Chief executive jobs

Salary: c.£48,000–£52,000 per annum with 3% employee / 8% pension contribution and other benefits
Hours: Full time
Contract: Permanent
Location: Hybrid (2 days a week in the London office; travel will be at own expense)

Application deadline: 9am on 27 April 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 4 May 2026

The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) is seeking an Operations Manager to support the organisation in delivering its mission of helping create sustainable futures for historic buildings across the UK.

This is a senior, hands-on role suited to a highly motivated and proactive self-starter who can manage the operations of a growing charity. The Operations Manager will work closely with the Director of Finance, CEO, Senior Management Team and Board of Trustees, and will line manage the Administration Assistant.

The role spans Governance and Office Management, People and Culture, Policies and Procedures, Data Protection, and IT Management and Security. The post-holder will act as Data Protection Officer (DPO), provide support and advice to the CEO and Board, and be the key liaison with external HR, IT and data protection advisers.

Key Responsibilities

Governance and Office Management

· Oversee arrangements and logistical support to the Board and Committees (including Grants Panel, Credit Panel and Audit and Risk Committee), including coordinating the annual meetings plan

· Produce draft minutes for Board of Trustee meetings and the Audit and Risk Committee

· Support the CEO and Chair with Trustee recruitment and Board management

· Develop and manage data recording and filing systems, including shared drive best practice

· Ensure effective office management, including health and safety, fire, security and equipment, liaising with the landlord as required

· Oversee correspondence handling and the premises maintenance register

People and Culture

· Act as the key link with AHF’s external HR consultant, triaging employee queries and overseeing the Employee Handbook

· Maintain accurate employee records and oversee new starter and leaver processes

· Support managers and the SMT with recruitment, inductions and employee performance matters

· Oversee staff benefits and training, including delivery of an AHF-wide training plan

· Ensure annual appraisals are completed and filed in a timely manner

· Organise team meetings, employee surveys and the annual away day, supporting the development of a positive hybrid working culture

Policies, Data Protection and IT

· Coordinate the timely updating of organisational policies and procedures, including the policy log

· Keep abreast of legislative and regulatory changes, particularly in HR and governance

· Act as Data Protection Officer, liaising with the ICO and retained data protection advisers

· Review and maintain UK GDPR compliance and arrange training as required

· Act as the key liaison with external IT providers, overseeing IT assets, security, policies and disaster recovery planning

Person Specification

Essential

· Highly motivated, proactive self-starter with a practical ‘can-do’ ethos

· Experience in a senior administrative or operations role within a small business, charity or not-for-profit organisation

· Strong experience of day-to-day HR, including employee records, people practices and policy review

· Experience of supporting Boards and senior leadership teams

· Excellent written and spoken English

· Highly computer literate, with strong skills in Word, Excel and PowerPoint

· Experience managing IT systems and third-party contractors

· Data protection knowledge and experience, with the confidence to act as DPO

· Line management experience

Desirable

· Management and/or HR training or qualifications

· Experience working with external consultants

· Company secretarial or governance experience

· Facilities or property management experience

· Experience supporting organisational culture within a hybrid working environment

About the AHF

Founded in 1976, AHF is a leading heritage charity helping charities and social enterprises across the UK to find solutions for vulnerable historic buildings through advice, grants and loans.

We are a charity committed to being inclusive and giving everyone an equal chance to succeed. Applications are welcome from all regardless of age, sex, gender identity, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, race, sexual orientation, transgender status or socio-economic background.

How to apply

Please submit a CV and covering letter (maximum two sides of A4) via the application link. Covering letters created using AI will be discounted. Please write your own covering letter.

REF-227 594

A rare opportunity has arisen to join The Place, a global leader in contemporary dance, as Chief Financial Officer at a pivotal moment of growth, investment and strategic transformation.

The Place champions creativity, innovation and inclusivity through dance. From world-class touring programmes and the training of exceptional artists at the renowned London Contemporary Dance School, to extensive outreach initiatives and accessible community classes, As the organisation approaches its 60th anniversary, this is an exciting time to join during a period of ambitious growth and transformation.

Reporting to and working closely with the Chief Executive, Clare Connor, the CFO will play a pivotal leadership role within the organisation. You will lead the Finance, HR and Operations teams, acting as a key strategic partner to the senior leadership team.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of The Place, contributing to major strategic initiatives including capital development and expansion projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the Chief Executive’s principal financial adviser, shaping organisational strategy through insight, modelling and commercial analysis
• Provide leadership across Finance, HR and Operations (Estates, IT and Visitor Services), ensuring alignment and efficiency across all enabling functions
• Lead long-term financial strategy, including multi-year planning and scenario modelling
• Drive digital innovation across finance and operational functions
• Deliver robust financial appraisal for estates decisions, including major capital programmes
• Provide financial leadership for commercial activities
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting and performance management processes
• Ensure strong financial controls, accurate reporting and high-quality management information

About You

You will be a:

• Qualified accountant with senior finance leadership experience
• Strong business partner with excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills
• Strategic thinker with the ability to influence at senior level

You will have an interest in the creative industries and the mission of The Place. Experience or exposure to the charity, arts, culture or higher education sectors is advantageous but not essential

Candidates stepping up into their first CFO role are strongly encouraged to apply. 

