Coo jobs

Job Title: Head of Health, Safety & Compliance

Reporting To: Chief Operating Officer 

Direct Reports: 2

Salary Range: Up to £65,000

Contract Type: Permanent 

Working days/hours per week: 35 per week, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm

Location: Hybrid with travel to London sites (Old Street, Canary Wharf, Poplar, Acton, Deptford, Enfield) and other UK sites when required. 

Requirements: As part of our safer recruitment policy, we do ask questions regarding unspent criminal records.

Our Vision: A UK where “No good food goes to waste”. 

The Felix Project and FareShare have recently merged to form the UK's largest food redistribution charity. Its vision is a UK where good food is never wasted, and nobody goes hungry. 

The organisation rescues high quality edible surplus food, from across the food industry and gets it to over 8,000 organisations across the UK who are working to strengthen communities and improve lives. 

The charity manages seven depots across London, Suffolk, Merseyside and Hampshire and works with 16 network partners who operate a further 26 regional depots across the UK. 

Over the next year our ambition is to rescue enough food nationally to provide nearly 200 million meals, turning an environmental problem into social good with measurable impact for people, planet, and the economy.

Purpose of the Job 

The Head of Health, Safety & Compliance will lead the development and delivery of the functional strategy through a cascade of the overall business strategy by ensuring company compliance with relevant health, safety, environmental and Food Safety legislation. Development of necessary policies and procedures and leads the ownership of establishing a safe working environment for colleagues and local communities. Continuous improvement and execution of programmes to provide and achieve practise.

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Use established NEBOSH/ IOSH Plan-do-check-act principles to drive safety improvements and leadership 
• Environmental Health & Safety decisions in line with local guidance
• Liaises with external and internal key stakeholders and HSE experts and food supply leaders within partner organisations
• Ensure Safety Management Systems are up to date, relevant and manages risk appropriately, and in accordance with agreed standards
• Process ownership to ensure all significant and major SHE risks on site are quantified, managed and validated
• Monitor departmental KPI’s and challenge improvement when required to ensure targets are achieved and improved
• Develops and leads the safety, health and environment strategy and plans for the site to ensure best in class processes and policies and developing a culture of compliance and operational ownership that are regularly reviewed and updated
• Completes regular Health, Safety and Environmental audits, evaluating practices, procedures, and facilities to assess risk and adherence to the law
• Prepares and schedules training to cover emergency procedures, workplace safety and other relevant topics
• Ensures inspections and servicing of plant, equipment and machinery is completed in compliance with relevant legislation
• Maintain records of discharge of or employee exposure to hazardous waste and/or pollutants, as required and monitor all other environmental risks to colleagues and the local community
• First Aid management including training, viewing and planning coverage, ordering and auditing of stock
• Provide functional leadership and oversight (quality check) for investigation of accidents and injuries. Coordination of incident files and the preparation of material for hearings and insurance investigations
• Ensure the operational process and production of finished goods are appropriately controlled via HACCP, to ensure compliance with food safety 
• Ensure that technical governance is in place to deliver compliance with respect to internal, external and legal requirements
• Investigations into key deviations from process and specification, initiating appropriate action to bring the process back into control
• Leading the engagement of a Food Safety Culture
• Building of trust and credibility in how we operate, through significant on-site presence 
• Visibility in working with food safety teams in food supply partners to create early adoption of process and policy ways of working.

Job Title: Regional Operations Manager 
Location: North of England (flexible – with travel across delivery areas)
Reports to: Chief Operating Officer  
Contract Type: 2 years fixed term contract, Full-Time
Salary: £40,000 pa
Start Date:  March / April 2026 
 

Role Purpose 
The Regional Operations Manager will be responsible for the effective day-to-day delivery of The Skill Mill programmes, ensuring seamless coordination between The Skill Mill Supervisors, local Youth Justice Services, Pathways Advisors, and the Commercial Sales Manager. The role will focus on operational excellence, stakeholder engagement, and the smooth running of activities that contribute to The Skill Mill’s social impact. 
 

