Chief executive jobs

This is not a turnaround role, but nor is it a stewardship-only role. We are looking for a CEO to lead the next ambitious phase of Literacy Pirates’ journey: building on strong foundations to deliver a disciplined, digitally enabled phase of national growth. The successful candidate will not be expected to reinvent the mission or abandon the existing strategy. They will be expected to sharpen execution, increase momentum, strengthen the growth engine, and lead the organisation through the next phase of scale. 

The CEO will work closely with a strong Senior Leadership Team and Board to scale the Virtual Ship, strengthen partnerships and income, protect what is distinctive about Literacy Pirates, and ensure the organisation is operationally and financially ready for sustained growth. 

Role purpose 

To lead Literacy Pirates through its next phase of growth by: 

• scaling the Virtual Ship nationally in line with the 2030 strategy; 
• maintaining impact while improving the organisation’s economics and operating model; 
• building the partnerships, income and organisational capacity needed for long-term success; and 
• protecting and evolving the culture, values and quality that make Literacy Pirates distinctive. 

What have you done today that really changed someone’s life?​

At Samaritans, every conversation that saves a life begins with someone choosing to give their time, care and compassion. Together, our team of more than 23,000 volunteers and 300 staff makes Samaritans what it is. Our people work side by side, creating a community that transforms lives every day.

We are now seeking an exceptional Executive Director of People and Culture to join our Executive Leadership Team, reporting directly to the CEO. In this role you’ll influence our strategy and champion the experience, culture and leadership that enables our people to thrive.

This is a rare opportunity to lead with heart and strategy, shaping a culture where volunteers and staff feel valued, connected and empowered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people during crisis so no one feels alone in their darkest moments.
Samaritans is on an ambitious journey of change, we are evolving how we work, strengthening collaboration across the organisation and ensuring our systems, structures, culture and leadership enable us to meet growing need for our life-saving listening services.

You could not be joining us at a more pivotal time and the experience of our people has never been more important. We want Samaritans to be a place where people feel valued, heard and able to contribute fully to our cause. A place where connection, collaboration and compassion shape how we work together, so that we can continue to be there for all who need us now and in the years ahead in our mission to reduce suicide rates.

​As Executive Director of People and Culture, you’ll play a central role in our future. Every decision you make, every strategy you implement, and the culture you help us to shape within this role will matter to many, because when it comes to suicide, tomorrow really is too late.​

​Every day. Every hour. Every life

​

About the Role

As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, you’ll lead the People Strategy and provide executive leadership across the Samaritans community. You’ll ensure that our culture reflects our values of trust, collaboration, inclusion and high performance, connecting staff and volunteers in a shared purpose.

This role spans the full spectrum of people experience across staff and volunteering, from recruitment, engagement, development, and wellbeing, to pay and reward, equity, diversity, inclusion and retention, you’ll be providing strategic oversight that enables our volunteer and paid workforce to deliver life-saving impact.

You’ll help ensure Samaritans is an employer and volunteering organisation of choice, strengthening leadership, culture and people experience to support our ambitious transformation journey.

​

About You

We are looking for a values-driven compassionate and personable senior leader with a proven track record of leading people strategy, cultural transformation and organisational change. You’ll bring:​

• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams in complex organisations

• Expertise in driving culture change with measurable impact

• Ability to inspire and connect with both volunteers and staff at all levels

• Strategic and evidence-based decision-making aligned with organisational goals

• Passion for equity, diversity, inclusion and embedding lived experience in culture and decision-making

• Credibility, integrity, resilience, and the ability to lead people through change in a complex, purpose-driven organisation​

Full outline in the Job description file here. You can also read more about our future proofing plans here -​Our need for change​

You are someone who wants to see the real difference your leadership makes, not just in strategy documents, but in people’s lives.

This is a once-in-a-career opportunity to shape the culture, leadership and people experience that will allow Samaritans to be there for everyone who needs us, now and in the years ahead. Your leadership will directly influence how we connect, support, and empower those who change lives every day.​

If this sounds like you, and you’re looking for your next challenge, we’d love to hear from you.

The contract terms​

• Permanent contract​

• £110,000 per annum plus Benefits​

•  Our full time hours are 35 hours per week, but we are committed to flexible working ​and offer a hybrid approach to working. ​Members of our ELT are expected to be in person at one of our offices at least once a week and sometimes more. Due to the nature of our work, regular evening and weekend working is required of ELT members with time off in lieu given.​

• Hybrid working: Meeting in person and working collaboratively are things we value. This role is linked to our Ewell (Surrey) office with a blend of home working and option to work out of our London office as required.​

Criminal record check (DBS): ​We take safeguarding seriously at Samaritans and follow safe recruitment practices. As this role has direct contact with children and adults at risk, this role will require an Enhanced DBS check with Adults and Children’s Barred Lists.​

At offer stage, as part of the conditional job offer, we will require the candidate to disclose in full, spent and unspent convictions by completing a declaration form. The declaration form will only be seen by those who need to see it as part of the recruitment process. ​

​

About Samaritans:

You’ll join a values-led organisation with a powerful mission and a collaborative culture. We offer flexible hybrid working, excellent benefits, and the chance to make a tangible difference in suicide prevention across the UK and Ireland.

