Community leader jobs in Manchester
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Operation Christmas Child UK (OCC) has implemented a strategic volunteer ministry, investing in teams of volunteers who will multiply themselves and hugely extend the reach of OCC’s mission.
OCC is the world’s largest shoebox appeal where Samaritan’s Purse, together with local churches here and overseas, distributes from the UK 1/4 million gift-filled shoeboxes annually to children in need overseas and in so doing demonstrates God’s love in a tangible way while sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.
A resourceful and energetic Regional Manager is needed to recruit, select, equip, and lead teams of volunteers throughout the greater West Midlands area and Wales. You will be passionate about developing others towards highly effective ministry, teamwork and increased personal competency. You will also directly engage churches to participate in OCC in areas not yet covered by Connect volunteers.
You will be confident to take initiative with people and projects and also have good administrative and organisational skills. You will also enjoy envisioning the numerous volunteers who participate in the OCC shoebox appeal each year.
You will enthusiastically support the Christian purposes of OCC and Samaritan’s Purse and be committed to the value of well-equipped volunteers and to developing them further. Candidates will have proven people and project management and administrative experience in the workplace and be educated to A levels or ideally Degree level.
This role is based in region and so prospective candidates should currently live in the region and provide their own transport for which defined expenses will be paid.
Occupational Requirement:
In accordance with the Equality Act of 2010 and due to both the nature and context of the role there is an ‘occupational requirement’ for the post holder to be a committed Christian. The job holder should be committed to the purpose of SPI and be able to demonstrate enthusiasm for the Christian purposes of the organisation and be able to live out, hold to, support and contribute to its Christian ethos.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you want to work for a dynamic, creative, fast-paced charity?
At Action Together we see the amazing things people achieve when they work together to make the lives of others better. If you share our values: believe it’s possible, strengthen others, and be true, we’d love you to consider joining our team.
Finance Director
The ideal candidate
We seek a finance leader driven by values, with extensive experience directing finance operations and delivering top-tier financial planning, reporting, and governance. This role requires strong technical accounting abilities, exceptional communication skills, and the talent to explain complex concepts to diverse audiences.
You should be a collaborative, inclusive leader who excels at developing team members, managing risks, negotiating effectively, and guiding the organisation through periods of change. Most importantly, you must be committed to Action Together’s mission of social justice, equity, and community empowerment.
The role
The Finance Director will play a pivotal role in ensuring Action Together remains financially robust, sustainable, and compliant as a charity and employer. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will partner closely with the CEO and Board to shape a resilient business model, strengthen financial governance, and provide strategic direction that supports our mission and values.
You will lead and develop a high performing finance function, oversee annual budgeting and long‑term financial planning, and ensure high‑quality financial insight is available to the CEO, SLT and Board. The Finance Director has responsibility for the production of monthly accounts package, annual audit and statutory accounts, risk management, payroll assurance, investment strategy, and organisational compliance with Companies House, the Charity Commission, and all financial governance requirements.
You will play an integral role in supporting strong governance, working closely with the Treasurer and Board to provide clear, timely, and insightful financial performance updates, forecasts, and risk assessments.
You will also work with the Treasurer to shape investment strategy, strengthen financial controls, and uphold governance across all statutory, regulatory, and organisational requirements
Equality , Diversity and Inclusion
At Action Together we value diversity, promote equity and challenge discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are committed to ensuring that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race.
In order to ensure that our workforce reflects our communities across all levels of seniority, Action Together is offering a guaranteed interview to any candidate who meets the essential criteria listed in the person specification and who is also:
- A disabled person and/or
- A member of a community experiencing racial inequality
Action Together is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We expect all of our employees to demonstrate this commitment.
Right to work
We do not hold a Sponsor License and are unable to accept applications which require sponsorship to work in the UK
Please note, the successful candidates will be required to undertake a basic Disclosure and barring Service (DBS) check. A positive Disclosure of Offences will not automatically bar an applicant from being appointed and suitable applicants will not be refused employment because of offences that are not relevant.
To strengthen the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise sector. To enable positive social change and promote social justice.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you want to work for a dynamic, creative, fast-paced charity?
