Courses and community engagement officer jobs

The Difference is seeking a Director of Engagement and School Partnerships to grow our traded relationships with schools and sector partners, and build the systems and team to deepen impact at scale.

This senior role ensures partnerships, delivery and learning work as one coherent cycle from first contact to long-term partnership.

Key Responsibilities

• Grow traded relationships : build and convert a pipeline of trusts and LAs into our programmes
• Build a sequenced pipeline :turn engagements from press and events into a journey towards deeper work
• Design the partner journey :map and improve from first contact through onboarding and renewal
• Develop CRM and systems :track relationships and income with discipline
• Org-wide leadership :senior ambassador and leadership team member

About The Difference Every day, 5,500 children are suspended from England's schools, doubling their NEET likelihood by 24. The Difference tackles this through whole school inclusion  training leaders, researching what works and turning insights into policy. Our vision: lost learning falling nationally by 2030.

About You: Essential

• Shared values and commitment to the children most affected by lost learning
• Credibility with schools, trusts and local authorities
• Experience designing end-to-end partner journeys
• Hitting income targets while staying honest about quality
• Knowledge of school improvement or inclusion to work with programme experts
• Building routines that help a team deliver consistently
• CRM or pipeline experience to drive decisions
• Managing relationships :expectations, risks and progression
• Strategic judgement :balancing delivery against long-term value
• Managing people and building a culture of clarity, care and accountability
• Critical friend in a senior team

Desired

• Background in partnerships, engagement, account management or business development
• Experience scaling a programme while protecting quality
• Experience building business cases for school-sector audiences
• Experience designing renewal or progression models
• Experience with schools, trusts, LAs or education charities
• Insight into children affected by exclusion, poverty or SEN

Please see the attached Job Description for full details. We are committed to building a diverse team and encourage applications from under-represented groups. All applications assessed with names and protected characteristics redacted.

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £65,000 per annum

Hours per week: 35 hours

Annual Leave: 25 days plus 8 bank holidays

Role Description

The COO is the Cathedral’s principal member of staff and has responsibility for the overall operational performance and administration of the organisation, its assets and its people. Appointed by the Chapter and accountable to them through the Dean, the COO works with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to develop and implement strategy and policy, ensure effective governance and compliance, manage the business functions of the Cathedral and monitor its overall progress and development.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the development of the Cathedral’s overall strategy to reflect the Cathedral’s Vision and Values.
• Ensure the effective implementation of the Cathedral’s masterplan and successfully deliver outcomes through the effective performance management of goals and objectives.
• Secure financial sustainability, achieve growth and optimise the efficient use of resources through effective short, medium and long term planning.

Safeguarding

• Work closely with the Dean, the Cathedral Safeguarding Committee, Chapter Safeguarding Lead and the Safeguarding Officer to develop and deliver the Cathedral’s safeguarding strategy.
• Act as a role model in upholding safeguarding policies and embedding a healthy safeguarding culture across Cathedral life.
• Negotiate, implement and continually review the Service Level Agreement with the Diocesan Board of Finance and the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer.
• Ensure compliance with current safeguarding legislation and national guidance, fostering an environment where safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

Staff and Volunteers

• Ensure recruitment, training and HR management of staff and volunteers adhere to the Safer Recruitment policies of the Church of England and meet the needs of the Cathedral.
• Develop a workplace culture and ethos that reflects the Cathedral’s values and enables and empowers staff and volunteers.
• Act as a role model for effective people management, supporting, developing, and constructively challenging others while encouraging continuous professional development.
• Foster a collegiate, open, and collaborative environment across the Cathedral.
• Champion diversity and inclusivity within the Cathedral community, providing opportunity and support for all.

Cathedral Compliance and Operational Management

• Ensure the effective running and forward planning of Chapter and other governance committees, including compliance with the Constitution and Statutes.
• Ensure trustees and others in governance positions are properly inducted and trained including in safeguarding.
• Ensure that the Cathedral meets all legislative regulations and complies with ecclesiastical and charity laws.
• Be accountable for reporting to the Charity Commission and Companies House.
• Work with the Chief Finance Officer to ensure that the strategic plan is supported by a robust, multi-year financial plan aligned with long-term objectives.
• Work with the Visitor Experience Manager to increase income generation, establishing a growth plan with the Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn Project.
• Work with the Architect and Facilities Manager to ensure the Cathedral meets its statutory and legal obligations relating to heritage, ecclesiastical and listed buildings in its care.
• Work with the Facilities Manager to ensure the Cathedral meets its statutory and legal requirements in relation to its properties and responsibilities as a landlord.
• Ensure effective management of Health and Safety across the Cathedral ensuring compliance with statutory legislation and best practice; ensure emergency procedures are up to date.
• Ensure all data is protected and processed in full compliance with GDPR legislation.
• Ensure that the Cathedral is complies with all legal requirements, interpreting and communicating changes in compliance to the Chapter and Cathedral staff.
• Support the Church of England’s Net Zero targets and ensure the Cathedral has a plan for reducing carbon emissions; adhering to statutory requirements relating to Net Zero.
• Ensure suitable IT provision is in place, to support Cathedral operations, is secure and regularly review software and hardware requirements.
• Work with the Marketing & Communications Manager to oversee public relations, ensuring appropriate management of reputation, branding, and media activities; act as Cathedral spokesperson as appropriate.
• Review working methods, office accommodation and administration support to ensure arrangements are fit for purpose.
• Promote open and transparent ways of working throughout the administration, with effective communication and engagement at all levels.
• Oversee the effective planning and management of key projects and the implementation of delivery programmes to achieve operational and strategic objectives.
• Support the Dean in managing relationships with the 1327 Club.
• Ensure the effective management, use and future development of all the Cathedral’s assets.
• Be responsible for contingency planning, including the management of insurance, disaster recovery and salvage planning and oversee the Cathedral’s risk register.
• Develop for approval, maintain and regularly review policy and procedure documents of Chapter and ensuring they are embedded across the organisation.
• Chair staff and management meetings.
• Manage the business operations of the Cathedral in accordance with the values, standards and budgets agreed by Chapter.
• Lead, manage, motivate and empower staff and volunteer teams through effective structures, training and professional relationships.

