Chief executive officer jobs in City of london, england

Context and Purpose of the Role

After five years of dedicated leadership, GROW’s Managing Director is moving on. We are now seeking an exceptional, values-led leader to guide GROW through the next phase of our 2030 strategy and help realise our ambition to become a movement-shaping force within agroecology.

GROW is entering a pivotal stage of growth. Our focus now is on strengthening team capacity, centring community voice, developing pathways to leadership and employment, deepening hyper-local networks, and contributing more visibly to the agroecology sector.

With strong financial foundations, a committed team, and a long-standing partnership with a progressive secondary school, this is a rare opportunity to lead an organisation uniquely positioned at the intersection of farming, education, and community action.

The Managing Director will provide clear strategic direction and overall leadership, ensuring GROW remains responsibly-governed, financially resilient, and grounded in its agroecological values. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, they will nurture and inspire a multidisciplinary team of 16 employees and freelancers, strengthen key partnerships, and guide the organisation’s continued development and impact.

Job Title: Managing Director
Reports to: Board of Trustees
Salary: £48,000-£53,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full Time, 40 hours per week (9am-5pm with 1-hour paid lunch break)
Location: Hybrid. Minimum 3 days a week on site at The Totteridge Academy, Barnet Lane, N20 8AZ (more days on site expected for the first 3-6 months)
Pension: GROW participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 30% off all GROW Farm produce, annual training budget, subsidised lunches, and a generous holiday allowance of 28 days plus bank holidays.
Probation period: 6 months

GROW is a site-based organisation, and our farm sits at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for a Managing Director who is as comfortable talking with students, volunteers and visitors as they are shaping strategy and leading the organisation’s future. This is a role for a thoughtful, adaptable and hands-on leader who can hold the big picture while staying closely connected to our farm, outdoor programmes and the communities we work alongside.

Leadership at GROW is practical, relational and rooted in place. One day you might be gathering feedback from our Student Board of Advisors, listening to how our programmes are working for the young people who shape them. The next, you might be at the farm stall chatting with local community members selling jars of GROW’s homemade pickles. The Managing Director helps ensure that these everyday moments remain central to the organisation.

The successful candidate will lead a small, committed team of 16 staff, nurturing a culture that is collaborative, knowledgeable and grounded in our values. They will guide GROW’s strategic direction while staying attentive to the daily rhythms of farm and school life that make it a vibrant place for learning, growing and connection. 

Trustees recognise the breadth of this role and are committed to strengthening the organisation’s operational capacity. An early priority for the new Managing Director will be to shape and secure support for an additional capacity-building role that complements their leadership and enables GROW to thrive in the years ahead.

1. Strategy, Governance & Risk

• Provide overall leadership and strategic development of the charity.
• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Trustees quarterly.
• Ensure charity policies and legal guidelines are up to date, clearly communicated, and embedded in everyday culture.
• Ensure statutory filings (e.g. Charity Commission, Companies House) are accurate and timely.
• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, including charity law, employment law, data protection, health & safety, safeguarding, and environmental regulations.
• Lead on crisis management and serious incident reporting.
• Prepare high-quality written reports for Board and sub-committee meetings.
• Advise Trustees on strategic opportunities, risks, and sector trends. Support Trustee recruitment, induction, and development.
• Enable Trustees to fulfil their governance responsibilities effectively.
• Engage relevant professional expertise where appropriate to support decision making. 

2. Operations, Education & Farm

• Ensure operational resilience, deputising and covering critical functions during staff absence.
• Work closely with Education Leads to develop the quality of our educational
• programmes, ensuring they align with agroecological principles.
• Ensure thorough Risk Assessments are completed, communicated, and
• implemented for all activities and programmes.
• Support the income generation strategy for the Farm.
• Support the Farm Manager with infrastructure development, including planning permission applications.

3. Finance & Fundraising

• Act as the main point of contact for the charity’s accountants.
• Develop and oversee organisational budgets, leading annual budget-setting and ongoing monthly, quarterly, and forecast reviews.
• Develop and deliver the annual income generation and fundraising strategy with the Head of Fundraising.
• Oversee effective impact reporting with the Head of Fundraising.
• Develop and implement plans to improve cost-efficiency.
• Support the completion of large and complex fundraising bids.

4. Partnerships

• Act as the main point of contact for GROW’s key partner, The Totteridge Academy (TTA), and the Academy Trust, United Learning, to ensure the partnership is effective and positive.
• Build and develop partnerships with schools, youth services, local authority, community growing networks and organisations to support the long-term development of educational programmes and participant recruitment and local environmental impact.

5. Marketing & Profile

• Oversee the charity’s overall marketing and communications strategy.
• Retain strategic oversight of all core marketing and communications, including the press opportunities, charity’s website, printed materials, and promotional content, ensuring that GROW’s voice, values, and impact are communicated clearly and consistently.
• Build and enhance the charity’s public profile through events, speaking engagements, and external representation.

