Chief operating officer jobs in Oxford, oxfordshire

About Us

We are an environmental charity with science at our heart. We help people to take action to protect the nature around them; by connecting them with it and giving them the tools they need to do so. We passionately believe in citizen science and are leaders in it. Our current focus areas include helping to create nature-friendly urban spaces, growing the impact of internationally known citizen science programmes such as Freshwater Watch, developing early career scientists and sharing learning internationally, and working with partners to advance the science, tools and thinking behind citizen science.

What we are looking for

Earthwatch Europe is recruiting a Director of Science and Impact. We are looking for someone with a deep understanding of the pressures facing our natural world and how citizen science and community action can help address these challenges, using high quality data, knowledge and practical demonstration to influence governments and corporations.

You will have a background in citizen science and an in depth understanding of current and future environmental policy trends and priorities.  You will be an experienced leader with excellent interpersonal skills and a track record of successful relationship and partnership development at all levels. You will have strong project and budget management experience, and you will be an exceptional strategic thinker with the ability to create and deliver effective strategies and action plans

Please see the full job description attached.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK; Earthwatch is unable to support visa applications. 

Earthwatch is committed to making any adjustments we can for short-listed candidates, to facilitate participation in our interview process. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo a DBS check and other due diligence checks, given the nature of this position within the charity.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. 

Lead the operations, governance and compliance that enable Solving Kids' Cancer UK to deliver its mission and impact for children and families affected by neuroblastoma. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will play a critical role in ensuring the charity operates effectively, compliantly and sustainably.

This broad and varied leadership role spans governance, risk, HR, IT, data protection and organisational operations, supporting delivery of the charity's strategy through robust systems, policies and processes. Acting as Company Secretary, you will work closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees, providing advice on governance, regulatory requirements and best practice. As a member of the Leadership Team, you will oversee key operational functions, lead cross-organisational projects and deputise for the CEO where required.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a strategic, highly organised and values-driven leader with strong experience in charity operations, governance and compliance. You will have a track record of ensuring organisations are well run, compliant and effectively managed, with the ability to oversee multiple operational areas and support strong governance and decision-making at Board level.

You will be comfortable working across a broad remit, including governance, risk, HR, IT and data protection, and confident providing clear, practical advice to senior leaders and trustees.

Person specification

Key requirements include:

• Significant senior-level experience in operations, governance or compliance within a charity or similar environment. 
• Strong understanding of charity governance and regulation, with experience supporting boards and senior leadership. 
• Experience overseeing organisational functions such as HR, IT, data protection or risk. 
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and lead cross-organisational work effectively. 
• Strong judgement, integrity and the ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion. 

See our Recruitment Pack for the full role description and specification and for information about Solving Kids' Cancer UK. 

This is an opportunity to make a significant contribution at the heart of a small, ambitious charity where strong operations are a vital enabler of impact for children and families.

Location: Home-based, within easy reach of London, with regular travel to the London office and occasional UK-wide travel.

First-stage interview: Thursday 6 August 

Second-stage interview: Thursday 13 August

Do you believe in the power of communities to shape change?
OCVA is seeking a values-driven Chief Executive to inspire, connect and champion Oxfordshire’s community and voluntary sector.

This is an opportunity to lead a respected local infrastructure organisation at the heart of Oxfordshire’s voluntary and community sector. As Chief Executive of OCVA, you will work alongside a committed Board and a small, passionate team to support charities and community groups, promote and champion volunteering, influence local systems, and ensure the sector’s voice is heard.

You will balance strategic leadership with strong relationships. This includes working closely with local councils, funders and partners, while staying grounded in the realities faced by community organisations. 

We are looking for someone who shares our values, understands the voluntary and community sector, and is motivated by making a meaningful difference. The role is as much about listening, collaboration and trust as it is about income, sustainability and delivery. If our mission resonates and you bring curiosity, integrity and a commitment to inclusive leadership to all that you do then we would love to hear from you.

Location: Remote

Salary: £29,000 - £32,000 pro rata depending on experience (£17,400 - £19,200)

Hours of work: 3 days (21 hours) per week

Contract type: Fixed, 12-month Maternity Cover

Why work for Kids Matter?

• Generous annual leave – 25 days (plus bank holidays) per year pro rata, with time off between Christmas and New Year's additional to this allowance.
• Remote working contribution – receive £26/month pro rata towards the costs of working from home and/or using a co-working space.
• Access to coaching sessions, training opportunities and our Employee Assistance Programme (a confidential support service for staff).
• Flexible working across weekdays to suit your schedule.

About us

Kids Matter is one of the UK’s fastest growing children’s charities. Our vision is to see every child in need raised in a strong family. Our mission is to reduce the impact of poverty on children through community-based parenting programmes.

Research shows that group-based early intervention parenting groups are the most effective way to support children in need. We train peer facilitators in local churches - the largest voluntary body in the country - to run our affordable, accessible and highly effective parenting programmes, written by Clinical Psychologists. They come alongside parents and carers, building long-lasting community in addition to encouraging confidence and learning positive parenting skills.

