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BeSpace is seeking an innovative and faith-filled leader to pioneer a new national initiative that reimagines Christian pilgrimage for children and young people in schools.
As our Pilgrimage Development Lead, you will design, test and grow creative pilgrimage models that help children explore faith, encounter God and develop spiritually through contemplative Christian practice. Working with churches, schools, dioceses and Christian organisations, you will develop resources, create training, build partnerships and identify opportunities to scale successful models across the UK.
This is a unique opportunity to shape an emerging area of ministry from the ground up. We are looking for someone with experience in children's spirituality, Christian faith development and project leadership who is excited by innovation and motivated by impact. You will be comfortable developing new ideas, building strong relationships and creating practical tools that equip others to deliver high-quality experiences.
BeSpace is a growing Christian charity with a vision to see every child joyful, resilient and growing spiritually for life. Having supported over 69,000 children through prayer and reflection spaces in schools, we are now expanding our work nationally and developing new ways for churches to engage children through contemplative Christian practices.
If you're passionate about helping children encounter God, equipping churches and developing innovative approaches to spiritual formation, we'd love to hear from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Workforce Development Coordinator
WorldSkills UK is looking for an organised and proactive Workforce Development Coordinator to join our Workforce Development Team.
At WorldSkills UK, we have big ambitions to help young people, the education system and the economy. We work across the UK to raise standards in technical education and apprenticeships, champion future skills and help more young people from all backgrounds succeed in work and life.
As Workforce Development Coordinator, you will play an important role in supporting the successful delivery of our workforce development programmes. Working with colleagues, participants, delivery partners and other stakeholders, you will help ensure our programmes are well organised, our systems and information are accurate, and participants receive a professional and positive experience.
The role is varied and will include:
- coordinating programme activity, meetings, events and workshops;
- maintaining programme documentation, schedules, records and systems;
- coordinating communications with participants and internal and external stakeholders;
- collecting, validating and collating data and supporting programme reporting;
- coordinating participant registration, onboarding and ongoing support;
- working with suppliers, venues, contractors and delivery partners; and
- helping to improve systems, processes and ways of working.
We are looking for someone who is highly organised, has excellent attention to detail and can confidently coordinate multiple activities, priorities and deadlines. You will need strong administrative and communication skills, the ability to build effective working relationships with a range of people, and the confidence to use your initiative while working collaboratively as part of a team.
Salary: £28,000
Contract: Permanent, full time (35 hours per week)
Location: London, with flexible hybrid working. The postholder is expected to attend the office at least once or twice a week.
How to apply
Please download and read the application pack attached before applying.
WorldSkills UK uses a blind recruitment approach. To apply, please submit the following:
- an anonymised CV in Word format;
- a supporting statement in Word format outlining your suitability for the role and addressing the role description and person specification; and
- a separate document containing your name, email address, telephone number and confirmation of your right to work in the UK.
Closing date: 23:59 on Sunday 4 October 2026.
Late or incomplete applications, or applications that do not follow the application requirements, may not be considered.
WorldSkills UK uses a blind recruitment approach. Applications must include:
1) an anonymised CV in Word format;
2) a supporting statement in Word format outlining your suitability for the role and addressing the role description and person specification; and
3) a separate document containing your name, email address, telephone number and confirmation of your right to work in the UK.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Role: You will work with local residents to bring about positive change for North Leatherhead, by supporting community-led activities, growing local leaders, and facilitating residents’ engagement in decisions affecting this community.
Pay: £32,136 a year (pro rata).
Contract: permanent contract, subject to a 4-month probationary period.
Hours: 4 or 5 days a week, including occasional evening and weekend working, to be agreed with the successful applicant.
Location: LCH, Kingston Road, Leatherhead. KT22 7PX. Not suitable for remote working.
Background
Leatherhead Community Hub (LCH) has employed a Community Development/Engagement Worker since 2022, building relationships with local residents and listening to people’s concerns and hopes for North Leatherhead. This has led to the development of a number of successful community-led activities, including our weekly non-contact boxing and football training sessions for children and young people. More recently, we set up a Residents’ Panel and carried out a large-scale Community Survey, to help ensure that LCH is always listening to local residents and guided by local priorities.