For further information about Samaritans, including our charity structure, values, employee benefits, and application process, please read our recruitment pack for the role here. You can also visit our careers website to access this.​

We recognise the enormous benefits and the social justice imperatives of ensuring diversity at every level of our organisation. Samaritans is wholly committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture and environment where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are. To ensure Samaritans is representative of those we support and who support us, we particularly welcome applications from disabled, racialised minority and LGBTQ+ candidates, as these people are under-represented at Samaritans. 

​

To Apply

Please complete the online application form including the questions outlined below here, and submit these along with your CV, with a brief supporting statement.​

• ​Describe your experience delivering a People and Culture strategy within a complex organisation, what mattered most to you and what did you achieve? (300 words max)

​• Samaritans is on an ambitious journey of organisational change. Whilst describing a specific example where you personally led a significant cultural or organisational transformation, outline what would be important to you and what you would do in this role to quickly be instrumental in leading this change. (300 words max)

•In your own words - what makes you the right person for the Executive Director of People and Culture role at Samaritans? Outline how your unique leadership helps ensure our staff and volunteers feel valued, connected and able to contribute fully to our mission now and in the years to come? (300 words max)

• Our advert begins with the question: “What have you done today that really changed someone’s life?” What does that question mean to you as a leader, and how would you ensure Samaritans people see and feel how valuable their contribution is to our overall mission?(300 words max)​

At Samaritans, human connection is at the heart of everything we do. We do not use AI at any stage during the selection process. Your application will always be carefully reviewed by the recruiting manager or a member of the Talent Attraction Team. We kindly ask that you don’t rely on AI tools for your application answers, or to generate interview answers. We want to see your own unique ideas and writing skills. We want your application to stand out from the rest and showcase your own strengths.​

Applications close at Midnight 6th April.

​

Interviews

All applicants will receive notification of the outcome of their application, at the appropriate time.

The interview process will be in two possibly three stages, allowing enough time to connect with leaders and explore this great opportunity with candidates.​

In-person interviews will be taking place as outlined;​

First stage Interviews: London City Hub Office (Leadenhall ) on 16th or 17th April

Second stage Interviews: Ewell Office (Epsom, Surrey) on Monday 20th April

Final Interviews: Ewell Office (Epsom, Surrey) on Thursday 23rd April​

Please hold these dates in diaries if applying.​

As our current CEO steps down after five successful years, we are looking for an outstanding candidate to lead our charity in the next stage of its development.

As Chief Executive Officer you will provide strategic and operational leadership to our well-established community charity, ensuring that our activities and projects continue to meet the changing needs of our local community.

You will work closely with the board of trustees to shape the next stage of our charity’s development. You will lead our staff team and ensure that all the resources and structures are in place that allow them and the charity to flourish. This means successfully securing grant funding, leading our community fundraising efforts, ensuring the charity meets its legal and regulatory obligations, managing the operational finances, and building effective partnerships within the local voluntary, community, and faith sector.

You will be equally comfortable writing a funding bid, supporting a member of staff, navigating a spreadsheet, working directly with beneficiaries, and providing concise and accessible reports to trustees and stakeholders. This is a varied role where no two days are quite the same. Your work will make a real difference to the lives of those we support and this is what makes it so rewarding.

For more information please see the recruitment pack attached. The closing date for applications is Friday 17 April 2026.

Cherry Trees helps to keep families together by providing home from home care for children with complex disabilities and a meaningful break for their families.

The CEO will provide dynamic and inspirational leadership, strategic vision, and operational oversight to ensure continued growth, maintain high quality of care, and deliver the charity's objectives. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO will manage the day-to-day operations of the charity, grow income through diverse fundraising streams, maintain the Outstanding status of the homes, and serve as an ambassador and senior leader.

For the full job description and to apply for the role, please visit our website.

Context and Purpose of the Role

After five years of dedicated leadership, GROW’s Managing Director is moving on. We are now seeking an exceptional, values-led leader to guide GROW through the next phase of our 2030 strategy and help realise our ambition to become a movement-shaping force within agroecology.

GROW is entering a pivotal stage of growth. Our focus now is on strengthening team capacity, centring community voice, developing pathways to leadership and employment, deepening hyper-local networks, and contributing more visibly to the agroecology sector.

With strong financial foundations, a committed team, and a long-standing partnership with a progressive secondary school, this is a rare opportunity to lead an organisation uniquely positioned at the intersection of farming, education, and community action.

The Managing Director will provide clear strategic direction and overall leadership, ensuring GROW remains responsibly-governed, financially resilient, and grounded in its agroecological values. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, they will nurture and inspire a multidisciplinary team of 16 employees and freelancers, strengthen key partnerships, and guide the organisation’s continued development and impact.

Job Title: Managing Director
Reports to: Board of Trustees
Salary: £48,000-£53,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full Time, 40 hours per week (9am-5pm with 1-hour paid lunch break)
Location: Hybrid. Minimum 3 days a week on site at The Totteridge Academy, Barnet Lane, N20 8AZ (more days on site expected for the first 3-6 months)
Pension: GROW participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 30% off all GROW Farm produce, annual training budget, subsidised lunches, and a generous holiday allowance of 28 days plus bank holidays.
Probation period: 6 months

GROW is a site-based organisation, and our farm sits at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for a Managing Director who is as comfortable talking with students, volunteers and visitors as they are shaping strategy and leading the organisation’s future. This is a role for a thoughtful, adaptable and hands-on leader who can hold the big picture while staying closely connected to our farm, outdoor programmes and the communities we work alongside.

