Communication manager jobs in Birmingham, west midlands

Join the National Institute of Teaching as Deputy Head of ECF Faculty and help shape high-quality, evidence-informed professional development that strengthens teacher and leader development across the education system. This is a strategic leadership opportunity for an experienced education professional to drive programme quality, build influential sector partnerships, and make a lasting impact on teaching and learning nationwide.

About Us

The National Institute of Teaching (NIoT) has an unswerving commitment to high-quality, evidence-informed teacher education, and is on a mission to generate and synthesize research on professional development to improve the quality of teacher and leader development at NIoT and across the system.

About the Role  

The Deputy Head of ECF Faculty plays a key role in helping NIoT deliver high-quality, evidence-informed professional development programmes. Working closely with the Head of ECF Faculty, this role supports the design, implementation and continuous improvement of programmes, ensures research and sector insight shape delivery, and builds strong relationships with partners across the education sector. The role also helps maintain quality standards, supports recruitment and retention, and contributes to consistent, excellent delivery that advances NIoT’s mission to improve teacher and leader development.

Key Benefits:

• Highly competitive pay and pay progression opportunities.

• Flexible start and end working times.

• Flexible working opportunities, with significant scope for hybrid working.

• At least 27 days’ holiday a year (plus 8 bank holidays) rising to 33 days after five years’ service (with an annual discretionary office shutdown between Christmas and New Year).

• Entry to the highly valued Local Government Pension Scheme.

• Excellent opportunities to develop your skills and experience and to progress your career.

• A stimulating, supportive and rewarding working environment with a dedicated team of likeminded professionals.

If you have any queries about this role, please email our recruitment team.

For more information and to apply, please visit our vacancies page.

Closing date: 22 May 2026.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications.

As a condition of employment this post requires a satisfactory enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) with a Children’s Barred List Check and an Occupational Health Check.

Role Overview:
The Talent Set are delighted to partner with the client on a fantastic Philanthropy Manager role. This position involves leading high-value donor strategies and stewardship programmes to support long-term income growth for a health-focused charity. The role offers an exciting opportunity to work on impactful projects within a collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and cultivate a portfolio of major donors, securing multi-year, five-figure gifts.
• Research and identify new high-net-worth prospects using internal and external data sources.
• Develop tailored cultivation and stewardship plans, ensuring timely reporting and engagement.
• Collaborate with senior staff, Trustees, and volunteers to support donor approaches and network expansion.
• Work with internal teams to align projects with donor interests and prepare compelling proposals.
• Support the organisation’s stewardship and events programme, focusing on relationship building.
• Contribute to the development of new fundraising products for major donors.

Person Specification:

• Extensive experience of fundraising from high-net-worth individuals.
• Proven ability to secure significant gifts in a donor relationship management context.
• Skilled in motivating and inspiring stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong network-building experience both internally and externally.
• Experience in designing impactful stewardship programmes and managing high-value events.
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to influence and negotiate.
• Excellent time-management, organisational, and database skills.
• Knowledge of philanthropy, legal, ethical, and financial considerations related to major giving.
• Ability to work flexibly, manage conflicting priorities, and thrive within a collaborative team environment.
• An interest in medical research or healthcare is an advantage.

What’s on Offer:

• Salary: £40,000 (pro-rata) plus London Weighting of £3,000 or Home Allowance of £450 per annum depending on location
• Location: London or remote
• Contract: 9 month FTC

How to Apply:
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity:
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

Combine your financial expertise with real-world impact by joining Parkinson’s Europe (PE) as our Senior Finance Manager. We’re seeking a proactive professional with heart and passion to safeguard our financial health and empower the Parkinson’s community across Europe, offering a role with significant autonomy and clear room for professional growth within our evolving organisation.

Job specification

Location: Remote working (but note that occasional travel – to attend quarterly team meetings in the UK and other ad hoc meetings/conferences – is required)

Salary: £17,200 – £20,000 per annum, dependent on experience (£43,000 – £50,000 FTE).

Annual leave: 13.5 days per annum (inclusive of pro-rata statutory bank holidays, based on a full-time equivalent of 25 days). 

Contract: This is a permanent, employed role

Responsible to: Director General

Collaboration with: Operations Director and Partnerships Director, plus the wider team

Job description

Main purpose of role

To oversee the charity’s financial management, ensuring accurate reporting, effective budgeting and robust controls. The Senior Finance Manager provides insight to support strategic decision-making, maintains compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements, and manages day-to-day finance operations to safeguard the organisation’s financial health.

In addition, as part of a small team, the Senior Finance Manager provides light-touch HR support to assist with processes – such as appraisals, payroll and staff records — helping to ensure smooth operations in the absence of a dedicated HR function.