Direct Reports

• Chief Finance Officer
• Cathedral Safeguarding Officer
• Human Resources Officer
• Visitor Experience Manager
• Volunteer Manager
• Marketing and Communications Manager
• Facilities Manager
• Shop Manager
• Pilgrims’ Kitchen Manager

Attendance Required at:

• Chapter Meetings
• Finance Committee
• Nominations Committee
• Risk, Audit and Review Committee
• Safeguarding Committee
• Health and Safety Committee
• Information Protection Group
• The Guild of St Edmund Committee
• Forum
• Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM)
• Enterprises Ltd Meetings
• Eco St Eds Committee
• Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn CIO
• Cathedral Administration and Finance
• Association (CAFA)conferences

Person Specification

Essential Qualities

• A proven track record of strategic leadership with successful
• delivery of projects and outcomes within an organisation of a similar size and complexity.
• Experience of working at board level or closely with boards.
• Significant leadership capability, with the ability to influence, inspire, and engage the Cathedral Community and external stakeholders.
• An empowering management style that fosters teamwork, trust and collaboration, with a strong understanding of HR best practice.
• Successful experience of leading significant change and of fostering a culture of continuous improvement and development within a complex organisational environment.
• Proven experience in managing operational performance within tight financial constraints in a complex, multi-faceted environment.
• Effective delivery of financial strategy and budget management, demonstrating strong commercial acumen.
• An understanding of safeguarding and the critical role it plays in protecting all people.

Desirable Qualities

• Previous experience as a COO or at a similar senior leadership level.
• An understanding of the complexities in managing wide-ranging cathedral operations or previous experience within a Church of England setting.
• A good understanding of best practice in charity governance.
• Experience of managing a heritage site.
• Experience working with volunteers.
• Experience in safeguarding best practice.

Knowledge and skills

• Ability to understand complex operational issues and develop creative and innovative solutions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to share information effectively at all levels internally and externally.
• Commitment to working efficiently and effectively, utilising technology and software as appropriate.
• Ability to develop and encourage a strong team ethos among staff and volunteers.
• Strong analytical skills and sound judgment.
• Experience of managing budgets.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage comfortably with all users of the Cathedral.

Other criteria

• Empathy with the beliefs and ethos of the Christian faith.
• Comfortable working within a team of staff and clergy with a range of different skills and gifts, understanding their different roles and working patterns.
• Commitment to the Cathedral’s purpose and vision, and to taking an active role in the Cathedral’s community, mission and outreach.
• A satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this post. The appointment is subject to a six-month probation period.

Additional Information

The role requires the post-holder to work occasional weekends, evenings and non-working days, as required for which time off in lieu will be given. The post-holder will undertake such other duties as may reasonably be expected. This document is accurate at time of publication but is subject to regular review and may change in line with the Cathedral’s requirements.

Closing Date: 9.00 am Monday 3 July 2026

Interviews: Wednesday 12 August 2026

About The Role

This is an opportunity to join our Individual Giving team as a Welcome Officer, supporting the first 12 months of a supporter’s journey with us. This is a single role within the Welcome function, which plays a critical part in how we shape early engagement and set the tone for long term relationships. You’ll help deliver structured, well planned communications that introduce supporters to RBL in a way that feels relevant, timely and consistent across all touchpoints, working within a wider journey-led approach across fundraising.

Come and be part of the leading Armed Forces charity, making a difference to the lives of those who have served to keep us safe and protect our way of life.

Working closely with managers, planning teams, data colleagues and agency partners, you’ll help turn strategy and insight into clear, well executed welcome journeys. This is about more than onboarding communications, it’s about understanding early supporter behaviour, using data and performance insight to refine activity, and ensuring every interaction builds confidence, clarity and connection. You’ll support the planning, briefing and delivery of campaigns, making sure activity is coordinated, properly signed off, and aligned with wider acquisition and growth activity.

This role will suit someone who is organised, comfortable working at pace, and confident managing multiple deadlines and stakeholders. You’ll need to communicate clearly, keep delivery on track, and work within structured processes while still contributing to continuous improvement in how we engage new supporters. Most importantly, you’ll bring a practical, detail-focused approach, someone who can take planned welcome activity and deliver it effectively, helping to build strong foundations for long term supporter relationship

Fundraising sits at the heart of The Royal British Legion’s 10-year strategy, and we’re investing in the people, skills and ideas that will drive growth and strengthen our support for the Armed Forces community. As one of the UK’s most trusted and recognisable charities, we have the reach and ambition to make a real difference, and this is your chance to be part of it. Our Fundraising portfolio is broad and dynamic, spanning major corporate partnerships to our sector leading charity Lottery. We’re investing in growth, evolving how we work, and putting supporters at the centre of everything we do. This is an exciting time to join us. You’ll be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking team, helping shape the future of our fundraising and the impact we achieve together.

If you are applying for multiple Fundraising roles at the same ‘Officer’ or ‘Manager’ title, you are welcome to use the same supporting statement across applications. However, we would encourage tailoring your statement where possible, particularly if applying for roles across different teams or titles.

You will be contracted to our Haig House hub with a minimum expectation of two days per week working in person at the hub and flexibility for working remotely/at home when not on site.

Employee benefits include -

- 28 day’s paid holiday (plus bank holidays) increasing with service, with optional annual leave purchase scheme of up to 5 working days
- Enhanced paid maternity, paternity and adoption leave
- Generous pension contributions, with Employer contributions ranging from 6% to 10%
- Range of flexible working options may be available, depending on your role
- Employee Assistance Programme providing confidential counselling, financial and legal advice
- Range of courses delivered by learning specialists to support your development goals and objectives
- Opportunities to volunteer
- Travel loans, Cycle to Work, and more!

For more detailed information about the role, please see the Job Description attached to our direct advert. Our teams take a personalised approach to shortlisting, which is carried out without the use of AI and is based on the evidence provided in your application against the essential and desirable criteria in the Person Specification.

