Chief executive jobs

This is a unique chance to combine clinical expertise, leadership, and compassion in a role that can make a genuine impact on people’s lives.

Together, we improve the lives of local people affected by cancer.  We provide wraparound holistic support, information, education and wellbeing services to people affected by cancer across Norfolk and beyond.  As demand for our services continues to grow, we are seeking an exceptional Director of Charitable Operations to join our Executive Leadership Team. In this pivotal role, you’ll help shape the future of our work and ensure we continue improving the lives of local people affected by cancer.

About the Role

As a key member of Big C’s Executive leadership team, you will bring a specialist knowledge of cancer and act as an ambassador for the charity in this area of expertise.

You will serve as the clinical lead for the charity with leadership and management responsibilities of our Cancer Support Centres and Hubs, our Health Academy programmes, and of the teams that deliver them.  This includes collaborating with internal colleagues and external partners to ensure the delivery of high-quality, sustainable services for anyone affected by cancer.  An example we are proud of is the practical help with social and financial concerns through our Citizens Advice welfare advisors.

You will also support the Chief Executive with the strategic development and direction of Big C’s cancer support services and health academy programmes. This role requires clinical expertise and demonstrable experience to successfully lead the delivery of Big C’s charitable operations to meet rising demand.

On occasion, like other members of the Executive team, you will be required to deputise for the Chief Executive in their absence.

Location: You will be based in Big C’s office in Centrum, a bright and modern building on Norwich Research Park. Informally, some home working is possible, but you will need to work from the office and other Big C sites regularly.

Hours: 35 hours per week

Salary: £60,000 to £65,000 per annum (subject to skills and experience)

Contract: Permanent

About You

You will be an experienced clinical leader with a strong track record of operating at a senior level, ideally within healthcare or the charity sector. Above all, you will share Big C’s commitment to ensuring that people affected by cancer receive outstanding care, support and education when they need it most.

You will bring:

• Recognised clinical expertise and professional registration, with demonstrable experience in cancer care or related services.
• Strategic leadership experience, with the ability to translate vision into practical, high-quality service delivery.
• Strong people leadership skills, with a compassionate, inclusive and values-driven approach.
• Experience of governance, safeguarding and working effectively with Boards or Trustees.
• Financial and commercial awareness, including budget management and income generation.
• Credibility and confidence to represent Big C with partners, funders and stakeholders.

About Big C

Big C is one of East Anglia’s largest cancer charities, having raised £50 million in 45 years. Each year, our supporters help us raise around £3 million to support people affected by cancer in our community.

We provide holistic care through Cancer Support Centres and Hubs, as well as online and telephone support via our Virtual Support Centre. Income comes from donations, local businesses, grants, legacies, and 12 charity shops across the region.

Why Big C?

Committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, Big C was recently awarded Gold Accreditation for the third time running in the Best Employers Eastern Region 2025 and offers a supportive environment that values wellbeing and work/life balance.

Our benefits include:

• 33 days holiday (FTE, including bank holidays)
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Company sick pay and life assurance
• Health Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Some hybrid working with some flexibility in hours
• Opportunities for professional development

Apply Now

Closing date for applications: Monday 26 January 2026

Please take a look at the vacancy pack for further information and the job description. 

When applying, please complete the online application fully.  Information to support your application can be in your attached covering letter or as indicated in the application. 

If you prefer to apply in a different way or require information in an accessible format, please contact Caroline Roberts, People Manager.

Big C are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults, young adults and children and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. 

This role requires an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and a barred list check. Additionally, your application plays an essential part in our choosing the right person for this position. 

This is an exciting opportunity to join a small, passionate team at a pivotal moment in our growth. As our Executive Assistant, you will provide vital administrative and coordination support to the CEO, Executive Chair, and Director of Research and Grants. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth running of our operations, supporting international engagements, and helping us deliver on our mission.

Chief Executive Officer - The Brain Charity
Location: Liverpool-based - occasional travel across Merseyside and the UK
Salary: £75,000 per annum + 10% company pension
Contract: permanent, full-time

Are you ready to lead a values-driven charity that supports people affected by neurological conditions and their families across Merseyside and nationally?

