Chief executive jobs in west sussex

This is a critical and exciting leadership role for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust which will take the Trust forward to the next phase of organisational growth, building on the superb achievements to date of our retiring CEO. 

You’ll need passion and energy to work on some of the most profound challenges of our time. Nature needs its champions, and you’ll need to harness all of your skills, all of your personality, and your network to grow our influence, our impact, and our outcomes. You’ll excel at galvanising others to take action  enabling  us to achieve our aims and ensure bumblebees are thriving and valued by everyone.

This is an incredible opportunity to join a very special organisation with passionate and high-performing teams who are truly dedicated to our vital purpose. 

Please refer to the CEO pack for further information.

The Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer.  This means that whilst seeking employment or during such employment with the Trust, we will seek to ensure equality of treatment for all persons regardless of sex, race, age, marital or civil partnership status, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy or maternity status. 

At the Trust, we have a clear goal: to be the place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come, to stay and do their best work. We pride ourselves on reaching for our vision, through the hard work and dedication of our passionate and creative employees. 

Chief Executive Officer
NFS Mediation
Location: Hybrid - between home and the Southampton office (ideally 3-4 days on site per week)
Salary: £50,000 - £55,000
Contract: Permanent, full-time (9am-5:30pm, Monday to Friday).
Flexible working: 0.8 FTE considered + flexible working policy in place
Benefits: 32 days annual leave (inc bank holidays) 3% pension, L&D, free parking on site
Culture: Supportive, flexible, and autonomous

Are you a values-led senior leader who believes in the power of dialogue and community?

We're thrilled to be partnering with NFS Mediation, a well-established and highly respected conflict resolution charity, to recruit their new Chief Executive Officer.

This is an opportunity to lead an organisation whose mission is all about bringing people together during some of the most difficult times in their lives, helping them to find a way forward, repair relationships, and rebuild communities.

About NFS Mediation

Since 1997, NFS Mediation has been providing independent, and confidential mediation and conflict resolution services. Their work spans community mediation, restorative justice, hoarding interventions using cognitive behavioural approaches, and anti-social behaviour (ASB) assessments.

They now run one of the largest county-wide mediation services in England, operating as a values-driven organisation committed to building stronger, safer, more cohesive communities.

About the role

As Chief Executive Officer, you'll play a key role in shaping the future of the organisation, holding the strategic vision, leading a dedicated and highly experienced staff and volunteer team, and maintaining strong relationships with external partners and commissioners.

You'll:

• Develop and implement strategic plans and budgets, reporting to the Board
• Secure and retain funding through contracts and partnerships
• Lead, inspire and support the senior management and staff team
• Ensure the delivery and continuous improvement of high-quality mediation services

About you

You'll be a compassionate, values-led leader who understands how to bring people with you. You'll also be comfortable navigating both strategic oversight and operational leadership.

We're particularly keen to hear from candidates with:

• Proven senior leadership experience, ideally within the charity or voluntary sector
• A strong track record in service delivery and team development
• Financial management experience, including budgeting and reporting
• Emotional intelligence, resilience, and a collaborative leadership style

Experience in mediation, restorative justice, or conflict resolution is welcome but not essential. What matters most is a commitment to NFS Mediation's mission, values and community-led approach.

If this sounds like the next step in your leadership journey, we'd love to hear from you. Please send your CV or profile to Ellen Drummond at Charity People as the next step.

Closing 9am on Friday the 10th October
First stage interviews w/c 3rd November
Second stage interviews w/c 17th November

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.

Shape the future of charity tax as Charity Tax Group’s first CEO, leading, influencing and representing charities on tax at the highest level.

Location: Remote with regular travel

About Charity Tax Group

CTG is a small, volunteer-led charity that, for over 40 years, has had a huge impact on the charity tax landscape, saving charities an estimated £10bn during that time, including VAT reliefs, the introduction of Gift Aid and significant policy influence. The cornerstone of that success has been a reputation for technical competence and professionalism, making us ‘the voice of charities on tax’ —engaging with government, HMRC and the wider voluntary sector.

We combine technical expertise with advocacy and education to help charities navigate complex tax challenges.

Last year, we were successful in registering as a charity, which opens up new opportunities such as funding and product savings. We also relaunched our annual tax conference, which was the first we had held since COVID.

About the role

We have recently become an independent charity and are recruiting our first Chief Executive to provide leadership, raise our profile and secure long-term sustainability. There is no handbook for what this role should be, and this will be an exciting opportunity to drive strategy, build influence with government and ensure CTG remains the trusted voice of charity tax.

