Community development and engagement lead jobs

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced programme manager who will oversee The Advice Workforce Development Fund (AWDF). AWDF is a collaborative programme dedicated to strengthening and sustaining the social welfare advice sector in London. The role will coordinate and run steering and advisory groups, and ‘task and finish’ groups, working with cross-sector stakeholders to enable the implementation of recent recommendations generated by research commissioned by the programme, and help with monitoring and evaluating the project and funded projects under this programme. The successful candidate will have strong project management skills, a commitment to social justice, and a track record of delivering impactful support to external partners.

The workforce development programme was created after working closely with a group of funders and advice sector representatives who are now steering group members. The programme has reached an exciting stage, as it transitions from a foundation-laying and research phase into more of a focus on influencing and implementation of the learning generated to date, while also maintaining and strengthening new and existing relationships. This role, with support from the Head of Sector Support and Grants and the CEO, will oversee the continued development and delivery of this exciting partnership into the longer-term. This role will also work closely with the Propel initiative under London Funders to ensure effective coordination of work is done at all levels.  

If you share our vision that ‘every young person should be supported to gain the confidence, independence and skills they need for a better and brighter future’ we might have the perfect role for you!

ThinkForward is recruiting a Community Coach based in Ashford and the surrounding Kent community to deliver our unique programme supporting young people into further education and employment. If you are….

· Passionate about, and have experience in, supporting young people to make amazing decisions about their futures

· Committed to equity, diversity, anti-racist and anti-discriminatory practice

· Persistent, empathic and agile in your style of work and able to apply a coaching approach to the delivery of our programme

· Able to tell the stories of our work through data

· Confident in running one-to-one and group work sessions

· Knowledgeable of employability practices and the importance of tailored progression planning for young people

…then please click on the attached job pack for our role description and information pack for more details about ThinkForward and the role you could play, then apply via CharityJob with your CV and cover letter.

Applicants should be aware that this position will require access to a personal vehicle.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Senior Development Manager (Philanthropy & Partnerships

Contract Type This is a full time (37.5 hours per week) permanent role, however we welcome applications for flexible working

Salary: £40,814

About Us

Norwich Theatre is one of the leading arts organisations in the UK and the largest in the East of England, encompassing the historic Theatre Royal, the creative hub Stage Two, and the intimate mid-scale Playhouse. We present, produce and co-create a vibrant programme of live performance and creative engagement activities to entertain, enrich and inspire audiences of all ages and backgrounds, and we work with national and international partners to ensure we bring the very best theatre to our region.

We are an independent not-for-profit charity with no regular public funding, and rely on a share of ticket sales, one-off grants, fundraising/membership schemes and other commercial activities to deliver the work we do both on stage and in communities.

About the role

The Senior Manager (Philanthropy & Partnerships) will provide strategic management for Norwich Theatre’s high-value income generation, spearheading the development, expansion and stewardship of corporate partnerships, corporate membership, major donor relationships, legacy giving and other transformational fundraising programmes.

This pivotal role will shape and deliver organisational strategies that secure substantial philanthropic and partnership income, cultivate senior-level relationships, and ensure long-term financial sustainability in alignment with Norwich Theatre’s vision and strategic priorities.

About you

You will have proven experience in managing stakeholder and supporter relationships, together with a track record of cultivating and stewarding high-value supporters, clients or partners.

An excellent negotiator, with strong planning and prioritisation skills, you will be highly collaborative, people focussed and proactive.

We offer

A good salary, 25 days holiday, plus public holidays, plus your birthday off, together with an inclusive culture focussed on wellbeing and happiness. We have a commitment to personal and professional development, discounts on a range of on food, drink and theatre tickets and access to My Discounts, employee discount scheme, offering savings on retail, gyms, travel, utilities and more.

Senior Practice and Research Development Officer (Adults)
Salary £32,684 per annum, actual for 0.8 FTE (£40,855 per annum FTE)
Contract: Fixed term for 18 months, with the potential to extend
Hours: Part-Time 28 hours per week (0.8 FTE)
Location: Hybrid working from Devon TQ12 or Sheffield S1 Office. Home based within UK for the right candidate.

The Vacancy

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Research in Practice has supported evidence-informed practice in adult social care for twenty years and for almost thirty years in the children and families’ sector. We are now seeking a Senior Practice and Research Development Officer to join our adult’s team.