We value difference and diversity, and we want our workplace to be built on shared values of equality and mutual trust, with team members representing the wide range of backgrounds and experiences that exist within the UK. We therefore actively encourage applications from people of diverse backgrounds and varied experiences, particularly those who are African, Afro-Caribbean, Asian or part of other minority ethnic communities, who have lived experience of the impact of low-income/low-support circumstances, and who are living with a disability or identify as being neurodivergent.

About the role

The Executive Assistant to the CEO role involves:

• Coordinating and maintaining the CEO's diary including organising all appointments, meetings and travel arrangements.
• Identifying, anticipating and preparing CEO information requirements for meetings, appointments and presentations, following up on internal and external requests for information.
• Managing all administration processes relating to the SLT.
• Supporting the CEO and the Fundraising Team with major donor management, including keeping contacts and actions updated, researching prospective donors, communicating with existing donors, coordinating thank you cards and gifts, and tracking secured donations.

About you

Do you have strong attention to detail and accuracy? Can you use initiative and be proactive? Are you a Christian with an active faith in Jesus? Do you have a passion for Kids Matter’s vision of seeing every child in need raised in a strong family?

Then we would love to hear from you!

How to apply

You can apply for the Executive Assistant to the CEO (maternity cover) position by clicking ‘Apply via Website’ and completing a copy of our online application form.

The deadline for applications is Tuesday 28th July. All successful and unsuccessful applicants will be notified by email.

We also ask for all applicants to submit an Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form, which will be sent to you to complete following the submission of your application. This form will be used for anonymous analysis to ensure our overall recruitment procedures are fair and transparent. It will never be viewed or used as part of the selection process. It is optional to submit this form.

If you would like any application/interview support or you need any reasonable adjustments throughout the application process, or if you would like an informal phone call to ask questions or discuss the role, please contact Katie Washington (HR & Systems Manager).

Please see the job pack for more details on the role and application process.

Salary: £60,000 (full time equivalent)

Hours: Full or part-time working, we are open to flexible working arrangements and applications from candidates seeking 30+ hours per week. Salary will be calculated on a pro rata basis for part time hours.

Location: The role is home-based, with regular travel across the South East, alongside occasional national travel.

Job Type: 12 months fixed term contract (Subject to the organisation's future strategic priorities and financial position, there may be the opportunity for the role to become permanent)

Chiltern Music Therapy is seeking an Interim Chief Executive Officer for a 12-month appointment to lead an ambitious programme of organisational transformation and sustainable growth. Working closely with our Board and team, you will strengthen our financial sustainability, develop new opportunities for growth and leave the organisation well positioned for its next permanent Chief Executive. 

Hello, we’re Chiltern.

We are a social enterprise providing music therapy, community music services and training across England. Each year, we support more than 2,000 children, young people and adults across health, education, social care and community settings.

For many years, we have been exploring and developing a more self-managing and distributed approach to organisational life — one rooted in trust, autonomy, shared responsibility and reflective practice. This has helped us build a highly engaged and thoughtful team, alongside services that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

We are entering an exciting period of change, with a clear ambition to strengthen our commercial sustainability, increase our reach, grow our income and ensure our operating model is fit for the future. This interim appointment is a key part of that journey, bringing focused leadership to help us deliver meaningful organisational change while remaining true to our collaborative culture and values. 

About the role

This is a delivery-focused interim leadership role with a clear mandate to accelerate organisational transformation and sustainable growth over the next 12 months. 

The role combines strategic leadership of the organisation with hands-on responsibility for strengthening financial sustainability, business development, organisational alignment and ensuring the organisation is well positioned for long-term success.

We are looking for a CEO who is excited by creating opportunities. Someone who enjoys building relationships, spotting potential and turning ideas into sustainable partnerships that increase both our impact and our income. A central part of this role is generating new business for Chiltern by developing strategic partnerships, securing larger-scale opportunities and helping us grow in ways that remain true to our values and culture. 

The role requires someone who can comfortably hold both the bigger picture and the operational reality — someone who enjoys being connected to the organisation, understanding how things are working in practice and helping create the conditions for people and services to thrive.

We are looking for a leader who is relational, commercially aware and emotionally intelligent; someone who can navigate complexity with clarity and steadiness, and who is comfortable working within a collaborative and distributed leadership culture rather than a traditional hierarchy.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for someone who can operate effectively in a self-organising, values-led, evolving system.

We are interested in hearing from people with senior leadership experience within complex, people-focused organisations.

You may come from health, education, social care, the charity sector, social enterprise, or another relevant service environment. What matters most is your ability to step into organisations during periods of change and quickly build trust, momentum, and clarity.

The successful candidate will leave a lasting legacy by strengthening the organisation's sustainability, capability, and readiness for its next phase of development. 

You'll work within a collaborative and, values-led organisation, but you'll also be expected to provide clear direction, make confident decisions, prioritise effectively, and deliver measurable progress over a 12-month period. 

You will likely bring:

• Experience leading organisational transformation or significant change

• A track record of driving sustainable growth and income generation

• Strong commercial and financial leadership

• Ability to quickly build credibility with Boards, staff and external partners

• Experience delivering measurable organisational improvement

• Excellent relationship-building and influencing skills

• Confidence making decisions in complex environments

Experience of self-managing, employee-owned or distributed leadership environments would be welcomed, although this is not essential.