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Coordination 

- Oversee and support The Skill Mill Supervisors to ensure the delivery of high-quality, safe, and impactful work programmes. 
- Act as the central point of contact between Supervisors, Youth Justice Services, Pathways Advisors, and the Commercial Sales Manager. 
- Monitor daily operations and resolve any operational challenges quickly and effectively. 
- Ensure all work complies with organisational policies, procedures, and health & safety regulations. 

Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Management:

- Build strong, collaborative relationships with local Youth Justice Services and Pathways Advisors to support young people’s progression. 
- Work closely with the Commercial Sales Manager to align operational delivery with commercial project requirements and client expectations. 
- Represent The Skill Mill at operational and partnership meetings. 

Performance Monitoring & Reporting:

- Track and monitor project progress, ensuring that targets for social outcomes and commercial delivery are met. 
- Prepare and present operational performance reports to the Senior Management Team. 
- Implement systems to measure quality, efficiency, and impact. 
 

Team Support & Development 

- Support and mentor Supervisors to maintain high standards of practice and delivery. 
- Identify training needs and facilitate professional development opportunities. 
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and accountable team culture. 
 

Person Specification:

Essential 

- Experience in operational or project management, ideally in a social enterprise, youth justice, or community development setting. 
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills. 
- Proven ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders and workstreams. 
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and work under pressure. 
- Knowledge of safeguarding, youth justice, and/or working with vulnerable young people. 
- Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office and project management tools. 
- Commitment to The Skill Mill’s mission and values. 

Desirable 

- Experience managing commercial contracts or community-based service delivery. 
- Understanding of outcomes-based commissioning. 
- Health & Safety qualification or equivalent experience. 
 

Key Relationships 

- The Skill Mill Supervisors 
- Youth Justice Services 
- Pathways Advisors 
- Commercial Sales Manager 
- Senior Management Team 
- External partners and clients 

Job Title: Regional Operations Manager 
Location: Midlands (flexible – with travel across delivery areas)
Reports to: Chief Operating Officer  
Contract Type: 2 years fixed term contract, Full-Time
Salary: £40,000 pa
Start Date:  March / April 2026 
 

Role Purpose 
The Regional Operations Manager will be responsible for the effective day-to-day delivery of The Skill Mill programmes, ensuring seamless coordination between The Skill Mill Supervisors, local Youth Justice Services, Pathways Advisors, and the Commercial Sales Manager. The role will focus on operational excellence, stakeholder engagement, and the smooth running of activities that contribute to The Skill Mill’s social impact. 
 

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Coordination 

- Oversee and support The Skill Mill Supervisors to ensure the delivery of high-quality, safe, and impactful work programmes. 
- Act as the central point of contact between Supervisors, Youth Justice Services, Pathways Advisors, and the Commercial Sales Manager. 
- Monitor daily operations and resolve any operational challenges quickly and effectively. 
- Ensure all work complies with organisational policies, procedures, and health & safety regulations. 

Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Management:

- Build strong, collaborative relationships with local Youth Justice Services and Pathways Advisors to support young people’s progression. 
- Work closely with the Commercial Sales Manager to align operational delivery with commercial project requirements and client expectations. 
- Represent The Skill Mill at operational and partnership meetings. 

Performance Monitoring & Reporting:

- Track and monitor project progress, ensuring that targets for social outcomes and commercial delivery are met. 
- Prepare and present operational performance reports to the Senior Management Team. 
- Implement systems to measure quality, efficiency, and impact. 
 

Team Support & Development 

- Support and mentor Supervisors to maintain high standards of practice and delivery. 
- Identify training needs and facilitate professional development opportunities. 
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and accountable team culture. 
 

Person Specification:
Essential 

- Experience in operational or project management, ideally in a social enterprise, youth justice, or community development setting. 
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills. 
- Proven ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders and workstreams. 
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and work under pressure. 
- Knowledge of safeguarding, youth justice, and/or working with vulnerable young people. 
- Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office and project management tools. 
- Commitment to The Skill Mill’s mission and values. 