This senior role is ideal for someone with excellent facilitation skills and substantial experience in adult social care or related sectors. While the position requires engagement with and understanding of research it is not a primary research role.

The successful candidate will have experience designing and delivering resources, workshops, webinars, and events for a range of audiences, including senior leaders. The role requires a strong understanding of research, policy, ethical and legal frameworks relevant to practice and the ability to translate complex evidence into accessible learning. Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills are essential.

The post holder will lead a small team of committed Research and Development Officers developing and delivering high-quality learning resources in various formats.

The role involves:

• having substantial experience in adult social care or related sectors
• presenting, chairing, and facilitating a range of sector-wide discussions, workshops, webinars and other learning events,
• supporting the team to develop their facilitation skills,
• scoping, commissioning, writing and editing, event materials and written resources, and supporting the team with this,
• quality assuring learning programme materials and written resources.

About Research in Practice

Research in Practice is part of the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) family. For over 60 years, the NCB has been building a better childhood for all.

Research in Practice works with organisations across adults’ and children’s social care, health, criminal justice, and higher education, supporting evidence-informed approaches to improve policy, services, and outcomes for people of all ages. By bringing together research evidence, practice wisdom, and lived experience, we collaborate with professionals and experts to develop tailored resources, learning opportunities, and specialist support that meet the needs of our partners.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Employee Assistance Programme

Applications close at 08:00am on Wednesday 14th January 2026.
Successful applicants will be notified by Thursday 22nd January 2026 and invited to interview. Assessment and interviews to be conducted on Tuesday 27th January 2026.
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

About the role 

This is a strategic leadership role dedicated to amplifying survivor voices and driving systemic change across the Alliance Partnership and the wider VAWG sector.

The Survivor Movement & Participation Lead (SMPL) will champion survivor leadership by embedding accountability, fostering peer-led services, and building a strong, intersectional movement to end violence against women and girls. The role leads the Experts with Lived Experience (ELE) network, develops survivor-led spaces and leadership pathways, and embeds survivor influence within governance and decision-making. The SMPL will represent survivors and the Alliance in national forums, coalitions and sector discussions, ensuring survivor participation shapes strategies, policy and practice.

Job description 

As the SMPL, you will:

• Lead and coordinate the Experts with Lived Experience (ELE) network, ensuring survivors are supported, resourced and fairly compensated, and design and facilitate survivor-led and peer support spaces grounded in trauma-informed, anti-racist and culturally rooted practice.

• Build survivor leadership through training, mentoring and development opportunities, and embed safeguarding, boundaries, confidentiality and collective care across all survivor involvement.

• Strengthen survivor leadership within VAWG and wider justice movements through campaigns, activism and public engagement, and support cross-movement alliances with LGBTQ+, disability and other justice communities.

• Facilitate survivor participation in governance structures, promote ethical and power-sharing frameworks, represent survivor-led practice in strategic forums and partnerships, and contribute to tools, learning and resources that assess and promote survivor influence.

Closing date and Interviews

This vacancy closes at 9am on Friday 23 January 2026, with first stage interviews anticipated to take place in the week commencing Monday 2 February 2026.

Shortlisted candidates will be asked to design and present a 6–8 week programme for the Fearless Collective. Full details and guidance for this task will be provided after shortlisting.

About us

Women and Girls Network (WGN) is a pan-London organisation that supports women and girls affected by all forms of gendered-based violence. Our overall aim is to promote, preserve and restore the mental health and well-being of women and girls who have experienced, or are at risk of, gendered-based violence, whilst working towards a society free of gendered-based violence.

We do this by:

• Providing women-only holistic and seamless therapeutic services, which meet women and girls’ needs and contribute to total and sustainable recovery from the experiences of violence.
• Evidencing the impact of gendered-based violence and presenting this information in appropriate forums to affect social change in attitudes towards, and responses to, gendered-based violence.
• Developing good practice in the sector by providing training and guidance on specialist service provision and the development of culturally appropriate service delivery.

We are deeply committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity and strength of the women and girls we serve, and we strongly encourage candidates from Black and Global Majority backgrounds with Lived Experience who may not meet all criteria to apply.

WGN is an equal opportunities employer. 

The above post is exempt under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1.

Location: London Hybrid (1-2 days per week in London office)
Interview date: w/c 19th January 2026 

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain.