We’ve outlined the essential and desirable experience, knowledge and attributes for this role in the full candidate pack.

We know that strong candidates do not always meet every requirement. If this role resonates with you, we would encourage you to consider applying.

Recruitment process

We aim to make our recruitment process thoughtful, proportionate and human. You will be asked to complete an application form, answering some questions to demonstrate your skills and how you meet the requirements of the role.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview/ strategic leadership conversation with Board members and will be asked to deliver a presentation.

The application deadline is Sunday 26th July at midnight, with interviews/strategic leadership conversations taking place at Irwin Mitchell, London, EC4Y 0AY on Wednesday 12th August.

A full candidate pack is available here, including further information about the role and our organisational approach. 

How to apply

Please complete the application form on our website and email a summary of your relevant experience (maximum 2 pages, traditional CV optional).

Get in touch

If you have any questions about the role, would like to discuss accessibility or reasonable adjustments, please contact us.

Role Overview

As part of the CfA funding, we have an exciting opportunity for a Finance Officer to join GSF. This is a part-time role, based remotely within the UK.

This role will be central to ensuring that all financial aspects of the Communities for Afghans programme are delivered to the highest standards of accuracy, compliance, and transparency. You will oversee budget management, financial reporting, grant payment processes, and fraud prevention measures, ensuring that every pound is spent in line with government and contractual requirements.

You will work closely with other team members, Sponsor Groups, and funders to ensure financial processes are efficient, clear, and fully compliant. This is an opportunity to make a real impact by ensuring that funding reaches Afghan families quickly and appropriately, enabling them to settle into safe homes and begin building their new lives in the UK.

About the Role

As Finance Officer, you will:

· Manage programme budgets, spending, and grant tracking to ensure every aspect of funding is compliant with grant conditions.

· Act as the primary point of contact for Sponsor Groups and internal staff on finance-related queries.

· Maintain meticulous financial records for audit purposes and ensure timely and accurate reporting to funders.

· Implement strong controls and authorisation processes to ensure financial probity.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

The role will involve the following, but is not exhaustive:

Financial Management & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with government grant conditions and all funder requirements.

• Manage the Communities for Afghans programme budget and track expenditure.

• Contract management and compliance monitoring for all funding contracts.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records for audit purposes.

• Arrange deposits for accommodation when required.

Payments & Authorisation

• Design and maintain a clear payment authorisation flow.

• Process payments and invoices efficiently and accurately.

• Require proof of spend / evidence packs from Sponsor Groups using standard templates.

• Process payments to Sponsor Groups only after authorisation.

Monitoring & Fraud Prevention

• Work with the Sponsor Group Relationship Manager and Sponsor Groups to ensure grant funds are used correctly, providing guidance on compliant spending and supporting them to submit evidence packs using standard templates.

• Carry out periodic spot checks and reconciliations of Sponsor Group expenditure to confirm accuracy and transparency.

• Implement fraud controls, such as dual sign-off and audit trails, to safeguard programme funds.

• Provide independent assurance of correct grant usage within six months after the end of the financial year, helping to identify and address any issues proactively.

• Report any significant compliance concerns to the Operations Director and contribute to improving financial processes where needed.

Sponsor Group Support

• Ensure guidance and templates are clear, accessible, and consistent with funder requirements.

ProVeg International is one of the leading international NGOs working to transform the global food system, and is represented in 16 countries with over 270 staff members (a federated network of 15 legal entities). ProVeg faces major opportunities and challenges – empowering our highly dedicated and experienced long-term staff and new talent development and acquisition, the integration of AI, changing funding landscapes, and the growth of our global network, to name but a few. In our work, we are guided by our global TRUe values:

• Transformative: We aim high and design for lasting impact. We prioritise evidence over intuition, pivoting when data demands it, and embracing bold experimentation to create systemic change.

• Reliable: We build trust through accountability. We do what we say we will, or we communicate early and transparently when we can’t, always focusing on quality and respect.

• United: We win together. We actively break down silos, co-create across borders, and share knowledge freely because collective success is our only success.

The role as Head of International People & Culture combines strategic leadership with hands-on operational excellence. Together with the International Senior Talent Acquisition Manager and, when required, specialised external support, you will serve as a vital operational anchor and a trusted advisor to senior leadership. You will shape a united, inclusive, and thriving organisational culture while ensuring our people processes, international compliance frameworks, and global HR systems are robust, efficient, and employee-centred.

Job details:
 

• Reports to: Global CEO (might change to COO once that role is filled in 2027)

• Department: INT People and Culture

• Direct reports: International Senior Talent Acquisition Manager

• Key contacts: Senior Leadership Team, ProVeg Country Directors/leadership teams, International Heads of Departments, P&C leads in ProVeg Countries

• Working hours: 40 hours per week

• Location: Remote (We welcome candidates globally who hold permanent residency and can adhere to a working schedule that includes core collaboration hours of 10 am to 4 pm CET)

• Salary: Depending on location and experience (e.g. NL: €54-64k, UK: £46-60k, PL: zł 140-170k)

• Application deadline: open until filled

• Start date: preferably 01.10.2026

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership and Culture:

• Develop and implement comprehensive people strategies aligned with our global mission.

