Chief operating officer jobs

We are proud to be supporting the leading independent grant making foundation in the West Midlands and Warwickshire, in their search for a Chief Operating Officer.

They nurture philanthropy, connecting people who care with incredible causes that matter. They help unlock the resources to tackle local issues, and support people and communities to thrive across the region.

They are recruiting for a new position, a Chief Operating Officer, to support the CEO, having overall accountability for the organisation’s operations. The COO will play a pivotal role in implementing their strategy, aimed at improving operational efficiency and diversifying income streams.

Chief Operating Officer 

£60,000-£65,000 + benefits  

Hybrid working, 2 days in the office in Coventry

The COO will ensure that ways of working are as effective as possible, enabling the team to meet their ambitions and modernise their internal operations and governance, freeing up capacity for the CEO to build strong relationships with donors and partners working with communities.

Key responsibilities include: 

• Play a central role as a member of the executive team in the overall leadership, strategic direction and governance of the Foundation. 
• Work with the whole team to implement the organisational strategy and business plan.

• Lead on the development of the grant making strategy, ensuring processes are efficient, compliant and deliver an outstanding experience for applicants and donors.
• Oversee the day-to-day operational management of the Foundation, ensuring systems, policies and processes are appropriate and effective.

• Oversee fundholder relationships, demonstrating value and impact whilst overseeing performance against programme delivery commitments.

• Oversee research, insight and impact inputs and ensure effective horizon scanning for emerging trends and technologies.

• Oversee HR and marketing strategies to strengthen the culture and visibility.

As COO, you will have a strong commitment to the mission and values of the foundation, with a passion for making a difference to the lives of people in the West Midlands and Warwickshire. You will need Senior management experience within a nonprofit, charitable or comparable grant-making organisation, evidenced by successful strategic planning and execution.

How to Apply 

To apply for the role, please upload your CV together with a supporting statement (of no more than 1000 words) onto the Prospectus website via the link below.  
  
Please ensure that you have included a telephone number, as well as any dates when you will not be available or might have difficulty with the recruitment timetable.  
  
If you wish to apply using an alternative format, please contact Prospectus.  
If you would like to have an informal conversation about the role, please contact our retained partners. 
  
At Prospectus we believe passionately that a truly inclusive workplace leads to increased social impact. We are committed to supporting our clients build more inclusive teams. To understand how we are performing, we ask that you kindly complete the brief equal opportunities questionnaire when you submit your application via our website. Please be assured that your responses are kept confidential, separate from your candidate record, are not part of any application you make, and that the consultants never see individual responses to the questionnaire. 

Recruitment Timetable 

Deadline for applications: Sunday 8th Feb (midnight) 

Interviews with Prospectus: 24th Feb – 2nd March

First stage interviews with the foundation: 17th and 19th March

Second stage with the foundation: 24th March

Aerospace Bristol is where imagination takes off.

Based on the historic Filton Airfield, where a community began and an idea became an industry, our purpose is to inspire, educate and connect people through the legacy of aerospace in Bristol.

Aerospace Bristol are looking for a commercially astute and visitor focused leader to be our first Chief Operating Officer. This is an important role overseeing the day-to-day running of the museum and site and leading some of the organisation’s core business functions, including finance, commercial and operations. The post holder will develop a motivated staff and volunteer community, continuously seeking to improve the quality of the visitor offer and increase the commercial success of the museum.

Aerospace Bristol has an ambitious commercial strategy and the Chief Operating Officer will play a critical role in its delivery and continued development, drive income generation through all commercial areas including events and venue hire, tickets sales, visitor income and retail.

How to Apply

To apply for this role, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining why you would be suitable for the position.

Closing date for applications is 25 January 2026.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview on 9 or 10 February.

The interview process will include a structured Q&A, and candidates will also be asked to prepare a short presentation on ‘What you would tackle first and how you would drive lasting change’. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase both your strategic thinking and your ability to drive impact from day one.

We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact us and we will be happy to discuss your needs.