Leadership at GROW is practical, relational and rooted in place. One day you might be gathering feedback from our Student Board of Advisors, listening to how our programmes are working for the young people who shape them. The next, you might be at the farm stall chatting with local community members selling jars of GROW’s homemade pickles. The Managing Director helps ensure that these everyday moments remain central to the organisation.

The successful candidate will lead a small, committed team of 16 staff, nurturing a culture that is collaborative, knowledgeable and grounded in our values. They will guide GROW’s strategic direction while staying attentive to the daily rhythms of farm and school life that make it a vibrant place for learning, growing and connection. 

Trustees recognise the breadth of this role and are committed to strengthening the organisation’s operational capacity. An early priority for the new Managing Director will be to shape and secure support for an additional capacity-building role that complements their leadership and enables GROW to thrive in the years ahead.

1. Strategy, Governance & Risk

• Provide overall leadership and strategic development of the charity.
• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Trustees quarterly.
• Ensure charity policies and legal guidelines are up to date, clearly communicated, and embedded in everyday culture.
• Ensure statutory filings (e.g. Charity Commission, Companies House) are accurate and timely.
• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, including charity law, employment law, data protection, health & safety, safeguarding, and environmental regulations.
• Lead on crisis management and serious incident reporting.
• Prepare high-quality written reports for Board and sub-committee meetings.
• Advise Trustees on strategic opportunities, risks, and sector trends. Support Trustee recruitment, induction, and development.
• Enable Trustees to fulfil their governance responsibilities effectively.
• Engage relevant professional expertise where appropriate to support decision making. 

2. Operations, Education & Farm

• Ensure operational resilience, deputising and covering critical functions during staff absence.
• Work closely with Education Leads to develop the quality of our educational
• programmes, ensuring they align with agroecological principles.
• Ensure thorough Risk Assessments are completed, communicated, and
• implemented for all activities and programmes.
• Support the income generation strategy for the Farm.
• Support the Farm Manager with infrastructure development, including planning permission applications.

3. Finance & Fundraising

• Act as the main point of contact for the charity’s accountants.
• Develop and oversee organisational budgets, leading annual budget-setting and ongoing monthly, quarterly, and forecast reviews.
• Develop and deliver the annual income generation and fundraising strategy with the Head of Fundraising.
• Oversee effective impact reporting with the Head of Fundraising.
• Develop and implement plans to improve cost-efficiency.
• Support the completion of large and complex fundraising bids.

4. Partnerships

• Act as the main point of contact for GROW’s key partner, The Totteridge Academy (TTA), and the Academy Trust, United Learning, to ensure the partnership is effective and positive.
• Build and develop partnerships with schools, youth services, local authority, community growing networks and organisations to support the long-term development of educational programmes and participant recruitment and local environmental impact.

5. Marketing & Profile

• Oversee the charity’s overall marketing and communications strategy.
• Retain strategic oversight of all core marketing and communications, including the press opportunities, charity’s website, printed materials, and promotional content, ensuring that GROW’s voice, values, and impact are communicated clearly and consistently.
• Build and enhance the charity’s public profile through events, speaking engagements, and external representation.

6. People, HR & Safeguarding

• Manage and support the team to effectively perform their roles and develop within GROW, ensuring staff are fully trained and confident with organisational policies.
• Lead the recruitment and onboarding of all staff in line with Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and Safeguarding policies, and Safer Recruitment best practice.
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead and ensure compliance with any safeguarding requirements set by partner school, The Totteridge Academy.
• Be rigorously mindful of child safeguarding at all times, embedding safeguarding policies in everyday culture and remain up to date with relevant legislation and training.
• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.
• Develop progressive internal systems, policies, and training that promote a fair, inclusive, and supportive workplace, grounded in our agroecological principles.
• Ensuring the organisation is GDPR compliant and acts as the Data Protection Lead.

7. Values & Culture

• Act as a role model for GROW’s guiding agroecological principles and organisational values in all internal and external relationships.
• Create a supportive, nurturing, high-trust culture in which staff and freelancers can thrive.
• Champion a culture of reflection, evaluation, and continuous improvement.
• Centre community voice in decision making, governance, and organisational strategy

Direct reports:
Farm Manager
TTA Education Lead
Senior Facilitator
Head of Fundraising
Freelance Programme Leads

This job description is not exhaustive; as a small and evolving charity, flexibility is essential and all staff are expected to take a hands-on approach and support wider organisational needs where required.
 

Person Specification

Essential Personal Qualities

• Strong alignment with GROW’s mission, agroecological principles, and organisational values.
• Ability to lead and nurture a strong, cohesive, and collaborative team intuitively
• and with empathy.
• Resilient and adaptable.
• Calm under pressure.
• Collaborative by nature and solution-focussed in approach.
• Strong commitment to inclusive working practices and social justice.