RBL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation, reflecting the diversity of the armed forces community and of wider society. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal characteristics.

As part of our commitment to inclusion, we offer interview schemes for candidates who declare an Armed Forces connection and/or a disability. However, candidates are only eligible for this scheme if their application clearly demonstrates that they meet all of the essential criteria listed in the Person Specification for the role.

We may close this vacancy early if we believe we have enough strong applications to be able to successfully fill the role(s). Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Would you like to provide support, advice and guidance to the Royal British Legion members in Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland? Are you an effective communicator who can build relationships with our diverse volunteers? If so we would love to hear from you!

Our Membership Engagement Team provide support, advice and guidance to ensure that our members can continue to be the force for good in their communities. Through strong relationships, the team facilitates the sharing of great practice and ensure that the membership remain compliant. The Membership Engagement Officers (MEOs) are actively engaged within their areas, meeting Branch members, supporting their activities and building a stronger membership fit for the next 100 years. 

Come and be part of the leading Armed Forces charity, making a difference to the lives of those who have served to keep us safe and protect our way of life.

The Membership Engagement Officer (MEO) is a key role which inspires and engages our membership to be active and fulfil their role and purpose while remaining compliant with the Legion’s Membership handbook and policies. Every day will be different as this role will see you responding to the needs of the individual county of responsibility. It is a challenging and exciting post where no two days will be the same.

You will provide organisational support, advice and information to our members, and work closely with County Committees, the membership central team staff and other departments.  This a varied role which covers a range of duties from connecting and building relationships with Branches to compliance oversight and responding to membership queries.

Homebased in Northern Ireland, you will be expected to work both there and on a mobile basis at other locations in the Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland area, with occasional travel (incl. for monthly team meetings) beyond this area with occasional travel overseas for engagement purposes.

Some evening and weekend work will be required, including an occasional requirement for some overnight stays.

If you are already an RBL member serving on a committee as an active officer, you cannot be an MEO in your designated area of work.

Given the responsibilities associated with the role, it is a requirement that you live in Northern Ireland and you must hold a full UK driving licence.

Employee benefits include -

- 28 day’s paid holiday (plus bank holidays) increasing with service, with optional annual leave purchase scheme of up to 5 working days
- Enhanced paid maternity, paternity and adoption leave
- Generous pension scheme with employer contributions ranging from 6% to 14%, depending on length of service
- Range of flexible working options may be available, depending on your role
- Employee Assistance Programme providing confidential counselling, financial and legal advice
- Range of courses delivered by learning specialists to support your development goals and objectives
- Opportunities to volunteer
- Travel loans, Cycle to Work, and more!

For more detailed information about the role, please see the Job Description attached to our direct advert. Our teams take a personalised approach to shortlisting, which is carried out without the use of AI and is based on the evidence provided in your application against the essential and desirable criteria in the Person Specification.

RBL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation, reflecting the diversity of the armed forces community and of wider society. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal characteristics.

As part of our commitment to inclusion, we offer interview schemes for candidates who declare an Armed Forces connection and/or a disability. However, candidates are only eligible for this scheme if their application clearly demonstrates that they meet all of the essential criteria listed in the Person Specification for the role.

We may close this vacancy early if we believe we have enough strong applications to be able to successfully fill the role. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Fundraising Officer – 4‑day week, hybrid, high‑impact charity based in Oxford

If you want a fundraising role where you can see the direct impact of every partnership, pitch and campaign this could be the right move.

About the role:
We’re looking for a Fundraising Officer to join Aspire’s small, agile and supportive Fundraising & Communications team. You’ll be an all‑round fundraiser, working across corporate partnerships, trusts and foundations, and community, events and individual giving. You’ll help grow and diversify our voluntary income so that more people across Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley can move out of homelessness, poverty and long‑term unemployment into secure work and housing. 

This is a hands‑on role with real variety: one week you might be crafting a pitch for a new corporate partner, the next you could be pulling together a trust report, planning a community fundraising event or writing supporter communications. You’ll have room to shape the role around your strengths while learning from experienced colleagues.

About Aspire:
Aspire is a multi‑award‑winning employment charity and social enterprise. We support people who have faced serious barriers – including homelessness, offending histories, substance misuse, mental ill health and long‑term unemployment – to build confidence, skills and ultimately secure housing and work. In the last year alone, we supported over 1,800 people experiencing disadvantage to move closer to employment and housing and achieve lasting change. 

We are guided by our values: Ambitious, Supportive, Participatory, Inspiring, Reliable and Enterprising. You will see these lived out day to day – in how we work with participants, partners and each other. 

What you’ll be doing:

• Helping to grow and steward corporate partnerships across Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley, from prospect research and pitches to volunteering and sponsorship. 
• Supporting a strong pipeline of trust and foundation applications and reports, telling Aspire’s story with clarity and evidence. 
• Leading on community fundraising and events, building relationships with local groups, schools, faith communities, businesses and individual fundraisers. 
• Maintaining and developing individual giving through engaging, well‑timed communications. 
• Using our CRM (Salesforce) to keep supporter data, pipelines and reporting accurate and up to date. 
• Playing a full part in a collaborative team where ideas are welcomed and everyone pitches in at busy times. 

About you:

You don’t need to tick every box, but you will bring:

• Experience in at least one of: corporate fundraising, trusts and foundations, community/events or individual giving, plus enthusiasm to grow across all three. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt your tone for different audiences. 
• Confidence building and managing relationships with supporters, customers or partners. 
• Good organisational skills and comfort working to deadlines and targets. 
• A genuine commitment to tackling homelessness, poverty and disadvantage, and alignment with Aspire’s values. 

Experience with Salesforce or AI tools would be helpful, but we’re more interested in your mindset: curious, proactive, organised and keen to learn. 

