Chief operations officer jobs

About us

Baby Lifeline is a highly respected national charity whose mission is to ensure the healthiest and best outcomes possible from pregnancy and birth.

Founded over 40 years ago by Judy Ledger following the personal tragedy of losing three premature babies, we have since purchased many million pounds’ worth of equipment for maternity and neonatal units, produced nationally recognised reports and research projects, staged highly successful annual UK maternity safety conferences, and provided ongoing evidence-based, multi-professional training to reduce avoidable harm and death in maternity. Training is provided through Baby Lifeline Training Ltd. It trains around 4,000 delegates annually and is one of the main providers/developers of training for maternity professionals in the UK.

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join Baby Lifeline as Chief Operating Officer.

This dual role will include operational responsibility for Baby Lifeline and Baby Lifeline Training Ltd. Sharing the same building as the charity, the Training company is a not-for-profit social enterprise which operates under a service level agreement and brand licence issued by the charity.

Reporting to the CEO, the Chief Operating Officer will be responsible for directing and controlling all organisational operations in accordance with the strategy and business plans agreed by the CEO and respective Boards of the Charity and Baby Lifeline Training Ltd to ensure that organisational values and objectives are met.  Baby Lifeline’s mission is to make care safer and better for every pregnant woman, pregnant person and newborn baby in the UK with the aim of ensuring that no family will experience the avoidable loss of their precious baby or mother.

Chief Operating Officer Key Responsibilities

• Ensure that all areas operate efficiently, meet compliance and safety standards, and support the overall purpose of the charity.
• Perform a leading role in driving revenue through developing strong relationships with key stakeholders.
• Represent the charity at external events and meetings where required.
• Financial expertise in setting and managing realistic annual income and expenditure budgets is essential.
• Lead and support management and small staff team.
• Co-ordinate and manage policy, procedure, risk management and wider charity administration.
• Work closely with the CEO and Boards to develop and implement the charity’s strategic vision and values

As Chief Operating Officer, you will have:

• A business degree/MBA or equivalent qualification is desirable.
• Extensive experience in a senior management role.
• Strong leadership, influencing and communication skills.
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities.
• Negotiation, conflict resolution and relationship-building skills.
• Robust understanding of financial analysis, management principles and practices.
• Thorough understanding of the charity sector.
• Understanding of business functions i.e. HR, IT, finance etc.
• Experience in strategic business planning

 Benefits: 33 days’ holiday including public holidays, pension, enhanced sick pay

Interested? Click 'Apply Now' to access the Application Pack 

Job Purpose

We are looking for a CEO with a passion for animal welfare, who will contribute to our mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and re-homing animals in need. Our new CEO will want to actively promote kindness and the prevention of cruelty to animals, and be driven by a desire to give those in our care a second chance in finding their forever home.

They will expand our profile across the Blackpool and North Lancashire region, working closely with the trustees to create a robust business plan, and have overall responsibility for the Branch Centre, our shops and the day to day running of the charity 

Role Responsibilities

People

Have overall responsibility for all branch employees, including recruitment, employee development and performance assessment.

Income Generation, Fundraising and Publicity

Lead income generation, actively championing and contributing to fundraising events, whilst introducing new ideas and new activity.

Have overall responsibility for the Branch retail operation, working closely with the managers to ensure that individual shops meet annual sales targets.

Work with the trustees in developing the retail strategy and the growth opportunities of new outlets. 

Digital Media and Marketing

Be responsible for developing the use of digital media to deliver the charity's vision, mission and strategy.

Work with the trustees to develop a marketing strategy, helping our Branch reach more people and generate additional income.

Financial Performance, Governance and Administration

Together with the trustees, develop and implement robust policies, procedures and controls in line with RSPCA guidelines and law, and produce annual budgets and reports for the Branch.

Security, Maintenance and Health and Safety

Ensure the Branch fulfills its duty of care for the health and safety of employees, volunteers and others on site, and have overall responsibility to ensure that the buildings, land and equipment belonging to the Branch are maintained in a safe and secure manner. 

Animal Welfare

In collaboration with the Animal Centre Manager, ensure the Branch delivers on its commitment to care for and ensure the welfare of animals, overseeing compliance with RSPCA standards and policies, relevant legislation and best practice in the provision of animal welfare services.