Essential Experience

• Significant experience working in a Senior Leadership role within a not-for-profit,
• education, and/or environmental sectors.
• Experience of building and maintaining successful partnership work, for example
• with farms, schools, local authorities, funders, and/or community organisations.
• Significant experience of managing and developing staff and freelancers in a
• small team.
• Proven ability to lead organisational strategy and translate it into operational plans.
• Experience working with, and reporting to, a Board or governing body.
• Experience of financial management, including budgets, forecasting, and working with accountants.
• Track record in contributing to fundraising, including securing major bids.
• Strong understanding of governance, compliance, and risk in a regulated environment.
• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth, or community context.
• Understanding of legal, progressive and inclusive HR systems and policies.
• Ability to develop and oversee marketing and communications that clearly articulate organisational mission, build community engagement and support financial sustainability.
• Demonstrable experience handling and reviewing legal documentation, including contracts, leases, and formal agreements.

Essential Skills & Abilities

• Strategic thinker, able to see and drive forward the “big picture” while managing operational detail.
• Skilled and inclusive people manager, able to motivate, develop, and challenge others.
• Excellent, adaptable and confident communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise and manage a broad and competing workload.
• Effective decision-making and ability to work independently with accountability.
• Strong relationship-builder with credibility across diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to lead teams through change and uncertainty.
• Strong organisational and administrative capability.
• Sound judgement and a high level of discretion when handling confidential or sensitive matters.

Desirable

• Experience or knowledge of agroecological farming.
• Experience working with local councils, schools, academy trusts, and authorities.
• Knowledge of charity and regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of the local Barnet area.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

At GROW we’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All qualified and eligible applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, gender identity or expression, race, national origin, religion or belief,
disability, age, sexual orientation or pregnancy and maternity. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and identities, especially those who are under-represented in the charity and food growing sectors. This includes, but is not limited to, people from the global majority, neurodivergent individuals, and those with a range of lived experiences. 

We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of our community and brings a rich mix of perspectives, skills, cultures, and ways of thinking.

JOB DESCRIBTION

Job title: Executive Assistant to the CEO

Contract: Part time, 3 days. Flexibility regarding working pattern: hours could be worked across 3 or 4 days in the week. Permanent contract.

Salary: £17, 398 pro rata (£29,000 full time equivalent)

Manager: Gestalt Centre CEO

Location: Hybrid working. In-person at London Kings Cross and remotely.

ABOUT US: THE GESTALT CENTRE

We are the Gestalt Centre, an established therapy not-for-profit organisation, supporting the mental and psychological well-being of individuals, groups, and organisations. We are a dynamic charity that runs, accommodates, and supports a number of counselling, psychotherapy, personal and professional development courses, and a range of therapeutic practices that enhance mental and psychological wellbeing.

As Gestalt Centre, our relationship with people who work for the centre starts from a place of trust. We see our structure as an organisational shape that we use to organise ourselves. What matters for us is how we all work together. We prioritise collaboration and ‘horizontal’ consultative decision making with individual and collective responsibility and accountability.

OUR VISION is a world were meaningful and fulfilling relationships lead to wellbeing  and positive change in people’s lives.

OUR PURPOSE is to promote the mental and psychological well-being of individuals, groups and organisations through Gestalt education, training and practice.

Gestalt is a life-changing approach to life, counselling, and psychotherapy. It enables people to develop meaningful relationships, navigate change and lead fulfilling lives by creatively utilising their own resources, skills and strengths.

OUR VALUES IN PRACTICE 

Diversity, equality, inclusion and anti-discrimination: We value equity and inclusion and welcome diversity and difference in backgrounds, identities, cultures, and voices. We also commit to anti-discriminatory action and encourage personal and collective awareness, reflection, and learning. It is integral to who we are and how we work and study together.

Kindness and respect for each other and the space we cohabit. Our relationship with people who work, learn and access therapy at the centre starts from a place of respect and kindness. This way we create a space where we can show up, work, and learn authentically and meaningfully. Feel seen, heard, and included.

Collaboration and mutuality: We work and study together, collaboratively and with respect and appreciation for each other. Every person matters and so does the collective.

Community, awareness, and personal responsibility: We are a community of staff, students, practitioners, and clients; working, studying, and accessing therapy at the centre. Individually and collectively, we are responsible for our presence and behaviour. Also responsible for our community and the space we inhabit.

ABOUT THE JOB

Job Purpose 

We are looking for an exemplary people-oriented administrator to provide administrative support to the Gestalt Centre CEO and the workstreams she manages. An important role in the organisation, working with senior leadership and across teams, in a welcoming and supportive environment with opportunities to learn and grow on the job.

Areas of work and responsibility

• Administrative Support to the Gestalt Centre CEO
• Coordinate and support projects and workstreams the CEO leads on: Operations, Communications and Marketing, Short Courses and Post Graduate Qualifications, HR, Finance, Policies, Fundraising and Health & Safety.
• Liaise with the CEO and the leadership team to update the organisational plan and workstream plans, also keep track of relevant priority actions and progress.
• Provide administrative support for governance processes such as the Annual Financial Audit, Trustee Board meetings, the Charity Commission and Companies House submissions.
• Provide administrative support to the organising and running fundraising activities and events.
• Administrative support and coordination for the annual planning of Short Courses and Post Graduate Qualifications programmes. 
• Organise, provide administrative support, and attend as appropriate, weekly operational meetings, monthly Executive meetings, and other project meetings, led by the CEO. Prepare meetings set up, information and any required papers in advance. Organise dates, taking and sending out minutes and coordinate follow-up actions ensuring progress and completion.
• Liaise with the CEO to prepare, format, edit and update reports and policies for internal and external audiences to a high standard.
• Provide a professional first point of contact for the CEO and as required liaise with her and the leadership team in order to respond to emails or phone calls and organise follow up meetings.
• Office team support such as reception/admin cover or support with events, as and when occasionally required.
• Carry out responsibilities with due regard to the Gestalt Centre values, policies and procedures.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Key Competencies and Qualities

