Chief operating officer jobs

This is a unique opportunity to join Practical Action at an exciting and pivotal point in our journey. We are seeking an exceptional Executive Assistant to provide dedicated support to our Interim CEO during a period of transformation, growth and strategic development, while we recruit and appoint our permanent CEO.

Working at the heart of the organisation, you will play a key role in ensuring continuity, maintaining momentum and supporting the successful transition to new leadership. This highly visible position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the next chapter of Practical Action's impact and ambition.

We are looking for an experienced, highly organised and proactive Executive Assistant who can provide outstanding strategic and operational support to the CEO of a respected international development organisation. Acting as a trusted partner, you will enable the CEO to focus on organisational leadership, external engagement, fundraising and the delivery of strategic priorities.

The role encompasses complex diary and inbox management, preparation of high-quality briefings and correspondence, Board and governance support, and coordination with senior stakeholders across the organisation and internationally. You will work closely with colleagues, partners and supporters across multiple countries, cultures and time zones, ensuring the smooth and effective operation of the Executive Office.

This is a demanding and rewarding role that requires exceptional judgement, discretion and attention to detail. The successful candidate will be comfortable operating in a fast-paced, complex environment, able to manage competing priorities with confidence, and skilled at building effective relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including senior leaders, trustees, partners and external representatives.

If you thrive on enabling others to succeed, enjoy working at the centre of decision-making, and are motivated by the opportunity to support an organisation delivering meaningful global impact, we would love to hear from you.

 Accountabilities:

Executive and CEO Office Support

• Proactively manage the CEO's diary, inbox and correspondence, exercising independent judgement in prioritising requests and protecting time for strategic priorities.

• Prepare and commission high-quality briefings, background notes, talking points and presentation materials to ensure the CEO is fully prepared for all meetings and engagements.

• Draft, review and quality-assure outgoing correspondence, reports and communications on behalf of the CEO.

• Coordinate and manage complex domestic and international travel arrangements, itineraries, visas and logistics for the CEO and COO, ensuring efficiency and value for money.

• Manage the CEO and COO’s expense reporting and the Executive Office budget, maintaining accurate records and flagging issues proactively.

• Serve as the first point of contact for the CEO's office, managing enquiries from staff, partners, donors and stakeholders with professionalism and discretion.

• Work closely with the Internal Communications and Social Media team lead to ensure CEO internal and external communications are delivered well.

Board and Governance Administration

• Lead the end-to-end administration of Board of Trustee meetings and sub-committees, including scheduling, preparation of Board papers, agenda coordination and minute-taking, utilising AI. The majority are virtual due to the international nature of the board. In-person meetings take place approx. every 18 months.

• Maintain the governance calendar and ensure all regulatory and statutory reporting deadlines are met in coordination with the Company Secretary, CEO and COO.

• Support the onboarding of new Trustees and maintain up-to-date records of Board membership, terms of office and declarations of interest.

• Build strong working relationships with Trustees, acting as a responsive and reliable point of contact between Board meetings.

• Assist with the organisation of the Annual General Meeting and other governance events.

Leadership Team Coordination

• Coordinate the Global Leadership Team (GLT) meeting cycle, including agenda-setting, papers, actions and follow-up, working closely with the CEO and members of GLT.

• Support the CEO in tracking GLT action items, strategic priorities and key commitments, flagging issues and ensuring accountability.

• Co-ordinate with Regional and Country Directors on the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) meetings, including agenda-setting, papers, actions and follow-up,

• Assist with the preparation of materials for all-staff communications, leadership away-days and organisational events.

• Build effective working relationships across Practical Action's global offices, navigating time-zone differences and cultural contexts with sensitivity.

Stakeholder and Partnership Support

• Support the CEO's engagement with major institutional donors, trusts and foundations, bilateral agencies and high-value partners, including managing contact records and briefing materials, liaising closely with the business development and philanthropy teams.

• Coordinate logistics for high-level external visits, delegations, conferences and events involving the CEO.

• Assist with donor stewardship activities and the preparation of materials for fundraising and partnership development.

• Represent the CEO's office professionally in interactions with government officials, international organisations and peer NGOs.

Project and Research Support

• Take on research and project management tasks as directed by the CEO

• Continue to test and utilise AI tools to increase efficiency and effectiveness and share learnings with other members of Practical Action

• Support the delivery of special initiatives and cross-organisational projects led from the Executive Office.

• Maintain confidential files and records management systems for the CEO's office, ensuring compliance with GDPR and information governance policies.

To be successful in this role, the ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate:

 Essential

• Significant experience (typically five or more years) as an Executive Assistant or Personal Assistant supporting a Chief Executive or equivalent senior leaders in a complex and or charitable organisation.

• Demonstrable experience of Board and governance administration, including minuting meetings and managing trustee or director-level relationships.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft high-quality correspondence, briefing papers and presentations to Board or senior stakeholder standard.

• Outstanding organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines and maintain quality under pressure.

• High degree of discretion, confidentiality and professional judgement in handling sensitive information about people, partners and organisational matters.

• Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence, with the ability to build trust and credibility with senior internal and external stakeholders.

• Experience of coordinating complex international travel and managing logistics across multiple time zones.

• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams), AI tools and the ability to learn new digital tools quickly.

Desirable

• Experience working in an international NGO, development organisation or comparable mission-driven environment.

• Familiarity with funder relationships

• Experience supporting or working in an organisation with offices or programmes in the Global South.

• Knowledge of charity law and UK charity governance, including Charity Commission requirements.

