Contract manager jobs in thatcham, west berkshire

In2research Alumni Officer

Job Description 

Reports to: Head of Programmes 

Part Time (0.6) - £27,675 per annum FTE (9 month fixed-term contract)

In2research is a high impact and evidence informed social mobility programme for socioeconomically disadvantaged people to access and progress in postgraduate study. Our mission is to drive sector change across institutions towards an inclusive research culture. We strongly believe that it is not enough to guide underrepresented people into postgraduate study, but to ensure that the culture they are entering is inclusive and a place where they can thrive. Over a year, we support participants to gain vital access to both knowledge and opportunities including a paid 8-week research placement and subject specific mentoring. 

As the In2research Alumni Officer, you will deliver a programme of continued support for the In2research participants increasing their ability to apply and be admitted to postgraduate research degrees and opportunities, as well as supporting our mission to foster an increased sense of belonging within the research community for individuals from minority groups. The post holder will have strong knowledge and understanding of the barriers facing young people from low socioeconomic and minority backgrounds accessing postgraduate research degrees and research opportunities.

The post holder will be someone who thrives working with young people and is passionate about supporting them progress to postgraduate research opportunities as well as supporting to achieve the In2research vision of creating a more diverse culture in academia.

In2scienceUK is a remote-based organisation, that requires occasional travel across the UK for events, internal & external meetings and staff co-working days.

Your specific duties will include:

•  Delivering a high quality programme experience to support In2research alumni, aligned with learning objectives, beneficiary insights, our theory of change and resource.

• Develop and deliver engaging alumni communications e.g. newsletters, email updates, linkedin group posts, to keep In2research alumni informed of relevant news, opportunities and events.

• Maintain and develop new relationships with relevant partners to secure deliver online and in-person workshops and events aligned to In2research alumni progression milestones. e.g. "What is a viva and how to prepare for one" & PhD retreats.

• Work with our delivery partners to provide students application support e.g. application clinics.

• Support the delivery of one off in person events, e.g. the In2scienceUK celebration event.

• Maintaining up to date alumni records, in accordance with data protection, as well as working closely with the Data, Impact and Evaluation Manager to evaluate and report on In2research participant progression.

• Support with the collection and creation of case studies and alumni stories to promote alumni achievements and strengthen the community.

• Support the planning and delivery of organisational in-person events e.g. celebration days/conferences.

• Work closely with the In2research programme, fundraising teams and wider organisation to ensure funder requirements are met, and activities communicated.

• Support the wider In2research team with the current programme, and development of future aspects of the programme, where relevant.

As duties and responsibilities change, the job description will be reviewed and amended in consultation with the post holder. The post holder will carry out any other duties that are within the scope, spirit and purpose of the job as requested by the line manager. All staff must undertake all mandatory training, checks and compliance as instructed by the organisation.

Essential: 

• Prior experience managing alumni communities.

• Prior experience of working with students transitioning from higher education to postgraduate research degrees and detailed understanding of PGR pathways.

• A clear understanding of the social and economic barriers that prevent individuals from progressing into postgraduate research opportunities.

• Excellent organisational skills, able to multitask and manage a varied workload while paying attention to the details.

• Experience developing and maintaining strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders at various levels.

• Experience designing and delivering events, both online and in-person, such as workshops and networking events.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong presentation skills and an ability to adapt to a range of audiences.

• Flexible and adaptable, with an ability to pick up new tasks quickly, showing resilience when faced with challenges.

• Knowledge, understanding or experience of programme or project evaluation. 

• Working collaboratively and supporting fostering a collegiate workplace environment.

• Upholds the values of our code of conduct and is respectful to all.

• Competent user of Google Suite, Canva, email marketing software.

Desirable: 

• Prior knowledge or experience of GDPR and safeguarding.

• Experience of using task/project management software and databases.

• Experience delivering programmes and/or projects within the education and academic sector.

Benefits: 

At In2scienceUK we practise what we preach by giving all staff opportunities to progress in their careers. You will have the opportunity to develop your career with guidance from your line manager to get you to the next level from day one. 

Although we take our career development seriously we also value work life balance. You will have the opportunity to work flexibly from home, balancing your caring responsibilities, volunteer commitments, hobbies and anything else that makes you happy. 

In2scienceUK offers a Pension Salary Sacrifice Scheme along with other staff benefits. These include financial and wellbeing support through our employee assistance programme (EAP) and 100’s of retail and high street discounts.

You will have 28 days of annual leave per annum (pro rated to 0.6 FTE equivalent), plus bank holidays. 

Commitment to Safeguarding: 

In2scienceUK is committed to our responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults as outlined in Working Together to Safeguard Children. We are committed to recruiting candidates who share this commitment to safeguarding, and therefore we apply robust recruitment and selection procedures to ensure that the people selected are right for the job, and that all candidates are appropriately screened prior to appointment. 

The following pre-employment checks will be undertaken as applicable:

• References 

• DBS check and/or Overseas criminal records check where applicable

• Self-Disclosure 

• Identity check 

• Right to work in the UK 

• Evidence of qualifications applicable to the role 

• Confirmation of registration with applicable registered body where applicable 

Many of our roles involve working with children and we will therefore take up references prior to your appointment. You should provide details of referees including your current and previous employers, covering the last 5 years. Your current or previous employer will be asked about disciplinary offences relating to children, if the role involved working with children, including any in which the penalty is time expired. We will also ask if you have been the subject of any child protection concerns and if so, the outcome of any enquiry or disciplinary procedure.