Our mission is to foster community-led green space management through collaboration, advocacy, and education.  We believe that green open spaces can be better sustained by empowering communities and our existing network numbers 150 plus members throughout Birmingham. As our Operations Director, you will direct and control the ongoing operations of Birmingham Open Spaces Forum (BOSF), to achieve the strategic and business performance objectives required by the Trustees. 

Prospectus is pleased to be collaborating with a UK charity founded by families who lost loved ones to gambling-related suicide to recruit for a new CEO to join them on a 12-month fixed term contract to start in March 2026. The charity operates as a fully remote working organisation however there will be some UK travel required as part of the role.

The Chief Operating Officer is the most senior staff role within the organisation, responsible for the day to day running of the charity and, in close coordination with the co-founders, delivering the organisation’s strategy. During this fixed term contract, the interim COO will be responsible for overseeing major change and growth as they move into a new funding system through the statutory gambling levy. In addition, the interim COO will ensure the ongoing delivery and quality of the charity’s services and activities, and will lead and support their expert and agile staff team.

The successful candidate will have significant experience in a senior leadership role within a small charity setting. You will have demonstrable experience leading, developing and nurturing teams including remote workers. Having worked successfully at a strategic level, you will be adept at delivering strategic and operational plans, with the ability to stay on top of all aspects of the organisation. In addition to the inward facing parts of the role you will also demonstrate the drive and experience to work externally, with a range of stakeholders and contractors. You will demonstrate passion for the mission, operating with a strong political awareness and sensitivity around the subject area.

To apply please submit your CV and a two page supporting statement, preferably in Microsoft Word/PDF format. The statement should outline your motivation for joining the charity and why you feel you would be a good fit for this role. You should also demonstrate your experience and skillset with examples relating to the Person Specification section in the Job Pack. If you have any further questions or would like to know more about this opportunity please contact Steven Fraser from Prospectus.

As a specialist Recruitment Practice Prospectus are committed to building inclusive and diverse organisations, and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Prospectus invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you in your application.

We are seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer / Deputy CEO to help lead our growing organisation through an exciting period of consolidation and development.

You will work closely with the CEO and Trustees, overseeing operations, finance, people, and systems across our six community projects, helping ensure strong governance, sustainability, and impact.

We’re looking for someone with:
• Senior leadership experience in the charity or non-profit sector
• Strong operational and financial management skills
• Experience leading teams and multiple projects
• A collaborative, values-driven leadership style

This role has a Genuine Occupational Requirement for the post holder to be a practising Christian, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

How to apply:
Click here to download the Applicant Information Pack which also includes details of how to apply or contact us for further information.

Goodman Masson are partnered with an award-winning, pioneering organisation dedicated to preventing human suffering caused by armed conflict, as they seek a Finance & Operations Director to join their Directors' Group.

They work globally with civil society, protecting human rights and promoting humanitarian action. Their brand is built on strategic engagement, reputation, and impact.

You Will Be:

• The financial compass, driving fiscal excellence, rigorous control, and compliance across international operations.
• A strategic partner shaping long-term organisational strategy, providing expert financial advice, and managing organisational risk.
• Hands-on in day-to-day functions, ensuring best-practice financial systems, leading statutory reporting, and managing fund investment compliance.
• A mentor cultivating a high-performing, supportive Finance Team.

You Will Have:

• 10+ years of senior leadership experience in financial planning, budgeting, and reporting
• Leadership experience within an international charity setting.
• Deep technical expertise in Charity SORP, regulatory compliance, and managing complex international finance/currencies.
• Proven experience supporting governance through Board liaison (Audit/Risk).

Salary range is £70,000 - £80,000 Depending on Experience + Benefits.

Applications are being reviewed as and when they are received, therefore please apply ASAP to ensure your details are considered.

About Us

VAST is a registered charity dedicated to supporting and empowering the Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector in Stoke-on-Trent. We aim to foster strong local networks, strengthen community engagement, and build the capacity of local community groups.

