Chief executive jobs

Project Possible exists to tackle dependency and build resilient communities around the world.

If you are a passionate Christian leader with a deep commitment to sustainable, holistic international development, this is your opportunity to lead a well-established charity at a pivotal moment. As we navigate both challenge and opportunity, we remain determined to sustaining and strengthening our mission for the future.

Project Possible is entering a crucial phase of strategic implementation. As a small Christian charity, we are seeking an exceptional individual to lead us in building organisational longevity. This is an opportunity to play a vital role in shaping the future of our charity and ensuring the communities we work with are being empowered to create opportunities for generations to come.

As the Chief Executive, you’ll be steering a committed and highly-motivated organisation that develops with dignity at its heart, collaborates with local Christian-led organisations to build small, sustainable projects, and empowers our partners to grow their self-reliance.

Central to your role will be the effective implementation of our strategy, the growth and strengthening of our UK supporter base, and the development of our long-term financial and operational sustainability.

We welcome applications from experienced senior leaders who can serve as an inspiring ambassador to our UK community and build trusted relationships with high-net-worth individuals and churches. You will possess financial acumen and the ability to establish healthy and enduring relationships with cross-cultural partners.

To find out more, please see our CEO Recruitment Pack.

The post is subject to an occupational requirement that the postholder be a practising Christian under Part 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010 (in the UK).

All applicants should have the right to work permanently in the UK. Employment will be subject to receipt of satisfactory references and a DBS check.

The role is based in High Wycombe and is hybrid, including some UK and international travel. It is a 36.5-hour week with flexibility to work some evenings and weekends.

The closing date for applications is 26th March 2026. We anticipate inviting some applicants for interview via Teams during the week commencing 13th April 2026, followed by a second interview in person for those who are successful, in the week commencing 27th April 2026.

Job Title:EA to the Chief Executive

Salary: £34,458 - £44,500 per annum

Hours:Full Time,37.5

Contract Type: Permanent

Location:Guildford/Hampton,TW12 3RA

About Shooting Star Children’s Hospices

We have an exciting opportunity for a Executive Assistant to CEO to join our team at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices provides specialist care and support to families who have a baby, child or young person with a life-limiting condition, or who have been bereaved. Rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, we support families across Surrey, north-west London and south-west London from diagnosis to end of life and throughout bereavement with a range of nursing, practical, emotional and medical care.

At the heart of what we do are our dedicated staff; their exceptional commitment and professionalism mean every family has the opportunity to make every moment count.

It’s a great time to join Shooting Star Children’s Hospices as we continue to strengthen our services and invest in improvements that will enhance the support we offer to children and families.

About the role

Your key purpose will be to provide high‑level executive and governance support to the CEO, the Directors Team and the Board of Trustees, ensuring they are organised, informed and enabled to perform at their best.

In this pivotal role, you will manage the CEO’s diary and communications, prepare and coordinate key documentation, oversee governance administration, and ensure board and committee meetings run smoothly. You will also act as a key point of contact for Trustees, supporting recruitment, compliance checks, mandatory training, and the distribution of board papers.

You will play a crucial part in keeping the organisation running efficiently by maintaining effective systems, coordinating meetings and minutes, monitoring policy reviews, and assisting with internal and external communications on behalf of the CEO.

About you

This role requires experience in providing high-level executive or PA support within a complex organisation, including managing demanding diaries, handling confidential correspondence, and preparing high-quality papers and minutes. Experience supporting governance, boards or committees would be highly advantageous.

You will also be able to organise and prioritise a varied workload, work independently with minimal supervision, and exercise sound judgement when escalating issues or acting on behalf of the CEO when delegated. You will be an excellent communicator, capable of building effective working relationships with senior leaders, Trustees, staff, and external partners.

You will demonstrate exceptional attention to detail, strong IT skills, and a commitment to maintaining professional standards, confidentiality, and accuracy in all aspects of your work.

Please see the attached job description for more information about this opportunity at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.