This role is a vital element of LCH’s strategic vision for the next three years and beyond:
· cultivating community – offering a safe space for community activities that strengthen mutual support networks.
· growing capability - equipping local residents with the skills and confidence to bring about positive change in their community.
· fostering connections - acting as a focal point for collaborative working between local charities, agencies and businesses.
Our community development work is particularly focused on “growing capability”, recognising the importance of focusing time and energy into listening, encouraging and empowering others, and offering opportunities for local residents to get involved through volunteering, training, and working with us.
LCH is always seeking to be shaped by the desires and needs that arise within the community, by bringing people’s ideas into action and giving residents a voice in decisions affecting the local area. As a charity, we are also working towards residents being involved in every aspect of the governance of LCH, whether as trustees or on the management and operations teams.
Context
North Leatherhead is in the top 10% most deprived neighbourhoods in Surrey, with relatively high rates of poverty, economic inactivity, poor physical and mental health, and social isolation; all these issues have been exacerbated by the lack of community provision and damaging impact of the closure of the children’s centre and other community buildings in recent years.
Leatherhead Community Hub (LCH) was set up in July 2020 as a dedicated community centre in North Leatherhead. LCH provides opportunities for people to come together socially and build community, as well as giving our partner organisations a permanent base from which to offer critical support to local residents. Our mission is to create a safe, welcoming space at the heart of the community, where people of all ages can connect, learn, have fun, and find the support they need to thrive. The Hub attracts around 3,500 visitors a month to our affordable café and the many other community activities run by LCH and other community groups.
Description of role:
We are looking for someone who is capable of running community projects, but who is keen to involve others and gains most joy and satisfaction from developing leaders and volunteers from within the local community and seeing them grow and succeed in their roles.
In this role, you will be responsible for engaging and empowering the residents of North Leatherhead to facilitate positive change for the local community, by:
1) overseeing existing community projects, and encouraging the involvement of local residents in supporting, running, and leading these projects;
2) equipping local residents with the skills and confidence to initiate and run new community-led events and activities;
3) facilitating and growing our Residents’ Panel to play a key role in the governance and running of LCH, with a view to appointing several trustees from the local community.
4) promoting dialogue and collaboration between local residents and service providers, enabling people to have a greater say in decisions affecting the community;
5) supporting the management team and trustees in prioritising LCH’s resources to best serving the desires and needs of the local community.
6) subject to experience, we would also like the postholder to help with, or lead on, our social media alongside volunteers from the local community - although this is not an essential requirement for this role.
You will be employed by Leatherhead Community Hub, using the Hub as a base for networking, capacity-building, and community-led activities, whilst also reaching out and making connections with other sections of the local community. This role will require you to have a regular presence at LCH and in the wider community.
You will work closely with local service providers and other community organisations, including the council, housing association, and GP practices, as well as LCH’s core partners: Citizens Advice Mole Valley, EDGE Disability, Good Company Surrey (Foodbank), Link 2030, Mid-Surrey Community Fridges, The Gathering Church, and The Hive (a creative arts project). You will help promote a collaborative and participatory approach to supporting the community, seeking to ensure that local residents are directly engaged in initiatives aimed at meeting the needs of the North Leatherhead community.
You will be member of LCH’s Management Team, and line managed by the Managing Director, Tom Sefton, with advice & support from one of our Trustees and Co-Founders, Jenny Moore, who has worked in this community for over 20 years.
This role is partly funded by a multi-year grant from the National Lottery’s Reaching Communities Fund, which includes a number of specific objectives which you will be responsible for delivering, including: growing our youth sports projects, supporting more community-led activities, establishing our Residents’ Panel; and increasing local representation on our Board of Trustees.
Requirements of the postholder:
Essential:
· Excellent listening skills – friendly and approachable, with the ability to connect with people from a wide range of backgrounds and make them feel supported and valued.
· A proven ability and desire to motivate and support people to use and develop their strengths and skills for the benefit of the wider community.
· Good networking skills and experience of working well with other organisations to achieve positive change for the community.
