Community development executive jobs

About the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

For over 50 years, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust has been at the forefront of wildlife conservation in Kenya. Founded on the extraordinary work of Dame Daphne Sheldrick, we are best known for our orphaned elephant rescue and rehabilitation programme – the most successful of its kind in the world. Our work has grown to encompass anti-poaching, habitat protection, community conservation and long-term field programmes across East Africa.

We have a global community of passionate supporters, a powerful brand, and a cause that genuinely moves people. Our UK charity facilitates the global elephant adoption programme, leads on UK fundraising, and connects supporters everywhere with the animals and landscapes they love.

The Opportunity

This is a new and significant appointment for SWT UK. We are looking for a Director of Development to develop and lead our UK fundraising strategy – taking ownership of income generation across all streams, donor communications and supporter stewardship, and managing a team of three talented fundraising professionals.

Our individual supporter base is large globally – growing in UK – loyal and deeply engaged: many give through our elephant adoption programme, which connects them directly with named animals in our care. We are now ready to build on this engaged supporter base and develop it into a structured individual giving programme – with mid-level giving pathways, major donor cultivation, systematic stewardship and deeper philanthropic relationships. That is the central challenge and opportunity of this role.

We also have active corporate and trust relationships, a legacy programme in development, and real potential to grow income from European and international funders. The Director of Development will take ownership of all of this – hands on and strategic in equal measure.

What You Will Do

• Develop and implement a new UK fundraising strategy, establishing clear priorities, income targets and programmes that will drive growth through to 2030 and beyond
• Develop and implement a UK individual giving programme – building on our adoption base to create structured giving journeys, mid-level and major donor cultivation, and meaningful stewardship
• Manage the UK fundraising budget, set and monitor income targets across all streams, and report regularly to the Executive Director on performance and ROI
• Take day-to-day ownership of corporate and trust relationships, writing reports, proposals and partner communications
• Build a major donor programme from the ground up, identifying and cultivating high-value individual prospects
• Develop legacy marketing activity, working alongside our existing legacy administrator and Freewill partnership
• Manage and inspire a team of three: Communications and Fundraising Manager, Retail Manager and Supporter Care Officer, and Fundraising Support Officer
• Oversee the donor database (Donorfy), ensuring data quality and insight-driven decision making
• Explore opportunities to grow income from European and international donors
• Contribute to the global income picture, including through improved donor stewardship and deeper supporter engagement
• Support the growth of SWT's profile and visibility in the UK through press opportunities, social media, and other channels.

About You

We are looking for a fundraiser who loves the craft – someone who is energised by building relationships, writing a compelling proposal, developing a giving programme from scratch, and ensuring every supporter feels genuinely valued. This is a hands-on role as much as a leadership one, and the right person will be comfortable doing both.

• Proven track record in fundraising, with demonstrable success securing income from individuals, trusts or corporates – including five-figure gifts and above
• Experience developing individual giving programmes, including mid-level or major donor cultivation
• A hands-on practitioner – comfortable writing proposals, reports and donor communications yourself
• Experience managing a small fundraising team with warmth, clarity and accountability
• Strong relationship management and stewardship skills
• Experience working with a donor CRM and using data to inform fundraising decisions
• Comfortable in a building role – excited by developing programmes that don't yet exist
• Experience managing fundraising budgets and producing income forecasts and performance reports.
• Genuine passion for wildlife conservation – this role is for someone who cares about the cause
• Committed to in-person working – we believe day-to-day presence and collaboration produces better outcomes for our donors and our team, and ask for a minimum of three days per week at our Billingshurst office

Why Join Us

• A mission that genuinely matters – 50 years of life-changing conservation work and a cause that moves people around the world
• A large, loyal and warm supporter base with significant untapped potential
• Real scope to build something – this is a new role with genuine influence from day one
• A small, close-knit team with shared purpose and a genuine commitment to each other's wellbeing
• Direct line to the Executive Director and member of senior leadership team
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (33 days total)
• Salary exchange pension with 5% employer contribution
• Salary of £55,000 – £60,000 depending on experience

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a covering letter of no more than two pages – telling us why you are interested in this role and how your experience meets the person specification – by 16th August 2026.