What we offer

In return you will receive a competitive salary along with a range of benefits, which include:

Pension scheme

• NHS Pension Scheme (for eligible employees) or our stakeholder pension scheme, with up to 7% employer contributions
  
  Annual leave

• 27 days plus Bank Holidays rising with length of service
• 2 weeks paid sabbatical leave after 5, 10 and 15 years’ service
  
  Contractual benefits

• Generous sick pay scheme
• Enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity leave pay
• Flexible working arrangements
• Death in service benefits
• Reimbursed professional membership fees
• Eye care
• Employee referral scheme
• Blue Light discount card
  
  Health and wellbeing

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Occupational Health
• Mindfulness sessions
• Cycle to work scheme
• Mental Health First Aiders

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Also, we are committed to equal opportunities and consider all applicants to be in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Employment is subject to receipt of satisfactory references and a DBS check.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is committed to inclusion and diversity in everything we do. We know that getting things right is critical for us to live our organisation’s values: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence.

We are always trying to improve our way of working to be more inclusive and equal. Our vision is for Shooting Star Children’s Hospices to be a place where people of all backgrounds, groups and communities feel welcomed to work and volunteer.

Please contact the People Team if you have any questions about this role.

Anticipated Start Date: 04/05/2026

Closing Date: 22/03/2026

Z2K has a clear 2025–2030 strategy and a strong reputation for principled, evidence‑led campaigning rooted in frontline experience. The external environment is volatile: rising poverty, political contestation around welfare and housing, and tightening funding conditions.

After a long‑standing Chief Executive stepped down in late 2025, the organisation has been led by an Interim Chief Executive. The permanent appointment is therefore a moment of consolidation and renewal. The next Chief Executive will provide long‑term stability, sharpen strategic focus and define the organisation’s next phase.

Z2K faces structural pressures common to many charities of this scale: rising costs, reliance on grant funding, growing demand and increasing scrutiny. The Chief Executive must do two things at once:

• Increase measurable impact of our advice services and advocacy work on inadequate incomes and high costs.

• Build a financially resilient, well‑run organisation capable of sustaining that impact.

This is not a figurehead role. It requires leadership with grip, political judgement and commercial realism.

Brainkind exists to ensure that life after brain injury can be a life well lived.

As the UK’s largest not-for-profit provider of specialist brain injury rehabilitation and neurological services, we support more than 750 people each year across our network of hospitals, assessment and rehabilitation centres, and community services in England, Scotland and Wales. With 86% of our services rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’, and a unique integrated pathway from hospital to community, Brainkind is the national leader in specialist brain injury rehabilitation.

We are now seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead Brainkind into its next phase. This is a pivotal moment for the organisation: an opportunity to strengthen financial resilience, sharpen operational alignment, and build on our strong foundations to deliver even greater impact for the people we support.

 Reporting to the Chair and Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive Officer will have full accountability for organisational performance, strategy, and culture. You will lead and develop a committed and experienced Executive Team, ensure the continued delivery of high-quality, person-centred services, and build trusted relationships with commissioners, partners, regulators, and stakeholders across the health and care system.

This role requires a proven executive leader with experience operating at scale within health, social care, or a similarly complex regulated environment. You will bring a strong track record of delivering organisational performance, financial stewardship, and leading organisations through periods of change, growth, or transformation.

Above all, you will be a visible, values-driven leader, able to combine strategic clarity, operational discipline, and commercial judgement with a deep personal commitment to improving the lives of people with brain injuries.

This is an opportunity to lead one of the UK’s most important specialist charities at a time of both challenge and opportunity, and to make a lasting difference to the lives of those we serve. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape the future of specialist brain injury rehabilitation in the UK and lead an organisation with deep expertise, committed staff, and a clear sense of purpose. 

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Salary: £45,068 to £51,242 (Negotiable)

37 hours per week – Flexible throughout the week, including some evenings and weekends

We are seeking to appoint a Chief Executive Officer with a proven commitment to survivor-led practice, outstanding organisational leadership capability, and relevant therapeutic competence, to provide strategic and inspirational leadership for the organisation’s future.