· Experience of volunteering and/or working in a range of community settings.
· Strong organisational and time management skills, and good IT skills.
· A positive and creative approach to work – able to handle new or competing demands and work on own initiative without close supervision.
· A willingness to work flexibly, including occasional evening and weekend meetings and events.
· A firm commitment to the vision, mission and values of LCH.
Desirable:
· Previous experience of working as a community development worker or similar role.
· An understanding of the principles of asset-based community development and/or other participatory approaches to community development.
· Experience of training and supporting volunteers.
· Demonstrable experience in developing and running community-led events and activities, in a voluntary or paid capacity.
· Experience using social media to raise awareness, engage local communities, and promote activities or events.
· Experience of living, working and/or volunteering in the local area.
How to apply: Please send your CV and a cover letter (no more than 400 words), explaining why you would like this role and how you meet the job requirements.
Posted on: 24th August 2026
Closing date: 23rd September 2026
Interview date: 30th September 2026
Please send your CV and a cover letter (no more than 400 words), explaining why you would like this role and how you meet the job requirements.
To create a safe and welcoming space at the heart of the community, where people can connect, learn, have fun and get the support they need to thrive.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Role
Policy Development Lead
We are looking for a Policy Development Lead to provide strategic leadership, coordination and expertise in proactive policy development across NDCS. This exciting new role will help us think beyond immediate policy activity, identify where system change is needed, and develop longer-term policy positions that are informed by evidence, specialist insight, lived experience and external practice.
The role will initially focus on Education, while retaining the flexibility to support wider policy development across areas such as early years, social care, health, benefits, sign language and other emerging priorities. Working closely with Platform Leads, Policy and Nation Leads, and colleagues across the organisation, you will help ensure NDCS develops strong, evidence-based policy positions that create meaningful change for deaf children and their families.
What you'll do
- Lead and coordinate proactive policy development activity across NDCS, identifying opportunities for deeper policy thinking and systems change.
- Apply systems thinking to identify complex challenges, explore interdependencies and develop practical solutions
- Identify emerging trends, risks and opportunities, using systems thinking and horizon-scanning approaches to inform future organisational priorities.
- Translate complex evidence, research and lived experience into clear recommendations that support organisational decision-making and influence.
- Influence senior leaders and key stakeholders by providing strategic policy advice, insight and recommendations.
- Lead and coordinate policy development activity across multiple teams, ensuring expertise, insight and activity are aligned.
- Build productive relationships with external researchers, policy networks and sector experts to bring innovative thinking into NDCS.
- Identify cross-cutting themes and opportunities for change by bringing together insight from local, regional and national sources.
- Facilitate strategic conversations that help colleagues explore complex issues, understand system interdependencies and develop long-term solutions.
- Champion a proactive, evidence-informed approach to policy development across the organisation.
What you'll need
- Significant experience in policy analysis, development or strategy within a complex organisation, sector or policy environment.
- Proven ability to translate complex evidence, research and lived experience into recommendations that drive organisational action and influence.
- Experience influencing senior decision-makers and shaping organisational, sector-wide or public policy direction.
- A track record of leading and coordinating complex work across multiple teams, functions or stakeholders.
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to produce high-quality briefings, policy positions and strategic recommendations.
- Experience bringing together evidence and insight from multiple sources to identify emerging issues, trends and opportunities for change.
- Strong systems-thinking skills and experience developing long-term solutions to complex challenges.
- The ability to lead through collaboration, credibility and specialist expertise, building alignment across diverse teams and stakeholders.
- Strong understanding of the policy, practice and systemic issues affecting deaf children and families, and the ability to apply this knowledge to strategic policy development.
- Strong digital skills and a sound understanding of agile values & principles.
- Acriminal record check / DBS disclosure (if offered the position).
What you'll get
- Home-based working with flexible hours.
- 25 days holiday - plus an additional 3 days at Christmas (& bank holidays).
- Pension (5.5% employer contribution).
- Healthcare Cashplan.
- Annual performance-based salary increase.
- Employee Assistance & Wellbeing Programmes.