6. People, HR & Safeguarding

• Manage and support the team to effectively perform their roles and develop within GROW, ensuring staff are fully trained and confident with organisational policies.
• Lead the recruitment and onboarding of all staff in line with Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and Safeguarding policies, and Safer Recruitment best practice.
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead and ensure compliance with any safeguarding requirements set by partner school, The Totteridge Academy.
• Be rigorously mindful of child safeguarding at all times, embedding safeguarding policies in everyday culture and remain up to date with relevant legislation and training.
• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.
• Develop progressive internal systems, policies, and training that promote a fair, inclusive, and supportive workplace, grounded in our agroecological principles.
• Ensuring the organisation is GDPR compliant and acts as the Data Protection Lead.

7. Values & Culture

• Act as a role model for GROW’s guiding agroecological principles and organisational values in all internal and external relationships.
• Create a supportive, nurturing, high-trust culture in which staff and freelancers can thrive.
• Champion a culture of reflection, evaluation, and continuous improvement.
• Centre community voice in decision making, governance, and organisational strategy

Direct reports:
Farm Manager
TTA Education Lead
Senior Facilitator
Head of Fundraising
Freelance Programme Leads

This job description is not exhaustive; as a small and evolving charity, flexibility is essential and all staff are expected to take a hands-on approach and support wider organisational needs where required.
 

Person Specification

Essential Personal Qualities

• Strong alignment with GROW’s mission, agroecological principles, and organisational values.
• Ability to lead and nurture a strong, cohesive, and collaborative team intuitively
• and with empathy.
• Resilient and adaptable.
• Calm under pressure.
• Collaborative by nature and solution-focussed in approach.
• Strong commitment to inclusive working practices and social justice.

Essential Experience

• Significant experience working in a Senior Leadership role within a not-for-profit,
• education, and/or environmental sectors.
• Experience of building and maintaining successful partnership work, for example
• with farms, schools, local authorities, funders, and/or community organisations.
• Significant experience of managing and developing staff and freelancers in a
• small team.
• Proven ability to lead organisational strategy and translate it into operational plans.
• Experience working with, and reporting to, a Board or governing body.
• Experience of financial management, including budgets, forecasting, and working with accountants.
• Track record in contributing to fundraising, including securing major bids.
• Strong understanding of governance, compliance, and risk in a regulated environment.
• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth, or community context.
• Understanding of legal, progressive and inclusive HR systems and policies.
• Ability to develop and oversee marketing and communications that clearly articulate organisational mission, build community engagement and support financial sustainability.
• Demonstrable experience handling and reviewing legal documentation, including contracts, leases, and formal agreements.

Essential Skills & Abilities

• Strategic thinker, able to see and drive forward the “big picture” while managing operational detail.
• Skilled and inclusive people manager, able to motivate, develop, and challenge others.
• Excellent, adaptable and confident communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise and manage a broad and competing workload.
• Effective decision-making and ability to work independently with accountability.
• Strong relationship-builder with credibility across diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to lead teams through change and uncertainty.
• Strong organisational and administrative capability.
• Sound judgement and a high level of discretion when handling confidential or sensitive matters.

Desirable

• Experience or knowledge of agroecological farming.
• Experience working with local councils, schools, academy trusts, and authorities.
• Knowledge of charity and regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of the local Barnet area.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

At GROW we’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All qualified and eligible applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, gender identity or expression, race, national origin, religion or belief,
disability, age, sexual orientation or pregnancy and maternity. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and identities, especially those who are under-represented in the charity and food growing sectors. This includes, but is not limited to, people from the global majority, neurodivergent individuals, and those with a range of lived experiences. 

We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of our community and brings a rich mix of perspectives, skills, cultures, and ways of thinking.

“The go-to organisation for a public health perspective”.

(Senior UK Government official)

The Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) is the representative body for Directors of Public Health in the UK. It has a rich heritage, with its origins dating back more than 160 years and is a collaborative organisation working in partnership with others to maximise the voice for public health.

We are now seeking a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through the next phase of its evolution, maintaining and building upon its established reputation and influence. The role requires a wide-ranging set of skills, capabilities and experience, proven leadership and credibility at the highest level. The successful candidate will have strong negotiating and influencing skills, and the ability to work independently, with board-level accountability, and be expected to develop and sustain extensive national networks across local authorities, the NHS, the voluntary sector and central Government. Possessing an adaptability in working practice together with a self-motivated, proactive approach that performs well under pressure, the successful candidate will be educated to Masters level with ongoing study in public health. In addition, they should have senior management training or equivalent experience and a clear record of continuing professional development. Experience should include at least five years in the public health environment, including in policy development, plus a minimum of three years in operational, financial and resource management.

Accountable to our Board of Trustees and the wider membership, the new CEO will develop the strategic direction of the Association and lead the organisation to deliver a rolling medium-term Strategic Business Plan, balanced budgets and effective governance in compliance with company and charity law. An ability to prioritise planned and reactive work programmes to meet the needs of our membership is required, alongside the sourcing and delivery of timely bids for external funding together with the management of staff and resources to ensure value for money and staff wellbeing.