As CEO, you will:

• Act as a credible spokesperson for CTG with government, HMRC, charities and the media
• Work with our Technical Advisor to sustain CTG’s authority and expertise
• Lead on fundraising and income diversification to ensure financial sustainability
• Help establish a vision and operational plan for the future of CTG

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an agile, outward-facing leader who can represent CTG at the highest level.

• Excellent communication, emotional intelligence and influencing skills
• Strong stakeholder and relationship-building ability
• Knowledge of charity tax, or the ability to learn and communicate complex detail quickly
• Fundraising or income generation experience
• Flexibility and motivation to make a difference

We are open to recruiting a leader who might be working towards some of the skills we are seeking, and have an excellent board of Trustees, and a strong technical advisor who can support any new CEO to develop.

We can provide exceptional levels of flexibility to the successful candidate, with most of the role being able to be fulfilled remotely; however, there will be instances where we also require flexibility, such as when we need to provide time-sensitive responses to the media.

If you are interested in this role, we encourage you to get in touch with Bill Yuksel at Peridot Partners for a conversation.

Please click 'redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 8th October 2025.

ABOUT US

The Woodland Trust is the UK's leading woodland conservation charity and is dedicated to creating a world where trees and woods thrive for both people and nature. Our mission involves engaging and inspiring individuals to contribute toward tackling the nature and climate crisis through the protection, restoration, and creation of essential woodland habitats. 

Join our Online Information Session! We are hosting an Online Information Session with the CEO and existing Director of Brand and Communications (Supporter Mobilisation) to give candidates an opportunity to learn more about the role and to ask any questions.

The session will last no longer than 45 minutes and will be held at 15:30 on Monday 1st September. 

THE ROLE 

We are looking for an experienced, visionary leader to join our Executive Leadership Team as Executive Director of Supporter Mobilisation. This is a newly refocused position, shaped with the future in mind, and designed to deepen the public’s relationship with trees and woods.  We are fighting for the health of people and the planet with every tree. 

You will be at the helm of our strategy to engage millions-inspiring action, growing income, and strengthening our brand. Leading a talented and passionate team, you’ll develop bold, integrated campaigns that move hearts and minds. You’ll oversee communications, digital and community fundraising, membership,  and our high-profile campaigns and Trees for All programme that builds public awareness and inspires a mass movement of support for our cause. 

Working closely with the CEO and fellow Executive Directors, you’ll also play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the Trust and ensuring alignment across our work, people, and values.  Helping the Trust protect and restore woodlands that have stood for centuries - the crown jewels of the natural world in the UK - and create the woods of the future, means this role will leave a legacy which will last for generations.  It’s an opportunity to lead with purpose, engage and inspire others, and literally change the nature of the UK landscape for the better. 

THE CANDIDATE 

We are looking for a senior leader with a track record in large-scale communications, supporter engagement and mobilisation, or fundraising. You’ll have a strong understanding of how to use inspiring stories, quality data, and digital innovation to move people to action-and how to build momentum around a mission. 

You’ll bring strategic insight and a collaborative spirit, with the gravitas to influence at the highest levels and the heart to connect with people from all walks of life - helping us to bring trees and woods to all. 

Just as important as your skills is your alignment with our cause. You’ll be values-led - passionate about our cause and excited by the potential of this pivotal role to shape lasting change. 

Our Organisational Nature enables us to better understand what it means to be part of the Woodland Trust, empowering us to make an impact, every day. We want you to be able to role model our values; ‘Grow Together’, ‘Focus’, ‘Explore’ and ‘Make it Count’ to ensure each of us plays our part in helping to protect, restore and create our woods and trees. 

Benefits & Wellbeing: Joining our team means you'll be a big part of tackling environmental and climate issues. We take good care of our staff, offering support and training opportunities. We also offer: 

• Enhanced Employer Pension 

• Life Assurance 

• Flexible & Hybrid Working Options 

• Generous Annual Leave (25 days + bank holidays) 

• Annual leave buy and sell 

• Enhanced Parental Pay 

• Employee Assistance Programme 

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: The Woodland Trust embraces diversity and inclusion. We want our team to reflect the UK's diverse community. We support people from all backgrounds to apply, especially those who are under-represented. 

Application Advice: Even if you don't meet every requirement of the role, we would encourage you to apply. Your enthusiasm for the environment and our core values-Grow Together, Explore, Focus and Make it Count-are what matter most.

To maintain fairness and reduce bias during shortlisting, we keep our candidates’ personal details hidden from hiring managers, please help us to maintain your anonymity by removing personal details from your CV prior to submission. 