What we do
The National Deaf Children's Society are the leading charity for deaf children. We give expert support on childhood deafness, raise awareness and campaign for deaf children's rights, so they have the same opportunities as everyone else.
Pre-employment checks
As part of our commitment to creating a safe and trusted environment for the children, young people and families we support, all offers of employment are subject to background checks. These include Right to Work verification, Criminal Record Disclosure, and ID and address verification.
To complete an online Right to Work check, you will need a valid UK or Irish passport, or a government share code if you are not a British citizen. If an online check is not possible, we’ll need to verify your documents in person at our London office. Please be aware that travel time and expenses for this appointment cannot be reimbursed.
Disability Confidence
We are a Disability Confident Employer and committed to offering interviews to candidates who request to be considered under the disability confident scheme and meet the minimum requirements for the role.
The National Deaf Children’s Society is a registered charity in England and Wales no. 1016532 and in Scotland no. SC040779.
Job description:
Reporting to: Bradford Team Leader
Hours: 17.5 - 21 hours (negotiable)
Salary: SCP 7 £27,910 per annum pro-rata
Leave: 28 days plus 14 Bank Holidays pro rata
Pension and benefits: 5% employer contribution pension, with an additional 5% employee contribution.
Closing date: Monday 12th October 12pm
Interview date: Tuesday 20th October 2026
Contact details for recruiting manager for applicant: Linda Barker, Bradford Team Leader
This candidate will be joining a vibrant and brave grassroots organisation led by Gypsy and Traveller people in West Yorkshire. Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Exchange (Leeds GATE) is an established and award-winning civil societyorganisationwith a national profile. We arerecognisedas being innovative, brave and creative.Our overall aim is to improve the quality of life for Gypsies andTravellersthrough addressing inequalities in homes, health, education, and employment, financial and social inclusion. We run a number ofa communityfacing and strategic projects to achieve our aims including advocacy, community development and youth work.Those who access our services and activities are members of Leeds GATE.
As a community development worker, you will play a key role in our organisation, building strong relationships with our communities. You will deliver outreach including activities, information, and support. You will plan community groups with our members, ensuring members have access to opportunities and promoting health and wellbeing. You will support families with their own goals and help people organize together when facing a collective issue – aiming to improve health, homes, education, and inclusion for our members.
As a team player, you will communicate proactively with your team and line manager, and work with our members, staff and partners to build trusted relationships. You will listen to and identify members' issues and concerns, bringing a solution focused approach to the work. You will facilitate asset-based community development approaches in galvanizing people, by working together on projects that bring improved health, wellbeing and social inclusion to the Leeds GATE members in Bradford. Gaining and sharing insight of the barriers preventing their community development goals and working with key stakeholders to address these barriers.
The role will be underpinned by Leeds GATE’s values including:
Leeds GATE is Brave and Creative
Leeds GATE believes that everyone is equal and can be included
A world in which all Gypsies and Travellers have the opportunity to thrive and make choices as equal, valued and respected members of society.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Business Development Manager
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (full time)
Contract: Fixed Term 12 months
Salary: £40k per annum
Reporting to: Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships
Youth Business International is a global network supporting young entrepreneurs to start, grow and sustain successful businesses. We bring together organisations around the world to deliver practical support, share expertise and create opportunities for young people to thrive.
We are looking for an ambitious Business Development Manager to help us grow and diversify our income and build new, long-term funding partnerships.
Working closely with the Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships, you will play a central role in identifying new opportunities across trusts and foundations, corporate partners and major donors.
We are looking for someone with a strong track record in fundraising, business development or partnership development, particularly in generating new opportunities and managing a pipeline through to successful outcomes.
If this sounds like you, you can find the full information in the job pack and we look forward to receiving your application.
To apply
PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE APPLYING FOR THE CORRECT ROLE YOU ARE INTERESTED IN AS WE HAVE TWO ROLES CURRENTLY LIVE.
- Please submit your CV (maximum 2 x A4) and a cover letter (max 2 pages). Your cover letter must address how you meet the person specification.
- You must ensure that these documents clearly demonstrate the expertise, skills, experience and competencies required for this role as they will be used to shortlist you.