The post holder will support the President, Vice‑President, Board and ADPH Council by applying public health knowledge through teaching, coaching, publishing and presenting as appropriate, maintaining a personal programme of continuing professional development, and be expected to uphold the Association’s values of members first, excellence, collaboration, inclusion and professionalism. Occasional travel, throughout the UK, and flexibility for occasional evening or weekend work will also be necessary.

To apply, submit a CV and a covering letter outlining your leadership experience, strategic achievements and vision for supporting Directors of Public Health across the UK.

This is not a turnaround role, but nor is it a stewardship-only role. We are looking for a CEO to lead the next ambitious phase of Literacy Pirates’ journey: building on strong foundations to deliver a disciplined, digitally enabled phase of national growth. The successful candidate will not be expected to reinvent the mission or abandon the existing strategy. They will be expected to sharpen execution, increase momentum, strengthen the growth engine, and lead the organisation through the next phase of scale. 

The CEO will work closely with a strong Senior Leadership Team and Board to scale the Virtual Ship, strengthen partnerships and income, protect what is distinctive about Literacy Pirates, and ensure the organisation is operationally and financially ready for sustained growth. 

Role purpose 

To lead Literacy Pirates through its next phase of growth by: 

• scaling the Virtual Ship nationally in line with the 2030 strategy; 
• maintaining impact while improving the organisation’s economics and operating model; 
• building the partnerships, income and organisational capacity needed for long-term success; and 
• protecting and evolving the culture, values and quality that make Literacy Pirates distinctive. 

We are looking for a strategic, values-driven and collaborative Charity Director/CEO to lead DS Achieve (a small charity) through its next stage, building on strong foundations to ensure long-term sustainability and meaningful impact for the families we support.

This is a rewarding opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of a small community-focused charity supporting children and young people with Down Syndrome. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic leadership, guide the development of the organisation, and support a committed team to deliver high-quality services for families across Hertfordshire and surrounding areas.

Please see the attached Role Profile for details.

Interim Chief Executive
6‑month contract – Part‑time (21 hours/week)

We are seeking an experienced and confident Interim Chief Executive to lead an organisation through a key period of transition. This role requires a strong, strategic leader with a background in membership organisations, experience managing teams through change, and the ability to represent the organisation effectively across the sector.

Hours: 21 hours per week (potential to start on 28 hours), flexible (some evenings/weekends)
Salary: £80,000 FTE (pro‑rated) + NEST pension
Location: London N1 (hybrid with weekly office presence)
Start date: Late April (Negotiable)
Contract length: 6 months (Maximum)

The role is to rovide interim leadership and clear strategic direction for the development and management of the organisation, establishing a secure foundation that enables it to serve as a beacon of dynamism and innovation within its field. It involves leading and maintaining a high‑performing executive team that delivers services and support to its members, while fostering a collaborative working environment with the non‑executive directors on the governing body.

What we’re looking for:

• Senior leadership experience in a membership organisation
• Experience as a CEO or equivalent
• Ability to lead through complexity and change
• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills
• Understanding of finance and budgets
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Desirable: Knowledge of policy issues affecting allied professions or the wider healthcare landscape

How to Apply

Please submit your CV only via the Prospectus website.

Closing date

10th April – applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early application is encouraged.

Are you an outstanding leader, fundraiser and a natural networker? Do you want to help local communities to take practical action to make a difference to UK seas and shores? 

Sea-Changers is looking for a motivated leader to make a step change at a key point in the organisation’s journey. Sea-Changers’ vision is a future where the UK’s seas and shores are clean and healthy and marine species and habitats are protected. Our grants seek to support communities of Sea-Changers – people who care about the seas and want to take practical action to make a difference. Through our grants we enable diverse, grassroots and community-led marine conservation across the UK.

Doubling our income to over £300,000 in 2025 has catalysed Sea-Changers to move from a volunteer-led charity to a sustainable organisation with a dedicated staff team. To enable this, we are seeking to appoint our first Executive Director. This new role will work alongside the Co-Founders and our Board of Trustees and lead the transition from a volunteer-led operation to a staff-led organisation.

As a driven individual, you will build on our success — strengthen partnerships, expand our impact, and help more communities to protect the ocean. Supported by a strong group of volunteers and an impressive Board, the Executive Director will be comfortable working at both a strategic and operation level, and ‘hands on’. By the end of 2027 it is our expectation you will take full responsibility for the strategic leadership and overall operational delivery of Sea-Changers.

This is an extraordinary opportunity for the right individual. It is a chance to build on our success to date, to forge new partnerships with our funders, to motivate and inspire our inspiring volunteer team and to engage with our wide community of applicants. Through Sea-Changers, the Executive Director has the rare chance to deliver a lasting legacy for UK marine conservation.

Strategic leadership, increasing organisational income and managing a motivated team of volunteers are essential aspects to the role. A passion for the marine environment is key, as is a working understanding of UK marine policy. We want someone who passionately advocates for Sea-Changers, who can communicate confidently and credibly at all levels. You will champion our oceans and galvanise others. 