Desirable 

- Experience managing commercial contracts or community-based service delivery. 
- Understanding of outcomes-based commissioning. 
- Health & Safety qualification or equivalent experience. 

Key Relationships 

- The Skill Mill Supervisors 
- Youth Justice Services 
- Pathways Advisors 
- Commercial Sales Manager 
- Senior Management Team 
- External partners and clients 
 

About The Skill Mill:

The Skill Mill is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background.

The Skill Mill is an innovative social enterprise dedicated to transforming lives and communities. We provide employment opportunities for young people with criminal convictions, equipping them with skills and experience through delivering high-quality environmental services, such as grounds maintenance, horticulture, and flood prevention. Our mission is to reduce reoffending, enhance employability, and create sustainable social and environmental impact.

Social Finance is an ambitious non-profit that designs, funds and scales solutions to complex social problems. Our vision is a fairer world where together we unleash the potential of people and communities. We work with governments, funders, communities and the social sector to tackle some of the most persistent challenges facing society in the UK.

Our multidisciplinary team brings together experience from the public, private and charity sectors. We are known for our collaborative and intellectually curious culture and for delivering systems change, improving how entire systems operate so they produce better, lasting outcomes.

One of our most significant initiatives is IPS Grow, which supports the national expansion of Individual Placement and Support (IPS) employment services across England. IPS is an evidence-based approach that helps people experiencing severe mental illness, addiction and other health challenges find and sustain competitive employment with tailored support.

IPS Grow works with commissioners, healthcare providers and delivery partners to expand high-quality IPS services, improve quality and learning across the system, and ensure the data and evidence behind IPS continue to demonstrate its impact. Scaling IPS has been a priority for Social Finance since 2015 and continues to be an integral part of our work today.

With IPS Grow transitioning from a fast‑growing initiative to a mature organisation with expanding reach and influence, we are now looking for an experienced Chief Operating Officer to join the IPS Grow and Social Finance Senior Leadership Team.

The COO will provide strategic leadership across IPS Grow’s operational infrastructure, ensuring the organisation has the systems, processes and capabilities required to deliver impact at scale. You will strengthen financial oversight, resource planning and risk management while helping develop IPS Grow’s data and digital capability. The role will also help shape the organisational structures and culture needed to support sustainable growth.

We are looking for a senior operational leader with experience in finance and the non-profit or publicly funded sectors, ideally with a track record of helping organisations scale. You will bring strong financial literacy, sound strategic judgement and the ability to build effective operational frameworks in complex environments.

You will be a collaborative partner across IPS Grow and the wider Social Finance organisation, building trusted relationships, bringing clarity to operational challenges and fostering a strong “one team” culture across a distributed team.

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the next phase of IPS Grow’s development. If this resonates with you, we would be delighted to hear from you.

To download a full copy of the candidate brief and learn more about the role, please click the ‘Apply’ button, where you will be redirected to the website of our recruitment partner, Tall Roots.

Applications should include a CV and covering letter responding to the following questions:

1. What is motivating you to become our new Chief Operating Officer for IPS Grow? (200 words)
2. Given what you have read about us so far, what do you believe would make an effective Chief Operating Officer for IPS Grow? (200 words)
3. Please describe your experience ensuring an organisation had the right systems, processes or capabilities in place to use data effectively. What was your role and what difference did this make? (250 words)
4. Please tell us about a time when you built strong partnerships across teams or organisations to deliver a shared goal. What approach did you take and what was the outcome? (250 words)

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.

Bedford Foodbank is an independent charity operating as a member of the Trussell Trust network of foodbanks. We employ 2 paid full time and 5 part time staff and are supported by 120 volunteers each week. The mission of Bedford Foodbank is to provide emergency food and support to individuals and families in crisis, ensuring that no one in the community goes hungry. The vision is to be a beacon of hope and support for those facing financial difficulties providing a minimum of 3 days of emergency food and support.