Benefits

Salary: £90,000 - £95,000 per annum
Annual Leave: 25 days + 8 bank holidays

• Hybrid working with office-working from central London office
• Theatre ticket allowance and free and discounted access to evening classes
• Weekly staff Pilates/Yoga class
• Subsidised café and bar prices
• Employee Assistance Programme delivered by Wellbeing in the Arts
• Payment for relevant professional fees / membership

Ivy Rock Partners has been exclusively retained to manage this appointment. For a confidential discussion about the role and opportunity, please contact Holly Arrowsmith at Ivy Rock Partners.

The Talent Set are delighted to be partnering with Our Future to recruit their new Head of Communications.

UK-based, hybrid (flexible, with regular travel to London and programme locations)
Full-time, permanent (35 hours over 4 days, Mon–Thurs)
£55,000–£65,000

About Us
Our Future is a growing organisation working to put communities in control of their town’s future. We support local people to shape a shared vision, unlock long-term funding, and drive change from the ground up, while influencing national policy to better support community-led change.

Having started in Grimsby and expanded to Rochdale, we’re now building a national movement.

The Role
We’re looking for an experienced, strategic and hands-on Head of Communications to shape how Our Future is understood and grow our national profile and influence.

This is a senior leadership role combining strategy and delivery. You’ll advise the CEO and leadership team, lead our communications strategy, and oversee day-to-day output—from campaigns and media to content and digital channels.

Joining at a pivotal moment, you’ll play a central role in our growth and help build and lead a high-performing communications function.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a clear, compelling national communications strategy
• Act as a trusted adviser to senior leadership
• Develop and protect a strong organisational narrative
• Oversee brand, storytelling, media and PR activity
• Lead digital channels and improve engagement through insight
• Manage crisis and reputational communications
• Support place-based communications in our programme areas
• Commission and oversee creative, events and content
• Build systems, processes and a clear communications workplan

What You’ll Bring

• Experience leading communications in complex or mission-driven settings
• Excellent writing and editorial skills
• Strong strategic thinking with hands-on delivery experience
• Expertise across media, PR, brand and crisis communications
• Confidence advising senior stakeholders and navigating sensitive issues
• Experience managing digital channels and external partners
• Ability to juggle priorities in a fast-paced environment

Who You Are
You’re thoughtful, collaborative and grounded, with the confidence to lead and the humility to listen. You bring sound judgment, strong relationships, and a belief in the power of community-led change.

What We Offer

• 4-day working week (Mon–Thurs, 35 hours)
• 25 days’ holiday + bank holidays
• 10% employer pension contribution (3% employee)
• Flexible, values-driven working culture

How to Apply 
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button.

Closing date: 21 April 2026
First Stage Interview: w/b 27 April 2026
Second Stage Interview: wb 4 May 2026
Please Note: All speculative/ direct CVs sent will be forwarded to The Talent Set for review. 

Commitment to Diversity 
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process. 

Job Title: Fundraising Manager

Reporting: to Chief Executive

Contract: Permanent

Hours: Part-time role, 32 hours a week

Benefits: 29 days annual leave (incl. bank holidays) pro rata, pension scheme contributions, 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme

Location: Mostly home-working with regular visits to The Avenues, London W10.

Job purpose

· Forward-plan funding streams to ensure a smooth and regular flow of income that meets The Avenues’ budget (currently £1.2m p.a., much of which has been secured for the next 18 months).

· Develop existing and new relationships with funders to maximise immediate and long-term income for the organisation and its various projects.

· Write compelling proposals and applications that secure significant income from trusts and foundations, coordinating input from across The Avenues team.

· Research and identify new prospects from a diversity of sources with a view to securing medium and large grants for The Avenues.

Accountabilities and responsibilities

·  Identify and develop opportunities from a range of trusts, foundations and grant-making bodies.

· Draft, submit and manage the progress of all funding applications for The Avenues’ priority projects (approximately 30-40 applications per year).

· Develop fundraising proposal budgets in collaboration with Programme and Finance colleagues, ensuring needs are accurately costed and aligned with donor requirements.

· Work with colleagues to develop new project ideas that fit within The Avenues’ organisational goals and within budgets that meet funders’ criteria.

·  Handle the post-grant paperwork, notifying the team and updating our records.

· Develop and manage positive relationships with funders, including necessary communications with grants officers, potential major donors, corporate donors and community supporters.

· Manage the pipeline of applications and fundraising database; providing financial reporting and other management information to colleagues on a timely basis.

· Work with the Chief Executive, trustees and community volunteers to help organise our fundraising events (dinner-auction, party, quiz night, marathon). Assisting with the smooth-running of these events, including writing and producing communication materials.

·  Write the quarterly email newsletter for our supporter mailing list.

· Manage and optimise the charity’s CRM system (Beacon), ensuring fundraising contact data is accurate, well maintained, and used effectively.

· Perform other duties as required by the Chief Executive to the overall direction and running of the charity and develop productive relationships with external stakeholders.

Experience and skills

·  Excellent writing skills with the ability to write concise and creative bids.

· 3+ years’ proven track record in a fundraising position, with a focus on trusts/foundations and public sector income streams.  (Or, you may equally have experience in sales and marketing in a commercial environment.)

·  Skilled at budgeting and presenting financial information in easy-to-understand formats.

·  Relationship builder and collaborative worker.

·  A creative and proactive approach to problem-solving

·  High standard of software literacy (Office software, Mailchimp and internet).

·  Highly effective verbal communicator, able to build rapport quickly and engage a wide range of stakeholders with confidence and credibility.