Key tasks – finance

• Ensure accurate recording of information of various funding (industry, donations, memberships etc), spending, banking 

• Manual bookkeeping and liaising with Accountants in the UK and in Belgium to ensure data is uploaded correctly to Sage (or similar software) 

• Monthly month end checks on Sage and accurate nominal coding, working with PE’s appointed accountants 

• Raise invoices and credit control

• Accounts payable & expenses process including employee and freelance pay

• Managing all aspects regarding employee pay – working with PE’s appointed payroll agent, pension provider and insurance broker

• Year-end work – including checks and liaising with PE’s appointed accountants

• Charity Commission – completion of annual return

• Donations – check and manage paypal and other donation platforms accordingly

• Management of all PE bank accounts and all aspects regarding bank matters – i.e unknown payments, bank applications for new card holders, transaction queries etc

• Financial reviews with Director General and Operations Director, and to provide accurate information in regards to forecasting, funding, spending, general P&L and other financial matters

• Perform monthly cash-flow forecasting to ensure the 4-month reserve policy is maintained at all times

• Annual budgeting

• Liaising with Treasurer, dealing with any queries he/she may have; assist with AGM reporting 

• Join Board/AGM meetings as required, and deal with any finance-related queries the Board members may have

• Keeping abreast of UK national regulatory and budgetary developments

Key tasks – HR and other

• Support and liaise with the Operations Director and Partnerships Director with all treatment industry/funding agreements 

• Maintain the organisation’s Contract Register, ensuring all agreements (i.e., treatment iindustry partnerships) are tracked for payment milestones

• Keeping and maintaining employee/freelance agreements up to date 

• Holiday and sickness tracking

• Liaise and support the Operations Director with regards to various policies (i.e expenses, bereavement)

• Supporting the Director General and Operations Director with the appraisal process

Person specification

Essential skills and experience

• Minimum five years’ professional experience in an accounting or finance role, supported by a relevant accounting qualification or significant demonstrable experience. Prior experience within the charity or not-for-profit sector is highly desirable. Experience or comfort managing cross-border EU-UK financial complexities is a plus.

• Experience of preparing management accounts, budgets, forecasts and year-end reporting

• An understanding of charity finance requirements (e.g. charity accounting, Charity Commission obligations)

• Proficiency in accounting software (Sage or similar) and MS Office (especially Excel) 

• Experience of basic HR processes (e.g. recruitment, contracts, record-keeping, employee/er taxes and pension obligations)

• Understanding of payroll administration 

• Ability to interpret and explain financial information to non-finance colleagues and Board directors

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities

• High level of accuracy, attention to detail and integrity

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative approach

Personal qualities

• Commitment to the values and mission of the charity

• A proactive, hands-on approach suited to a small organisation

• Ability to work independently and take initiative

• Flexibility and willingness to adapt to changing needs

• Discretion and respect for confidentiality

Application process 

To apply for this role, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability via the CharityJob portal. The deadline is officially 27 May; however, please note that applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and we reserve the right to begin the interview process or close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is found. Therefore, early applications are strongly encouraged.

Parkinson's Europe is an inclusive employer committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. We use an anonymous recruitment process to prevent unconscious bias, and welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of age, disability, gender identity or expression, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. We believe that a diverse team enriches our work and strengthens our ability to serve the entire Parkinson's community across Europe. Please let us know if you have any accessibility requirements we can provide to support you during the application process. 

We are Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking.

We want to create a nation where walking is the natural choice for everyday, local journeys; free from congested roads and pollution, reducing the risk of preventable illnesses and social isolation. We want to achieve a better walking environment and to inspire people of all generations to walk and wheel more.

As we approach our centenary in 2029, this is a pivotal moment for Living Streets. We’re expanding our influence and shaping the future of transport, health, and planning policy across the UK—and we’re looking for a Public Affairs and Policy Manager to help lead that work.

This is a new and high-impact role. You’ll design and deliver an ambitious advocacy strategy aligned to our organisational goals, strengthen our stakeholder relationships and play a central role in influencing government policy. From devolution to public health and urban planning, your work will help drive meaningful, lasting change.

In this role, you will:

·Develop and deliver a compelling public affairs and advocacy strategy.

·Build and manage relationships with key political and sector stakeholders.

·Lead influencing activity across Westminster, devolved governments, and local decision-makers.

·Oversee the development of policy on transport, health and planning.

·Align policy and campaigns to maximise impact.

We’re looking for someone with strong public affairs experience, sound political judgement, and a track record of influencing change. You’ll be proactive, strategic, and comfortable working in a fast-moving environment.

If you’re ready to use your skills to shape policy and create healthier, more walkable communities, we’d love to hear from you.

Living Streets is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk; and expects all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants may be subject to background and criminal record checks as relevant to the job role.

Location: UK Homebased and located in nations or regions outside London

Closing date: 31 May 2026 midnight

Interview date: w/c 8 June 2026

PLEASE NOTE: We can only consider applications from candidates who currently have the right to work in the UK. 

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a sufficient number of applications. We therefore encourage interested candidates to submit their application as early as possible.

Looking for a fundraising role where the income you raise directly moves the dial on mental health outcomes - and helps people access support when they need it most?

This could be the one. Chasing the Stigma is a national mental health charity on a mission to normalise and humanise mental health and they're looking for their first ever Fundraising Manager.

You'll find this a unique opportunity to own and grow an emerging fundraising function and shape it into something extra special.