We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and may appoint before the closing date, so early application is encouraged.

All applicants must have the right to work in the United Kingdom. We are unable to sponsor visa applications for this role.

Help build meaningful relationships with communities most impacted by the criminal legal system and ensure their voices inform research, policy and advocacy.

We're looking for a Community Engagement Coordinator to join UNJUST and support the development and delivery of community engagement activities that amplify lived experience, build trust, raise awareness and contribute to our research, policy and advocacy aims.

Working closely with colleagues across the organisation, you'll build and maintain relationships with community groups, grassroots organisations and individuals with lived experience of the criminal justice system. You'll design and deliver engagement events, facilitate workshops and listening sessions, promote opportunities for community members to get involved in UNJUST's work and help develop creative, ethical ways of gathering and sharing lived experience stories.

The role also includes co-creating programmes and materials with communities, supporting content creation for social media, recruiting interns and volunteers from impacted communities, and representing UNJUST in relevant forums, networks and coalitions.

We're looking for someone with experience in community engagement, organising or outreach, strong relationship-building and communication skills, and an understanding of racial justice and the UK criminal justice system. You'll be committed to UNJUST's mission, values and anti-racist working practices, and be comfortable working independently as well as collaboratively.

UNJUST is committed to tackling systemic racism and discriminatory processes, policy and practices within the criminal legal system. We work at the intersection of lived experience, research, law, advocacy and community power to expose the root causes of injustice, reimagine equitable systems and bring about transformative outcomes. Our work centres the voices of those most impacted and is guided by our values of realism, empathy, visionary thinking, activism, collaboration and trust.

Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) for Brazilian communities

Part Time | 18.75 hours per week

Salary: £27,500 to £30,000 per annum including London Weighting (pro rata)

Location: London, with outreach and remote support as required

Aymara London CIC is seeking a passionate and committed Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) to join our growing specialist domestic abuse team.

As a lived experience led organisation, we provide culturally competent, trauma informed and survivor centred support to women from migrant and racially minoritised communities affected by violence against women and girls. As part of the Safe Horizons London Partnership, funded by MOPAC and led by Victim Support, we deliver specialist advocacy and support for women from Latin American communities across London.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting survivors of domestic abuse to improve their safety, wellbeing and access to justice.

About the role

You will provide high quality advocacy, risk management and practical support to women experiencing domestic abuse. You will work closely with survivors to develop safety plans, navigate complex systems and access housing, legal, health and other specialist services.

You will represent survivors within multi agency settings including MARAC, build strong partnerships with statutory and voluntary sector organisations and contribute to community engagement and prevention activities.

About you

We are looking for someone with:

• Experience supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse or other forms of violence against women and girls

• Experience of risk assessment, safety planning and case management

• Strong advocacy and partnership working skills

• An understanding of trauma informed practice and safeguarding

• A commitment to survivor empowerment, equality and culturally competent practice

• Fluent spoken and written English and Portuguese

For reasons of representation, trust and cultural competence, applicants must be women from a Brazilian background. This requirement is applied in accordance with Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

Why join Aymara?

You will be joining a values driven organisation with strong community roots and a commitment to improving outcomes for migrant women. We offer a supportive working environment, regular supervision, opportunities for professional development and the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of survivors.

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Closing date: 31 July 2026, 5:00pm

Please see the attached Job Description and Person Specification for full details.

Reducing the Risk is an Oxfordshire-based charity with a growing regional and national reputation for delivering high-quality, victim-centred domestic abuse services. Established in 2007, we empower communities, train multi-agency professionals, and provide critical Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) services to ensure the safety and wellbeing of adults and children at risk.

We are now looking for an exceptional, values-driven leader to build on these strong foundations and guide us through our next exciting phase of growth and innovation.

The Role

As our next Chief Executive Officer, you will work closely with an ambitious Board of Trustees to shape and deliver the charity’s strategic plan. Inheriting a highly skilled, dedicated team of practitioners and a network of over 1,800 Domestic Abuse Champions, you will balance compassionate strategic vision with sound operational and financial leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute the charity's strategic plan, driving innovation and service development across our local and national footprint.

