, care and hope.

About the Role

As we journey towards our vision to bring fullness of life for every child, no matter what struggles they face, we’re looking for a passionate, motivated and mission-driven individual to join our team as Finance Manager. 

The Finance Manager will play a central role in shaping the financial strength and future growth of the charity. As the operational lead for day-to-day finance, you’ll ensure robust financial controls, deliver accurate and timely reporting, and provide clear, strategic insight that empowers leaders across the organisation. Working closely with the Director of Finance, you will be a key voice in safeguarding financial health and driving forward our mission.

As someone who has completed or nearly completed their Accountancy qualification, you will be given responsibility in an environment centred on growth. The Finance Manager will lead a high-performing finance function, bringing expertise across budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and analysis. You will oversee and continually improve financial systems and processes, ensuring they are efficient, compliant, and fit for a growing organisation with ambitious goals. As you take on this impactful role, we will support and develop you as a leader with sector-leading internal and external training.

Some of the role responsibilities include elements of:

• Financial Management & Reporting
• Budgeting & Planning
• Systems & Processes
• Financial Leadership

Whilst the responsibilities and feel of the role will be familiar to someone with a career in charity finance, the close work with TLG’s commercial subsidiaries, the opportunity to speak strategically in the future of the charity, the focus on career development and the environment of grace and faith encompassing TLG make this role an attractive proposition for anyone who wants to make a difference for Jesus within the finance sector.

About You

You will be a fully or nearly Qualified Accountant who wants to grow in a finance career with an organisation committed to seeing you flourish. You can work well within a high‑performing finance function, bringing strong charity finance experience, excellent technical skills, and the ability to communicate clearly across the organisation, including with department heads throughout the team. You’ll balance strategic oversight with hands‑on delivery of management accounts, budgeting and reporting. Alongside this, you’ll bring an active Christian faith, playing a full part in the spiritual life of the organisation and working sensitively with people of all backgrounds.

Next Steps

For more information about TLG, the role and the person specification, please see the attached Job Pack.

To apply for the position, please click 'How to apply' send a CV and completed Candidate Bio Details Form to Christian Jobs.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Joe at Christian Jobs.

Are you interested in playing your part in making a difference to our world? Come and join our team as a Philanthropy Manager - we are hiring here at ClientEarth!

This role offers the chance to join a high‑performing, deeply collaborative Philanthropy Team within ClientEarth’s Development Department, working closely with major donors, trusts, and foundations across multiple countries.

Important dates to Note: Applications close on 20 July 2026 and if you are requested to submit additional information, the deadline to have this submitted is the morning of 22nd of July for your application to be fully considered. Please also remember to check our recruitment process section at the bottom of the advert to get acquainted with our recruitment process for this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Build a resilient donor pipeline and manage prospects and donors through each stage of the pipeline.
• Actively solicit and manage donor relationships across assigned portfolio to achieve global philanthropy income target with a focus on building new income and unrestricted income
• Work with the Global Head of Philanthropy and Lead to implement agreed fundraising strategies across geographies
• Collaborating with the team to implement the Philanthropy strategy as part of the overall Global Fundraising strategy, liaising with leadership, programme leads, communications and finance to ensure ClientEarth maximises potential income from corporate, restricted and unrestricted income streams

See the job description for a full list of duties for this role.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Fundraising management experience working in major donor fundraising.
• Demonstrable experience of securing five (or higher) figure gifts as well as multi-year commitments including unrestricted income.
• Good knowledge of donor and pipeline management, and financial processes 
• Previous line management experience 

See the job description for a full list of duties for this role.

Job Benefits

Flexible working:  We are proud to be a Flexa accredited Employer. Visit our Flexa Employer page for more information on our approach to flexible working. Our flexible working policy allows our people the choice to decide to work from home/another location in the country where their contract of employment is issued for 80% of their month, with the other 20% of their month being office-based. See our benefits page for more: Benefits | ClientEarth Careers as well as our flexible working FAQ.
 

ClientEarth values diversity and inclusion and the benefits this brings. We aim to appoint the most suitable candidate at all times and welcome applications from people from all different backgrounds. See our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) at ClientEarth | ClientEarth journey page for more.