• Lead the strategic workforce planning, scaling and organisational growth and expansion of team and talent.

• Provide clear, operational, and strategic advice to executives, country directors, and department heads aimed at high performance, growth, development and progression opportunities, and talent retention.

• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, offering insights, reports, and data for informed decision-making.

• Work with Finance on annual staff budgeting and the Development department on funding applications and other people-related requests.

• Shape, sustain, and champion an inclusive, diverse, and open organisational culture.

• Collaborate with the Dutch works council of our European Regional Office to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.
   

Operational Excellence and Systems:

• Own and continuously improve the day-to-day administration of our international employee lifecycle, ensuring smooth contract management, payroll preparation, and data accuracy.

• Lead the development of a scalable people operations infrastructure through effective use of technology, automation, and process design.

• Oversee and optimise our global HR systems landscape, with primary ownership of platforms such as Deel, Personio, and Leapsome.

• Manage and maintain compliant employment frameworks across relevant jurisdictions, supporting international entity operations and coordinating with external legal partners.

• Set and oversee the departmental budget.
   

Talent and Team Leadership:

• Lead, develop, and inspire our International Senior Talent Acquisition Manager, fostering a collaborative, supportive, and high-impact environment.

• Guide our international recruitment framework and employer branding efforts to attract purpose-driven talent.

• Execute strategies for employee engagement, workplace satisfaction, and global well-being initiatives.

• Lead and support employee relations efforts and strategic reviews.

Qualifications:
 

You bring:

• Extensive international leadership experience in a senior HR or generalist role, with a track record of driving success in mission-driven non-profit organizations of 50+ employees.

• Deep expertise in people operations, international employment practices, and cross-border labour law compliance.

• Hands-on experience implementing and managing global HRIS, payroll, or employer-of-record platforms, ideally including Deel, Personio, or Teamtailor.

• Clear capability to turn operational complexity into simple, structured, and scalable processes.

• Exceptional interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to foster trust and inclusivity across distributed, multicultural teams.

• Fluency in English with excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• University degree in human resources management, business administration, psychology, law, or an equivalent educational background.
   

Preferred:

• Practical experience working with European legal entities or works councils.

• Familiarity with AI tools and understanding of how AI can be used responsibly to increase efficiency and scale systems.

• Professional language skills in Dutch, providing the confidence to interface directly with regional authorities or local legal advisors.

• Familiarity with project management tools (we use Wrike).

Benefits of working with ProVeg:
 

• A strong organisational focus on personal development, with a designated training budget.

• Provision of a work laptop.

• Flexible, trust-based working arrangements and home-office arrangements.

• Career development support.

• Mental health & wellbeing support via access to the OpenUp platform and a free Headspace subscription

• We are a workplace that encourages everyone to bring their whole selves to work. We are an inclusive workplace for our diverse employees around the world.

• Generous annual leave entitlement - 25 days increasing by one day a year to a maximum of 30 days (plus bank holidays)

• And, last but not least, become part of a great team and work with us towards a world where everyone chooses delicious and healthy food that is good for all humans, animals, and our planet!

• Depending on your location, there might be additional benefits.

Further Information

Please apply with your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are motivated to join ProVeg and describe how you can bring in your experience to this role. Even if you do not meet all the requirements, we still encourage you to apply. Our tasks are diverse, and we are flexible in how we distribute them. We are happy to support your growth and development.
We also encourage all applicants to apply without a photo or disclosing their date or place of birth.

If you are living with a disability, health condition and/or neurodiversity, please feel free to let us know how we can adjust and support your application process. For example, we can offer alternative tools, different interview formats, or additional time for tasks.

Important: Please make sure to use your own words and ideas in the cover letter. The goal is for us to know you better in order to assess if this role and your motivation are a good fit. Letters written with AI, or written in a language other than English, will be disregarded.

Application process:

1. Screening of your application

2. Interview with People & Culture (30-40mins)

3. Job related trial task (~ 2 hrs.)

4. Second interview with the team (60mins)

Join Mersey Rivers Trust and Help Make a Real Impact for Rivers, Wildlife and Communities! 

Are you a skilled finance and governance professional looking to use your expertise for good? Mersey Rivers Trust is seeking a Finance and Governance Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team and help shape the future of our environmental charity. 

We’re a passionate team working to protect and restore rivers across Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire — and we need someone like you to ensure our finances and governance are as strong as our mission. 

APPLICANTS MUST LIVE WITHIN OR CLOSE TO THE MERSEY CATCHMENT – APPLICATIONS FROM OUTSIDE THIS AREA CANNOT BE CONSIDERED.

The Mersey Rivers Trust (MRT) is an environmental charity focussing on the protection and enhancement of rivers and waterbodies in the Mersey Catchment. It operates in an area covering Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire. We have an annual turnover of c£1m and employ 19 staff delivering up to 30 projects per year. The Trust works with partners, local communities, and volunteers to deliver a wide range of projects including river restoration, reduction of flood risk by Natural Flood Management techniques, river monitoring, volunteer events (eg river clean-ups/invasive species control and citizen science), community engagement and education events, farm advice/plans and biodiversity net gain. The Trust continues to evolve to meet the increasing challenges of protecting and enhancing rivers and waterbodies in the catchment.