The Brain Charity is a Liverpool-based national charity supporting adults, children and their families affected by any of more than 600 neurological and related conditions. Founded in 1993 by neurologists at The Walton Centre, we have grown a centre-based offer, hospital liaison roles and a national information, training and support service - from practical welfare and legal advice, counselling and rehabilitation (Neuro Gym) to peer connection via The Brain Food Café and employer/school training. We put lived experience, co-production and neuro-inclusive practice at the heart of everything we do: more than half of our staff and many of our volunteers have lived experience of neurological conditions.

As our next Chief Executive, you will:

• Strategic leadership: Develop and deliver a 3–5 year strategy and an operational plan with clear priorities that secures the charity’s long-term impact and sustainable growth.
• Values leadership: Model and embed the charity’s person-centred, inclusive and co-productive values across services and culture.
• Growth & income diversification: Lead development of diverse income streams — fundraising, legacies and commercial activity — to strengthen financial resilience.
• Partnerships & advocacy: Strengthen senior relationships with NHS partners, local authorities, commissioners and wider stakeholders; amplify the charity’s voice in neuro-health and community settings.
• Service quality & impact: Embed rigorous outcome measurement, quality assurance and contract compliance so our impact drives commissioning and service development.
• People leadership: Stabilise staff morale, lead and develop a high-performing Senior Leadership Team, and promote wellbeing and inclusive working practices.
• Governance & financial stewardship: Provide timely, high-quality reporting to the Board; oversee budgeting, forecasting and risk management to safeguard financial sustainability.

Who you are:
 

• An experienced Chief Executive or senior director with a minimum of three years’ experience at CEO or equivalent level.
• Proven track record of winning and managing commissioned contracts and delivering against local authority or health contracts.
• Skilled at building strategic partnerships and commanding credibility with senior stakeholders across health, local government and the voluntary sector.
• Confident at leading turnaround and financial sustainability work - experienced in budgeting, forecasting and making difficult decisions when needed.
• A values-led, collaborative leader with high emotional intelligence, resilience and a commitment to co-production and inclusion.

Why The Brain Charity?

• Lead a respected, person-centred organisation with a unique, wide-ranging offer across advice, emotional support, rehabilitation, social connection and national training.
• A high-impact role where you can stabilise the organisation, professionalise fundraising and scale services strategically.
• Liverpool-based centre with hybrid working and national reach — a chance to influence neuro-health practice and commissioning across the UK.

For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill via the apply button with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 19th January 2026

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Driving Mobility seeks an inspiring, strategic leader to guide its UK network and champion independence for people with restricted mobility.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 12th January.

Location: Work from home with significant travel

Driving Mobility is the national charity that coordinates a UK-wide network of driving and mobility assessment centres, supported by the Department for Transport. Together, these centres help thousands of people every year – including disabled, older and newly injured individuals – to drive safely, access suitable vehicles and maintain their independence.

We are now seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the Charity into its next phase of growth and influence. This is a pivotal moment for Driving Mobility as it strengthens its national voice, expands digital and outreach services, and deepens collaboration across government, health and the voluntary sector.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic and inspirational leader, capable of balancing operational oversight with external advocacy.

You will bring experience of partnership working at a senior level, strong financial and organisational acumen, and a genuine commitment to improving mobility and inclusion for all.

If you are motivated by purpose, partnership and impact, this is a rare opportunity to shape the future of accessible transport and independent mobility across the UK.

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. Monday 12th January.

• Provide inspirational leadership and clear strategic direction for the Freshly Greated CPP programme.
• Lead the implementation of the programme with creativity and a strong commitment to its aims and objectives.
• Develop and nurture the key partnerships in Great Yarmouth and beyond that support the programme’s sustainability and growth.

The Executive Director leads the Freshly Greated programme, working closely with the Freshly Greated Consortium, Arts Council England (ACE), freelancers, volunteer Community Producers and the wider local community. The Director manages a small, multi-disciplinary team and is responsible for the programme’s creative direction, partnership development, financial sustainability, evaluation,  compliance and will also develop and lead an ambitious, co-created community-led arts and culture programme that has action research and evaluation at its core. 

Freshly Greated is a year round programme which includes award winning youth participation and intergenerational projects across three neighbourhoods. In partnership with Out There Arts, Freshly Greated create vibrant public celebrations across parks, beaches, and town spaces, inspired by local stories. Last year, 61,942 residents took part in workshops, events, and festivals that are free, inclusive, and locally led. All Community Producers agree Freshly Greated proves everyone is creative, builds skills, and strengthens community spirit - 94% say it increases local pride, and 91% believe it makes Great Yarmouth a better place to live. 

