Chief executive jobs in watford, hertfordshire

About us:

Drinkaware is the UK’s leading alcohol charity with a vision of working together to reduce alcohol harm. We use our expertise to give governments, industry, communities and individuals the knowledge and support to make informed decisions about alcohol and how to reduce the harm it can cause. We deliver public-facing campaigns and digital services, information and guidance, evidence-led advice to governments and industry and independent research, consumer insight and evaluation

The Drinkaware Trust is funded primarily through voluntary, unrestricted donations from alcohol producers, wholesalers, and on- and off-trade retailers, but acts entirely independently

Vision: Working together to reduce alcohol harm across the UK

Mission: Using our expertise to give governments, industry, communities and individuals the knowledge and support to make informed decisions about alcohol and how to reduce the harm it can cause. Delivered though:

• Public-facing campaigns and digital services, information and guidance
• Evidence-led advice to governments and industry
• Independent research, consumer insight and evaluation

Values: Solid Reasoning; Clarity with Empathy; Understanding and Connecting; Principled Partnership; Determination and Curiosity

Our Drinkaware staff team is friendly, professional and inclusive.  We care about what we do and how we work together and bring our values to life.  Drinkaware invests in staff development through regular one to one meetings, a generous individual training budget, teatime tutorials and staff awaydays, and an annual learning and wellbeing grant. 

Location: 35 Chiswell St, London EC1Y 4SE

Drinkaware’s benefits include:

• Hybrid working arrangements
• 30 days leave (plus Bank Holidays, and your birthday)
• Matched company pension scheme
• Life assurance cover
• BUPA Private Healthcare
• Training and development opportunities
• Employee assistance programme
• Annual learning and wellbeing grant
• Perks and discount platform. 

_____________________________________________________________________________

About the role:

Reporting to the Head of Operations and working collaboratively with other senior managers, the Senior Project Manager will play a crucial role in ensuring the successful delivery of all operational projects in line with cost/time/quality requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• To support the implementation of the new project management approach for Drinkaware.

• Day to day project management from start to finish for key identified operational projects, supporting cross functional teams to deliver.

• Collaborating with colleagues to ensure effective evaluation and impact assessment of each programme.

• Maintain accurate and comprehensive project and programme management documentation.

Project Delivery

• Manage multiple large-scale projects that require strategic planning and stakeholder management.

• Resource Management – Oversee and ensure all projects have the right resource allocation and are managing budgets and tracking progress against key milestone.

• Risk Management - Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to keep projects on track.

• Work in collaboration to scope, plan and coordinate project activities with clearly defined objectives, outputs and critical success factors for operational projects.

• Proactively address issues and challenges that may arise during project execution.

• Ensure proactive and effective project communications to all relevant parties (internally and externally).

• Project collateral and content development.

Strategic Planning & Evaluation

• Implement and maintain quality standards throughout the programme lifecycle.

• Conduct regular evaluations to ensure programme effectiveness.

• Analyse programme performance and identify lessons learned and areas for improvement.

Stakeholder & Team Collaboration

• Stakeholder management including engagement, ongoing programme review, contractual management.

• Working with the Programme Delivery officer to develop and deploy effective and efficient project management tools and processes.

Governance & Process

• Working with the Programme Delivery officer to develop and deploy effective and efficient project management tools and processes.

• Implement and maintain quality standards throughout the programme lifecycle.

_____________________________________________________________________________

About you:

You will be an accomplished project manager, with a high degree of business acumen and substantial experience of setting up and delivering projects working with and through multiple stakeholders and partners. This position requires a methodical thinker with excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills and a proven track record in project management and reporting. Providing rigorous operational support and programme administration as needed.

Essential Criteria / Key Skills:

A recognised project management qualification and/or significant experience of managing multiple projects within the charity or health sector.

• Experience of effectively collaborating with multiple stakeholders.
• Demonstrable success of working with a broad range of partners from acquisition through to implementation.
• Strong presentation skills.
• Experience of writing clear, concise, project status reports and accurately maintaining project documentation.
• Ability to work on your own and take initiative.
• Excellent inter-personal and communication skills with the ability to build rapport and trust with partners at all levels.
• Ability to multitask and support cross functional teams to deliver.
• Attention to detail and foreplaning.
• Experience of a broad range of software packages including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and project management tools.
• Strong analytical skills and presentation of data.
• Experience providing administrative support.
• Able to manage sensitive conversations with professionalism and care and resilient when under pressure.
• An energetic and committed ambassador for Drinkaware, our mission and values

_____________________________________________________________________________

To apply

For further information please refer to the attached job description, our applicant privacy policy and read more about Drinkaware on our website.