What have you done today that really changed someone’s life?​

At Samaritans, every conversation that saves a life begins with someone choosing to give their time, care and compassion. Together, our team of more than 23,000 volunteers and 300 staff makes Samaritans what it is. Our people work side by side, creating a community that transforms lives every day.

We are now seeking an exceptional Executive Director of People and Culture to join our Executive Leadership Team, reporting directly to the CEO. In this role you’ll influence our strategy and champion the experience, culture and leadership that enables our people to thrive.

This is a rare opportunity to lead with heart and strategy, shaping a culture where volunteers and staff feel valued, connected and empowered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people during crisis so no one feels alone in their darkest moments.
Samaritans is on an ambitious journey of change, we are evolving how we work, strengthening collaboration across the organisation and ensuring our systems, structures, culture and leadership enable us to meet growing need for our life-saving listening services.

You could not be joining us at a more pivotal time and the experience of our people has never been more important. We want Samaritans to be a place where people feel valued, heard and able to contribute fully to our cause. A place where connection, collaboration and compassion shape how we work together, so that we can continue to be there for all who need us now and in the years ahead in our mission to reduce suicide rates.

​As Executive Director of People and Culture, you’ll play a central role in our future. Every decision you make, every strategy you implement, and the culture you help us to shape within this role will matter to many, because when it comes to suicide, tomorrow really is too late.​

​Every day. Every hour. Every life

​

About the Role

As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, you’ll lead the People Strategy and provide executive leadership across the Samaritans community. You’ll ensure that our culture reflects our values of trust, collaboration, inclusion and high performance, connecting staff and volunteers in a shared purpose.

This role spans the full spectrum of people experience across staff and volunteering, from recruitment, engagement, development, and wellbeing, to pay and reward, equity, diversity, inclusion and retention, you’ll be providing strategic oversight that enables our volunteer and paid workforce to deliver life-saving impact.

You’ll help ensure Samaritans is an employer and volunteering organisation of choice, strengthening leadership, culture and people experience to support our ambitious transformation journey.

​

About You

We are looking for a values-driven compassionate and personable senior leader with a proven track record of leading people strategy, cultural transformation and organisational change. You’ll bring:​

• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams in complex organisations

• Expertise in driving culture change with measurable impact

• Ability to inspire and connect with both volunteers and staff at all levels

• Strategic and evidence-based decision-making aligned with organisational goals

• Passion for equity, diversity, inclusion and embedding lived experience in culture and decision-making

• Credibility, integrity, resilience, and the ability to lead people through change in a complex, purpose-driven organisation​

Full outline in the Job description file here. You can also read more about our future proofing plans here -​Our need for change​

You are someone who wants to see the real difference your leadership makes, not just in strategy documents, but in people’s lives.

This is a once-in-a-career opportunity to shape the culture, leadership and people experience that will allow Samaritans to be there for everyone who needs us, now and in the years ahead. Your leadership will directly influence how we connect, support, and empower those who change lives every day.​

If this sounds like you, and you’re looking for your next challenge, we’d love to hear from you.

The contract terms​

• Permanent contract​

• £110,000 per annum plus Benefits​

•  Our full time hours are 35 hours per week, but we are committed to flexible working ​and offer a hybrid approach to working. ​Members of our ELT are expected to be in person at one of our offices at least once a week and sometimes more. Due to the nature of our work, regular evening and weekend working is required of ELT members with time off in lieu given.​

• Hybrid working: Meeting in person and working collaboratively are things we value. This role is linked to our Ewell (Surrey) office with a blend of home working and option to work out of our London office as required.​

Criminal record check (DBS): ​We take safeguarding seriously at Samaritans and follow safe recruitment practices. As this role has direct contact with children and adults at risk, this role will require an Enhanced DBS check with Adults and Children’s Barred Lists.​

At offer stage, as part of the conditional job offer, we will require the candidate to disclose in full, spent and unspent convictions by completing a declaration form. The declaration form will only be seen by those who need to see it as part of the recruitment process. ​

​

About Samaritans:

You’ll join a values-led organisation with a powerful mission and a collaborative culture. We offer flexible hybrid working, excellent benefits, and the chance to make a tangible difference in suicide prevention across the UK and Ireland.

For further information about Samaritans, including our charity structure, values, employee benefits, and application process, please read our recruitment pack for the role here. You can also visit our careers website to access this.​

We recognise the enormous benefits and the social justice imperatives of ensuring diversity at every level of our organisation. Samaritans is wholly committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture and environment where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are. To ensure Samaritans is representative of those we support and who support us, we particularly welcome applications from disabled, racialised minority and LGBTQ+ candidates, as these people are under-represented at Samaritans. 