Person Specification

You have:

• A passion for the care and welfare of animals
• A proven track record of leading and motivating people to deliver the strategic aims of a business/charity
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and also the ability to listen to the opinions of others
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to multi-task
• A desire to design and implement systems and processes, enabling delivery of our overall strategic aims
• A full UK driving licence

You have expertise and experience in:

• Operating at a senior strategic leadership level
• Project management and business planning
• Business development and growth
• Budget management
• Business and financial reporting
• The use of technology and digital media

You are:

• Flexible, with an ability to adapt to different situations and willing to 'get your hands dirty'
• A people person who is approachable and enjoys working with others, communicating effectively to build strong relationships
• Proactive and forward-thinking with an ability to plan ahead 
• Able to prioritise conflicting demands and thrive under pressure
• Committed to the highest levels of integrity and effort

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted after the closing date and Interviews will be held on a day to be confirmed in June.

As a values-driven leader, the CEO will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight to ensure the charity delivers its mission with integrity, compassion, and impact. They will be responsible for leading a small team, managing resources, driving income generation, and ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. As the public face of the organisation, the CEO will represent the charity to stakeholders, funders, and the wider community, building strong relationships to secure support and drive sustainability.

Lead a small team of 10 to fulfil its mission of breaking the cycle of Modern Slavery in Derbyshire and beyond. The care and wellbeing of our staff team is vital to the success of the organisation, and we are looking for a leader who understands and embodies the value of centring care and wellbeing.

This exciting new role is perfect for a candidate who is ready to make the role their own, and a self-starter keen to make an immediate impact, through a combination of:

• Supporting the expansion and transformation of our client advice services by ensuring operational service procedures are established, embedded and monitored.
• Exploring, implementing and enabling office and hybrid-working modernisations, including supporting senior members of the operational team to implement business innovations around hybrid-working software, HR systems, and integration of technology (possibly including AI) into our work.
• Alleviating administrative burdens so far as possible on our team delivering advice to clients, helping us to make an even greater impact on our community.
• Contributing to the design and development of robust policies that relate to office and outreach coordination, HR support and budgeting.
• Supporting our supervisory team in their management of people and relevant office administration duties.
• Maintaining and developing office resources, including our office manual, IT equipment, and shared online and offline documents.
• Supporting the trustee board and senior members of the leadership team in the delivery of their strategic goals and day-to-day administration.

PINF is the first charity in the UK that exists to support high-quality journalism. We exist at the cutting edge of charity law and need an experienced charity professional to make sure we do things properly. 

As Head of Operations & Governance, you will be responsible for overseeing the back-office operations of the charity. You will be a key point of contact for the team and support the Executive Director to ensure smooth, efficient and compliant operations.

You will be a senior member of the team, responsible for ensuring that PINF operates within its legal and regulatory framework, including in relation to charity, corporate, tax, employment and data protection regulations. The role involves liaising with the Chair, Board of Trustees, Executive Director, legal advisors and regulators to support best practice in financial management, governance, risk management and compliance.  

Duties and responsibilities 

• Financial Management 

• Ensure consistent delivery and quality of finance operations, including transactions processing, which will involve managing a bookkeeping service.

• Prepare and monitor annual budgets, management accounts and project budgets.

• Lead on the financial aspects of fundraising, contract management, and funder reporting. Including managing restricted and unrestricted funding. 

• Oversee the process of preparing statutory accounts, including liaising with accountants and auditors.

• Maintain internal controls and policies to protect assets, prevent fraud, and ensure business continuity. 

• Participate in the Finance & Fundraising Committee and support the Treasurer to plan and deliver meetings. 

• Prepare financial reports for board meetings and engage in board discussions.

• Governance 

• Manage our annual governance cycle, working closely with the Chair, Treasurer and Executive Director to ensure legal compliance and to plan and prepare for Board meetings including taking appropriate minutes.

• Manage the organisational risk framework including identifying emerging risks and working with the Executive Director to mitigate them.

• Companies House and Charity Commission filings.

• Develop and maintain a suite of policy to ensure PINF meets its obligations as a charity and an employer.