·  Degree or equivalent relevant qualification

Personal attributes and attitudes

·  Self-motivated and hard-working.

·  Committed to improving youth services and the lives of disadvantaged children.

·  Excellent influencing and negotiation skills.

·  Able to tackle challenges constructively and creatively find ways forward.

·  Tactful and amiable, with the ability to communicate at all levels with a variety of donors.

·  Proactive and eager to learn, with a hands-on approach and willingness to take initiative and get stuck in where needed

END

We are looking for a CRM & Data Officer to take ownership of HorseWorld’s supporter data and CRM system—ensuring it is accurate, compliant and actively enabling our fundraising to grow.

At HorseWorld, we believe in the power of horses to change lives.

For over 70 years, we’ve rescued, rehabilitated and rehomed horses, ponies and donkeys in need. Today, that work reaches further—through our Discovery programme, we partner rescued horses with children and young people who are struggling in mainstream education, helping them rebuild confidence, connection and a sense of possibility.

We are growing our impact, and with that comes the need for strong foundations.
Behind every donation, every supporter, every horse and every young person we reach, there is data we must be able to trust.

This role sits at the heart of that.

The Role

This is a pivotal role within our fundraising team. You will be the person who makes sure our systems work, our income is correctly recorded and reconciled, and our data is handled with care and integrity.

You will work closely with fundraising and finance colleagues, and with the CEO, to ensure that our data not only meets regulatory requirements, but supports better decisions, stronger relationships and increased income.

This is not just about maintaining data.
It’s about making it useful.

Key Responsibilities

CRM & Data Management

• Own and manage HorseWorld’s CRM system, ensuring data accuracy, integrity and usability
• Act as system administrator and lead on any future development or upgrades
• Produce reports and insights to support fundraising performance and decision-making
• Support colleagues to use the CRM effectively through guidance and training

Data Protection & Compliance

• Work with the CEO to ensure compliance with GDPR and relevant fundraising regulations
• Act as a key point of contact for data protection queries and audits
• Maintain clear processes, documentation and staff understanding of data responsibilities

Fundraising Operations & Financial Reconciliation

• Reconcile all fundraising income through the CRM with the Accounts team on a monthly basis
• Ensure all income streams (online platforms, standing orders, events, etc.) are accurately recorded and monitored
• Support fundraising activities and events with data and financial processes

Gift Aid

• Manage and improve Gift Aid processes to ensure efficiency and compliance
• Submit accurate monthly claims and maintain robust records
• Ensure readiness for HMRC inspection at all times

Lottery Administration

• Record and monitor lottery income
• Complete required returns to the Gambling Commission
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements

About You

You are someone who takes pride in getting things right.

You are naturally organised, detail-focused and comfortable working with data, systems and processes. You understand that accuracy matters—not just for compliance, but because it underpins trust, income and impact.

You are equally comfortable working independently and as part of a team, and you bring a practical, problem-solving mindset to your work.

You don’t just keep systems running—you look for ways to make them better.

Experience & Skills

Essential

• Experience working with CRM systems and managing data accurately and systematically
• Strong Excel and IT skills
• Experience in administrative roles involving finance and/or donor data
• Confidence in reconciling income and producing reports
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking

Desirable

• Experience in a fundraising or charity environment
• Knowledge of Gift Aid and charity income processes
• Experience with Beacon CRM or similar systems
• Understanding of GDPR and data protection requirements

Personal Qualities

• Aligned with HorseWorld’s values: Caring, Collaborative, Proactive, Adaptable, Inclusive
• A collaborative team player who builds strong working relationships
• A proactive problem-solver with a “can do” attitude
• Comfortable taking ownership and working with minimal supervision
• Motivated by the impact of our work with horses and young people

Why This Role Matters

Every donation we receive, every supporter we engage, and every programme we deliver relies on data being accurate, compliant and usable.

In this role, your work will directly support:

• the growth of our fundraising income
• the strength of our supporter relationships
• and ultimately, the number of horses and young people we can help

It’s a role with real responsibility—and real impact.

About us

There aren’t many organisations that can say they’ve been serving their community for over 550 years. Croydon Almshouses (CA) can and we’re proud to be the oldest charity in Croydon, rooted in a long-standing commitment to local people and place.

Since 1447, we’ve provided almshouse accommodation to older people with a connection to Croydon who are negatively affected by poverty. For the past 40 years, we’ve also awarded grants to voluntary, community and faith sector organisations, and individuals across the Borough.

Now, our focus is firmly on what comes next. Our vision is to create thriving communities where everybody can live with dignity and independence, using our resources and agility to reduce the impact of poverty on people in Croydon.

To help us deliver this, we’re recruiting an experienced and creative Communications Lead, who is a values-led team player, who demonstrates exceptional attention to detail and strong communication skills to support CA as we expand our reach across the wider Croydon community.

The opportunity

Working closely with the CEO, you will lead the development and delivery of a multi-channel communications plan that strengthens our reputation, amplifies our voice, and ensures our message reaches the communities we serve.

This is a unique opportunity to join a small, dedicated team where your work will have visible and meaningful impact. You will bring clarity, consistency, and creativity to all aspects of CA’s communications.

About you

You are a skilled communicator who understands how to craft compelling messages for different audiences. You are as comfortable planning strategy as you are creating engaging content, and you thrive in a collaborative environment where flexibility and initiative are key.