Closing date: 9am, Wednesday 20 August 2025

Apply for this post by clicking on the 'Apply' link.  You should submit an up-to-date CV and a brief covering letter (maximum two pages) that outlines how you meet the requirements outlined in the 'About You' section and what you would bring to Drinkaware. Please include at least one examples of a complex project you've managed from initiation to delivery.

Interviews may be carried out on Teams or in person at our Moorgate offices.

Drinkaware is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds and sections of the community. 

No agency support is required

Prospectus is supporting a London focused grant givng organisation in the search for a Director of Development. This organisation exist to improve the lives of the most disadvantaged people in London by working with donors to invest in small, local charities and community groups. They empower local community organisations and leaders to identify their needs and solutions and connect these groups with funders, distribute resources, and help increase their impact. Additionally, they promote the value of local organisations, encourage philanthropy, and build relationships between communities and funders, and have given £127 million in grants to grassroot organisations in London since 2010.

Director of Development

Permanent

circa £75,000 FTE

London with hybrid working 1 day per week

   

The Director of Development will be responsible for developing and achieving the organisation's income strategy, with particular focus on developing, prospecting, and building relationships with high value donors, corporates, financial advisors, and wealth management. As part of the Senior Leadership Team, this role will be a strategic Director, whilst also leading on key donor facing relationships. This role will be critical to leading and executing successful engagement strategies for both internal and external stakeholders, with the support of a small team of two.

The successful candidate will be able to evidence setting strategy and delivering successful high value income generation growth. This person will be able to demonstrate identifying and securing gifts of a six-figure plus level. They will have a proven track record of developing and maintaining strategic senior networks. This person will have managed other team members before and be a strong communicator with other senior internal stakeholders and external donors.

   

Application information

Closing date for completed applications is midday on 24th August.

   

To apply

To apply for the role please upload your CV together with a supporting statement (of no more than 2 pages) onto the Prospectus website via the link below.

Prospectus is committed to providing equality of opportunity and welcome candidates from a diverse range of backgrounds. For all job opportunities and progression, job applicants and employees will receive equal treatment regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. If you have any disability and would like assistance with completing an application, then please contact Rhiannon Mehta at Prospectus on      

If you feel you meet some of the criteria but not all, we really hope you'll enquire and learn more. Prospectus can advise and support on each part of the role and hopefully your application, so we look forward to hearing from you.

Join the British Society for Heart Failure, a mission-driven charity at an exciting stage of growth. We're building a new team and strategy to improve care for people living with heart failure across the UK. 

This is a flexible and varied role in a small, fast-paced team. You’ll support events, campaigns, communications, and partnerships — making a real impact every day. 

Contract: Part-time 0.6 FTE/21 hours pw. Initial one year contract with possible extension or permanent post thereafter 

Flexible work pattern: 21 hours pw, spread over 2–5 days  

Location: Hybrid, with twice a month London meetings 

Salary: £30,000 FTE (£18,000 for 0.6 FTE) 

Are you an organised, motivated, and versatile professional looking for a varied and mission-driven role? 

Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment and want to make a meaningful difference? 

About Us 

The British Society for Heart Failure (BSH) is the leading UK charity dedicated to improving care for people living with heart failure. Our work supports education, research, collaboration, and national awareness — all aimed at improving outcomes for the nearly 1 million people in the UK living with this serious condition. 

We’re at an exciting stage of growth, with a new team, a new strategy in development, and bold plans for the future. This is a great time to join us and be part of a small, ambitious, and supportive team driving real impact. 

About the Role 

As our Project Support Officer, you’ll play a vital role in supporting the delivery of our events, campaigns (such as our national 25in25 initiative), educational activities, and stakeholder communications. 

This is a varied hybrid role offering great flexibility and the opportunity to work across multiple areas including: 

• Event and webinar coordination 

• Member and partner communications 

• Website and content updates 

• Committee and meeting administration 

• General organisational support 

You’ll be trusted to manage your time, contribute ideas, and help keep our operations running smoothly. 

We’re Looking for Someone Who: 

• Is highly organised and detail-oriented 

• Has experience in admin, events, or communications roles 

• Is a team player who can also work independently 

• Communicates professionally and clearly 

• Is adaptable, curious, and ready to get involved from day one 

Bonus if you’ve worked in a charity, membership body, or health-related field - but not essential. 