Apply Now: If you're ready to make a difference and grow with us, send in your application today. We look forward to hearing from you and working together to make a positive impact on our planet. 

1st Stage Interviews will be held via Teams on Wednesday 8 October 2025.
2nd Stage Interviews will be held in-person at our Grantham Office on Tuesday 14 October 2025 

Details of both events will be shared with shortlisted candidates prior to each stage. 

ABOUT US 

The Woodland Trust is the UK's leading woodland conservation charity and is dedicated to creating a world where trees and woods thrive for both people and nature. Our mission involves engaging and inspiring individuals to contribute toward tackling the nature and climate crisis through the protection, restoration, and creation of essential woodland habitats. 

Join our Online Information Session! We are hosting an Online Information Session with the CEO and interim Director of Fundraising to give candidates an opportunity to learn more about the role and to ask any questions.

The session will last no longer than 45 minutes and will be held at 14:00 on Friday 5 September.
Please register your interest by emailing Charlotte Hines (full details available via our website). 

THE ROLE 

 Due to the retirement of a long-standing executive team member, this newly repurposed Executive Leadership role has a clear focus on our long-term financial sustainability and mission impact. As Executive Director of Fundraising Development, you will lead our strategic partnerships, philanthropy, and major income generation programmes. 

 You’ll be responsible for inspiring significant financial support through trusts, major donors, corporates, legacies, and philanthropic networks. Working closely with the CEO and fellow Executive Directors, you’ll play a key role in shaping and delivering our Strategy to 2030 - ensuring we have the income, influence, and innovation to match our ambition. 

 Protecting and restoring woodlands that have stood for centuries - the crown jewels of the natural world in the UK - and creating the woods of the future, means this role will leave a legacy which will last for generations.  It’s an opportunity to lead with purpose, engage with powerful networks, and literally change the nature of the UK landscape for the better. 

THE CANDIDATE 

We’re looking for a proven senior leader with extensive experience in fundraising, income generation or strategic partnerships - ideally within the not-for-profit sector. 

You’ll bring: 

• Strategic fundraising expertise across major giving, trusts, foundations, corporate partnerships, and philanthropy. 

• Inspiring leadership - able to guide, develop and motivate high-performing teams. 

• Strong external profile - with a track record of building and leveraging influential networks. 

• Collaborative mindset - experienced in working at Executive level, shaping cross-organisational strategy. 

• A personal commitment to nature recovery, equity of access, and environmental impact. 

Most importantly, you’ll be values-led - excited by the potential of this pivotal role to shape lasting change. 

Our Organisational Nature enables us to better understand what it means to be part of the Woodland Trust, empowering us to make an impact, every day. We want you to be able to role model our values; ‘Grow Together’, ‘Focus’, ‘Explore’ and ‘Make it Count’ to ensure each of us plays our part in helping to protect, restore and create our woods and trees. 

Benefits & Wellbeing: Joining our team means you'll be a big part of tackling environmental and climate issues. We take good care of our staff, offering support and training opportunities. We also offer: 

• Enhanced Employer Pension 

• Life Assurance 

• Flexible & Hybrid Working Options 

• Generous Annual Leave (25 days + bank holidays) 

• Annual leave buy and sell 

• Enhanced Parental Pay 

• Employee Assistance Programme 

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: The Woodland Trust embraces diversity and inclusion. We want our team to reflect the UK's diverse community. We support people from all backgrounds to apply, especially those who are under-represented. 

Application Advice: Even if you don't meet every requirement of the role, we would encourage you to apply. Your enthusiasm for the environment and our core values-Grow Together, Explore, Focus and Make it Count-are what matter most.

To maintain fairness and reduce bias during shortlisting, we keep our candidates’ personal details hidden from hiring managers, please help us to maintain your anonymity by removing personal details from your CV prior to submission. 

Apply Now: If you're ready to make a difference and grow with us, send in your application today. We look forward to hearing from you and working together to make a positive impact on our planet. 

1st Interviews will be held via Teams on Friday 3 October 2025 
2nd Stage Interviews will be held in-person at our Grantham Office on Monday 13 October 2025 

Details of both events will be shared with shortlisted candidates prior to each stage. 

Director of Fundraising & Partnerships 
 

Location: Hybrid flexible working,

Winchester based office (expectation 1 day per week) 

Salary: £60,000–£70,000 

At the British Liver Trust, we are fighting to improve liver health for everyone. Liver disease and liver cancer are a public health crisis, yet too often overlooked. We raise awareness, provide vital information and support, campaign for earlier diagnosis, and give a voice to those affected. 