Leeds Survivor Led Crisis Service (LSLCS) exists to provide compassionate, person-centred, trauma-informed crisis support to people across Leeds and West Yorkshire.  Founded in 1999 by individuals with lived experience of mental health crisis, the organisation has grown to deliver a range of services for adults, children and young people while remaining rooted in survivor leadership and empowerment. LSLCS has a long history of innovation and excellence; receiving multiple national awards.

The CEO holds overarching responsibility for the current service provisions, with the support of operational directors and service managers.  LSLCS challenges and shapes current practices; aligned with the needs of those accessing crisis services, with a strong emphasis on gaining and reviewing service user and team feedback to inform decision-making.  The CEO must be able to review feedback openly, regularly and with genuine curiosity in shaping the future of the organisation.

The CEO provides strategic leadership to ensure that LSLCS continues to deliver high-quality, values-led crisis services.  Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO ensures the organisation operates in alignment with its survivor-led ethos, trauma-informed principles, and person-centred philosophy.  The post-holder champions the mission of LSLCS, strengthens its culture, and maintains the organisation’s reputation as a trusted and innovative provider of crisis support.

The CEO must ensure that the organisation’s governance is compliant with Charity Commission requirements, contractual obligations and all other relevant legislation and guidance, and works closely with the Operations Director (Central Services) to ensure the organisation’s financial sustainability and the appropriate, responsible use of its resources.

BID Services is a leading national charity supporting people who are deaf, hard of hearing, sight impaired, severely sight impaired, and those with dual sensory loss. We work alongside clients, their families, and carers to ensure they can access the opportunities, services, and information that matter most. 

We are seeking a strategic, values driven CEO to lead the organisation into its next chapter. This is a hands-on leadership role and you will shape strategy, drive operational excellence, and ensure BID Services continues to grow its impact, reputation, and financial sustainability. 

What you will do 

• Provide visible leadership to the organisation, inspiring and motivating a multi-disciplinary team while fostering a high performing, inclusive, and collaborative culture.

• Translate strategy into action, delivering operational priorities and ensuring services meet the highest standards 

• Take responsibility for financial stability, new business, fundraising, and income generation, and embedding a sustainable funding model 

• Act as the public face of BID Services, influencing the national conversation on sensory impairments, building partnerships, and engaging stakeholders across sectors

• Lead governance, risk management, compliance, safeguarding, and data protection, reporting to the Board and supporting trustees in their responsibilities. 

Who we’re looking for 

• Proven senior leadership experience in the not-for-profit, social, or private sectors, with a track record of delivering strategy, growth, and change 

• Commercial acumen, with experience securing funding, generating income growth, and managing budgets 

• Skilled at partnership building, stakeholder engagement, and influencing policy or national agendas

• Experienced at Board level and able to lead and motivate teams while fostering a strong organisational culture

• Familiarity with working with people with a sensory impairment, those with disabilities or vulnerable adults

• Credible, confident, and collaborative, with the courage to make bold decisions and the energy to drive innovation 

Additional considerations 

• Full time role, requirement to be Midlands-based (Birmingham) typically 3 days per week 

• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, wellbeing, and sustainable practices 

This is an opportunity to lead a respected, impactful organisation where your leadership, vision, and energy will make a real difference in people’s lives. 

Closing date Friday 20 March 2026

Sahir has been on an incredible journey over the past four years. We have grown, strengthened our services and deepened our roots in the communities we serve. We are proud of what has been achieved and excited about what comes next.

Our CEO is stepping on to their next chapter, and we are taking the time to recruit the right permanent leader for what comes next at Sahir. In the meantime, we are looking for an Interim Chief Executive to help keep things steady, support the team and maintain the momentum we have built.

We are looking for someone who leads with empathy and compassion, works in partnership and brings the confidence and drive to support the organisation through a period of change.

About Us

Sahir is the oldest continuously operating LGBTQ+ charity in the Liverpool City Region. We are dedicated to fostering a brighter, healthier future for our communities.