Essential criteria:

· Exceptional written and verbal communication skills

· Strong understanding of strategic communications and planning

· Experience creating engaging content across multiple channels and for varied audiences

· Ability to develop and deliver clear, consistent messaging

· Experience supporting or managing social media and digital communications

· Strong organisational skills with excellent attention to detail

· Ability to measure and evaluate the impact of communications activity

Interested?

If you are an experienced Communications Lead wanting to make a real impact at an ambitious local organisation, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now to become Croydon Almshouses’ next Communications Lead and help create thriving communities where people can live with dignity and independence.

For further information please contact MacLaine Adler, Governance Manager to request the full Job Description or for a discussion about the role.

Closing date: Tuesday 28th April, 9am

Interview date: Tuesday 5th May, in person

Application process: CV and covering letter addressing why you would like to join Croydon Almshouses and how you meet the key criteria in the person specification (max 2-pages).

Quartet Community Foundation (Quartet) is a leading independent charity and grant-maker in the West of England supporting local charities and community groups in Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. At the heart of this, is our expert philanthropy service, built on trusted long-term relationships with our donors.

Founded in 1986, Quartet is one of the first community associations in the UK, setting out to create a permanent source of support for local people. Quartet is part of a UK-wide network of 47 community foundations and a global movement of over 1,800 foundations championing ‘local giving for local need’.

Quartet this year celebrated the landmark of awarding £80 million in grants to communities over our 37-year history. In 2025 alone £5 million of grants were given to over 1,000 organisations. With a growing endowment fund currently at £64 million and over 300 named fundholder accounts, the future is bright and the opportunities significant for Quartet and our team.

The Role

The Head of Finance is responsible for the financial systems and accounting of Quartet to ensure the sound financial management of the organisation. They also oversee the effective delivery of many of Quartet’s administrative operations to enable the smooth running of the charity.

Our Board of Trustees, Leadership Team and all staff are committed to the principles of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and this commitment runs through all of our work and services. The Head of Finance will be required to uphold these principles and commitment.

Responsible to: The Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The postholder will be working closely with staff throughout Quartet, the Board of Trustees and the Finance and Investment Committee.

About you

To succeed in this role you will:

• Be a qualified accountant or QBE with substantial financial and management accounting experience.
• Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and demonstrable experience of leading and engaging with finance and other corporate functions to develop a mature and rounded service.
• Have an excellent understanding of financial and management accounting processes, financial reporting and audit planning as well as being adept at managing both your own and your team’s priorities.
• Leading on communication with Investment Managers, analysing their quarterly performance and advising the CEO, Finance and Investment Committee and Board on risks and returns.
• Working with the CEO, Leadership team and trustees, you will be a strong leader able to communicate well with your peers and teams members and have resilience to adapt quickly to changing priorities and demands from internal and external stakeholders.
• Knowledge of SORP, tax and VAT

In return for your hard work and dedication you will enjoy a wide variety of benefits including:

• Positive, collaborative, inclusive working culture
• Flexible working arrangements (subject to agreement and the requirements of the job)
• 25 days annual leave plus public holidays (all annual leave pro rata)
• Extra 3 days extra annual leave between Christmas and New Year (office is closed)
• Extra 1 days annual birthday leave
• Extra length of service annual leave after 5 years and 10 years.
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Health Benefits scheme via the Hospital Saturday Fund
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• 6% employer pension contribution after successful probation period completion, with pension contributions being backdated to the joining date.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Closing date 26th April

Interview date 11th May

This is not a “keep things ticking over” role.

This is a build, grow, and lead role.

We are looking for someone who sees opportunity everywhere. Someone who doesn’t wait for funding rounds to open—but creates them. Someone who can turn a powerful mission into compelling investment cases that unlock serious income.

If that’s you, keep reading.

About Us

The Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre (MDSC) is a specialist charity transforming access to physical therapies for people with muscular dystrophy across the Midlands.

Founded by people with lived experience, we now support 700+ individuals through long-term therapy and community support—something almost no one else in the UK provides at this scale.

We’re ambitious. We’re growing. And we’re ready to take our income generation to the next level.

The Opportunity

This is a brand-new senior role, created to drive our next phase of growth.

You’ll work directly with the CEO to:

• Build a bold, multi-year income strategy
• Secure unrestricted and multi-year funding
• Open up new income streams (corporate, major donors, partnerships)
• Shape the story of MDSC so it lands powerfully with funders
• Build relationships and keep them for the support of our long term journey

Right now, fundraising is full of potential.
With the right person in post—it becomes transformational.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

Strategy & Leadership

• Design and deliver a 3-year income generation strategy
• Build a strong, diverse funding pipeline
• Spot and secure high-value opportunities
• Work with the CEO to influence and report to the Board

Income Generation

• Lead on trusts & foundations, corporate partnerships, and major donors
• Develop new fundraising models and propositions
• Create compelling cases for support and funding bids
• Build long-term, strategic partnerships

Relationships & Impact

• Own supporter stewardship—make funders feel like true partners
• Lead on impact reporting and storytelling
• Ensure everything we communicate shows real, measurable change

Systems & Performance

• Strengthen internal fundraising systems and CRM use
• Track pipeline, performance, and return on investment
• Ensure compliance (GDPR, best practice, etc.)

Growth

This role is designed to grow.
You won’t just deliver income—you’ll help build the future fundraising team and structure.