• A second language relevant to Practical Action's programme geographies (e.g. French, Spanish, Arabic).

• Experience with CRM or stakeholder management systems.

Skills, Abilities and Competencies

· Problem-Solving

· Strong Communication & Diplomacy

· Adaptability

· Proactive organisation skills

To apply please submit a copy of your CV (no more than 3 pages) and a supporting statement/letter that includes the answers to the following questions:

1.  Tell me how you build relationships in fast-paced environments taking into account those stakeholders being located in different countries and having different cultural background?
2.  Practical Action has a very experienced and diverse board of trustees. Can you give an example of when you have had to build relationships with these types of people. Please describe your approach to having the most effective interactions?
3.  Tell us about the most complex project, event, or initiative you have coordinated?
4.  Describe a situation where you made a significant decision on behalf of a senior executive. What was your thought process and outcome?

 Closing date for applications: 17th June 2026.  Should we recruit a suitable candidate before the closing date, we will close applications earlier than the specified date.

 Interviews: It is anticipated that interviews will take place W/C 22nd June 2026

 If you do not hear from us within five weeks of the closing date, please assume your application has not been successful 

If you are a forward thinking professional with exceptional judgment, emotional intelligence and excellent communication skills, this might just be the role for you. Join ClientEarth, a globally respected environmental law charity driving real impact across climate, nature, health, and justice. We are hiring a Chief of Staff to the CEO (Strategy, Planning & Internal Communications)!

In this role you will play a pivotal role in shaping strategic priorities and organisational alignment, ensuring seamless information flow to inspire a diverse, global workforce around key priorities, and enabling effective and timely decision-making from the CEO’s office. 

This is a rare opportunity to work at the heart of a purpose-led organisation, partnering directly with the CEO and senior leadership. You will operate as a trusted advisor at the highest level, reporting to  the Chief Strategy & People Officer, with close collaboration with the CEO.

This role is based in our London office. ClientEarth has a Flexible working policy, however this post is expected to work from the office at least 2 days per week. 

Key Responsibilities

• Sets and delivers the strategic approach for CEO Office coordination and leadership communications (internal), aligning leadership rhythm, decision flow, and engagement to organisational priorities. This includes line management of the PA to the CEO, and close working with the CEO's external communications advisor
• Provides timely counsel to the CEO, flagging up risks and opportunities, and acting with discretion and diplomacy across the organisation to resolve challenges and provide solutions  
• (Where required) Leads on the delivery of key strategic projects for the CEO/Chief Strategy and People Officer, and / or engage to trouble-shoot on existing projects, depending on business need; this could be related to organisational effectiveness, collaboration and engagement, or internal services to the organisation 
• Oversees ClientEarth’s Global Internal Communications & Engagement Programme - including the line-management of our internal communications advisor - to connect colleagues across our offices, promote effective information flow, champion an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture, and embed ClientEarth’s values 
• Support the professional development of line reports through ongoing supervision, influencing them to take positive action and to be accountable for their work and contribution to the smooth-running of the organisation.  

See the job description for a full list of duties for this role.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Substantial experience of managing upwards and guiding senior leaders, trustees/directors and other high level internal and external stakeholders (essential) 
• Experience in copy-writing for senior leadership, drafting high-quality copy tailored to the relevant audience within tight time-frames (essential) 
• Experience in developing internal communication and engagement strategies for medium to large organisations (essential) within an international organisation (desirable)  
• Strong understanding of the external context in which ClientEarth operates, including the wider NGO landscape and political awareness (essential)  
• Strong alignment with ClientEarth’s Values and commitment to our Vision, Mission and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy objectives (essential)  

See the job description for a full list of duties for this role.

Job Benefits

Flexible working:  We are proud to be a Flexa accredited Employer. Visit our Flexa Employer page for more information on our approach to flexible working. Our flexible working policy allows our people the choice to decide to work from home/another location in the country where their contract of employment is issued for 80% of their month, with the other 20% of their month being office-based. See our benefits page for more: Benefits | ClientEarth Careers as well as our flexible working FAQ.
 

ClientEarth values diversity and inclusion and the benefits this brings. We aim to appoint the most suitable candidate at all times and welcome applications from people from all different backgrounds. See our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) at ClientEarth | ClientEarth journey page for more.

Please note that ClientEarth is only able to employ those who have the pre-existing legal right to work in the UK.
 

ClientEarth is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal services to third parties.

BMT is a small, agile charity growing its team, establishing a permanent office, and widening its national impact. This is a critical moment to join and help shape its future. We are seeking a proactive, collaborative senior leader who is equally comfortable with high-level direction and hands-on delivery - someone who gets things done, brings people with them, and acts consistently in the best interests of the organisation and the communities it serves. The COO will ensure BMT's finances, HR, operations, and administration run smoothly, whilst implementing robust systems and preparing the organisation for its next stage of growth.

About the British Muslim Trust

The British Muslim Trust is a UK-registered charity that provides confidential support and safe reporting for victims of anti‑Muslim hate across the UK, research and advocacy. BMT is dedicated to empowering communities through transformational support and to robustly monitor and record anti-Muslim hostility, hate crime and incidents. At the heart of the British Muslim Trust are grassroots communities around the country - the charity aims to connect with the most vulnerable - especially young people and women – who are most affected by anti-Muslim hostility.

The COO will translate BLiM's mission and strategy and ensure its well-run, properly resourced, with its ambitious day-to-day delivery. You will free the CEO to focus on strategic leadership and external influence by owning operations, people management, financial oversight and internal systems.