The Role

As Finance & Business Operations Director, you will lead VAST’s financial and operational strategy, ensuring robust financial management, effective HR and IT systems, and compliance with Health & Safety. You will oversee the efficient running and management of The Dudson Centre (a Grade II listed building), act as Company Secretary, and serve as the organisation’s Money Laundering Reporting Officer.

This is a senior leadership role, contributing to strategic planning and organisational development while supporting VAST’s day-to-day delivery. It’s an exciting opportunity for someone who combines financial expertise with operational leadership and a commitment to community impact.

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, etc)
  Significant experience in financial management and business operations in the VCSE sector.
• Strong leadership and strategic planning skills
  Knowledge of charity finance, governance, and compliance.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to travel locally and work occasional evenings/weekends.

Why join us

At VAST, we offer more than just a job. You’ll be part of a team committed to helping communities thrive. We believe in equal opportunities and strive to create an inclusive work environment where everyone can succeed.

You will also have access to a range of wellbeing perks, including:

• Mortgage and pension advice.
• Virtual GP appointments and second medical opinions.
• Comprehensive mental health support
• Wellbeing programmes to support a healthy lifestyle.

To apply

Applications are accepted by CV and covering lettter only. 

Closing date for applications is Midnight on Friday 30th January 2026.

Interviews will be held during February 2026

VAST is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all individuals, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, age, or disability.

If you’re a purpose‑driven CEO with a deep passion for animal welfare, this is your opportunity to steer a trusted charity as it transforms for a sustainable future.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue is embarking on an exciting phase of strategic revitalisation. As a leading animal welfare charity with a proud history since 1965, we are seeking a visionary and dynamic Chief Executive Officer to lead us into our next chapter. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our charity and ensuring the animals in our care receive the very best support.

As Chief Executive of Margaret Green Animal Rescue, you’ll lead a proud organisation delivering rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming, and providing lifetime care for animals with complex needs across Dorset and Devon since 1965. You’ll harness the charity’s tangible local footprint across three rescue centres and a network of retail shops to elevate outcomes, scale supporter engagement, and embed operational excellence.

You’ll be the catalyst for significant strategic change—partnering closely with the Board of Trustees to set bold transformational objectives and KPIs. You’ll transform our operating model to meet current and future needs, oversee a data and IT modernisation programme to strengthen insight, efficiency and compliance (from donor management and welfare tracking to retail operations), steward budgets and risk with rigour, and act as the charity’s primary spokesperson to media, partners and the wider community.

The role is full‑time, based at Head Office in Church Knowle, Dorset, with regular travel across centres and shops, and offers a competitive package including 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays. We welcome experienced CEOs and senior leaders who bring strategic planning, change delivery and inclusive leadership.

The Role

As CEO, you will provide inspirational leadership and strategic direction, working closely with the Board of Trustees to deliver our mission and vision. You will be responsible for:

• Leading the development and implementation of a revitalised strategic plan, ensuring alignment with our values and ambitions
• Driving operational excellence across all areas, including animal welfare, fundraising, retail, and administration
• Championing a ‘One Charity’ culture, embedding consistent ethics and best practices across all teams and locations
• Acting as the primary spokesperson, enhancing our profile and engagement with supporters, partners, and the wider community
• Overseeing financial stewardship, risk management, and the effective use of data and technology to support organisational goals
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and charity governance requirements

About You

We are looking for an exceptional leader who is passionate about animal welfare and ethical leadership. The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven senior leadership experience, ideally within the charity, animal welfare, or related sectors
• Demonstrable experience in strategic planning, organisational development, and change management
• Strong financial acumen and experience in budget management and income generation
• Experience in data and IT management, including digital transformation
• Excellent communication, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement skills
• A commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare

Experience in retail operations, fundraising, and working with Boards of Trustees is desirable.

What We Offer

• Full-time role (37.5 hours per week) with flexibility for additional hours as required
• Competitive salary (£65-80k depending on experience) and benefits, including 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), business expenses, and mobile phone provision
• The chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of animals and the communities we serve

Join us at this pivotal moment and help shape the future of Margaret Green Animal Rescue. If you are ready to lead with vision, compassion, and drive, we would love to hear from you.