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. And that impact can be felt by entire family. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer.

We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time

About the role

We are excited to be looking for someone with expertise in high value fundraising communications and project management to join our growing Philanthropy and Partnerships team. This role is central to ensuring our fundraisers are equipped with the tools, assets, and information they need to fundraise efficiently and effectively through every step of the donor journey

This exciting role will play key part in helping to drive our ambitious plans to grow Young Lives vs Cancer’s high value (for us, this means income from major donors, grant-making trusts & foundations, and companies) income to £8m net by 2028.

In this role, you will work on a variety of projects from concept stage through to delivery that will help create a step change in the pace and scale at which the team can attract, engage, secure and retain support from high value audiences.

You will also lead on the delivery of  an exceptional high-value stewardship and cultivation strategy, ensuring every supporter experiences a personalised, impactful journey. This includes developing innovative engagement opportunities, showcasing the tangible difference their support makes, and building deep, trust-based relationships that inspire long-term commitment. You will champion best-in-class stewardship practices, leveraging insight and creativity to strengthen connections and unlock transformational giving.

This role is ideal for a curious, creative and collaborative individual who is committed to delivering exceptional supporter experiences. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.   

What will I be doing?

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in the job description.

Main responsibilities

• Create and maintain a suite of clear and compelling written and designed communications including funding propositions, toolkits and cases for support to secure six and seven figure gifts from high value audiences.
• Coordinate stewardship moments across Philanthropy and Partnerships aligned to key calendar events throughout the year.
• Being responsible for development and overseeing an exciting stewardship and cultivation strategy and action plan for newly identified and top prospects, designed to support the delivery of targets and KPIs around high value fundraising development and income growth.
• Support the development of a culture of philanthropy across the organisation by helping colleagues understand and engage with high-value fundraising. This includes keeping internal teams informed about donor impact, sharing updates through meetings and internal channels, and responding promptly to requests for information. You will help coordinate materials, prepare briefings, and assist with internal events that showcase the importance of philanthropy, ensuring everyone feels connected to and invested in our fundraising success.
• Ensure accurate and timely updating of donor stewardship activities and communications in the fundraising CRM, supporting effective donor journey tracking and reporting.

What do I need? 

Diverse perspectives and unique skillsets are at the heart of Young Lives vs Cancer. If you're passionate about making a positive impact and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet the criteria and person specification fully. Your potential is what matters most to us, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment to help you develop.

Knowledge and skills

• Strong understanding of visual design principles and highly skilled in using Canva and other similar programme to design and create engaging fundraising assets.
• Knowledge of philanthropy & partnerships fundraising including an understanding of the different high value audiences and typical motivations for giving.
• Outstanding writing skills e.g. copy writing, proofreading and editing with the ability to adapt messaging for different high value audiences.
• Strong planning and organisational skills; able to work with tight deadlines.

Demonstrable experience of:

• Writing winning bids, applications, proposals or reports for at least one of our high value audiences e.g. companies, trusts and foundations, or high net worth individuals.
• End-to-end project management.
• Developing and managing relationships with multiple internal stakeholders to deliver results.
• Experience working with fundraising CRMs, with a strong understanding of how to record, track and report on donor interactions and stewardship activities.

What will I gain?

 For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Wellbeing, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it.

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. CVs can be uploaded, but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to fully complete the work history sections of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly and objectively.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible.Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

To arrange an informal chat, please contact Liam Mills. 

#ShowTheSalary #NonGraduatesWelcome

Hours: Full time (37.5 hours per week)

Line Manager: Head of Marketing & Communications

Team: Marketing & Communications

Location: Ware, Hertfordshire (hybrid working will be considered)

Salary: £26,523 per annum

All Nations Christian College has been leading the way in cross-cultural mission training for over 60 years. We provide a flexible undergraduate programme validated by The Open University, alongside specialist short courses and a well-established postgraduate programme for mission leaders. Based in the UK, north of London, we are an independent, evangelical, interdenominational Bible college welcoming students from all over the world. Our mission is to serve the global church by training disciples of Jesus Christ for mission in a multicultural world.

Role Overview and Main Responsibilities

One of the main areas of this role is to improve the Digital Marketing systems of the college. This involves managing multiple projects and supervising other team members within their roles. The postholder will also work alongside the CEO to develop and implement a new marketing strategy to enable ANCC to achieve its vision and mission globally. This will include shaping the Marketing and Communications team to support the stakeholder journey for students, partners and donors.