- Closing date: Midnight 20th September 2026.
- Please note you must have an existing right to work in the UK as YBI is not able to sponsor visas.
Please make sure you are applying for the correct role you are interested in as we have two roles currently live.
Please ensure your cover letter addresses the person specification as that will be used alongside your CV to make shortlisting decisions.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join a vibrant and brave grassroots organisation led by Gypsy and Traveller people in West Yorkshire.
Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Exchange (Leeds GATE) is an established and award-winning civil societyorganisationwith a national profile.
We arerecognisedas being innovative, brave and creative.Our overall aim is to improve the quality of life for Gypsies andTravellersthrough addressing inequalities in homes, health, education, and employment, financial and social inclusion.
We run a number ofa communityfacing and strategic projects to achieve our aims including advocacy, community development and youth work.Those who access our services and activities are members of Leeds GATE.
Job Purpose:
Working in Wakefield and Calderdale you will build trusted relationships with Leeds GATE members, residents and families living on the Heath Common local authority site (Wakefield), yards, houses and roadside across the Wakefield district and Calderdale Borough.
Through your relationships you will gain understanding of people’s strengths, interests and hobbies, whilst also building up knowledge of the needs of support, barriers and issues faced by Gypsies and Travellers.
As a community development worker you will help to develop and create opportunities to engage the community, such as activities and group work, thinking how these can help people to share their ideas, develop their skills, build confidence and empower them, as well as improving health and wellbeing outcomes to enable better lives.
An element of hybrid working is supported within this role but it is expected that the majority of work (80%) will be based on sites, outreach and community based events.
A world in which all Gypsies and Travellers have the opportunity to thrive and make choices as equal, valued and respected members of society.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Partnerships & Development Manager
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (full time)
Salary: £40k per annum
Contract: Maternity Cover Fixed Term Contract (currently until July 2027)
Reporting to: Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships
Youth Business International (YBI) is looking for a Partnerships & Development Manager who combines programme management expertise with partnership development and income generation.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys working across effectively managing an established portfolio of global programmes, donor partnerships and identifying, developing new funding opportunities.
Working closely with the Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships, YBI’s global network, internal teams and external partners, you will help connect impact with investment – using insight from an effectively managed programme portfolio and stakeholder intelligence to help shape innovative partnership models.
You will need to be self-motivated, adaptable, very organised and comfortable working with high levels of autonomy and pace.
If this sounds like you, you can find the full information in the job pack and we look forward to receiving your application.
Please note you must have an existing right to work in the UK as YBI is not able to sponsor visas.
To apply
PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE APPLYING FOR THE CORRECT ROLE YOU ARE INTERESTED IN AS WE HAVE TWO ROLES CURRENTLY LIVE.
- Please submit your CV (maximum 2 x A4) and a cover letter (max 2 pages).Your cover letter must address how you meet the person specification.
- You must ensure that these documents clearly demonstrate the expertise, skills, experience and competencies required for this role as they will be used to shortlist you.
- Closing date: Midnight 20th September 2026.
Please make sure you are applying for the correct role you are interested in as we have two roles currently live.
Please ensure your CV and cover letter adequately demonstrate how you meet the requirements of the role as they are used to make shortlisting decisions.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Help Shape a Brighter Future for Bedford
Do you have the vision to turn great ideas into impactful programmes? Are you committed to creating opportunities for children and young people, and helping communities to thrive?
The Harpur Trust is a charitable organisation that operates four leading independent schools, delivers a substantial community grants programme and sponsors the Heart Academies Trust. With more than 1,200 employees, we invest in education, community development and initiatives that improve life chances across Bedford Borough.
We are also a founding partner and host of Bedford Giving, a movement of businesses, charities and other partners, who have all come together to form Bedford Giving to help create a brighter future for the next generation in Bedford.
We're looking for a dynamic Programmes and Grants Manager to play a central role in delivering these missions. This is a unique opportunity to join a respected local charity and help shape the future of Bedford Giving.
About the Role
As Programmes and Grants Manager, you will lead the development, commissioning and management of high-impact programmes and partnerships across The Harpur Trust and Bedford Giving.