We are looking for a dynamic and strategic Director of Fundraising & Partnerships to join our Senior Management Team and lead our ambitious plans to grow income and impact. This pivotal role will shape and deliver our fundraising strategy, diversify income streams, and build long-term relationships with major donors, corporate partners, trusts, and foundations. 

Having merged with the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation in 2024, we are here for everyone, from tiny babies to adults, diagnosed with a liver condition. We are preparing to launch an exciting rebrand and a new name, Liver UK, in 2026. This is an incredible opportunity for the new Director of Fundraising and Partnerships to engage supporters of both charities in our new strategy and shared mission.

What You’ll Do: 

• Lead a multi-year fundraising and partnerships strategy across trusts, foundations, major donors, corporates, legacies, individuals, community, and digital channels. 

• Personally cultivate and manage high-value supporters and corporate partners. 

• Drive innovation using the latest fundraising tools, technology, and analytics to embed a data-driven approach across the team. 

• Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing fundraising team. 

• Provide strategic insight and reporting to the CEO, SMT, and Trustees. 

What We’re Looking For: 

• Proven senior-level fundraising experience with multi-stream, high-value income growth. 

• Someone who can represent the charity as a trusted ambassador, building strong and lasting relationships with trustees, donors, corporate partners and other key stakeholders, while using their networking skills to confidently promote our work and open up new opportunities. 

• Experience maximising the benefits of CRM systems, analytics, and emerging technologies to drive data-led fundraising decisions.

• Inspirational leader, collaborative team player, and strategic thinker. 

• Someone who enjoys working collaboratively with Trustees to connect with new supporters and partners, inspiring them to get involved and champion our mission. 

• Enthusiasm for our mission to improve liver health, combined with a commitment to working in line with the Trust’s values. 

Why Join Us? 
With a new strategy (2026-2032) and a rebrand launching in 2026, this is a fantastic time to join us. This is a high-profile leadership role with the opportunity to shape the future of fundraising at a mission-driven charity.

We are at a pivotal point for liver disease, with the Government’s 10-year health plan and the support of senior policymakers, we have a once in a generation opportunity to drive and create real change for liver health.

As an employer, we are proud to offer: 

• Flexible and hybrid working to support your work-life balance 

• A supportive and friendly culture where your wellbeing matters 

• Opportunities for personal and professional development, including access to training programmes, support for professional memberships, and chances to represent the Trust at external events and conferences 

• Regular supervision and Personal Development Plans that focus on your work goals, alongside opportunities to collaborate across teams 

• The opportunity to play a leading role in a major project to modernise our CRM system within the next two years, ensuring our fundraising and supporter care systems are fit for the future 

• The chance to lead and inspire, while making a tangible difference to people’s lives every day 

Closing Date:

17 October 2025 - applications will be reviewed, and interviews may be conducted, as they are received. 

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Savoy Educational Trust in and help support our mission to advance & enhance education, training and skills development in the UK hospitality industry.  As our new Executive Board & Governance Administrator you will play a key role in helping us deliver our new 5-year strategy by providing vital support to our Executive Team & Board of Trustees.

Location: Remote working (UK-based) with occasional travel

Contract: Full time (37.5 hours per week)

Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 (based on experience) plus 5% employer pension contribution

Contract type: Permanent

Holidays: 25 days per year (plus bank holidays)

ABOUT US

The Savoy Educational Trust is a leading grant-making charity with a mission to drive excellence in education and career development in the UK hospitality industry.  We exist to empower the next generation of hospitality professionals by supporting education, training, and development initiatives that enhance the capabilities and skills of those who wish to pursue a long-term career in this dynamic and important sector of the UK economy. 

We provide targeted funding and support to organisations that deliver impactful education, training and development programmes designed to inspire, prepare and equip individuals for fulfilling and sustainable careers in the UK hospitality sector. Our main beneficiaries include educational establishments (schools through to universities), industry charities and non-profits (large and small), and an array of industry associations.

Our work is guided by a committed group of Trustees and a small Executive Office Team. We have a strong legacy and a clear vision for the future.

ABOUT YOU

As we grow and adapt to the changing needs of the sector, we are now looking for a highly organised and proactive Executive Board & Governance Administrator to support the delivery of our new 5-year strategy and to oversee the smooth running of our administrative/governance operations.