The COO will be a senior leader who shapes organisational culture, makes operational decisions, manages complex stakeholder relationships and drives the performance of a passionate, high-commitment team. You will be the person the organisation looks to when it needs clarity, stability and momentum.

The COO joins at a moment of leadership transition following the departure of BLiM's co-founder and Director of Operations.

Why Join Us:

Black Lives in Music (BLiM) is a not-for-profit dedicated to advancing racial equity across the UK music industry. We amplify the voices of Black artists, music professionals and communities; drive systemic change; and hold the industry accountable for meaningful progress. Through research, advocacy, programming and strategic partnerships, BLiM creates the conditions for Black talent to thrive.

BLiM has published ground-breaking research including the Being Black in the UK Music Industry report, produced the UK's first Black classical music festival in Classically Black, influenced government policy on live music licensing, and built a network of over 100 partner organisations across the four nations. BLiM is now entering a new phase of its development, with a strengthened leadership team, a Target Operating Model designed to carry the organisation beyond its founding era, and an ambition to become the UK's most influential voice for racial equity in music.

Person Specification 

Essential

• Significant experience in a senior operational leadership role, ideally as a COO, Head of Operations or Director of Operations in a charity, social enterprise or purpose-driven organisation.

• Demonstrable track record of building and improving operational infrastructure: systems, processes, policies and ways of working that make organisations more effective and resilient.

• Proven people management experience, including line management of senior staff, performance development, recruitment and team culture-building.

• Strong financial literacy, including experience of budget management, grant compliance, financial reporting and working with a board finance function.

• Experience of leading or supporting governance processes, including board reporting, risk management and compliance.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex operational information into clear, accessible reports and presentations for senior stakeholders.

• A genuine, demonstrable commitment to racial equity and an understanding of the specific systemic barriers faced by Black professionals, artists and communities.

• The emotional intelligence and interpersonal skill to lead with care, build trust quickly and navigate complex relationships under pressure.

• The resilience and adaptability to thrive in a small, fast-paced, mission-driven organisation where the work is varied, the stakes are high and no day is the same.

Desirable

• Experience of working in or with the music industry, creative industries or arts and culture sector.

• Familiarity with Arts Council England funding frameworks, charity law and the regulatory environment for non-profit organisations.

• Experience of implementing or managing a CRM system, project management platform or other operational technology.

• Knowledge of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) frameworks and how to embed inclusive practice into operational systems and culture.

• Experience of leading an organisation through a period of significant change, transition or growth.

• An existing network within the UK music sector, creative industries or racial equity and social justice space.

At BLiM, we're interviewing on a rolling basis, so we'd encourage you to apply sooner rather than later!

To be considered for a first interview, please include a Cover Letter with your application. This initial conversation will be relaxed and informal, and we'll take you through the full interview process together so you know exactly what to expect at every stage.

CHA is recruiting an experienced and values-driven Chief Operating Officer to lead our central operations and support the delivery of high-quality housing and care services.

As COO, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across residential and sheltered services along with the finance, estates, HR, and other central services—driving performance, ensuring compliance, and enabling sustainable growth. You will work closely with the CEO and Board while leading a diverse team of senior leaders.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading delivery of organisational strategy and continuous improvement
• Managing central teams and driving high performance
• Overseeing financial planning, budgeting, and resource management
• Ensuring compliance, risk management, and governance
• Leading estates strategy, capital projects, and IT/digital development

About you:

• Proven senior leadership experience (housing, social care, or related sectors)
• Strong financial, operational, and people management skills
• Inspiring leader with a collaborative and solution-focused approach

Additional requirement:
Due to our Christian ethos and heritage, there is an occupational requirement for the post holder to have a personal Christian faith.

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a key member of HCPT’s Senior Leadership Team, responsible for the effective delivery and high performance of all operational and business support aspects of the charity’s work. This includes leadership of all business support functions; Finance, HR, IT and Governance, working with and through internal teams and external business partners.  As such we are looking for an experienced chartered accountant who is also astute in leading the wider business operation of medium sized charity.

The postholder will have oversight of the quality and efficiency aspects of all that we do in planning and execution of pilgrimages, care & safeguarding, compliance and infrastructure and will support the CEO to develop a culture of accountability and high impact, whilst staying true to our values of: Compassion, Faith, Inclusion, Community and Celebration.

The COO will ensure that HCPT’s operations are safe, efficient, and aligned with our Catholic ethos and mission of inclusion and care, and that our performance is optimised to deliver excellence, which is:  THE BEST pilgrimage experience we can offer as defined and measured by our beneficiaries and volunteers.

This is a senior role in volunteer-led organisation and as such the successful postholder will be required to exercise flexibility with evening and weekend work to meet the business needs of the charity, given the availability of our volunteer leaders who have professional commitments during the day.

Since 1899, Birmingham Settlement has been working to create opportunity and choice – connecting and empowering people through action, activities, and shared learning to build and sustain wellbeing for all.

Chief Operating Officer

Salary up to £56k per annum (depending on experience)

35 hours per week average (flexible)

25 days A/L + contributory pension scheme

Birmingham Settlement is looking to appoint to the new role of Chief Operating Officer to help us continue to deliver the safe, high-quality services our people want, deserve, and expect.

Working closely with the CEO, the Chief Operating Officer will help translate strategic vision into operational delivery by ensuring the Settlement has the systems, people, and processes in place to achieve its goals. This includes operational support and leadership: working closely with managers and service leads to drive the Settlement’s delivery and people strategies, embedding culture, and organisational development to create and take opportunities while also delivering effective financial management, governance, compliance, and risk management.