What We Offer: 

• Flexible working across 2–5 days per week and a Flexitime Scheme

• 30 days annual leave plus 3 days Christmas closure

• Hybrid model with minimal in-person time (2 days/month in London) 

• Supportive team culture and a role where your input really matters 

• The chance to contribute to a mission that improves lives 

Ready to Apply?  Be part of something meaningful. 

 Timeline:

Closing date: 15 August 2025 

Shortlisting: 20 August 2025 

Task Preparation: 26 August to 1st September 2025 

Interviews: 2 September 2025 

Feel free to share or tag someone who might be a great fit. 

 #CharityJobs #ProjectSupport #HeartFailureAwareness #HybridJobs #FlexibleWorking #Careers #Recruitment #Marketing  #Events 

Sense International are currently recruiting for a Fundraising Officer to join their Fundraising team. This permanent opportunity will work on hybrid basis from our office in King's Cross, London, working 37.5 hours per week.

The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering and growing income to support the charity’s mission. Working closely with the Senior Trusts Funding Manager, you will help implement fundraising plans across multiple income streams, including trusts and corporate foundations, events and individual giving.

As a key member of the Fundraising Team, you will work closely and collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation, including programmes, communications and finance. Your excellent communication and relationship-building skills will be essential as you identify and assess partnership opportunities and ensure these are effectively passed to the relevant fundraising leads for cultivation and development as well as having ownership yourself in developing a portfolio of donors.

Key Responsibilities

• Prospecting and researching new trusts and corporate donors who align with Sense International’s mission and can support our work.
• Writing compelling grant applications and proposals to new potential donors.
• Working with the programmes team and Senior Trusts Manager to draft compelling funding reports for donors.
• Track and report on income, KPIs, and donor engagement activity.
• Support the delivery of our Big Give fundraising campaign to grow income and individual donor engagement.
• Manage our small group of eventers including London and Paris Marathons.
• Work with colleagues across fundraising, communications, programme delivery and finance to ensure consistent messaging and reporting.
• Supporting with other adhoc duties that may arise as requested by the CEO and Associate Director, including supporting other members of the Sense International team.

Manage an unrestricted annual mailing to small trusts and foundations to secure target 

Key skills and experience

• Experience in a fundraising, communications, or marketing role.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Demonstration of developing excellent proposals, reports and supporter communications.
• Excellent organisation and prioritisation skills.
• Ability to use own initiative.
• Be able to communicate and work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders and colleagues
• Ability to operate in a fast paced, multi-stakeholder environment – comfortable working across a diverse range of issues and campaigns simultaneously. 

For a full job description and person specification, please see the link on the left hand side of the page.

About Sense International

Sense International is the only international non-governmental organisation dedicated to supporting people with deafblindness and their families around the world. Sense International supports programmes in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Romania, Peru, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. 

The Sense International team provides strategic leadership to the Sense International global family and supports global programmes and fundraising in addition to day-to-day support on operations including finance and human resources. Additionally, the Director of Sense International is line manager to the Regional Director of East Africa, who overseas programmes and operations in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania and she also line manages the Director of Sense International Romania and the Director of Sense International Peru.  The Director of Sense International also sits on the boards of Sense International Kenya, Sense International Uganda, Sense International Tanzania, Sense International Romania and Sense International Peru. 

To apply

Please use the link below to complete your application. Managers will use your application to shortlist candidates for interview; in relation to the Personal Specification. Therefore, it is very important you complete this section thoroughly.  We would recommend that you read the job description and person specification before applying.

Please note to avoid disappointment, we advise you to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close posts at any time.

No agency submissions please: any submissions without prior authorisation from the Sense Recruitment Team will be treated as our own and as such no fee will be payable.

Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of employment, where appropriate, are subject to a DBS check; level dependent on the nature of the role.

For this role we particularly welcome applications from candidates from underrepresented ethnic minority backgrounds and candidates with disabilities. Sense is committed to equality of opportunity, and to promoting and celebrating the diversity of staff, volunteers and the people we work with. Everyone's contribution is valued and we ensure they're given the opportunity to realise their potential. We welcome applications from talented people from all sections of the community who share our values and belief that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential.

Are you passionate about people with lived experience of the justice system being at the forefront of its ongoing design and improvement? Do you want to play a pivotal role in successfully promoting and raising funds for our charity that puts lived experience front and centre of its leadership, operations and influencing work?