Head Chef

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

Job Title: Head Chef

Report to: Operations Team

Hours: 39 per week

Location: Ravenswood Village, Crowthorne, Berkshire, RG45 6BQ

Contract: Permanent

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• To be part of, and lead, a team preparing and providing meals which comply with the laws of Kashrut and Food Hygiene Regulations.
• To provide regular supervision, leadership and development to the catering team.
• Working in a professional manner whilst developing a strong team ethos, where staff and trainees are motivated to reach their full potential.
• To ensure that food is purchased, stored, prepared and served is safe for
• consumption and in accordance with Kosher preparation and cooking of food in appropriate quantities for the allocated services.
• To maintain all aspects of the kitchen, including stock, cleaning and disposal of waste under the regulations set by the Food Standards Agency.
• To prepare and serve well-balanced, nutritious meals, to accommodate and adhere to special dietary needs, vegetarian options and care plans when creating a diverse menu plan for the allocated services.
• To complete periodic deep cleaning of the kitchen as defined in the cleaning schedule.
• To record, report and action all Health and Safety and Food Standards Agency required checks, including food temperatures, fridge and freezer temperatures,
• opening and closing checks.
• Liaise with care staff, home managers and other health professionals as necessary regarding any specific dietary requirements relating to individual health needs and ensure that foods are prepared with due care and attention, with particular regard to these dietary requirements developing menus around this information and guidance.
• To be aware of and comply with the safe working practices as laid down under the Health & Safety at Work Act and Food Hygiene Regulations.
• To support ad hoc functions or events on or off site and to provide cover where necessary, ensuring continuity of the day-to-day operation of the kitchen. This may include the need to work flexibly or additional hours on occasion.

GENERAL:

• To maintain standard of dress that is appropriate to role and in accordance with the organisation’s dress policy.
• To maintain confidentiality at all times and to ensure respect for, proper observance of and adherence to Norwood's confidentiality policy for all staff.
• To work on a rotating rota with the requirement to work at weekends as required. Hours of work per day can vary according to the needs of the service within the weekly hours contracted.
• To attend regular supervision sessions with the line manager and undertake relevant training as and when required.
• To take all reasonable care of the health and safety of themselves and other persons who may be affected by his/her acts or omissions. Co-operate with the organisation as far as is necessary to enable that duty or requirement to be performed or complied with. To report to the Health and Safety Manager regarding a serious risk or your concerns over safety issues.
• To work collaboratively with volunteers to ensure that their contribution enhances the quality of service provision and support across the organisation.
• To work at any other Norwood location, as and when required.
• To provide where required training to support workers providing meals in other services as well as menu review/implementation support as requested.
• To undertake any other duties which are consistent with the post.
• This job description is not an exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of the service.

Reports to: Operations Director (Head of Delivery) 
Contract: Part-time (0.5 FTE) 

Interview process: Will be in the New Year 

Role Purpose 

As Payroll Lead, you will manage HOST’s global payroll operations — ensuring that all staff, contractors, and hosted partners are paid accurately, compliantly, and on time. 

You will bring structure, care, and precision to one of HOST’s most essential services: ensuring the people driving climate and social action receive the financial stability they need to do their best work. 

This role supports both internal HOST staff and hosted partners, liaising across HR, Finance, and Community Support to deliver secure, compliant, and efficient payroll management. You will also help develop new systems and processes as HOST expands internationally, ensuring our operations remain smooth, transparent, and aligned with local legislation. 

Core Responsibilities 

1. Payroll Management 

• Manage all aspects of monthly payroll for UK and international employees, contractors, and hosted partner staff. 

• Prepare and process payroll changes (new hires, terminations, pay adjustments) in line with internal procedures. 

• Ensure timely submission of payroll information to Finance and external providers. 

• Reconcile payroll each month, identifying and resolving any discrepancies. 
   

• Reporting cadence: Monthly payroll cycle; quarterly summary to Operations Director. 

2. Compliance and Record-Keeping 

• Ensure full compliance with UK employment law, tax regulations, and international payroll requirements in collaboration with external providers. 

• Maintain accurate and confidential employee and contractor records. 

• Support statutory reporting, including PAYE, HMRC, and pension submissions. 

• Liaise with HOST’s Finance Team on audits and compliance reviews. 
  Reporting cadence: Monthly compliance report; annual payroll compliance review. 

3. System Management and Improvement 

• Maintain and improve digital payroll systems, ensuring data accuracy and secure integration with Finance and HR tools. 

• Support the development of HOSTHub payroll features and automation processes with the Tech Team. 

• Identify opportunities to simplify workflows and strengthen reporting. 
  Reporting cadence: Quarterly system and process improvement review. 

4. Contractor and International Payroll Support 

• Coordinate with the Community Support and Finance Teams to process international contractor payments, ensuring correct deductions and documentation. 

• Liaise with local payroll providers and Employer of Record (EoR) partners to ensure compliance in each jurisdiction. 

• Track and report on cross-border payroll performance and issue resolution. 
  Reporting cadence: Monthly report; immediate escalation of compliance concerns. 

5. HR and Staff Support 

• Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll queries from staff and contractors, providing clear and timely responses. 

• Collaborate with the HR & Operations teams to ensure policies and processes reflect payroll updates and legislation. 

• Support onboarding and offboarding processes for staff and contractors. 
  Reporting cadence: Ongoing; monthly summary of staff queries and resolutions. 

6. Risk and Confidentiality 

• Identify potential payroll or compliance risks, escalating concerns to the Operations Director and Finance Manager. 

• Ensure all payroll data and personal information are handled securely, in line with GDPR and HOST’s data protection policies. 
  Reporting cadence: Ongoing; quarterly inclusion in organisational risk report. 

