Chief executive jobs

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 11-19 across the UK, and you can help make a real difference. As our Project Coordinator, based in Wales, you'll play a crucial role in connecting volunteers with schools and fostering impactful relationships, all while working within a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment.

We believe in inclusivity, trying new things, setting high expectations, and creating real opportunities for young people. With the support of our experienced team and dedicated trustees, you'll have the chance to shape young people's career ambitions.

If you're 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 in our Applicant Information Pack.

Person specification 

WE ARE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO:

• Has a passion for our cause.
• 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.

DESIRABLE:

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

We carry out social media checks on shortlisted candidates as part of our recruitment process, using only publicly available information and in line with our data protection responsibilities.

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 Wales face today.

Finance Director (Head of Finance & Central Services)

Do you want your financial leadership to make a real difference in your community?

At WE Care Home Improvements (WECHI), we help older and vulnerable people live safely and independently in their own homes. Every decision you make as our Finance Director directly supports this mission, ensuring our organisation is financially resilient, well-governed, and ready to grow.

Reporting to the CEO, you will be the senior leader for finance, governance, and central services, including HR, IT, GDPR, and facilities. You’ll provide strategic financial oversight, shape organisational planning, strengthen risk management, and support the leadership team in delivering our ambitious vision.

This is a role for a strategic, values-driven professional who combines commercial and financial expertise with compassion, collaboration, and a commitment to social impact.

What you’ll do

• Lead financial strategy, budgets, forecasts, and reporting to drive organisational sustainability.
• Ensure robust governance, compliance, and risk management.
• Oversee central services to support operational excellence across the organisation.
• Provide insight and advice to the CEO and Board for effective strategic decision-making.
• Support organisational growth and development, including new business opportunities.

Who we’re looking for

• ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or ICAS qualified with senior leadership experience.
• Proven experience leading diverse teams and translating strategy into practical plans.
• Strong financial literacy, business acumen, and experience in service-focused organisations.
• A values-led leader who inspires, empowers, and role-models progressive ways of working.

 Why join us

• Make a tangible difference in the lives of older and vulnerable people
• Collaborative, supportive, and flexible work environment
• Competitive salary (£60,000), generous benefits, and development opportunities

WECHI offers a rare opportunity to bring your financial expertise to a mission-driven organisation with heart, ensuring older and vulnerable people can continue living independently, safely, and with dignity.

Additional information 

• The full job description is attached below for your reference. 
• ​To apply, please submit your CV and a supportive statement (not more than two pages) telling us why you are the right person for this role. 
• Application deadline: 20/02/2026 at 5pm
• Please note: we reserve the right to close this advert early if we find the right candidates, so early applications are encouraged.
• Please note that We Care Home Improvements is unable to offer sponsorship or take over the sponsorship of employment visas at this time. All applicants must have the permanent right to work in the UK without restriction.

Help improve the life chances of young people through physics education. We’re looking for an experienced, creative Marketing and Communications Manager to raise awareness of our work, strengthen our brand, and inspire engagement across schools, teachers, industry partners, and supporters.

Physics Partners is a charity dedicated to improving young people’s life chances through high-quality physics teaching. We work with schools, teachers, and industry partners to make physics accessible for every student, helping to build the skilled workforce the UK needs for the future.

As our Marketing and Communications Manager, you’ll lead campaigns that tell our story, grow our reach, and celebrate the impact of our programmes. You’ll manage content across digital, print, and social media, shape our online presence, and develop creative materials that connect with diverse audiences.

We’re looking for someone who combines strategic thinking with hands-on creativity - confident in digital communications, content creation, and stakeholder engagement. You’ll join a small, collaborative team where your ideas will make a real difference.

Key details

• Hours: 14 hours per week (0.4 FTE) – flexible working arrangements available

• Contract: 6-month initial term, with potential to become permanent

• Salary: £35,000 FTE (negotiable depending on experience and contract type)

• Reports to: Chief Executive

• Location: Home-based, with occasional travel

• Contract type: Employment or freelance considered

Essential skills and experience

• Proven experience in developing, planning, and executing marketing communications campaigns.
• Strong digital communications skills (CMS, SEO, email marketing, social media, Google Analytics).
• Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling ability with a strong eye for design and detail.
• Track record of managing external agencies and multiple stakeholders.
• Creative and proactive mindset
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.
• A genuine commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and Physics Partners’ mission.

Application process

The full role description is available to download.

Submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

• Deadline: 5:00 pm, Sunday 1 March 2026

• First interviews: Online on 9 and 10 March 2026

Physics Partners is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Bekonscot Model Village & Railway is a registered charity and the world’s oldest, original model village, welcoming visitors since 1929. We are now seeking a Chief Executive to lead the organisation with vision, integrity and strong charitable purpose.

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive will be responsible for delivering Bekonscot’s charitable objectives, ensuring financial sustainability and safeguarding its heritage for future generations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a strategic plan which achieves Bekonscot’s charitable objectives
• Oversee and participate in day-to-day operations, and ensure an excellent visitor experience
• Develop and implement a marketing plan which increases visitor numbers and income
• Work in partnership with the Board of Trustees and promote effective governance
• Ensure robust financial management and long-term sustainability.

Person Specification

• Significant managerial and operational experience, ideally within the tourism, heritage or leisure attraction sectors
• Financial management, marketing and income-generation experience
• Ability to inspire teams, excite visitors and encourage supporters
• Commitment to heritage, education and public benefit.

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a well-known and much-loved charity.

To apply: Please contact us for an information pack with details on how to apply.  The closing date for applications is Sunday 1 March 2026.

Role Purpose

The Finance Officer will be responsible for the day-to-day financial management of the charity, ensuring accurate bookkeeping, robust financial controls, and timely financial reporting. The postholder will work closely with the CEO to support budgeting, grant and tender applications, procurement, and financial reporting to the Board of Trustees.

This is a key role in ensuring the charity’s financial sustainability, compliance, and effective use of resources.

Key Responsibilities

Bookkeeping and Financial Operations

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records using appropriate accounting software.
• Manage day-to-day bookkeeping, including income, expenditure, bank reconciliations, and petty cash.
• Process purchase orders, invoices, and payments in line with financial procedures.
• Monitor cash flow and flag any concerns to the CEO.
• Payroll and expenses responsibility

Budgeting and Financial Planning

• Support the CEO in developing and monitoring the annual organisational budget.
• Assist with the preparation of budgets and finanical reporting for grant and tender applications as requested.
• Track expenditure against budgets and provide regular updates.

Financial Reporting and Governance

• Prepare quarterly financial reports for the Board of Trustees.
• Contribute to the annual budget report for trustee approval.
• Support year-end financial processes, including preparation for independent examination or audit.
• Ensure financial records meet charity and regulatory requirements.

Procurement and Ordering

• Source suppliers and obtain quotes for subscriptions, resources, services and any other relevant needs.
• Place orders for materials and equipment (e.g. laptops, office equipment) in line with budget approvals.
• Maintain records of assets and equipment.

Support to the CEO and Organisation

• Work closely with the CEO on financial planning, reporting, and decision-making.
• Provide financial information and analysis to support organisational planning.
• Undertake any other finance-related duties appropriate to the role.

Person Specification

Essential

• Qualified and experienced bookkeeper (e.g. AAT or equivalent experience).
• Proven experience of bookkeeping and financial administration, ideally within a charity or not-for-profit setting.
• Experience of preparing budgets and financial reports.
• Strong numerical skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and manage a varied workload.
• Experience with bookkeeping software such as “Zero”
• Good IT skills, including accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
• Understanding of confidentiality and data protection.

Desirable

• Experience of charity finance and funder reporting.
• Experience of supporting grant or tender applications.
• Knowledge of charity governance and trustee reporting.

Working Arrangements

This is a hybrid role, with a mix of office-based and home working subject to performance, needs of the charity and agreement. Working days are flexible, with a preference for Monday, Wednesday, and/or Friday, subject to agreement.

Equality and Diversity

The charity is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Hours: 14 hours per week (worked over 2–3 days - to be agreed)

Preferred working days: Monday / Wednesday / Friday (to be agreed)

Salary: £15–£20 per hour(£10,920–£14,560 per annum for 14 hours/week, equivalent to £29,260 upwards FTE) depending on experience 

Benefits:

25 days annual leave excluding bank holidays (pro rata)

Extra leave: +1 day after 3 years’ service, +1 more day after 5 years

Birthday Leave

Sick pay package

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Giving back Scheme - Volunteer day leave

Cycle to work scheme

Specsavers Partnership

Ataxia UK is in an exciting phase of expansion in its Fundraising activity, specifically regarding investment in a Philanthropy function with a dedicated member of staff. In the past, High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI) have been managed reactively by the CEO and other Fundraising staff as opportunities have arisen. Ataxia UK (AUK) now wants to make a step change, in response to identified potential within the current fundraising landscape, towards strategic management of a pipeline of HNWI. As part of this, AUK is looking to engage a consultant on a fixed term contract, to work closely with the Senior Philanthropy Manager to undertake comprehensive research & scoping, in order to populate a HNWI pipeline for AUK. 