You'll take ideas from concept to delivery, identifying community needs, researching solutions, commissioning services, managing partnerships and ensuring programmes achieve meaningful outcomes.
This is a varied and rewarding role combining strategy, programme development, stakeholder engagement, grant-making and contract management.
You'll work closely with senior leaders, trustees, community organisations and delivery partners, helping to ensure that every pound invested delivers maximum impact.
About You
We're looking for someone who combines strong project or programme management skills with a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for children, young people and communities.
You will bring:
• Experience of programme development, commissioning, grant-making or service delivery within the charitable, public or voluntary sector.
• Strong project and contract management skills.
• Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Confidence managing multiple priorities and delivering work to a high standard.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach and a willingness to take initiative.
• A passion for creating positive social impact.
Why Join Us?
At The Harpur Trust, you'll be part of an organisation with a long history of investing in people and communities.
In return, we offer:
• A competitive salary up to £40,000.
• The opportunity to influence programmes that improve lives across Bedford.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Professional development and learning opportunities.
• Generous pension and employee benefits.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements where appropriate.
• The chance to work with inspiring partners across the charity, education and community sectors.
Interested?
Find out more by viewing the full job description and click on apply to find out where to send your CV and covering letter.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
VCSE Development Lead
Wiltshire Wide | 30 hours per week (4 days) | Fixed-term 3 year contract
Salary: £32,000 FTE (pro rata)
Help Wiltshire's community organisations grow, thrive and make a bigger difference
Community groups and charities are at the heart of stronger, healthier communities. They bring people together, tackle local challenges and create opportunities for those who need them most.
At Wessex Community Action, we're looking for a passionate and proactive VCSE Development Lead to work alongside voluntary organisations, charities and grassroots groups across Wiltshire, helping them develop the skills, confidence and resilience they need to flourish.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys building relationships, supporting others to succeed and making a tangible difference in communities.
What you'll be doing
As our VCSE Development Lead, you'll be out in communities across Wiltshire, working directly with organisations at every stage of their journey.
Whether it's helping a new community group put the right foundations in place, supporting a charity to strengthen its governance, or helping an organisation become funding-ready, you'll provide practical advice, tailored support and encouragement that enables local organisations to thrive.
You'll also develop and deliver training, facilitate networking opportunities and connect organisations with partners, funders and wider support networks.
Most importantly, you'll help community organisations become stronger, more sustainable and better equipped to meet local needs.
Who we're looking for
We're looking for someone who:
- Has experience working with charities, voluntary organisations or community groups
- Understands organisational development, governance and community capacity building
- Can support organisations to improve their sustainability and funding readiness
- Is confident facilitating workshops, training sessions and group discussions
- Builds trusted relationships with a wide range of people and organisations
- Is passionate about empowering communities and reducing inequalities
- Enjoys working independently while being part of a supportive team
What we offer
- A rewarding role where you can make a real difference in local communities.
- Flexible and supportive working arrangements.
- The opportunity to work alongside inspiring community organisations, volunteers and local leaders.
- A friendly, values-driven team committed to strengthening communities.
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata).
- Additional leave between Christmas and New Year (subject to organisational arrangements).
- Contributory pension scheme.
- Health plan.
- Annual volunteering day.
- Training and professional development opportunities.
- Dedicated external training budget.
Join us
If you're passionate about helping community organisations develop, grow and create lasting impact, we'd love to hear from you.
Please send your CV and a covering letter (maximum two sides of A4) outlining:
- Your interest in the role
- Your experience of working with and supporting charities and community groups
Closing date: Sunday 4 October
Interviews: 12 and 13 October
Our mission as an independent charity, is to provide infrastructure support to the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector across Wiltshire.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the team
The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships.
The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.
Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.
You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve.
About this role
The Development Director (Philanthropy) provides strategic leadership across Impetus’ philanthropy and stewardship portfolio, with responsibility for relationship management, renewal, growth and selected new business activity. The postholder will work with high-value funders, including corporate partners, trusts and foundations, and high-net-worth individuals.