Role Purpose

The Operations Director role is responsible for the effective day-to-day management of the foodbank, ensuring sustainable service delivery while driving income generation and fundraising growth. You will oversee operations, fundraising strategy, partnerships, and compliance, ensuring the charity can meet increasing community need in a financially sustainable way with a passion for tackling poverty.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all operational aspects of the foodbank, ensuring efficient, safe, and compassionate service delivery.
• Oversee logistics including food sourcing, storage, distribution, and volunteer deployment.
• Deliver a fundraising and grant writing strategy to ensure long-term financial sustainability
• Monitor operational performance and report regularly to the Trustees.
• Managing employees and volunteers to ensure they are supported, motivated, and aligned with the charity’s mission
• Build strong relationships with local authorities, faith groups, businesses, schools, and other charities.
• Represent the foodbank at events, networks, and public forums to raise profile and funds.
• Maintain compliance with all policies and procedures including Health and Safety and Safeguarding

Person Specification

• Demonstrable success in fundraising, income generation and grant writing.
• Passionate about tackling poverty with empathy for people from disadvantaged, marginalised or socially excluded backgrounds
• Understanding and sympathetic approach to clients, volunteers and referral agencies
• Running a small to medium size charity operation.
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of a foodbank.

· Willingness to support and promote the Christian values of Bedford Foodbank

Requirements:

· Right to work in the UK

· Clean UK driving license

· Some evening and weekend work required

 

 

Use of AI in applications

We recognise that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support aspects of their application – such as grammar, formatting, or drafting. We understand that using AI tools in this way can help you express your strengths more clearly. However, your final submission must be a genuine, accurate reflection of your own skills, experience, and understanding of the role. 

To support integrity and transparency in our recruitment process, we ask that you include a brief note explaining where and how AI tools were used. Applications that appear overly generic, inconsistent with interview performance, or rely heavily on generative AI without clear attribution may raise concerns during the selection process.

Equal employment opportunity

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race, or is disadvantaged by conditions or requirements which cannot be shown to be justifiable.

The Finance and Business Operations Director will lead VAST’s financial and operational strategy, ensuring robust financial management, effective HR and IT systems, compliance with Health and Safety, and the efficient running of The Dudson Centre.

The postholder will act as Company Secretary, overseeing governance and compliance, and also serve as the organisation’s Money Laundering Reporting Officer.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the role contributes to strategic planning and organisational development, as well as supporting VAST’s day-to-day delivery.

What we're looking for

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, etc.)
• Significant experience in financial management and business operations in the VCSE sector.
• Strong leadership and strategic planning skills
• Knowledge of charity finance, governance, and compliance.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to travel locally and work occasional evenings/weekends.

Join a charity rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission and play a central role in our senior leadership team.
This is a rare opportunity to use your finance and people leadership expertise to help shape the future of a well-established, values-driven organisation.

Shared Lives South West delivers long-term and short break care and support across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, enabling people to live fulfilling lives within family homes and communities. We are proud of the quality of our work and the positive, relational culture we have built as an organisation, and we are ambitious about what comes next.

As Deputy Chief Executive, you will join our senior leadership team in a pivotal organisation-wide role leading finance, people and core business functions. Working closely with the Chief Executive and Leadership Team, you will help strengthen financial stewardship, support a thriving and sustainable people culture, and ensure the organisation remains resilient, well-governed and effective.

This is a broad and influential leadership role offering both strategic responsibility and meaningful organisational impact. You will contribute to long-term planning and decision-making, provide leadership depth and continuity, and deputise for the Chief Executive when required.

We are looking for an experienced senior leader with strong organisational finance expertise and a good understanding of people leadership and workforce practice. You may come from the charity, public or wider values-led sector, and you will bring a collaborative, grounded leadership style alongside professional rigour.

For the right candidate, this role offers the opportunity to make a significant contribution to an already high-performing organisation while continuing to grow your own leadership portfolio in a supportive and purpose-driven environment.

For full details and to apply please see Applicant Pack attached. 

Other organisations may refer to roles like this as Deputy CEO, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Finance Director, Director of Finance and Operations, or Executive Director of Corporate Services.

About us 

CASPA encourages autistic pride and supports autistic individuals to have fun, learn life skills, and make safe and inclusive community connections. 