Please note, due to the large number of applications we receive, you will only be contacted should we wish to invite you to interview.

Grade: NJC Point 16 - £18,310.80 per annum (FTE £30,518)
Hours: 22.5 hrs per week (excluding breaks)
Days: To be worked over three days, including a Monday
Contract: Permanent contract, subject to funding and the successful completion of a 6-month probationary period
Responsible to: Deputy Chief Executive
Place of work: Salford CVS’ offices in Eccles, Salford, M30 0FN.

Main Purpose of the Post 

To take the lead for Human Resources within Salford CVS, under the direction of the Deputy Chief Executive.

Salford CVS is recruiting a proactive Human Resources Officer to lead our HR function. Working closely with the Deputy Chief Executive, you’ll manage HR records, support recruitment and induction, ensure compliance with legislation and GDPR, and maintain up‑to‑date HR policies and processes. You’ll also coordinate staff training, benefits, and HR metrics to support organisational development.

This role is ideal for someone organised, confident with HR systems, and passionate about supporting a positive workplace culture.

Specific Duties

• Maintain all Human Resources records for staff members including holiday and absence records, staff appraisals and reviews
• Ensure that current Human Resources legislation is being correctly implemented across the organisation.
• Identify and recommend areas for system improvement
• Ensure that appropriate policies are in place and being followed by the workforce
• Support recruitment process lifecycle
• Support staff inductions and help staff to understand Salford CVS policies and values
• Coordinate any external staff benefit schemes, for example Hospital Saturday Fund
• Coordinate staff training and development requirements and to incorporate these into an organisation-wide training and development plan
• Compile and analyse information on HR issues, training, or other areas within the remit of this job function
• Use and manage SharePoint and MS365 tools to support Human Resources processes and document management
• Ensure compliance with GDPR and data protection regulations for all Human Resources records and processes
• Monitor and report on Human Resources metrics (e.g., turnover, absence rates) to inform decision-making

To apply

Please complete our online application form via the ‘Apply’ button.

If you would like to know more about the role, or would prefer a paper copy of the application form, please email our recruitment team.

Closing Date: 12 noon, Monday 16th February 2026
Interview Date: Friday 27th March 2026

Help a Black-led national youth music charity run brilliantly behind the scenes. We’re hiring an experienced operations manager to own the systems, administration and reporting that enable our work with young people to thrive.

UD Music Foundation is a Black-led National Youth Music Organisation based in Stratford, Newham, with a 25-year track record rooted in Black music culture. Founded by musicians in 2000, UD educates, empowers and creates life opportunities for young people, addressing racial and socio-economic inequality through talent development, skills building and pathways into the music industry.

This is a senior, hands-on operational role in a small, mission-driven organisation. You will take ownership of our core operational, administrative and reporting systems—bringing structure, consistency and follow-through across calendars, documentation, records, deadlines and organisational processes. Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer, you will help ensure UD runs smoothly, reliably and responsibly.

You’ll play a key role in:

• maintaining strong operational and administrative systems and accurate records

• coordinating funder reporting, monitoring returns and evidence collation across grants

• supporting financial administration (invoices, expenses, contractor payments) and audit readiness

• coordinating governance administration with the CEO (board papers, registers, policy updates)

• supporting project delivery administration including events, workshops and performances

• overseeing operational compliance administration (data protection, safeguarding, health and safety)

This role is for someone who enjoys being the organisational “glue”—methodical, calm, and highly organised—with strong judgement, attention to detail and confidence managing competing deadlines. It is not a programme-leading or strategy role.

UD is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and warmly welcomes applications from candidates underrepresented in the arts and cultural sector. We are happy to discuss access needs or reasonable adjustments at any stage of the process.

Prison Fellowship (PF) is seeking a dynamic and highly motivated Head of Volunteer & Church Engagement to lead and develop our work with volunteers and churches across England and Wales.

Reporting to the Chief Executive and sitting on the Senior Leadership Team, this role offers both strategic influence and hands-on leadership. You will shape the development of PF’s volunteer engagement and church partnerships, ensuring that volunteers are inspired, equipped and mobilised to deliver transformational support for people in prison and their families.

You will lead volunteer recruitment, induction and leadership development, supporting a large and geographically dispersed volunteer base. Working closely with colleagues, you will help ensure volunteers are aligned with PF’s programmes and priorities, while developing new and innovative ways for people to engage in PF’s work.