​

To Apply

Please complete the online application form including the questions outlined below here, and submit these along with your CV, with a brief supporting statement.​

• ​Describe your experience delivering a People and Culture strategy within a complex organisation, what mattered most to you and what did you achieve? (300 words max)

​• Samaritans is on an ambitious journey of organisational change. Whilst describing a specific example where you personally led a significant cultural or organisational transformation, outline what would be important to you and what you would do in this role to quickly be instrumental in leading this change. (300 words max)

•In your own words - what makes you the right person for the Executive Director of People and Culture role at Samaritans? Outline how your unique leadership helps ensure our staff and volunteers feel valued, connected and able to contribute fully to our mission now and in the years to come? (300 words max)

• Our advert begins with the question: “What have you done today that really changed someone’s life?” What does that question mean to you as a leader, and how would you ensure Samaritans people see and feel how valuable their contribution is to our overall mission?(300 words max)​

At Samaritans, human connection is at the heart of everything we do. We do not use AI at any stage during the selection process. Your application will always be carefully reviewed by the recruiting manager or a member of the Talent Attraction Team. We kindly ask that you don’t rely on AI tools for your application answers, or to generate interview answers. We want to see your own unique ideas and writing skills. We want your application to stand out from the rest and showcase your own strengths.​

Applications close at Midnight 6th April.

​

Interviews

All applicants will receive notification of the outcome of their application, at the appropriate time.

The interview process will be in two possibly three stages, allowing enough time to connect with leaders and explore this great opportunity with candidates.​

In-person interviews will be taking place as outlined;​

First stage Interviews: London City Hub Office (Leadenhall ) on 16th or 17th April

Second stage Interviews: Ewell Office (Epsom, Surrey) on Monday 20th April

Final Interviews: Ewell Office (Epsom, Surrey) on Thursday 23rd April​

Please hold these dates in diaries if applying.​

Lead a National Voice Driving Cardiovascular Health in the UK
Chief Executive - HEART UK
Location: Hybrid, with regular national engagement
Salary: Up to £90,000 dependent on experience
Type: Full time

About HEART UK
HEART UK is the nation's leading cholesterol charity - an organisation with a powerful voice, a bold mission, and the potential to transform millions of lives. With high cholesterol affecting up to half of the UK population, our work spans patients, clinicians, policymakers and the general public. The organisation is known and respected for its expertise, evidence based advocacy, and the ability to convene national conversations on cardiovascular health at the highest levels.

HEART UK is a dynamic, values driven charity with a turnover of c.£2m and a deeply committed team. Its influence rivals organisations many times its size, and they are poised for significant strategic growth. This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead a national health charity that is respected across clinical, policy and patient communities, and ready to scale its impact further.

What You Can Look Forward To
As CEO, you will shape the future direction of a charity with profound purpose and national significance.

You will:
* Drive Strategic Growth and Innovation
* Influence National Policy
* Strengthen Income and Build Long Term Sustainability
* Lead and Inspire a Dedicated Team

Why This Role Matters:
* The cause is vast and urgent
* HEART UK's voice is powerful and its influence is national
* The organisational culture is exceptional
* Your impact will be visible and immediate
* You will be leading at a pivotal moment

About You
HEART UK seek a leader who combines emotional intelligence, commercial strength and strategic vision.

Skills and Experience
* Strong track record in charity leadership, senior operational roles, or income generation leadership
* Skilled relationship builder comfortable with high level external representation
* Ability to oversee marketing/comms development (specialist knowledge not essential)
* Experience leading organisations through growth or transformation
* Health sector knowledge helpful but not required - learning will be supported in house

Personal Attributes
* Visionary and strategic, with a passion for public health
* Empathetic, people centred and values driven
* Adaptable, resilient and skilled at navigating complexity
* Confident communicator with natural presence and credibility
* Hands on, practical and comfortable working at pace in a small, high achieving charity

Recruitment Timeline
To ensure equitable access to information and uphold HEART UK's commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the charity will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the Chair/Outgoing CEO. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Tuesday 14th April 2026 and we will send you a link.

Application Deadline: 5pm Friday 1st May 2026
First Interviews: w/c 1st June 2026
Final Interviews: w/c 8th June 2026

How to Apply
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor HEART UK on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People and request a candidate pack in the first instance.
For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

CEO

• Salary for FTE: £62,000 - £75,000 dependant on experience
• 38 hours a week over 5 days (flexibility for right candidate)
• Home-based with travel for events and meetings

Reporting into the Board of Trustees, we are seeking an inspirational CEO for the PDA Society, who can lead with humility and curiosity, empowering and supporting our staff along the journey. They will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the charity and its staff and volunteers, and will oversee the development of our training products, research and support services, whilst ensuring sustainable growth in impact and income.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a trusted enterprise within the PDA community with a strong mission and a committed, values driven team. The successful candidate will be passionate about improving the lives of PDAers and their families. You will be energetic, creative and bring new ideas for enhancing the charity’s reputation, through nurturing existing relationships and developing new ones to achieve the charities goals. Our ideal candidate will have lived experience of autism, PDA or other neurodivergence although this is not essential.

Closing date for applications: Midnight on 22nd April 2026

Interviews with Trustees:  April / May 2026

We are looking for a new CEO to lead Surrey Community Action into a bright and exciting future, where the voluntary sector and communities of Surrey are helped to survice and thrive.