What we offer:

• A 4‑day working week (0.8 FTE). 
• Salary: £29,234 - £35,305 per annum (FTE), depending on experience (0.8 = £23,387 - £28,244) . 
• Hybrid / remote‑first working, with at least two in‑person team days per month in Oxford and occasional events and meetings. 
• The chance to shape and grow a varied fundraising role in a small, supportive team. 
• A values‑driven culture and the opportunity to see the tangible impact of your work. 

How to apply:

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter directly to by noon on Friday 17th July 2026. In your covering letter, please ensure you tell us how you meet the Person Specification and share examples of relevant achievements. 

We are interviewing on a rolling basis and may close the advert early if we appoint, so we encourage early applications. 

About The Role

As a Senior Internal Communications & Engagement Officer, you'll be at the heart of how we keep colleagues and members informed, connected and engaged across the organisation. If you're an experienced internal communications professional who knows how to turn everyday updates into content people want to read, this is an opportunity to make a real impact. We're looking for someone who can spot a story, write with confidence, and deliver engaging communications across a range of channels. From managing regular publications and creating digital content to supporting high-profile colleague events, you'll play a key role in shaping how we communicate every day.

Come and be part of the leading Armed Forces charity, making a difference to the lives of those who have served to keep us safe and protect our way of life.

This is a varied, fast paced role where no two days are the same. You'll be comfortable managing multiple deadlines, building strong relationships with stakeholders and producing high-quality content and publications that are engaging and tailored to different audiences. Whether you're publishing news on our intranet, developing an electronic digest, creating content for digital screens, repurposing stories across channels or measuring the success of communications to continuously improve engagement, you'll bring creativity, attention to detail and excellent organisational skills to everything you do. We're looking for someone who enjoys taking ownership, isn't afraid to challenge or improve the way things are done and can confidently balance competing priorities while maintaining exceptionally high standards.

To succeed in this role, you'll already have experience working in an internal communications environment and be an excellent writer with outstanding editing and proofreading skills. You'll know how to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders, ask the right questions to uncover great stories and adapt your writing style to suit different audiences and channels. Experience using content management systems such as Staffbase or Dotdigital would be an advantage, but above all we're looking for someone who is curious, proactive and genuinely passionate about creating communications that people notice, trust and engage with. If you thrive in a role where you can combine creativity with organisation and make every piece of communication count, we'd love to hear from you.

You will be contracted to our Haig House hub with a minimum expectation of two days per week working in person at the hub and flexibility for working remotely/at home when not on site.

Employee benefits include -

- 28 day’s paid holiday (plus bank holidays) increasing with service, with optional annual leave purchase scheme of up to 5 working days
- Enhanced paid maternity, paternity and adoption leave
- Generous pension scheme with employer contributions ranging from 6% to 14%, depending on length of service
- Range of flexible working options may be available, depending on your role
- Employee Assistance Programme providing confidential counselling, financial and legal advice
- Range of courses delivered by learning specialists to support your development goals and objectives
- Opportunities to volunteer
- Travel loans, Cycle to Work, and more!

For more detailed information about the role, please see the Job Description attached to our direct advert. Our teams take a personalised approach to shortlisting, which is carried out without the use of AI and is based on the evidence provided in your application against the essential and desirable criteria in the Person Specification.

RBL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation, reflecting the diversity of the armed forces community and of wider society. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal characteristics.

As part of our commitment to inclusion, we offer interview schemes for candidates who declare an Armed Forces connection and/or a disability. However, candidates are only eligible for this scheme if their application clearly demonstrates that they meet all the essential criteria listed in the Person Specification for the role.

Interview dates:
Stage one: 24th July via Teams
Stage two: 29th July in person at Haig House, London Bridge

We may close this vacancy early if we believe we have enough strong applications to be able to successfully fill the role(s). Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Are you excited by the potential of digital technology and data to make a real difference in people's lives? 

Community Action Redbridge is looking for a creative, forward-thinking Digital Innovation and Development Manager to lead the next stage of our digital journey and help shape how technology supports communities across one of London's most diverse boroughs.

Redbridge is home to vibrant communities and a dynamic voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector. We want to harness the power of digital technology and data to strengthen communities, support local VCSE organisations and help create a fairer Redbridge.

Working across the organisation, you'll lead the implementation of our ambitious Digital Innovation and Development Strategy. You'll help create more consistent and effective systems that reduce duplication, improve collaboration and enable our team to focus on what matters most: supporting our communities and member organisations. You'll champion a data-driven culture, helping us turn information into insight, better understand our impact, and make informed decisions that respond to emerging needs.

You'll play a key role in building digital confidence across the organisation, empowering staff to embrace new technologies, develop their skills and use digital tools effectively in their everyday work. Beyond Community Action Redbridge, you'll work directly with local charities and community groups to strengthen their digital capacity, improve access to data and insight, and foster stronger connections across Redbridge's VCSE sector. 

If you're excited by the power of digital technology to connect people, improve services and create lasting social impact, we'd love to hear from you. 

About Community Action Redbridge 

Community Action Redbridge is a local infrastructure organisation dedicated to building a fairer Redbridge where everyone and every community has an equal opportunity to thrive.

Our work supports the development of strong and resilient communities where people lead happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. At the heart of our work is a commitment to social justice and to tackling the root causes of inequality. We’re passionate about shifting power, amplifying community voices and working collaboratively to create social change. We do this by: 

• Strengthening and championing the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector with tools and support to grow and thrive. 

• Supporting local people to drive change in their own communities, through social action, volunteering and active participation. 

• Bringing people and organisations from the VCSE sector, public services, and local businesses together to collaborate on shared ambitions for Redbridge. 

What it’s like to work at Community Action Redbridge 

We’re committed to creating a truly inclusive workplace culture that embraces and celebrates difference. Building a team that reflects the diversity of our communities and brings together a range of experiences, backgrounds and perspectives is essential to the work we do. 

We want Community Action Redbridge to be a safe space for everyone to bring their whole selves to work, where all our employees have the opportunity to thrive and feel recognised and valued for the work they do. 

We offer some great benefits including 28 days’ annual leave (including the festive closure period) plus public holidays, a free and confidential employee helpline, face-to-face and telephone counselling, and a travel loan and cycle to work scheme.