Please note that ClientEarth is only able to employ those who have the pre-existing legal right to work in the UK or Belgium.
 

ClientEarth is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal services to third parties.

Deputy CEO and Creative Director Role

We are looking for a Deputy CEO/Creative Director to working alongside the CEO/Creative Director to contribute to the artistic vision, creative, entrepreneurial and strategic leadership of the charity.

For over 40 years, the organisation has co-created inclusive, artistic opportunities with diverse communities.

This work enhances wellbeing and celebrates culture and heritage. 

We call this Art for a Reason.

Position: Deputy CEO / Creative Director Role

Location: Manchester/Hybrid (3-4 days in the office, with one day being a Wednesday)

Hours: Full time, 37 hours per week

Salary: £43,869 plus a 7.5% employer pension contribution

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: Wednesday 8 July at 5pm

Interview Date: Thursday 16 & Friday 17 July

The Role

In this pivotal role, the Deputy CEO/Creative Director is responsible for working alongside the CEO/Creative Director to contribute to the artistic vision, creative, entrepreneurial and strategic leadership of the charity. Line managed by the CEO/Creative Director, you will lead on daily operations including governance, fundraising, marketing, embedding EDI across all aspects of the company’s operations and contribute to artistic programming to achieve our project objectives and strategic targets.

You will deputise as ambassador for the organisation and foster strong stakeholder relationships and will build relationships with the current major funders including the Arts Council England (the charity is not an NPO), Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and the Garfield Weston Foundation. On occasion, you may be required to deputise for the CEO/Creative Director.

About You

We are looking for a leader with a proven track record in creative/cultural leadership, who can contribute to the implementation of an artistic programme, oversee complex budgets, and foster productive relationships with a Board of Trustees. Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion are embedded in the work with communities experiencing inequality, exclusion or barriers to participation.

About the Organisation

Join a dynamic participatory arts charity based in Rochdale, dedicated to using creative practice as a catalyst for social change. For over 40 years the organisation has co-created inclusive, artistic opportunities with diverse communities that enhance wellbeing and celebrate culture and heritage.  We call this Art for a Reason. Through a range of initiatives from Art for Wellbeing to community-led festivals, the team provide opportunities for people to explore their heritage, find their voice, and experience the transformative power of the arts. The vision is for a world where everyone has access and opportunities to create, participate and belong.

We particularly encourage applications from individuals who live in Rochdale and/or identify as being of the global majority, disabled, neurodiverse and/or LGBTQ+/and or non-binary communities. The successful candidate will be offered the post subject to an enhanced DBS check and references.

You may also have experience in areas such as Programme Coordinator/manager, Learning and Engagement, Director, Creative Director, Operations Director, CEO, Director of Creative, Joint CEO, Deputy CEO, Assistant CEO, Chief Exec, Assistant Chief Exec, Deputy Chief Exec. #INDNFP

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

Cerebra is the national charity dedicated to improving the lives of children with neurological conditions and their families. We provide vital research, support, and practical solutions that empower families facing complex challenges.

With an annual income of £3 million and a headcount of 68 employees, we have ambitious plans to double our income between 2025 and 2027, ensuring we can extend our impact, reach more families, and drive real change. To achieve this, we are investing in fundraising innovation, income generating ventures, and strategic partnerships, alongside enhancing our brand to increase our national recognition.

Our work is underpinned by our values ensuring that everything we do aligns with our mission to create a better world for children with neurological conditions.

This is an incredibly exciting time to join Cerebra, as we are preparing to launch our new strategy and brand. The COO is a vital leadership role that will support the drive towards even greater impact for children and families across the UK.

Our Services

Sleep Advice Service

Cerebra understands that if you have a child that doesn’t sleep, the whole family suffers. Many children with neurological conditions suffer from disrupted sleep. Our sleep advice service provides bespoke advice and support so that everyone can get a good night’s sleep.

Legal Rights Service

Our Legal Rights Service provides help and support to families of children with neurological conditions when they are faced with barriers and difficulties in accessing statutory support services they are entitled to. The service provides information on their legal entitlements.

Book and Toy Library Service

Our specialist postal lending library contains a wide range of books for both adults and children, plus a selection of sensory toys specifically chosen for children with a neurological condition.