Key Relationships 

Internal: Operations Director, Finance Manager, Accountant, Community Support Leads, HR & Payroll External Specialist, and Legal Lead. 
External: Payroll providers, Employer of Record partners, and hosted partner representatives. 

Performance Indicators 

• 100% accuracy in payroll delivery and documentation. 

• 100% on-time monthly payroll completion. 

• All compliance and statutory submissions completed by deadline. 

• 100% confidentiality maintained in payroll data handling. 

• Measurable improvements in payroll efficiency and staff satisfaction. 

Qualifications/Experience:  Member of recognised payroll body e.g. CIPP/GPA 

Salary: £58,504.00 per annum plus a company car

Location: Home based with regular travel across England and Scotland including visits to shops and Old Street

Contract: Permanent

Hours: Full time 37.5 per week

Closing date: Wednesday the 14th of January at 11:30pm

Interviews will be taking place on the 23rd and 27th of January online

Are you a resilient, adaptable leader with proven experience in multi-site retail operations? Shelter is looking for a Head of Retail Operations to join our Retail Senior Leadership team in this exciting new role.

You’ll provide hands on operational leadership while driving long-term planning, systems improvement and service transformation – shaping the future of Shelter Retail to fuel our fight for home.

About the role

This brand new leadership opportunity offers the chance to shape the future of Shelter’s retail operations across England and Scotland.

You will bring strategic vision and operational authority across Shop Support & Buying, E-Commerce Reselling, Store Development, Retail Acquisitions and Retail Operations. As a senior representative you will champion the vital role our shops play as income generators, brand touchpoints and community assets that fuel the fight for home.

With proven experience of leading diverse teams, managing budgets and driving operational excellence you will inspire colleagues, strengthen communication across our shop network and ensure our estate operates consistently, compliantly and sustainably. Above all, you will drive accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement to help Shelter maximise its impact across England and Scotland.

About you

You’ll bring extensive senior leadership experience in multi-site operations, with a provide record of driving performance and commercial success. Skilled at leading diverse teams across operations, buying, projects and support functions, you will balance strategic vision with hands-on delivery.

Be confident navigating complex organisations and influencing senior stakeholders, you’ll also offer robust project management and property operations expertise, from shop openings to system rollouts. Financially astute you are comfortable with budgets, KPI’s and commercial modelling and thrive when leading through change and complexity.

Apply to be part of our team and be the change you want to see in society.

Benefits 

We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave, enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.

Shelter helps millions of people every year struggling with bad housing or homelessness through our advice, support and legal services. And we campaign to make sure that, one day, no one will have to turn to us for help. We’re here so no one has to fight bad housing or homelessness on their own.

We are happy to talk about flexible working, personal growth, and to promote a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.

About the team

The senior leadership team is in period of transition, laying the foundations for the next three years as Shelter retail grows its presence across high streets in England and Scotland, ensuring to embed operational excellence in everything we do. With over 200 staff members and 2000 volunteers across 80 shops, spanning community, furniture and boutique outlets – our central team of 20 supports shop colleagues to maximise income and profitability to fuel Shelter’s fight for home.

How to apply

Please click ‘Apply for Job’ on the advert. You are required to submit a CV and a supporting statement with responses to the points in the About You section of the job description of no more than 350 words each. Please provide specific examples following the STAR format.

• We create change and align behind our strategy
• We enable decision making
• We prioritise diversity and have an inclusive and open mindset

Any applications submitted without a supporting statement will not be considered

About Shelter

Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet everyday millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.

Safeguarding statement

Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.

Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

Secretariat – Reading Students’ Union

Location: University of Reading, Whiteknights Campus, Reading, Berkshire

Salary: £30,981.64 per annum 

Contract: Permanent, full-time (35 hours a week)

'Governance that matters - because students matter'

About Reading Students’ Union

We are a dynamic, student-focused organisation dedicated to empowering students and enhancing their university experience. Our vision is to be a place for everyone, we inspire and empower students to change the world. 

The Role: Secretariat

As our Secretariat Officer, you’ll be the heartbeat of our governance and democratic life. You’ll make sure everything runs smoothly, transparently, and in line with our charitable purpose. From supporting our CEO and Board of Trustees to guiding student leaders, you’ll be our trusted expert.

What You’ll Do

• Act as the go-to expert for governance and democracy queries, providing timely, accurate advice an training  to trustees, student leaders, and staff. You’ll keep us compliant with charity law and sector best practice, and lead governance reviews to drive continuous improvement
• Own the annual cycle of Board and committee business—schedule meetings, prepare agendas, write clear and accurate minutes, and track actions. You’ll also coordinate trustee inductions and training, building strong relationships that enable effective decision-making
• Facilitate democratic processes, from elections to policy development. You’ll guide student candidates and elected officers, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to lead confidently. You’ll design and deliver induction programmes for our elected sabbatical officers, setting them up for success
• Provide high-quality support to the CEO and Senior Management Team—managing diaries, inboxes, and meetings, and ensuring smooth communication across the organisation
• Maintain governance records, policy schedules, manage statutory filings, and oversee the student complaints process
• Identify opportunities to streamline governance systems and introduce digital tools that make processes more accessible and efficient
• Analyse governance and democratic participation data to produce reports that inform strategy and improve engagement. You’ll turn numbers into actionable insights that enhance student representation

About You

You’re passionate about governance and thrive in roles where precision, integrity, and impact matter. You’ll bring a mix of expertise, confidence, and curiosity to help us deliver exceptional governance and democratic processes for our students.