Salary: £32-36k
Contract: Permanent, full-time 35 hours per week or reduced hours considered
Location: Homebased, or hybrid between home and Liverpool office (located 10 minutes' walk from Crosby Beach). If homebased, expect quarterly visit to the office.
Benefits: 28 days annual leave (+bank), Christmas closure and your birthday, pension scheme.
Culture: Flexible, collaborative, supportive

About Chasing the Stigma

Chasing the Stigma exists to make sure everyone in the UK can find mental health support, whenever they need it. With lived experience at the heart of everything they do, their work spans awareness campaigns, training, policy influence and the UK's largest directory of community mental health services, the Hub of Hope.

Following organic growth, they are now ready to take fundraising to the next level - and this is where you come in!

About the role

As Fundraising Manager, you will support the development and lead on the delivery of a new and ambitious fundraising strategy across individual giving, community fundraising and corporate partnerships.

You will be trusted to spot opportunities, test ideas and build sustainable income streams that support life-changing and life-saving work.

This is a hands-on, varied role where you will combine strategic thinking with practical delivery. You will work closely with colleagues to build a clear case for support, bring the charity's impact to life through powerful storytelling and build meaningful relationships with supporters and partners across the UK.

There is real potential to build a fundraising team as income grows, if this matters to you.

Who we are looking for

You might already be a Fundraising Manager, or you could be ready to step up from a fundraising role. Either way, you'll be able to showcase:

• Track record of generating income through fundraising or business development
• Confidence with high-value corporate or individual fundraising, working at five-figures
• Strong communication and storytelling skills
• Proactive, ideas-led approach and enjoy taking ownership
• Genuine passion for shifting the dial on mental health

You don't need to be the finished article in every area - if you're a fundraiser with passion, creativity and drive, we would love to hear from you.

We would particularly welcome applications from people of colour, people with disabilities, people who identify as being LGBTQIA+, and people from other commonly marginalised groups who are underrepresented in Chasing the Stigma's team.

How to apply

If this sounds like your next big adventure, then we would absolutely love to hear from you.

Please send your CV to Ellen Drummond at Charity People in the first instance and we'll be in touch with further details if your skills and experience match what we're looking for.

Deadline: 9am on Wednesday 20th May
Interview date: 2nd June

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

Bowel Cancer UK is the UK’s leading bowel cancer charity. We’re determined to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by bowel cancer. We support and fund targeted research, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, educate the public and professionals about the disease and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.

We currently have employees working across four nations in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’re in a privileged position to be able to deliver our ambitious new strategy, On a Mission. There are huge challenges facing bowel cancer patients across the UK and our community needs us now more than ever. We’re building a strong and united team to bring us closer to a world where nobody dies of bowel cancer.

Job Summary

This role forms a key part of a new Strategy & Insight Team at Bowel Cancer UK, which seeks to build core capabilities to enable us to be as effective as we can be for people affected by bowel cancer. The Audience Insight Specialist will be an internal leader, building our capability to understand our core audiences and the people we need to reach to achieve our strategic goals. You will support a cultural shift in how the charity takes an audience-led approach to planning, decision-making, and communications, as our CRM, data infrastructure, and Strategy & Insight functions continue to develop. Making best use of internal and external sources, you will distil data into meaningful insight, tailored to different audiences. You will support a consistent approach to audiences across the organisation, while flexing to meet the needs of different teams, ensuring that any understanding of audience is rooted in evidence.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and at Bowel Cancer UK we are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Successful candidates may be subject to either a satisfactory basic, standard or enhanced DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dependent upon the role.

Salary: £41,063 – £45,626 per annum
Contract: Permanent, full time
Location: Home based (with regular travel to London and across the UK)
Closing date: 8^th May
Benefits: 27 days annual leave bank holidays with the option to buy another week & additional December closure day, enhanced parental leave, Cycling UK membership, Medicash Healthcare plan

We’re very excited to be recruiting a Philanthropy Manager to join the team at Cycling UK and play a pivotal role in shaping and growing the organisation’s major donor and legacy fundraising programme.

This is a senior and influential role, offering the opportunity to build and embed philanthropy at the heart of Cycling UK. Working closely with the Head of Fundraising and colleagues across the organisation, you will help transform a developing programme into a mature, relationship-led income stream that delivers sustainable long-term growth.

You will lead the development and delivery of the philanthropy strategy, managing major donor and legacy pipelines, designing compelling stewardship and engagement opportunities, and securing high-value, multi-year gifts. The role combines strategic leadership with hands?on delivery and will suit someone motivated by building meaningful donor relationships, creating inspiring propositions and demonstrating impact.

To be successful as the Philanthropy Manager, you will need:

• Proven experience in major donor and relationship-led fundraising, with a strong track record of securing high-value gifts
• Understanding of legacy and trust & foundation fundraising, including pipeline management and stewardship
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills, with confidence engaging senior stakeholders and supporters

If you would like to discuss this role with us, please email your CV to [email protected] or contact us quoting reference 2945JP

Ashby Jenkins Recruitment are a specialist charity recruitment agency. We use our extensive sector knowledge and experience to match candidates to the most suitable charity jobs and are passionate about improving equality across the sector — you can read more about our commitment to diversity on our website.
We take a relationship-led approach to recruitment in the charity sector and partner with you as the leading charity recruitment agency.