In 25/26, the Philanthropy and Partnerships team generated £11m in philanthropic income, alongside £2.8m in pro bono contributions. The Development Director will play a key role in delivering Impetus’ growth ambitions, supporting the increase in philanthropic income to £14m by 2029.
Working closely with the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the role will translate the fundraising strategy into clear stewardship, renewal, relationship-growth and selected new business plans, ensuring strong donor retention, high-quality engagement and sustainable growth in high-value income.
Working closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the postholder will oversee the donor lifecycle across the philanthropy portfolio, with particular focus on strategic stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and the effective transition of selected prospects into long-term donor relationships. They will personally lead and support significant six and seven-figure donor relationships and selected funding opportunities, while working with colleagues to ensure the philanthropy pipeline, stewardship plans and account management disciplines are strong.
Working collaboratively across the Philanthropy and Partnerships team and with colleagues across the organisation, the Development Director will ensure a joined-up approach to donor stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and selected donor acquisition, maximising income, partnership value and long-term impact within the agreed fundraising strategy.
Key responsibilities
Strategic Relationship Management & Growth
- Own and oversee strategically significant donor and partner relationships at six and seven-figure levels, ensuring high levels of retention, satisfaction, trust, income growth and long-term value.
- Set and embed best practice stewardship standards, ensuring donors receive timely, consistent, high-quality and relevant engagement and communications throughout their relationship with Impetus.
- Work closely with the wider team to ensure a smooth transition between new business, and long-term stewardship.
- Ensure account plans for priority donors and partners include clear renewal and growth pathways; engagement and risk-management plans.
- Act as senior relationship owner where required, modelling strong stewardship and coaching the Head of Philanthropy and other colleagues to navigate complex or sensitive relationships.
New Business: Pipeline & Conversion
- Personally lead on select six and seven-figure level priority prospects and strategic funding opportunities, managing the full fundraising cycle from qualification to close.
- Work with trustees, senior volunteers and networks to support warm introductions, relationship development and follow-up, in line with agreed new business and stewardship priorities.
- Work with colleagues to translate Impetus’ impact, evidence base and venture philanthropy model into compelling propositions for donors, prospects and priority audiences.
Performance and KPI Reporting
- Accountable for ensuring effective implementation, monitoring and continuous improvement of fundraising performance frameworks, KPIs and reporting disciplines.
- Use performance data and insight to improve team effectiveness, inform portfolio planning and resource recommendations, and identify opportunities for retention, renewal and growth.
- Oversee philanthropy portfolio data quality, reporting and forecasting, ensuring robust systems and processes.
- Ensure robust systems, processes and performance disciplines are in place to support delivery of agreed philanthropy portfolio objectives and wider fundraising goals.
- Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and evidence-led decision-making across the philanthropy portfolio and direct team.
Donor Communications
- Provide strategic oversight of donor communications for the philanthropy portfolio, ensuring messaging is clear, compelling, timely and aligned to Impetus’ voice, values and evidence base.
- Work with Communications and Philanthropy colleagues to design and continuously improve philanthropic communications, including cases for support, proposals, pitches, stewardship materials and donor updates.
Leadership and Team Performance
- Line manage and develop the Head of Philanthropy, providing direction, coaching and performance oversight within agreed strategy and priorities.
- Develop the Head of Philanthropy as the operational lead for stewardship, ensuring capability, succession and high performance across their team.
- Set clear objectives and success measures for stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and portfolio delivery, aligned to Impetus’ wider income strategy.
- Build and sustain an inclusive, evidence-led and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, balancing pace and ambition with quality, learning and collaboration.
- Build fundraising and stewardship capability across the team through coaching and consistent, fair and high-quality performance management, including objective-setting, feedback and development planning.
Pro Bono, Events, Volunteering & Partnership Value
- Ensure engagement opportunities, including volunteering, pro bono and events, strengthen donor relationships, partnership value and long-term income growth through strong collaboration with colleagues.
Operational Excellence, Governance & Risk
- Ensure philanthropy and selected new business activity complies with due diligence, gift acceptance and risk management requirements.
- Oversee accurate philanthropy pipeline reporting, forecasting and performance tracking, using Salesforce and other systems to ensure insight informs portfolio planning and decision-making.