A key element of the role is church engagement. You will develop and lead PF’s church engagement strategy, building and sustaining strong relationships with churches across denominations. You will represent PF at churches, events and festivals, and work with the Chief Executive to cultivate relationships with senior and denominational church leaders.

About you

The successful candidate will have experience in volunteer management and leadership development, strong communication and public-speaking skills, and a good understanding of the UK Church. You will be a collaborative and resilient leader, able to think strategically while delivering operationally. Experience in a faith-based organisation is essential, and experience in prisons or criminal justice is desirable.

Working arrangements

The role requires regular travel across England and Wales, flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed, and operates on a hybrid basis combining national travel, home working and PF’s London office.

Genuine Occupational Requirement:
This role is subject to a Genuine Occupational Requirement for the post holder to be a practising Christian, in accordance with Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010.

This is a brand new leadership role at a pivotal moment for the Greyhound Trust.

We’re creating a new team, with a new remit, to take on a new challenge: driving our work across brand, income generation, marketing, communications and engagement so that more greyhounds can be supported, homed and championed.

As Head of Marketing, Communications and Income Generation, you’ll build and lead a compact, hands-on, multi-disciplinary team, bringing together specialist skills and embedding genuinely integrated, collaborative ways of working. This role will suit someone who enjoys shaping teams as much as shaping strategy — and who is excited by the opportunity to create something from the ground up.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you’ll be a key member of the senior management team, contributing to the organisation’s strategic development, long-term planning and operational effectiveness. You’ll work as part of a highly motivated, close-knit leadership group based at the National Greyhound Centre in Horley, Surrey, where collaboration, mutual support and shared accountability really matter.

Alongside leading the Trust’s brand, marketing and income generation activity, you will also develop and manage our wholly owned trading subsidiary, Greyhound Events Ltd — ensuring it grows sustainably and plays a meaningful role in both income generation and supporter engagement. You’ll see events not just as fundraisers, but as powerful opportunities to build relationships, tell our story and bring new audiences closer to our cause.

You’ll be responsible for creating and delivering an integrated brand, marketing and income generation strategy, grounded in audience insight and sector best practice, and flexible enough to evolve as we grow. From individual giving and digital campaigns to partnerships, events and retail, you’ll oversee a diverse income portfolio while ensuring supporters and volunteers have a consistently positive experience with the Greyhound Trust.

This is a role for a leader who combines strategic vision with practical delivery, and who leads with empathy, creativity and determination. You’ll support colleagues and volunteers across the organisation, champion high standards, and help ensure that everything we do reflects our values — committed, compassionate and determined — always doing what is best for every greyhound.

We are excited to hear from you if you bring experience, energy and a commitment to our casue.

Please see the full JD / Job pack below.

Prospectus is delighted to be supporting a vibrant, frontline focussed charity working hard in the community with the search for an Executive Assistant. 

The Executive Assistant to the CEO will be joining a central services team in a crucial role.  The post holder will provide comprehensive support and ensure the smooth running of the executive office.

Excellent project management and organisational skills is a must, along with good understanding of Microsoft office applications and the ability to communicate effectively at all levels.

Working Hours: 35 hours per week, 9:00-17:00, Monday to Friday with some flexibility required.  The role will be based on site 5 days per week.

Key responsibilities: 

• Coordinate the CEO's complex schedule
• Prepare agendas and take accurate minutes for Board, committee, and senior leadership meetings along with other grouping as necessary
• To organise all business travel arrangements for the CEO (and SLT members, where requested by the CEO)
•  Act as the first point of contact for the CEO with internal and external stakeholders.
• Draft, prepare, and handle correspondence, reports, presentations, and other documents, maintaining accuracy and quality standards
• Manage confidential information with the utmost discretion and integrity
• Undertake research and prepare briefing materials for strategic initiatives
• Support the CEO in planning and delivering organisational events (AGM, VIP visits, project launches and training events)
• Assist with the coordination and delivery of our annual programme of Community Fundraising and Challenge Events
• Develop links with corporate businesses

At Prospectus, we invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you with your application. We welcome all candidates to apply, regardless of age, sex/gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or pregnancy/maternity.

Job Title: Head of Fundraising 

Reports to:   Deputy CEO

Location:  Contracted to Breaking Barrier’ office in London, Birmingham or Manchester, with some expectation of travel

Terms:      5 days per week (37.5 hours) but open to part-time (minimum 30 hours) and flexible working arrangements

Contract:   Permanent

Salary:  £55,000 - £60,000 (inclusive of London weighting)

Purpose of the Role 

The Head of Fundraising is a strategic leadership role within the Income and Engagement Directorate, with overall responsibility for the strategy, delivery and performance of Breaking Barriers’ high-value income portfolio. This includes corporate partnerships, trusts and foundations, statutory funding, and major gifts.