At Action Together we see the amazing things people achieve when they work together to make the lives of others better. If you share our values: believe it’s possible, strengthen others, and be true, we’d love you to consider joining our team.
Operations Director
The ideal candidate
We are looking for a values‑driven operational leader with significant experience in senior operations, systems, or transformation roles. You will bring strong technical capability in designing and embedding systems and processes, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to produce high‑quality management information for senior leaders and Boards.
You will be an influential communicator who can lead through change, build strong relationships across the organisation, and support others to work in consistent, effective, and collaborative ways. With a strong grasp of governance, risk, compliance, and organisational assurance, you will balance strategic vision with hands‑on delivery. Above all, you will share Action Together’s commitment to social justice, equity, and strengthening people, places, and partnerships
The role
The Operations Director will lead the development, optimisation, and continuous improvement of Action Together’s systems, processes, and organisational infrastructure. Working as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will co-design, develop, and maintain internal systems and processes that enhance operational delivery and organisational efficiency, ensuring they are fully embedded into day-to-day use with clear ownership, guidance, and effective performance monitoring.
You will oversee core central functions including HR, Communications and Impact, Data Protection and Information Management, and Health & Safety. You will play a key role in internal digital transformation, policy development, risk management, and organisational compliance. You will produce high‑quality management information that supports strategic decision‑making, work closely with Locality Directors to standardise and enhance delivery models. In addition, with reference to our constitution and Scheme of Delegation you will be responsible for supporting governance at Board meetings, and the AGM.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At Action Together we value diversity, promote equity and challenge discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are committed to ensuring that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race.
In order to ensure that our workforce reflects our communities across all levels of seniority, Action Together is offering a guaranteed interview to any candidate who meets the essential criteria listed in the person specification and who is also:
- A disabled person and/or
- A member of a community experiencing racial inequality
Action Together is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We expect all of our employees to demonstrate this commitment.
Right to work
We do not hold a Sponsor License and are unable to accept applications which require sponsorship to work in the UK
Please note, the successful candidates will be required to undertake a basic Disclosure and barring Service (DBS) check. A positive Disclosure of Offences will not automatically bar an applicant from being appointed and suitable applicants will not be refused employment because of offences that are not relevant.
To strengthen the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise sector. To enable positive social change and promote social justice.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
As we look ahead to our next strategic phase from 2026, we are seeking an exceptional leader to build on this momentum. As Chief Executive, you will guide a skilled and dedicated team, work closely with an engaged Board of Trustees, and shape how the Trust deepens its impact while strengthening its voice in policy and practice. The role calls for strategic clarity, strong and authentic relationship-building, and the confidence to represent the Trust across government, civil society, and the energy industry.
We are looking for a leader of sound judgement and emotional intelligence, with a collaborative and inclusive style. Someone who recognises the dignity and potential of the people we serve, and who believes that lasting change is achieved through partnership, evidence, and purpose.
The Trust has evolved significantly in recent years. We now operate with a strengthened in-house team, a clear and ambitious strategic direction, and a growing reputation as both a trusted funder and a respected voice in the national conversation on fuel poverty. Our work spans direct financial assistance, specialist advice, and community-based programmes, underpinned by an increasingly sophisticated understanding of what truly enables households to build resilience. This combination of practical support and system-level insight places us in a distinctive and influential position within the sector.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Organisational Vision & Context:
As we journey towards our vision to bring fulness of life for every child, no matter what struggles they face, we’re looking for a motivated and mission-driven individual to join our team as a Church Relationship Lead for our Make Lunch programme.
While our programmes vary, they share one common thread: an unwavering resolve to see lives transformed for good. Mobilising over 200 churches and 1,500 volunteers, TLG’s volunteer programmes – Early Intervention and Make Lunch – currently support around 5,000 children and their families each year. However, our vision goes further: we aim to see many more churches partner with us to transform lives in their communities.
This Role’s Impact:
We are seeking an experienced, relational, and highly organised leader with a strong passion for the issues of mental health, poverty, and social justice that underpin Make Lunch. Working alongside other Church Relationship Leads, this role will train, support, and develop church-based volunteer Make Lunch teams, ensuring they provide effective support and meaningful connection to children, young people, and families in their communities.