This role requires a meticulous individual, with previous experience in a high-level administrative role and ideally some knowledge of charity governance. The postholder will have excellent organisational & IT skills, a strong work ethic, a keen eye for detail, and an ability to communicate confidently and professionally with a wide range of stakeholders. They will actively promote and uphold the Trust’s mission and values and will always exercise a high level of good judgment, diplomacy and discretion, in respect of the confidential information that they are party to. The postholder will be highly self-motivated, resourceful, and able to work effectively to build strong relationships with our beneficiaries, the Chief Executive/Executive Office team and our Board of Trustees.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Main Purpose of the Role

This is a central role in supporting the day-to-day operations of the Trust, providing secretarial support to the Board of Trustees and ensuring smooth and efficient administrative/governance processes. The postholder will be the first point of contact for enquiries and will be responsible for coordinating meetings, managing correspondence, and maintaining accurate records.

Why Join Us?

• Flexibility: Remote working with occasional travel to meetings and/or projects.
• Impact: Work for a charity making a tangible difference to young people and the hospitality sector.
• Collaboration: Be part of a small, passionate team with a strong sense of purpose.
• Development: Develop your skills in charity governance, grant-making, and non-profit administration.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please send:

• A CV detailing your experience.
• A short cover letter (no more than 2 pages) explaining your interest in the role and how you meet the person specification. Please indicate notice period required.

Applications close: 5th October 2025

Shortlisting: w/c 6th October 2025

Stage 1 interview (online/video call): w/c 13th October 2025

Final interview (in person in central London): w/c 20th October 2025 (travel expenses reimbursed if you live outside London)

This is a new role at Befriending Networks, as we seek someone who is up for the challenge of fundraising to support the continuation of our work in supporting the network of befriending organisations and ensuring that meaningful social connection is available to all.

The role will work closely with the CEO to deliver a fundraising strategy, which will focus on trusts, grant-givers, and corporate collaborations across the UK.  

You will be a skilled communicator, and you will be influential in how you present our work. You will be a self-starter and someone who takes pride in producing high-quality work. You will be courageous and curious as you work to position Befriending Networks as an investable charity. 

The key focus of this role

1. Generate income from small grants from trusts and foundations for specific projects and activities over the short to medium term.  

2. Assist the CEO in the preparation of strategic grant applications for work across the UK, with an initial focus on England, Scotland and Wales to deliver key priorities of our Strategic Plan over the longer term.

3. Development of potential corporate partnerships and collaborations. 

Camwch i mewn i daith drawsnewidiol gyda Cyfleodd Dysgu mewn addysg

Step into a transformative journey with Working Options. We're on a mission to empower young people aged 14–19 across the UK — and you can help make a real difference.

Over the past 18 months, our team has been building a movement of support for young people across Wales, having a significant impact on their life chances and working towards the aim of inspiring every young person in the country.

So far, we’ve already reached 19,000 students in-person and are connected with a third of all Welsh state secondary schools and colleges. In 2025, we’re aiming to reach 13,000 more young people — and we’re looking for a passionate colleague to help us make that happen.

About the role

As North Wales Project Coordinator, you’ll play a crucial role in:

• Connecting volunteers with schools and colleges, ensuring young people benefit from inspiring talks and workshops.
• Developing and maintaining strong relationships with schools, employers, and volunteers.
• Listening and adapting to the needs of young people, ensuring our programme creates real value for them and the stakeholders we work with.

You’ll be part of a flexible, entrepreneurial, and collaborative team that works remotely across Wales but comes together for events, volunteer training, school meetings, and team meet-ups. We set high expectations for ourselves and each other, value individual contributions, and celebrate shared success.

We’re seeking someone who is:

• Passionate about helping young people succeed.
• Fully committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Self-motivated and proactive, with a “can-do” attitude.
• Highly organised, able to juggle multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Skilled at building strong relationships, particularly with schools and colleges.
• Resilient, tenacious, and excited by new opportunities.
• Creative and open to trying new ideas.
• Ambitious for themselves and the charity.
• Confident with technology and has strong computer literacy.

Desirable:

• Experience within educational settings or working with young people in Wales.
• The ability to communicate in the medium of Welsh.

Essential:

• Based in North Wales, or locations within England that are near to the border (e.g. Liverpool, Chester, Manchester)
• While not required, we particularly welcome applications from people who have experienced some of the challenges young people across Wales face today.

At Working Options, we believe in:

• Empowering volunteers to deliver high-quality talks and workshops.
• Providing a first-class service for schools that trust us with their students.
• Supporting each other to innovate, grow, and make real impact.

You’ll be joining a team that’s already changing lives — but we’re just getting started. With your help, we can reach even more young people and open up new opportunities for their future.

If this sounds like the right environment for you, we’d love to hear from you.

Good luck with your application!