• Income & Sustainability: Diversify income streams beyond traditional grants, growing our accredited training and consultancy services into sustainable earned revenue.

• Partnership & Influence: Act as the principal public voice for the charity, building high-impact relationships with statutory, corporate, and voluntary sector partners.

• People & Culture: Foster an inclusive, high-performing, and trauma-informed workplace culture that prioritises staff wellbeing.

• Governance & Compliance: Oversee robust risk management, safeguarding frameworks, and regulatory compliance alongside the Board.

Who We Are Looking For

You are a credible, resilient senior leader with a proven track record in the charity, public, or social impact sectors. While a background in the domestic abuse sector is highly valued, what matters most is your ability to navigate complex funding environments, secure multi-source income, and champion victim-centred practices. You are a collaborative relationship-builder who combines commercial awareness with genuine empathy and integrity.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your up-to-date CV alongside a covering letter explaining how your experience meets the job description and person specification.

• Application Deadline: Midday, 14th August

• Shortlisting: 19th August

• Interviews: 26th August (In-person at our Oxford office)

Aymara London CIC is seeking a passionate and committed Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) to join our growing specialist domestic abuse team.

As a lived experience led organisation, we provide culturally competent, trauma informed and survivor centred support to women from migrant and racially minoritised communities affected by violence against women and girls. As part of the Safe Horizons London Partnership, funded by MOPAC and led by Victim Support, we deliver specialist advocacy and support for women from Latin American communities across London.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting survivors of domestic abuse to improve their safety, wellbeing and access to justice.

About the role

You will provide high quality advocacy, risk management and practical support to women experiencing domestic abuse. You will work closely with survivors to develop safety plans, navigate complex systems and access housing, legal, health and other specialist services.

You will represent survivors within multi agency settings including MARAC, build strong partnerships with statutory and voluntary sector organisations and contribute to community engagement and prevention activities.

About you

We are looking for someone with:

• Experience supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse or other forms of violence against women and girls

• Experience of risk assessment, safety planning and case management

• Strong advocacy and partnership working skills

• An understanding of trauma informed practice and safeguarding

• A commitment to survivor empowerment, equality and culturally competent practice

• Fluent spoken and written English and Spanish

For reasons of representation, trust and cultural competence, applicants must be women from a Spanish speaking Latin American background. This requirement is applied in accordance with Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

Why join Aymara?

You will be joining a values driven organisation with strong community roots and a commitment to improving outcomes for migrant women. We offer a supportive working environment, regular supervision, opportunities for professional development and the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of survivors.

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.

Closing date: 31 July 2026, 5:00pm

Please see the attached Job Description and Person Specification for full details.

Help us achieve our vision that fewer people die by suicide.​

We are looking for a Community Fundraiser, to help grow income, strengthen supporter relationships and unlock the power of community fundraising nationwide.​

This is an exciting role within our Community and Events team. You will work in a small team to innovate and drive the delivery of a community fundraising programme to help grow our supporter base and maximise income potential. You’ll inspire and support a range of groups and organisations to raise funds for Samaritans, by building strong, long-term relationships. You’ll also identify and develop new community fundraising opportunities.​

​We’re looking for someone who is solution focused and enjoys working collaboratively to support fundraisers to succeed. If you’re an experienced community fundraiser who thrives on building relationships, identifying opportunities and making things happen, we’d love to hear from you.

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Contract terms:

• £30,000-£33,000 per annum, plus benefits
• Permanent
• 35 hours per week (full-time)
• We are passionate about flexible working, talk to us about your preferences
• Hybrid, linked to our Ewell (Surrey) office
• We value meeting in person and working collaboratively. We work in person around 2 days or more per month
• 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays​

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​What you'll be doing:

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Growing community fundraising income

• Deliver a community fundraising programme, encouraging supporters, groups and organisations to raise funds for Samaritans.
• Identify, develop and secure new community fundraising opportunities.

Building strong supporter and volunteer relationships

• Build strong, long-lasting relationships with supporters.
• Deliver great supporter journeys and experiences that inspire long term engagement.
• Coordinate the delivery of community fundraising events.
• Maintain accurate supporter records, using insight to improve performance.