How to apply 

Please submit your CV and a covering letter answering the following 4 questions (no more than 500 words each):

• Describe a digital transformation, systems improvement or innovation project that you have led. What was the challenge, what approach did you take, and what impact did it have on the organisation, team or service users? 

• Tell us about a time when your work improved data collection, analysis or insight within an organisation. How did your work help others make better decisions or improve outcomes? 

• Describe a time when you helped individuals or teams adopt new systems, processes or ways of working. What challenges did you encounter and how did you overcome them? 

• Why do you want to join Community Action Redbridge, and how do your values, skills and experience equip you to help us use digital technology to strengthen communities and create positive social change? 

For full role details, please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.
To submit your application, please click the ‘How to apply’ link.
Closing date: 26th July 2026 

Job Title: Digital Communications Officer

Responsible to: Senior Communications & Engagement Manager

Salary: £29,706 – £31,908 per annum 

Location: Head Office, 5 Trinity Street, London, SE1 1DB 

Hours of work: Full time - 35 hours per week (Minimum two days per week in the London office). Occasional weekend and evening work with time off in lieu (some domestic and international travel may be required) 

The package also includes: 

• 8% employer pension contribution

• 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and additional discretionary leave during the Christmas period 

• Season Ticket Loan 

About USPG 

USPG is the Anglican mission agency that partners churches and communities worldwide in God’s mission to enliven faith, strengthen relationships, unlock potential and champion justice. You can find out more about our work by visiting our website.

About the Role 

Reporting to the Senior Communications & Engagement Manager as part of a highly functioning and creative team, this vital role will work across all media and channels to raise the profile of USPG and its partners and their work: 

• Oversee the day-to-day running of our website and social media channels. 

• Liaise with colleagues and partners to gather information and use it to create engaging collateral which informs, inspires, and sometimes challenges. 

• Support the digital growth of USPG through SEO and Analytics

• Monthly digital and media reporting

About You  

You are an organised and digitally aware communications professional. You can take complex subjects and communicate about them in simple and effective ways that speak to specific audiences. You understand the importance of reporting on website and social media performance to understand USPG’s audience and to adjust and improve. You are comfortable working in a small and creative team and are confident speaking to the wider organisation. You can juggle numerous projects and deadlines at one time.

You will demonstrate considerable cross-cultural awareness and an ability to communicate in a way that is sensitive and appropriate. You demonstrate an aptitude for collaborative teamwork and the ability to work independently on your initiative. It is expected that the postholder will be inspired by the work of USPG and in agreement with its Christian ethos and that they will be comfortable writing in a way which reflects this.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking for an exciting and varied role within charity communications or a communications/marketing professional who wants to move into the charity sector. However, if you don’t necessarily fall into these categories, but have the right skills for this role, please get in touch.

How to apply: 

Please complete the application form and equal opportunities form and email us as indicated.
 

Closing Date: Wednesday 12 August 2026 by 9am.

Interview Date: Wednesday 19 August 2026 in London.

This is an exciting opportunity for a values-led and dynamic leader to become CEO of Rochdale and District Mind and guide us in our mission to make a positive impact on the mental health and well-being of our communities.

About us

Rochdale and District Mind is an independent mental health charity that supports people facing mental health and wellbeing challenges. A part of the national Mind Federation and the Mind in Greater Manchester partnership, our goal is to ensure that individuals do not face mental health issues alone and can live free from stigma and discrimination.

About the role

This role offers an excellent opportunity for an empathetic leader to shape our strategy and cultivate a culture of continuous learning, inclusion, and support, fostering a spirit of celebration for achievements across all teams.

Your leadership will both shape our strategic vision and deliver our operational plans, ensuring robust governance and championing diversity and inclusivity. You will also spearhead the efficient, effective, and safe management of our organisation, in line with our mission, strategy and values.

Committed to mental health advocacy, you will elevate our impact for service users through meaningful co-production of services and by your ability to build effective relationships with partners and commissioners.

Collaborating closely with our dedicated Board of Trustees and experienced Senior Leadership team, you will oversee resource management, finances, and operations, upholding the highest standards throughout and ensuring our growth and long term sustainability.

About you

• Experienced as a CEO/senior leader in a similar sized (or larger) voluntary organisation or an organisation delivering services into the sector or working closely with the voluntary sector.
• Passionate about our mission of ensuring that people do not face mental health and emotional wellbeing issues alone and are free from stigma and discrimination.
• Demonstrable experience as a values-led, resilient and people-centred leader.
• Experience of supporting teams through change.
• Strong financial acumen, able to develop and monitor/evaluate financial plans, budgets management accounts etc.
• Experience of building a culture that promotes continuous learning, inclusion, collaboration, and accountability.
• Proven track record of successful business development/fundraising.
• Able to balance strategic oversight with operational grip.
• Experience of the demands of governance and compliance, including working with Boards of Trustees/NEDs.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills.

Understanding of challenges affecting the voluntary sector.

Benefits:

• Auto-enrolment Pension scheme with 3% contribution from the organisation
• Opportunities for hybrid working after an initial embedding period
• Training and development opportunities
• Our commitment to providing wellbeing opportunities in support of staff, including an Employee Assistance Programme

How to apply

Eastside People is supporting Rochdale and District Mind in the recruitment for this role. Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter. You are welcome to send your cover letter in writing, or as a video or audio clip, alongside your CV.

Please respond to the following areas in your cover letter:

• Your familiarity with mental health and wellbeing challenges and how this resonates for you
• Your experience/knowledge in relation to the Person Specification.

Please note that we will focus on your demonstrable experience and potential in the areas listed under the Person Specification and do not expect candidates to have experience in all responsibilities outlined in the Job Description.

We would discourage you from deselecting yourself if you are in doubt about meeting all the criteria.