Sue Maskrey
Chief Executive, Working Options in Education

Thrombosis UK is a small charity with big ambitions. We are the charity in the UK committed to saving lives and improving the quality of life for those affected by blood clots. 

Key Responsibilities:

• To be the first point of contact for those requiring support, information and signposting with regards to VTE
• Answering enquiries across all channels (including those via the chat on our Facebook pages and “Let’s Talk Clots” app) in a supportive and timely manner
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with a range of stakeholders including patients, carers, and medical professionals
• Facilitating online meetings and focus groups between those with lived experience of VTE and selected research partners
• Accurately recording contact information on a central database
• Contributing to the development/updating of TUK’s information materials, to reflect current guidelines and medical advances
• Ensure accessibility of patient information materials
•  Providing support at TUK events, and wider initiatives such as National Thrombosis Week and World Thrombosis Day
• Contributing to the development of TUK’s community engagement activities
• Preparing a monthly overview of community engagement for the CEO

We are looking for an experienced Finance Director to join our team of nearly 100 staff, ideally before the end of 2025.

This is a full-time, home-based, permanent position. You can be based anywhere in mainland UK or Ireland, with some travel and occasional overnight stays to meeting and conferences mainly in England and Wales.

We offer flexibility around working hours, including the option of a 9 day fortnight - time off in lieu is also available. We offer 25 days holiday pro rata (rising to 28 days) plus statutory public holidays. We are happy to make adjustments for people with disabilities and/or caring responsibilities, and we welcome applications from all communities.

The role is a grade 7 position with a starting salary circa £75,000 plus benefits including 9% employer pension contribution.

The Finance Director (“FD”) works alongside the Chief Executive and Operations Director to manage the finances and governance of The Rivers Trust, a leading conservation charity with three associated trading subsidiaries operating across the UK and Ireland, with a collective annual income approaching £10m.

Given the prospective retirement of the current postholder at the end of 2025, we are seeking a well-qualified and experienced individual to take on this senior leadership role as soon as possible to enable handover to occur.

The role is very varied and wide-ranging, including presenting financial information to the Trustees and senior management on a quarterly basis, reviewing monthly management accounts, leading on annual budgeting, appraising internal project concepts and contracts, statutory compliance administration and liaising with auditors.

The postholder will lead a team of eight in the Finance department and join a very welcoming team of 95 highly engaged and passionate staff at The Rivers Trust.

Main duties and responsibilities:

Working alongside the CEO, the Finance Director will provide commercial, financial and governance management and leadership for The Rivers Trust ("the Charity") and its associated subsidiaries (“The Companies”). The FD will not only be an exceptional accountant, with executive oversight of the finance function, but will be commercially astute and have the confidence to represent robustly the best interests of The Companies. The FD will also be an experienced manager of people.

Key Accountabilities:

1. Act as a business partner to support and constructively challenge the CEO in the general management of the Charity and the Companies, reporting to the board.
2. Lead all aspects of the finance function (including maintaining and developing the financial control environment; robust financial accounting; cashflow management; incisive management information; clear and concise reporting to Board) to ensure that the Charity and the Companies’ assets are secured, risks are managed, and the Board of Trustees, subsidiary boards and committees can make well-informed decisions.
3. Manage relationships with auditors, funders, IT specialists, banks, investment platforms and other external organisations.
4. Provide support to project bids and the development of other commercial opportunities to ensure that bids/opportunities are optimised for the Charity and the Companies as a whole.
5. Provide input to project and programme delivery from time to time, to ensure that performance is maximised for the Charity and the Companies.
6. Attend Board meetings and Business Audit and Risk Committee meetings to guide the Board and the Senior Management Team on financial, commercial and governance issues.
7. Ensure compliance with the requirements of the Charity Commission and Companies House and, from time to time, provide guidance to members of the Rivers Trust movement on good governance practice.
8. Maintain the finance department operational manual for business continuity.
9. Serve as the Company Secretary for the Charity and Companies.

Staff Management:

1. Lead, manage and develop the finance team (who work remotely) and ensure the team understands their respective and collective contribution to achieving the Charity's and the Companies’ objectives.
2. Support the team in their professional development.
3. Ensure the team delivers a high-quality service focused on internal and external customers and funders.