Barnet Mencap is a very well-established local charity which provides services and support for people with learning disabilities, autistic people, and their family carers, while also campaigning alongside them to improve their lives. The organisation aims to create a world where people with learning disabilities are valued equally, have their voices heard and are included in the community. 

We are looking to appoint a new CEO to lead the organisation and ensure it continues to provide its much-valued services.

The successful candidate will have: 

• Experience in a senior role in a relevant service i.e. Learning Disabilities, Children or Adult Services

• Experience of developing a strategy and monitoring framework in a similar environment 

• Experience of effective partnership working at a strategic and practical level 

• Proven track record of income generation and financial management 

• Knowledge of charity governance, regulation for a medium size charity, and working effectively with a board of trustees.

• Knowledge of the Health and Social Care environment, including key policies and legislation 

• Understanding of Health and Safety and Safeguarding in a service delivery environment 

• Understanding of the Social Model of Disability and how to apply it to deliver empowering person-centred projects and services 

Please read the full Job Description, Person Specification and Recruitment Pack for further information on the role. 

To apply, please send your CV alongside a covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria in the person specification. 

The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service application in line with Section 115 of The Police Act 1997.   

 Closing Date: 16th of January 2026 

Interview dates are planned for the 10th and 11th of February 2026.  

Chief Executive Officer - FoodCycle
Location: Vauxhall, London (flexible working; regular travel to Projects and for meeting with key stakeholders required)
Salary: circa £75,000
Contract: Permanent, full-time (35–37.5 hours per week)

Are you ready to lead FoodCycle through a period of consolidation and sustainable growth, protecting its volunteer-led, guest-centred model while building reliable income streams and scaling proven pilots?

About FoodCycle
FoodCycle is a national charity running volunteer-powered community dining projects that combine rescued surplus food, spare kitchen space and local volunteers to deliver free, hot, sociable three-course meals. Our work sits at the intersection of food-waste reduction, food-poverty relief and loneliness prevention. Nationally scaled but locally delivered, FoodCycle has grown rapidly, enjoys strong volunteer goodwill and is developing promising trading and schools pilots to strengthen sustainability.

As our next CEO you will:

• Shape strategy & impact - co-create and implement a clear 3–5 year strategy and a focused 12-month operational plan with measurable milestones.

• Stabilise leadership & culture - provide visible, warm and practical leadership across Projects; develop the senior team and protect volunteer trust.

• Secure financial sustainability - own the income strategy, diversify revenue across trusts, individual giving, corporate partnerships and trading, and present credible cashflow plans to the board.

• Build commercial & trading capacity - drive Manor House and other trading pilots towards viable, repeatable income models.

• Safeguard quality & risk - ensure robust safeguarding, food-safety and operational thresholds for opening new Projects.

• Raise profile & partnerships - act as FoodCycle’s principal ambassador to corporates, funders, local authorities and policy audiences.

Who you are

• A senior leader with experience stabilising and growing people-facing, delivery-focused organisations.

• Proven at generating income from multiple streams, with commercial fluency to develop simple trading models and convert corporate engagement into lasting partnerships.

• Financially literate - comfortable owning budgets, forecasting and discussing risk with trustees.

• Excellent at people and change management - able to build and motivate small national teams and large volunteer cohorts.

• Data-driven, curious and pragmatic - tests pilots, embeds what works and sets clear go/no-go criteria for scale.

• Values-driven and visible - passionate about food justice, guest dignity and volunteer leadership.

• Right to work in the UK and satisfactory DBS checks required.

Why FoodCycle?

• Lead a nationally recognised, volunteer-led movement tackling food waste, food poverty and social isolation.

• Play a pivotal role growing promising trading and schools pilots to create sustainable income.

• Work with an engaged Chair and committed board, and a small, passionate national team.

• Be part of a friendly, non-hierarchical culture where leaders are visible in Projects.

For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill at via the apply button with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 19th January 2026

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) is a pioneering, purpose-driven charity at the forefront of Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS). For over 35 years, we’ve delivered world-class, pre-hospital emergency care across Kent, Surrey and Sussex—responding to over 3,000 incidents last year alone and saving countless lives. Operating 24/7, 365 days a year, our highly skilled, multi-disciplinary team uses cutting-edge technology and medical innovation to reach patients in under 30 minutes, wherever they are in our region.