To succeed, you will have significant experience in the charity sector at a senior level with a proven track record in service delivery and charity compliance, you will have excellent communication and leadership qualities with ability to motivate and inspire to get the best out of people as well as an understanding of the issues the Settlement strives to challenge. As a critical member of the Settlement’s leadership team, you will play a key role in supporting sustainability, development and implementation of our longer-term strategic plans. This will be a very busy but rewarding visible and hands on role that cuts across all aspects of the charity as we continue to grow and develop.

For an informal / confidential chat please call Theresa Gniadkowski.

No agencies please.

For an application pack visit our website or email us or write to Human Resources, Birmingham Settlement – Sports & Community Centre, 600 Kingstanding Road, Kingstanding, Birmingham, B44 9SH.

Closing date: Wednesday 8 July 2026

Interviews:  Thursday 16 or Friday 17 July 2026

Birmingham Settlement is committed to Equality of Opportunity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Registered charity number 517303

Manchester Central Foodbank is a busy Trussell Trust-affiliated food bank, with centres in Central, North, and East Manchester. We were established in Ardwick in 2013 by students at the Manchester Universities’ Catholic Chaplaincy, making us the first student-led food bank in the country. Since then we have grown significantly, expanding our weekly sessions into Harpurhey and Openshaw.

Our core aims are to deliver the best quality support that we can to the largest number of our neighbours in need, while working with partners and influencing and organising at a neighbourhood and citywide level to reduce and end the need for food banks in Manchester.

We currently support 16,000 people per year with nutritionally balanced 3-day food parcels. This is double the number of people we supported in the first year following the Covid-19 pandemic, and four times the number supported in 2019. We also provide financial inclusion support with advice workers in public sessions, access to energy vouchers, SIM cards, and other voucher or material support. We coordinate across a network of 200 active front-line referral agencies with the aim of ensuring everyone who accesses our service has appropriate, specialised, and ongoing support alongside the material provision that we provide.

We are active leaders in anti-poverty organising and community development, as convenors of the citywide Building an Anti-Poverty Community collective and aim to be key shapers and influencers of new strategies and policies, working closely to support and influence local government, NHS, education and research agendas in Manchester and more widely building upon our track record of successful anti-poverty partnership work, social value impact and Parliamentary influencing. Our core values are: care, partnership, dignity, partnership, anti-stigma and rights-based.

Key responsibilities
As Chief Executive Officer you will be the key senior staff leader for the charity. You will lead the team to ensure they have the resources, frameworks, and support to effect smooth day-to-day running of our frontline support service. You will provide a strong business management focus, through supporting the financial process, overall metrics and reporting, day to day HR and input for the external Payroll Team, Health and Safety, appropriate working conditions, and strategic planning and communications. 

As the senior lead you will also facilitate and support the Board of Trustees to develop and lead strategic development objectives and plans for transformation, and ensure the delivery and implementation of the charity’s overall strategy and specific focused strategies. You will develop and manage strategic relationships with stakeholders including Council, NHS, and other statutory partners and funders, corporate and social value funders and partners, and high-value and donors. You will also plan and lead fundraising strategies. 

You will be a key external interface for our community and partners.  You will do this by:

Staff/Board Leadership and Governance:

• Line managing a current team of operations staff, including those supporting the recruitment, training, and management of a large team of volunteers. 

• Building team spirit and employee engagement and offer.

• Leading and delivering regular staff performance and development reviews.

• Developing and delivering robust metrics and reporting to the board and staff team, through consistent monthly and quarterly reporting packs to the board of trustees.

• Ensuring all staff and volunteers are familiar and engaged with the charity’s long-term goals and objectives, and know how their work helps to implement these on the ground. Leading the development of induction packages and ongoing offers for staff and volunteers. You will be responsible for writing, implementation, and update of institutional policies as needed to staff and volunteers.

• Leading targeted volunteer recruitment strategies to maximise core delivery capacity through volunteer roles and prioritise staffing capacity to core charity operations.

• Ensure policies are kept current.

• Ensure recording and management of absence/leave.

• Ensure Health and Safety aspects of all organisational operations are compliant, in collaboration with the Board sponsor.

• Manage day to day financial input, through the Xero app, and ensure accurate and up-to-date financial reporting for the Board/Treasurer. This includes administering monthly payroll requests.

• Oversee training and personal development plans for staff and volunteers, as appropriate.

• Working with the Chair of Trustees to implement the charity’s strategic plan and structural development objectives.

• Develop and implement ongoing plans and actions to ensure operationally-appropriate and safe office, warehouse, and working spaces.

• Lead on development, modelling, and maintenance of service delivery standards, quality control, and ensuring frontline teams have the appropriate resources, support, and frameworks to deliver high quality and consistent support offers.

Foodbank Management:

• Support the Operations and Project Lead to deliver the smooth running of food bank sessions across multiple centres, ensuring an excellent standard of service across all centres, and seeking to continually develop our service in line with our goals to support the largest number of people with the best support we can while working to reduce and end the need for food banks in Manchester.

• Develop and build a new Delivery Strategy with the Chair of Trustees and Operations and Project Lead.

• Support the Operations and Project Lead and Warehouse and Logistics Coordinator to safely store and maintain optimal stock levels, maximise food donation levels and reduce food spend, develop and maintain relationships with community donors, and record incoming and outgoing stock, with the aim of ensuring that all centres are well stocked to provide as many varied, balanced, and nutritious and culturally-appropriate food parcels as necessary.