If enough applications are received, the charity reserves the right to close the application period early.
 

Accommodation-Based Services Manager

We are looking for an Accommodation-Based Services Manager to lead and shape an award-winning service supporting women to live free from abuse.

This is a rare opportunity to take on a senior leadership role within an award-winning, specialist organisation at the forefront of supporting Black and minoritised women and children affected by domestic abuse, including forced marriage and honour based abuse.

Please note that due to the nature of this role, we can only accept female applicants.

Position: Accommodation-Based Services Manager

Location: West Midlands (Birmingham/Walsall)

Hours: Full-time (37.5 hours per week)

Salary: £40,000

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: 25th May 2026

You will not only manage services, you will shape, strengthen and lead high-quality accommodation-based provision, ensuring it is safe, responsive and impactful. This role is ideal for a confident and values-driven Services Manager who is passionate about delivering excellence and driving meaningful change.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring all women are treated with dignity, fairness and respect. Safeguarding is central to everything we do, and this role is critical in embedding safe, high-quality practice across our services

The Role

As Accommodation-Based Services Manager, you will lead the operational delivery of the refuge and accommodation services across the West Midlands.

You will provide strategic and operational leadership, ensuring services are safe, compliant and survivor-centred. You will oversee staff teams, safeguarding practice, housing management, and quality assurance, while contributing to the ongoing development of services.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage accommodation-based services, ensuring safe, high-quality and effective delivery
• Line manage the Senior Support Workers and provide overall leadership across accommodation services, including recruitment, supervision, performance management, training and rota/on-call cover
• Take overall responsibility for safeguarding practice, including oversight of high-risk cases
• Ensure robust risk assessment, safety planning and casework standards
• Oversee referrals, admissions, occupancy and move-on processes
• Ensure effective housing management, including rent systems, housing benefit and arrears monitoring
• Maintain oversight of health and safety, property compliance and refuge security
• Lead on quality assurance, audits, monitoring and continuous improvement
• Ensure accurate reporting to funders, commissioners and senior management
• Manage budgets and monitor expenditure
• Develop strong partnerships with relevant stakeholders, attend multi-agency meetings and represent the organisation externally

About You

You are an experienced and confident leader with a strong track record in managing accommodation-based or refuge services.

You will:

• Have Level 3 qualification in Health & Social Care, Housing, Management (or equivalent experience) plus evidence of continuous professional development
• Bring significant experience of services management within the domestic abuse or VAWG sector, including managing accommodation-based or refuge services
• Have strong expertise in safeguarding and managing high-risk cases
• Be able to lead, motivate and develop teams to deliver high standards
• Have experience managing compliance and complex operations within housing services and knowledge of benefits and refuge processes
• Be confident managing competing priorities and driving service improvement
• Be a strong communicator with the ability to influence and build partnerships
• Be committed to equality, diversity and anti-discriminatory practice
• Have strong organisational, leadership and IT skills (Microsoft Office and case management/ database systems)
• Ability to participate in an on-call rota and work flexibly

Why Work Here

• Be part of an award-winning, specialist “by and for” organisation
• Take on a senior leadership role with real influence and impact
• Lead services that directly change the lives of women and children
• Work within a supportive, experienced and values-driven organisation
• Access ongoing professional development and opportunities to shape services

Important Information

• This post is restricted to women under Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010
• Enhanced DBS check required
• The organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. All staff are expected to share this commitment

You may also have experience in roles such as Housing, Housing Officer, Housing Adviser, Housing and Homelessness Advisor, Housing Support Officer, Housing Support, Refuge Housing, Emergency Housing, Service Manager, Abuse, VAWG, IDVA, Domestic Abuse, Abuse Case Worker. #INDNFP

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and efficient Partnerships Coordinator to join our dynamic team. The main purpose of this role is to support the delivery of high-quality partner engagement and stewardship, ensuring positive and responsive partner experiences. You will be involved in the development of compelling partner communications, and proactively identifying new funding opportunities. Additionally, there will be opportunity to support the implementation of organisational system and process improvements. Essential attributes for this role include a willingness to learn, enthusiasm, drive and a proactive mindset.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the global health or non-profit sector, keen to work with a collaborative & dedicated team, thrive on building and maintaining strong relationships with corporate partners, and eager to get involved in improving internal systems and processes, we would love to hear from you.

Experience & Skills:

Essential:

• Proven experience in corporate partnerships / fundraising, or transferable skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to confidently and competently interact with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Excellent attention to detail, planning, and organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a small team
• A genuine interest in the global health or non-profit sector
• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn
• Flexibility and ability to prioritise workload

Desirable:

• Familiarity with Salesforce or other CRM system
• Experience in streamlining operational systems and processes

Why join us?