The Head of HR is a new role for the organisation. Over the last few years, the organisation and our staff team have grown significantly. To enable us to achieve our mission to give all young people a home, it is crucial that we make a significant shift in our HR and people plans so that staff and managers have all the support they need to succeed in these challenging times. To do so, we need to make a strategic shift with our HR capacity, improve our people systems, and make NHYC a great place to work for our 70+ strong staff team. You will work closely with the Chief Operating Officer to develop and implement NHYC’s People strategy for 2025-2030, taking on a varied role around key areas of organisational development and HR operations. You will need to build strong and trusting relationships with staff from across the organisation and act as a key advisor to the Executive Team.

We are happy to consider candidates taking their first step into leadership and we will consider exceptional part time candidates to ensure we find the right person or people for the role. We particularly welcome candidates from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities as these are overrepresented communities in our services and yet underrepresented within our leadership.

• Permanent, full-time role in our Leadership Team (part-time considered)
• Salary: £46,800 (salary scale £46,800-£52,000)
• Deadline to apply: 9am, Wednesday 11 February 2026

The opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and values-led Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead East London Waterworks Park in this next phase of our development. This is a rare opportunity to shape the first paid executive leadership role in a pioneering environmental charity.

The CEO role is wide-ranging and dynamic, and will evolve as East London Waterworks Park grows. The CEO will provide strategic leadership to help realise our ambition to purchase the Thames Water depot site in East London, while strengthening our capacity to deliver community-led rewilding and nature-recovery projects across London in partnership with landowners, local authorities and other stakeholders.

An important aspect of the role will involve introducing a sustainable staffing model that complements and develops East London Waterworks Park’s existing volunteer ecosystem, and strengthens our culture, vision and values. The CEO will be supported in this work by long-standing volunteers at both trustee board and operational level, who believe in the benefits this organisational change will bring.

About East London Waterworks Park

East London Waterworks Park is a community-led charity working to reconnect people and nature. Starting from nature-first principles, and with inclusivity at the heart of everything we do, we work with communities to co-design spaces to unlock a chain of positive changes that culminate in the long-term transformation of people and place.

Our work includes:

• co-designing East London Waterworks Park with the East London community, working towards purchasing a 14-acre Thames Water depot in Waltham Forest and transforming it into a biodiverse urban park with free, accessible wild swimming and welcoming community spaces

• co-designing other nature-first spaces on disused or brownfield land in London, returning land to nature in collaboration with local communities to encourage long–term community stewardship

• hosting engagement, education, and empowerment activities that build skills, confidence and deeper connections to nature.

East London Waterworks Park is a sociocratic organisation, with a decentralised organisational structure and a transparent and collaborative approach to decision making. We have grown organically since 2019, responding flexibly to the challenges we have encountered but always committed to our core vision: creating a new kind of urban green and blue space: one that is ecologically rich, inclusive, and shaped by the people and wildlife who use it.

East London Waterworks Park is currently entirely run by volunteers but we recognise the need to transition to a more sustainable structure. We want to introduce paid employees to ensure we can deliver the exciting projects planned in 2026 and beyond, while retaining our strong community-led ethos.

More information

If this sounds exciting, please review the attached recruitment package.

Seeking an enthusiastic, dynamic, dedicated yet compassionate leader to drive the charity forward with a fresh strategy, new ideas and a bold vision. As CEO you will provide visionary, strategic, and operational leadership to the Ileostomy and Internal Pouch Association, ensuring we fulfil our mission and grow sustainably. You will act as a key ambassador, building partnerships and maintaining our reputation for excellence ensuring we move forward with impact sharing the strength and passion that we have continued to experience for almost 70 years.

Key Responsiblities (see breakdown within attached job specification)

• Strategic leadership
• Operational Management
• External Engagement
• Governance and Board Relations
• Team Leadership
   

What we do
IA offers peer-to-peer support to those with, or about to have, either an ileostomy or an internal pouch. We also help fund research into bowel disease and other conditions leading to the removal of the colon, as well as providing relevant information to interested parties using a range of channels.