We are seeking a Finance and Governance Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the Trust’s finance, governance, and back-office functions. This is a pivotal role focused on ensuring financial integrity, regulatory compliance, and effective charity governance. While not involved in field-based project delivery, the Finance Manager plays a strategic role in supporting the organisation’s mission by enabling robust financial planning, reporting, and operational support. You will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Board of Trustees, and project teams to ensure the Trust remains financially resilient and well-governed.

As the Finance and Governance Manager, you should possess expertise in financial control and reporting, allowing you to effectively handle delegated responsibilities. Your numerical skills and critical thinking abilities will enable you to proactively address challenges and streamline processes. 

The role holder will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and will be a member of the Senior Leadership Team. The role will also include direct line management responsibilities of the Administration Officer. 

If you are a motivated financial professional with a passion for driving organisational success, we invite you to apply and contribute to our team’s growth. 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the management of the back-office function and Charity governance of MRT. 

• Act as the Company Secretary to ensure compliance with financial and legal requirements, as well as maintaining high standards of Charity governance. 

• Work with the Chief Executive Officer to prepare and manage budgets, provide input to the Trust’s business plan and strategic initiatives. 

• Contribute to the strategic direction of the Trust as a member of the Senior Leadership Team. 

• Provide financial insight and analysis to support strategic decision-making and long-term planning. 

• Support the development and implementation of organisational policies and procedures to ensure good governance. 

• Act as a key liaison with the Board of Trustees, preparing and presenting financial and governance reports to inform oversight and decision-making. 

• Lead on the development of internal controls and risk management strategies to safeguard the Trust’s assets and reputation. 

• Oversee all payments, manage cash flow, income and claims. 

• Support financial planning for grant funding applications to support delivery of our objectives. 

• Line management of the Administration Officer. 

• Renew the annual insurance policy ensuring adequate cover and value for money. 

• Maintain, oversee, and update all project management reporting systems on time and to budget (including timesheets, expenses and monthly reports). 

• Complete all necessary reports and keep suitable records in line with the funding requirements and document retention policy. 

• Highlight any new risks and issues identified whilst carrying out duties, and work with the team to manage and resolve them. 

• Fulfil duties as assigned by the Chief Executive Officer. 

• Any other reasonable duties as required by MRT. 

The post holder will be home based with travel throughout the Mersey catchment. The applicant will need to live within or close to the Mersey catchment to facilitate regular travel to meetings. Remote working from other parts of the country cannot be considered for this role due to the need for regular face-to-face interactions.

Candidate Profile

Essential 

• A financial control and reporting background with an accounting qualification (e.g. AAT, CIMA) or qualified by experience. 

• Experience of organisational governance, ideally with knowledge of UK General Accounting Practice and Charities regulations. 

• Experience of financial and management reporting within a small to medium-sized charitable or not for profit organisation. 

• Experience of liaising with accountants to prepare annual accounts and reports required by the Charity Commission. 

• Experience of cash flow forecasting. 

• Familiarity with Xero financial and project management software (or similar). 

• A confident and clear communicator with the ability to communicate financial information in an appropriate manner for non-financial trustees and staff. 

• Aptitude in problem-solving. 

• Self-motivated and able to work effectively from home with strong communication skills and with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. 

• Ability to work flexibly across the working week when necessary. 

• Ability to prioritise and plan activities to meet strict deadlines. 

• Excellent literacy, numeracy and report-writing skills. 

• Excellent presentation and communication skills. 

• Strong negotiation and influencing skills. 

• Good computer literacy skills (e.g. with Excel, Word, PowerPoint and project reporting systems). 

• A reliable team player with good attendance and work performance. 

• Ability to set performance objectives and ensure these are achieved. 

Desirable 

• Experience in financial planning for funding applications. 

• Understanding of small-scale charitable trading. 

• Experience of commercial contract management. 

• Experience of managing an IT service provider.

• Knowledge of the Mersey Catchment.

• Experience in Human Resources

General Notes

• Some travel around the Mersey Catchment will be necessary therefore a current driving licence and access to a vehicle (insured for business use) is desirable or otherwise access to public transport networks. 
• This positive will from time to time requires work during some evenings, weekends and public holidays to meet the needs of the post. A time off in lieu system is operated by the Trust.

• We will also require the successful applicant to undergo a basic DBS check and provide satisfactory references from previous employers. 

Term and Conditions

The following terms and conditions are typically offered to Mersey Rivers Trust staff and are set out as a guide only. Terms and conditions may vary according to circumstances, and this summary does not form part of any subsequent employment

Annual leave: 25 days annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays that fall on working days and a 3 day shutdown between Christmas and New Year.

Location: Home Based

About the Role

As we scale, we are looking for a Head of Operations to provide operational leadership to ensure the charity operates effectively, compliantly and sustainably in line with its mission and ethos. Working closely with the CEO, you will support the translation of the vision into reality by building strong foundations, enabling effective delivery, and supporting the scaling of the organisational from a regional base to a nationally impactful charity.

This is a pivotal role shaping how BeSpace grows. You will lead on strengthening systems, people, governance and operational delivery embedding accountability, and continuous improvement.