• Be part of a global organisation driving real-world impact
• Support a mission focused on equity, systems change and better health outcomes
• Join a supportive and collaborative team environment

Other essential:

• Must have right to work in UK
• Must be able to travel to London to attend quarterly team meetings

Lloyds Bank Foundation 

Regional Public Affairs Manager 

Starting Salary: £50,582 (if based outside London); £53,777 (if based in London) 

Contract: Full-time, permanent contract (we are open to conversations about different ways of working - so please ask) 

Location: Remote role - can be based anywhere in England or Wales with an expectation of frequent travel across England and Wales 

About Lloyds Bank Foundation 

Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales is an independent charitable foundation, backed by Lloyds Banking Group and the people within it. We want everyone to be in a good place - personally, in a home that’s a good place to live, and in a community that’s a good place to belong. 

We play our role by connecting and catalysing community-led change, providing the money, time, tools and connections that build organisations’ capacity and capability, to make people’s lives better and their communities stronger. 

We back people and communities across England and Wales, to make that happen, because when you back brilliant people, brilliant things happen. Our communities are full of ambitious, energetic and determined people stepping up to make their neighbours’ lives better and their communities grow stronger. Day in, day out. 

About the Role 

This is an exciting opportunity to support the delivery of impactful public affairs and influencing activity, strengthening regional voice and national impact. 

As Regional Public Affairs Manager, you will work closely with colleagues to support influencing activity across England and Wales, helping to build confidence, capability, and effectiveness. You will support engagement with decision-makers, campaigns, and partnerships, ensuring activity is aligned and impactful. 

You will play a key role in connecting local insight to national influencing, identifying emerging themes and helping to shape wider organisational priorities. You will also build relationships with external stakeholders, supporting activity that raises the Foundation’s profile and impact. 

About You

We’re looking for someone with experience in public affairs, policy, or influencing, particularly at local or regional level. You will have experience of supporting or delivering influencing activity and working with a range of stakeholders. 

You will be a strong relationship builder who combines practical delivery with the ability to use insight and evidence to inform work. A good understanding of the UK political landscape and a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging is essential. 

How to Apply 

Please click ‘Apply’ to be redirected to our website, where you can download the Candidate Information Pack and find details of how to apply. 

For an informal conversation about the role and application process, please contact our recruitment partner, Atkinson HR via the information in the candidate pack.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

We hold Disability Confident Employer status (Level 2) and are working towards full status by 2027. This means that if you're a disabled applicant and your CV and application answers clearly demonstrate that you meet the essential criteria for the role, we will invite you to interview. 

More broadly, we are committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities and people we work with. We believe that diversity of background, experience and perspective makes us stronger and helps us make better decisions. We actively welcome applications from people who are under-represented in the charity sector, including people from Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic communities, disabled people, and those with experience of the issues our funded charities work to address. 

Key Dates 

Closing Date: Wednesday 13th May 2026 

Optional Q&A Session: Wednesday 6th May 2026 at 09:00-10:00 

First Interview: Friday 22nd May 2026 

Second Interview: Wednesday 3rd June 2026 

What does it take to lead the national voice for special schools at a time of real change?

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – National Association of Special Schools (NASS)

National – home-based, with regular travel across England and Wales, particularly London

£90,000–£110,000 per annum

Full-time, permanent.

About NASS 

The National Association of Special Schools (NASS) is the membership association for special schools in England and Wales. We bring together independent special schools, non-maintained special schools, special academies, maintained special schools and multi-academy trusts with specialist provision.

We exist to inform, support and represent our members, helping specialist schools improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND and secure the place of specialist provision within the wider education system. NASS is known for being accessible, responsive and personal, combining national influence with practical support that members value as timely, human and trustworthy.

This is a pivotal moment for the organisation. In February this year, the Department for Education published a major white paper on SEND reform which will require NASS to both influence national policy on behalf of our members and children and young people, as well as support them to navigate the changes. Our new CEO will need to review our strategy while building on our strong platform and momentum to further deepen our influence and strengthen our internal capacity.

As our next Chief Executive, you will:

• Strategy & Impact: Lead NASS through a period of policy and structural change, ensuring the organisation remains clear on purpose, responsive to members and influential in the SEND landscape.
• Governance & Finance: Work closely with the Board of Trustees to provide strong governance, prudent financial stewardship, robust risk management and clear strategic oversight.
• Operational Leadership: Provide confident leadership to a small, remote team, strengthening collaboration, accountability, resilience and a positive, high-trust culture.
• Income Generation: Oversee budgeting, planning and reporting while developing thoughtful opportunities to diversify income through membership, partnerships, events and related activity.
• Community & Partnerships: Build and sustain trusted relationships with government, parliament, regulators, sector bodies and member schools, ensuring NASS remains relevant and well connected.
• Member Services: Protect and enhance the practical offer to members, from briefings and special interest groups to conferences, webinars, training and peer-to-peer learning.
• Brand & Profile: Act as a credible public ambassador for NASS, helping to modernise communications and broaden the organisation’s voice beyond a founder-shaped model.
• Future Growth: Shape a distributed leadership profile and support a more varied, accessible and engaging approach to membership, advocacy and communications.
• A seasoned senior leader with experience in a charity, membership body, education or public sector setting, and a clear track record of leading through change.
• A strong strategic thinker, able to absorb complex information quickly and translate it into clear, practical direction.
• A confident communicator with the gravitas to represent NASS with members, staff, trustees, MPs, peers, media and national partners.
• A politically astute relationship-builder, comfortable navigating a complex and fast-moving external environment.
• Experienced in governance, with a sound understanding of working with boards or trustees and supporting effective decision-making.
• Numerate and commercially minded, with experience of budgets, financial planning, income generation or partnership development.
• Credible, approachable and resilient, with the emotional intelligence to lead well in a high-profile, remote and sometimes uncertain context.
• Direct SEND experience would be a significant advantage, alongside understanding of specialist education or similarly complex stakeholder environments.