• Ensure compliance with the procedures set out in Manchester Central Foodbank’s policies, the Trussell Trust’s Operating Manual, and relevant statutory requirements at all times.

• Ensure our food bank centres provide a safe and dignified environment for clients, free from discrimination, judgement, and stigma.

Strategy and External Relationships:

• Working with the Chair of Trustees on development, monitoring, and implementation of the core charity strategy and sub-strategies. Ensuring the involvement and participation of the food bank’s staff, volunteers, external partners, and service users in all strategic planning and decision making, where appropriate.

• Support the Operations and Project Lead to work build strong relationships with referral partners and wider community and statutory networks of collaborators and support to ensure that our service users are able to access the maximum amount of support before, during, and after accessing our service to minimise the length and severity of financial crisis, maximise their incomes, and provide pathways to ongoing and longer-term support.

• Play an active role in strategic and convening spaces around our city and neighbourhoods to present the foodbank’s approach, bring more partners into our network, and influence policy and funding frameworks.

• Develop and manage a Corporate Relationships and Social Value strategy, including communications, networking, and relationship management.

• Lead on directing the charity’s external communications, including social media, in person, newsletters, company visits, and other content.

• Manage internal communications, including developing and delivering two-way team briefings with the board and staff/volunteers, biannual town halls or away days with board members and staff/volunteers, newsletters, and an open and collaborative, person-focused, and developmental culture within the organisation.

About you

Essential Experience and Knowledge:

• 5 years’ experience of leading a similar profiled charity or organisation and successful Board interaction.

• Experience of leading successful transformation and change for a charity and a strong developmental mindset and focus.

• Have led a team of 5 or more staff members to successful performance, demonstrating experience of coaching and individual development skills.

• Experience in developing and leading successful and engaged volunteering programmes and support.

• Full valid driving licence. 

• Proven experience of leading the development and delivery of strategy and sub-strategies to successful conclusion and fashioning evidenced business cases for current and new development projects.

• Leading multiple complex projects or services, balancing the needs and interests of a range of stakeholders.

• Experience of implementing rigorous reporting and evaluation practices on operations.

• Experience of managing day-to-day financial administration and reporting.

• Evidence of delivering clear metric dashboards and reports.

• Experience of high-quality implementation of Health and Safety and Safeguarding policies and a leadership practice that centres care for staff, volunteers, and service users. Safeguarding lead qualification is desirable but will provide training if not.

• Demonstrable knowledge and experience in HR processes and management.

• Experience in building and delivering strategic plans.

• Proven experience of effective problem solving and responding to crisis situations.

• A good working knowledge of the social welfare and political landscape in Manchester – or demonstrable experience in similar expertise and networking and an openness to learn and develop sector-specific knowledge.

• A nuanced and sensitive understanding of the complex reasons people attend food banks.

Desirable Experience and Knowledge:

• Partnering with and building relationships with Council, NHS, and other statutory partners and funders, corporate and social value partners and funders, high net worth donors, and fundraising through grant applications and individual/community donors.

• Experience of working collaboratively with stakeholders from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, faiths, and views. 

• Experience of handling safeguarding incidents, follow-ups, and debriefs with staff, volunteers, and service users.

• Demonstrated success in delivering communications strategies for internal and external stakeholders, including social media and press content and campaigns.

Personal Skills and Attributes:

• An individual who embodies the values of Manchester Central Foodbank in their core professional practice and personal approach to their work.

• An empathetic and care-centred approach and the ability to centre the experience and outcomes of people from marginalised or socially-excluded backgrounds in core decision-making and prioritisation.

• A leader who takes ownership, accountability, and responsibility to drive an organisation and team forward with a developmental mindset.

• A highly self-motivated and proactive person who centres collaboration and consensus with the staff team, volunteers and Board of Trustees in their approach.

• Able to develop strategy and plans and translate strategy to actionable delivery and developmental projects.

• A high level of literacy and communication.

• A high level of numeracy and ability to analyse data.

• Strong leadership attributes to build engagement and performance with the team.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to motivate, persuade, and coach staff and volunteers.

• Excellent personal organisation skills and the ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities and deadlines.

Lead a small charity making a big difference to young people’s lives

Respected is a growing, values‑driven charity delivering high‑quality, holistic Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) to pupils in Years 7–11. We equip young people with the knowledge, confidence, and values they need to build respectful, healthy relationships and make informed decisions.

We are now seeking a dynamic, hands‑on Chief Executive Officer to lead our next chapter of growth and impact.

As CEO, you will provide strategic leadership, operational oversight and inspirational management to our small staff team and dedicated volunteers. You will work closely with the Board of Trustees to deliver our mission, strengthen our partnerships with schools and ensure the charity operates with excellence, integrity, and sustainability.

This is a role for someone who thrives in a small‑charity environment—balancing strategic vision with practical delivery, and bringing energy, professionalism and heart to everything you do. The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate significant experience in the field in which Respected operates (health and education).

How to apply: click the CharityJob Apply button below to submit a CV and covering letter outlining your relevant skills and motivation.