User Voice is a pioneering charity that works with people with convictions to support and develop their confidence, skills and mindsets. They then deliver our programmes to many more people who are impacted by the criminal justice system.

80% of our staff have convictions, meaning we’ve been there – in court, in prison, or on probation – we own our own pasts, so we understand the challenges first hand and use our own lived expertise to inform everything we do.

This exciting role will involve coordinating communications to promote our work and engage stakeholders, and assisting in the development and implementation of plans to secure financial support for the charity, by aligning fundraising and communication strategies.

Every second of every day, London’s Air Ambulance delivers rapid response and cutting-edge medical care to save lives in the city. Critical injury can happen to anyone, at any time and we are bring the hospital emergency department to the scene, delivering life-saving treatment to the 10 million people who live and work in London. 

This is a unique role based at The Royal London Hospital supporting our clinical and operational colleagues with the smooth running of our Helipad. It is a fast-paced support role in a busy emergency environment with competing priorities. Reporting to the Helipad Operations Manager, the role works closely with the London Air Ambulance operations and clinical teams.   

Crucially you will support with the maintenance of the emergency vehicles ensuring they are mission ready at all times, while managing the stock of medical equipment and supporting with general operations and administration.  

We are looking for an enthusiastic and energetic person to join the team. You’ll have significant experience in an operational / administrative role and hold strong organisational and communication skills. A good understanding of patient confidentially is essential for the role and a background in a clinical environment and/or the charity sector is advantageous.

Essential requirements of this role are to have a full UK driving licence (maximum of 3 penalty points), be a minimum of 21 years of age and be a confident driver. 

Help build and diversity our income streams, and support the fundraising skills of the VCSE in Hammersmith & Fulham.

The post holder will be responsible for raising funds for Sobus from community fundraising, grants/trusts and developing other key income streams: major donors, regular giving and corporate.

The postholder will also provide information, support and guidance to Hammersmith & Fulham based VCSE organisations on fundraising activities.

The post holder will hold a strategic over view of Sobus’s fundraising needs and be a key player in the charity’s communications and marketing.

Your main duties will be to develop and manage our fundraising strategy, identify potential funding sources and create persuasive, winning funding applications and proposals.

You will also develop and deliver beginner level fundraising workshops for local micro and newly established VCS organisations, and provide help local VCSE organisations develop their fundraising strategies and funding applications

Location: Hybrid / London
Contract type: Permanent
Salary: circa £75,000 FTE
 
Job Advert
 
The London Community Foundation (LCF) exist to improve the lives of the most disadvantaged people in London by working with donors to invest in small, local charities and community groups. LCF empower local community organisations and leaders to identify their needs and solutions and connect these groups with funders, distribute resources, and help increase their impact. Additionally, LCF promote the value of local organisations, encourage philanthropy, and build relationships between communities and funders, and have given £127 million in grants to grassroot organisations in London since 2010.
 
The Director of Development will be responsible for developing and achieving LCF’s income strategy, with particular focus on developing, prospecting, and building relationships with high value donors, corporates, financial advisors, and wealth management. As part of the Senior Leadership Team, this role will be a strategic Director, whilst also leading on key donor facing relationships. This role will be critical to leading and executing successful engagement strategies for both internal and external stakeholders, with the support of a small team of two.
 
The successful candidate will be able to evidence setting strategy and delivering successful high value income generation growth. This person will be able to demonstrate identifying and securing gifts of a six-figure plus level. They will have a proven track record of developing and maintaining strategic senior networks. This person will have managed other team members before and be a strong communicator with other senior internal stakeholders and external donors.
 
To apply for the role please submit your CV together with a supporting statement (of no more than 2 pages).
 
REF-223124

In the UK, in areas of disadvantage, up to 40% of children do not reach a good level of development by the age of 5. Our client’s vision is of a society that cherishes children’s development in the early years, where every child can thrive and achieve their full potential.

Using a collective impact approach, the organisation is driving and supporting collaboration between funders, the public, private and the voluntary sector to improve outcomes in the early years. Listening to the voice, and harnessing the power of parents, carers and families in local communities is central to the change that Thrive and Five seeks to make.

In just four years, our client’s work is making a difference, with positive progress of children who’ve had the benefit of the charity’s pilot programme.  The impact of our work was recognised in Parliament as the Secretary for State delivered the Best Start in Life Strategy and the charity was  invited to share our public/voluntary sector partnership model at the Government’ Summit to launch the Civil Society Covenant. The Department for Education is interested to see how our approach aligns with their mission to help 75% of children reach a Good Level of Development by 2028. 