• Play an active part in board discussion to support good decision making.

• HR 

• Manage HR across the organisation; ensuring all HR processes and policies are fit for purpose, up to date and adhere to law, and are understood and implemented across the organisation.

• Manage recruitment processes for all staff.

• Manage the annual leave tracker. 

• Operations and administration 

• Ensure the smooth running of the organisation by leading operational planning and monitoring progress.

• Lead on relationships and contracts with external suppliers and contractors.

• Ensure PINF has appropriate insurance cover. 

• Occasional support with charitable activities (meetings, events, publications, etc.) 

Requirements  

• A professional qualification in finance, management, law, or a related field and at least five years’ experience relevant to this role.

• Deep understanding of good governance and best practice in the charity sector.

• Understanding of relevant laws relating to employment, data protection and running a charity. 

• Sympathy to the aims and objectives of PINF. 

• Full professional proficiency in English. 

• Right to work in the UK. 

Skills and attributes 

• Experience of managing charity finances and budgets (Essential). A related finance or accountancy qualification would be desirable. 

• Experience of managing operations in a comparable charity or business, with both strategic and day-to-day operational responsibilities. 

• Developing HR processes and policies and taking the lead in implementing these across an organisation. 

• Developing processes and procedures and making improvements for efficiency and impact. 

• Experience of working closely with trustees, non-executives or senior leadership teams.

• Strong oral and written communications skills, including having the confidence to use your expertise to provide feedback and constructive challenge to senior leaders.

• Excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to work remotely and independently and to collaborate with others. 

• Enjoy being the key point of contact and support in a small, remote team. 

• Ability to stay on top of your workload by using relevant software (including Microsoft Office and finance software such as Xero), keeping accurate and up-to-date records, and prioritising between competing tasks. 

Please apply using Charity Job. Once you click apply you will be prompted to upload your CV and answer an application question in up to 5000 characters: What do you see as the main challenges facing PINF as a small but ambitious charity, and how will you use your experience to address them as Head of Operations & Governance? 

Sepsis Research, FEAT is a dynamic and ambitious charity dedicated to combating sepsis through awareness, innovative research, and community support. Founded in 2013 by a sepsis survivor, Sepsis Research FEAT is dedicated to combating sepsis through awareness, innovative research, and community support. The charity funds world-leading research to improve sepsis outcomes, runs public awareness campaigns, and engages with patients, carers, and healthcare professionals. Recent achievements include identifying top research priorities with the James Lind Alliance and delivering educational initiatives across the UK. Their vision is to #stopsepsisnow and make significant strides against this 'hidden killer'. We are currently seeking a visionary and strategic leader to join our team as CEO (Freelance), with the goal of scaling our operations and increasing our annual turnover from £300k to £1M by 2030.

Key Responsibilities:

· Advocacy and Representation: Act as the public face of the charity, representing its interests at events, in the media, and with policymakers.

· Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a comprehensive growth strategy to achieve the charity's financial goals.

· Fundraising and Development: Lead fundraising initiatives, including donor engagement, grant applications, and corporate partnerships.

· Financial Management: Oversee the charity's financial health, ensuring effective budgeting, financial planning, and reporting.

· Team Management: Inspire, mentor, and manage a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, fostering a positive and productive work environment.

· Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, and the community.

· Operational Oversight: Ensure the efficient and effective operation of the charity, including program delivery, compliance, and risk management.

Qualifications and Experience:

· Proven experience in a senior leadership role, preferably within the non-profit sector.

· Demonstrated success in fundraising and revenue generation.

· Strong financial acumen and experience in financial management.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

· Ability to think strategically and drive organizational growth.

· Passion for the charity's mission and values.

Personal Attributes:

· Visionary and strategic thinker

· Inspirational and motivational leader

· Strong ethical standards and integrity

· Collaborative and team-oriented

· Resilient and adaptable

Location: Pembroke Dock and Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire with home working and travel as required.

Hours: 37 hrs per week

Salary: £44,000 - £50,000 depending on experience and skills

Relocation costs:  up to £5,000

Hybrid working home and office working as required

Organisation size: currently 25 paid staff and 9 volunteers

Description

Do you enjoy helping people? Do you want to be part of a service that makes an impact on people’s lives?