Who We’re Looking For

You’ll likely bring:

Experience

• A strong track record of securing funding (£££)
• Experience developing and delivering fundraising strategy
• Success with multi-year and unrestricted income
• Confidence working across multiple income streams

Skills

• A brilliant storyteller—you can make people care, fast
• Commercial mindset—you think in terms of investment and return
• Strong organisation—you can manage pipeline, priorities, and pressure
• Financial confidence—budgets, forecasts, funding models

Mindset

• Proactive. You don’t wait—you make things happen
• Creative. You see opportunities others miss
• Tenacious. You follow through until it lands
• Collaborative. You bring people with you
• Values-led. You care deeply about impact

Why This Role

· You’ll work directly with the CEO—high influence, high visibility

· You’ll shape a function from the ground up

· You’ll have real freedom to innovate and build

· You’ll see the direct impact of your work on people’s lives

This is the kind of role people look back on and say:
 “That’s where everything changed.”

Our Offer

• Salary: £42–45k per annum – reviewed annually
• Pension contribution (3%)
• 22 days annual leave + bank holidays (+ increases with service)
• Discretionary organisation Christmas Shutdown 
• Generous training & development budget
• Real opportunities for rapid progression and growth
• Supportive, ambitious, and purpose-driven team

Harris Hill is working with a wonderful charity, who seek a Public Fundraising Manager on a 3dpw basis, to cover a permanent recruitment period of up to 3 months. 

Pay rate is £150 - 185 per day, with 2dpw in the office, but flexible on this. A consultancy basis of £250-300 per day mat be considered.

The post holder will be responsible for leading on their individual giving, in memory, legacies, challenge events and community fundraising activities. You will line manage a Fundraising Support Executive and will work closely with the Chief Executive, the Director of Fundraising and the wider fundraising team.

To be considered, the postholder will need experience in the following:

Experience of setting and delivering short, medium and long term plan in fundraising.

Experience of or previous involvement in setting budgets and reporting income.

Experience of fundraising in one or more of our key public fundraising areas (individual giving, challenge events, community fundraising, legacy and in memory fundraising).

Exceptional relationship builder with strong emotional intelligence and influencing skills.

Creative and ambitious approach to fundraising with evidence of going above and beyond in your role

Experience of using a CRM system, such as Donorfy (or other form of managing and tracking supporter engagement).

Previous line management experience or informal management (e.g. volunteers, supporting junior staff, mentoring, etc.)

If you would like to find out more about this great opportunity, please apply for further details.

We are looking for an Operations Manager to take ownership of the systems and outcomes that allow hundreds of students to learn each week - from how enquiries become enrolments, to how teaching schedules are organised across venues and schools, and how families experience the service day-to-day.

You will be responsible not just for managing these areas, but for the results they produce. You will work alongside a small team, while taking primary responsibility for how this area of the organisation operates.

Greenwich Music School is a charity providing high-quality music education for children and adults across South East London and online. Founded and led by musicians, we have grown steadily by combining strong teaching with a thoughtful and well-organised experience for students and families. Each week hundreds of students learn with our teachers in venues, partner schools and online.

As we grow our school-based provision, we are continuing to improve how the organisation works - simplifying processes, strengthening how we support teachers, and making progress and communication clearer for students and families.

You will work closely with the CEO and Principal, but day-to-day you will manage your own priorities and move work forward independently.

How the role works day-to-day

• Much of this role is carried out independently, often working remotely or on your own
• You will be responsible for managing your time and priorities without close day-to-day supervision
• Much of the work is practical and operational, focused on making day-to-day systems run clearly and efficiently.
• There is regular communication with the CEO, Principal and wider team, but the role does not involve a shared office environment
• You will need to be comfortable working in this way over extended periods
 

What you will be responsible for:

Student journey and communication

• Own day-to-day communication with parents through our support inbox and ticketing system
• Ensure enquiries and issues are handled promptly and clearly
• Work with a colleague to resolve queries efficiently
• Maintain a consistently high standard of written communication with families

Scheduling and capacity

• Manage teaching schedules across venues and partner schools
• Ensure teaching capacity is used effectively
• Identify and fill gaps in timetables
• Maintain accurate scheduling data in our booking platform

Enrolment and conversion

• Monitor enquiries and take practical steps to improve enquiry-to-enrolment conversion
• Ensure families are guided clearly towards appropriate lessons or courses
• Reduce unnecessary delays between enquiry and enrolment

Operational systems

• Develop and maintain clear processes and SOPs
• Improve how we use templates, saved replies and automation tools
• Simplify processes where possible, reducing unnecessary steps and communication

Operational insight

• Track and report key metrics such as capacity, enrolment and retention
• Spot patterns in enquiries, withdrawals or complaints
• Work with the leadership team to improve systems over time
 

This role suits someone who

• enjoys taking ownership of how things work in a small organisation
• looks for ways to simplify systems and reduce unnecessary friction
• thinks carefully about the experience for students, parents, teachers and colleagues
• focuses on the most important improvements rather than trying to do everything
• is comfortable keeping things running while building and improving systems at the same time
• writes clearly and thoughtfully, even in difficult situations
 

This role may not suit someone who

• prefers highly structured environments with established systems already in place
• is looking for a primarily strategic or managerial role rather than hands-on operational work
• prefers working in a busy office environment with constant interaction
• finds working independently or managing multiple priorities without close supervision challenging
 

What we are looking for

You might currently work in operations, programme management or service delivery in a small organisation. The key thing is that you are comfortable taking ownership of outcomes and improving processes over time.