The closing date for applications is noon on Monday July 27 2026, and our candidate assessment schedule is anticipated as follows:

• Eastside People longlisting interviews will be held throughout the advertising phase up to and immediately after the above closing date – online
• First Interviews with Rochdale and District Mind will be held on Friday August 7 or August 14 in-person at their offices
• Final interviews with the Board are planned for Friday August 14 or, week commencing August 24 2026 - online

We would like to encourage candidates to apply early for the role where possible.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application/interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

REF-229 627

Job Title:  Officiating Social Impact Officer

Reporting to:  Cricket Development Manager

Location: Trent Bridge, Nottingham, NG2 6AG

Hours: Part-Time 21 hours per week/3 days (some evenings and weekends)

Salary: £ 15,600 pa. (£26,000 per annum pro rata)

Trent Bridge Community Trust is seeking a passionate and driven individual to lead on an impact-led approach to using the power of sports officiating to make a meaningful difference in communities across the county.

This role offers an exciting and unique opportunity to shape a new direction for officiating, with a strong focus on using umpiring and scoring as vehicles to improve physical and mental well-being, build confidence and reduce loneliness, particularly in non-cricketing communities.

You will have the opportunity to shape and deliver development opportunities, such as mentoring programmes and engagement initiatives, while growing and supporting strong networks that help officials feel connected and valued.

You will oversee the Officiating Administrator, who will manage systems and administration, allowing you to focus on leading engagement, development and impact with the autonomy to influence the programme’s development. You will also work closely with the Nottinghamshire Officials Advisory Group, chairing their sessions and working with volunteers to increase the group’s impact.

To be successful in this role, you will need to be confident in engaging with a wide range of people and communities, with a strong ability to communicate effectively across different environments. You will be committed to working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders and understand the value of social impact in sport, particularly in supporting well-being, confidence and connection. You will also be proactive and self-motivated, with the ability to take initiative in shaping and developing the programme.

This is a flexible, part-time role offering the chance to take ownership of an important area of work, contributing both to the growth of cricket and the well-being of people across Nottinghamshire.

If you’re passionate, motivated, and ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

1. RELEVANT GENERAL OBJECTIVES

(Source: 2021-2025 Strategic Plan)

• Invest in Trent Bridge so that it retains its Test Match status and is seen as a year round entertainment destination and as a hub for cricket in Nottinghamshire.
• Create a culture of winning teams that provides sustained success for Nottinghamshire and England.
• Drive participation growth and positive change by taking projects and programmes into communities throughout Nottinghamshire.
• Maintain the club as a financially and commercially sustainable organisation at the heart of our community.
• Innovating across all departments to create success through delivering the best playing, partner, member and supporter experiences in cricket
• Attracting, inspiring and retaining the best people by creating a playing and working environment that is enjoyable, challenging and fulfilling

2. SPECIFIC ROLE PROFILE

To lead and coordinate a programme which recruits, engages, retains and develops umpires and scorers across the county, with a particular focus on using social impact and wellbeing outcomes to grow officiating in non-cricketing communities.

The role will focus on engagement, development and impact, working alongside an Officiating Advisory Group Administrator who will support delivery through systems, logistics and appointments.

Priority Focus Areas

A. Recruit – Engage and attract new umpires and scorers, particularly from underrepresented and non-cricketing communities.

B. Convert – Support new officials to become active and confident through structured engagement and early experiences.

C. Develop and Retain – Develop strong mentoring programmes and development opportunities to create belonging and progression.

D. Social Impact and Insight – Evidence and apply the mental, physical and social wellbeing benefits of officiating.

E. Networks and Community – Strengthen connections across officials through inclusive and active networks.

F. Partnership – Work with internal and external stakeholders to expand officiating opportunities outside the traditional cricketing community.

A. Recruit.

• Develop and promote officiating opportunities to a wide and diverse audience.
• Support the promotion of ECB umpire and scoring courses, working alongside the Officiating Administrator.
• Tailor opportunities and engage female, ethnically diverse, young adults under 25 and older adults over 50 to position officiating as a rewarding and beneficial activity.

B. Convert.

• Build relationships with newly trained officials to support their transition into active officiating.
• Deliver engagement initiatives such as a New Umpire Development Day, focusing on confidence, skills and community-building.
• Provide regular communication and encouragement to support early match experiences and progression.
• Work with partners and volunteers to ensure new officials are provided with appropriate opportunities.
• Use insight and data to identify individuals needing additional support.

 

C. Develop and Retain.

• Develop and oversee mentoring programmes for new and developing officials.
• Work with volunteers to shape and deliver a year-round CPD programme for umpires and scorers.
• Lead engagement initiatives that enhance the experience of being an official, including networking events and recognition.

D. Social Impact and Insight.

• Develop a framework to measure the social impact of officiating, including mental well-being, physical activity, social connection, loneliness and employability skills.
• Produce case studies to highlight the positive impact of officiating across different demographics.
• Use insight to inform programme design, funding applications and stakeholder engagement.

E. Networks and Community.

• Support a connected network of umpires and scorers across the county.
• Maintain active communication channels to drive engagement and peer support.
• Support volunteer representatives to manage and grow special interest networks.
• Ensure officials feel supported, valued and connected to the wider community.

 

F. Partnership.

• Build relationships with community organisations, education providers and partners to expand officiating opportunities.
• Work with internal partners to increase the community reach of officiating programmes.
• Contribute to funding applications using social impact evidence.

3. KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

• · Number of new officials recruited, including from non-traditional cricket audiences.
• · Conversion rate of newly trained officials into active participants.
• · Number of officials engaged in mentoring and development programmes.
• · Participation rates in CPD and development activities.
• · Growth and engagement in officiating networks and communities.
• · Number of new partnerships with community organisations and stakeholders.
• · Evidence of improved well-being outcomes (mental, physical and social) among participants.
• · Number of social impact case studies and reports produced.
• · Successful use of social impact data to secure funding or investment.
• · Percentage of officials who report feeling connected, supported and valued within the network. 