• Enhancing the digital systems of the college for the purposes of marketing
• Work collaboratively with the CEO and Marketing & Communications team to ensure new marketing assets are designed and produced for optimal results

· Generating leads for new applicants, students, partners and donations to the college, optimising our efficiency, and maximising opportunities for engagement.

• Manage the website development project which includes the improvement of the college website for marketing purposes, and improving the User Experience (UXP) ensuring that it is optimised for search engines
• Manage team members for the maintenance and development of the college’s website, SEO, user journey experience, and website assets
• Support and collaborate with the Social Media officer to ensure digital marketing across our platforms, including LinkedIn for digital community engagement.
• Monitor and review performance of digital marketing channels for analytical reporting and making recommendations for improvement.
• Email marketing across stakeholder groups to support recruitment and engagement for the college. This includes the management of Mailchimp and ensuring Donorfy data is up to date.
• Direct marketing to students and partners for college courses, training options, collaborative design, delivery and lifelong learning. This may include digital marketing via website, social media, email, content marketing, print marketing and campaigns.
• Developing a digital marketing campaigns calendar and system for use within the team including the implementation of campaign briefs and tracking of campaigns across ANCC products
• Play an active role within the team to help at promotional events, including national exhibitions and conferences, at the college and elsewhere
• Assist the team with organising college open days and other promotional events (graduations, multicultural evenings, carols at Easneye etc).
• Work creatively with the team to continue to develop strong relationships with ANCC alumni through digital communications, and maximising opportunities for engagement
• Fully participate in All Nations community activities when possible

Other Information

· There is a genuine requirement for this role to be filled by a committed Christian who is passionate about cross cultural mission and fully able to articulate the overall purpose as well as the detail of the College’s mission, from a personal faith basis.

· All Nations Christian College is committed to safeguarding children and adults at risk from abuse and neglect. We expect all staff who work with us to share this commitment, and staff will be required to be checked with the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS).

· Working hours at college are 8.40am - 5.10pm. Occasional weekends and evenings will be required in this role eg for events

· Holiday: 30 days per annum (pro rata) plus 6 of the 8 bank holidays when they fall on a normal working day.

· Applicants must have the right to work in the UK

Benefits

§  Employer pension contributions of 8%.  A salary sacrifice scheme option is also available.
 

§  Life Assurance of three times salary  
 

§  Employee Assistance Programme

§  30 days holiday per annum plus bank holidays (excluding the May bank holidays) plus the days the College is closed between Christmas and New Year.

§  Free, freshly prepared lunch at the College on your working days on site.
 

About the Role

2026 marks 100 years since Gunnersbury Park was opened as a public park, and Gunnersbury Museum and Park Development Trust are looking to hire a freelance development manager to help us make the most of our centenary year. 

We are looking for an experienced development professional to join our team on a freelance basis as part of an Arts Council funded project. This role will be a real opportunity to become embedded in an organisation at the beginning of a transformative period, as we focus our energies on raising awareness of the great work of GMPDT.

The successful candidate will lead GMPDT towards increased financial resilience by identifying new funding opportunities and managing the development of a new fundraising campaign.

They will work with staff and volunteers to develop a ‘project bank’ of fundable projects across the Museum and Park and identify appropriate funding streams for each.

They will also identify one key project to launch Gunnersbury’s first fundraising campaign, working with freelancers/subcontractors to create supporting materials for the chosen campaign.

About You

Experience

• Experience of fundraising and donor engagement in museum/heritage sector and/or environmental sector
• Proven ability to create and deliver successful fundraising campaigns
• Experience of writing compelling cause messaging, or managing the delivery of cause messaging
• Experience of working with small organisations
• Experienced in CRM databases including Beacon
• Confident in managing projects to tight deadlines
• Extensive knowledge of grant writing and reporting
• Experience in writing and producing impact reports

Skills:

• Self-starter with the confidence to work alone as well as within a small, busy team
• Excellent communication skills to reach a wide range of audiences
• A strong leader and trainer of others
• Comfortable working with a wide range of colleagues and stakeholders
• Creative thinker with new ideas for donor engagement and fundraising campaigns.
• Attention to de reporting requirements and compliance for successful grants.