Strong candidates typically:
• write clearly and calmly, even in difficult situations
• enjoy improving systems and reducing recurring problems
• are comfortable working independently and taking responsibility for their work
• pay close attention to detail while keeping sight of the bigger picture
• communicate clearly with colleagues and move work forward without needing constant supervision

Experience in education is welcome but not essential.

What success looks like

Within the first year:

• teaching capacity across venues and schools is actively managed and well utilised
• enquiries convert more consistently into enrolments
• operational processes are documented and working reliably
• written communication with families is clear and supportive
• the organisation runs smoothly day-to-day, with the CEO and Principal spending less time on reactive operational matters

Chief Impact Officer (International Human Rights/Modern Slavery Charity)

Location: Remote in the UK (with regular travel to Manchester) | Salary: up to £80,000 per annum | Contract: Full-time

The Opportunity

Civitas Recruitment are delighted to be working with a leading international, anti-trafficking charity who are seeking a Chief Impact Officer to spearhead global Programmes, Policy, Training and Survivor Inclusion. This executive role will shape and scale programme strategy, champion innovation, and ensure delivery remains survivor-centred, rights-based and grounded in evidence. Working closely with the CEO and senior colleagues, you will strengthen impact, influence systemic change, build a learning culture through MEAL-driven insight, and support sustainable programmatic funding across an international portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

Lead global programme strategy and innovation, aligning delivery to the organisation’s long-term framework and theory of change.

Oversee development and quality of programmes across the Global North and Global South, including partnership and new product development.

Strengthen MEAL capacity, data consistency and digitisation, using insights to drive quality, learning and continuous improvement.

Provide executive oversight of operational procedures, safeguarding, due diligence, governance and programmatic risk management.

Lead the global Policy and Research agenda; build relationships and represent the organisation in relevant forums and platforms.

Oversee global learning and training functions, developing prevention/awareness and internal/external training products.

Accountability for programme budgets and funding needs; support grants, reporting and donor engagement alongside fundraising colleagues.

Embed survivor-empowering approaches across programmes, policy, learning and external engagement.

The Candidate

Significant senior leadership experience within an international organisation, with a strong track record of scaling impact.

Strong experience of international programme leadership, including remote/multi-cultural teams and complex operating environments.

Expertise in MEAL and using data, research and learning agendas to improve programme quality and strategic decision-making.

Proven ability to influence policy and advocacy, including oversight/commissioning of research and engagement with senior stakeholders.

Strong financial and operational acumen, including budget oversight and managing grants from a programmatic perspective (compliance and reporting).

Confident communicator at Board and external senior stakeholder level; strong written and verbal skills, including public speaking.

Experience leading through risk and crisis management, with a diplomatic and collaborative approach.

Highly desirable: sector experience in modern slavery/human trafficking or closely aligned human rights fields.

How to Apply

Please apply immediately or further infomation and informal dicussion, please contact Syed at Civitas Recruitment. Rolling applications. 

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join a growing team at the Academy, where you will play a pivotal role in delivering:

- An MEL system that drives real change. You’ll go beyond collecting interesting data - focusing instead on strengthening MEL practices to generate meaningful insights, ask the right evaluation questions, and ultimately support improvements that enhance the Academy’s overall impact.
- A high-quality internal support function. You’ll ensure colleagues across the organisation receive timely, expert MEL guidance, advice and hands-on support, enabling them to make informed, evidence-based decisions.
- A robust evidence base on the effectiveness of the Academy’s work. Your contribution will help shape the future programme portfolio and strengthen the Academy’s fundraising efforts by demonstrating clear value and impact.

In this role, you will provide expert support to MEL activity across a diverse product portfolio. This includes supporting the development of MEL plans and frameworks, updating MEL tools and assisting on data collection, cleaning, analysis and management. Your primary focus will be championing the use of data and evidence to inform and improve product design across the Academy.

Our location

Our light, spacious head office is based in a fantastic location in central London with views over St James’s Park and close to the West End. We operate hybrid, flexible working practices with a baseline for office-based working of a mandatory weekly team day plus further days each week as required for the role and the Academy.

Who are we?

Engineering matters. It shapes our everyday lives, from our ability to turn the lights on, have a hot shower and commute into work, to the mobile phones we rely on to keep connected. It also plays a vital role in addressing some of the biggest challenges facing society today, from climate change to global health pandemics and cyber threats.

The Royal Academy of Engineering is a charity that harnesses the power of engineering to build a sustainable society and an inclusive economy that works for everyone. In collaboration with our Fellows and partners, we’re growing talent and developing skills for the future, driving innovation, and building global partnerships, and influencing policy and engaging the public. Together we’re working to tackle the greatest challenges of our age. 

With a diverse workforce and an inclusive and supportive culture, we look to attract candidates from wide and different backgrounds who have a passion for the role engineering plays in society. Our aim is to make the Academy the best place to work for the staff we have and those we seek to attract.

Why work for us?

We’re looking for people who are driven to make the world a better place. If you’re passionate about what you do and want to work collaboratively with talented colleagues to make change happen now and for future generations, we want you to get in touch.

This is the perfect time to join us. We have a dynamic, visionary CEO, a strong leadership team and an ambitious and exciting strategy. The value we bring as experts in our field and change agents is highly recognised and makes the Academy a motivating place to be. Our work today builds on a long, proud history with a focused and ambitious future which we’d love you to be part of.

We are looking for talented people who want to make a difference, to join our team – is this you?