Innovating and collaborating across Samaritans

• Utilise social media channels and digital communications to promote and encourage fundraising activity.
• Work closely with colleagues across the organisation to ensure fundraising initiatives are aligned

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What you’ll bring:

• ​Experience of community fundraising, supporter engagement or relationship management
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with a range of stakeholders
• Experience of delivering excellent supporter journeys and experiences
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Great organisational and project management skills
   
• An understanding and experience of supporter databases/CRM systems (desirable)
• Experience of working within fundraising regulations (desirable)
• Experience working with volunteers (desirable)
• Experience of digital communications and engagement (desirable)

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For full details, please see the Job Description and Person Specification

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Why Samaritans?

At Samaritans, you’ll join a values-led organisation with a powerful mission. You’ll be part of a collaborative and supportive team where your voice matters, your expertise makes a difference, and your work helps save lives.​

We offer flexible hybrid working, great benefits, and the chance to make a tangible difference in suicide prevention across the UK and Ireland. To find out more about Samaritans, please read our recruitment brochure.​

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the people we support and who support us. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and walks of life. We are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels seen, heard and supported, at all levels of the organisation.

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Apply now

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love for you to apply.​

Please submit your CV and a cover letter (max 2 pages) evidencing expertise and experience you have to do this role. Please consider areas such as:

• Supporter experience and journey development
• Identifying new fundraising opportunities
• Innovation and solution-focused thinking
• Developing corporate pipelines and partnerships

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If you require adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.​

Applications close: ​09:00am on Monday 3rd August 2026​

Interviews: Interviews (online) will be held w/c 10th August.

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At Samaritans, human connection is at the heart of everything we do. 

We do not use AI at any stage during the selection process. Your application will always be carefully reviewed by the recruiting manager or a member of the Talent Attraction Team. 

We kindly ask that you avoid using AI tools to generate your application or interview answers. We want to hear your own ideas, insights, and writing style so your unique strengths can shine through. We recognise that some candidates may use assistive technology or tools to help with accessibility, structure or grammar.   

This is a rare opportunity to lead one of Yorkshire’s most respected community foundations and help shape the future of giving across Calderdale.

For over 35 years, Community Foundation for Calderdale (CFFC) has connected people who care with causes that matter. We believe local generosity has the power to transform lives, strengthen communities and create opportunities for everyone to thrive.

As an independent charitable funder, we work with individuals, families, businesses and organisations to invest in local charities and community groups tackling some of Calderdale’s biggest challenges. Every year, we distribute more than £2 million in grants to support people and places across the borough. At the same time, we are building our permanent endowment, creating a lasting legacy that will continue supporting local communities for generations to come.

This is what makes CFFC unique. We do not just make a difference today. We create a legacy that will benefit Calderdale in perpetuity.

Following many years of successful leadership from our current Chief Executive Officer, we are seeking an exceptional leader to build on this strong foundation and lead CFFC into its next chapter.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic and operational leadership, ensuring CFFC continues to grow its impact, strengthen partnerships and inspire philanthropy across Calderdale.

You will lead and develop a committed staff team, work closely with Trustees, build trusted relationships with donors, businesses, professional advisers, charities and public sector partners, and ensure the organisation remains financially sustainable, well-governed and ambitious for the future.

You will also act as CFFC’s public ambassador, representing the organisation across Calderdale and beyond, while championing the importance of local giving and community investment.

About you

We are looking for an inspiring and collaborative leader with significant senior leadership experience and the ability to build confidence and credibility with a wide range of stakeholders.

You will demonstrate:

Proven strategic leadership and organisational management experience.

Experience of developing successful partnerships, fundraising, income generation or business development.

Strong financial and governance awareness.

Excellent relationship-building, communication and influencing skills.

Experience of leading and developing high-performing teams.

A genuine commitment to community impact and the values of the voluntary sector.

You may come from a community foundation, charitable trust, grant-making organisation, charity, public sector, social enterprise or a commercial organisation with a strong social purpose.

What we offer

Salary in excess of £60,000, dependent on experience.