PERSON SPECIFICATIONS

Essential

• Experience of working in sport or community development.
• Experience of engaging and working with a wide range of people and communities.
• Experience of planning, delivering and evaluating programmes or initiatives.
• An understanding of the value of social impact in sport, including how participation can support physical and mental well-being.
• Knowledge of sport and the role it can play in engaging individuals and communities.
• An understanding of community engagement, particularly working with diverse groups and reducing barriers to participation.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of people and communities across different environments.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with volunteers, partners and stakeholders.
• Strong leadership and facilitation skills, with the confidence to lead and chair groups.
• Strong organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative in shaping and developing programmes.
• Comfortable using data and information to support decision-making.
• A willingness to undertake basic training in cricket umpiring and scoring.
• An outgoing, friendly and supportive personality, with the confidence to engage a wide range of people and communities.
• Passionate, reliable and dependable, with a strong commitment to using sport to create positive social change.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, taking ownership and showing initiative.
• A positive and collaborative approach to working with colleagues, volunteers and partners.
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, with a focus on engaging underrepresented communities.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends where required.
• Ability to travel to multiple locations across the county to deliver engagement.
• Holds or is willing to undertake an Enhanced DBS check.

Desirable

• Experience of producing and using insight to evidence or inform delivery, including social impact measures.
• Experience in facilitating group meetings or forums.
• Experience of supporting or working with volunteers.
• A strong knowledge of social impact, including the use of insight, measurement and benchmarking.
• Knowledge of cricket and cricket officiating.
• Applied knowledge of how sport and physical activity can support health, well-being and social outcomes.
• Ability to analyse and apply data and insight to measure and demonstrate impact.
• A relevant qualification in sports development, community development or a related field.
• A qualification in sports officiating.

HOW TO APPLY

Closing date for receipt of applications will be: 12 noon on Monday 13th July 2026

Interview dates: Thursday 16th and Friday 17th July

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults and expect the same commitment from all staff and volunteers

We are an equal opportunity employer. we celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment for all employees. when submitting your details, please let us know if you require any support or reasonable adjustments during the interview process

No agencies please

0.5 FTE – 18.75 hours per week (flexible working)
Salary: £30,000-£32,000 FTE depending on experience
Location: Hybrid working with one regular day or half-day per week in Abingdon/Oxfordshire, alongside home working and regular external meetings

About Quest for Learning

Quest for Learning is an education charity working to close the gap for primary school children in Oxfordshire who are falling behind due to disadvantage.

We work closely with schools to deliver targeted, evidence-led literacy and numeracy programmes that help children build the skills, confidence and foundations they need to thrive. Many of the children we support are growing up in poverty, facing barriers linked to low family literacy, unmet additional needs, unstable home circumstances, or limited access to wider opportunities.

Our programmes are delivered by experienced professional tutors and are built around structured interventions, strong school partnerships and measurable outcomes. On average, pupils supported through our small-group tutoring make around 13 months of progress in just 10 hours of support.

Quest for Learning is entering an important new stage of development. Following a period of organisational growth and strategic transition, we are investing in building a stronger and more sustainable fundraising function that can deepen our impact and reach more children across Oxfordshire.

This is an opportunity to help shape that next stage.

Why join us?

This is a rare opportunity to join a small but ambitious charity at an exciting stage of development.

You’ll have:

• Real ownership and autonomy within your role
• The opportunity to help shape and grow a developing fundraising function
• Close working relationships with the CEO and leadership team
• Flexibility and hybrid working arrangements
• The chance to build meaningful partnerships across Oxfordshire
• Opportunities for progression as the organisation grows

We are intentionally investing in fundraising, partnerships and long-term sustainability, and this role offers the opportunity to help build strong relationships and community support around an ambitious, evidence-led charity with significant future potential.

We are a collaborative, supportive and purpose-driven team that values initiative, professionalism, creativity and compassion.

Role purpose

We are seeking an energetic, proactive and relationship-focused fundraiser to help grow Quest for Learning’s community, corporate and partnership fundraising activity.

This role will focus primarily on building relationships and developing opportunities with local businesses, community organisations, schools, supporters and wider networks across Oxfordshire.

We are looking for someone who enjoys meeting people, building partnerships and creating opportunities through strong communication and relationship management. The successful candidate will help raise the profile of Quest for Learning, strengthen supporter engagement and contribute to a more diverse and sustainable income base.

This is a role for someone who is motivated by people, partnerships and meaningful social impact.

Alongside this role, Quest for Learning is also recruiting for a trusts and grants fundraising role. We are open-minded about how responsibilities are ultimately structured and welcome applications from candidates with a range of backgrounds, experiences and strengths.

You will work closely with the CEO, programme staff and trustees, with access to strong impact data, established programmes and a compelling case for support.

Key responsibilities

Community and partnership fundraising

• Build and develop relationships with local businesses, community groups and supporters
• Identify and develop opportunities for corporate partnerships, sponsorship and community fundraising
• Represent Quest for Learning at meetings, networking events and community activities
• Develop and maintain relationships with local organisations including schools, Rotary clubs, WIs, businesses and civic groups
• Support the development of fundraising campaigns, partnership opportunities and supporter initiatives
• Help grow Quest for Learning’s visibility and supporter network across Oxfordshire
• Work with the CEO and trustees to identify and cultivate new opportunities and introductions

Supporter engagement and stewardship

• Build positive and professional relationships with supporters and partners
• Ensure strong communication and stewardship with supporters
• Help supporters and organisations engage meaningfully with Quest for Learning’s mission and impact
• Support the development of compelling fundraising messaging and supporter communications
• Gather and share stories, outcomes and examples of impact with supporters and partners

Organisational contribution

• Contribute to the ongoing development of Quest for Learning’s fundraising function and systems
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation
• Represent Quest for Learning professionally and passionately to external audiences
• Contribute ideas and insight to support organisational growth and sustainability
• Maintain accurate records of partnerships, communications and activity within Beacon CRM

Person specification

We recognise that strong fundraisers and partnership-builders do not always come from traditional charity fundraising backgrounds. If you have transferable skills and experience in areas such as partnerships, account management, business development, communications, education, customer relationships, sales, marketing or community engagement - and are excited by our mission - we would strongly encourage you to apply.