You’ll have:

• Proven experience in governance, democratic processes, or charity administration
• Knowledge of charity law and governance best  practice
• A track record of supporting senior leaders or Boards—minute-taking, meeting coordination, and managing confidential information
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to juggle calendars, inboxes, and complex projects in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including clear, accurate minute writing
• Excellent stakeholder management skills
• Experience designing and delivering training in all things governance

Desirable:

• Experience managing complaints
• Charity experience in an education or student-focused environment
• Knowledge of Student Unions, university structures and student representation systems

Why Join Us?

• Inclusive and supportive team culture
• Flexible working options
• 35 days annual leave including Christmas and Easter closure days
• Professional development opportunities
• Unique working environment in the heart of a vibrant Student’s Union, set on a stunning, green campus

Ready to make an impact?

Apply today and help us bring our ambitious new strategy to life with sector-leading governance!

Committed to equality, celebrating diversity, and embedding sustainability — building an inclusive workplace and a brighter future for all.

Casual Worker / Bank Staff (Substance Misuse)

We are looking for someone mature, motivated and caring to provide tailored person-centred support to our residents in their recovery journey. If you have a heart to see people overcome substance misuse - to reset, recover, and restore their lives - please join our dynamic team.

You will be providing support to men individually or in a group - men who are overcoming substance abuse issues, helping them to achieve their personal goals in all areas of life (behaviour, health, faith etc.). You will therefore have great inter-personal skills and the ability to implement firm but caring boundaries. In addition, you will be responsible for a variety of administrative tasks, including updating records, checking leave and visit applications, and managing the Manor during weekends and overnight.

This is a part-time role on zero hours contract, including occasional evenings and weekends. 

If you're interested in this opportunity and feel you have the skills to help support the work we do, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV along with a covering letter to explain your suitability for the role as outlined in the job description.

Yeldall Manor is a Christian organisation, and this role has an occupational requirement that the successful candidate be a committed and practising Christian able to support residents in their spiritual journey (in accordance with Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010).

Yeldall Manor is committed to safeguard and promote the welfare of its residents. The successful candidate will be subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check. We welcome candidates with lived experience but, if you are in recovery, you must have a minimum of two years’ clean time.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Youth Group Development Officer (Regional)
Reference: NOV20257605
Location: Homebased, Flexible Within Southeast England (Oxfordshire, London, Essex, Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex or Kent)
Hours: Part-Time, 26.25 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £27,123.00 - £28,956.00 Pro Rata
Benefits: Pension Scheme, Life Assurance Scheme, 26 days' Annual Leave (Pro-Rata)

Are you passionate about nature and wanting to make a real difference? We are looking for an inspiring individual to empower and grow our RSPB Youth Group network, offering leadership, advice and support. In this role, you’ll shape the next generation of nature champions by working through volunteers.

What's the role about?

• Providing regional coordination and direction of RSPB Youth Group operations and building volunteer capability in England.
• Working collaboratively to develop high quality initiatives that enable our Youth Groups to inspire new and more diverse support, giving nature a voice in more communities across England.
• Advocating for RSPB Youth Groups and embedding them in area teams, projects and activities as part of our strategic outcomes to tackle the nature and climate emergency.
• Making sure our Youth Groups are following RSPB policies and procedures, complying with legal requirements and working within agreed RSPB Youth Group frameworks.
• Monitoring and evaluating RSPB Youth Group activities to demonstrate the positive impact of RSPB Youth Groups and their contribution to RSPB strategic outcomes.
• Identifying, developing and delivering training and resources required by RSPB Youth Groups to maximise their impact for nature.
• Championing RSPB Youth Groups both internally and externally, influencing and raising awareness of what they do through communications planning to make sure that their contribution is celebrated and valued.
• Lead, manage and support a team of country expert volunteers to assist with some or all the above.

This role will work alongside the Youth Group Development Officer, North England to manage the England network of Youth Groups. The successful candidate will work closely with colleagues across four countries and UKHQ from a range of teams including Area Teams, People Engagement, Youth Mobilisation and Volunteering.

This role will require one evening each month to deliver training and induction sessions. Additionally, you’ll travel up to six times a year, at weekends, to visit RSPB Youth Groups in person.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience:

• Strong understanding of best practice and sector standards in working with young people in a non-formal youth setting, combined with a proven ability to design, develop and successfully deliver a range of activities that engage and inspire groups of young people.
• Knowledge and understanding of volunteering best practice, innovation and sector standards with a strong track record of successfully developing volunteering roles across an organisation.
• Understanding and experience of volunteering through working with volunteers in a management capacity.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence, persuade, guide and negotiate effectively. Skilled in active listening and constructively challenging thinking where appropriate.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify problems and determine areas of improvement. Adept at working collaboratively to develop creative strategies and practical solutions that drive positive change.
• Ability to maintain a strong focus on achieving results while effectively prioritising tasks and resources.
• Experience in designing, developing and delivering youth-focused projects or initiatives that result in measurable/tangible improvements for young people.
• Experience in delivering operational advice, guidance and training to individuals at all levels, while building and maintaining strong, productive stakeholder relationships that drive collaboration and results.

Additional Information

This is a Permanent Part-Time role for 26.25 hours per week.

This role is home based. To cover the required travel across the region, we’re looking for someone based in South East England (Oxfordshire, London, Essex, Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex or Kent).

Closing date: 23:59, Friday 2nd January 2026
We are looking to conduct interviews for this position on Tuesday 13 January 2026.

Interested?

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

This role will require completion of a DBS in addition to the standard pre-employment checks.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is exempt from 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 complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.

No agencies please.

This is an exceptional opportunity to join Belong’s Senior Leadership Team as Director of Policy & Research, a role that sits at the heart of our mission to shape national conversations on cohesion and integration. You will lead Belong’s policy development, research strategy, and national partnerships, ensuring our work is grounded in robust evidence and lived experience. This position offers the chance to influence systemic change, amplify Belong’s voice with policymakers and opinion formers, and ensure our insights drive real-world impact.