Our strapline, “Because we know, we care”, sums up our whole ethos. Individuals can join either their local IA member organisation, or the IA national charity, and in either case, gain access to a range of services and support, including our flagship quarterly Journal, local and national meetings and information events, and other services such as our One2One peer support and Support Through Therapy services.

What you offer

Essential
• Proven senior leadership experience, ideally as a CEO or Director in the charity or social enterprise sector
• Demonstrable experience of strategic planning and implementation
• Excellent communication skills with ability to engage effectively with stakeholders, professionals and volunteers both internally and publicly
• Work empathetically with vulnerable adults employing working knowledge of safeguarding
• Financial management and budget oversight
• Demonstrable experience of implementing and monitoring services based on financial benefit and social benefit
• Track record of income generation and fundraising
• Demonstrable experience of operating within a governance and regulatory framework
• Experience of developing, managing and supporting high performing teams with a strong growth mindset
• Builds effective relationships with a strong network instilling confidence and trust
• Experience of leading a team delivering effectively against objectives

Skills and Qualities
• Visionary and values-led leadership
• Ethical decision-maker
• Strong, confident and decisive performing well under pressure
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Resilience, adaptability, empathy and emotional intelligence
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

What we offer
Contract: Part time 60% FTE – flexible over 3-5 days, permanent role.
Location: Remote (with regular travel to National Office (Rochford, Essex) and other UK locations, as required)
Salary: £80,000 - £85,000 equivalent FT (pro-rata 60%), commensurate with experience plus benefits

Please see further information about us, what you will offer and who we are looking for within the attached role profile.

Mslexia, the UK’s best-loved writing magazine for women, is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation into an exciting new phase of growth and impact.

Founded in 1999, Mslexia is a national publishing and outreach charity dedicated to addressing gender inequality in literature. We support over 50,000 women writers through our magazine, books, competitions, courses, events and online community. Financially independent for more than 20 years, we now want to build on our success, strengthen our sustainability and extend our reach.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a respected, values-driven organisation with a strong brand, loyal audience and passionate team.

About the role

As CEO, you will provide strategic, operational and inspirational leadership for Mslexia, working closely with the Board of Trustees and leading a team of talented staff.

You will be responsible for:

• Setting and delivering organisational strategy with the Board.
• Leading and supporting the staff team, fostering a positive, inclusive and high-performing culture.
• Overseeing financial management, budgeting and long-term sustainability.
• Developing and diversifying income streams, including commercial activity, partnerships and fundraising.
• Acting as the public face of Mslexia, championing its mission locally, regionally and nationally.
• Strengthening governance, systems, policies and risk management.
• Building partnerships and promoting the Mslexia brand and influence.

We are looking for an inspiring, values-driven leader with the vision, credibility and skills to lead a purpose-led organisation.

You will bring:

• Senior leadership experience in the charity, public, commercial or related sector.
• Strong financial literacy and experience managing multiple income streams.
• A track record of leading and motivating teams.
• Experience working with a Board or similar governance structure.
• Strategic thinking skills, with the ability to turn vision into action.
• Excellent communication, influencing and relationship-building skills.
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Desirable:

• Experience in the arts, culture or creative industries.
• Experience of hybrid earned / grant-funded income models.
• Events or publishing-related experience.

Why join Mslexia?

• Lead a nationally respected charity with a clear social mission.
• Work with a skilled, passionate and supportive team.
• Shape the future of women’s writing and gender equality in literature.
• Flexible working and family-friendly policies.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• City-centre Newcastle location.

How to apply

Mslexia is working with Jobs with Purpose to recruit to this role. You can access a detailed candidate pack below, including a job description and person specification.

To apply, please forward a detailed CV and a supporting statement (maximum three sides) explaining how you meet the requirements of the person specification and any other information relevant to the role to David Robinson at Jobs with Purpose.

For a confidential discussion about the role, email David with your availability and brief details regarding your experience and interest in the position.