With excellent people, communication and training skills, the postholder will nurture positive, growing relationships with volunteer Make Lunch Coordinators, enabling excellent programme leadership at a local level. Operationally astute and confident in bringing constructive challenge, they will ensure all Make Lunch activities are safe and fully compliant. Driven by a commitment to continuous improvement, they will foster a growth mindset among those they support, maximising the impact of Make Lunch both locally and nationally.
TLG is a Christian charity and, as a team, we want to bring our faith to the work we do; as such, we are recruiting an individual with a strong and vibrant Christian faith. We would welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds to enable us to better reflect the needs of the communities we serve.
Hours: Part time (22.5 hours per week, 0.6 FTE), including Tuesdays
Closing Date: Sunday 29th March
Initial Interviews: Monday 13th April – Online
Final Interviews: Tuesday 21st April – at our National Support Centre in West Yorkshire
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Love creating content that people actually stop to read, watch, and share?
As our Digital Content Producer, you’ll lead Urban Saints’ social media presence - crafting engaging, platform-native content that builds community and drives meaningful engagement. You’ll focus on short-form video and creative storytelling, while also supporting email and website content to ensure everything we share looks strong, consistent, and on brand.
You'll be responsible for:
- Social media and community engagement - creating and publishing engaging content across platforms and growing our social media communities.
- Digital content creation - creating graphics and digital assets in line with our brand guidelines and using design principles.
- Supporting digital channels - creating and sourcing engaging imagery for our website and external emails.
- Collaboration and delivery - working with other members of the Comms team to align with campaigns and priorities.
About You
We're looking for someone with professional experience of creating and managing social-first content with particular strength in Instagram and short-form video content. You'll be able to grow and develop digital communities, and be confident using Adobe Creative Suite. You are proactive, curious, and quick to spot opportunities.
This post is subject to an Occupational Requirement that the post holder is a committed Christian under Part 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010.
Location
The role is home-based with travel as required. All full-time Urban Saints employees are required to attend two team residentials per year.
How to Apply
Please fill out our application form which you can find on our website. The closing date for applications is Friday 20 March at midday. Please note, we will be actively reviewing applications ahead of the closing date and reserve the right to close applications before this date.
After we’ve received your application we’ll be in touch asking for a link to your portfolio or examples of your work (graphics, videos, or other creative projects) that you’re most proud of.
DBS Check
Due to the nature of this position, any offer of employment with Urban Saints will be subject to a satisfactory DBS check.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you an experienced and committed Project Manager? Have you worked in programme delivery for young people in schools or youth settings? Can you communicate confidently to a wide audience and range of stakeholders?
We are seeking a full-time Project Manager to support delivery of our new programme, Reading Reboot, funded by the Charlotte Aitken Trust, and to support the SLA to grow its reach and impact. Reading Reboot is being developed to address the reading crisis and restore a love of reading for young people in Year 8, in communities facing the greatest disadvantage. This is an opportunity to lead a flagship national programme with the potential to shape future investment in school libraries, in a supportive, mission-driven team culture within a small but influential charity.
The Reading Reboot programme will establish librarian-led social book clubs in over 100 under-funded secondary school libraries across the UK and reach more than 6,000 young people directly, alongside librarians, senior leaders and wider school communities. Reading Reboot places school librarians at the heart of delivery, combining new book stock, inspiring author engagement, appealing library spaces, and a robust evaluation to evidence impact and inform future national roll-out.
The Project Manager will lead on development and delivery, working closely with the CEO, a Project Board and external evaluation team to ensure the programme meets its objectives on time, within budget and to a high quality. They will recruit and coordinate schools and librarians, work with partners and funders, and ensure that learning and impact are captured and shared across the sector. Building strong relationships with all stakeholders, the Project Manager will be the main point of contact for the programme and will support the CEO and Project Board with timely updates, papers and participation in meetings. Successful candidates will have extensive and demonstrable experience of project management in schools or youth settings. Experience of training development and delivery will be an advantage.