For more information and to apply, please visit our careers page.

Closing date: 20 April 2026.

Interview date: w/c 5 May 2026.

With a diverse workforce and an inclusive and supportive culture, we look to attract candidates from wide and different backgrounds who have a passion for the role engineering plays in society. Our aim is to make the Academy the best place to work for the staff we have and those we seek to attract.

As Director of External Affairs across the Bild Group of four small charities (with collective turnover of approx. £3m/yr), you will have a deep commitment to human rights and improving people’s lives.

You will provide strategic direction and leadership to the External Relations function across all four charities in the group, taking overall responsibility for and providing thought-leadership on our strategic approach to policy, influencing, public affairs, stakeholder engagement. 

You will play a lead role in planning, developing, and implementing the communication and external relations and wider engagement strategic plan to grow awareness and profile of Bild, Respond, Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and ACT.

By sharing the impact of our work and programmes in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities, autism and /or mental health conditions, you will support Bild in becoming the sector leading provider of organisational and workforce development (and RRN in becoming the leading charity in reducing restrictive practices globally – and Respond as leaders in trauma informed therapy).

You will champion Bild and RRN’s brand, vision, mission and values acting as an ambassador for the organisation both internally and externally to partners, stakeholders and media.

Key Responsibilities and Duties: 

Strategic Leadership:  

• Develop and implement an integrated communications and external relations strategy across the four charities in the group to raise our profile and to influence change which positively impacts on our beneficiaries, aligning media, campaigning, and public affairs with the charity’s mission and strategic priorities 

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team including Membership and Events Officer, Resources Coordinator and comms team as required 

Comms & Marketing:

• Plan, develop and implement strategic communications and marketing plans to maximise awareness of the Bild Group of charities across the broad spectrum of communications disciplines including media relations, stakeholder management, influencer engagement, ethical (impact focused) marketing, social and new media and the production of new materials and resources 

• Write, develop and produce materials such as infographics, press releases, briefing documents, media statements and online information suitable for stakeholders, including people with lived experience

• Ensure effective marketing across all four charities focusing on impact and including ensuring we attend a range of external events and that all four websites are best practice. 

Influencing & Public Affairs:  

• Working with the CEO, you will drive policy change by developing strategies to influence key decision makers through building relationships with parliamentarians, government departments, and sector stakeholders to ensure the charity's policy agenda is impactful 

• Lead proactive and reactive media engagement, calls and requests for information in order to capitalise on suitable opportunities for maximising the reach and impact of all four charities

• Build our credibility as a thought leader in the sector 

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:  

• Build and sustain strategic alliances with senior civil servants, civil society groups, and community partners to increase the organization's influence and impact 

• Develop effective stakeholder relationship management processes that ensure partnerships of all levels are provided with a rich, immersive engagement experience with the organisation and the work that we do 

• Identify, liaise with and ensure positive relationships with key stakeholders – internal and external including media, government departments, partners, charities, providers, customers, other relevant parties to secure maximum impact for all four charities and their beneficiaries

Reputation, Brand Management & Marketing:  

• Champion the Bild group brands, promoting the mission, values and impact of the organisation and ensuring consistent, engaging narratives and high-quality storytelling across all external channels

• Shaping the charity's profile and protecting its reputation through media relations, digital engagement, and consistent key messaging and building our credibility as thought leaders in sector. 

Membership, Events & Communities:  

• By ensuring appropriate, effective and engaging communications to all relevant audiences and stakeholders, your role will support the growth and development of our membership, Communities of Practice and the event programme (including webinars and conferences).

• Effectively plan, manage and lead a range of events for the Bild group of charities and associated marketing and communications

• Develop framework for Communities of Practice and strategy for engagement and growth 

• Supporting Bild and RRN spokespeople with PR and media outreach

• Keep abreast of communications and engagement activity within the sector and demonstrate an awareness of the impact these may have on existing and future communications activity

General Responsibilities 

• Contribute to evaluation and assessment of results against KPIs and tracking activity

• Allocate, manage and evaluate budget spend

• Identify resource requirements for activity across Bild group

• Develop and maintain systems, databases and procedures to support Bild group communication activities

• Plan, monitor, appraise and report progress of activity regularly with an innate understanding of how this supports activity across the Bild group

• Plan, manage and oversee budgetary spend related to outsourcing specialist activities such as video editing and design

• Ensure communications and marketing work complies with data protection and other legal, professional and agency requirements, standards and policies

• Support the senior leadership team on any activity as required. 

Personal Development  

• Be part of a culture of quality in all areas of communications, PR and marketing

• Participate and contribute to individual performance appraisal and supervision sessions

• Keep abreast of relevant initiatives and developments within the adult health and social care, education & disability sector and the wider communications / engagement profession

• Undertake relevant training, as necessary including accessing new systems and software as required to support the role.

Organisational Responsibilities: 

• Access and work within Bild’s policies and procedures.  

• Attend internal cycle of team meetings relevant to this role.  

• Engage with line management, supervision (where appropriate) and appraisal process.  

• Comply with data protection regulations, ensuring that information on clients, employees, volunteers and other stakeholders remains confidential.  

• Take responsibility for personal learning and development with support from line manager.  

• Work in a manner that facilitates equal opportunities and inclusion for all.  

• Remain professional and respectful at all times, promoting positive relations with all those we encounter in our work.  

• Maintain health and safety and risk awareness for self and others across the organisation.  