KSS is a complex and ambitious people centred, and values led charity with a unique culture across clinical, aviation, fundraising, marketing and communications, and corporate services. With a daily operating cost of £57K and 91% of our total income raised through public generosity, we are proud to be one team with one purpose – saving lives and ensuring the best possible patient outcomes. Our headquarters at Rochester Airport and aircraft base at Redhill Aerodrome enable the delivery of the highest standards of pre-hospital emergency care across our communities, helping us reach more patients and save more lives.

We are now seeking a strategic, values-driven Executive Director of Corporate Services to join Team KSS—a highly collaborative, expert team united by our vision of an end of preventable loss of life from medical emergency. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of one of the world’s leading air ambulance charities.

Executive Director of Corporate Services

Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS)

Across Rochester, Kent and Redhill, Surrey, with flexible working considered

Circa £110,000 full time equivalent, with four day a week working considered

The role

It’s an exciting time for KSS as we refresh our strategy and take bold, collaborative action to reach more patients, improve more outcomes and save more lives. As Executive Director of Corporate Services, you’ll lead a broad portfolio of strategic and operational functions to support the delivery of the strategic plan and our lifesaving service. You’ll work closely with the Chief Executive and Board of Trustees, supported by a talented team and expert advisors, to ensure KSS remains a well-run, ethical, and innovative organisation. No matter the role at KSS, everyone is fearless and tireless in fighting to save even more lives.

About you

We are seeking a highly collaborative, financially competent leader, with:

·Commercial acumen with proven experience at a senior leadership level in treasury and finance management, budgeting and business planning

· A track record of working in innovative and ambitious environments, through a highly supportive and collaborative approach

· Experience of identifying, planning for and delivering new opportunities and efficiencies that maximise organisational-wide effectiveness.

Crucially you will be inspired by our critical work to save the lives of the thousands of people across our communities every year and our vision of an end to preventable loss of life from medical emergency.

Inclusion

KSS is committed to creating an equal, diverse and truly inclusive culture where everyone feels welcome and able to be their authentic selves. We believe that everyone has the right to live without fear or prejudice, and be treated fairly, and with respect and dignity regardless of sex, race, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, background or religion or belief and we welcome applications from those with protected characteristics.

How to Apply

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

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. 

Recruitment Timetable 

Deadline for applications:  Monday 19th January 2026

Interviews with Prospectus: 26th – 30th January 2026

Engagement meetings with KSS: 4th February 2026

Interviews with KSS: w/c 9th February 2026

Chief Executive Officer – The Abbey Centre
Location: The Abbey Centre, Westminster, London (site-based role, flexible working available)
Salary: £90,000 – £95,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent (Full-time, 37.5 hours/week; regular evening attendance for events as required)

Could you lead a much-loved community hub through its next chapter of stability, growth and civic impact?

About The Abbey Centre

Our charity has served the community of south Westminster since 1948 and has occupied The Abbey Centre building, a converted Victorian public bath house a stone’s throw from Westminster Abbey, since 1991. We are a site-based community hub and social enterprise, combining community services, training and outreach with venue hire, an on-site café and catering to generate income that supports our charitable work.

We work across employability, health and wellbeing, volunteering and practical support for vulnerable residents; the Centre welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds, and sees over 1,000 visits each week. Our strong partnerships with Westminster City Council, statutory bodies and corporate donors underpin commissioned activity and solidify our position as a trusted local delivery partner.

This is an opportunity for a visionary but hands-on leader to preserve the Centre’s warm, inclusive culture and outstanding reputation while further professionalising systems, developing our income, and shaping a multi-year strategy that secures the building and grows impact.

As our next Chief Executive Officer, you will:

• Strategy & Impact: lead a collaborative listening phase and then develop and deliver a 3–5 year strategy and rolling business plan that defines the Centre’s core offer and impact targets.

• Governance & Finance: own the annual budget and medium-term financial modelling, deliver full-cost recovery across activity lines and present timely, accurate management information to trustees.

• Operational Leadership: ensure continuity of community services, venue trading and café operations and strengthen operational systems including safeguarding, H&S and business continuity.