The salary for this position is £30,000 per year for 37 hours per week on a one year contract, with potential for extension. Find out more about this role and how to apply by downloading the job application pack.
Application deadline: Thursday 26th March, 5pm
Interviews will take place online the week commencing 7th April 2026.
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 one week 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.
Helping schools develop vibrant reading and learning communities


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Salary: £36,910 - £39,960 p.a. depending on experience
Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Location: Hybrid working and to be worked flexibly across Warwickshire
Job Reference Number: 1662
The Cranstoun Group is a charity empowering people to live healthy, safe and happy lives. Our skilled and compassionate teams work with service users, families and communities, helping them to make positive changes.
A new and exciting opportunity has arisen within the organisation to Manage/Lead the Drive programme across Warwickshire.
Drive is an innovative national project that aims to improve the lives and safety of victims and children, by holding high-risk perpetrators to account. The project combines case management of perpetrators with a co-ordinated multi-agency response.
As Service Manager, you will lead and manage the delivery of the Drive programme and interventions. You will champion the Cranstoun values across the organisation and drive the Cranstoun ‘people’ agenda ensuring a culture based on fairness, collaboration and trust. You will support the team leaders and Case Managers in their work, ensuring high quality and safe practice by completing regular case reviews of active cases.
As Service Manager, you will manage a team of Case Managers and Panel Coordinator.
You will work closely alongside and within a wider team of multi -agency stakeholders.
The successful candidate will have management skills and a demonstrable track record within the field of domestic abuse and/or with highly complex cohorts. You will have experience and passion for collaboration, partnership, strategic and organisational development.
Post holder will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check against relevant barred lists.
The post maybe subject to police vetting
For more details and to apply, please visit our website via the apply button.
Closing date: 15 March 2026.
The interview will consist of a formal interview panel.
We are an inclusive employer, committed to promoting equality and diversity in all areas of our work.
Registered Charity No: 1061582
**UPDATE** Due to a high volume of applications this advert will close at 9am on Monday 9th March.
This is a fantastic chance to join a small and friendly team working to improve health outcomes and reduced inequalities for all school-aged children, young people, their families and communities. You will provide day-to-day operational support and coordination across our core organisational functions.
Contract type: Freelance / self-employed
Rate of pay: £23 per hour
Hours: Approximately 20 hours per week
Location: Home-based (UK), with occasional meetings as required
The role is offered on a freelance basis with the opportunity to work remotely and flexibly throughout the week.
**UPDATED** Advert closes at 9am on Monday 9th March with online interviews planned for w/c 16th or 23rd March. We reserve the right to close this advert early.
To achieve equality and excellence in school nursing practice leading to improve health outcomes & reduce health inequalities for school aged children



Our Time Charity is seeking an experienced Communications and Social Media Officer to strengthen our digital presence and amplify the voices of children affected by parental mental illness.
This role plays a central part in delivering our communications strategy by ensuring our message reaches families, professionals, funders and partners with clarity, creativity and purpose. You will manage our social media channels, develop engaging and accessible content, support campaign rollouts, and contribute to PR and stakeholder communications that challenge stigma and raise national awareness.
Working closely with the Communications Lead and the wider team, you’ll help shape and share stories that reflect lived experience, ensuring children feel seen, understood, and less alone, and that the wider system better understands the impact of parental mental health difficulties.
This role is ideal for someone with experience in communications, social media, or digital marketing within a charity or purpose-driven organisation who enjoys combining strategy with hands-on delivery, translating complex topics into compelling content, and using insights to grow reach and engagement.
To learn more about the role, responsibilities and how to apply, please download the full recruitment pack.
Our mission is for every child in the UK, who has a parent with a mental illness, will find the support they need, as early as possible.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Head of Face to Face Fundraising
Reference: MAR20265489
Location: Home-based, Flexible in UK + Regular UK Travel
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-Time, 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £70,490.00 - £75,275.00 Per Annum
Benefits: Pension Scheme, Life Assurance Scheme, 26 days' Annual Leave
The Head of Face-to-Face Fundraising provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of the RSPB’s face-to-face fundraising programme across the UK.