• Undertake any other duties that Bild may require within the remit of this role.  

This job description does not form part of the contract of employment. It is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review with the postholder at their annual appraisal.  

Person Specification  

Job Title 

Director of External Relations 

• Exceptional copy writing and verbal communication skills

• Good presenting, negotiating and influencing skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build mutually beneficial relationships

• The ability to work effectively within a small team

• Ability to work under pressure, and plan, manage, and adapt own workload

• A flexible, proactive and problem-solving approach to work

• A motivated attitude and ability to work on own initiative 

• A commitment to human rights and modelling accessibility and inclusion throughout activity

• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as demanded by the post

• Fit to undertake the duties of the post. 

Experience/Skills/Competencies 

Essential 

• Significant experience working in communications, policy and PR with demonstrable success

• PR and media management experience, including both online and traditional PR

• Experience of managing and implementing social media plans, including post development, scheduling, evaluation and monitoring feedback

• Experience of overseeing the design and production of print and electronic publications, including website management and development

• Experience of managing CRM systems and ensuring effective data capture and utilising data to inform decision making

• Ability to analyse data and shape results into reports that inform decision making

• Ability to build effective relationships and networks and establish credibility for Bild, RRN, Respond and Bild ACT 

• Ability to work collaboratively and develop positive relationships with colleagues, members and wider stakeholders

• Demonstrated digital comms / social media skills and understanding of emerging digital marketing tools and platforms

• Ability to use a variety of IT packages/databases including CRM systems.

• Experience managing budgets and associated reporting

• Ability to work remotely and regularly travel to in person events

• Time management skills and ability to prioritise workload under pressure as part of a small but vibrant team

• Strong awareness and interest in news/current affairs/politics and the broader third sector, social care and education sector. 

Desirable 

• Experience working in the not-for-profit sector, preferably in another disability and/or membership charity

• Strong understanding of education, health, social care, disability and not for profit environment

• Strong media contacts within relevant trade sector publications

• Ability to use externally managed media databases (such as Agility etc.)

• Experience with conferences, webinars and hybrid events. 

• Experience supporting and manging a remote team

Education and Qualifications: 

Other Requirements: 

• Commitment to anti-discriminatory practice and equal opportunities and able to apply awareness of diversity issues to all areas of work.  

• Regular travel to attend meetings and events. 

• Occasional evening meetings.  

Legal requirements: 

• Enhanced DBS check. 

Title: Director of Data Science, AI & Research

Reporting To: Chief Executive Officer

Location: Hybrid, working from home and our office based in West London

Salary: £95,000 - £100,000 per annum, dependant on experience 
We aim to be transparent about remuneration at MHI. As a charitable organisation, salaries for this role are predetermined and not negotiable. Please consider the advertised salary before applying.

Hours of Work: 40 hours per week, inclusive of a daily 1 hour paid lunch break

Contract: Permanent

Benefits:

• 25 days annual leave per year, plus public holidays;
• Company electronic devices;
• Enhanced salary sacrifice pension scheme;
• Private health insurance after completion of probation;
• Eligibility for a Blue Light discount card

Closing Date: 20th April 2026. We will be interviewing on a rolling basis and reserve the right to close the job advert early if we receive a high number of applicants

Job Purpose

The Director of Data Science, AI and Research leads our outstanding Data Insights Team which has expertise across data engineering, analytics, data science, machine learning, generative AI, and psychology, and works to provide insights which enhance our services and which we share with others in the sector, policy makers and politicians, service users and the general public.

The Director of Data Science, AI and Research works directly with the CEO and plays a central role in leading the strategy and development of the organisation, and is responsible for key external relationships across government, the mental health sector, funders, and researchers.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing and leading MHI's long-term data insights strategy, including developing and managing external data insights partnerships with academic researchers (e.g., IGHI at Imperial College London), government (e.g., Department of Health and Social Care), and other stakeholders in the sector (e.g., CTL, and other mental health charities), and policy makers.
• Member of the Senior Management Team, contributing to development and delivery of organisational strategy, and acting as MHI spokesperson/representative where relevant.
• Leading many of MHI’s key external relationships, including those with key supporters and funders such as The Jensen and Lori Huang Family Foundation, Google, the Wellcome Trust, and AWS.
• Recruiting, retaining, and managing members of the Data Insights Team
• Analysis and reporting of service data and data insights, to support decision making within MHI, to help develop new products, and for external use (e.g., media, funders, keyword partners).
• Writing funding applications to support the data insights work, and managing relationships with funders including annual reporting and updates.
• Managing relationships with external contractors who support the Data Insights Team (e.g., AWS, AWS suppliers, AI and data engineering support).

Person Specification

Essential

Strong experience with recruiting, retaining, and managing data professionals /  scientists.
Experience with developing data and organisational strategy at a senior level.
Deep understanding of data analytics, data science, AI and machine learning, and qualitative approaches.
Experience engaging with a broad range of  senior internal and external stakeholders.
Demonstrable knowledge and experience in mental health / psychology / neuroscience.
Excellent attention to detail, rigour, and thoroughness.
This role is subject to eligibility to work in the UK, plus satisfactory background and reference checks. 

We understand that AI is increasingly part of everyday life, and you might choose to use it when putting together your application. While AI can be a helpful tool, we ask that anything you submit reflects your own skills, experiences, and perspective. We value authenticity and integrity, and we want to see what you uniquely bring to our team and why our mission resonates with you personally.