We provide practical and emotional support, camaraderie and connection to:

· LGBTQ+ people

· People living with or affected by HIV

We actively confront injustice, combat discrimination and address inequalities. Through advocacy, partnerships and service delivery, we work to create a fairer and more equitable society for the people we serve. Our work is insight led and co-developed with our communities.

About the Role

This is a key interim leadership role focused on stability, continuity and care for Sahir during a period of transition.

The Interim Chief Executive will work closely with the Board, staff and partners to ensure Sahir continues to deliver safe, effective and person-centred services, maintains strong relationships and remains financially and operationally secure.

The role is not about changing direction. It is about protecting what has been built, supporting the team and helping Sahir move confidently towards the appointment of its next permanent CEO.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking a senior leader who brings:

· Significant leadership experience in the voluntary, community, health, social care or equalities sector.

· Experience working with a Board of Trustees and supporting good governance.

· Strong financial oversight and organisational management experience.

· A calm, steady and values led leadership style.

· The ability to lead people well through transition and uncertainty.

· Strong relationship building skills and a partnership approach.

· Knowledge of issues affecting LGBTQ+ communities, people living with HIV and people seeking asylum is highly desirable.

What It Is Like to Work at Sahir

We want people to enjoy working at Sahir and to feel supported, valued and able to thrive. As a health and wellbeing charity, we place strong emphasis on staff wellbeing, reflective practice and work life balance.

We offer a friendly, inclusive and supportive working environment built on trust, openness and shared purpose.

Equality, Inclusion and Accessibility

Sahir is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age.

Lived experience is valued at Sahir, but it is not a requirement. We are interested in people who share our values and want to contribute positively to our communities.

You do not need to meet every requirement listed to apply. If you feel aligned with our values and excited by the role, we encourage you to apply.

We are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process.

Our vision is of a society where everyone has the opportunity to live a rewarding and fulfilled life.

Are you our next Chief Executive?

• Are you passionate about addressing issues around poverty and inequality?
• Do you have the experience and skills needed to lead this innovative place-based funder?
• Are you a creative thinker who thrives on working collaboratively and collegiately?

If so, then you might be the right person to lead Cripplegate Foundation and Islington Giving.

About Cripplegate Foundation and Islington Giving

Established over 500 years ago, Cripplegate Foundation has become a pioneering, place-based grantmaking foundation with a reputation for innovation and making a difference. It created Islington Giving, which was the first scheme of its kind, to work with residents and a coalition of funders, businesses and voluntary organisations to create better solutions to the challenges of poverty and inequality. We make grants of over £2 million a year and we have become a major influencer in the grant-giving sector, achieving significant progress, such as:

• Raising over £12 million since 2010.
• Partnering with Islington Council to promote community development and support residents
• Developing innovative and participatory grant programmes
• Pushing forward with ambitious Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) goals

It’s an exciting (and challenging) time to join us!

Given the challenges in Islington (and beyond), the next few years promise to be pivotal in shaping our future and there are many opportunities for the new Chief Executive to make a difference, including:

• Leading on considerations around the changing political landscape
• Working creatively and innovatively to explore the strategy for the coming years
• Building on our programme of Social Impact Investing and ethical Investing
• Leading a passionate, professional and committed team

About the role and person 

The new Chief Executive could be someone with senior management experience who is ready to lead an organisation for the first time, or they may already have experience of being a Chief Executive.

Whatever your background you will need to demonstrate, amongst other things:

• Experience of leading and managing in a collaborative and collegiate style
• Skill at creating and delivering cross-sector partnerships
• An entrepreneurial style and a record of income generation
• A deep understanding of the issues arising in inner city areas, gained through lived and/or professional experience
• A pioneering, creative and innovative style and a commitment to DEI

If you feel you fit the role and are motivated by our work then we’d be excited to hear from you. Please find out more by looking at the Candidate Information Pack. 

Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) is an international non-governmental organisation which works to amplify the voices of rural women globally.  We are looking for an Executive Director for our small Central Office team which works with member organisations and individuals in the UK and around the world to ensure that rural women are represented, recognised for their critical importance in society, and have a platform to influence policy makers.  We combine advocacy and small-scale, women-led development projects designed by the local women who will implement them for the benefit of their communities.

This an exciting time to join ACWW in the lead up to our centenary and planning for the 32nd Triennial World Conference in 2029.  We are looking to appoint an Executive Director as our current Executive Director will be retiring this summer.

The successful candidate will be reporting to the Board of Trustees and working with colleagues and trustees to foster relationships, partnerships and collaborations with individuals, funders and networks in line with the Association’s objectives, priorities and values. You will have an important contribution to make in all aspects of the Association.

We are an equal opportunity, disability-confident employer and are dedicated to achieving the highest standards of diversity, equity and inclusion.  We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions and ways of life including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce.

This role is offered as full-time.  If you have successful charity sector experience, ability to build and maintain positive relationships and are looking to work for a charity focused on championing women’s empowerment and advocating for change, we’d like to hear from you. Please see application pack for further details and to apply.

Join a charity rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission and play a central role in our senior leadership team.
This is a rare opportunity to use your finance and people leadership expertise to help shape the future of a well-established, values-driven organisation.

Shared Lives South West delivers long-term and short break care and support across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, enabling people to live fulfilling lives within family homes and communities. We are proud of the quality of our work and the positive, relational culture we have built as an organisation, and we are ambitious about what comes next.

As Deputy Chief Executive, you will join our senior leadership team in a pivotal organisation-wide role leading finance, people and core business functions. Working closely with the Chief Executive and Leadership Team, you will help strengthen financial stewardship, support a thriving and sustainable people culture, and ensure the organisation remains resilient, well-governed and effective.

This is a broad and influential leadership role offering both strategic responsibility and meaningful organisational impact. You will contribute to long-term planning and decision-making, provide leadership depth and continuity, and deputise for the Chief Executive when required.

We are looking for an experienced senior leader with strong organisational finance expertise and a good understanding of people leadership and workforce practice. You may come from the charity, public or wider values-led sector, and you will bring a collaborative, grounded leadership style alongside professional rigour.

For the right candidate, this role offers the opportunity to make a significant contribution to an already high-performing organisation while continuing to grow your own leadership portfolio in a supportive and purpose-driven environment.

For full details and to apply please see Applicant Pack attached. 

Other organisations may refer to roles like this as Deputy CEO, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Finance Director, Director of Finance and Operations, or Executive Director of Corporate Services.

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)
#Chief Executive officer #CEO #Strategy

Strong relationships change lives.

At Relationship Works, we support individuals, couples and families to build healthier, happier relationships and better emotional wellbeing — strengthening communities in the process. As part of the TLC Group, we deliver safe, ethical and high-quality counselling services rooted in compassion and professionalism.

We’re entering an exciting phase of growth and development and are now looking for an Executive Director to lead day-to-day delivery and strengthen our operational foundations.

The Role

This is a senior operational leadership role with meaningful scope and support from the wider TLC Group infrastructure.

You will:

• Lead the day-to-day running of Relationship Works
• Ensure high-quality, safe and ethical clinical practice
• Support the delivery of agreed growth and development plans
• Strengthen financial oversight and manage budgets responsibly
• Improve systems, processes and the client journey
• Support marketing and partnership activity alongside TLC colleagues
• Develop and support a skilled, diverse counselling workforce

You’ll work closely with TLC Group colleagues who lead on strategy, marketing and wider organisational development — giving you the support and structure to focus on excellent service delivery and sustainable operations.

About You

We’re looking for a values-led, people-focused leader with sound judgement and strong operational experience.

You’ll bring:

• Experience of leading teams and managing services
• Financial awareness and confidence working within budgets
• A collaborative leadership style that develops and motivates others
• Emotional intelligence and clear communication
• A commitment to inclusion, safeguarding and high ethical standards

Experience within counselling, health, social care or the charity sector would be advantageous.