Breaking Barriers has grown into a national charity supporting over 1,300 refugees each year and raising c.£3m annually. Income from corporate partners and philanthropic funders has been central to this growth, with corporate partnerships integral to both income and the creation of meaningful employment outcomes for our refugee clients. As the organisation enters its next strategic phase, the priority is to develop national partnerships in line with a redesigned service model and build long-term resilience across high-value income streams.

Reporting to the Deputy CEO, the Head of Fundraising will translate organisational priorities into a clear income strategy that delivers resilience and long-term relationship-led partnerships.  They will lead and support a team of senior fundraisers, each with lead responsibility for a defined income stream, while maintaining personal involvement in a small number of priority, high-value relationships.

As a member of Breaking Barriers’ Joint Leadership Team, the post-holder will contribute to organisational leadership, culture and decision-making, and will help shape how we work with responsible businesses, funders and partners to advance refugee employment in the UK.

Key Responsibilities

1. Income generation and external partnerships

• Hold overall accountability for income delivery across corporate partnerships, trusts and foundations, statutory funding, and major gifts / high-net-worth individuals.

• Provide strategic oversight and direction to senior managers leading each income stream, ensuring coherence, prioritisation and strong performance across the portfolio.

• Maintain personal oversight of a small number of priority, high-value relationships, acting as senior sponsor and external representative where appropriate.

• Ensure a strong, diversified pipeline of prospective partners and donors aligned with organisational priorities.

• Champion excellent stewardship and supporter experience across all high-value relationships.

• Work closely with colleagues across the Directorate and the Joint Leadership Team to maximise cross-fundraising, partnership and engagement opportunities.

• Ensure that the voice, experience and dignity of refugees are meaningfully and ethically reflected in fundraising activity.

• Ensure accurate and consistent use of Salesforce for pipeline management, forecasting, reporting and analysis.

• Work closely with the Deputy CEO and Finance team on income forecasting, budgeting and financial planning.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements, including GDPR and the Fundraising Code of Practice.

2. Strategy and growth

• Working closely with the Deputy CEO, lead the development and delivery of an integrated Fundraising Strategy that supports organisational priorities, financial sustainability and long-term national partnerships.

• Translate strategy into clear priorities, plans and performance expectations across the fundraising portfolio.

• Drive income growth while strengthening long-term resilience across high-value income streams.

• Develop and deliver national and multi-year partnerships, particularly with corporate partners and major statutory funders, ensuring these relationships are strategically aligned, high-impact and mutually beneficial.

• Ensure fundraising propositions are compelling, evidence-led and clearly connected to Breaking Barriers’ impact, working closely with the Services Directorate to reflect operational reality and client need.

• Strengthen pipeline management, forecasting and scenario planning to support financial resilience and informed decision-making.

• Identify opportunities to deepen funder engagement beyond income, including learning partnerships, influence and profile-raising where appropriate.

• Monitor external trends and risks affecting high-value fundraising, adapting plans proactively in partnership with organisational leadership

3. Leadership and team management

• Provide inclusive, ambitious and supportive leadership to the Fundraising team, fostering a culture of high performance, collaboration and learning.

• Line manage 3 Senior Managers across Corporate Partnerships and Philanthropy, each with lead responsibility for a defined income stream.

• Set clear expectations, objectives and KPIs for senior managers, supporting them to balance strategic leadership with hands-on fundraising delivery.

• Ensure effective prioritisation, realistic workloads and joined-up ways of working across a complex fundraising portfolio.

• Lead on workforce planning, skills development and succession planning within the Fundraising function, in partnership with the Deputy CEO.

• Champion strong collaboration between fundraising and other directorates, particularly Services, Communications and Finance.

• Model Breaking Barriers’ values at all times, contributing to a welcoming, mission-led and entrepreneurial organisational culture.

• Actively contribute as a member of the Joint Leadership Team, supporting organisational leadership and decision-making beyond fundraising.

• Provide clear, accurate and timely reporting to the Deputy CEO, CEO and Board of Trustees, attending meetings as required.

Person Specification

Essential

• Significant experience leading high-value fundraising across multiple income streams, with a strong track record of income growth.

• Demonstrable success securing and stewarding 6- and 7-figure partnerships or donations from corporate partners, trusts/foundations, statutory funders and/or major donors.