• Income Generation: drive commercial performance of venue hire, events and catering, professionalise fundraising (major donors, legacies, corporate partnerships) and lead bids for multi-year statutory contracts.

• Community & Partnerships: sustain and deepen strategic relationships with Westminster City Council, commissioners, local partners and corporate supporters to secure commissioned work and philanthropic income.

• Estate Stewardship: manage day-to-day stewardship of the Centre’s significant ageing building, overseeing maintenance, lease/compliance obligations and contractor relationships.

• People & Culture: build a cohesive senior team, embed clear role accountabilities, performance management and development, and protect the Centre’s welcoming culture while managing change.

• Brand & Profile: act as a visible ambassador locally and with funders to raise the Centre’s profile and champion its social value.

Who you are:

• A seasoned senior leader with proven experience in a small/medium charity, community organisation or social enterprise that combines front-line delivery with significant premises/estate responsibility.

• Demonstrable track record of leading strategic development and delivering organisational growth while balancing hands-on operational leadership.

• Strong commercial and earned-income expertise, with experience of running successful commercial – ideally site-based - operations.

• Confident in winning and managing statutory contracts and multi-year grant programmes; credible with local authorities, commissioners and corporate partners.

• Financially literate with direct budget and cash-flow accountability and experience of full-cost recovery modelling.

• A collaborative, visible and warm ambassador who builds trust quickly, communicates clearly and can present concise management information to trustees.

Why The Abbey Centre?

• A powerful mission: deliver practical services, companionship and opportunity for south Westminster residents in a civic, high-impact setting.

• A prominent, historic central Westminster location and a cherished community building offering scope for strategic estate planning and growth.

• A warm, loyal staff team and an engaged board navigating a positive leadership transition.

• A social enterprise model where successful trading directly funds frontline services and creates a platform for entrepreneurial leadership.

• The opportunity to shape a multi-year strategy that secures the long-term future of the charity and grows its impact in the community.

For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill via the apply button with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 12th January 2026

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

The Brain & Spine Foundation is seeking a Fundraising-Focused CEO to take the helm of our charity at a moment of growth and opportunity. This is a rare chance to shape the future of a national charity, driving income, influence and impact for the 1 in 6 people in the UK affected by neurological conditions.

As Fundraising Focused CEO, you will combine leadership with personal fundraising delivery, building high-value relationships, diversifying income streams, and raising the charity’s profile. Working closely with a committed Board and a passionate team, you will lead a trusted organisation into its next chapter to ensure more people than ever can access vital information, support and hope when they need it most.

Deadline for applications

Sunday 11th January

Interviews with Brain & Spine Foundation

w/c 19th January

We’re looking for an organised and person centred leader who can join our leadership team to support the quality, growth and sustainability of Stomping Grounds North East CIO.

The Deputy CEO will support the CEO by planning, overseeing, monitoring, reporting and taking appropriate action to deliver the service, business and financial strategies ofStomping Grounds North East CIO, with a focus on developing people, business and safeguarding and ensuring management capability across the organisation. It is key that the successful candidate can work at least some of the school holidays. 

Reports to: CEO

Hours of work :35 hours per week (1 FTE)

Remuneration: TBD

Main responsibilities 

• To ensure projects and delivery adheres to the Company’s vision, mission and values. 

• To oversee the development and implementation of new projects and sessions to meet the Company’s aims and objectives. Specifically, to ensure that:

  • Appropriate risk assessments are undertaken and documented in line with Stomping Grounds Risk Assessment procedure

  • Appropriate communications to and involvement of communities, parents and schools are delivered effectively

  • High quality Forest School provision is delivered, in line with the Stomping Grounds NE vision

• To proactively manage the financial performance of projects and the business overall, including overseeing the planning and delivery of fundraising and donations

• To oversee, monitor and report on all aspects of business governance including health and safety, safeguarding and employee wellbeing.

• To work with line managers to develop their managerial capabilities and performance, with a focus on team development. As part of this, to ensure that:

  • Regular meetings of the team leaders are organised to share information on business performance, plans and issues and to create action plans as appropriate

  • Appropriate observations are conducted, documented and shared

  • PDRs are completed in line with company policy

  • To ensure training is up to date and relevant

  • To ensure that company policies are up to date and relevant and are reviewed as required

• To be proactive and maintain requirements for governing bodies, associations and memberships

• To develop and support the implementation of effective evaluation and impact monitoring processes, including annual reporting of the impact of Stomping Grounds work. 