The Offer

• Salary: £40,504 – £47,957
• 37 hours per week
• Hybrid working, with time spent at TLC Group offices (various locations across England)
• The opportunity to lead a respected local service with strong group-level support

If you’re motivated by delivering excellent services, supporting talented people and making a tangible difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you.

Application Deadline: 13 March 2026
Interviews expected in Bristol on 20 and 23 March 2026

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) represents over 10,000 members across the UK and beyond, championing excellence in small‑animal veterinary practice through education, science, and community. As the leading membership association for vets working with companion animals, we provide world‑class professional development, publish respected clinical resources, and convene the profession through influential scientific events and networks.

The Association is now at a pivotal moment. We are undergoing a Programme of Change to redefine how BSAVA operates—modernising our systems, transforming member experience, and strengthening our role as a trusted, forward‑looking voice for the profession.

As we approach our 70th anniversary in 2027, we are building an organisation that is more adaptive, more connected, and more responsive to the changing needs of veterinary professionals.

Chief Executive Officer

Quedgeley, Gloucestershire, with hybrid working. Relocation package available.

Circa £110,000 per annum

This is an exciting time for a new Chief Executive to join us and lead BSAVA into its next chapter.

The Opportunity

Working closely with our President, Board, partners, staff, volunteers and our members, the CEO will be the visible voice of BSAVA—shaping our strategy, driving influence across the sector, and ensuring operational excellence. You will own the Programme of Change and lead its successful delivery, strengthening our organisational culture, systems and practices, while ensuring BSAVA continues to thrive as a values‑driven, evidence‑led and member‑centred Association.

The CEO will broaden our reach and impact, champion member value, and strengthen relationships across academia, industry, the wider veterinary profession, and international networks. You will position BSAVA as a modern, relevant, and agile organisation—one that supports veterinary professionals to deliver outstanding care and sustain fulfilling careers.

About You

We are looking for an inspirational and strategic leader who brings:

• A track record of shaping and delivering organisation‑wide strategy and growth at a senior level.
• Experience of leading complex change, with the ability to unite people behind a compelling vision.
• Commercial acumen and an entrepreneurial mindset, with the ability to develop and diversify income streams.
• Outstanding leadership credentials, with the ability to motivate, empower and develop high‑performing teams.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to build trusted relationships across diverse groups.
• Confidence navigating ambiguity, making measured decisions, and driving clarity and focus through times of transformation.

We are open to candidates from all sectors and whilst experience within membership associations or the non‑profit/charity sector is beneficial it is not essential. What matters most is your ability to influence, collaborate, innovate, and champion a profession that plays a vital role in improving the health and welfare of small animals.

How to Apply

For further information, to access the appointment brief and to apply, please visit the Prospectus website. 

If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact our retained advisors Anna Gardet or Erica Ritchie. 

Recruitment Timetable

Deadline for applications: Sunday 29th March 2026
Interviews with Prospectus: 2nd – 13th April 2026
Interviews with BSAVA: w/c 4th May 2026

Chief Executive Officer (Part-time, 3 days/week)

Veterans With Dogs (VWD) is seeking a dynamic and compassionate Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead our charity into its next chapter. This rare and exciting opportunity offers the chance to guide a small, high-impact team at a pivotal stage in the charity’s growth.

Location: Exeter (hybrid with regular office presence required)
Salary: £45,000–£55,000 pro-rata (equivalent to £27,000 - £33,000 for 3 days/week) + 3% pension contribution
Contract: Initial 1 year role with opportunity to extend

Hours: 21 hours / 3 days per week

Holiday: 28 days per annum (FTE), plus bank holidays
Reports to: Chair of Trustees
Direct reports: 4

About Veterans With Dogs

Veterans With Dogs is a UK charity that transforms the lives of Armed Forces veterans living with mental health challenges. Through the provision of highly trained assistance dogs and trauma-informed support, we help restore purpose, independence, and dignity to those who have served.