Our vision is to build a society in which autistic individuals feel understood and empowered to be their full self and live their best life. Our values are: 

Acceptance – We are inclusive and celebrate our differences. 

Support – We are supportive, caring and kind. 

Community – We connect people and build community. 

Trust – We earn trust and create safety. 

Communication – We listen to others and communicate honestly. 

About the role 

We are looking for an experienced Operations Officer to join our HR and Operations team.

You’ll help CASPA run smoothly, grow and adapt while supporting our neurodiverse community. 

What you’ll do: 

• Help deliver important infrastructure projects. 

• Make sure day-to-day operations run efficiently. 

• Keep processes running smoothly so our teams can focus on supporting our members and staff. 

• Bring a strategic focus on accessibility and a great user experience for everyone. 

Salary Band: £27,300 - £30,030 per annum FTE (Depending on experience)
Contract Type:  12 month fixed-term contract 

Reports to: Chief Operating Officer 

Working Pattern:21 - 28 hours per week. 

Location: Oakley House, Bromley (Mondays and Tuesdays). Remote working (Wednesdays to Fridays). With frequent travel in Bromley, as required. Potential attendance may be required at events and meetings outside regular working hours on an ad hoc basis. 

About you 

We’re looking for someone who is 

• Resilient and solution-focused 

• Able to work independently and as part of a team 

• Proactive and people-focused in communications with colleagues and staff 

• Takes pride in delivering high-quality work 

• Eager to learn and develop in the role 

You are also someone who shares our way of working: 

Committed – We are committed to CASPA’s mission and our work. 

Learning – We share knowledge, learn from others to grow our skills, and support others to grow. 

Proactive – We take action, problem solve and “muck in” where needed. 

Organised – We plan and manage our time, tasks and responsibilities. 

Optimistic – We think positively, encourage fun, and promote autistic Pride. 

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. 

We are keen to attract those with lived experience of autism. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age and disability. 

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Salary: £45,068 to £51,242 (Negotiable)

37 hours per week – Flexible throughout the week, including some evenings and weekends

We are seeking to appoint a Chief Executive Officer with a proven commitment to survivor-led practice, outstanding organisational leadership capability, and relevant therapeutic competence, to provide strategic and inspirational leadership for the organisation’s future.

Leeds Survivor Led Crisis Service (LSLCS) exists to provide compassionate, person-centred, trauma-informed crisis support to people across Leeds and West Yorkshire.  Founded in 1999 by individuals with lived experience of mental health crisis, the organisation has grown to deliver a range of services for adults, children and young people while remaining rooted in survivor leadership and empowerment. LSLCS has a long history of innovation and excellence; receiving multiple national awards.

The CEO holds overarching responsibility for the current service provisions, with the support of operational directors and service managers.  LSLCS challenges and shapes current practices; aligned with the needs of those accessing crisis services, with a strong emphasis on gaining and reviewing service user and team feedback to inform decision-making.  The CEO must be able to review feedback openly, regularly and with genuine curiosity in shaping the future of the organisation.

The CEO provides strategic leadership to ensure that LSLCS continues to deliver high-quality, values-led crisis services.  Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO ensures the organisation operates in alignment with its survivor-led ethos, trauma-informed principles, and person-centred philosophy.  The post-holder champions the mission of LSLCS, strengthens its culture, and maintains the organisation’s reputation as a trusted and innovative provider of crisis support.

The CEO must ensure that the organisation’s governance is compliant with Charity Commission requirements, contractual obligations and all other relevant legislation and guidance, and works closely with the Operations Director (Central Services) to ensure the organisation’s financial sustainability and the appropriate, responsible use of its resources.

Liberty is seeking a Facilities and Compliance Manager to deliver high-quality, proactive support across data and IT, property, facilities, and health and safety. This role underpins the organisation’s operations and ensures we can deliver our external mission as effectively as possible.

The successful candidate will have experience in a similar role and be motivated by improving systems and processes. They will have strong attention to detail, a proactive, can-do attitude, and excellent written communication skills, with the ability to develop clear, user-friendly policies and procedures from scratch. The post-holder will thrive on providing a mix of practical hands-on facilities and infrastructure delivery (including IT and Health and Safety), and project/contractor management.