Innovation and Product Design Service

Our Innovation Service designs and builds bespoke products that cater to the specific needs of children with neurological conditions. The aim of the service is to make products that are desirable and exciting, therefore promoting social inclusion, peer acceptance and enabling children to participate in everyday activities that are so often close to them.

Information Products

Cerebra publishes different information products to help families with a child with a neurological condition. Our information products offer comprehensive, up-to-date support and research-driven strategies to assist families with a wide range of issues.

Buzgi and Toy Adaptation Service

Cerebra designs and builds bespoke assistive equipment for disabled children, this includes creating custom mobility aids, switch‑adapted toys, and other innovative solutions to help children access play, learning, and independence.

The Bugzi - a mini powered wheelchair for children offers many children their first experience of independent mobility. It uses either a joystick or switches and adaptable seating for complex needs, and helps develop spatial awareness, confidence, and early mobility skills. The Bugzi is available through a national loan scheme.

Additionally, we operate commercial services (including a web shop) to supplement our income to support children and their families.

Our services are provided to families free of charge.

Job Title:

Chief Operating Officer

Reports To:

Chief Executive Officer

Direct reports:

3 senior managers (Finance (headcount of 3), HR (headcount of 1), IT (headcount of 5))

Purpose of the Role:

The Chief Operating Officer will play a vital role in supporting the Chief Executive Officer, Board and Leadership Team to deliver Cerebra’s vision and ambitious strategic aims. The Chief Operating Officer will provide strategic leadership and operational management across key areas within Cerebra including:

• Operational Systems
• Governance
• Compliance
• Finance and Growth

This is a pivotal executive leadership role, responsible for driving organisational performance, sustainability and growth. The COO will translate Cerebra’s strategic ambitions into effective operational delivery, ensuring robust governance, financial stewardship and a high-performing, values-led culture.

As a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board, the COO will lead core operational services and commercial activity, enabling the charity to maximise impact and generate sustainable income in support of its charitable objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Executive Leadership

• Partner with the CEO and Board to deliver strategic priorities, growth and long-term sustainability
• Collaboration with the Director’s Group to ensure strategic alignment across the charity. The Director’s Group consists of:

            Chief Executive Officer

            Chief Operating Officer

            Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications

            Director of Research and Support Services

• Provide expert advice on finance, operations, commercial performance and organisational risk
• Lead organisational planning, business continuity, and operational resilience
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability and inclusion

Finance, Commercial & Sustainability

• Lead financial strategy, planning and performance, ensuring long-term sustainability
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow and financial controls
• Lead and develop Cerebra’s strategy for commercial income , ensuring alignment with charitable objectives
• Support funding growth through strong financial insight and business case development
• Ensure robust financial governance, audit and compliance

Operations & Infrastructure

• Lead and strengthen operational functions including HR, IT, governance and administration
• Ensure effective systems, processes and infrastructure that enable growth, efficiency and impact
• Oversee procurement, contracts, facilities, and organisational compliance
• Drive innovation and value for money across operations

People & Culture

• Champion a positive, inclusive and high-performing organisational culture
• Oversee HR strategy, workforce planning and leadership development
• Ensure compliance with employment law and best practice
• Promote wellbeing, engagement and organisational effectiveness

Digital & Technology

• Provide strategic oversight of IT, data and digital development
• Ensure systems are secure, resilient and aligned to organisational needs
• Leverage data and technology to improve insight, decision-making and organisational impact

Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Ensure effective governance frameworks, risk management and regulatory compliance
• Support the CEO and Board with high-quality reporting and strategic insight
• Lead safeguarding, data protection and organisational risk strategy
• Drive a strong culture of accountability and ethical practice

Leadership & Management

• Lead and develop a small senior team across finance, HR and IT
• Build capability, strengthen performance, and embed a collaborative culture
• Model Cerebra’s values and leadership behaviours

Key Attributes

• Strategic and commercially minded leader with strong operational delivery experience
• Strong financial leadership and business acumen
• Proven track record of driving income growth, sustainability and organisational performance
• Skilled in governance, risk and stakeholder engagement

Please see attached job description for the Person Specification.

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.