Surrey Community Action

Chief Executive Officer

35 hours per week, mostly office based but with some scope for working remotely.

Based in Burpham, Guildford, Surrey

The role is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.

£62,000 for a 35-hour week

5% employers pension contribution

25 days annual leave plus three days over Christmas

Employee Assistance Programme

About Surrey Community Action

Surrey Community Action supports Surrey’s voluntary sector, the diverse communities of Surrey, and other organisations who seek to work with either. We ensure that non-voluntary sector stakeholders understand the value of our sector and how to work together to achieve shared objectives. We provide services to Surrey’s voluntary sector that increase their effectiveness or fill gaps in their capability, capacity, and resilience. Services to the Surrey’s Communities and we provide services directly to Surrey’s communities that support community action and address unsupported needs.

About The Role

We are seeking a new Chief Executive to join us at an ideal time to complete and implement our emerging new strategy and direct Surrey Community Action into a bright future.

As Chief Executive Officer, you will have the scope and authority to shape strategy, influence policy, empower Surrey’s voluntary sector, and champion rural communities, working closely with a committed Board, and experienced staff team.

You will be the organisation’s lead ambassador, building trusted relationships with partners, funders and decision‑makers, and ensuring the organisation’s voice is heard at local, regional and national level.

You will also play a critical role in leading change and transformation within the charity - strengthening systems, diversifying income and evolving how the organisation works so it remains resilient, relevant and impactful in a fast‑changing environment.

This is a role for someone who enjoys balancing big‑picture thinking with practical delivery, and who can bring people with them through periods of transition.

If you are motivated to improve the capability, capacity and resilience of the Surrey’s voluntary sector, communities and residents; if you thrive in complex and changing stakeholder environments; and if you are excited by the challenge of leading an organisation through its next phase of growth and influence, this role is for you.

No two days will be the same, but there are some core parts of this role.

• Strategic Leadership & Organisational Direction
• You will lead the delivery of a clear, compelling organisational strategy, adapting it in response to an evolving operating environment and ensuring the organisation remains agile, future‑focused and well positioned within the voluntary and community sectors.
• Board Partnership & Governance
• You will work collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, providing high‑quality insight, advice and assurance on strategy, finance, risk, governance and compliance, and then supporting effective Board decision‑making through clear reporting, analysis and professional guidance.
• Leadership of People & Culture
• You will lead, inspire and support the staff team through a transparent, inclusive and empowering management style, creating a high‑performance culture rooted in trust, accountability, equality, diversity and wellbeing.
• Change Management & Organisational Development
• You will be a skilled change manager, leading transformation in response to evolving funding landscapes, policy shifts, technology and community needs, designing and implementing systems, structures and processes that strengthen organisational effectiveness and resilience.
• Ambassadorial Role, Advocacy & External Relations
• You will be the public face of the organisation, representing it with credibility, passion and authority, and building strong, influential relationships with funders, partners, policymakers, communities and stakeholders.

About You

The purpose of the Chief Executive Officer’s role is to guide and plan the strategic development and overall direction of the organisation, providing strong leadership and co-ordination to ensure the aims, strategic objectives and priorities of the organisation are achieved.

To do this, we need someone who embodies the following attributes, skills and experience.

You will have:

• Senior leadership experience within a voluntary, community, public or values‑led organisation, with accountability for strategy, performance and resources.
• Proven experience of working effectively with a Board or trustees
• Demonstrable success in leading and managing organisational change, including restructuring, service development or cultural transformation.
• Experience in fundraising, income generation and business development
• Experience of financial leadership, including budgeting, financial planning, income generation and managing funding agreements or contracts.
• A strong track record of external engagement, partnership working and representation at senior level.
• People management experience, supporting a compact team delivering diverse projects.
• Excellent communication skills (including social media) and governance literacy.
• It will be a distinct advantage to have familiarity with Local Government Reorganisation and devolution, ideally in a county like Surrey.

You will be:

• Motivated, motivating and dynamic
• An effective communicator (including social media) with good network contacts, especially in the VCSE sector and across local government
• A strong team builder, able to develop, encourage and support colleagues in making the most of their experience and skillsets and to feel confident in their abilities
• A visionary leader who is able to embrace and manage change through strategic creativity and innovation, while also able to pay attention to detail when necessary.
• Ideally, you will also be able to demonstrate understanding of charity governance, compliance and safeguarding.
• Calm and confident under pressure with an evidence-based approach to prioritising finite resources.

These attributes, skills and experience will make you stand out, but even if you do not match all the criteria below, we still want to hear about you and what you can offer.

The Nuts and Bolts

The role is a permanent contract for 35 hours per week, mostly office based but with some scope for working remotely.

Our offices are in Guildford, Surrey

We are committed to continued professional development and will support you to develop your skills even further.

The role is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.

The salary for this post is £62,000 for a 35-hour week.

We also offer:

• 5% employers pension contribution
• Employee Assistance Programme
• 25 days holiday with an additional three days between Christmas and New Year, as well as all English Bank Holidays

We can only accept applications from candidates with the right to work in the UK.