• Proven ability to operate at both strategic and delivery levels, balancing leadership with selective frontline fundraising.

• Experience managing senior fundraisers or managers with responsibility for discrete income streams.

• Strong strategic, financial and analytical skills, including budgeting, forecasting, performance management and risk assessment.

• Excellent relationship-building, influencing and negotiation skills, with credibility at senior levels internally and externally.

• Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and compellingly to a range of audiences, including trustees.

• Experience working effectively across an organisation and with senior leadership teams.

• Strong project management skills and ability to prioritise in a fast-paced environment.

• Sound knowledge of GDPR and the Charity Fundraising Code of Practice.

• Demonstrable interest in, and commitment to, refugee inclusion, employment or related social justice issues.

• A leadership style aligned with Breaking Barriers’ values: mission-led, welcoming, collaborative and entrepreneurial.

Desirable

• Experience integrating or restructuring fundraising teams or portfolios.

• Knowledge of trends in refugee sector funding, responsible business or social impact partnerships.

• Experience of statutory funding delivery and compliance.

• Event-based fundraising or donor cultivation experience.

Other considerations:

• Breaking Barriers is committed to protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect and for their views, wishes and beliefs to be fully taken into account when deciding action. 

• We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion or belief. 

• Breaking Barriers particularly welcomes applicants with experience of seeking asylum and/or a refugee background. 

As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, we are committed to offering an accessible recruitment process and guarantee an interview to all applicants with a disability who meet the minimum criteria for the role.

The Difference is an education charity, founded to change the story on lost learning. Our vision is to see lost learning falling nationally by 2030 and for schools to be better equipped to support all children, particularly those most vulnerable.

Leading national policy strategy

As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you will work closely with the CEO to develop and execute a four-year influencing plan.  Together we’ll aim to shift local and national incentives on inclusion by 2030, which see the national trend of rising suspension and absence begin to fall. 

You will hold relationships with the Department for Education and Ofsted and advise on policy priorities ahead, such as:

• Widening the definition of inclusion beyond special needs, recognising the needs of those young people historically or currently interacting with social services

• Reducing perverse incentives for schools to alter their school roll through admissions and pupil exits

• Expectations for multi-academy trusts in capturing and analysing data on lost learning, including how it disproportionately affects different groups

• Improving local alternative provision eco-systems, to improve outcomes for young people

• National standards for inclusive school practice, at a universal and targeted level

• Professional development standards for school inclusion

Developing implementation expertise in the middle tier

In your first six months, you will advise on the internal development of a new programme for middle tier policy actors: multi-academy trust and local authority leaders.  You will support the Programme team in its design, to plan strategically for the recruitment of trusts and local authorities, and you will plan the research and influencing work which will seek to share their success nationally.

Building the evidence base

In your second six months, you will work with the CEO to build out our research function. Your influencing plan will include how The Difference can learn from the work across our multi-academy trust, local authority and internal AP pioneer partners over the next four years, to develop influential publications. Research work ahead will include publishing sector-facing publications of The Difference’s own research, carried out by our research lead and associates; alongside managing external contractors and internal colleagues to bid for and deliver aligned research disseminating our ideas.

Raising your voice

This is an exciting opportunity for someone committed to inclusive policy change. The Difference has always punched above our weight in national and sector press reach. In post,  you will publish blogs and comment pieces, disseminating our shared ideas.  You will be a prominent voice on inclusion.

The Difference is still a small and growing charity. This means that our work is fast-paced, our roles are broad, and there is a culture of being highly autonomous, reactive and flexible, as the needs of the organisation evolve. If this sounds exciting rather than daunting, then this could be the role and team for you!

The Role
This is an exciting time to join The Difference as we increase our impact, reach more schools, and develop our influencing strategy. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs you will: 

Design and execute an impactful influencing plan 

• Design an influencing plan - Identify via horizon scanning opportunities to influence national policy using open policy windows, or by nudging/creating new ones. 

• Execute an influencing plan - Utilise own assets and assets across the organisation, including the Director team, to deliver against the influencing plan.

• Relationship building - Build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders who hold power. This will include policy makers in national governments, local government officials, politicians, other third sector organisations and think tanks. 

• Leadership - Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational and own brand.

Build policy capacity and credibility across the organisation

• Policy positions and solutions- Use the concepts, work and experience of The Difference’s programmes to develop new, and refine existing, national policy positions to shift incentives. 

• Thought leadership - Be the organisation’s education policy and political expert. 

• Generating income - Use own and team’s expertise and credibility to generate income via speaking engagements and consultancy to support the organisation’s financial sustainability. 