Permanent, full-time position.

Flexible and hybrid working, with a regular presence required in Calderdale.

20 days annual leave plus bank holidays, additional Easter Tuesday leave and office closure over the Christmas period, rising to 25 days after five years’ service.

Employer pension contribution, with details available in the candidate information pack.

The opportunity to lead a respected local foundation with a strong legacy, deep local relationships and ambitious plans for the future.

Closing date: 31 July 2026

First round interviews: Week commencing 17 August 2026

Second round interviews: Week commencing 24 August 2026

CFFC is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are happy to discuss any adjustments candidates may need during the recruitment process.

If you are an ambitious leader who wants to build on a strong legacy, inspire local philanthropy and help create lasting change for communities across Calderdale, we would love to hear from you.

Link to Change is an award-winning charity dedicated to protecting children and young people from exploitation, abuse and harm. We work alongside children, families, professionals and communities to create safer futures and stronger outcomes.

Now entering an exciting new phase of growth across Bedfordshire and surrounding areas, we are seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation into its next chapter.

 Link to Change has a strong reputation as a trusted specialist in tackling child sexual exploitation, criminal exploitation, online harms and abuse affecting children and young people. Our work has influenced policy and practice, supported thousands of children and families, and amplified the voices of young people with lived experience.

We are ambitious about the future. We want to reach more children, strengthen our influence, grow our services, and continue driving meaningful change within safeguarding systems and communities.

As Chief Executive Officer, you will provide strategic and operational leadership to the charity, ensuring we remain financially sustainable, well governed and focused on achieving the greatest possible impact for children and young people. Working closely with our Board of Trustees, staff team and partners, you will lead organisational development, strengthen relationships across sectors, champion safeguarding excellence and help shape the future direction of the organisation.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected, award-winning charity with a passionate team, a strong reputation and a clear sense of purpose.

We are looking for a values-driven leader who can inspire others, build strong partnerships, navigate complexity and lead with confidence and compassion. You will share our commitment to safeguarding, trauma-informed practice and ensuring that the voices of children and young people remain at the heart of everything we do.

If you are passionate about improving outcomes for vulnerable children and young people and want to lead an organisation that is making a genuine difference every day, we would love to hear from you.

Join Link to Change and help create a future where every child and young person is safe, heard and free from exploitation.

Please ensure to follow the guidance within the application pack on how to apply.

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

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

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

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

Help build South East London's renewable energy future

South East London Community Energy (SELCE) is looking for a Community Renewable Energy Project Developer to help deliver one of London's most exciting community-owned renewable energy programmes.

Working alongside our experienced Renewable Energy Projects Manager and CEO, you will develop community-owned solar projects from initial feasibility through to installation. As your experience grows, you will progressively take ownership of your own projects, developing technical, commercial and stakeholder management skills. Unlike many commercial renewable energy roles, this position provides exposure to the complete project lifecycle, combining technical design, commercial analysis, stakeholder engagement, funding development, planning, procurement and project delivery.

You'll work with schools, charities, leisure centres, faith organisations and businesses, helping them reduce energy costs and carbon emissions while generating long-term income that funds action on fuel poverty.

We're looking for someone who already has a solid grounding in commercial solar and wants to expand their skills across the full project development lifecycle while making a tangible difference to local communities.

Key Responsibilities

Project Development

• Identify and assess potential community solar host sites.
• Undertake desktop feasibility studies and site surveys.
• Procure structural surveys, grid connection studies and planning consultants.
• Apply for grants and development funding.
• Progress projects through planning, legal agreements and delivery.

Solar Design & Commercial Analysis

• Design commercial rooftop solar PV systems using OpenSolar, PVSol or similar software.
• Optimise systems to maximise generation and on-site self-consumption.
• Use SELCE's financial model to assess project viability and electricity pricing.
• Prepare technical and commercial proposals.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build trusted relationships with host organisations.
• Explain SELCE's community-owned financing model.
• Guide organisations through the project development process.
•  Respond to technical and commercial enquiries.

Project Delivery

• Support procurement of installation contractors.
• Support installation delivery alongside the Renewable Energy Projects Manager.
• Assist with leases and Power Purchase Agreements.