Director 

North East, working in person in Teesside three days a week 

Up to £85,000, dependent on experience

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader, with a passion for giving children the best possible start and with a strong belief in the power of communities. The role will work both locally and nationally, as part of the wider team. 

The Director will manage our client’s existing programme in Redcar and Cleveland with a talented and committed team (10 staff). They will also develop and manage the new programme in Middlesbrough, currently in Discovery phase, and recruit a staff team of 8- 10 people, with support from the charity’s central team.  Once set up, the Director will lead the following across both areas: 

• Building relationships and networks in the areas, across the public, voluntary and private sector 

• Leading the team to support delivery of the charity's local early years strategy in the areas

• Leading the delivery of a portfolio of complementary workstreams, continuously refining and strengthening the work so that we make the greatest possible positive difference to local children and families 

• Working closely with local partners and the national team to ensure that data and learning is captured and fed into strategic thinking and our national model 

Supported by our central team, the Director will enable local stakeholders to collectively support parents and children under 5, to improve outcomes in the early years and particularly improve levels of school readiness. Crucial to this work will be engaging with and empowering local parents who are the key to successful delivery of the initiative.

This is an exciting opportunity for an impact focussed leader, who brings: 

• Experience of working at a senior level with public sector and/or voluntary organisations involved in the delivery of services and support to families with children under 5 

• A track record of implementing concurrent and complex workstreams effectively, with proven project management and evaluation skills 

• Experience at leading and developing staff teams

• Experience of building networks of solid relationships with a wide range of stakeholders

You will relish the opportunity to deliver a model that ensures strength in communities, achieves long term sustainability and aims to achieve long-term systemic improvements in early childhood development. 

We are committed to inclusion in all aspects of our work and our new Director will have the ability to collaborate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures and nurture differing views. They will work sensitively with the changing needs of our communities and be comfortable talking about the importance of inclusion to a range of audiences. 

Recruitment Timetable

Closing date:  Sunday 31st August 2025 

Initial interviews with Prospectus: 5-12th August 2025 

Panel interviews with our client: w/c 15th September 2025 

Queries 

If you have any queries or wish to have an informal discussion about the opportunity, please contact our retained advisors Anna Gardet or Erica Ritchie with a copy of your CV.

Caritas Social Action Network

Senior Migration Officer

Location: London, with working from home, regular travel in England and Wales, and rare travel overseas.

Contract: full-time, one year, with regular evening and occasional weekend meetings.

Salary: £37,440

Closing date: Monday 18 August at 12 noon

Interview date: Thursday, 28 August, in person, in London

CSAN is the official agency of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice affecting people in England and Wales. We’re facing a steep rise in poverty and significant pressures on social, economic and church resources. At this time, the Church is called to raise a prophetic voice against poverty and the rhetoric of division and work for the building of a more just society.

In 2021, CSAN launched its strategy to extend the social mission of the Church in a post-COVID society. We are developing the infrastructure of the social action network of the Church in England and Wales, including new alliances for diocesan Caritas agencies, advocacy and migration. As our Senior Officer for Migration, you will help to raise awareness of migration issues from the perspective of Catholic Social Teaching and lead on our Ambassadors Programme against Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery, as well as prepare briefings and campaign responses to Government legislation.

Over the last 20 years, CSAN has established a network of 50 diocesan and direct service charities, with a combined annual expenditure on social mission estimated at £400m, excluding the work of schools and religious congregations. Our members build up local community life in diverse ways, and many of them support individuals in difficulty, including with housing, prison and detention, social isolation, ill-health, violence, disability, employment, care, therapeutic and welfare support.

The key responsibilities of the Senior Migration Officer are:

1. To provide timely information to the CSAN team and the network on UK Government resettlement programmes and legislation on immigration.

2. To support CSAN’s work to improve public policy and practice on immigration, with compelling evidence from our network, and enabling effective participation in advocacy for a humane system.

3. To work closely with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales on issues of migration and human trafficking.

4. To lead the implementation of the Gubay-

funded CSAN Ambassadors against Human Trafficking programme, preparing and delivering programme materials.

5. To support cross-cutting key workstreams and alliances in CSAN, especially the Domestic Abuse alliance and racial justice, in partnership with the Bishops’ Conference.