Why NASS?

• This is a chance to lead a respected, member-led organisation with a strong national reputation and a clear public purpose.
• You will help shape the future of specialist education at a time when SEND reform is high on the agenda.
• NASS has a loyal, experienced and collegiate remote staff team, supported by an active Board of Trustees.
• The organisation offers a genuinely influential platform, with strong connections across the sector and with government.

Application

For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill via apply button with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 8th June 2026

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Great opportunity to lead and support our charity's team through the next phase of development to drive One Medicine forward. 

Job Purpose

To lead the operational delivery of Humanimal Trust’s charitable aims and strategic objectives, as set by the Board of Trustees, ensuring that plans are translated into clear priorities, well-managed programmes and effective day-to-day operations. The postholder will line manage the operational team, oversee the finances and the fundraising activities, and maintain strong governance and compliance within Charity Commission requirements, at all times representing the Trust’s One Medicine purpose with professionalism and integrity.

Dimensions

· Line management responsibility for the operational team

· Budget responsibility: manage agreed operational budgets and monitor expenditure against plan

· Oversee delivery of the annual business plan and operational work programme

· Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, supporters, partners and suppliers

· Oversee the fundraising activities

Main Responsibilities and Role

· Provide visible operational leadership for Humanimal Trust, championing One Medicine and role-modelling the Trust’s values

· Translate Board-approved strategy into clear operational priorities, delivery plans and measurable outcomes

· Line-manage the operational team: allocate work, set objectives, provide coaching, and manage performance and wellbeing

· Maintain and improve operational policies, procedures and controls in line with charity regulation, GDPR/data protection and recognised good practice

· Ensure effective delivery of core operational functions (administration, supporter care, governance support, data management and supplier coordination)

· Protect the Trust’s reputation by maintaining high standards of quality, confidentiality, safeguarding and risk management

· Monitor progress against the operational plan, tracking risks, issues and dependencies and reporting regularly to the Chair/Trustees

· Lead on team resourcing and capability: recruitment planning (where applicable), induction, training and continuous improvement

· Work closely with the Chair and Trustees to support good governance, prepare papers, and ensure actions and decisions are implemented

· Attend and present at Board meetings

Finance

· Manage day-to-day financial processes for the Trust, ensuring appropriate approvals, controls and timely processing

· Oversee expense claims and supplier payments in line with policy; ensure accurate records are maintained for audit and reporting

· Track and report on income/expenditure and operational costs, highlighting variances and supporting budget planning with Trustees and finance support (where in place)

· Maintain a clear audit trail for key financial decisions, contracts and delegated approvals

Planning and Organising

· Develop and implement operational plans that translate Trustee priorities into clear workstreams, milestones and accountabilities

· Plan, organise and prioritise team workload and resources to deliver objectives, balancing immediate operational needs with longer-term planning

· Maintain and review the organisational risk register, escalating issues and ensuring proportionate mitigations are in place

· Maintain and review the Trust’s policies and guidance documents

· Monitor and report delivery, performance and compliance (e.g., quarterly/annually as agreed), supporting effective governance and continuous improvement

Decision Making

· Make operational decisions to deliver the Trust’s agreed plans within delegated authority, escalating strategic or high-risk matters to the Chair/Trustees

· Lead and line-manage the operational team, including recruitment planning (where applicable), workload allocation and resource deployment

· Liaise with external partners, supporters, volunteers, suppliers and professional advisers to support delivery and maintain effective relationships

· Liaise with the Chair of Trustees and the Trustees on a regular basis.

· Evaluate and improve processes, systems and ways of working to enhance quality, efficiency, supporter experience and internal control

· Identify learning and development needs for the team and support continuous improvement and professional development

· Manage operational capacity and prioritisation, ensuring resources are aligned to the Trust’s delivery commitments

· Approve expenditure, contracts and commitments within delegated authority and in line with policy

Internal and External Relationships

Internal

· Chair of Trustees and Board of Trustees (including sub-committees), providing timely updates, papers and delivery reporting

· Operational team and volunteers, providing leadership, coordination and support

External

Supporters, donors, partner organisations, volunteers, suppliers and professional advisers (e.g., finance, HR, legal), acting as an operational point of contact as required

Knowledge, Experience, Skills and Style Required

Essential

· Educated to degree level (or equivalent experience), with strong digital/IT capability (MS Office and CRM/databases) and a clear understanding of GDPR/data protection.