You will have a strong commitment to Liberty’s anti-oppression values and strategy.

Liberty fully embraces flexible working and is committed to employee development. We aim to encourage people from all backgrounds to work with us and are particularly interested in hearing from people from minority backgrounds and all socio-economic sections of society.

The deadline for applications is 9am Monday 6 April 2026

Applications received after this deadline will not be considered.

Please be aware that we do not accept CVs for this role. All applicants must complete the application form to apply.

First round interviews will be held online on Thursday 23 April 2026

Second round interview will be held in person on Thursday 30 April 2026

Apply via the job board on our website. 

Andover, Hampshire | Hybrid working
£62,000–£72,000 bonus car
 
Shape the future of a respected national body at the heart of a technically complex, safety-critical industry.
 
The British Swimming Pool Federation sits at the centre of the UK wet leisure industry. It safeguards standards, supports businesses and provides a unified voice for a sector that underpins public safety, professional integrity and economic activity across the UK.
 
Although associated with leisure and wellbeing, pools and spas require rigorous standards and responsible regulation. When those standards are strong, trust is protected and harm is prevented. The Federation plays a critical role in maintaining professionalism and credibility across the sector.
 
Representing over 300 member businesses (through BISHTA and SPATA) and overseeing the delivery of SPATEX, the industry’s flagship exhibition, BSPF works with government, standards bodies and international partners to influence policy and shape the sector’s long-term direction.
 
Following a long and successful tenure, the current Managing Director will be handing over to a successor, creating a rare opportunity to step into a sector-shaping leadership role.
 
The Opportunity
 
BSPF has strong foundations, trusted relationships and financial stability. The opportunity now is to strengthen and extend that position by growing membership, reinforcing commercial resilience and ensuring continued relevance in a changing commercial and regulatory landscape.
 
This is a leadership role with genuine ownership. You will shape long-term direction, safeguard financial sustainability and represent the industry with authority, working closely with Boards and Committees while leading a capable team within a lean structure. You will be closely involved in both strategic direction and operational delivery, ensuring plans translate into measurable progress.
 
The breadth of the role requires energy, sound judgement and disciplined prioritisation. You will move confidently between strategy and execution, diplomacy and decision-making, commercial focus and sector representation. The role is visible and carries real responsibility.
 
For the right leader, it offers meaningful responsibility and lasting impact.
 
Key Areas of Focus
 
• Setting clear strategic direction and maintaining organisational alignment
• Strengthening financial sustainability and supporting the continued success of SPATEX
• Driving membership growth and retention while enhancing the value proposition for SMEs
• Enabling effective governance through strong relationships with Boards and Committees
• Acting as principal representative of the UK wet leisure industry
• Leading and developing a small, talented, multi-skilled team
 
About You
 
You are an experienced senior leader who combines commercial awareness with sound judgement and professional credibility, whether from within the sector or from a related membership, regulated or public sector environment.
 
You bring:
 
• Experience working with Boards or membership-led organisations
• Accountability for financial performance and income sustainability
• A track record of strengthening membership engagement or commercial development
• Confidence operating under scrutiny and navigating diverse stakeholder views
• A pragmatic, hands-on approach alongside strategic thinking
 
This role suits a leader who values responsibility and the opportunity to shape direction. You are motivated by long-term impact and institutional credibility, and you are comfortable operating in complex environments.
 
You might be an experienced deputy ready for a first Managing Director role, or an established leader seeking meaningful influence and scope. Either way, you are looking for a role where you can invest your energy and make a lasting contribution.
 
Working Pattern and Reward
 
The role is full time with a hybrid working arrangement, combining time in the Andover office, home working and UK and occasional European travel.
 
A competitive salary and benefits package is offered, reflecting the responsibility, visibility and influence of the role.
 
If you are ready to take ownership of a respected national body and strengthen its long-term impact, we welcome your application.
 