In this role, you will:

Strengthen governance, risk and compliance

· Develop and maintain robust governance frameworks and ensure legal and regulatory compliance

· Embed effective risk management processes

· Oversee key compliance areas including safeguarding, GDPR and reporting

Build operational systems and infrastructure

· Develop and implement scalable systems, processes and internal controls

· Improve data management (including CRM) and strengthen reporting

· Contribute to ensuring operational readiness to support national growth

· Work with external providers on IT and financial system integration

Lead people, culture and organisational development

· Oversee recruitment, onboarding and retention of a high-performing team

· Strengthen performance management and accountability frameworks

· Support and foster a values-led, healthy team culture aligned with BeSpace’s mission

Enable delivery, impact and growth

· Strengthen operational support for programme delivery and expansion

· Support the translation of strategic ambitions into practical systems and ways of working

· Improve data insight to inform decision-making

· Support development of fundraising infrastructure.

Contribute to wider organisational life

· Work collaboratively across the team to support evolving priorities

· Act as an ambassador for BeSpace’s values and Christian ethos

About You

We are looking for someone who:

· Has experience in operations, programme or an organisational role with increasing responsibility or has had operational leadership, ideally within a growing or changing organisation

· Has good experience in developing systems, processes and organisational infrastructure

· Can work closely with a CEO to translate vision into operational delivery

· Has excellent organisational and project management skills

· Is proactive, collaborative and relational leader who builds strong teams and culture

 It would be a bonus if you:

 · Are an experienced operational leader motivated by impact, flexibility, and supporting the growth of a mission-led organisation

· Have significantly enabled the scaling of a regional organisation to national growth operationally.

· Have experience in fundraising systems or donor management

The Stuart Hall Foundation is seeking an experienced Operations and Finance Manager to support the effective financial, operational, and governance management of the Foundation. Working closely with the Executive Director, team and Trustees, the role plays a key part in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the organisation and its long-term sustainability.

About the Stuart Hall Foundation

Inspired by the life and work of the eminent scholar and intellectual Professor Stuart Hall, the Stuart Hall Foundation (SHF) was launched in 2015 by his family, friends and colleagues to continue his life’s work and build on his unique and distinct legacy by attending to the urgent political, social, and cultural questions of our time. Our mission is to popularise critical thought by supporting the creative and intellectual development of a new generation of artists, academics and activists who are dedicated to challenging issues of inequality through their work. We pursue this mission by equipping underrepresented practitioners with the learning resources and research opportunities necessary to shape and expand public debates on politics, history and culture. We fulfil our mission by:

• Creating Opportunities - offering artist residencies, commissions, scholarships, fellowships, and other opportunities to underrepresented people from a variety of backgrounds, disciplines, and geographic locations.
• Convening Spaces - creating digital and physical spaces for the public, our network of artists, researchers, activists and other stakeholders to exchange and generate ideas together.
• Developing Digital Resources - creating free-to-access digital learning resources that encourage critical thinking and interdisciplinary approaches to address contemporary political and cultural issues (across arts, academia and cultural activism).

Role Description

The Operations and Finance Manager will play a central role in ensuring the effective day-to-day running of the Foundation. The postholder will lead on governance, administration, finance, compliance and organisational systems, ensuring the charity operates efficiently, meets its regulatory obligations and has the infrastructure required to deliver its strategic objectives.

Working closely with the Executive Director, team, Treasurer, and Trustees, the Operations and Finance Manager will oversee financial management, governance processes, organisational administration and operational planning, while also supporting fundraising activities to ensure the Foundation’s long-term sustainability and effectiveness.

Required Experience and Skills

Operations, Finance and Governance

• Proven experience in an operations or administrative management role within a charity, arts, or non-profit organisation.
• Understanding of charity governance and experience supporting Boards, Committees, or Trustees.
• Strong financial management experience, including budgeting and cash flow monitoring, invoice processing, payroll administration, project budget reconciliation, preparation of management accounts and financial reports, and coordination of year-end accounts preparation.
• Excellent attention to detail, with a track record of maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with organisational policies and procedures.

People and Organisational Management

• Knowledge of HR processes, including recruitment, payroll, and fostering positive work culture.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential staff and organisational information.
• Excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Communications and Digital Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly IT literate, with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (including Word and Excel) and the ability to quickly learn and use a range of digital collaboration and organisational tools, such as Zoom, Dropbox, Notion, and similar software.

Personal Attributes

• Proactive and adaptable, with the ability to take initiative, prioritise tasks, and respond effectively to changing circumstances.
• Collaborative and personable, with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues, Trustees, stakeholders, suppliers, and partners.
• Passionate about organisational planning and supporting teams to operate effectively and efficiently.  

Desirable Experience

• Experience supporting grant management, fundraising administration, or donor reporting.
• Experience using cloud-based accounting software, such as Xero, to support financial management and reporting.
• Experience working remotely and managing priorities effectively within a distributed team environment.
• Interest in the work, legacy and impact of Professor Stuart Hall

 Application Process

To apply, please complete the online application form, available on the Stuart Hall Foundation's website.

As part of the application form you will be required to submit a CV (maximum two pages), a one-page A4 cover letter, and contact details for two professional referees.

We also encourage applicants to complete our Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form. This is optional and will not form part of the selection process.