Citizens Advice Pembrokeshire (CAP) are seeking a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the charity into the future following the retirement of our current CEO.

We are looking for an ambitious and talented candidate, to provide leadership, strategic vision, direction, and overall management to maximise delivery services and charitable aims and objectives

You will have a knowledge and understanding of the charity sector and knowledge, of the policy, and multi-agency environment in which the advice sector operates. You will have the ability to influence external change and to earn and maintain the trust of those people involved, especially funding bodies and key partner organisations.

You will also come with extensive experience of financial management and budgetary control, and a proven ability to generate income through fundraising and commissioning activities.

Our passionate team makes a real difference to people’s lives, providing essential advice on debt, housing, employment, benefits, and more. In 2024 alone, we helped 4,000 people with over 20,000 issues. Beyond empowering individuals, we also challenge unfair policies, and drive change through our research and campaigns work.

Please visit our site and look for Jobs and volunteering section for more information.

If you would like to apply for this position, please send your CV, covering letter and Monitoring Form to the email address on our website. 

The deadline for applications is Monday 31st May 2025 at 5pm. Interviews will take place in July.

Costs for attending interviews will be reimbursed.

Inter Mediate is a London-based peace-making charity supporting confidential negotiations in some of the world’s most challenging conflicts. Reporting to the Head of Finance, working closely with the Operations Director, and in close coordination with staff across IM, the key tasks of this role are to:

• Take a proactive and principal role in supporting Inter Mediate’s financial compliance;
• Support Inter Mediate to fulfil its accountability to funders;
• Take an active role in supporting and guiding the projects teams in efficient budget tracking and monitoring;
• Take a proactive and principal role in supporting the Operations Director with various aspects of operations management for best practice and compliance;
• Take an active role in supporting secure and compliant IT operations;
• Provide other general support when required for the smooth running of the organisation.

Specific responsibilities

Finance

Working with the Head of Finance as required:

• Record and process a range of financial transactions accurately and efficiently to deadline in Sage 50 software (often in multiple currencies). Maintain financial records ensuring accuracy to facilitate internal and external audit processes;
• Take the lead in compiling, tracking and monitoring project budgets in close collaboration with operations and project teams;
• Track project and core expenditure and support in preparation of accurate, compliant and timely financial reports to funders to satisfy reporting requirements;
• Help to compile and monitor project budgets, log activities and record/prepare relevant material for grant audits;
• Implement and maintain financial policies and procedures;
• Manage book-keeping function by recording invoices, ensuring that they are promptly  authorised in line with agreed financial procedures and paid on time;
• Manage complex cash and credit card expenses by collating and recording in multiple currencies; and taking charge of banking, petty & foreign cash accounts;
• Take the lead on initiatives to research, introduce and implement appropriate finance software to make the finance function more efficient;
• Be prepared to play an active role as IM brings management accounting in-house
• Support Inter Mediate with company and grant audits.

Operations

Working with the Operations Director as required:

• Assist with researching and implementing operations systems, policies and procedures (as requested by the Operations Director;
• Assist with timesheets, and absence reporting management;
• Collaborate with operations and project teams in complying with donor requirements;
• Undertake special projects such as aspects of the salary and benefits benchmarking exercise;
• Assist with smooth running of the office and maintenance of office systems and equipment, including stationery orders, overseeing subscriptions and shredding.

General

• Assist with organising meetings and events, including travel logistics, and providing other general support when required.

Job Title: Operations Manager

Responsible to: Chief Executive

Location: Office based in Aylesbury

Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 FTE per annum (pro rata for part time)

Hours: 28 – 36 hrs pw

Contract: 12-month FTC (maternity cover)

BucksVision is the leading charity supporting people affected by sight and hearing loss in Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes through a wide range of tailored services and support. We are proud of the wide range of services delivered by our small, dedicated team and fantastic volunteers.

If you thrive where you have clarity of purpose, produce your best work when working in a supportive, collaborative environment and are motivated by seeing how your contribution makes a positive impact on the lives of people affected by sight and hearing loss, you could be just who we are looking for!!

We currently have an exciting opportunity for an Operations Manager to join our successful and experienced team on a fixed term contract providing maternity cover between July/August 2025 and July/August 2026.