As Director of Policy & Research, you will:

• Lead the development of Belong’s policy and research agenda, aligning it with organisational strategy and national priorities.
• Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, briefings, consultation responses, and thought leadership pieces.
• Oversee the design and delivery of research projects, including commissioning and partnership work, ensuring rigor and inclusivity.
• Translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations and advocacy strategies.
• Foster strong collaboration between the Policy & Research team and Programme Delivery team, ensuring insights inform both policy and practice.
• Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, journalists, and opinion formers.
• Represent Belong externally at high-level meetings, events, and in the media, amplifying our impact and reach.
• Develop strategic messaging and narratives that position Belong as a thought leader in social cohesion.
• Support campaigns and public engagement initiatives that promote Belong’s policy goals.
• Contribute to organisational development, strategic planning, and income generation through proposal development and funder engagement.
• Line manage policy and research staff, providing leadership, support, and professional development.

This is a senior leadership role for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and wants to drive systemic change at scale.

About You
We are seeking a strategic and insightful leader with:

• Proven experience in policy development and research leadership.
• Experience working in or with government, think tanks, or advocacy organisations.
• Strong understanding of social policy and influencing processes.
• Knowledge of cohesion, integration, and community relations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including media engagement and public speaking.
• Ability to translate complex research into accessible policy messages.
• Familiarity with participatory and applied research methods.
• Strong strategic thinking and planning abilities.
• Relevant qualification in public policy, social research, or a related field.
• Experience managing teams and budgets, and supporting income generation through fundraising and proposal development.

Personal Qualities

• Passionate about improving cohesion and integration in the UK.
• Strategic and visionary thinker.
• Collaborative and inclusive leader.
• Politically astute and intellectually curious.
• Practical, focused, and reliable.
• Committed to personal and professional development.

Why Join Us?
At Belong, you’ll be part of a dynamic, values-driven team united by a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and connected society. We offer:

• 30 days’ annual leave
• Hybrid working (typically 3 days in the office)
• Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies
• 3% pension contribution
• Opportunities for professional development and growth

Join us and help shape national policy and research that builds stronger, kinder, and more connected communities across the UK.

Salary: £65,000–£70,000
Location: UK-wide (regular travel across England and Wales)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time

About Belong
Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network is the UK’s leading not-for-profit organisation dedicated to building a more united and less divided society. Established in 2019, we work across sectors to strengthen trust, belonging, and resilience in communities. Through research, policy influence, and place-based programmes, we connect people, places, and organisations to share learning and drive systemic change. Our growing membership spans local authorities, charities, civil society, and businesses. Belong is collaborative, evidence-led, and committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Our office is based in Manchester and we offer hybrid working for those able to travel there. However, this role is open UK-wide and can be worked remotely, with regular travel across England and Wales required.

About the Role

Reporting to the Head of Communications, you’ll join a small, creative, and supportive team working to make a real impact for Scotland’s seas. This is a maternity cover position, offering an exciting opportunity to step into a dynamic role where you can quickly make a difference.

You’ll help craft engaging digital content and drive public campaigns that raise awareness of seafood sustainability and marine protection — inspiring both people and policymakers to take action.

A key part of your work will be supporting collaborative external campaigns and finding imaginative ways to grow Open Seas’ reach and influence. From storytelling through film and design to building our online presence, your creativity will help showcase Scotland’s incredible marine life — and the urgent need to protect it.

You’ll contribute across a range of activities, from managing social media and improving SEO, to developing new website content and visual communications.

We’re looking for someone who’s agile, proactive, and comfortable working in a fast-moving environment. You’ll be a positive self-starter and a collaborative team player who enjoys bringing fresh ideas to life and adapting as priorities evolve.

This maternity cover role is a fantastic opportunity to use your digital and creative skills for good — contributing to progressive, solutions-focused campaigns that help shape the future of Scotland’s seas.

About Open Seas

Open Seas is a small environmental charity working in Scotland and beyond to promote environmental recovery in our seas and champion sustainable seafood. Established in 2016, we conduct environmental and policy research to inform consumers, markets and decision-makers as well as generate campaigns to drive positive change for the environmental health of Scotland’s seas. 

Salary: £34,596.75 per annum

Location: Flexible – home or office based

Contract: Fixed term contract ending December 2026

Hours: Full time 37.5 hours

Closing date: Monday the 5th of January at 11:30pm

Are you able to write clearly and accurately drawing on a range of evidence?  Could you use those skills to support our Business Development team with tenders for statutory funding, including preparation work, research, and supporting with bid writing? Then join Shelter as a Business Development Officer and you could soon find yourself playing an important role within our Business Development team

About the role

Responsible for supporting the Business Development Team to generate statutory income and achieve its income target, you will be involved in a range of activities including producing content for bids, horizon scanning and maintaining the pipeline to inform income forecasting.  In collaboration with the Business Development Manager, you will undertake research into local needs and priorities in our service areas with a view to supporting the team in influencing commissioners and driving forward systems change.

About you

To succeed, you’ll be skilled at writing clearly and accurately and drawing on a range of evidence to produce compelling content for tenders, proposals and reports. You’ll be comfortable working on your own initiative or as part of a team, and happy to share your knowledge and skills to play your part in cross-team projects when required. The ability to use Microsoft Office programmes including Word, Excel and Outlook are also a requirement for the role.

Apply to be part of our team and be the change you want to see in society.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave, enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. We are committed to offering fully flexible working to help all employees maintain work-life balance. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.