The deadline for applications is 2nd August 2026 at 23:59pm. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept late applications.

Interviews will take place via Zoom on w/c 24th August 2026.

The appointment is subject to satisfactory previous employment references.

Diversity, social justice and access were central to Stuart Hall’s work in education and the arts, and are embedded in the Foundation’s values, programme and approach. The Stuart Hall Foundation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.

The Communications Manager provides operational leadership for CLAPA's communications delivery, ensuring communications and marketing activity is effectively planned, prioritised and delivered in support of the charity's strategic objectives. 

Reporting to the Head of Communications and Marketing, the postholder is responsible for translating the communications strategy into coordinated day-to-day delivery. They will oversee the planning, scheduling and operational management of communications activity across the organisation, ensuring work is appropriately prioritised, resources are allocated effectively and projects are delivered to a consistently high standard. 

The role directly manages CLAPA's Communications Officers, embedding effective planning, briefing and workflow processes that enable the team to deliver proactive, creative and high-quality communications.

Acting as the primary operational lead for communications delivery, the postholder will ensure colleagues across CLAPA receive responsive, well-planned communications support while maintaining clear priorities and protecting the team's capacity to deliver its best work. 

If you think you have the talent, passion and experience to help us ensure we can always meet the needs of the community we serve, we want to hear from you.

We're looking for an experienced Governance Manager to play a pivotal role at the heart of CILIP. Working closely with Trustees, Board and Committee Chairs, the Executive Team and the Presidential Team, you will help ensure that CILIP operates to the highest standards of governance, accountability and compliance.

This is an excellent opportunity for a governance professional who enjoys building strong relationships, improving processes and supporting effective decision-making.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to the Interim Finance Director, the Governance Manager will lead and coordinate governance, compliance and organisational processes across CILIP.

You will be responsible for supporting effective decision-making, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and providing expert governance support to the Board, Committees and Executive Team.

This role combines strategic oversight with hands-on delivery and is ideal for someone who enjoys driving good governance while ensuring operational excellence.

This is a fixed-term role for 9 months due to organisational planning requirements.

Key areas of delivery:

Governance and Board Support
Lead and continuously improve governance processes, support the effective operation of the Board and Committees, and provide advice on governance best practice.

Policy and Compliance
Oversee CILIP's policy governance framework, coordinate policy reviews and support compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.

Executive and Organisational Coordination
Support the Executive Team through the coordination of key meetings, events, organisational planning and corporate administration.

Presidential Team Support
Coordinate the activities of the Presidential Team, ensuring effective planning, stakeholder communication and logistical support.

Continuous Improvement
Identify opportunities to strengthen governance systems, improve ways of working and promote accountability and transparency across the organisation.

ABOUT YOU

We're looking for an experienced governance professional who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys working with senior stakeholders to ensure organisations operate effectively and compliantly.

You will bring:

• Experience supporting governance within a charity, membership body or similar organisation.
• A strong understanding of charity governance, trustee responsibilities and regulatory requirements.
• Experience supporting Boards and Committees and managing governance processes.
• Excellent stakeholder management, communication and relationship-building skills.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and deliver to deadlines.
• High levels of accuracy, discretion and sound judgement when handling sensitive information.
• A proactive approach to improving processes and ways of working.
• Strong digital skills, including Microsoft 365.

You'll also be a professional, credible and resilient individual who can work independently while remaining highly collaborative, and who shares CILIP's commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and public benefit.

Desirable: Experience of company secretariat responsibilities, statutory filings, governance or board portal systems, and relevant governance or compliance qualifications.

ABOUT CILIP

CILIP is the leading voice for the information, knowledge management and library profession. We are here for everyone who has a professional connection to information, knowledge, data and libraries, and share our belief in their power to change lives.

Our purpose is to unite, support and empower information professionals across all sectors.

Operations Manager 

Organisation: Religions for Peace United Kingdom (RfPUK)

Salary: £38,000 – £42,000 

Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week). Core working hours are 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday. Home-based employees are expected to be available and responsive during these hours.

Contract: Fixed-term (12 months) 

Location: Home-based / hybrid (occasional travel)

Reporting to: Chair of the Board of Trustees

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to take full operational responsibility for a small, ambitious charity. You will run governance, compliance, contract management, finance liaison, data protection, safeguarding, HR, and grant administration. You will work directly with the Chair.

This is a leadership role for someone who can run the day-to-day operation to its required compliance independently. This is NOT an administrative support role.

Key responsibilities

• Board administration (agendas, minutes, documents, filings, trustee records)

• Contract and grant administration (drafting, tracking, compliance)

• Finance liaison (working with finance service provider, accountant, treasurer)

• Compliance (GDPR, safeguarding, risk register, Charity Commission filings and all charity related issues)

• HR and resource management

• Website and social media coordination

Essential criteria

• 4+ years in a leadership or senior operations role within a charity or not-for-profit

• Experience as a board secretary or company secretary

• Experience drafting contracts and managing compliance

• Knowledge of CIO governance and Charity Commission requirements

• A proactive, self-starting approach

• Excellent attention to detail and written English

Desirable but not essential

• Experience in the interfaith or multi-religious sector

• CGI qualification (or working towards)

Infrastructure Requirements (BYOD)

RfPUK operates a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) framework where paid staff provide their own personal computer hardware to access our systems. All work is web-based via Google Workspace for Charities and does not require high-specification hardware. The charity provides all system user licenses and funds required antivirus software for work devices, but does not provide or fund personal hardware or domestic utility bills.