• Educated to degree level or equivalent with good English and Maths.
• Experience working with and assisting senior leadership professionals.
• Excellent organisation and planning skills and experience, including balancing competing demands and prioritising effectively, forward planning and working to tight deadlines.
• Excellent coordination skills and good experience of coordinating projects, workstreams or activities.
• Excellent communication skills, including conveying information clearly and adjusting approach, manner, and language to suit varying situations.
• Excellent interpersonal skills (‘people person’) such as developing good working relationships with colleagues, working collaboratively and initiating relevant discussions to progress with work tasks.
• Experience and able to work well with senior professionals and in a positive professional matter.
• Able to work in a confident, calm, diplomatic and confidential way in a senior role and a therapy setting. Reliable and mature with a sense of personal responsibility for the role and the work involved.
• Flexibility and proactive problem-solving, always working with kindness and respect.
• Excellent attention to detail and confident with numbers.
• Good working knowledge and experience of databases and online administration systems, including information and files management.
• Able to plan and organise own work effectively and able to work well in a dynamic busy setting.
• Able to work collaboratively and independently on own initiative.
• Experience working effectively and appropriately with confidentiality and data protection in mind and in line with organisational policies and practice.
• Good working knowledge of MS Office applications such as MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint, email, and the internet.
• Commitment to Equal Opportunities and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
• Preferably experience working within an educational, training or therapy setting (desirable).

Lead a National Voice Driving Cardiovascular Health in the UK
Chief Executive - HEART UK
Location: Hybrid, with regular national engagement
Salary: Up to £90,000 dependent on experience
Type: Full time

About HEART UK
HEART UK is the nation's leading cholesterol charity - an organisation with a powerful voice, a bold mission, and the potential to transform millions of lives. With high cholesterol affecting up to half of the UK population, our work spans patients, clinicians, policymakers and the general public. The organisation is known and respected for its expertise, evidence based advocacy, and the ability to convene national conversations on cardiovascular health at the highest levels.

HEART UK is a dynamic, values driven charity with a turnover of c.£2m and a deeply committed team. Its influence rivals organisations many times its size, and they are poised for significant strategic growth. This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead a national health charity that is respected across clinical, policy and patient communities, and ready to scale its impact further.

What You Can Look Forward To
As CEO, you will shape the future direction of a charity with profound purpose and national significance.

You will:
* Drive Strategic Growth and Innovation
* Influence National Policy
* Strengthen Income and Build Long Term Sustainability
* Lead and Inspire a Dedicated Team

Why This Role Matters:
* The cause is vast and urgent
* HEART UK's voice is powerful and its influence is national
* The organisational culture is exceptional
* Your impact will be visible and immediate
* You will be leading at a pivotal moment

About You
HEART UK seek a leader who combines emotional intelligence, commercial strength and strategic vision.

Skills and Experience
* Strong track record in charity leadership, senior operational roles, or income generation leadership
* Skilled relationship builder comfortable with high level external representation
* Ability to oversee marketing/comms development (specialist knowledge not essential)
* Experience leading organisations through growth or transformation
* Health sector knowledge helpful but not required - learning will be supported in house

Personal Attributes
* Visionary and strategic, with a passion for public health
* Empathetic, people centred and values driven
* Adaptable, resilient and skilled at navigating complexity
* Confident communicator with natural presence and credibility
* Hands on, practical and comfortable working at pace in a small, high achieving charity

Recruitment Timeline
To ensure equitable access to information and uphold HEART UK's commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the charity will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the Chair/Outgoing CEO. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Tuesday 14th April 2026 and we will send you a link.

Application Deadline: 5pm Friday 1st May 2026
First Interviews: w/c 1st June 2026
Final Interviews: w/c 8th June 2026

How to Apply
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor HEART UK on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People and request a candidate pack in the first instance.
For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

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

RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to guide us through an exciting period of growth, transformation and renewed strategic ambition.

At Little Valley, our purpose is clear: to promote kindness, prevent cruelty, and provide outstanding welfare for the animals who rely on us. Our next Chief Executive Officer will inspire staff and volunteers, strengthen community partnerships, and lead with clarity, compassion and courage.

About the role

Our team is united by our compassion, collaboration, integrity, excellence and deep connection to our community - values that guide every decision we make. We are looking for a Chief Executive Officer who will champion these values in everything they do.

We are in a pivotal moment of investment and cultural renewal, with major developments underway - including improved facilities, modernisation of systems, strategic income growth and strengthened community engagement. This is your opportunity to lead an ambitious and much‑loved charity into its next chapter.

Key Responsibilities

(Full Job Description and Person Specification attached.)

• Lead the organisation’s strategic direction, ensuring alignment with our mission, values and long‑term goals.
• Drive high‑quality, compassionate animal welfare services across all operational areas.
• Provide visible, empathetic leadership that supports a positive culture for staff and volunteers.
• Ensure strong financial stewardship, diversifying income and securing long‑term sustainability.
• Strengthen partnerships, community profile and external relationships across the region.
• Champion innovation, operational excellence and continuous improvement at every level.