Knowledge, skills, experience, and personal qualities:

Essential

• Significant experience in financial management and senior leadership roles, ideally gained in a range of organisations.
• A strategic thinker, able to see the big-picture, shape long-term direction and balance this with attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills combined with creativity and openness to innovate.
• Strong IT and digital skills, with experience of using technology to improve efficiency and automate processes.
• Proven people leadership experience, with a track record of managing, developing, and inspiring teams and creating a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative culture.
• Excellent relationship builder, with the interpersonal skills to influence, collaborate, and provide constructive challenge while maintaining positive relationships across the organisation, including with trustees and senior stakeholders.
• Experience reporting to boards of trustees and/or directors, with the confidence to contribute to board-level discussions as a trusted adviser.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills, able to distil complexity into pertinent, concise and understandable messages tailored to diverse audiences.
• The courage to make and communicate tough decisions and be open about risks and setbacks.
• Resilient and calm under pressure, with the ability to maintain focus and steady leadership in challenging circumstances.
• Impeccable standards of integrity and personal ethics, acting as a role model for the organisation values.
• Knowledge of Sage financial software packages.
• Work to a good standard in Microsoft 365, especially Excel, Word, Outlook and Teams.

Desirable

• Experience of working in the charitable sector.
• Experience of being a Company Secretary.
• Understanding of the environmental sector or a passion for making a positive impact.
• Familiarity in using Sharepoint, Sage and Slack.
• Knowledge of Partial Exemption VAT rules.
• A basic understanding of Irish tax law, Irish and UK payroll taxes and corporate governance.

Qualifications/ Education

• Qualified Accountant, preferably ICAEW or ACCA.

Additional information

Everyone who works for us is expected to contribute to a respectful and inclusive working culture and follow our policies and procedures including Health & Safety, EDI, Cybersecurity and GDPR.

Please note we can only accept applications made through this site, and not sent by email or other methods.

We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible. We warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. If you would benefit from any adjustments to support you through the process, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

To apply please send your CV and a covering letter.

Closing date: Wednesday 24th September 2025

We may close this vacancy early if we receive a strong pool of applications, so we encourage early submission

You will be joining us at a time that holds the greatest potential for fundraising in our history, following the launch of the UK Government’s Delivery Plan for ME and initial findings of the DecodeME genetics study (co-led by Action for ME) in Summer 2025. 

Building on our charity’s already established level of support from major donors, you will provide exceptional relationship management to existing donors alongside growing our network of high value supporters.

Working closely with the CEO, alongside managing a portfolio of donors and prospects ensuring excellent stewardship, you will support our Breakthrough-ME Group (a group of high net worth and highly networked individuals). There is an established level of support from major donors at Action for ME so this is a role that will require exceptional relationship management to retain our current valued supporters while growing this crucial area of fundraising. 

This would be an ideal role for an experienced philanthropy professional seeking to work for a small but ambitious charity, helping us to achieve our mission to improve the lives of all people affected by ME – better meeting their needs today while taking action to secure change for tomorrow.

Key duties

Major Donor Fundraising

• Successfully develop and implement the philanthropy strategy to secure and maximise funds from high value individuals for Action for ME achieving annual income of £250k+

• Set plans and budgets which will deliver income through major gift fundraising and philanthropic giving through family trusts and foundations, including quarterly forecasting.

• Manage a portfolio of prospects and donors at the £5k to £100k level, to develop and maintain strong and long-standing partnerships

• Work closely with the Director of Fundraising and Development and other colleagues to ensure that plans and activities for fundraising from high value individuals are integrated into the overall fundraising strategy and plan for significant growth.

• Be responsible for our Breakthrough-ME Group with high quality proposition development.  Contribution to Group fundraising activities with a specific focus on ensuring their networks support pipeline growth for future fundraising.

• Lead the delivery of our biennial fundraising gala dinner, maximising income and new opportunities from attendees.

• Develop engaging and inspiring opportunities to steward and cultivate support creating a calendar of activities including events, presentations, approaches, networking and meetings.

• Utilise the CRM database (Raisers Edge) to provide the data required to strategise your approach to philanthropy, monitor progress and provide a high-quality donor experience.

• Ensure utilisation of insight & data, producing management information data to inform planning and strategy development.

• With the Director of Fundraising & Development, create inspiring cases for support and resulting propositions with clear budgets and outcomes.

• Create adequate systems and processes to support the major donor programme.

• Undertake and manage research into prospects and major donors, preparing for approaches and presentations and briefing senior leadership and trustees for donor meetings and events.

• Develop and maintain relationships with donors, a wide range of staff and volunteers from trustee level down.

• Provide regular feedback and internal reporting to line management.

• Work with other fundraisers to ensure that all fundraising opportunities and leads are followed up – particularly in corporate, community and trust fundraising.

• Work with Trustees, the Chief Executive and members of the Leadership Team to develop relationships with major donors.