Key Responsibilities

• Audit the existing fundraising/development functions of the organisation, and identify any gaps or missed opportunities
• Working with the Project Board hold workshops with staff and volunteers to develop a ‘project bank’ of fundable ideas, which will include detail of the ideas, potential funding sources and timeline for completion
• Develop new cause messaging, and help to foster a culture of identifying key stories to share with our audiences
• Work with the project team to identify a single project to anchor a new fundraising campaign
• Develop a suite of digital and print content to support the fundraising campaign, and train existing team on the best way to deliver messaging around the campaign
• Report regularly to the project board on the progress of the work stream, and identify any project delivery risks

The Brain & Spine Foundation is seeking a Fundraising-Focused CEO to take the helm of our charity at a moment of growth and opportunity. This is a rare chance to shape the future of a national charity, driving income, influence and impact for the 1 in 6 people in the UK affected by neurological conditions.

As Fundraising Focused CEO, you will combine leadership with personal fundraising delivery, building high-value relationships, diversifying income streams, and raising the charity’s profile. Working closely with a committed Board and a passionate team, you will lead a trusted organisation into its next chapter to ensure more people than ever can access vital information, support and hope when they need it most.

Deadline for applications

Sunday 11th January

Interviews with Brain & Spine Foundation

w/c 19th January

 
Job Description

Job Title:Catchment Partnership Programme Manager

Salary: £42,546 - £48,846 (Manager Band B, Manager Band C,)

Contract length: Permanent, Full time.   

Location:Hybrid, flexible, based at Thames21 office in Guildhall and/ or Bromley by Bow

Responsible to: Head of Improving Rivers

Responsible for: Catchment Partnership Officers and Roding Rises Project Manager

About Thames21

Thames21 is an environmental charity that works across London and the Thames Basin to deliver high-impact, nature-based solutions to the climate and biodiversity crisis by restoring rivers, while also connecting communities to their local green-blue spaces and inspiring long-term stewardship of them. 

Diversity at Thames21

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Thames21 is key to our success and as such we employ staff from a diverse range of backgrounds, this we feel is key in ensuring that everybody has an equal opportunity and is not treated differently or discriminated against because of their characteristics. We value the voices of our individual employees, and we strive to work in a collaborative, innovative balanced way. The postholder must actively support this.

Purpose of the job

Thames21 is seeking an energetic, experienced and committed person to lead our team of Catchment Partnership hosts. This role will involve overseeing the development of our portfolio of 10 hosted and co-hosted Catchment Partnerships across a diverse landscape of urban and rural river catchments spanning London and the wider Thames Basin.

Each partnership is unique, and we pride ourselves in developing each according to the local partners’ vision and as is appropriate for the character of the area and river. Our primary aim is to deliver the Catchment Based Approach and tangible on-the-ground improvements that achieve clean, healthy rivers which deliver social benefits for our communities.

The successful candidate will have operational experience at catchment level as well as management experience. The candidate will take a strategic overview of all catchment partnerships and guide our team of Catchment Partnership hosts and officers, enabling the enhanced delivery of the four priority themes: –

Stakeholder and community engagement as part of active, delivery focused partnerships.
Project identification and development to support delivery of catchment plans, sub-catchment plans and Thames21’s 5-year plan.
Successful fundraising for delivery of river catchment improvement projects.
Knowledge sharing, to bring people together in a way of working that is inclusive, collaborative, cross boundary and catchment wide.

Finally, the role will take a lead in ensuring the Thames21 Catchment Officer/host role is resiliently funded by working closely with partner organisations to increase investment in catchment partnerships to deliver healthy rivers and catchments.

Key responsibilities

· Work with Thames21’s Catchment Partnership Officers/hosts to develop their Catchment Partnership networks and ensure each is delivering against clear catchment and sub catchment action plans.

· Lead on the administration and reporting of Catchment Partnerships programme and line management of the Catchment Partnership team.

· Oversee the management of the Catchment Partnership Team budget, working proactively to identify and fill any funding shortfalls.

· In partnership with the Head of Improving Rivers and Catchment Partnerships Officers, develop each catchment partnerships value to partner organisations with a view to them investing in the catchment partnership host role.

· Support Thames21’s strategic work with external stakeholders through working alongside the Chief Executive Officer to administer the River Partnerships in London (RiPL) group.

· Work closely with Environment Agency catchment coordinators to develop multi-year strategic approaches to delivering national Water Environment Improvement objectives and National Success Measures for Catchment Partnerships.