The work of the small national team requires a high level of integrity and teamwork, respect for and capacity to navigate complex civil and church contexts at pace, and a stable commitment to personal formation and training. Our Senior Migration Officer will bring a professional track record of relevant research and analysis, production of compelling communications, and diligent administration. A satisfactory basic DBS check and references are required.

CSAN is a member of Caritas Internationalis, one of the largest humanitarian networks in the world, with national agencies in over 160 countries, and among the most successful examples of organised Catholic social action.

The vacancy

We are seeking to appoint one lay member to sit on our GOC Council.

About the GOC

We are the regulator for the optical professions in the UK. Our purpose is to protect the public by promoting high standards of education, performance and conduct.  For more information about us please visit our website:optical. org.

About the Council

The role of Council is to lead on the GOC’s mission to protect the public by upholding high standards in eye care services.  The Council is composed of six lay members (including the Chair) and six registrant members (i.e. registered optometrists and dispensing opticians).  At least one member of the Council must work wholly or mainly in each of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.  One Council member acts as a Senior Council Member whose role is to carry out the Chair’s appraisal as well as provide a sounding board for the Chair and serve as an intermediary for Council members, Executive and stakeholders as necessary. 

The successful candidate will contribute to Council by exercising oversight, ensuring effective corporate governance, and making high-level policy decisions. They will be able to operate strategically and impartially; listen, communicate, and influence effectively; exercise judgment; and inspire confidence and support amongst our stakeholders. 

Remuneration and time commitment

Council members are remunerated in accordance with our member fees policy (£13,962 per annum plus reasonable travel and subsistence expenses).  The member fee includes time for reading and preparation.

The appointed member will be expected to commit approximately 2-3 days per month.  Meetings will usually take place via MS Teams but may on occasion be held at the GOC Offices at Level 29, One Canada Square, London, E14 5AA. There are occasional online catch-up meetings - these are currently scheduled on a Tuesday evening every 6-8 weeks, from 5.30pm – 6.30pm.

How to apply:

Please email the the following to appointment@optical. org

· your CV outlining your employment history, any relevant voluntary work, public service or other experience; together with any relevant professional, academic or vocational qualifications;

· the application form, stating how your experience matches the criteria for the vacancy you are applying for; and

· complete the EDI monitoring form linked in the candidate pack (this is an online form and does not need to be included in the email with your CV and application form).

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  midnight on Sunday 10 August 2025.

Online interviews will be held on between Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 October 2025.

If you have any questions, please email them to appointment@optical. org and we will aim to respond to you within 48 hours. 

We welcome applications from individuals who are disabled and from diverse ethnic backgrounds as these are currently under-represented on our council and committees.

We strive to be as diverse as the public we protect and welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity and geographical locations outside of London.

 

 

Are you passionate about fundraising, donor stewardship, and supporting our vibrant community through bespoke events? If you're an organised and enthusiastic individual, we have an incredible opportunity for you to join Fine Cell Work as the Fundraising & Events Officer.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a high-energy, creative person to join the team. As the Fundraising & Events Officer, you will play a crucial role in driving our fundraising efforts and supporting our community of fundraisers, donors, and partners. Your work will directly contribute to the sustainability of our mission and help us continue our mission of rehabilitation through the transformative power of needlework.

This is a fantastic opportunity to work for an innovative growing charity working in the area of criminal justice, and to be a part of a unique social enterprise. The role brings organisational skills and creativity together. 

Our Purpose: 

Fine Cell Work is a UK- based rehabilitation charity and social enterprise which makes beautiful handmade products in British prisons. For over 25 years we’ve been transforming the lives of people in prison and prison leavers, one stitch at a time. Our unique process boosts our stitcher’s self-worth, instils accountability, and fosters hope.

Collaborating with world-renowned designers to create one-of-a-kind, limited-edition products, we support people in prison and prison leavers to finish their sentences with work skills, money earned and saved, and the self-belief to rebuild meaningful, independent, crime-free lives. By providing purposeful activity to prepare prisoners to successfully reintegrate into the community, we are working to improve prisoner’s skills and well-being. This is key to reducing recidivism. 

The Role: 

The Fundraising & Events Officer will provide administrative assistance with grants and donor fundraising and the logistics for events. Working alongside the Development Manager and the Founding Director you will support identifying and managing donor opportunities, and the research and support of applications to Trusts and Foundations. It is a diverse and varied role and is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to build a solid foundation in fundraising and events. 

This is a results-driven role with the postholder driving planned income growth by establishing, enabling, and inspiring events, building relationships and maximising fundraising efforts. As this is a people facing role, you will be working with supporters over the phone, online, in writing and face to face, with the aim of helping donors receive the ultimate supporter journey. 