Community Engagement

• Represent SELCE at community events.
• Promote community-owned renewable energy.
• Support community investment campaigns.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience designing commercial rooftop solar PV systems using OpenSolar, PVSol, SolarEdge Designer or similar software, with confidence learning new packages.
• Strong Microsoft Excel and analytical skills.
• Excellent written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills.
• Good organisational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Understanding of the commercial aspects of solar PV and associated revenue streams.
• Proactive, self-motivated and enthusiastic about community energy.

Desirable

• Experience supporting delivery of commercial rooftop solar projects.
• Experience through employment, internships or university projects involving commercial solar PV.
• Experience securing grant funding.
• Experience supervising volunteers.
• Experience managing project teams.
• Experience in the community energy sector.
• Full UK driving licence.

Benefits

•  20 days annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays
• 4% employer pension contribution
• Flexible and hybrid working
• Ongoing professional development and mentoring
• Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) for agreed evening and weekend work
• The opportunity to help shape one of the UK's leading community energy organisations

About SELCE

South East London Community Energy (SELCE) is an award-winning, member-owned energy cooperative working to create a fair and just energy transition. We believe everyone should benefit from the transition to renewable energy.

Through our innovative community financing model, local people invest in renewable energy projects that benefit their communities. SELCE currently owns and operates over 550 kWp of solar PV across 12 sites throughout South East London and will install a further 600 kWp this summer, with additional projects already in development.

Our work has received national recognition, including Community Energy Project at the British Renewable Energy Awards 2026, the Fuel Poverty Action award at the Community Energy England Awards 2025 and Social Value Category at Retrofit Academy Awards 2025.

Why join SELCE?

You'll be joining one of the UK's leading community energy organisations at an exciting period of growth. Every project you help deliver will reduce carbon emissions, lower energy costs for schools, charities and community organisations, and generate long-term funding that supports households experiencing fuel poverty.

As a small, ambitious organisation, SELCE offers the opportunity to work directly with senior decision-makers, develop projects from concept to installation and build a unique combination of technical, commercial and people skills.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

SELCE values diversity and is committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve. We particularly welcome applications from people currently underrepresented within the renewable energy sector.

Help build a more inclusive Cheshire East—by empowering people to lead change in their own communities.

Be part of a role where relationships, lived experience and local action create real impact.

As a Community Champion, you’ll be at the heart of community life—building trusted relationships, running conversations and awareness sessions, and helping people feel more included, confident and connected.

A key part of your role will be to find, train and support new Community Champions—people with lived experience who want to make a difference locally. You’ll help them grow in confidence to lead peer activity, share insight and shape what happens next.

You’ll also work with employers and community organisations to break down barriers, improve inclusion, and open up access to wellbeing support, volunteering, training and work. Along the way, you’ll gather real insight and help turn it into practical change.

We’re especially interested in people with lived experience of disability or long-term health conditions—but more than anything, we’re looking for someone who is approachable, proactive and committed to fairness. Someone who builds trust, listens well, and supports others to step forward.

If you want a role where you can see the difference you make in people’s lives and communities, we’d love to hear from you.

Contract: Full-time, permanent
Hours: Full-time
Reports to: Chair; Board of Directors 
Location: Hackney
Salary: £50,000-60,000 depending on experience.
Pension: HSoF participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, free onsite lunches .
Probation period: Six months.

About Hackney School of Food

Hackney School of Food is an award-winning food education hub based in the grounds of Mandeville Primary School in Clapton, East London. Through our teaching kitchen and educational garden, we help children, families and communities build the skills, confidence and knowledge to grow, cook and eat good food.

Each year, we welcome more than 10,000 visits to our kitchen and garden, delivering curriculum programmes for schools alongside community cooking courses, gardening projects, holiday clubs, corporate volunteering and public events. Since becoming a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2023, we have expanded our facilities, strengthened our governance and built a strong reputation as a leader in food education.

We're now looking for an exceptional Managing Director to build on these strong foundations and lead Hackney School of Food through its next phase of growth and impact.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Managing Director (MD) will provide both strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the organisation delivers its mission while remaining financially resilient, well-governed and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.