Closing date: Monday 9 February 2026, 12 noon
Interviews: Week commencing 16 February 2026

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

Purpose of the role

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure BDC Mind delivers high-quality mental health services, achieves organisational sustainability, and fosters a culture aligned to the charity’s values.

The CEO works closely with the Board to set strategic direction, leads the Executive Leadership Team, ensures effective governance and financial stewardship, and represents BDC Mind across local, regional, and national forums.

​

Key Responsibilities

Strategic and Courageous Leadership

1. Lead the development and implementation of the organisational strategy.

2. Build trust and confidence with the Board, ELT, staff, and external partners.

3. Provide transparent and values-driven leadership aligned to BDC Mind’s mission.

4. Build strong, productive relationships with commissioners, funders, strategic and corporate partners.

5. Engage in media engagement, advocacy, and public speaking responsibilities.

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Innovation, Growth & Sector Influence

6. Foster a culture of innovation, learning, and continuous improvement.

7. Develop new or enhanced service models, including pilots and strategic partnerships within Bradford and Craven and across West Yorkshire.

8. Position BDC Mind as a leading service provider for current and emerging mental health needs through identifying service gaps and opportunities.

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Delivering High-Impact Services

9. Ensure services deliver measurable, high-quality outcomes for people and communities.

10. Embed Service Member voices at the heart of Service developments.

11. Oversee service performance, quality assurance, and impact reporting.

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Building an Inclusive and Diverse Culture in line with our Antiracism Commitments

12. Drive the delivery of our commitments to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI), Anti-Racism and the Patient Care Race Equality Framework (PCREF)

13. Promote a culture of inclusion, psychological safety, and respect across the organisation.

14. Strengthen workforce diversity and embed anti-discriminatory practice.

15. Ensure services are accessible, inclusive and culturally competent.

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Inspiring, Supportive and Accountable Leadership

16. Provide clear, motivating leadership to the ELT and wider workforce.

17. Promote staff wellbeing, professional development, and collaborative working.

18. Ensure effective line management, appraisals, and succession planning across ELT.

19. Communicate consistently, openly, and effectively with all members of the workforce, Maintaining visibility and accessibility across teams and services.

​

Governance, Finance, Safeguarding & Risk

20. Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations.

21. Maintain robust safeguarding practices for children and adults at risk.

22. Oversee robust health and safety procedures and risk assessments.

23. Ensure strong governance, effective decision-making, and accountability across the organisation.

24. Maintain robust organisational risk management processes.

25. Support the Board’s effectiveness through high-quality reporting and engagement.

26. Ensure strong financial controls, financial planning, management, and statutory compliance.

27. Drive income generation and diversification of funding streams for long-term financial sustainability.

​

General Duties

28. Foster and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, facilitating effective communication channels.

29. Lead the team ensuring all key people processes are engaged with meaningfully to enable strong performance and transparent communication, addressing issues proactively and sensitively should they arise and in alignment with our aims, policies, core values and Employee Handbook.

30. Fully participating in all relevant training to develop and maintain your performance in the role.

31. Demonstrating an ongoing commitment to our values: Caring Always, Working Together, Supporting Everyone, Enabling All and Continually Improving.

32. Performing other duties as reasonably required within the role.

It is BDC Mind’s policy to make reasonable adjustments to enable those with disabilities to undertake the above. We are committed to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and improving the quality of life for people with mental health challenges. We value diversity, inclusion, and the importance of lived experience as a source of knowledge and expertise. Our values are:

 ​​

Person specification

Bradford District and Craven Mind is committed to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and improving the quality of life for people with mental health challenges. We value diversity, inclusion and lived experiences when recruiting our staff and volunteers. 

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Qualifications & Knowledge

Essential

· Senior leadership experience within one or more of health, social care, charity, or related sectors.

· Strong understanding of mental health services and challenges faced by service users.

· Knowledge of charity governance, safeguarding, quality standards and regulation.

· Good financial literacy and experience overseeing budgets and financial strategy.