• To attend meetings of the Board of Trustees and report progress against the business plan

• To carry out other duties compatible with the role purpose as reasonably required or as directed by the CEO.

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Proven exceptional leadership skills

• Experience of leading and developing a diverse staff team

• Excellent communication skills 

• Excellent organisational skills 

• Extensive project management experience

• Excellent understanding of neurodivergence 

• Excellent business management skills 

• Flexibility to work during school holidays 

• Ability to travel to our multi region sites including but not restricted to: Prudhoe, Haltwhistle, Chopwell, Leadgate, Benwell and Gateshead Riverside Park

• Commitment to Stomping Grounds Mission and Values

Desirable 

• Experience with Ofsted

• Experience of working in the charity sector

• Experience of working with children and young people, particularly those with neurodivergence and/or who are not currently thriving in mainstream schools

• Experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead

• Experience of leading teams through change and growth

We abide by Safer Recruitment guidelines and therefore we only accept application forms.

We are looking for a dynamic, values-led, strategic leader to drive our mission for migration justice and social work solidarity. The role entails oversight of the operations and strategy of the organisation, responsibility for financial management and fundraising, maintaining the health of the organisation and embedding anti-racist and anti-opressive values into every aspect of the organisation. 

Hillside Clubhouse is looking for an Executive Director to champion its vision for inclusive, co-produced mental health and employment support.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 7th January.

Who we are

Hillside Clubhouse is a co-produced mental health charity supporting people with severe mental illness and more common mental health conditions across Islington. With over half of the staff team bringing lived experience, members play an integral role in shaping the organisation. Hillside provides a wide range of recovery, well-being and employment services, including its Clubhouse activities, commercial kitchen and social enterprises, alongside IPS, Employment Advisors in Talking Therapies and IAG support. They are committed to tackling stigma, promoting equity and creating a community where people’s skills, strengths and aspirations are always recognised and valued.

About the role

The Executive Director will be a values-driven leader, able to guide Hillside Clubhouse through its next phase of development and ensure that co-production, equity and lived experience remain fully embedded in their work. The new Executive Director will refresh Hillside’s strategy, identifying new opportunities for development whilst ensuring that member voices are at the heart of all major decisions. This role requires a balance of visionary leadership and an agile, diplomatic mindset that remains responsive to the evolving needs of members.

A central priority for the incoming Executive Director will be business development. They will have the ability to secure and diversify income streams, strengthening existing partnerships and identifying new opportunities. Hillside is looking for an innovative leader who can find areas for growth that align with their value-driven approach. A key focus area for the incoming Executive Director will be developing a fundraising strategy that ensures the long-term viability of the organisation.

The Executive Director will be responsible for amplifying Hillside’s presence externally, developing strong relationships in Islington and across London. As an outward-facing leader, the post-holder will have a deep understanding of the health and social care landscape, with the ability to develop Hillside’s relationships with key commissioners, funders and partners. Remaining receptive to

the experiences of members and frontline staff, the Executive Director will channel the voice of Hillside’s community, allowing them to shape the services that are delivered within Hillside and beyond.

Hillside is looking for a visible, approachable Executive Director with a strong presence in the Clubhouse environment, a relational leader who can forge connections with members and the wider team. The Director will also have a robust understanding of charity governance and the ability to build a strong relationship with the Board.

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 7th January.

This is an exciting opportunity to steer Asylum Aid at an important time in its 30-year existence. As Executive Director you will be responsible for delivering on our strategy for impact. You will oversee our work to increase access to expert, trauma-informed legal representation to those in the asylum, trafficking and statelessness systems and lead our policy and strategic legal work to achieve systemic change that contributes towards our vision.

You will line manage the Director of Legal Casework to oversee the provision of supportive and enabling leadership to Asylum Aid caseworkers so that they can continue to deliver high quality expert advice in complex cases, while being supported in their professional development and wellbeing. You will also manage and develop the work of our welfare advice team within the Westminster Advice Services Partnership and beyond, and work collaboratively with colleagues in the sector to build capacity and increase our impact. 