You will require excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to network, build relationships and influence both internally and externally, with the confidence to speak publicly about the work of the charity. To be successful in this role, you should possess exceptional organisational skills, excellent communication abilities – including good writing skills, and a passion for making a difference. In addition, experience with fundraising, donor stewardship, event planning and organisation and CRM systems will be highly valued. 

Your work will be essential in generating the income needed to support our initiatives, grow our donor base, and provide vital services to support our mission of rehabilitation. 

This is a unique opportunity to combine your passion for fundraising, donor stewardship, and supporting our community. Together, we will make a significant impact and drive positive change. Fine Cell Work’s office in Battersea is run by a team of 15 staff (FTE) supported by 191 volunteers, 116 of whom teach in prisons (volunteer figures for 2024). 

Fundraising and earned income are fundamental requirements for FCW, and all staff are involved in fundraising and earned revenue activities. 

Principal Accountabilities for the Core Job: 

1. Ensure all the necessary administration to support fundraising including recording all donations and potential contact information on Salesforce, thanking and reporting to all event attendees and donors. 
2. Assistance in the planning, setting up and logistics of all events including attending events as required (includes occasional out of office and out of hours commitments). 
3. Establish and maintain donor contacts on the database, and, with the Development Manager, coordinate donor communication and planning. 
4. Prepare donation quarterly reports and report post event on financial and potential contact outcomes and lessons learnt. 
5. Build and support our individual giving Champions programme through events and regular communications. 
6. Work with the Founding Director in research to support grant applications and assistance in making applications to small grant–making organisations. 
7. Prepare information for reports to Trusts and Foundations and major donors, creating a fundraising dashboard to include uploading and managing reporting and grant deadline dates on Salesforce including the establishment of a reporting procedure for existing grants makers. 
8. Working with the Development Manager, ensure there is sufficient and appropriate fundraising events to meet the annual donations targets through events. 
9. With the Executive Director and the Development Manager, support the logistics for event committees including assisting in identifying potential Chairs and committee members and working with the event hosts. 
10. Support the Development Manager to expand FCW’s fundraised revenue through developing event sponsorship opportunities and other forms of event revenue (ticket sales, raffles etc). 
11. Supported by the Finance Director, set up and manage the annual budget for expenditure and income from events. 
12. Any other duties as required from time to time to support the work of the charity. 

The following knowledge and skills have been identified for the role of Fundraising & Events Officer: 

• Excellent spoken and written English, including good grammar 

• Proven experience with Microsoft Office, especially Excel 

• Experience maintaining a data base, preferably Salesforce 

• Excellent attention to detail and record keeping 

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team 

• Excellent interpersonal, customer service and communication skills 

• Demonstrable organisation, research and planning skills 

• Good level of fitness to assist with setting up events 

• Social media and blogging experience 

• Experience of working with volunteers 

Personal Attributes 

• Self-starter – enjoys working in a small team and as part of a team. 

• Creative and innovative thinking. 

• Proactive, and able to take the initiative. 

• Strong analytical skills and an interest in using insights and evidence to support decision-making & create strong cases of support. 

• Excellent time and task management skills with the ability to work under pressure and prioritise in a busy environment. 

• Strong and confident communication skills, both written and verbal. 

• Flexibility in approach to working hours as may involve occasional out of hours work. 

• A commitment to own learning and development and willingness to undertake Continuing Professional Development. 

Location: Battersea, London 

This is a full-time (37.5 hours a week), permanent role, and is primarily office-based. 

Salary:£27,000 to £30,000, based on experience. 

Fine Cell Work offer the following benefits to all our team members: 

• A supportive learning culture and opportunities to develop in your role 

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata) increasing after 2 years of service 

• Employer pension contribution after 3 month probationary period 

• Season ticket loan 

• Cycle to work scheme 

Fine Cell Work is committed to the principle of equality. No job applicant, employee, volunteer or worker is discriminated against either directly or indirectly on the grounds of race, colour, ethnic or national origin, religious belief, sex, marital or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy status, age or disability and we will maintain a neutral working environment in which no employee or worker feels under threat or intimidated. 

Are you a early career fundraiser who also loves comms?

Are you wanting to make a difference in the lives of learning disabled and autistic young people?

Caxton Youth Organisation is a specialist youth club, creating community, breaking barriers and empowering learning disabled and autistic young people.