Closing Date: 30th June 2026

Key Responsibilities
● Lead the development and delivery of Respected’s strategic and operational plans
● Ensure that Respected is informed by research, guidance, legislation and is compliant with statutory requirements in the area of relationships and sex education in schools
● Manage and support staff and volunteers, fostering a positive, inclusive culture
● Oversee programme delivery in schools, ensuring quality, safeguarding and impact
● Maintain strong financial management, budgeting and reporting
● Support effective governance and work closely with the Board of Trustees
● Lead fundraising efforts, including grant applications and donor relationships
● Build partnerships with schools, funders and community stakeholders
● Represent Respected externally as an ambassador for our mission and values

About You
We’re looking for someone who is:
● An experienced leader in the charity sector with a background and qualifications in education, health or youth sector
● Values‑driven, compassionate and committed to safeguarding
● Knowledgeable and impactful leading RSE and/or sexual health education for young people in a youth‑focused context.
● Comfortable working independently and flexibly within a small team
● Experienced in working in or with schools
● Comfortable balancing the requirement to work within statutory national guidance with inspiring our staff and Trustees to uphold the underlying Christian motivation and driving force for all that we do at Respected in accordance with our Ethos statement.

What We Offer
● Salary: £25 per hour
● Hours: 15 hours per week (flexible working pattern possible)
● Contract: Fixed term for two years (extension subject to further funding)
● Location: Office (face-to-face working with some travel required)
● Pension: Statutory workplace pension scheme (NEST)
● Annual Leave: Pro rata entitlement of 28 days plus public holidays
● A supportive, purpose‑driven environment where your leadership will directly benefit young people

Safeguarding & Equality
Respected is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will require an enhanced DBS check.
We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly those under‑represented in leadership roles within the charity and education sectors.

Shape financial strategy and sustainability across our trust.

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Finance Director to lead the financial strategy and operations of the Cabot Learning Federation. This is a pivotal executive leadership role where you will provide assurance to the Chief Operating Officer, CEO and Board of Trustees across all financial matters, including financial sustainability, risk, and control frameworks.

As a key member of the Executive Team, you will play a central role in shaping the long-term financial direction of a large and growing multi-academy trust. You will lead the development and delivery of the Trust-wide financial strategy, ensuring that resources are aligned with priorities and delivering maximum impact for pupils, staff, and communities.

Working closely with senior leaders, Principals, Trustees, and external stakeholders, you will oversee financial planning, statutory reporting, and compliance across the Trust. You will ensure robust systems of internal control, champion value for money, and drive a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.

In this role, you will lead and develop a high-performing finance function across central and academy teams, ensuring strong financial management, effective business partnering, and high-quality support for decision-making at every level of the organisation.

Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday, all year round. A part-time position for 4 days per week may be considered and can be discussed at interview.

Location: You will work through a blended model that includes home working and working at Federation House, Kingswood, Bristol.

About You

To be successful, you will be a highly accomplished and strategic finance leader, combining strong technical expertise with the ability to influence at the executive and board level.

You will have:

• A recognised accountancy qualification (CIMA, ACA or ACCA) with extensive senior-level experience
• Proven experience of leading financial strategy, planning and transformation across a complex organisation
• Strong understanding of financial governance, regulatory frameworks, and systems of internal control
• A track record of delivering value for money and driving organisational performance improvement
• Significant experience of leading, developing, and inspiring high-performing teams
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and translate it into strategic insight
• The confidence and credibility to influence, challenge, and advise executive leaders, Trustees, and stakeholders
• Experience of working with external partners, including auditors, regulators, and funding bodies
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly to diverse audiences

Why Join CLF?

As Finance Director, you will join our Executive Team at a critical stage in our growth, helping to shape the financial future of a large, complex and ambitious organisation.

In return, we can offer you:

• Access to a generous pension through the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
• Generous annual leave entitlement
• A comprehensive induction and ongoing commitment to wellbeing and career progression through a range of training, apprenticeships and in-role/wider-trust development opportunities
• Wellbeing support through an employee assistance programme
• Health benefits, including wellness sessions, gym discounts, and flu jabs
• A range of generous family leave options, including above-industry-average occupational maternity pay
• Cycle-to-work scheme and on-site parking

For further information and to apply for this exciting role, please visit our website via the Apply button.

Closing date: 28 June 2026.
Shortlisting date: 1 July 2026.

Interviews will be a two-stage process comprising an Assessment Morning on 6 July 2026 followed by a final interview on the afternoon of 8 July 2026. 

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high level of interest in the role. Therefore, candidates are advised to apply at their earliest convenience to avoid missing out.

We are an equal opportunity employer and proud to serve a diverse student population and our communities. We strongly believe that representation matters and so encourage applications from underrepresented and global majority groups, including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.

As a Disability Confident Committed Employer, we are dedicated to equity and inclusion and commit to interviewing applicants with a disability who meet the essential criteria. We aim to provide an inclusive and accessible recruitment process and support employees throughout their employment. If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or require any adjustments to support you through the application or interview process, please let us know how we can assist.

Lead change through music. Shape young lives.

Chief Executive - AudioActive

Location: Sussex (Brighton & Worthing base, with regional travel)
Salary: c. £65,000
Contract: Full-time, permanent

About AudioActive

AudioActive is an ambitious youth music charity using creativity to transform young people's lives. Working across Sussex, they support young people - particularly those facing disadvantage - to build confidence, find their voice and progress into education, employment and the creative industries.

With strong local roots and growing national recognition, AudioActive combine youth work, music culture and evidence-led practice to create lasting social impact.

The Opportunity

AudioActive are seeking a new Chief Executive to lead the organisation into its next phase of impact and growth.

Reporting to the Board, you will set strategic direction, strengthen financial sustainability and lead a values-driven organisation through a period of transition and opportunity. This is a high-impact role combining strategy, cultural leadership, external influence and hands-on organisational leadership.