Person Specification

Essential – We are looking for someone with the following knowledge, experience and skills, though you may be stronger in some areas than others:

• Deep expertise in education policy, particularly on the topic of lost learning and the various policy and political debates, including areas of controversy, surrounding this policy topic. 

• Strategic thinker with a proven track record in identifying policy windows and designing activities that lead to meaningful national policy change. 

• Excellent relationship builder, who brings with them their own network of influential stakeholders and has a plan for building new relationships. Adept at navigating tricky situations and explaining complex, sometimes difficult, messages.

• Expert convener with a strong knowledge of the education sector, including which schools, trusts and local authorities are influential and experience in bringing a variety of perspectives together to generate consensus. 

• Persuasive and clear writing style for publication, including reports, press, blogs and ghost writing for members of the senior leadership team, often based on consensus positions, and designed to communicate key messages for impact. 

• Confidence and credibility in communicating nuanced messages in a contentious landscape, in writing, verbally and in public (e.g. on panels), to raise the profile of The Difference. 

• Strong project manager who can design systems and processes to keep self, team and other stakeholders on task and on time. Experience of designing programmes of work and monitoring their effectiveness. Flexible project management style that can adapt to a changing environment. Confidence in managing a variety of stakeholders and supporting them to deliver on time. 

Desired – You are more likely to be successful in your application if you have one or more of the following: 

• Familiarity with The Difference’s programmatic work, theory and practice. 

• Lived experience or insight into the school experiences of marginalised young people (e.g. those with experience of the care system, mental ill health, special educational needs, exclusion, and racism).

We know that some people, especially those from marginalised backgrounds, may hesitate to apply unless they meet every listed requirement. If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution, we warmly encourage you to apply. 
We actively welcome applications from people whose backgrounds are under-represented in the charity sector, including but not limited to: people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people with experience in the case system, non-graduates and first-in-family graduates.

About Figurative

Figurative is a new organisation, and this is a brand new role. Our mission is to bring new funding capital to the cultural and creative sectors, and to deploy it in ways that optimise for social impact and for sector sustainability.

We bring together deep expertise through Arts & Culture Finance (formerly part of Nesta) and New Philanthropy for Arts & Culture to unlock new and innovative ways of funding and supporting the UK’s arts ecosystem.

Figurative manages three investment portfolios that have supported over 60 organisations and raised more than £30 million in investment capital over the last decade.

About this role

Culture and creativity are essential to human flourishing, yet the financial models supporting them are in need of a serious reimagining. Public subsidy is declining in real terms, traditional philanthropy can't fill the gap, and commercial investment often doesn't align with how cultural and creative sector organisations work best.

Figurative exists to create a third way: impact investment that brings new capital to culture and creativity, while respecting what makes the sector special. But scaling a genuinely new funding model requires more than good intentions - it needs robust infrastructure, diversified capital sources, and deep credibility with the organisations we exist to serve.

This is a unique opportunity to join Figurative in its infancy, and to take responsibility for growing Figurative from £30m to £100m+ over the next 3-5 years. Your work will directly enable cultural organisations to access capital they couldn't reach through traditional routes - capital that allows them to take creative risks, sustain their missions, and amplify their social impact without compromising their values.

You will be joining a dynamic, inclusive, collaborative team that is committed to learning on the job, and in the open. This involves testing out new ideas, and finding partners who are keen to explore innovative ways in which their money can be used to bring about their desired outcomes through the power of culture and creativity.

Key Responsibilities

The Development Director will:

• lead our efforts to raise money into our own parent charity, from primarily new sources;
• support the CEO and investment team to raise investment capital (which may take the form of repayable grants) into our investment funds;
• lead our efforts to support organisations in the sector to raise philanthropic giving as a source of income for themselves, particularly focused around place (including the development of our existing Arts Council funded place-based philanthropy networks) and social impact (including our Big Give Arts for Impact match funding campaign);
• develop and implement our place-based strategy, which will aim to demonstrate the power of blended finance.

The Development Director will be a member of the senior leadership team and report directly to the CEO, working closely on strategy and communicating strategic priorities and progress to existing and potential grant funders (into Figurative) and investors (into our funds); whilst providing philanthropic expertise to cultural organisations and partners to optimise social impact and sector sustainability.