About You

You’ll bring proven senior leadership experience, exceptional communication skills, strong financial and governance capability, and the emotional intelligence needed to lead a complex and values‑driven organisation. Above all, you’ll bring a genuine passion for animal welfare and a commitment to ensuring values remain at the heart of everything we do.

Why join us?

As our Chief Executive Officer, you will lead a dedicated team, steward an organisation with strong foundations, and be at the forefront of shaping a more compassionate future for animals across Devon. This is more than a leadership role - it’s a chance to create lasting impact.

How to apply

Please submit your CV and a supporting statement (maximum two pages) outlining how your experience, leadership and values make you the right person to become our next Chief Executive Officer.

Application deadline: Tuesday 7 April, 5pm

We encourage applications from leaders who are motivated by purpose, committed to impact and inspired by the opportunity to shape the future of Little Valley Animal Shelter.

#Chief Executive Officer #Chief Executive #CEO #Chief Executive Officer

For over 30 years, we’ve pioneered the use of beekeeping as a sustainable development tool, helping communities across Africa escape poverty while protecting biodiversity. Now we’re ready to scale our impact significantly — growing from £900K to £1.4M income within three years and expanding to new locations using our proven model.

The Opportunity:
This is a rare chance to lead a mission-driven organisation with huge potential. You’ll work with influential patrons including The Queen, Monty Don, Martha Kearney, Kate Humble, and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, all ready to actively support our ambitious goals. You’ll manage a talented team of seven and work alongside seven committed trustees.

What we’re looking for:
We need a leader who

• Is genuinely passionate about environmental sustainability and poverty alleviation
• Can develop and execute ambitious fundraising strategies, including corporate partnerships and major donor relationships
• Brings financial acumen and strategic planning experience
• Enjoys managing and developing people—our small team is excellent and is keen to welcome great leadership
• Thrives on networking and relationship-building, actively seeking opportunities
• Is comfortable being the external face of the organisation with donors, corporates, and partners
• Has senior leadership experience (ideally in the third sector, though we welcome strong leaders from any sector)

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead strategic planning and organisational growth in partnership with the Board
• Act as chief fundraiser and spokesperson, personally engaging with high-level donors
• Develop corporate partnerships and ESG opportunities
• Manage and inspire our team of seven, fostering a culture of excellence
• Oversee a ~£1M+ budget and ensure strong financial management
• Deepen relationships with international partners in Ethiopia, Ghana, Uganda and beyond
• Build BfD’s profile and brand visibility

What we offer:

• Salary of £65,000-£70,000 (negotiable based on experience)
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Pension (flexible package)
• Hybrid working possible with minimum 3 days in our Monmouth office (important for team collaboration and partner engagement)
• The chance to lead a respected organisation through an exciting growth phase
• Opportunity to make a real difference to communities and biodiversity worldwide

Timeline:
Application deadline: 13th April 2026

Bees for Development is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace.

We are looking for a new CEO to lead Surrey Community Action into a bright and exciting future, where the voluntary sector and communities of Surrey are helped to survice and thrive.

Surrey Community Action

Chief Executive Officer

35 hours per week, mostly office based but with some scope for working remotely.

Based in Burpham, Guildford, Surrey

The role is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.

£62,000 for a 35-hour week

5% employers pension contribution

25 days annual leave plus three days over Christmas

Employee Assistance Programme

About Surrey Community Action

Surrey Community Action supports Surrey’s voluntary sector, the diverse communities of Surrey, and other organisations who seek to work with either. We ensure that non-voluntary sector stakeholders understand the value of our sector and how to work together to achieve shared objectives. We provide services to Surrey’s voluntary sector that increase their effectiveness or fill gaps in their capability, capacity, and resilience. Services to the Surrey’s Communities and we provide services directly to Surrey’s communities that support community action and address unsupported needs.

About The Role

We are seeking a new Chief Executive to join us at an ideal time to complete and implement our emerging new strategy and direct Surrey Community Action into a bright future.

As Chief Executive Officer, you will have the scope and authority to shape strategy, influence policy, empower Surrey’s voluntary sector, and champion rural communities, working closely with a committed Board, and experienced staff team.

You will be the organisation’s lead ambassador, building trusted relationships with partners, funders and decision‑makers, and ensuring the organisation’s voice is heard at local, regional and national level.

You will also play a critical role in leading change and transformation within the charity - strengthening systems, diversifying income and evolving how the organisation works so it remains resilient, relevant and impactful in a fast‑changing environment.

This is a role for someone who enjoys balancing big‑picture thinking with practical delivery, and who can bring people with them through periods of transition.

If you are motivated to improve the capability, capacity and resilience of the Surrey’s voluntary sector, communities and residents; if you thrive in complex and changing stakeholder environments; and if you are excited by the challenge of leading an organisation through its next phase of growth and influence, this role is for you.

No two days will be the same, but there are some core parts of this role.