This role is responsible for delivering significant annual supporter acquisition volumes, ensuring an exceptional supporter experience, maintaining sector-leading compliance and safeguarding standards, and building high-performing in-house fundraising teams.
As a senior leader within Fundraising, you will shape the future of the RSPB’s acquisition strategy, drive innovation within the face-to-face channel, and ensure sustainable long-term growth in regular giving and lead generation to support our mission of creating a world richer in nature.
Key Duties:
- Develop and implement an ambitious multi-year Face-to-Face strategy that drives sustainable acquisition growth and contributes to long-term supporter value.
- Lead budgeting, investment planning and forecasting for all F2F channels, ensuring accountability for ROI, cost-effectiveness, and delivery against income and acquisition targets.
- Lead the evolution of F2F propositions, messaging and materials to ensure they are insight-led, compliant, and aligned with the RSPB’s brand and fundraising strategies.
- Champion innovation across the programme, introducing new approaches to optimise ROI and reach new audiences.
- Monitor market trends, regulatory changes and competitor activity to ensure the programme remains compliant, competitive and forward-thinking.
- Act as the organisational lead for face-to-face fundraising compliance, ensuring all activity adheres to the Fundraising Regulator Code, Charity Commission guidelines and data protection legislation.
- Lead, develop and inspire a multi-disciplinary F2F team by fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, continuous improvement and supporter-centred behaviour.
- Work closely with insight teams to analyse performance data, supporter quality, attrition levels and long-term value across channels.
- Develop KPIs and reporting frameworks to provide senior leadership with clear visibility of performance, risks and opportunities.
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders including fundraising, digital, data and technology, communications, brand, marketing and marketing operations, finance and UK country teams to deliver integrated acquisition strategies.
- Champion the role of Face-to-Face fundraising within the RSPB, working with senior leaders and cross-functional teams to increase its prominence and ensure strategic alignment.
- Work closely with the Head of Membership Marketing & Retention to ensure seamless integration between acquisition, onboarding and stewardship journeys.
- Oversee procurement, contract management and ongoing performance of external delivery partners to ensure alignment with organisational goals.
- Lead relationships with external partners, suppliers and agencies, ensuring high-quality delivery, strong return on investment and value for money.
Essential Criteria:
- Able to design and deliver a UK-wide face-to-face or high-volume acquisition programme that achieves agreed supporter and income targets.
- Able to lead and develop regionally dispersed, field-based teams, including setting objectives, monitoring performance and holding managers accountable for results.
- Able to analyse performance data (e.g. conversion, attrition, ROI and quality metrics) and use insight to optimise programme performance.
- Able to manage and monitor programme budgets, including forecasting expenditure and assessing return on investment.
- Able to communicate strategic plans, performance outcomes and risk clearly in written reports and verbal presentations to senior stakeholders.
- Able to work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners to align acquisition activity with organisational strategy.
- Able to travel regularly across the UK to support field operations (by public transport or other means)
- Knowledge of Fundraising Regulator guidance, safeguarding requirements and quality assurance processes relevant to face-to-face fundraising.
- Experience of leading large-scale, multi-site face-to-face fundraising or high-volume acquisition activity in a charity or commercial environment.
- Experience of managing external agencies or suppliers and implementing operational processes that improve performance, compliance and supporter experience.
Additional Information
- This is a home-based role with regular travel across the UK to support teams, partners and operational activity.
- This is a Permanent role for 37.5 hours per week.
- A full, valid UK driving licence is required as the role involves frequent travel to remote locations across all four countries.
Closing date: 23:59, Sunday 29th March 2026
We reserve the right to close this advert once sufficient applications have been received.
We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from 6th April.
Interested?
If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our recruitment partner's website to complete your application for this position.
The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
The RSPB is a licenced sponsor. This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.
As part of this application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.
No agencies please.
The RSPB brings people together – people like you – to protect the things that matter to us all.

Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy levels amongst people in the criminal justice system?
We’ve made substantial progress in recent years, with improvements and expansions to our delivery model and significant growth in our staff team. In Spring 2026, we will launch our refreshed organisational strategy, which will shape our work over the next three years and beyond. To support this growth, we are recruiting for a full time Director of People to help provide strategic people leadership to our growing team of staff and volunteers.