About the team

The Business Development team (BDT) is the support function that leads, coordinates and supports Shelter business areas working to develop new and existing services to meet Shelter’s strategic goals.

The BDT team sits within the Income Generation directorate and will involve leading the development of high-quality statutory funding tenders, support growth through researching new markets and maintaining a strong pipeline of opportunities and contribute to strategic projects that embed continuous improvement.

You will collaborate with teams across Shelter including Services, High Value Partnerships and Finance, looking to enhance ways of working, building external partnerships that strengthen applications and delivery, along with influencing commissioners and funders to ensure opportunities align with Shelter’s strategic priorities.

How to apply

Please click ‘Apply for Job’ below. You are required to submit a CV and a supporting statement.

The supporting statement should include your responses to the points in the ‘About You’ section of the job description of no more than 300 words each. Please provide specific examples following the STAR format and ensure you demonstrate how you address the behaviours below throughout your responses:

• We work together to achieve our shared purpose
• We learn from our experiences and are open to risk

Any applications submitted without a supporting statement will not be considered

About Shelter

Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet everyday millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.

Safeguarding statement

Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.

Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

Summary

EduSpots is an innovative, dynamic, and community-orientated UK and Ghanaian registered charity which connects, trains, and equips grassroots voluntary educators (named ‘Catalysts’) to drive community-led change through education spaces named ‘Spots’. Our vision is of a world in which communities unite to create the futures they want to see, through education.

Since 2016, through collaborating with over 400 local voluntary community educators and actors – named ‘Catalysts’ – who take a central leadership role in the development of the network, we have supported 50 communities in creating and running community-led and owned education spaces named ‘Spots’’. Together, we are developing a model for a community-led education space with accompanying network engagement that could have global relevance. 

Our Ghana-based team creates collaborative learning opportunities through three leadership programmes for Catalysts which are increasingly facilitated by the EduSpots app: the Ignite, Catalyse and Inspire Mentoring Programmes. These enable the Catalysts to lead EduKidz (early years education), DigLit (digital literacy), EcoSTEM (STEM and environmental education) and Ignite Equity (gender equity) clubs for learners typically aged 3-16, alongside locally designed education projects, reaching over 10,000 learners of all ages annually. 

We are in an exciting period of our development, having more than doubled our income, programme breadth and reach in the last two years, with a recent independent evaluation by Expectation State offering further evidence in support of our model’s outcomes. We have been recently selected for two accelerator programmes, who are supporting us as we consider the scaling potential of our model. In the period, we are aiming to double our network reach, bringing an additional 50 Spots into the network.

We won the Tes International Award in 2018 and the Big Give Supporters’ Choice Award in 2022, and we were recently selected as a finalist for the 2023 Their World Scale-Up Innovation Prize. In 2021, our Founder was a Finalist in the UNESCO-backed $1 million Global Teacher Prize.

We are excited by our future. 

About this role 

The Global Head of Operations is a new role being introduced in 2026 with the core purpose of strengthening systems, processes and strategic delivery across both EduSpots Global and EduSpots Ghana, offering hands-on support to the CEO and wider staff across a range of areas.

In this senior role, you will work closely alongside the CEO, offering her the advice and skills needed to move EduSpots successfully through a complex period of growth in a challenging fundraising context, enabling more learners and Catalysts to participate in a unique community-led model of education, whilst sharing our practice more widely.

We are looking for an organised and empathetic strategic leader, ideally with strong or developing skills across project management, finance, HR and MEL skills and an ability to work independently in a fast moving work environment.

This role has the potential to grow into a Director of Global Operations or Deputy CEO role in time for outstanding candidates, and carries significant organisation-wide responsibility.

Candidates should hold a genuine passion for educational equity, a strong belief in the power of community-led models to transform lives at scale and a high level of flexibility in a fast-changing yet friendly and playful work environment.

Whilst this role is remote, and open to all global candidates, you will need to have understanding and experience of UK law, accounting and policy development, or a strong appetite to build experience in this area quickly.

Main duties and responsibilities 

Systems

• Work with the CEO and staff to proactively strengthen systems and processes across the organisation, including monitoring, evaluation and learning frameworks and operations. 
• Support the wider team with IT, including general skill development, leading the Google Space system. 
• Monitor compliance to organisational policies and lead the quarterly review of the organisational risk register, working with the Ghana Head of Operations. 

Finance 

• Work with the Finance and Admin Officer to produce monthly and quarterly global management accounts, cash flow analysis and to complete the annual audit. 
• Lead the financial planning of the organisation, working with the CEO and the Ghana Head of Operations to create the annual budget. 
• Work with the Ghana Head of Operations to strengthen financial systems, processes, and training across the organisation. 
• Work with the Ghana Head of Operations to prepare budgets for funding bids as needed.
• Work with the grants team to track grant spending and produce consolidated financial reports (including expenditure from the UK and Ghana) for donors. 
• Ensure EduSpots’ new accounting software (QuickBooks) is fully embedded and utilised.
• Oversee bank account management, including payments, checking bank statements, and reviewing bank reconciliations for UK and Ghana.
• Ensure staff payroll (likely to be outsourced) and payments to freelancers / consultants are done accurately and in a timely manner.

HR

• Work alongside the CEO, Head of Operations, Safeguarding and Inclusion Managers  and wider staff to develop strategies to sustain and strengthen a high performing and friendly work culture. 
• Work across the team to strengthen HR and performance management structures, informed by best practice and legal frameworks. 
• Lead the recruitment of staff, consultants and volunteers in the UK (advertising roles, drafting contracts, contacting referees and completing all filing and administration relating to recruitment).
• Onboard new staff, provide training on policies and procedures, and track key information (leave, appraisals, etc) for UK staff. 
• Regularly review and keep the Staff Handbook up to date.
• Depending on skill-set, work with the CEO to lead professional development for staff across the organisation, liaising with trustees and advisory group members.