What we offer

• Real ownership of a charity's operations

• Direct reporting to the Chair – simple management structure

• Salary £38,000–£42,000

• 25 days annual leave plus public holidays

• Our workplace pension scheme is in line with statutory requirements, with employer contributions (3%).

• Home-based working with a structured core hours framework (9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday)

How to apply

Please send your CV and a cover letter (maximum two pages) 

Closing date: 20 August 2026

Interview Date: 24 August 2026

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Safeguarding statement: RfPUK is committed to safeguarding. 

Equal opportunities: RfPUK is an equal opportunities employer.

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[End of Advert]

Job Title: Head of Communications, Atlantic Institute

Location: Rhodes House in central Oxford, Hybrid Working 2 days per week

Contract: Permanent

Hours: Full-time

Salary: £70,000 - £75,000 per annum

Reports to: Executive Director

We have an exciting opportunity for a Head of Communications to join the Atlantic Institute based at the Rhodes Trust, Oxford. This role will ensure that the work and profile of Fellows and Programs are seen and heard, and that it helps define agendas, inform policy and contribute to systemic change.

The role is a member of the Atlantic Institute's leadership team, contributing to organisational culture and the successful delivery of the Institute's strategic priorities. Strong leadership and people management skills are essential, with the ability to lead, develop and motivate teams, build collaborative relationships and support colleagues through change.

We are looking for the successful candidate to start with us in as soon as possible.

The role

This role will bring cohesion to all Institute communications, providing a clear narrative of impact and influence, and positioning the Atlantic Fellows community as a global space for thought leadership and values-based convening.

Role responsibilities;

• Detail and deliver a cohesive narrative of the Atlantic Fellows community.

• Provide strategic direction for institutional narratives, thought leadership priorities and audience engagement frameworks across the Atlantic Fellows community.

• Provide senior oversight of editorial standards, co-designing with Fellows and Programs a mechanism to determine how work is amplified in line with the strategic direction of the Institute. Ensure that all public-facing and internal content is aligned with the values of the Atlantic Institute, and serves a clear purpose to support the strategic direction.

• Contribute as an active member of the leadership team, shaping organisational strategy, priorities, and decision-making beyond the communications remit.

• Collaborate with the Director of Lifelong Fellowship to support delivery of program priorities for the global Atlantic Fellows community.

• Ensure regular communications to Fellows, Programs staff and Institute staff as well as Atlantic Institute Governing Board, Global Fellows Advisory Group and others are clear, timely and in line with the Institute’s communications protocol. 

• Develop, deliver, evaluate and refresh communications approaches for the Institute in consultation with the Executive Director.

• Lead the development of long-term institutional communications, reputation and stakeholder engagement strategies aligned with the Institute’s strategic priority

• Provide visible, values-led leadership, role modelling collaboration, accountability, and inclusive ways of working across the Institute.

Please see the job description for more responsibilities

Essential skills, experience and qualifications:

• Significant experience leading communications across a diverse audience, including developing, delivering and evaluating communication strategy.

• Experience of building a brand profile and raising visibility of networks in the NGO sector.

• Media relations experience alongside knowledge of effective digital comms strategies and platforms.

• Attention to detail and high standards of communications content

• Experience managing a team, with effective strategies for delegation, motivation and staff development.

Desirable skills and experience:

• Well networked within NGO or charity organisations, with an understanding of the challenges being faced by those advocating for systemic change for equity globally.

• Understanding of the sensitivities of operating as a UK charity in the equity space.

About us

The Atlantic Institute is a partnership programme of the Rhodes Trust and was established in 2016 with the support of The Atlantic Philanthropies. The Atlantic Institute is part of an ecosystem of Atlantic Fellows Programs which was established with a shared mission: to empower catalytic communities of emerging leaders to advance fairer, healthier, more equitable societies.We do this by providing Atlantic Fellows and Atlantic Fellows Program staff with the networks, architecture and resources to connect, learn and act to address the underlying systemic causes of inequity – locally and globally.

Benefits of working with us

• 30 days annual leave (pro rata) plus 8 bank holidays

• Competitive pension scheme

• Generous family leave schemes

• Private health insurance

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Personal development opportunities

• Additional benefits, such as free access to the University's gardens, parks, libraries and museums, and University staff discounts in shops across Oxford.

• Cycle to work scheme

• Electric car scheme

If you would like to find out more, please click ‘apply’ to view the full job description and to find the link to apply. Please send us your CV and a covering letter. Please note, this advert will close on 26 July 2026. Interviews are likely to take place w/c 3 August 2026.

If you have any issues with submitting your application, please email the Recruitment team.

The Rhodes Trust is an equal opportunity employer. We warmly welcome applications from talented people of diverse backgrounds and appoint without regard to age, disability, gender, gender identity, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, parental status, marital or civil partner status, race, colour, ethnic or national origin, nationality, religion or belief.