The Managing Director is responsible for all aspects of the organisation, including strategy, income generation, finance, governance, partnerships, programme delivery and people leadership. Working closely with a small, committed team and an engaged Board, they will build on strong foundations to grow Hackney School of Food's impact, reach and long-term sustainability.

This is a varied, hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys balancing big-picture thinking with practical delivery. One day you may be developing a new partnership, meeting a prospective funder or working with the Board on future strategy; the next you could be supporting the team, welcoming visitors to the garden or solving day-to-day operational challenges.

Key priorities

In your first 12 months you will:

• Build on Hackney School of Food's strong foundations to deliver the next phase of our strategy and growth.

• Increase and diversify income through fundraising, partnerships and commercial opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability.

• Lead, support and develop a small, ambitious team, fostering a positive and inclusive culture where people can thrive.

• Strengthen relationships with funders, partners and local businesses, helping Hackney School of Food deepen its impact.

• Work closely with the Board to embed strong governance, organisational systems and long-term planning for the future.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership 

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for Hackney School of Food, ensuring delivery of its mission, vision and long-term objectives. 

• Lead the development and implementation of Hackney School of Food's annual business plan and organisational priorities.

• Work with the Board to evolve organisational strategy, identify opportunities, manage risks and support sustainable growth.

• Monitor, report on and respond to organisational performance against agreed objectives and impact measures. 

• Champion Hackney School of Food externally, strengthening its profile and influence.
   

Financial sustainability and income generation 

• Oversee organisational budgeting, financial planning, forecasting and cashflow management, working closely with the Treasurer and accountant.

• Lead income generation across the organisation, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, sponsorship and earned income.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, sponsors and strategic partners.

• Ensure all funding commitments are met, including grant reporting, monitoring and evaluation requirements.

• Identify new opportunities to diversify income and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

Partnerships & External Relations

• Act as the main point of contact for HSoF’s key partners, LEAP Federation and Chefs in Schools to ensure the partnerships are effective and positive.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with other key stakeholders, including local authorities, funders and sponsors.

• Represent Hackney School of Food at meetings, events, and public forums.

• Champion the value of food education and contribute to wider local and national conversations. 

• Ensure programmes remain responsive to community needs through ongoing engagement and consultation. 

Governance and public benefit 

• Ensure the organisation operates in line with its CIC objectives and delivers clear public benefit. 

• Support the Board of Directors to fulfil its governance responsibilities through high-quality reporting, planning and decision-making.

• Prepare Board papers, reports and agendas, ensuring timely and accurate information is available to support effective governance.

• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Directors quarterly.

• Act as the primary link between the Board and the operational team.

• Maintain effective governance, delegated authority and accountability frameworks. 

• Support the Board in meeting all statutory and regulatory obligations relating to the CIC.

People, Culture and safeguarding

• Provide leadership to a small core team (currently c.4 employees), directly managing staff and fostering a positive, inclusive culture. 

• Provide oversight and support for a wider network of approx. 15 freelance contractors to ensure consistently high-quality delivery.

• Lead recruitment, induction, performance management and professional development in line with safer recruitment and equality principles. 

• Ensure effective organisational structures, clear roles, and performance accountability.

• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.

• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, embedding safeguarding throughout the organisation maintaining compliance with all relevant requirements. 

• Develop organisational systems, policies and practices that support an inclusive, high-performing workplace.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.

• Oversee organisational policies, procedures and continuous improvement, ensuring policies and legal requirements are up to date, clearly communicated and embedded across the organisation. 

• Ensure compliance with employment law, health and safety, safeguarding, GDPR and other relevant legislation. 

Personal specification

Essential experience 

• Senior leadership experience with responsibility for organisational performance and accountability. 

• Experience securing income through fundraising, partnerships and/or commercial activity.

• Experience of financial leadership, including budget setting, forecasting and cashflow oversight.

• Experience working closely with a Board, Trustees or governing body to translate strategic vision into operational delivery. 

• Experience building and managing successful partnerships with funders, businesses and community stakeholders. 

• Experience in managing and motivating a team, creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture. 