· Help Catchment Partnership Officers identify, develop and raise funding for river catchment improvement projects, taking a leading role in strategic technical funding bids and working closely with the Heads of Improving Rivers and Fundraising team.

· Contribute to the strategic direction of Thames21 Improving Rivers Team and long-term. sustainability of the organisation.

· Arrange, host and coordinate Catchment Partnership Meetings including production of agendas, minutes and actions.

· Oversee the delivery of strategic projects.

This job description cannot cover every issue or task that may arise within the post at various times and the post-holder will be expected to carry out other reasonable duties from time to time which are broadly consistent with other Thames21 activities and those in this document.

This role has been reopened and the closing date role has now been extended to 5pm Friday 2nd January 2026

Interviews are expected to take place on the weeks of 12th and 19th January 2026, but this is subject to change. 

Are you a commercially minded, senior leader with strong experience in operations, company management, partnership building and income generation?

VDT is seeking an experienced Head of Operations and Business Development to spearhead the implementation of our ambitious new Commercial Strategy, driving growth and expanding income streams.

This is a crucial, high-impact role for someone who thrives on operational excellence, has excellent management skills and a passion for strategy implementation. It is ideal for someone with strong experience in partnership building, negotiating contracts, lead generation and organisational development.

Working closely with the Chief Executive / Artistic Director, the role works collaboratively across the small staff team to deliver the company’s Business Plan, Funding Agreement, Mission and Values. You will identify opportunities, generate new leads and manage the company’s wide range of production, participation and continued professional development programmes. You will grow a new customer base for our online training and E-learning and develop income from within arts academic and social enterprise settings. You will track progress and ensure the company is run in line with best practice. 

You might not have worked in the arts or creative industries before. If you have experience as a Business Manager, Operations Director, Executive Director or Senior Producer within or outside of the cultural / charity sector, then you’ll have the core skills we are looking for.

Closing date for applications: Midday Tuesday 6 January 2026

Interview Date: Thursday 15 January 2026 (possible second interview 23 January 2026).

Are you passionate about school libraries? Do you believe in the power of school libraries to transform children and young people’s experiences in education? Can you communicate confidently to a wide audience and range of stakeholders?  

The School Library Association (SLA) supports approximately 2000 members working in schools across the UK with advice, training and advocacy. The School Library Lead will be at the forefront of our member offer and outreach, to help us deliver on our mission to support all those working in school libraries, so that more children and young people reach their full potential through the school library.   

This role will lead on providing advice, inspiration and support for schools looking to develop their school library provision and all the benefits this brings. An expert in school libraries, you will be comfortable supporting members 1:1, delivering training to larger audiences, providing consultancy to schools and sector organisations, writing training and resources, or preparing book recommendations. An exciting opportunity for someone experienced in school libraries with knowledge of the curriculum, teaching and learning and children’s books, you will be the first port of call for library advice and expertise, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the membership network.

You will be experienced in developing relationships with a variety of stakeholders at all levels relish a busy role. This will include supporting our Branch network, collaborating on initiatives for development, delivery and new projects as they come online. As resident children’s book expert, you will support with programmes and projects such as the SLA Information Book Award and member book-related events. You will work with your SLA colleagues to develop and deliver high-quality member events and training as well as advocacy events to raise awareness of the importance of school libraries. Using your sector insight, you will identify opportunities for development of initiatives that will support the SLA vision and mission enabling us to reach more children and young people through our work.  This is a busy and rewarding role and will suit someone with passion and resilience. 

This is a full time role working remotely, throughout the year (37 hours per week). Find out more about the role including full job description and how to apply by downloading the job specification pack. 

Application deadline: 19th December 

Interviews: First round interview (online): 13th/14th January

Second round interview in person TBC: 20th/22nd January 

Applications without a covering letter will not be considered. No agencies please.   

Due to the volume of applications we cannot provide individual feedback. We really appreciate your interest. If you haven’t heard from us within four weeks of the deadline, it means we’ve moved forward with other candidates on this occasion. We encourage you to apply again in the future. Please note we may close recruitment early should the right candidate be identified.  

Are you passionate about creating unforgettable experiences that make a real difference? Join the Orpheus Centre, a charity dedicated to promoting personal development through the arts, as our Special Events Coordinator. This is your chance to combine creativity, organisation, and purpose in a role that truly matters.