In this pivotal leadership role, you will shape and deliver our People and Culture strategy, ensuring an inclusive, values‑driven and high‑performing environment for our people. You will lead organisation‑wide strategic workforce planning, oversee the full employee lifecycle, and champion initiatives that strengthen engagement, wellbeing and belonging. As a core member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will advise on all workforce matters, drive leadership development, and support our managers to build capability and confidence. You will ensure our HR, volunteering and people operations run smoothly and efficiently, modernising processes and maintaining compliance with employment law, safeguarding requirements and best practice. You will also provide strategic oversight of EDIB work, reward and recognition frameworks, and organisational risk, while leading a dedicated team covering HR, learning and development, and volunteering.
The role requires excellent communication and organisational skills, strong knowledge of employment law, the ability to coach and influence senior leaders, and the capacity to work autonomously while managing multiple priorities effectively. You must be IT literate, with a good working knowledge of the commonly used Microsoft business tools, and be able to work independently. The role calls for a hands-on, collaborative, people‑centred leader with strong emotional intelligence, an inclusive and values‑driven mindset, and the ability to think strategically while remaining performance‑focused and learner‑centred.
We want to hear from applicants who are as committed to the cause as we are.
This is a home-based role but may require occasional travel around the UK including overnight stays. This role is 5 days per week (35 hours) with working days/hours to be mutually agreed in line with business needs.
Employee benefits include a company contribution to pension scheme of up to 5%, 30 days holiday plus bank holidays, life insurance, paid volunteering days, discounts via Reward Gateway and an Employee Assistance Programme. The biggest benefit though is our culture – our people really want to work for the organisation.
We welcome job applications from people with lived experience of the criminal justice system and do not routinely ask for details of any criminal convictions.
Interviews, which will be held online, will take place on 31st March and 1st April 2026
All applications must include a covering letter of no more than 2 pages which outlines your suitability for the role and how you meet the person specification.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you a highly organised project leader with a track record of developing rigorous and impactful processes? Do you want to lead the delivery of the nationally-recognised accreditation transforming mental health in higher education? This could be the role for you.
We’re looking for a methodical and strategic Programme Manager (Award) to manage the end-to-end delivery of University Mental Health Charter (UMHC) Award and act as key spokesperson for the programme.
You’ll play a vital role in ensuring that the Award upholds its standards and values, and continues to develop and scale, supporting positive change for staff and students at universities across the UK.
About the role
- Lead the delivery of the nationally-recognised accreditation for mental health in higher education: the University Mental Health Charter Award.
- The UMHC Award recognises universities that promote the mental health and wellbeing of their university communities and supports them to continually improve.
- You will own the end-to-end management of a complex, high-profile and impactful programme, balancing administrative excellence and strategic development.
Key responsibilities
- Drive the Award lifecycle, from onboarding universities, coordinating our network of assessors and managing the Award panel.
- Scale and continually improve the Award process, ensuring it remains rigorous, impactful and values-led.
- Act as key spokesperson and point of contact for universities and other stakeholders.
- Responsible for budget, risk and line management.
What we’re looking for
- Proven track record of managing complex projects.
- Experience developing, maintaining and improving robust systems and processes.
- A rigorous approach to accuracy and quality control.
- Comfortable holding difficult conversations with stakeholders at all levels.
- A commitment to co-production, equality, anti-racism and an interest in mental health.
Find out more about the essential criteria for this role by downloading our Recruitment Pack from the documents section.
What you will gain
- The chance to contribute to a high-impact national programme supporting better mental health for university communities across the UK.
- Experience in a varied role with opportunities to learn and develop.
- A supportive and collaborative workplace culture that values wellbeing.
- Flexibility in how and where you work.
How to apply
If this sounds like a good fit, we’d love to hear from you!
- Click “Redirect to recruiter”, then scroll to the 'Vacancies and volunteering' section of our 'Join our team' page to access the job listing.
- Download the recruitment pack in the document section at the bottom of this page, where you’ll find more information about the role including responsibilities and person specifications.
- Download and complete our application form - instead of collecting CVs, we use an application form to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all.