Managing Director - PACE - Camden - Play, Adventure, Community & Enrichment
 

Salary: £65,000 - £70,000 per annum
Location: Camden, London
Closing Date: Thursday 2nd April 2026
Interviews: w/c 13th April 2026 (in person)

We are recruiting on behalf of a PACE Camden - Play, Adventure, Community & Enrichment.

This dynamic, grassroots charity have been transforming the lives of children and families for over a decade. Operating across three vibrant play centres, PACE deliver inclusive early years education, after-school and holiday play schemes, mentoring, and specialist support for children and young people with disabilities. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to create safe, engaging spaces where every child can thrive and play.

What sets PACE apart from most nurseries or schools is our unwavering belief in the power of play. Our services are designed around a play-centred philosophy that puts children's curiosity, autonomy and emotional wellbeing first, creating environments where every child can thrive on their own terms.

As Managing Director, you will be both the strategic and operational lead, driving innovation and growth while ensuring excellence in service delivery. Reporting to a committed Board of Trustees, you'll oversee a talented team across three locations and work closely with partners, commissioners, and stakeholders to expand impact and develop new income streams.

We are looking for a commercially minded leader with a strong track record in play work, youth work with experience of EYFS provision. You'll combine strategic vision with hands-on leadership, ensuring compliance, safeguarding, and financial sustainability while inspiring your team to deliver outstanding outcomes for children and families.

Key qualities we're seeking:

• Senior leadership experience across services for children and young people, including play work, youth work, nursery management, and EYFS provision, within education, care, or community contexts.
• Proven ability to develop services and generate income.
• Strong financial acumen and operational oversight.
• Commitment to inclusion, safeguarding, and community engagement.

Please note, due to the front line nature of this charity, it's essential that you are open to working on-site most days.

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead an organisation that truly makes a difference to it's community.
If you're ready to bring your expertise and passion to a role with purpose, we'd love to hear from you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

Cherry Trees helps to keep families together by providing home from home care for children with complex disabilities and a meaningful break for their families.

The CEO will provide dynamic and inspirational leadership, strategic vision, and operational oversight to ensure continued growth, maintain high quality of care, and deliver the charity's objectives. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO will manage the day-to-day operations of the charity, grow income through diverse fundraising streams, maintain the Outstanding status of the homes, and serve as an ambassador and senior leader.

For the full job description and to apply for the role, please visit our website.

Background

We are Humane World for Animals, formerly called the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International. Since 1954, we have worked to create a more humane society for animals. Working side by side as the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International, we have helped to pass thousands of landmark laws, rescue hundreds of thousands of animals, and cared for and protected millions more.

In 2025, to convey our mission and make sure that everyone understands who we are and the bold work that we do, our organisations are standing together under a new shared name: Humane World for Animals. 

We are dedicated to changing the world for animals. We drive change with human action. We help people, communities, governments, and corporations shift behaviour, providing the right support and advocating for policy change to stem the root causes of suffering and cruelty.

Purpose of role

As the Managing Director for the UK and Europe, you will develop and deliver the European fundraising strategy and plans and oversee the execution of all fundraising activities in Europe. These activities include, but are not limited to individual giving, major gifts, bequests, corporate giving, and community fundraising.

Primary responsibilities

The job holder will have the following key responsibilities: 

• Oversees fundraising activities and performance in Humane World for Animals’ EU and UK offices. Works closely with the Country Directors and the VP of International Fundraising on the execution of the fundraising programmes. Identifies opportunities to improve efficiency and facilitates collaboration efforts across European offices. (30%)
• Manages all fundraisers in the region and ensures they achieve their goals by providing guidance and advice, training, performance management and career development. Coordinates priorities and tasks and monitors progress. (25%)
• Monitors and reports on performance progress towards agreed revenue targets; efficiency and cost-effectiveness (including external fundraising contractors); and challenges or opportunities in the external fundraising environment. (20%)
• Creates and manages the budget for fundraising expenses and income targets. Sets and reviews multi-year and yearly investment and revenue targets. (10%)
• Leads research, planning, and implementation of new marketing initiatives and acquisition programmes, including but not limited to DRTV, face-to-face, telemarketing and PSMS Mobile channels. Establishes effective donor retention strategies and oversees their execution. (10%)
• Works closely with the VP of International Fundraising to develop and execute a strategic vision to grow fundraising income in the Europe region, translating the vision into an action plan, and ensuring the successful implementation and execution of the vision. (5%)

Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and experience

• An academic degree or equivalent work experience is required.
• A minimum of eight or more years of fundraising experience with a proven track record in driving significant, multi-channel revenue growth across multiple markets.
• A minimum of five years of senior management experience leading fundraising or marketing teams, including leadership responsibilities for staff, strategy development and execution, and budget accountability, preferably in the animal welfare arena, required.
• Demonstrated experience scaling high-performing international fundraising programs. International NGO experience strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to deliver multi‑million income portfolios, optimize ROI, and drive continuous improvement in donor acquisition and retention.
• Experience accurately forecasting and reporting on revenue, expenditures and delivering against agreed KPIs.
• At least five years’ experience in at least one of the following income streams: individual giving, major gifts, bequests, corporate giving, and/or community fundraising. Additionally, a strong preference for marketing experience.