• Strategic Leadership & Organisational Direction
• You will lead the delivery of a clear, compelling organisational strategy, adapting it in response to an evolving operating environment and ensuring the organisation remains agile, future‑focused and well positioned within the voluntary and community sectors.
• Board Partnership & Governance
• You will work collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, providing high‑quality insight, advice and assurance on strategy, finance, risk, governance and compliance, and then supporting effective Board decision‑making through clear reporting, analysis and professional guidance.
• Leadership of People & Culture
• You will lead, inspire and support the staff team through a transparent, inclusive and empowering management style, creating a high‑performance culture rooted in trust, accountability, equality, diversity and wellbeing.
• Change Management & Organisational Development
• You will be a skilled change manager, leading transformation in response to evolving funding landscapes, policy shifts, technology and community needs, designing and implementing systems, structures and processes that strengthen organisational effectiveness and resilience.
• Ambassadorial Role, Advocacy & External Relations
• You will be the public face of the organisation, representing it with credibility, passion and authority, and building strong, influential relationships with funders, partners, policymakers, communities and stakeholders.

About You

The purpose of the Chief Executive Officer’s role is to guide and plan the strategic development and overall direction of the organisation, providing strong leadership and co-ordination to ensure the aims, strategic objectives and priorities of the organisation are achieved.

To do this, we need someone who embodies the following attributes, skills and experience.

You will have:

• Senior leadership experience within a voluntary, community, public or values‑led organisation, with accountability for strategy, performance and resources.
• Proven experience of working effectively with a Board or trustees
• Demonstrable success in leading and managing organisational change, including restructuring, service development or cultural transformation.
• Experience in fundraising, income generation and business development
• Experience of financial leadership, including budgeting, financial planning, income generation and managing funding agreements or contracts.
• A strong track record of external engagement, partnership working and representation at senior level.
• People management experience, supporting a compact team delivering diverse projects.
• Excellent communication skills (including social media) and governance literacy.
• It will be a distinct advantage to have familiarity with Local Government Reorganisation and devolution, ideally in a county like Surrey.

You will be:

• Motivated, motivating and dynamic
• An effective communicator (including social media) with good network contacts, especially in the VCSE sector and across local government
• A strong team builder, able to develop, encourage and support colleagues in making the most of their experience and skillsets and to feel confident in their abilities
• A visionary leader who is able to embrace and manage change through strategic creativity and innovation, while also able to pay attention to detail when necessary.
• Ideally, you will also be able to demonstrate understanding of charity governance, compliance and safeguarding.
• Calm and confident under pressure with an evidence-based approach to prioritising finite resources.

These attributes, skills and experience will make you stand out, but even if you do not match all the criteria below, we still want to hear about you and what you can offer.

The Nuts and Bolts

The role is a permanent contract for 35 hours per week, mostly office based but with some scope for working remotely.

Our offices are in Guildford, Surrey

We are committed to continued professional development and will support you to develop your skills even further.

The role is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.

The salary for this post is £62,000 for a 35-hour week.

We also offer:

• 5% employers pension contribution
• Employee Assistance Programme
• 25 days holiday with an additional three days between Christmas and New Year, as well as all English Bank Holidays

We can only accept applications from candidates with the right to work in the UK.

Catalyst is looking to recruit an exceptional leader to be our next Chief Executive.

Candidates should be values-driven, with a passion for leading an organisation which supports the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector (VCSE). As Chief Executive, you must have the skills and experience to lead the dedicated, professional staff and volunteers in developing our services based on the needs of the sector, fulfilling the requirements of our funders, and actively seeking other opportunities for partnership work with statutory, private and VCSE partners.

The successful candidate will combine strategic and operational skills and have experience of effective leadership, including facilitating change in this sector. The role is offered at a salary of £51,500, plus pension and 28 days holiday a year.

You can find out more information and how to apply at Catalyst Chief Executive – Catalyst Stockton

African Revival is a small, passionate charity based in Surrey. For more than 20 years we have been dedicated to building schools and improving access to education for children in some of the most disadvantaged communities in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Our vision is an Africa where every child has equal access to quality education, as we believe education is the key to overcoming poverty. Since 2005, we have worked with over 300 primary and nursery schools in Uganda, South Sudan and (until recently) Zambia, to allow over 120,000 children to fulfil their potential. We don’t just provide infrastructure; we empower whole communities — pupils, teachers, and parents — to transform schools into thriving learning environments that build brighter, better futures.

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Executive Director to lead and grow African Revival. This is an opportunity for a hands-on charity leader to strengthen our operations and governance, build sustainable income through fundraising and partnerships, and help expand our impact for children and communities.

Key responsibilities

• Governance & operations: ensure statutory and other reporting requirements are met in the UK and overseas; establish and maintain appropriate policies and procedures; manage day-to-day organisational administration; coordinate and attend Board and committee meetings and prepare papers.
• Leadership & stakeholder management: build and maintain close working relationships with UK and in-country staff, volunteers, trustees, donors and partners; champion a positive, inclusive culture. Help shape the charity’s strategic growth and long-term sustainability
• Finance oversight: uphold rigorous financial controls in partnership with the Finance Manager; support budgeting and forecasting (e.g., cashflow, movement in funds, in-country budgets); approve expenditure and monitor budget versus actuals, keeping the Treasurer and trustees appropriately informed.
• Fundraising & external relations: lead the coordination and delivery of key fundraising activity (including major events such as our annual Ball and Golf Day); research and submit applications to trusts and foundations; act as a public representative and ambassador for African Revival.
• Programme support & impact: work with UK and in-country teams to identify priorities, design and cost activities, and monitor progress and impact; strengthen monitoring, evaluation and learning so we can evidence outcomes and continuously improve.
• Communications: oversee communications and reporting to donors and stakeholders, and support an engaging online presence across our website and social channels.