The ideal candidate, who may be legally qualified, will have experience of leadership in the charity/NGO sector and a sound understanding of the asylum, human rights and trafficking processes in the UK and the legal frameworks which govern the protection of refugees, survivors of trafficking and stateless people, and of the role of law in achieving system change.

We are looking for someone who is strategically minded and passionate about providing supportive and inclusive leadership to our expert team. You will be committed to our objectives and to the role which expert legal representation plays in enabling people in need of protection in the UK to obtain it.

As is the nature of this sector, the role may be exposed to a high volume of traumatic and distressing material and, whilst they will be supported by the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and surrounding team, the candidate should also be able to demonstrate knowledge of good self-care principles in an intense work environment and dissemination of those principles to junior members of the team.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership and strategy

·Be responsible, with the support of the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO, for the development, implementation and monitoring of Asylum Aid’s organisational strategy

·Provide leadership and strategic direction at Asylum Aid in accordance with its aims and objectives, with the support of the Director of Legal Casework

·Act as external spokesperson for Asylum Aid, maintaining and strengthening Asylum Aid’s position as a leader in the refugee rights, statelessness and legal aid sectors;

·Work collaboratively with others in the sector to promote and strengthen Asylum Aid’s work, identify and establish potential partnerships, with the support of the Director of Legal Casework;

·Work collaboratively with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and Executive Leadership team to drive the implementation of the Group strategic framework;

·Ensure that all reporting and monitoring requirements are met to support fundraising, contract compliance and monitoring strategic impact;

·Support the cross collaboration of the Asylum Aid team with the Helen Bamber Foundation team and play an active part in the management of the Helen Bamber Foundation Group.

Governance  

·Act as the Data Protection Supervisor with responsibility for data protection and cyber security within Asylum Aid

·Together with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and designated safeguarding leads, be responsible for child and adult safeguarding within Asylum Aid

·In collaboration with the Director of Legal Casework, ensure compliance by Asylum Aid with all legal and regulatory obligations, including the Legal Aid Agency contract, the Immigration Advice Authority and Solicitors Regulation Authority;

·Lead on the preparation and presentation of quarterly reports on Asylum Aid’s activities, strategy and risks to the Asylum Aid Board, the Finance and Fundraising Committee and the People and Governance Committee;

·Lead on the preparation of the Trustees’ annual report and ensure that monitoring and evaluation systems are adequate to enable reporting on Asylum Aid’s activities and impact.

Management and Supervision 

·Responsible for line management of the Director of Legal Casework and Welfare Advice service coordinator, and other team supervisors as required;

·Together with the Group Director of People, responsible for Human Resources and implementation of the People Strategy within Asylum Aid, including development and implementation of HR policies and procedures;

·Together with the Director of Legal Casework and team supervisors, drive the effective management and supervision of the Asylum Aid team and ensure that they comply with relevant professional standards and accreditation;

·Foster a supportive and inclusive team culture at Asylum Aid in which each member feels valued and supported to develop professionally and to perform to the best of their ability;

·Ensure the team’s well-being and that self-care practices are established and work in tandem with the Director of Legal Casework and supervisors to ensure trauma-informed ways of working.

Policy & Strategic Legal Work

·Together with the Group Director of Policy, identify policy priorities and coordinate the preparation of evidence and briefings drawing on Asylum Aid’s experience and expertise to influence system change;

·Build and maintain relationships and partnerships with sector colleagues to support joint strategic engagement including policy advocacy and strategic legal work;

·Work closely with the Director of Legal Casework and team supervisors to drive changes in the UK asylum, trafficking and statelessness systems through strategic legal work.

Finance & Fundraising

·Work closely with the CEO and the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Finance Team to set and manage budget(s) and general financial matters for Asylum Aid

·Together with the Director of Legal Casework and the Group Finance Team, establish systems for monitoring legal aid Work In Progress and billing, and securing casework income including legal aid, and inter partes income from judicial review cases;

·Work closely with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Fundraising and Communications Team to secure funding for Asylum Aid from a range of sources including trusts and foundations, corporate philanthropy and major donors;

·Ensure that Legal Aid and other income is maximised, and targets are achieved.                                   

Other duties

·Manage the recruitment and supervision of volunteers where necessary in collaboration with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Volunteers Coordinator;

·Support the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Facilities team to ensure the smooth running of the office and that the facilities meet the needs of Asylum Aid;

·Work outside normal office hours as required and travel in order to carry out the responsibilities of the post.