This is a key role supporting both our fundraising and communications activities. You will work closely with the Fundraising and Communications Manager to deliver compelling fundraising applications, steward donors, grow our community fundraising, and manage Caxton’s public-facing communications across digital and print. It’s a hands-on, varied role ideal for someone who’s an excellent communicator, highly organised, and motivated to make a difference.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising

• Research, plan and draft compelling grant and funding applications.
• Maintain and update our CRM system (Beacon), ensuring records are accurate and communications are timely.
• Plan and deliver key supporter events.
• Lead on the development, delivery and stewardship of community fundraising activities, including challenge events.
• Prepare timely and engaging reports and updates for funders.
• Provide stewardship to individual supporters and donors
• Support on implementing our Monitoring and Evaluation Framework to capture meaningful programme insights to support funding applications and reporting.
• Collaborate with colleagues to gather and analyse qualitative data, including quotes, feedback and stories to demonstrate impact.

Communications

• Manage Caxton’s social media channels (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky), creating engaging, youth-appropriate content that reflects our values and voice.
• Monitor, evaluate and report on social media performance to identify trends and opportunities for growth.
• Write and collect case studies and stories that showcase the experiences and successes of young people.
• Develop and maintain marketing materials, promotional assets, and internal communications tools.
• Maintaining the Caxton website, including writing blog posts and updating content as needed.
• Lead on the implementation of Caxton’s communications calendar to ensure consistent and strategic messaging.
• Strengthen our presence in the community and online through targeted communications initiatives

Person Specification

Essential:

• 2+ years’ experience in fundraising, particularly writing funding applications and/or managing donor relationships.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to tailor messages for different audiences.
• Experience managing social media channels for an organisation.
• Confident using design tools (e.g. Canva) and email marketing platforms.
• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail.
• Comfortable working independently and managing multiple priorities.
• Committed to the values of inclusion, equity and youth empowerment.

Desirable:

• Experience using Beacon or another CRM
• Knowledge of the youth or disability sector.
• Basic photography, video or design skills.

If you don't meet all of the criteria but feel as though you would be a great fit for the role, we would encourage you to still consider applying. 

Caxton Youth Organisation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will consider all reasonable adjustments under the terms of the Equality Act (2010) to enable an applicant with a disability (as defined under the Act) to meet the requirements of the post. We encourage applicants from underrepresented groups.

Responsibilities & Key Tasks

• Support a caseload of companions to reach their potential through both practical and emotional support.
• Tailor support plans to meet individual need - setting goals, assigning actions, working with other providers and considering the person’s holistic needs.
• Guide induction and exit processes for companions - to ensure that they understand the core principles of the offer at Emmaus and move on to long term, sustainable accommodation after us.
• Support with incident response - including anti-social behaviour, mental health concerns, challenging behaviour - using de-escalation techniques to manage behavior as it arises.
• Liaise with external providers such as the Community Mental Health Team, General Practitioners, DWP, probation, prisons and CAB to ensure specialist advice and guidance is sought where needed.
• Contribute to the planning and introduction of varied and meaningful activities for companions at Emmaus Hertfordshire.
• Ensure Safeguarding concerns are raised at the earliest opportunity through appropriate channels..
• Attend appointments online or in person with companions.
• Maintain accurate records in line with internal policy and with consideration for GDPR principles.
• Perform tasks to support the effective running of the community. Develop and maintain relationships with external providers.
• Participate in an emergency on-call rota to ensure 24/7 support is available for companions where needed.
• Provide written updates for key stake holders as well as for internal meetings.
• Attend team meetings, supervisions, reflective practice and training as required

About you:

We are seeking someone who is comfortable and experienced working in a small company or charity, understanding that our capacity and resources are limited. A 'can do' attitude and a motivated approach are essential. While direct experience with homelessness may not be necessary, you should have a solid understanding of the common challenges faced by those who have been homeless. Attention to detail is essential, as is the ability to identify and promptly address risks or safeguarding concerns. Empathy, attentive listening, and strong verbal communication skills are also key requirements. Proficiency with IT and the ability to maintain up-to-date records in our database are necessary. Additionally, you should have the tools to maintain your well-being in what can be a challenging but rewarding role. You will need to demonstrate and build the resilience required to work with individuals who may struggle to engage with services like ours and think creatively to encourage engagement. While practical experience supporting vulnerable adults is highly desirable, we are also interested in hearing from you if you have transferable skills and a willingness to learn, even if you haven't worked in the homelessness sector before.