Administration & Governance

• Manage and maintain databases and our Google Drive system. 
• Ensure compliance with GDPR and adherence to our child safeguarding and protection policy. 
• Maintain insurance renewals, tracking and filing.
• Review and keep up to date all organisational policies in line with current legislation, working with the Trustees and Directors. 
• Assist the CEO in the administration relating to EduSpots’ governance, including board meeting arrangements and minute taking.
• Support the CEO in all ad-hoc tasks that arise, working closely alongside her to ensure the smooth running of the organisation. 

Strategic insight 

• Work closely with the CEO and staff/Catalysts across the organisation to ensure all EduSpots’ decision-making is strategic and in the best interests of the Catalysts, Sparks and Communities we partner with. 

Other areas 

• Depending on experience, you may in time take on management responsibilities for some staff, but this role is principally a systems strengthening and quality improvement role, working closely with the CEO to offer advice and additional capacity. 
• Depending on experience, you may support with grants writing / management and/or community fundraising. Experience of fundraising would be of significant benefit to the organisation in this key leadership role. 

Personal Specification 

Essential 

• Minimum of 7 years’ experience of operations in a small/medium charity context. 
• Self-starter with the ability to hit the ground running and work with minimal supervision with high levels of flexibility.
• Self-motivated, with an ability to motivate and energise others.
• High level strategic understanding, critical thinking and the ability to strengthen systems in a fast-paced high performance environment.
• Excellent communication, both oral and written.
• The ability to thrive and adapt in a fast-paced, creative and impact-driven culture. 
• Strong administrative skills with a high level of attention to detail. 
• Experience in creating user-friendly tools and processes to support project and quality management.
• Experience using Google Suite, with strong Excel skills.
• Tech savvy – ability to learn new tech tools efficiently.
• Experience coordinating others. 
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills with strong empathy and cultural sensitivity 
• Strong personal alignment with the mission, vision and values of EduSpots. 

Highly desirable 

• Experience supporting charity Boards, and working with external bodies including auditors, tax authorities, and other official bodies is highly desirable.
• Experience complying and strong familiarity with UK charity regulations and requirements.
• Experience preparing budgets and financial reports for donors/grants. 
• Experience of working in a cross-cultural team.
• Experience of working with an international charity would be advantageous. 

Please send a tailored covering letter and CV addressed to the CEO Miss Cat Davison by Wednesday 31st December with a hope to meet shortlisted candidates for a first-round interview in the week starting Monday 12th January. 

We are seeking a Community Development Officer to lead a major in-progress project improving recognition, support, and care for people with smell and taste disorders at a local level across England. 

This three-year, volunteer-led programme, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund has achieved significant success in its first eighteen months. We are now recruiting a new postholder to take this strong foundation forward through the next phase of delivery. 

Over the past eighteen months, we have recruited and established a thriving network of volunteers and local groups across England. This momentum is expected to continue. The Community Development Officer will work closely with existing volunteers and groups, primarily remotely, while also attending in-person events and meetings in different parts of England as needed. 

The postholder will lead the ongoing recruitment, training, and support of volunteer groups, working with them to identify opportunities for local outreach and engagement. Together, you will ensure that more people affected by smell and taste disorders access the information, support, and recognition they need, while continuing to raise awareness of these often-unrecognised sensory impairments. 

Our volunteer groups bring together people with lived experience alongside experts from the food, beverage and fragrance sectors, and other relevant fields. 

We are looking for a motivated, forward-thinking individual with experience in leading and inspiring others. You will bring energy, creativity, and excellent communication skills to drive the project forward and help build an innovative, sustainable programme of volunteer-led activity, supporting our volunteers to influence change within their communities. 

You will empower volunteers to play an active role in transforming public understanding of how essential smell and taste are to our lives, whether they are running peer support groups, organising local events, delivering talks in community settings, or representing the charity at information days. 

You will join a small, friendly and ambitious team committed to your professional development as the charity continues to grow. 

If you are passionate about making a difference, enjoy working with people, and want to contribute to a pioneering and collaborative organisation that values and empowers its community, we would love to hear from you. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. 

We are looking for someone who:

• Demonstrates excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust with key stakeholders
• Has experience of supporting the wellbeing of caring professionals, ideally with those in Christian ministry
• Is familiar with the Anglican diocesan structures and culture
• Is a strategic thinker with experience in partnership development
• Shares our vision to see flouishing clergy

This newly created role within St Luke's is supported by a generous grant from the Henry Smith Foundation to develop our wellbeing programmes over the next three years. The Associate Director will engage with dioceses and individual clergy as they explore and embed our wellbeing programmes. 

The post holder will represent St Luke's and our Christian ethos within senior diocesan teams and help shape and deliver our strategic vision for flourishing clergy. This role will support the advancing clergy reflection programme and support dioceses, other networks and communities and Theological Educational Institutions in establishing wellbeing practices.

The role is home based with travel around the UK as required. There will be a requirement to be in London at least once a month for team meetings. 

This role carries an occupational requirement for the postholder to be a practicing Christian, in accordance with Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010. The role involves representing and upholding the Christian ethos of St Luke’s in both internal leadership and external engagement.

Please note the closing date is 5th January 2026 (as per job pack and St Luke's website)

Please see job pack for more information.

Terms: 0.6 FTE, 3 days per week; one year contract, with possibility for extension

Salary: £24,000 - £38,000 per annum, depending on experience

Location:Remote working

Start Date:As soon as possible 

Line Manager:Communications Manager 

Please note that you must have the right to work in the UK. 