Why is this role so critical to us?

The Operations Manager leads all BucksVision’s operational activities, including service delivery, financial processing and communications.

Have no doubts, this is a role with significant impact.

Together, with having your own clear accountabilities, you will collaborate and partner with Chief Executive to ensure that BucksVision’s services continue to be effective in delivering the charity’s aims and objectives.

Your Responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

• Member of BucksVision’s Senior Management Team (along with the Chief Executive).
• Through collaboration with the Chief Executive, and the Trustee Board, ensure all BucksVision’s services are managed and are performing to expected high standards in support of our customers.
• Be the operational lead for BucksVision, managing service delivery, office administration, internal and external communications, and financial processing.
• Day-to-day management of the office and administrative duties ensuring efficient and effective processes are in place whilst inquisitive to seek out and implement areas for continuous improvement.
• Deliver strong line management responsibilities to one Administrator and deputise for the Chief Executive in their absence.
• Responsible for the management of BucksVision’s CRM system (Beacon)
• Manage the financial administration and processing of the charity, including invoicing, payments and payroll, and work with the financial auditors to ensure information is accurate and provided in a timely manner during the audit of annual accounts.
• Manage all internal and external communications to staff and stakeholders, including marketing and publicity materials such as BucksVision’s quarterly newsletter, website and social media.
• Proactively work with local organisations and partners to raise awareness of BucksVision’s services, through presentations, community events and other profile-raising activities.
• Responsible for dealing with customer queries, resolving these in a timely and effective manner, with excellent standards of customer service.
• Responsible for monitoring and reviewing operational activities, ensuring the services deliver results as planned.
• Provide operational support to the Chief Executive and Board of Trustees.

You will spark our interest by being:

• A good “all-rounder”, love the detail, obsessed with accuracy with broad operational and administrative experience.
• An experienced service delivery, project or operations manager ideally with experience in a charity or community sector organisation.
• Confident managing a diverse, and wide range, of administrative and operational tasks. No two days are the same!
• Able to coordinate several projects simultaneously, with a focus on ensuring customers receive a good service at all times.
• Able to demonstrate experience of monitoring, evaluating, and improving services for a charity, social enterprise or voluntary organisation.
• Comfortable working in a small charity with an open and friendly culture.
• Proficient user of Office 365 and CRM systems.

If our purpose excites you, you feel you have the skills required to excel in this role and want to join our team, we would love to receive an application from you!

We understand the requirements of job advertisements can, on occasions, appear a bit daunting. Please don’t be deterred from applying if you feel you don’t quite meet them all. Training and development will be provided to support your success.

Please apply with a copy of your CV and a covering letter explaining why you feel you are a good match for the role. Please note, applications received with no covering letter will not be considered.

The successful candidate must be freely eligible to work in the UK, as we are unable to accommodate sponsorship.

BucksVision is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and building a diverse community. We welcome applications from eligible candidates regardless of any protected characteristics.

Birmingham Cathedral is a beautiful building with a wonderful community of worshippers, volunteers and staff. We are inspired by a strong sense of social justice, a passion for supporting those who are marginalised within the city and a commitment to celebrating all that is wonderful in our diverse city and diocese. We strive for our Cathedral to be fully representative of the richly diverse communities we serve, and have an unwavering desire to share God’s love, and the good news of Jesus Christ in a spirit of service.

Birmingham Cathedral demonstrates daily its attraction as a house of prayer to the people of the city and its international visitors. Alongside daily worship, enriched by the Anglican choral tradition, the Cathedral hosts diocesan, regional and national events and is responsive to immediate community needs for celebration and lament. With growing confidence and newly refurbished Burne-Jones windows, the Cathedral has a clear vision and strategy. The Cathedral’s strategic plan focusses on three priorities: Pray, Serve and Grow and gives Birmingham Cathedral a clear sense of purpose and direction.

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is the senior lay officer in the Cathedral and has the responsibility for managing the business functions of the Cathedral and monitoring operational performance.