Essential

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Confidence building relationships with a wide range of people and organisations
• Ability to work independently and proactively
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Strong written communication skills
• Confidence representing an organisation externally
• Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively
• Commitment to the mission and values of Quest for Learning
• Experience in relationship-building, partnerships, stakeholder engagement or supporter-facing work

Desirable

• Experience in fundraising, partnerships or business development
• Experience within education, children’s services or related sectors
• Knowledge of the Oxfordshire community or business landscape
• Experience working within a small charity or growing organisation
• Experience supporting events, campaigns or community engagement activity
• Experience using Beacon CRM or similar systems

What success in this role looks like

Successful performance in this role is likely to include:

• Building strong and sustainable community and corporate relationships
• Increasing Quest for Learning’s visibility and supporter engagement
• Developing new partnership and fundraising opportunities
• Growing unrestricted and partnership-based income
• Strengthening supporter stewardship and community presence
• Contributing to the growth and professionalisation of Quest for Learning’s fundraising function

As Quest for Learning grows, we expect this role to develop too, with opportunities to shape strategy and take on increasing responsibility over time.

Who thrives at Quest for Learning

People who tend to thrive at Quest for Learning are:

• proactive and solutions-focused
• motivated by meaningful impact
• comfortable working independently while collaborating closely with others
• excited by helping build and improve systems and processes
• confident building relationships and engaging with people
• adaptable, thoughtful and motivated to grow professionally alongside the organisation

Working arrangements

• 0.5 FTE with flexible working arrangements
• Hybrid role combining home working with one regular day or half-day per week in Abingdon/Oxfordshire
• Regular travel across Oxfordshire for meetings and events
• Flexible working patterns can be discussed

Benefits

• Flexible and hybrid working
• Pension contribution
• TOIL policy
• Supportive and collaborative working culture
• Professional development opportunities
• Opportunity to help shape a growing fundraising function within an ambitious charity

Application process

To apply, please submit:

• your CV
• and a short statement (maximum one page) explaining:
  • why you are interested in the role
  • and how your skills and experience relate to the role

We encourage applications from candidates with both traditional and non-traditional fundraising backgrounds.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Chris Higgins, CEO

Closing date: midday, Tuesday 30 June
Interviews: week commencing 6 or 13 July 

Are you a creative and user-centred Learning Designer with a passion for education? Do you want to make a real impact in the medical field by creating world-class digital learning courses for doctors?

RCR Learning supports radiologists and clinical oncologists’ professional development throughout their career – whenever and however they practice. We design, develop and deliver innovative learning products that respond to the real challenges of clinical practice. We’re building a world-class digital learning library of high quality, engaging courses which meet our members’ needs.

The Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) is looking for a Digital Learning Designer to join our dynamic RCR Learning team. You’ll collaborate with subject matter experts and RCR Learning colleagues to design and develop visually engaging, interactive online learning resources that support doctors throughout their careers.

What you’ll do:

Design & develop digital learning

• Work with SMEs to design, test and evaluate interactive online learning courses.
• Create engaging multimedia assets including graphics, animations, videos and templates.
• Develop storyboards and scripts, offering technical and creative input.
• Communicate design ideas clearly and contribute innovative approaches.
• Ensure all content meets RCR brand, accessibility and quality standards.
• Manage multiple projects, deadlines and deliverables.

Support & improve our digital learning offer

• Identify improvements to the LMS, analytics and user experience.
• Support project workflows and operational processes across the Learning team.
• Monitor delegated budgets and contribute to annual content reviews.

Innovate & stay up to date

• Keep informed on best practice in digital learning, pedagogy and accessibility.
• Evaluate new tools and platforms to enhance our learning offer.
• Support marketing with insights into user engagement and standout content.

What you’ll need:

• Extensive experience applying educational and instructional design principles to high quality digital learning. 
• Proficiency in key digital learning authoring tools (e.g., Storyline, Rise 360, Synthesia, Canva). 
• Strong visual design skills, ideally with experience using Adobe Creative Suite. 
• Experience creating engaging digital and video based visual assets. 
• Knowledge of accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG), copyright, GDPR and other relevant legislation. 
• Ability to collaborate confidently with SMEs and internal stakeholders. 
• Experience designing interactive learning exercises such as branching scenarios (desirable). 
• Experience working with doctors, academics or medical professionals (desirable).

If you're excited about using your design skills to support healthcare professionals and improve patient care, we’d love to hear from you.

Why join us:

• Make a difference to the lives of Doctors and the specialities they work in every day!
• Hybrid working (60% working week can be done remotely)
• Modern working environment
• Equipment provided to work from home
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Excellent pension scheme
• Interest free season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme

We are looking for a proactive and creative Marketing and Events Officer to join our award-winning charity. This is a varied and hands-on role suited to a marketing professional looking to progress their career in a dynamic organisation. Working across the charity and with our core operations, Outside the Box and Carers and Companions, you will deliver our day-to-day marketing activities. Creating and delivering compelling marketing, engaging content and creative communications as well as supporting a wide range of events, you will be a confident communicator, with a keen eye for design, strong writing and design skills and be highly organised, able to manage multiple projects across a range of areas. Great attention to detail and a passion for our work are essential!

Closing date – Tuesday 28th July 2026

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

About Hackney School of Food

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

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

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

About the role

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

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

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

Key priorities

In your first 12 months you will:

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

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

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

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

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

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership 

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

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

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

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

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

Financial sustainability and income generation 

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

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

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

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

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

Partnerships & External Relations

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

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

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

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

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

Governance and public benefit 

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

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

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

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

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

• Maintain effective governance, delegated authority and accountability frameworks. 

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

People, Culture and safeguarding

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Risk Management & Compliance

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

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

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

Personal specification

Essential experience 

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Experience of governance, compliance and organisational risk management.

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

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

Essential skills and attributes

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

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

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

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

• Strong communicator with excellent relationship-building skills. 

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

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

Desirable 

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

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

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

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

An inclusive workplace

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

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

How to apply

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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