Closing Date: 4th January 2026

About BASIC

BASIC is an independent, non-profit think tank working to safeguard humanity and Earth’s ecosystem from nuclear risks and interconnected security threats, for generations to come. Our vision is for a global security consensus founded on multilateralism, the recognition of the indivisibility of security, an adherence to Earth’s planetary boundaries, and the consideration of future generations

For nearly 40 years, we have developed a global reputation for groundbreaking dialogue and incisive thought leadership to strengthen international peace and security. We comprise an intellectually and culturally diverse team of 20 expert-practitioners with deep and wide-ranging institutional experience, headquartered in London with additional presences in Berlin and Rome.  We are independent, receive no core funding from any state, and our project work is funded transparently.

BASIC's approach to resolving contemporary nuclear dynamics is centred on dialogue as both a practice and a philosophy. We interpret dialogue broadly, recognising that meaningful engagement takes many forms: from facilitating direct strategic conversations between adversaries grounded in conflict resolution principles, to developing networks and diplomatic initiatives that build consensus around shared objectives, to shaping the intellectual foundations of policy discourse through rigorous research and thought leadership. 

BASIC is a fast-paced and rewarding environment in which to work, with an exceptionally-positive and inclusive team culture. We have experienced rapid growth over the past decade, and we are well-suited to people who are motivated by our mission, able to work at a sustained pace, keen to develop professionally, and enjoy being part of a collaborative team working on consequential issues. 

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with room for growth

• 30 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays and closure days over the December festive period

• Employer pension contributions of 5% (above the national minimum)

• Flexible working arrangements, with set days (Wednesdays required) but flexibility on hours

• Remote working with option to use co-working space

• 1-2 all-staff in-person team away day per year, as well as other in-person working opportunities

• Opportunities for professional growth and development

• Excellent team culture built on respect, openness, and inclusion

The Role

BASIC is seeking a Digital Communications Officer with exceptional design sensibility and meticulous attention to detail. This role is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the organisation's digital presence through clear, consistent, and effective communication with key audiences. The Digital Communications Officer will support the implementation of strategic communication objectives, promote organisational priorities, and uphold the integrity and professionalism of BASIC's online profile.

Reporting to the Communications Manager and working closely with BASIC's programme teams, the postholder will develop, deliver, and analyse the impact of digital content across our online platforms — including BASIC's website and microsites, social media channels (LinkedIn, X/Twitter, BlueSky), and email communications.

Essential Requirements

The ideal candidate will be a fluent English speaker with strong copy-editing and proofreading skills. Professional-grade capabilities in graphic design, web design, newsletter software, and audio/video production are essential for creating compelling online content. We are looking for someone who combines technical fluency with creative flair and storytelling, and who understands how to engage diverse audiences across multiple digital platforms.

Key Responsibilities:

Digital Strategy and Content Management

• Work with the Communications Manager to develop, maintain, and refine BASIC's digital communications strategy and associated workplans

• Ensure consistency in the presentation of programme communications strategies and accessibility for all staff

• Monitor and evaluate the impact of communications activities, identifying successes, lessons learned, and opportunities for improvement

• Prepare communications plans for conferences, speaking engagements, international engagements, and campaigns

Website and Digital Platforms

• Commission, edit, and publish articles and commentaries for BASIC's website

• Maintain and update BASIC's website, microsites, and online presence (including Wikipedia and directory listings)

• Ensure all digital content is accurate, well-formatted, proofread, and on-brand

Social Media Management

• Develop and maintain a content calendar for BASIC's social media accounts (LinkedIn, BlueSky, X/Twitter)

• Create engaging, visually compelling, and timely social media content that advances BASIC's communications objectives

• Monitor social media engagement and use analytics to inform strategy

Email Communications and Newsletters

• Produce BASIC's regular newsletters, ensuring they are newsworthy, well-designed, and properly formatted

• Develop compelling headlines and select impactful imagery

• Use graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) to enhance visual appeal

Media Relations Support

• Develop, maintain, and update media contact lists and databases

• Work with the Communications Manager to document and refine media engagement processes

• Prepare press releases, ensuring they are compelling, accurate, and properly formatted

• Compile monthly digests of nuclear policy and security-related media coverage (as required)

Content Creation and Design

• Create visual, audio, and video content using professional-grade tools to tell BASIC's story effectively

• Ensure all imagery is well-cropped, edited, and appropriately branded

• Liaise with staff to identify the most impactful content for external communications

Additional Responsibilities (as required)

• Prepare programme Q&As, one-pagers, briefing notes, and key messages

• Support organisation of media training sessions

• Liaise with external contributors for website content

Please note: This list is not exhaustive. Other tasks may be required as they arise.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Degree in marketing, visual communications, journalism, or related field, or equivalent professional experience
• Proven experience in a digital communications or media role
• Experience in audio-visual storytelling such as video work or podcasting
• Excellent written and spoken English, with strong copy-editing and proofreading skills
• Professional-grade skills in graphic design, web design, and audio/video production
• Demonstrated ability to manage websites, social media channels, and digital campaigns
• Strong analytical skills, including experience using digital analytics to inform strategy
• Familiarity with email marketing or CRM platforms (e.g., Mailchimp)
• Technically fluent, with creative and storytelling flair
• Highly organised, collaborative, and attentive to detail
• Ability to balance multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Desirable:

• Postgraduate qualification in a relevant field
• Experience working in a think tank, NGO, research, or public policy organisation
• Experience in media relations or crisis communications
• Knowledge of global security, defence, or nuclear policy issues