As COO. you will be pivotal to the delivery of the Cathedral’s vision and strategy and the development of business and operational plans to ensure delivery of the Cathedral’s strategic outcomes. You will work with the Dean and the Senior Management Team to develop and implement strategy and policy, ensuring good governance, the effective and professional administration of the Cathedral in compliance with all policies and procedures and relevant statutory legislation.

The Cathedral Chapter (our Trustee Board) is looking for a collaborative colleague who will enhance the Cathedral’s caring culture, working closely with the staff team, volunteers and the wider cathedral community. Chapter’s strategic priorities include working towards financial sustainability; reviewing the operating model of the Cathedral and managing change; working towards environmental sustainability; creating partnerships to support the Cathedral’s work with the vulnerable and marginalised and ensuring effective safeguarding.

This is an exciting new role for hte Trust as it seeks to uplift and empower the people of Evesham in Worcestershire.

The Trust has secured funding for a new COO who will support, encourage, lead and develop the Trust into our next chapter.

We are an established Community Centre with a brilliant, dedicated and highly motivated small staff team with lots of volunteers.  We have a wide range of commumity centre users, and estblished partnerships and networks.  The Trustee body have recently set a new Vision and Priiorites process; and we are working with a community research body and fundraising strategy.  Our new COO will work to support and develop all this towards a sustainable future.

Part of this new role will be to support one of our key projects become an independent charity in their own right; and to work on the vision for social housing/supported housing locally with linked buildings in the HIgh Street.

Further information is in the Job Pack.

The position of CEO is an exciting and challenging role that is primarily external facing in order to promote and further develop the essential support we provide to families in need throughout Camden and Islington.

A key aspect is to continue growing our network of stakeholders, partners, corporate sponsors, commissioners and donors. The CEO will also be expected to lead the drive to secure new income streams, and maintain existing relationships with key funders and stakeholders.

The CEO works with the Board of Trustees to drive the future strategy, ensure fulfilment of the implementation plan and direct a staff team comprising a Head of Delivery, 3 Family Liaison Managers, An Operations Manager, a Community Projects Manager, a Bookkeeper, and a Fundraising Consultant.

There is considerable scope for the post-holder to make a real difference and significantly further raise our profile within the community that we serve, building on our track record of excellence and impact as one of the leading organisations affecting social change in the local area.

Core Responsibilities

· Support the team in identifying funders and income generation opportunities

· Build networks with new and existing funders to engage their support

· Represent and participate at external events and meetings to promote HSC&I

· Actively contribute to expanding the role and influence of Home-Start London consortium in the wider London area

· Be accountable for the management of resources to enable us to actively support a minimum of 90 to 120 families at any one time

· Provide leadership and oversight to colleagues and volunteers to ensure the correct outcomes for families through training, governance and quality assurance

· Performance and line management of Head of Delivery, Funding and Projects Manager and Bookkeeper

· Annual budget setting in conjunction with the Treasurer, and ongoing monitoring and reporting of financial position

· Provide management reports to the Trustee Board on progress against key performance measures

· Ensure that we remain compliant with all legislative and policy changes that impact the charity and our processes

· Understand the impact of legislative, changing political, economic and social climate on our work, and share this knowledge within the team to ensure compliance

Personal Specification / Attributes

The successful candidate will be an experienced Senior Manager/Chief Executive with a demonstrable track record of successfully running an organisation or team leadership. You will possess strong strategic management, governance and people skills in addition to being solution focussed. Excellent stakeholder management skills are essential as is the ability to generate income from a range of sources.

Essential knowledge and skills

· Three years experience as a Senior Manager / Chief Executive

· Ability to prioritise and manage a varied workload, working to tight deadlines

· Demonstrable success in raising significant income from a variety of external sources

· Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills

· Accomplished at providing motivational and influential leadership

· Proven track record of successfully delivering change

· Good understanding of financial accounting and budgeting in the charity sector

· Strategic and innovative thinking

· Understanding, interpreting and presenting Management Information and data

· Previous experience of working with organisations in social services or health, with an understanding of the public sector commissioning process

· Good working knowledge of MS Office suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint)

Preferred experience but not essential

· Experience of working in the voluntary sector

· A background in health and wellbeing

· Safeguarding children and working with families

· Understanding and interest in perinatal mental health, isolation, early years’ development and recovery through crisis.