· Proven experience in an operational leadership/management role, delivering organisational plans, improving processes and achieving measurable outcomes.

· Excellent communication, negotiation and influencing skills, with the ability to work effectively with Trustees, colleagues, volunteers and external stakeholders.

· Strong people management skills, supporting staff through change, setting clear expectations and creating an inclusive, high-performing team culture.

· Demonstrable experience working in or with a charity/not-for-profit, with a good understanding of governance, compliance and supporter-facing operations (experience in human health, animal health or science an advantage).

· Strong judgement and analytical skills, able to manage competing priorities, budgets and risks and to deliver reliably in a small-organisation environment.

Desirable

· Understanding of the UK charity regulatory environment and good governance practice.

· Experience working with Boards/Trustees, including preparing papers, reporting on delivery and supporting effective decision-making.

· Knowledge and experience of fundraising operations and supporter care.

· Demonstrable understanding of, and commitment to, One Medicine.

Job Context and Special Features

This role is a key senior management position within Humanimal Trust, with responsibility for ensuring that strategy is translated into effective delivery, that the operational team is supported to perform at its best, and that the Trust operates with strong governance, compliance and financial control.

This is a one-year fixed term appointment for a 28-hour (3.5 day) working week, starting at the earliest opportunity.  The role is home-based in the UK, with occasional travel to other locations in the country.

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.

Location: Based in Crisis Skylight Birmingham or Newcastle, with home working in line with Crisis Hybrid Working Policy

Contract: Full time

Salary: £45,379 per annum

About the role

Up for a challenge? Excited about Corporate new business and experienced at building impactful philanthropy networks? Join us at Crisis as our Fundraising Manager (England) where we're looking for an experienced high-value fundraiser who specialises in winning and delivering regional corporate partnerships and philanthropy.  

We are at the start of an exciting new journey to grow high value income in our nations and regions. You will have a great role within a motivated team and have the opportunity to build your fundraising strategy: You will have the autonomy to develop your own high value network, prospects and income pipeline: You will collaborate with our wonderful Skylight teams across England to develop and deliver compelling and bold cases for support.

If you have a great track record in identifying and securing regional corporate high value partnerships and donors and aren’t afraid of a challenge we would love to hear from you.

About you

· Dynamic, experienced, high-value fundraiser

· Specialist in identifying, delivering and winning regional corporate partnerships and philanthropy

· Experienced at identifying, pitching and successfully securing 5 and 6 figure partnerships

· Enjoy creating and delivering compelling Cases for Support

· Results-driven – we have ambitious plans as a charity and as a team

· Enjoy travel; you will be based at either Crisis Skylight Birmingham or Newcastle with regular travel as required. NB we have Skylight Centres in Birmingham, Newcastle, Merseyside, Oxford and London

Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions, we encourage you to apply.

We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities, and backgrounds. 

Working at Crisis 

Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.

Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.  

As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including: 

· A competitive salary. Please note our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage.

• Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy. 
• Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5% 
• 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave. 
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption pay.
• Flexible working around the core hours 10am-4pm 
• Wellbeing Leave to be used flexibly 
• And more! (Full list of benefits available on website) 

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience, and career. 

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

How do I apply?

Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.

Closing date: Sunday 17 May at 23:59

Interview process: Competency-based interview

Interview date and location: Thursday 28 or Friday 29 May, Online Interview

AI in Job Applications

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences.

Accessibility 

We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please contact our Talent Acquisition team to discuss how we can help. 

For more information about our work please our website

Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094 

JOB TITLE: Northern Partnership & Dog Training Manger

LOCATION:                         Northern Region (Including Scotland, Northern England and parts of the Midlands)

SALARY: £37,000 - £45,000 p/a

JOB TYPE: Permanent, Full-Time and Part-Time applications considered

Medical Detection Dogs trains dogs to save lives.

We train specialist dogs to detect the odour of human disease, providing life-saving Medical Alert Assistance Dogs to people with complex health problems across the UK and collaborating with NHS Trusts and other researchers and Universities both in the UK and internationally to advance the early diagnosis of disease.  We have an exciting new opportunity to join this small, but ambitious charity that is a world leader in its specialist, innovative field.

MAIN PURPOSE & SCOPE OF THE ROLE:

The Northern Partnership & Training Manager is responsible for the operational leadership, coordination and quality assurance of Partnership and Dog Training Instructor roles operating within the Northern region.

Partnership and Dog Training Instructor roles within the Medical Alert Assistance Dog department combine elements of dog training, client instructing, partnership placement and aftercare, depending on programme need. This role provides direct line management and oversight of Northern region staff working in these hybrid capacities.

The postholder ensures consistent, high‑quality delivery of MAAD partnerships, working collaboratively with training, welfare and senior management colleagues to support dog progression, client outcomes and compliance with ADUK and ADI standards.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

Provide operational leadership for Northern region Partnership and Dog Training Instructor roles, ensuring staff who work across training, instructing and partnership delivery are effectively supported, coordinated and developed.