You may have experience of the following: Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Executive Director, General Manager, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Head of Operations, Director of Strategy, Commercial Director, Membership Director, Sector Lead, Industry Association Director, Governance Director.
 
REF-227 245

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AND OPERATIONS

Strategic Finance and Operations Director leading finance, HR, IT and compliance for a national lifesaving charity and its commercial subsidiaries.

• Location: Worcester / Hybrid (2–3 days a week in office)
• Benefits: 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays and discretionary birthday day off; private health and life assurance; Life Assurance Scheme; Enhanced Society Sick Pay

Are you a strategic finance leader ready to shape the future of a national charity? Do you have the experience and will to lead finance, HR, IT and compliance with authority and clarity?

Charisma Charity Recruitment has partnered with Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) to appoint a new Director of Finance and Operations. RLSS UK saves lives by leading in water safety education, lifeguarding and drowning prevention, with a thriving commercial directorate and a new 2025–2030 strategy.

Reporting to the CEO and leading the corporate services directorate, you will hold accountability for financial stewardship across the charity and its subsidiaries, ensuring strong governance, regulatory compliance and operational resilience.

You will:

• Lead financial strategy, budgeting, reserves and risk to secure long-term sustainability
• Prepare annual accounts under Charity SORP and report at Board level
• Lead HR, IT, compliance and facilities, driving performance and accountability
• Strengthen corporate governance and regulatory relationships
• Contribute as a key SLT member, shaping strategy and major projects

We are seeking a qualified accountant (ACCA/CIMA/ACA) with senior charity experience, commercial acumen and the credibility to operate at Board level.

For more information, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Executive Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

Closing date: Tuesday 24 March 2026
Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by: EOD Thursday 2 April 2026
Interviews with RLSS UK: w/c 13 April 2026 onwards

Help build the operational backbone of a nationally growing, trauma-informed youth arts organisation.
We’re looking for a thoughtful, values-led Operations Manager to strengthen our people, systems and sustainability as we scale.

Comics Youth is entering a pivotal stage of growth. As we approach our tenth year, expand our Scotland SCIO in Dundee, develop work in London, and work towards Arts Council England NPO status, we are investing in the infrastructure that will sustain our long-term impact.

We are not a corporate machine. We are a creative, relational organisation powered by a fierce belief that young people deserve space to tell their stories. Growth for us isn’t about becoming slick — it’s about becoming sustainable.

This role exists to help us strengthen our structure without losing our magic.

The Role

This is not simply an administrative post. It is a senior operational leadership role rooted in care, clarity and accountability.

Importantly, this is not a COO position. The Managing Director retains overall strategic leadership, governance accountability and final responsibility for income generation. The Operations Manager focuses on strengthening workforce systems, delivery oversight and organisational readiness within a shared leadership structure.

You will:

• Lead HR systems and workforce processes

• Line-manage the Project Manager

• Act as Safeguarding Co-Lead

• Oversee programme delivery, reporting and KPIs

• Maintain compliance, risk management and operational systems

• Contribute to funding bids and commissioned tenders

We are currently largely grant-reliant (not yet contract-heavy), so this role is about building readiness and strengthening infrastructure rather than managing complex commissioned contracts from day one.

Our Culture

Our core week runs Tuesday–Saturday, reflecting when young people need us most.

We offer flexible working wherever possible.
Every staff member receives a wellbeing grant and eight paid counselling sessions.
We prioritise reflective supervision and psychologically safe practice.
We do not believe burnout is a badge of honour.

We are a small team doing nationally recognised work. Collaboration, honesty and mutual care matter deeply here.

Who We’re Looking For

You may thrive in this role if you:

• Have experience in operations, HR, service management or organisational development

• Have contributed to funding bids or tenders

• Understand safeguarding and safer working practices

• Can balance accountability with empathy

• Care deeply about equity, anti-oppressive practice and access

You do not need to meet every single criterion perfectly. We are a learning organisation. We are more interested in alignment, integrity and reflective practice than a perfectly linear CV.

If you enjoy building strong systems around creative, purpose-driven work — and want to help shape the next phase of a nationally growing organisation — we would love to hear from you.