·To undertake any task that may be requested from time to time that may be consistent with the nature and scope of this post.

Essential Experience, Skills and Knowledge

•Experience of running a small to medium sized charity/legal NGO and/or legal department within the NGO sector (or other equivalent senior management role);

•Demonstrable experience of managing and leading a successful team and the ability to manage a growing team with mixed roles from team supervisors to administrative support staff, working co-operatively with colleagues to maintain transparency and effective working relationships within the team;

•Strong communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with people from a wide range of backgrounds

•Strong understanding of good governance including legal, regulatory and financial responsibilities;

•Ability to work with a range of stakeholders from trustees to external partners;

•Experience of leading and/or participating in organisational strategic planning;

·Experience of legal policy work within the human rights field and /or of strategic litigation, whether as an NGO claimant or legal representative;

•Experience of managing diverse funding sources and setting and implementing budgets;

•Experience of working in a service delivery partnership with other organisations;

•Experience of fundraising, especially grants from trusts and foundations;

•Sound working knowledge of the law and policy as it relates to immigration,  asylum, human rights and modern slavery/trafficking;

•Demonstrable understanding of the asylum and human rights sector in the UK;

•An understanding of the barriers migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers face regarding access to legal advice, reasons why they may become destitute and why this makes it more difficult to access advice and support; and

•The passion for working empathetically and supportively with migrants, refugees, stateless people and asylum seekers.

Desirable Experience

·Experience of managing the delivery of frontline casework with people in the asylum or trafficking systems

·Experience of tendering for and delivering publicly funded contracts e.g. LAA or local authority funding;

·Working knowledge of Legal Aid Agency contracts, including the delivery of casework and billing under a legal aid contract in the immigration and asylum category and/or the public law category;

How to apply 

The first stage is to complete on our online application form on our website by 10am on Monday 26th January 2026.

The website form will ask you to:

1.Upload a short covering letter. Please tell us why the position appeals to you, and how your relevant skills and experience, including any voluntary experience and lived experience, matches the listed responsibilities and person specification. Please also state in your covering letter when you would be available to start the role.

2.Upload your current CV

3.Complete an online Equal Opportunities monitoring form – completion of this form will help us ensure that our recruitment procedures operate in such a way as to provide genuine equality of opportunity. The questions are entirely optional, and this information will not be available to members of the selection panel.

For an informal conversation about the post before applying, please contact Alison Pickup, the current Executive Director.

Selection Process

We will invite candidates to an initial online interview on Tuesday 10th or Wednesday 11th February, followed by shortlisted candidates attending in-person interviews at our office in Old Street on Tuesday 24th or Wednesday 25th February.

We offer a guaranteed initial interview for refugees, stateless people and others with lived experience of forced migration, provided that they provide some evidence of relevant experience or skills in relation to the essential criteria.

We regret that we can only respond to applicants who make it to the interview stage.

Eligibility

Please note that the successful candidate must have the right to work in the UK (as a small charity we do not have the capacity to sponsor work visas).

Successful candidates will also be subject to a basic DBS check. If appointed, you will also be required to give your consent to the charity to receive regular updates on your criminal records status throughout your employment and to disclose any relevant convictions incurred during your time with us.

Adjustments

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. If you require a different format of the application form, such as large print or Word format, or if you would like to discuss any specific requirements, please get in touch with us.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Our commitment to principles of equity, diversity and inclusion is an integral part of our approach to our clients, our volunteers and our staff, and we are an equal opportunities and Living Wage employer.

We are committed to attracting and recruiting diverse candidates because we are keen to make sure that our staff, trustees, volunteers and ambassadors reflect the communities we serve and the wider community we work in.

We genuinely welcome and encourage applications from candidates from a range of backgrounds, especially people of colour, people with disabilities, people from low socio-economic backgrounds, refugees, stateless people and others with lived experience of forced migration or trauma and of the housing and welfare system, who are under-represented in our organisation.

We recognise and value the role of lived experience in meeting the needs of our clients and acknowledge the under-representation of people with lived experience of forced migration and statelessness in the advice sector. We value experience gained overseas as well as in the UK.

We are also proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector.

If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network and access other information and resources which may help in preparing your job application.

Please complete the form on their website to request support and they will confirm if they can match you with a mentor to support your application.