Skills and qualifications

• Excellent people managerial skills: ability to coach, motivate, and manage high‑performing fundraisers across dispersed locations.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to plan workload in order to manage fundraising program priorities and meet agreed targets.
• Ability to demonstrate initiative, entrepreneurial spirit, and drive to achieve desired outcomes.
• Ability to thrive in a matrixed, fast-paced, mission‑driven environment and drive collaboration across countries and functions.
• Knowledge and understanding of GDPR and other data protection regulations.
• Excellent English verbal and written skills.
• Ability to work in a self-directed manner.
• Willing and able to travel extensively in Europe.

We’re currently looking for a Deputy Executive Assistant to the Group Chief Executive Officer, offered on a fixed term basis of 6 months, to help us deliver our mission. This a full-time position, 35 hours per week.

What’s it like working at the IOP?

The IOP is a friendly, inclusive and ambitious organisation. Diversity and inclusion are central to how we work. We focus on supporting our people to thrive, offering competitive pay, great development opportunities and a generous benefits package.

Some of our benefits include:

• An excellent pension scheme
• Private medical insurance, life assurance, dental insurance and a healthcare cash plan
• Eye care vouchers, annual flu vaccinations, long service awards and access to an employee assistance programme
• 25 days’ annual leave as a standard, in addition to floating bank holidays
• Flexible working opportunities

The Role

What will I be doing?

You’ll be responsible for a broad range of high‑level Executive Office support activities, including:

• Preparing, coordinating and servicing senior leadership meetings, including drafting clear agendas, collating accurate papers, taking high‑quality minutes and tracking actions with a strong attention to detail.
• Providing high‑quality executive and administrative support to the CEO Office, including complex diary and inbox management, and the drafting, handling and dispatch of correspondence on behalf of the Group CEO with excellent written accuracy and judgment.
• Supporting effective planning, briefing and preparation to ensure the Group CEO is fully equipped for internal and external engagements, with well‑structured briefings and precise, timely documentation.

Projects you may work on include:

• Coordinating national and international travel programmes for the Group CEO, President and senior trustees, producing accurate itineraries and paperwork to ensure effective use of time and seamless stakeholder engagement.
• Supporting the delivery of high‑profile Institute events involving the Group CEO, Executive Team and senior stakeholders, with a strong focus on detail, logistics and written briefings.
• Undertaking short‑term project work and research for the Executive Team, analysing and summarising information clearly and producing briefings, reports or presentations as required.

Who will I work with?

You’ll work closely with a wide range of colleagues and stakeholders, including:

• The CEO Office Operations Manager and Executive Assistant to the Group CEO and President, working collaboratively to ensure the smooth, accurate and professional running of the Executive Office.
• Executive Directors, senior trustees and members of the Leadership Team across the Institute and its subsidiary companies, including IOP Publishing.
• Senior internal and external stakeholders, including equivalent CEO offices in partner organisations, government and learned societies, requiring clear, professional written communication and attention to detail.

Ideally, we hope you’ll apply if you bring:

Essential:

• Proven experience providing high‑level PA or Executive Assistant support in a fast‑paced, complex environment, including diary management, meeting support and high‑quality minute‑taking.
• Excellent written communication skills, with the ability to draft clear, accurate and professional correspondence, briefings and minutes, alongside a consistently high level of attention to detail.
• Strong organisational and prioritisation skills, with the judgment and discretion to handle confidential and sensitive information.
• Advanced IT skills, including confident use of Microsoft 365 applications (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint and Excel).

Nice to have:

• Experience supporting senior executives or boards within a charity, professional body, membership organisation or similarly complex environment.
• Experience using CRM systems and maintaining accurate electronic records and contact databases.
• A professional qualification as an Executive Assistant or Personal Assistant (or working towards one).

How to apply

Alongside your CV, please include a cover letter explaining how you meet the person specification.

How will I be working?

We operate a flexible, trust based working model that gives colleagues autonomy over how, when and where they work, while recognising the value of in person collaboration. You will be assigned a base office, with hybrid working offered as standard. This role does however involve regular visits to our head office based on business needs. 

You will engage in regular in person collaboration with your team (as operational appropriate), as well as with colleagues across the wider organisation, to ensure effective operational alignment and to support our inclusive approach to working.

As an organization we meet in person once a quarter at our Head Office in Kings Cross, London. 

Why join the IOP?

The IOP is the professional body and learned society for physics in the UK and Ireland. As a charity, we’re passionate about increasing public understanding of physics and supporting a diverse and inclusive physics community. 

We’re committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive culture for everyone. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the application or recruitment process, please let us know we’re always happy to help.

Please note whilst we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role, we warmly encourage applications from candidates who already have the right to work in the UK and Ireland.