- Please refrain from including any identifying details in your application answers.
- Upload your completed application form as a word document.
- Please note that once you start your application on our portal, you will have 24 hours to upload your completed form. Before clicking 'Apply' and beginning the application process, make sure your form is fully completed and ready to upload.
- Complete the Equality Monitoring Form.
Student Minds is committed to building an inclusive team and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and walks of life.
The Organisation
LawCare is the mental health charity for the legal sector, providing free, confidential emotional support and information to people working in law across the UK, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man. While our primary focus is on direct support services, we also play a leading role in advocating for improved mental health practices within legal workplaces and driving cultural transformation through education, training, and research.
Established in 1997, we have spent almost 30 years supporting legal professionals by offering a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space to talk, whether individuals are experiencing day-to-day pressures or more complex, enduring challenges. Our team of Champions, over 100 volunteers, and staff bring lived experience of the legal sector, enabling us to provide informed, empathetic support grounded in a deep understanding of the profession’s unique demands.
We serve all branches of the legal community, including barristers, solicitors, in-house teams, chartered legal executives, and business and support staff. From early-career professionals facing bullying or imposter syndrome to senior leaders managing risk, regulatory pressures, or professional isolation, we are a trusted and independent source of support.
In addition to our direct support services - including helpline, live online chat, and email support - we provide peer support and maintain a substantial, regularly updated online library of resources, including articles, personal stories, research, and multimedia content designed to promote mental health awareness and resilience across the sector. We also deliver training on mental wellbeing, management and supervision, vicarious trauma, and the new SRA workplace behaviour standards, and offer online sessions for legal workplaces and organisations to explain the support we provide.
By combining frontline service delivery with sector-wide advocacy, LawCare is uniquely positioned at the intersection of individual wellbeing and organisational cultural change. We are supported by a strong, capable team and a committed Board of Trustees, enabling us to continue making a meaningful impact across the legal profession.
The Role
LawCare is seeking an inspiring and values-led Chief Executive to lead the charity into its next phase of development at a pivotal moment for the legal profession. As the public face and strategic leader of the organisation, the Chief Executive will champion LawCare’s mission - ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality, confidential support services while strengthening its voice and influence across a rapidly evolving and increasingly commercial mental health landscape.
This is an exciting opportunity to build on strong foundations, guiding a respected and independent charity through a period of significant sector change. Working closely with staff, volunteers, funders and partners, the Chief Executive will drive sustainable growth, deepen impact, and help shape a more compassionate and mentally healthy legal culture for the future.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Impact
- Lead delivery of LawCare’s forthcoming strategy (2026 onwards), translating vision into measurable impact.
- Ensure LawCare sharpens its positioning and messaging in a crowded mental health marketplace.
- Balance direct support services, research, education and influencing work to maximise impact.
- Identify what the charity should prioritise and where it should collaborate rather than deliver directly.
External Relations & Sector Influence
- Act as the primary ambassador and spokesperson for LawCare across the legal sector in the UK, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man.
- Build and maintain senior relationships with:
- Professional bodies
- Regulators
- Law firms and chambers
- Legal educators
- Funders and charitable trusts
- Speak regularly at conferences, sector events, roundtables and award ceremonies. These are primarily London based, however, there will be occasions where representation is required across England, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.
- Build alliances to influence policy, regulation and workplace practice around mental health and wellbeing.
- Position LawCare as the authoritative, evidence-informed voice on mental health in law.
Service Oversight & Quality
- Ensure the continued delivery of high-quality, confidential helpline and peer support services.
- Maintain robust safeguarding, confidentiality and data governance practices.
- Oversee volunteer recruitment, training and engagement.
- Ensure services evolve in response to emerging issues (e.g., stress, anxiety, workplace conflict, regulatory pressure, AI-related disruption).
Financial Sustainability & Governance
- Lead financial planning and sustainability, working closely with the Treasurer and Board.
- Manage relationships with core professional body funders and diversify income streams.
- Develop compelling funding cases and annual pitches to key stakeholders.
- Strengthen reserves and long-term financial resilience.
- Ensure strong governance, compliance and risk management.