• Experience of governance, compliance and organisational risk management.

• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth or community context.

• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, make sound decisions and remain resilient in a resource-constrained environment.

Essential skills and attributes

• Passion for Hackney School of Food's mission and the role of food education in improving health, wellbeing and community connection. 

• Strategic thinker who is equally comfortable with hands-on operational leadership. 

• Entrepreneurial, resourceful and committed to building long-term financial sustainability and identifying growth opportunities.

• Ability to lead a team through change with sensitivity, clarity and kindness.

• Strong communicator with excellent relationship-building skills. 

• Confident decision-maker with a high level of personal accountability. 

• Committed to equity, inclusion and community-led practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within a Community Interest Company (CIC), social enterprise or charity.

• Knowledge of Hackney, its communities and local stakeholder landscape.

• Experience of working in food education, community food, gardening, environmental education or a related field.

• Experience reviewing and managing contracts, service agreements or other legal documentation.

An inclusive workplace

We know that diverse teams make stronger organisations and are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to fair and inclusive recruitment and will consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

We particularly encourage applications from people who are under-represented in our sector and in leadership roles, including people from the global majority and those whose lived experience brings valuable perspectives from the communities we serve. We also welcome applications from people who live in Hackney or East London.

How to apply

The deadline to apply is Monday 20 July at 9am. Please apply by filling out this application form.

You'll find the link to the application form on our Recruitment Pack which provides more information. 

Stage 1: A one-hour online interview with the Senior Team and Board (24 July) 

Stage 2: On-site interview at Hackney School of Food (30 July), including a short presentation. 

We may also invite the preferred candidate to an informal meeting with the wider team and Board before making a final appointment. 

The successful applicant will need to pass an enhanced DBS check and provide two suitable references. 

We may close the application window earlier if we are inundated with applications, so please don't wait to apply.

If you have any questions about the role or your suitability, please feel free to get in touch with us. You will find a Recruitment pack and email address to contact via our website.

About Multibank Scotland

Multibank Scotland tackles poverty and waste by redistributing essential goods to people who need them. We work through a network of charities, community organisations and frontline services to provide families and individuals with items such as clothing, toiletries, bedding, baby products, household goods and other essentials.

We currently operate across Fife, Dundee, Perth and Edinburgh, and are expanding into Glasgow. This is an important period of growth for the organisation, and we are looking for an entrepreneurial, practical and relationship-focused person to help us build lasting partnerships and identify new opportunities for impact.

Role Overview

The Head of Partnerships and Development will lead Multibank Scotland’s partnership and development activity.

This is a senior, outward-facing role for someone who can identify opportunities, make clear and compelling asks, build trust quickly and turn ideas into practical partnerships. We are looking for someone who creates momentum and follows opportunities through, rather than someone focused solely on networking or stakeholder management.

The role will lead the day-to-day development pipeline across corporate partnerships, product supply, strategic relationships, expansion opportunities, funding proposals and supporter stewardship.

A central part of the role will be developing partnerships that increase the volume, quality and range of goods available for redistribution. This will include working with businesses, manufacturers, retailers, logistics providers and other organisations to secure donated goods, services, expertise and in-kind support.

The postholder will also help expand Multibank Scotland’s reach. Working closely with the Chief Executive and the Scotland-wide Operations Manager, they will support the development of new partnerships, satellite sites and delivery models across Scotland.

Fundraising will form part of the role, but it is not primarily a traditional fundraising post. The emphasis is on building strategic partnerships that create long-term value, whether through goods, funding, services, expertise, infrastructure or collaboration.

The Chief Executive will continue to lead on overall strategy, major funder relationships, Board reporting, governance, finance and key organisational decisions. The successful candidate will add senior capacity at an important stage of growth, helping to turn external interest and opportunity into delivery and lasting impact.

How to Apply

To apply for the Partnerships & Fundraising Manager role, please submit:

• A current CV, outlining your relevant experience and career history
• A cover letter (maximum two pages), clearly demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the person specification and why you are interested in the role Applications close: Sunday 16th August 2026 at 5:00pm

Please download the job description for full details. 

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