About you

Essential

• Senior leadership experience (in a charity, social enterprise, or non-profit organisation preferred but not essential).
• Proven ability to build and deliver fundraising activity (events, trusts & foundations, major donors and/or corporate partnerships).
• Strong operational and governance capability, including working effectively with a Board of Trustees.
• Sound financial oversight skills, with the ability to understand budgets, forecasts and financial controls.
• Excellent communication skills—able to represent African Revival credibly with donors, partners and stakeholders.
• Highly organised, hands-on and comfortable working in a small team with competing priorities.
• Commitment to safeguarding and to creating an inclusive, respectful working environment.

Desirable

• Experience in international development and/or working with partners in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Experience strengthening monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL/MEAL) and using impact evidence to improve programmes.
• Confidence using digital tools (including CRM, Microsoft 365 and social media) and interest in using AI responsibly to improve productivity.
• Willingness to undertake occasional overseas travel for monitoring and donor engagement.

This role offers the chance to play a leading part in creating educational opportunities for children who need them most—working with a committed Board, a dedicated UK team and experienced in-country colleagues.

African Revival is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. Appointment will be subject to appropriate pre-employment checks. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to equal opportunities. Applicants must be resident and have Right to Work in the UK.

Liverpool Arab Arts Festival (LAAF) is the UK’s leading celebration of Arab arts and cultures. We are a small team that delivers huge impact - rooted in Liverpool’s communities yet connected to artists and audiences across the world. Our work is grounded in representation, collaboration, and exchange, bringing Arab creativity and perspectives to the heart of the UK’s cultural landscape.

As Chief Executive Officer, you will lead this unique organisation through a pivotal period of transition and renewal. Working closely with the Board, staff team, freelance workers, artists, communities and partners, you will provide strategic, financial, artistic and cultural leadership - ensuring that LAAF continues to thrive in an increasingly complex political, social, and financial climate. This is a deeply rewarding role that calls for someone who is rigorous, transparent, and community-minded; someone who understands both the practical challenges of running an arts organisation and a live festival, year-round events and engagement projects, and the responsibility of representing communities whose stories matter.

The ideal candidate will be ready to immerse themselves in the relationships and networks that keep LAAF alive, and to lead with creativity, care, and conviction.

Chief Executive Officer

Paul’s Place
Yate, South Gloucestershire (Hybrid – minimum 3 days onsite)
£65,000 | Full-time (35 hours per week) | Permanent

After 30 years of impact — and with a new purpose-built Hub — Paul’s Place is ready for its next chapter.

Following the retirement of our CEO, we are seeking an exceptional charity CEO to guide us into an ambitious future — expanding services, strengthening partnerships and ensuring more disabled adults can live life to the full.

About Paul’s Place

Paul’s Place is a respected South West charity supporting physically disabled adults to connect with others, build confidence and participate fully in society.

From our fully accessible Hub in Yate, we deliver:

• A specialist Day Opportunity Service
• Evening and social programmes
• Short breaks
• Vocational skills training
• Step Ahead transition support
• Inclusive sports activities

We are financially secure, with strong reserves and a diverse funding base. Our new Hub — developed in collaboration with our members — positions us strongly for thoughtful, sustainable growth.

Disabled people are at the heart of everything we do. We are disability-led, needs-led and committed to achieving excellence.

The Opportunity

As Chief Executive Officer, you will provide both strategic and operational leadership to a well-established, values-driven organisation.

The Chief Executive Officer will work closely with the Board of Trustees to deliver our strategy and shape the next phase of development, while ensuring robust governance, strong financial management and continued income growth.

The Chief Executive Officer will lead and develop a committed Senior Leadership Team, build influential relationships with commissioners and partners, and raise the profile of Paul’s Place locally and nationally.

This is a visible role requiring someone equally comfortable in the boardroom and engaging directly with members.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking an experienced charity leader with:

• CEO leadership experience within the voluntary sector
• A strong track record in income generation and contract negotiation
• Experience of working constructively with Trustees to deliver strategy
• Strong financial oversight experience
• Knowledge of governance, safeguarding and regulatory compliance
• Experience leading organisational growth
• Understanding of health and social care commissioning

A genuine commitment to disability inclusion and empowering disabled adults is essential.

Further Information

For full details of the role, responsibilities, person specification and our strategic priorities, please download the Recruitment Pack.

The pack provides comprehensive information about Paul’s Place, our services, financial position, governance structure and ambitions for the future.

We strongly encourage candidates to review it before applying.

Terms

Salary: £65,000
Location: Paul’s Place Hub, Shire Way, Yate, Bristol BS37 8YS
Hybrid working (minimum three days onsite)
28 days annual leave + bank holidays
5% matched pension contribution

Closing date for applications: Thursday 2nd April 2026
Shortlisting: Wednesday 8th April 2026
Interviews: Week commencing Monday 13th April 2026
(Interviews are likely to take place on Thursday 16th April 2026
at Paul’s Place Hub)
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