- Support and work closely with the incoming Chair and a refreshed Board.
Research, Education & Prevention
- Build on the impact of the Life in the Law research programme.
- Promote preventative approaches for firms and educators.
- Strengthen LawCare’s role in vocational education and regulatory conversations.
- Ensure research informs policy influence and funding opportunities.
Organisational Leadership
- Lead, support and develop a small, experienced and fully remote team.
- Foster a culture of trust, collaboration, wellbeing and accountability.
- Provide clarity and reassurance during a period of leadership transition and financial strengthening.
- Ensure operational efficiency and effective use of technology in a remote environment.
The Person
LawCare is seeking a credible, strategic and values-driven leader with a deep understanding of the legal profession and the pressures shaping it today. You will bring senior leadership experience, strong commercial and financial acumen, and the ability to balance operational excellence with sector-wide influence.
An authentic and compelling ambassador for mental health and wellbeing, you will be an exceptional communicator who builds trust with ease. Emotionally intelligent, resilient and grounded, you will combine empathy with clarity and conviction, guiding the organisation confidently while remaining steadfast in your commitment to improving mental health across the legal community.
Essential
Professional Background
- Prior professional experience in the legal sector is required. Experience working in a qualified or regulated professional role is desirable.
- Deep, intrinsic understanding of the culture, pressures and structural dynamics of the profession.
- Senior leadership experience with responsibility for strategy, people and budgets.
Leadership & Influence
- Credible, visible and compelling leader with presence.
- Exceptional communicator - confident public speaker and strong writer.
- Knowledge of mental health systems, workplace wellbeing or addiction support.
- Able to influence senior stakeholders and bring sceptical audiences “on the journey.”
- A credible ambassador for mental health and wellbeing - knowledge of mental health systems, workplace wellbeing or addiction support.
- Comfortable operating at Board level.
Organisational Capacity
- Experience managing and motivating high-performing teams (ideally remote).
- Financial acumen, including budget oversight and income generation.
- Fundraising experience, particularly with trusts, foundations or membership bodies.
- Ability to balance operational delivery with strategic influence.
- Skilled at prioritisation in resource-constrained environments.
Personal Qualities
- Authentic commitment to mental health and wellbeing.
- Emotionally intelligent, empathetic and values-driven.
- Resilient and calm under pressure.
- Able to navigate sensitive conversations with discretion and diplomacy.
Desirable
- Experience within the charity or not-for-profit sector.
- Experience working with regulators or professional bodies.
- Understanding of research commissioning or evidence-led advocacy.
Further information
For further information about LawCare, the scope of the role and the person specification, please download the Candidate Briefing Pack.
How to Apply
If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please provide the following with your application:
- An up to date CV, with the details of two referees (we will not contact them without your prior permission).
- A supporting statement outlining how you meet the criteria set out in the Person Specification, along with your motivation for applying for the role.
Closing date for applications: Monday 30th March 2026
Preliminary interviews with Russam: Wednesday 8th & Thursday 9th April 2026
Interviews with LawCare: Week commencing 20th April 2026
We look forward to receiving your application.
Purpose of the role:
Back Up courses are a vital part of what we do and have been transforming lives for almost 30 years. You will play a critical role in making this fantastic service work as well as supporting the wider team.
You will be the main support and liaison for participants, buddies and care team volunteers, ensuring that everyone feels supported and knows what to expect. You will ensure courses run smoothly and effectively through an effective, efficient administration service.
Key stakeholders:
People with spinal cord injury (SCI) and their families; professionals and organisations working with people affected by SCI; Back Up staff
How to apply:
• A CV (including two referees, one of whom should be your present or most recent employer. We will contact them after interview.)
• A (maximum) two side A4 supporting statement, saying why you want the job and explaining how you meet the criteria in the job description. This statement is crucial; CVs alone will not be accepted.
• A completed equal opportunity form. This form will be kept separate from your application and not viewed by the recruiting manager. It is used to help us assess the diversity of our applicants to ensure our processes are fair to all. It is optional to fill in, but it will help us improve and maintain high standards.
At Back Up, our vision is a world where everyone affected by spinal cord injury can reach their full potential.