· Strong understanding of EDI principles and inclusive leadership.

· Engaging with a Board of Trustees.

​

Desirable

· Relevant degree or professional qualification (e.g., management, social care, health).

· Knowledge of commissioning, procurement, and tendering processes.

​

Leadership Skills & Behaviours

Essential

· Courageous, transparent, values-driven leadership approach.

· Ability to inspire, motivate and develop high-performing teams.

· Strategic thinker capable of turning vision into deliverable plans.

· Skilled communicator and relationship-builder internally and externally.

· Effective decision-maker, particularly in complex and challenging situations.

· Commitment to equity inclusion, diversity, and psychologically safe working environments.

· Collaborative and partnership-oriented working style.

· Person-centred leadership, able to exercise discretion.

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Experience

Essential

· Senior paid role with a charity of turnover of more than £3.5 million.

· Demonstrable experience in strategic planning, organisational development, and change management.

· Delivering organisational strategies and measurable outcomes.

· Managing growth, innovation or service transformation.

· Strong financial acumen including overseeing financial sustainability, compliance, budget management and income generation.

· Excellent communication, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement skills including Representing organisations publicly and influencing stakeholders.

· Experience of working within a wider system of charities and infrastructure.

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Desirable

· Experience of working within a federated or charity network.

· Leadership experience within mental health or wellbeing services.

· Demonstrable commitment to Anti-Racism.

· Evidence of public policy influence.

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Personal Attributes

· A strong passion for the mission of BDC Mind and alignment with our values, including inclusion for all

· Resilience and the confidence to challenge constructively.

· Ability to foster trust, credibility and positive relationships.

· Passion for improving mental health outcomes across communities.

· Commitment to learning, improvement and reflective practice.

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Additional Information

· The CEO may be required to work flexibly, including occasional evenings or weekends.

· Appointment is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

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Chief Officer

Citizens Advice Woking (CAW) provides free, independent, and confidential advice and information to the residents of Woking, and anyone who works in the Borough, particularly the most vulnerable, to help with the problems they face.  We are the only organisation locally that can and does address client issues holistically, across areas such as debt, housing and welfare benefits, not just single issues, and this is increasingly important as client problems become more complex.

We are looking for a Senior Manager who will bring both innovation and experience to lead a valued local charity.

Reporting to the Chair of the Trustee Board, the Chief Officer

• Is responsible to the Trustee Board for the management and leadership of Citizens Advice Woking,
• Represents Citizens Advice Woking to funders, partners and stakeholders,
• Ensures the delivery of a high quality, impartial and confidential service, utilising both paid staff and volunteers,
• Is responsible for the continuing funding, planning and financial management of the service,
• Represents the organisation in Woking and contributes to the overall provision of strategic advice services in the borough.

In particular, the priorities for the Chief Officer in 2026/27 will be to:

• Manage CAW’s external relationships with our funders and the Woking community generally, to ensure satisfaction with the delivery of current projects, and their continuation,
• Collaborate closely with the other Surrey LCA Chief Officers to respond to the changing funding landscape. In parallel, continue to identify and deliver local projects for local funders,
• Ensure that suitable alternative premises are secured, and the transition is managed as smoothly as possible,
• Ensure the staff and volunteers are enabled to work effectively, particularly during this period of disruption,

The Chief Officer has an important leadership role, working closely with the Operations Manager, who has line responsibility for the staff and, generally, the internal CAW operation.  The volunteers are managed on a day-to-day basis by the Advice Session Supervisors, who are critical to ensuring the quality of advice to clients, and the smooth running of the office. 

How to apply

To apply for the role of Chief Officer at CAW, please see the Job Pack on our website.

You will need to send us your CV and a maximum 2 page supporting statement. The supporting statement should demonstrate how you meet the criteria outlined in the person specification and outline why you are interested in becoming the CO of Citizens Advice Woking.

Closing date for applications: Friday 6th Febraury

Applications will be reviewed on receipt, and we reserve the right to close earlier if applications from sufficient suitably qualified candidates have been received