In this role, the successful candidate will have to be/demonstrate: 

• Strategic infrastructure builder: Proven track record designing and implementing fundraising/investor relations systems and processes in growth-stage organisations - not just using existing ones.
• Financial literacy: Comfortable with impact investment concepts, fund structures, and articulating risk/return/impact trade-offs to sophisticated investors. You can speak credibly to family offices and institutional investors, not just traditional arts funders.
• Cross-sector translator: Ability to articulate culture's value to investors whose primary focus is climate, social impact, or economic development. Fluency in making the case for why culture matters to non-arts audiences. Ability to build and manage partnerships across philanthropy, commercial creative industries, and the public sector, navigating complex stakeholder environments with diplomacy and credibility.
• Cultural sector credibility: Deep understanding of how arts organisations operate, their funding challenges, and why they might be sceptical of intermediaries. Genuine commitment to supporting sector sustainability, not extracting from it.
• Proposition development: Ability to craft compelling narratives for complex funding models. You can explain why impact investment in culture is different from traditional philanthropy and why it complements (rather than competes with) existing funding.
• Scale-up mentality: Comfortable moving from £30m to £100m+ - you understand what infrastructure and processes are needed at different stages of growth.

Core Skills

Essential:

• Strategic Philanthropic Fundraising: Demonstrated ability to design and execute philanthropic fundraising strategies aligned to mission-driven objectives, including multi-year funding pipelines and donor portfolios
• Major Donor and High Net Worth Engagement: Proven experience cultivating and stewarding relationships with, and securing gifts from high net worth individuals, family offices, and trusts and foundations, and confidence engaging sophisticated donors around arts and the creative industries.
• Foundations and Institutional Giving: Strong capability in identifying, soliciting, and managing relationships with foundations, philanthropic trusts, and institutional funders in the UK and internationally.
• Cultural and Creative Philanthropy Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge of arts and cultural fundraising ecosystems, including experience working with artists, cultural organisations, and creative industry stakeholders, to aid in the development and delivery of place-based philanthropic initiatives.
• Relationship Management and Stewardship: Advanced relationship management skills, including donor stewardship, reporting, and long-term engagement, ensuring trust, transparency, and repeat support
• Proposal Writing and Funding Submissions: Strong written communication skills, with a track record of producing high-quality funding proposals, pitches, grant applications, and tailored donor materials
• Stakeholder Engagement and Representation: Confidence representing the organisation externally at events, briefings, and convenings, including presenting to boards, donors, and advisory groups.
• Data-informed Fundraising and CRM Use: Competence in using CRM systems and fundraising data to track prospects, manage pipelines, and inform strategy, with attention to compliance and good governance
• Project Management and Delivery Strong organisational and project management skills, enabling delivery of fundraising campaigns, events, and reporting requirements on time and to a high standard.
• Judgement, Discretion and Ethical Practice: High level of professional judgement, discretion, and integrity when handling sensitive donor information, complex funding arrangements, and reputational considerations
• Leadership and Team Management: Proven ability to lead and develop teams, work effectively with Boards and senior stakeholders, and collaborate within the wider organisational structures. Experienced in managing direct reports, aligning team delivery with organisational priorities and maintaining strong internal relationships.

Desirable:

• Experience in impact investing, social finance, or blended finance - ideally in a growth/scale-up phas
• Existing relationships with family offices, climate investors, or foundations exploring innovative funding models
• Understanding of place-based funding partnerships and multi-stakeholder models
• Track record of investor diversification - successfully broadening an organisation's funding base

What We Offer

• Salary: £55,000 - £65,000 FTE, depending on experience
• Location: Hybrid working arrangement based at Somerset House in central London, with flexibility and some travel within the UK.
• Reports to: CEO
• Hours: 3 days/ week (0.6 FTE)
• Location: Hybrid working arrangement based at Somerset House in central London, with flexibility and some travel within the UK.
• Benefits:
  • 25 days annual leave + bank holidays + ability to buy additional holiday
  • Pension (Employer Contribution 8% + a further 4% where the employee contributes 4%
  • Life Assurance
  • Post probation - Private health and dental insurance 

Making an Application

To apply for this role, please submit your application below before midnight Sunday 22nd February 2026. Please include a one-page cover letter covering the following questions

• What are the main challenges you think Figurative will have to navigate within this phase of development
• What are the most important messages to convey to existing and potential stakeholders about Figurative’s mission and motivations?

First interviews will be held virtually on Wednesday 4th March 2026.

Second interviews will be held in person in our London offices on Thursday 12th March 2026.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly encourage those who are underrepresented in the investment sector to apply.

Please note that we actively screen for AI-generated applications. We are looking for authentic, personal responses that reflect your own experiences and motivations.

I look forward to hearing from you

Francesa Sanderson

CEO