• Self-administrate including managing your own diary and meetings, keeping accurate and up to date records of activity

• Occasional travel to London, Bristol & events

Other duties

• To positively promote the work and activities of Action for M.E. at all times.

• To contribute to the team’s overall, ongoing and annual planning and budgeting.

• To undertake any other reasonable activity in line with the responsibilities of the post as requested by the Director of Fundraising and Development, Chief Executive or any other senior Action for ME management.

• Act as an advocate for the Charity and its work.

• To work in accordance with Action for ME’s values of collaboration, equity and empathy.

We are seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to join us as our Director of Service Delivery. This is a pivotal role leading the design and delivery of our frontline services, ensuring they are high quality, person centred and making a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and communities across Surrey and surrounding areas.

Location: Woking / Hybrid

Salary: £60,000 - £70,000 DOE

Permanent | Full Time (35 hours/week)

Benefits: 26 days annual leave (rising with service) + bank holidays + 1 extra days leave on your birthday, Pension, Access to Simply Health, Blended working, Employee discount programme and more…..

About Us

Catalyst Support, is a respected non-profit organisation in Surrey that’s been supporting people facing mental health challenges, substance use, and wellbeing needs for over 35 years. Operating with values at the heart of everything they do, Catalyst empowers communities through responsive, high-quality services and compassionate care.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the CEO and as part of the senior leadership team, you will provide compassionate and strategic leadership across all operational areas – including mental health, substance use, and outreach – the Director of Service Delivery ensures services are safe, inclusive, and trauma-informed, and that they reflect the diversity and lived experience of the communities we support.

You will hold accountability for service performance, safeguarding, quality assurance, and system partnerships. They work closely with the CEO, the Director of Operations (internal systems and transformation), and the Head of Finance and Resources to ensure operational delivery is effectively supported by infrastructure, systems, and financial stewardship.

Who We’re Looking For

Proven track record of delivering high quality, person led and socially impactful services and managing internal functions

Senior operational leadership experience in health, care, VCSE or related sectors

Experience in managing service compliance and staff wellbeing

Demonstrated success in leading performance improvement and impact measurement

Strong partnership working experience across statutory, VCSE and community systems

Budget management, including responsibility for service level budget setting, monitoring and decision making

Deep understanding of safeguarding frameworks, regulation and operational risk

Strong leadership and coaching skills rooted in empathy, empowerment and inclusion

Applications are open until 29th September, though we may close earlier if we receive a high number of applications, so we encourage you to apply soon. Please note, we are not working with recruitment agencies for this vacancy.

This post is subject to the DBS check. Please note past drug and/or alcohol or criminality history will not necessarily discount you from undertaking this role.

Step into a transformative journey with Working Options

We're on a mission to empower young people aged 14-19 across England and Wales, and you can help make a real difference.

Following our successful Wales pilot supporting 15,000 young people since launching in 2024, we're scaling regionally. In 2025 we're focusing on Bedfordshire, and that is where we need you, while also responding to needs across England and Wales, aiming to reach 90,000+ young people in-person and 2.5 million+ online across both nations.

As a Project Coordinator you'll connect volunteers with schools and foster impactful relationships within our dynamic, entrepreneurial environment. We believe in inclusivity, trying new things, setting high expectations, and creating real opportunities for young people.

Working from home with occasional team meet-ups, events, and school visits, you'll join a dedicated team that values high expectations and individual contributions to help young people achieve positive outcomes.

If you're passionate, self-motivated, and eager to contribute to a great mission, this is your chance to join a team that's helping young people to transform their career and life chances.

Don't just take our word for it, here's what one of our young people had to say: "My personal experience has been exceptional. There is a collaborative atmosphere, and it is truly empowering to be part of a charity that values student input and involves us in decisions that directly affect our lives." – Working Options Alumnae.

Find out more about the role, and hear from our Chief Executive about our charity's ambitions, via the applicant pack linked below.

Person specification

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a genuine interest in our work and in the greater Bedfordshire area and/or South of England in easy reach of Bedfordshire.
• Is fully committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. 
• Is self-motivated.
• Has excellent attention to detail. 
• Can juggle multiple priorities, sticking to deadlines and flagging when priorities need reviewing. 
• Has a flair for developing great relationships, particularly with schools and colleges. 
• Is proactive and tenacious, able to seek out new opportunities and remain resilient. 
• Is creative and likes coming up with new ideas. 
• Is ambitious for themselves and for the charity. 
• Has high computer literacy.

While we don't specify this in our person specification, we are particularly interested to hear from applicants who have experienced some of the challenges that young people across England and Wales face today.

If you like the sound of this environment, we would love to hear from you.

Good luck with your application!