Founded in 2012, our work addresses a vital gap for veterans living with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and complex trauma. Through our award-winning PALS™ (Partner Animal Life Skills) programme, we help veterans re-engage with life, with the support of a trusted companion by their side.

Following a period of governance transition and renewal, we are entering a new and exciting phase. We are strengthening leadership, systems, and strategy to ensure long-term sustainability and greater reach. As we begin this next chapter, we are seeking an experienced, values-driven CEO to lead us confidently into this next phase.

The Role

The CEO will provide strategic direction, operational oversight, and cultural leadership for Veterans With Dogs. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO will oversee the delivery of the charity’s mission, ensure operational excellence, develop our long-term strategy, and foster a values-led and high-performing team.

This is a hands-on, multi-dimensional leadership role, ideal for a calm, pragmatic, and inspiring individual with experience of organisational stabilisation, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable growth. You will be a visible leader at our base in Exeter, while building strong relationships across the veteran, assistance dog, and wider charity sectors.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

· Lead the development and delivery of an interim plan and longer-term organisational strategy

· Translate strategic goals into clear operational priorities and plans

· Foster a compassionate, inclusive, and mission-aligned organisational culture

· Act as a credible and inspiring ambassador for Veterans With Dogs with stakeholders, funders, partners, and the public

• Guide the charity through stabilisation and values-led, sustainable growth

Governance & Compliance

· Ensure compliance with all relevant charity law, regulation, and best practice

· Work in partnership with the Board of Trustees, supporting effective governance and reporting

· Implement and embed improvements in HR, finance, safeguarding, IT, and operational systems

• Lead on organisational risk management, ensuring policies and procedures are in place and regularly reviewed

Operations & Programme Delivery

· Oversee day-to-day operations to ensure safe, ethical, and effective service delivery

· Ensure safeguarding standards are upheld for both veterans and dogs

· Drive continuous improvement in programme quality, delivery, and impact measurement

• Ensure operational systems and data processes are robust, compliant, and fit for purpose

People & Culture

· Lead, support, and nurture a small, dedicated staff team and wider network of volunteers

· Promote staff wellbeing, clear communication, and professional development

• Work with trustees to assess future staffing needs and build leadership capacity

Finance & Sustainability

· Work with trustees and advisors to ensure sound financial management and reporting

· Contribute to financial planning, budgeting, and development of a sustainable reserves policy

• Help diversify income streams, supporting fundraising efforts, corporate partnerships, and individual giving

Fundraising & External Relations

· Build and maintain relationships with funders, donors, corporate partners, and sector allies

· Collaborate with the fundraising trustee to develop new funding opportunities

· Represent the charity externally with credibility, transparency, and professionalism

• Strengthen partnerships with ADUK, ADI, Cobseo, and other key membership bodies

Person Specification

Essential

· Senior leadership experience within a charity, social enterprise, or values-led organisation

· Strong knowledge of charity governance, regulation, and trustee relationships

· Experience leading teams through organisational change or stabilisation

· Financial literacy with experience of budgeting, reporting, and planning

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across diverse stakeholders

• A calm, values-based, and ethical leadership approach

Desirable

· Experience in health, mental health, veterans’ services, or trauma-informed work

· Experience working with boards during periods of strategic or leadership transition

· Fundraising and/or income generation experience

· Understanding of safeguarding best practice (for people and/or animals)

• Lived experience of the military or charity sectors (not essential)

Our Commitment

Veterans With Dogs is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We actively welcome applicants from all backgrounds and strive to create a supportive, respectful, and empowering workplace. We recognise the value of lived experience and are committed to continuous learning as an organisation.

How to Apply

Apply with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and suitability.

If you would like a confidential conversation before applying, we would be happy to speak with you.

Closing date to apply: Friday 13 March 2026

· First interviews (online): week commencing 16 March 2026

· Second interviews (in our Exeter office): week commencing 23 March 2026 TBC

NO RECRUITERS AT THIS STAGE PLEASE