Location: The Orpheus Centre, Godstone, Surrey
Salary: £34,000 per annum
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week

About Us

At Orpheus, our core values—joyful, bold, inclusive, resilient, and determined—shape everything we do. We believe in empowering individuals through the arts and fostering a vibrant, supportive community.

What You’ll Do

• As Special Events Coordinator, you’ll be the driving force behind our fundraising and engagement events. From concept to completion, you’ll:
• Plan and deliver impactful events such as galas, community activities, and corporate functions.
• Manage budgets and targets, ensuring every event delivers value and supports our mission.
• Coordinate logistics, marketing, and build strong relationships with stakeholders, volunteers and partners to create seamless experiences.
• Champion our cause, engaging staff, volunteers, and supporters to amplify our impact.

What We’re Looking For

• At least 2 years’ experience in event planning and coordination.
• Strong organisational, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to manage budgets, negotiate contracts and work under pressure.
• A creative thinker who thrives on delivering exceptional experiences.
• A proactive, positive attitude and willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a car.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a passionate team that celebrates creativity and makes a tangible impact on people’s lives.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities, and the chance to work on events that truly matter
• A supportive, inclusive workplace where your ideas matter.

Join us in making a lasting difference in the lives of young disabled people through the power of the arts.

Orpheus is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people. All posts are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and satisfactory references. This post is classed as having a high degree of contact with vulnerable adults and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. It is an offence to apply for this role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.

As part of our safer recruitment process and in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025, online searches may be undertaken as part of due diligence.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

In order to be considered you must be eligible to work in the UK.

The Orpheus Centre is proud to be a disability confident employer.

We have made a positive commitment to employing disabled people. Reasonable adjustments will be made to the recruitment procedure as required in consultation with the applicant to ensure no-one is disadvantaged because of their disability. If a disabled person is selected for a position, reasonable adjustments will be made to the workplace, including premises and equipment, work duties and practices or policies, as appropriate. All disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role as set out in the role profile and person specification will be considered for interview.

 As a Disability Confident Employer, we are:

• Challenging attitudes towards disability
• Increasing understanding of disability
• Removing barriers to disabled people and those with long-term health conditions
• Ensuring that disabled people have the opportunities to fulfil their potential and realise their aspiration

No agencies please.

About SCEC

SCEC was founded over twenty years ago to provide learning enrichment opportunities to primary school children in disadvantaged communities in south London. Together with our partners, several leading independent schools, we currently operate four schemes in math, literacy, science and art. Children learn through fun, engaging group activities like science experiments, storytelling and mathematical treasure hunts, all taught by qualified teachers with added support from student mentors. Through the schemes, children explore their curiosity, build knowledge and develop their confidence as learners.

Your Role

The Scheme Director is a newly created role that will be pivotal in helping SCEC extend its reach. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will help SCEC design and implement an expansion programme as well as coordinating the delivery of the existing schemes via our school partners. You will also serve as a trusted partner to the Board in the administration of the charity.

Similar to a COO, this role straddles the operational and the strategic. We are looking for a confident communicator and relationship builder who can work across varied stakeholder groups. You will have project management experience that can be applied to challenges like process design and change management. You should be able to grasp the big picture and have an eye for the details needed to deliver successful outcomes.  This is an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to join SCEC on a transformational journey working with excellent learning partners and established leaders to improve educational outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee scheme operations including pupil recruitment, enrolment and attendance to ensure the smooth running of schemes and maximum impact
• Promote the charity to prospective partners and donors
• Support the Board in developing, implementing and monitoring an expansion programme
• Monitor and report on scheme performance and impact
• Prepare and manage budgets and disbursement of funds 
• Build and maintain systems and processes to support scheme operations, compliance and monitoring

Key Qualities

• Passionate about making a difference in the lives of children
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing strategic plans to achieve organisational goals
• Track record of effectively managing programmes and services, including programme development, implementation, and evaluation
• Committed to working collaboratively to build strong relationships with business partners and colleagues and proactively engaging stakeholders when making decisions
• Self-motivated and highly organised, you have a strong sense of initiative and take a hands-on approach to planning and administration

Child Protection

SCEC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This is the responsibility of the whole organisation (trustees and staff).  An enhanced DBS Disclosure is required for this role.

For more information, please see the attached Job Description below