You will act as the regional lead for instructor‑delivered partnership work, maintaining oversight of workloads, partnership progression, accreditation readiness and aftercare delivery, while contributing to continuous service improvement under senior management guidance.

Reports to: Interim Head of Partnership Services

ABOUT THE ROLE

You will oversee and coordinate the Northern Medical Alert Assistance Dog function, managing staff in Partnership and Dog Training Instructor roles who support MAAD partnerships from allocation through placement and ongoing aftercare.

You will provide clear leadership, supervision and quality assurance, ensuring consistent delivery standards, balanced workloads and clarity of expectations for staff whose roles span multiple functions.

You will maintain oversight of partnership pipelines, regional capacity and accreditation timelines, ensuring accurate reporting and timely escalation of risks or concerns.

This is a senior operational role requiring strong people management, excellent dog training and instructing expertise, and a calm, organised approach to managing complex client‑facing services.

Responsibilities of the Role

Hybrid Role Leadership & Management (Northern Region)

• Line manage and support Northern region‑based Partnership and Dog Training Instructor roles
• Conduct regular 1:1s, supervision and appraisals
• Chair Northern regional team meetings and provide updates to the Interim Head of Assistance Dog Programme
• Approve annual leave and expenses, ensuring appropriate regional cover
• Support senior Partnership and Dog Training Instructor staff in mentoring or supporting less experienced colleagues
• Ensure staff adhere to departmental standards, methods and policies

Partnerships, Training & Client Delivery

• Oversee the progression of puppies within the Northern region and where required, carry out relevant assessments 
• Oversee the progression of MAAD partnerships across training, placement and aftercare within the Northern region
• Ensure client learning styles, family dynamics and individual needs are identified and supported
• Support or directly deliver Partnership and Dog Training Instructor role activity where required, including: Scent and odour training, Client‑specific training, Placement training, Aftercare and refresher support
• Maintain oversight of partnerships requiring remedial training or additional intervention
• Carry out or support final accreditation assessments where appropriate
• Ensure qualified partnerships continue to meet ADUK standards

Planning, Oversight & Reporting

• Maintain oversight of Northern region partnership activity, including: Applicants, Dogs approaching match, Partnerships in training, Accredited partnerships receiving aftercare
• Escalate risks, delays or welfare concerns to the ADPM with recommended solutions
• Contribute to departmental reports and inspection readiness

Governance, Welfare & Compliance

• Ensure all Partnership and Dog Training Instructor role activity complies with ADUK and ADI regulations
• Liaise with the Health & Welfare Manager regarding health or welfare concerns
• Support rehoming outcomes for withdrawn dogs in conjunction with relevant teams
• Ensure accurate and timely record‑keeping within the Harlequin CRM system
• Occasional handling of the emergency phone, liaising with clients and volunteers to manage emergency situations

Stakeholder & Cross‑Departmental Working

• To ensure volunteers and Dog training contractors based within the Northern region are well supported by regional staff.
• Act as the primary Northern region contact for partnership‑related matters
• Work closely with Applications and Welfare teams
• Support fundraising, communications and volunteering activities when required
• Promote best practice and learning across the charity

PERSON SPECIFICATION:

Experience & Qualifications

Essential

• Minimum 2years’ experience managing or leading staff in the Assistance Dog roles within an ADUK‑affiliated organisation
• Extensive experience delivering assistance dog partnerships, including training, placement and aftercarProven experience mentoring, supporting and performance‑managing staff
• Sound knowledge of ADUK and ADI regulations
• Strong organisational and caseload‑management abilities
• Confident working independently and managing competing priorities
• Comfortable working in the presence of dogs

Desirable

• Experience working with medical alert assistance dogs
• Knowledge of medical conditions affecting adult and child clients
• Experience supporting accreditation reviews or inspection processes

Knowledge & Skills

DESIRABLE

• Strong practical dog handling, scent training and knowledge of dog behaviour and development
• Excellent coaching, assessment and quality‑assurance skills
• Calm, clear and empathetic communication style
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to exercise sound judgement in complex, client‑facing situations
• High level of IT literacy including Microsoft 365 and CRM systems

Other Requirements

• Full UK driving licence
• Willingness and ability to travel across the Northern region
• Willingness to stay away from home and have dogs reside in the home when required

DIVERITY, EQUALITY & INCLUSION

We are a welcoming, diverse and inclusive charity. Medical Detection Dogs thrives when everyone feels comfortable bringing their best self to work. We celebrate difference, whilst striving to create an environment where colleagues feel respected and valued for their unique potential. We are committed to our values on equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Values & Behaviours

Working at Medical Detection Dogs will be a richly rewarding experience.

Our Values & Behaviours encapsulate who we are, what we stand for and what it will feel like to be part of our team:

• We are respectful
• We stay positive
• We strive for excellence
• We communicate and listen
• We are ambassadors
• We are one team

And of course, we advocate for Medical Detection Dogs whenever we get the chance, and we pride ourselves on our role as ambassadors for the charity.