What You'll Do

• Set direction - lead and deliver a clear, ambitious strategy
• Lead people and culture - foster an inclusive, high-performing and youth-centred organisation
• Drive sustainability - develop income, partnerships and long-term resilience
• Champion safeguarding and inclusion - ensure young people remain safe, heard and at the heart of decisions
• Be our voice - represent AudioActive with funders, partners and across the sector
• Deliver impact - strengthen evidence, learning and outcomes for young people

About You

You are a values-led, emotionally intelligent leader with the credibility and judgement to lead a mission-driven organisation.

You will bring:

• Senior leadership experience with strategic and operational responsibility
• A track record of leading change, growth or organisational development
• Experience of fundraising, business development or income generation
• Strong financial and governance oversight
• The ability to build partnerships and influence at a senior level
• A deep commitment to young people, inclusion and safeguarding

A connection to music, youth or creative sectors is highly valued.

Why Join

• Lead a respected, high-impact organisation at a pivotal moment
• Shape strategy and growth with real autonomy
• Work at the intersection of youth, culture and social change
• Make a tangible difference to young people's lives

Recruitment Timeline:

To ensure equitable access to information and uphold AudioActive's commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the charity has hosted a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the Chair/Outgoing CEO.

Application Deadline: 5pm, Monday 15th June 2026

First Interviews: w/c 6th July 2026

Final Interviews: w/c 13th July

How to Apply

Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to AudioActive 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 or Tiku van Houtem or send an email to Senior Appointments 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.

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment

Any offer of employment will be made subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and, where relevant, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in line with our Safer Recruitment Policy.

AudioActive operates within robust safeguarding standards and procedures. We are fully committed to creating a safe environment for the children, young people and communities we work with. As such, we carry out comprehensive checks on all potential new staff to deter individuals with harmful intentions and reduce the likelihood of unsafe practice.

All staff who work directly with children, young people, or have access to confidential information will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check. In line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, applicants are required to disclose any unspent criminal convictions. Certain roles, particularly those involving work with children and vulnerable people, are exempt from the Act and may require disclosure of all convictions, including those that are spent. This will be clearly outlined in the recruitment materials for such roles.

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Organisation: Happy Days
Reporting to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Location: Calderdale

Role Purpose

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) provides strategic and operational leadership across all frontline services, accommodation provision, organisational infrastructure, and compliance functions within the charity.

The COO is responsible for ensuring safe, trauma-informed, financially sustainable, and outcomes-focused delivery for individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, health exclusion, addiction, and crisis.

The role leads operations across the charity’s accommodation portfolio, including winter shelter provision, general needs accommodation, supported accommodation, and intensively supported housing. The COO also oversees the operational platform of the charity’s support programmes, including a community café, community supermarket, crisis drop-in provision, and integrated health clinics.

Working collaboratively with the CEO, Board, statutory agencies, housing provider partners, and wider stakeholders, the COO plays a key leadership role in shaping organisational strategy, strengthening operational systems, embedding trauma-informed practice, and developing innovative models of support that improve long-term outcomes for individuals experiencing multiple disadvantage.

The COO provides executive oversight of, operational risk, health and safety, HR, operational systems, and service compliance, ensuring the organisation maintains robust standards of governance, accountability, and person-centred care across all services.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Provide executive operational leadership across services and organisational functions
• Lead the delivery, development, and continuous operational improvement of:
  • Supported and temporary accommodation services (68+ properties)
  • Crisis and drop-in provision
  • Food programme and social supermarket
  • Winter shelter provision
• Translate organisational strategy into effective operational delivery plans
• Drive organisational improvement, innovation, and sustainable service growth
• Lead operational responses to emerging community need, organisational risk, and system pressures
• Support strategic planning, organisational development, and long-term sustainability
• Lead operational capital development initiatives across the organisation

Housing, Property & Supported Accommodation Executive Oversight of:

• Operational management, legal compliance, health and safety, quality assurance across all accommodation services
• Lead strategic partnerships with housing providers
• Manage delegated housing arrangements and supported housing pathways
• Maximise occupancy, sustainment, and positive move-on outcomes
• Oversee property-related risk management, maintenance coordination, and accommodation standards
• Lead the transformation and redevelopment of The Gathering Place, including partnership working with architects, infrastructure planning, and service design
• Oversee operational development planning for the Bramwell Booth building to support future service delivery and organisational growth

Safeguarding Operational Platform

• Lead organisational safeguarding strategy and systems
• Ensure SOP’s are in place to enable staff to respond effectively to complex needs including:
  • addiction
  • mental ill-health and physical health needs
  • dual diagnosis
  • homelessness
  • domestic abuse
  • offending histories
  • health exclusion
• Oversee serious incidents, risk management, and quality assurance processes
• Promote reflective practice, professional accountability, and safe service delivery
• Lead continuous safeguarding improvement and organisational assurance processes
• Support the organisation’s progression towards recognised safeguarding quality and excellence standards

Health Inclusion & Community Services

• Support development of innovative approaches addressing homelessness, substance use, poverty, and social exclusion
• Contribute to wider system responses focused on prevention, health equity, and community resilience

Corporate Governance, Compliance & Organisational Infrastructure

• Provide executive oversight of organisational governance, operational compliance, and corporate infrastructure
• Lead organisational responsibility for:
  • Human Resources
  • Health & Safety
  • Insurance and organisational risk
  • Operational systems and digital infrastructure
• Ensure robust organisational policies, procedures, and assurance frameworks are developed, implemented, and maintained
• Oversee compliance with employment legislation, health & safety standards, and contractual obligations
• Lead organisational risk management processes, incident oversight, and business continuity planning
• Ensure effective management of organisational insurance provision, liability protection, and risk mitigation
• Support governance reporting, operational assurance, and organisational accountability
• Develop quarterly Trustee and governance reporting packs in conjunction with Heads of Department and the CEO