· Using Charitylog or other CRM platforms

· Presentations and public speaking

Affiliation

Home-Start Camden & Islington is affiliated to the national organisation Home-Start UK, but we are autonomous and responsible for own management and securing our own funding. Home-Start UK provides support and advice to over 300 Home-Start schemes around the UK, and manages a stringent Quality Assurance Review process to ensure schemes operate effectively.

Notes

· The CEO will benefit from supported career progression, including mentorship if appropriate.

· Home-Start Camden & Islington offers a staff pension contribution.

· The post holder would be expected to attend evening and weekend meetings whenever necessary, and agreed Time of in Lieu (TOIL) is available for this work.

· Applications from people who reflect the community we support are most welcome

· The post holder will need to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS)

Role Purpose

The Operations Director is a critical leadership role responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective running of all operational aspects of Katherine Low Settlement. This role oversees the day-to-day operational leadership of the charity, ensuring that its systems, processes, and teams are aligned with strategic objectives and compliant with relevant legislation.

This position will lead on programme delivery, financial management, human resources, IT infrastructure, risk and compliance, governance, and facilities management, ensuring that the organisation operates smoothly and sustainably. The post-holder will act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), embedding a strong safeguarding culture across the organisation, and also be responsible for policy development and culture and wellbeing. 

As a key member of the senior leadership team, the Operations Director will work closely with the CEO, Board of Trustees, funders, partners, and staff to drive organisational effectiveness and ensure that the charity can continue delivering high-impact work.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Organisational Strategy

• Provide strategic leadership for all operational functions, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s mission and strategic objectives.
• Develop and implement efficient systems, processes, and policies to improve operational effectiveness.
• Work closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees to ensure that the charity is resilient, agile, and positioned for sustainable growth.
• Oversee cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring that operations support and enhance programme delivery.
• Lead on operational planning, resource allocation, and impact measurement.

Programme Delivery & Impact

• Ensure all programmes and services are effectively designed, resourced, and evaluated to achieve the best outcomes.
• Lead on the development of monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) frameworks to track programme impact and efficiency.
• Work with programme teams to ensure services are inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the needs of beneficiaries.
• Identify and mitigate operational risks that could affect programme delivery.

Financial & Resource Management

• Oversee financial planning, budgeting, and management in partnership with the Finance Team and CEO.
• Ensure financial policies, processes, and controls are in place and adhered to.
• Work with the fundraising team to ensure grant and contract funding is effectively managed and reported.
• Ensure long-term financial sustainability through effective resource allocation and cost efficiency.
• Support the development of business models, funding strategies, and income diversification.

Safeguarding & Risk Management - Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

• As the Designated Safeguarding Lead (a role delegated by the Chief Executive), ensure robust safeguarding policies, procedures, and practices are in place.
• Provide training and guidance to staff on safeguarding responsibilities and best practices.
• Oversee the Deputy Safeguarding Leads, acting as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns from them, ensuring they are appropriately reported and addressed.
• Embed a strong safeguarding culture, ensuring that all programmes and services prioritise the safety and wellbeing of beneficiaries.

Human Resources, People Management & Wellbeing

• Lead the HR function, ensuring best practices in recruitment, retention, staff development, and performance management.
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), embedding a culture of fairness and opportunity for all.
• Develop and implement HR policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with employment law and best practice.
• Promote staff wellbeing, fostering a positive and supportive working environment.
• Line manage operational staff, providing leadership, mentoring, and professional development opportunities.

IT Infrastructure, Systems & Data Management

• Oversee the organisation’s IT strategy, ensuring systems and processes are secure, efficient, and fit for purpose.
• Lead on the implementation and management of Salesforce (or another complex CRM system), ensuring data integrity and effective reporting.
• Ensure cybersecurity, data protection, and GDPR compliance, embedding best practices across the organisation.
• Identify and implement digital solutions to enhance operational effectiveness.

Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and ethical standards, including charity governance, employment law, and safeguarding.
• Work closely with the Board of Trustees, providing reports and operational insights to support decision-making.
• Develop and maintain an effective risk management framework, ensuring risks are identified, assessed, and mitigated.
• Oversee all policy development, ensuring policies are up to date, legally compliant, and well-embedded across the organisation.