Systems Development & Digital Transformation

• Lead the development and implementation of operational systems, reporting frameworks, and service infrastructure
• Design and embed systems that improve operational efficiency, safeguarding oversight, housing management, and service coordination
• Use data, insight, and performance analysis to improve outcomes and organisational effectiveness
• Support digital transformation, service modernisation, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Develop monitoring, evaluation, and impact reporting systems to support organisational learning and strategic decision-making

Leadership, Workforce & Organisational Culture

• Foster a high-performing, inclusive, and values-led organisational culture
• Oversee workforce planning, recruitment, retention, supervision, and staff development
• Promote staff wellbeing, reflective practice, and psychologically safe leadership
• Provide leadership oversight and strategic direction for volunteer services and volunteer programme development
• Support the organisation’s progression towards recognised volunteer quality standards, including the VSI Volunteer Excellence Award

Partnerships, Stakeholder Engagement & Representation

• Represent the organisation within strategic partnerships and multi-agency forums
• Work collaboratively with commissioners, funders, housing providers, and community partners

Financial Oversight & Sustainability

• Budget development and financial planning in conjunction with the CEO and Finance Team
• Support organisational sustainability through efficient service delivery
• Monitor operational performance, quality standards, and service outcomes
• Ensure effective governance, accountability, and operational compliance across all services

Person Specification

Essential

• Significant senior leadership experience within homelessness, housing, health, social care, community, or voluntary sector services
• Extensive operational leadership experience across complex, multi-service environments
• Experience leading services supporting individuals with multiple disadvantage and complex needs
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, and organisational risk management
• Experience managing accommodation-based and community support services
• Experience overseeing HR, compliance, governance, and organisational systems
• Experience leading quality assurance, risk, and compliance frameworks
• Strong partnership and stakeholder engagement skills across statutory and voluntary sectors
• Experience managing operational budgets, compliance frameworks, and performance systems

Desirable

• Experience working within homelessness, substance use, or health inclusion services
• Experience working within housing such as a registered housing provider
• Understanding of public health approaches and health inequalities
• Knowledge of housing legislation, supported housing models, and safeguarding frameworks
• Experience with digital transformation, systems implementation, and organisational modernisation

Key Attributes

• Values-driven and strongly committed to social justice and health equity
• Strategic thinker with strong operational leadership capability
• Calm, resilient, and decisive in complex and high-pressure environments
• Compassionate and emotionally intelligent leader
• Strong communicator with the ability to influence across systems and sectors
• Innovative, solutions-focused, and collaborative
• Committed to continuous improvement, accountability, and inclusive leadership

The International Programme Officer will report to our Deputy Director/Global Operations Director and will work closely with personnel and partners in different countries where WW supports development programmes, to ensure the work we support is aligned with WW’s strategy, and that the delivery of our work has impact, is on track and is in line with donor agreements and budgets

ABOUT BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME:

With a mission to enrich the cultural life of our region, Birmingham Hippodrome is one of the most popular theatre complexes in the UK, welcoming over 600,000 people each year. Varied productions in our 1,850-seat auditorium (dating from 1899), and in our 200-seat Patrick Studio ensure we play a key role in the region’s world-class cultural scene. With c.400 live performances annually in our main house, we present nothing but the best in touring musical theatre, ballet, dance, opera, pantomime, drama, and comedy. Our Patrick Studio welcomes a range of smaller-scale productions and is an important base for dance and for the development of new artistic work.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Job Title: Director of People & Culture            

Department: Directors

Job Title of Line Manager: CEO & Artistic Director    

Direct Reports: Head of People, Culture and Talent

Contract: Permanent, Full-time, 37.5 hours per week

Location: Onsite at Birmingham Hippodrome with flexibility for hybrid working

Salary: £75,000 - £80,000 per annum

The Director of People & Culture sits within the Executive Leadership Team and, along with the Artistic Director & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Director of Creative Programmes, Director of Operations and Executive Director. The Executive Team are responsible for striving towards achieving the vision to create ‘a distinctive, world-class Birmingham cultural scene with the Hippodrome at its heart’ and succeeding in the mission to ‘provide that “goosebumps” feeling through memorable and extraordinary experiences’.

The Director of People & Culture plays a key strategic leadership role in shaping an inclusive, values-led and high-performing organisation where people can thrive. Working as part of the Executive Leadership Team, they lead the development of people, culture and talent strategies that support Birmingham Hippodrome’s mission, people and future growth, while also acting as a key liaison with the Board on people and culture matters.

ABOUT YOU:

You’ll need significant senior leadership experience in People/HR/OD, including with people strategy, organisational strategy, workforce planning, and culture change. You’ll have strong experience of employee relations, consultations, restructures, change leadership, and employment law; plus strong experience of leading EDI&B, managing senior stakeholders, and advising executive leaders and Boards. You’ll have a CIPD Level 7 or equivalent, and ideally additional accreditation in areas such as mediation and leadership development. You’ll also need financial leadership skills with the ability to control organisational people spend and manage budgets.

TO APPLY:

For full details of the role and the person specification, please view the candidate pack.

Recognising under-representation in our workforce of the global majority, and people with disabilities, we particularly welcome applicants from those backgrounds.

If you would like to arrange a time to have an informal discussion of the role with one of our Directors, please email us to arrange this. We politely request no contact from agencies.