Facilities & Office Management

• Oversee the management of charity premises, assets, and office operations.
• Ensure facilities are safe, secure, and compliant with health and safety regulations.
• Lead on business continuity planning and disaster recovery strategies.

Person Specification

Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven experience in a senior operational leadership role, ideally within the charity or non-profit sector.
• Strong understanding of programme management, financial oversight, HR, IT, and governance.
• Demonstrable experience of managing budgets using complex Excel spreadsheets.
• Experience with Salesforce or another complex CRM system, including implementation, reporting, and data management.
• Demonstrable experience in people management, of multi-level and departmental teams, with the ability to lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding best practices, with experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead
• Strong policy development and implementation skills, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.
• Experience in culture and wellbeing initiatives, fostering a positive workplace environment.
• Experience working with Boards of Trustees and governance structures.
• Excellent risk management, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with proven experience of building relationships with funders, partners, and regulatory bodies.

Desirable Experience & Skills

• Experience in charity fundraising operations.
• Knowledge of GDPR, data protection, and cybersecurity best practices.
• Understanding of health and safety, facilities management.

Personal Attributes

• A strategic thinker who can balance day-to-day operations with long-term vision.
• A collaborative leader who values teamwork and inclusivity.
• A proactive problem solver, able to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• A strong commitment to the values and mission of the Katherine Low Settlement.

Further Information 

·Katherine Low Settlement is committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

·All offers to work at Katherine Low Settlement are subject to satisfactory references, which is standard KLS policy applicable to all roles. KLS also ask for an enhanced DBS (formerly known as CRB) check 

·You will adhere to matters of confidentiality concerning this role and the KLS team

The above job description reflects the position at the time of writing; it is not intended to be a task list but indicates the general level of work involved. It is expected that duties will be reviewed and revised as required.

Our client are an independent charity based in East Lancashire and member of a national network. They provide free, confidential and impartial advice to everyone to help solve their problems and improve their lives – from consumer issues to problems at work and from benefit applications to debt relief and homelessness.

The charity's goal is to give people the knowledge and the confidence they need to find their way forward - whoever they are, and whatever their problem.

Chief Executive Officer
£60-65,000 per annum
Hybrid with a minimum of 3 days in the office
East Lancashire based in one of the 4 offices: Pendle, Rossendale, Burnley or Hyndburn

Our client are an ambitious charity providing essential services within their community, and this is an exciting time to join the organisation as their new Chief Executive. The scope of their work and demand for their services has grown considerably, answering the needs they have seen within their community.

After recently merging local branches, the new CEO will play a vital role in supporting staff and shaping the future, providing vision and strategic direction for the charity.

Working closely with the Board, you’ll be leading the development of the charity's services in line with need whilst also increasing their profile, acting as an ambassador for the organisation and cultivating positive relationships across a diverse range of stakeholders to ensure the profile and impact of the charity and its services. Effectively engaging staff, volunteers and external stakeholders, while continuing to secure new funding streams will be key to your success. You will be a natural advocate and champion for equality, diversity and inclusion for our clients, staff and volunteers.

The successful candidate will bring:

• Proven senior leadership experience and a passion for leading and enabling teams to thrive and develop.
• Experience of running and improving high-quality, value and volume client-facing services at a senior level in a multi-stakeholder environment.
• Excellent financial and business acumen with a track record of successful business development, income generation and income diversification.
• Comprehensive strategic business planning experience and ability to deliver on key targets both strategically and operationally.
• Strong relationship-building, networking and influencing of external stakeholders.

If you have the ability, drive and experience to manage this highly valued organisation, and have the strategic leadership skills to take it to the next stage, we would love to hear from you.

Our client values diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination wherever they see it. They are committed to diversifying the background of our workforce and welcome applications regardless of sex, gender, race, age, sexuality, belief or disability.

For further information, please view the Application Pack below. To apply for this role, please click 'Redirect to Recruiter'.

Deadline for applications: 4th May
Preliminary Interview with Prospectus: w/c 12th May
Panel Interviews with the Charity: 1st stage – Thursday 29th May

These dates may be subject to change and applicants will be advised in advance should this happen.