- Work with Finance and Operations to ensure income is contracted, invoiced, and reported accurately and on time in line with financial controls.
- Identify and escalate strategic, financial or reputational risks associated with donors, prospects and partnerships.
Cross-Organisational Leadership & Representation
- Act as a senior ambassador for Impetus, representing the organisation credibly with new donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
- Contribute to organisational strategy, income planning, and senior leadership discussions.
- Lead philanthropic work on Impetus funds including identifying funding opportunities and risks; shaping prospect pipelines; contributing to cases for support and donor presentations; and develop fund stewardship.
- Champion collaboration across the Philanthropy team, ensuring opportunities are shared, relationships are well managed and expertise is used to maximise income and impact.
- Model Impetus’ values, evidence-led approach and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion across the philanthropy portfolio.
Strategic Leadership
- Work in partnership with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to contribute to the fundraising strategy.
- Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans, objectives and delivery, ensuring stewardship, renewal and relationship growth contribute to organisational priorities, income targets and long-term growth ambitions.
- Provide strategic oversight of philanthropy portfolio forecasting, budgeting input, pipeline performance and resource recommendations, ensuring risks and opportunities are identified and escalated proactively.
- Maximise the contribution of trustees, committees, senior volunteers and wider networks to support donor stewardship, relationship growth and selected new business development.
- Act as a trusted senior adviser to the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, providing insight, challenge and solutions to strengthen philanthropy portfolio performance and wider fundraising capability.
- Deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships where appropriate, within agreed delegations and priorities.
- Build a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, modelling Impetus’ values and supporting continuous improvement.
Person specification
Essential:
Fundraising & new business leadership
- Significant experience in major donor and/or corporate fundraising at six and seven-figure gift level, with a strong track record of securing new income and managing complex partnerships.
- Ability to lead and personally deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, negotiation, and close.
- Proven experience of building, managing, and converting a new business pipeline, balancing ambition with delivery.
- Strong ability to leverage internal and external networks, including trustees, senior volunteers, and professional contacts.
Senior stakeholder engagement
- Experience of operating at a senior level and leading high value or complex stakeholder relationships (trustees, board members, senior external partners).
- Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
- Excellent negotiation skills, with the ability to secure mutually beneficial outcomes while protecting organisational values and reputation.
Leadership & people management
- Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including developing senior colleagues and building leadership capability.
- A strong track record as a collaborative senior team member, contributing beyond own area of responsibility and supporting wider organisational success
- Ability to build a high-trust, high-challenge culture that supports excellence, inclusion, and learning.
- Strong performance management capability and ability to handle complex people issues, giving strategic feedback, and addressing underperformance constructively.
- Ability to deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships when appropriate.
Strategic & intellectual capability
- Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate agreed strategy and insight into clear plans and execute them effectively.
- Ability to grasp, interpret apply and communicate complex information and ideas, including Impetus’ venture philanthropy and impact-led funding models.
- Evidence of an innovative and creative approach, with the ability to adapt in changing contexts.
Financial, operational & delivery capability
- Solid financial management, with experience contributing to budget-setting, managing agreed budgets, supporting forecasting and identifying efficiencies.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities to a high standard
- Able to use insight and data (including CRM systems such as Salesforce) to inform decisions and strengthen performance.
- Sound judgement in identifying, managing, and escalating risk, particularly in relation to donor relationships and reputation.
Communication, values & ways of working
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
- Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish, maintain, and leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
- A strong commitment to Impetus’ mission and to improving outcomes for young people.
- A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrated through inclusive leadership and professional practice.
Desirable
- Experience working within venture philanthropy, impact investing, or systems-change funding models.
- Familiarity with private equity, professional services.
- Experience contributing to income growth, donor strategy or portfolio development within an agreed organisational fundraising strategy.
- Knowledge of the UK charity or social impact sector, particularly education, employment, or youth-focused work.
- Experience using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) to manage pipelines, performance, and forecasting.
About Impetus
At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.
We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:
- Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
- Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
- The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment
We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.
Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.
We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.
You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.
Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.
Our Values
In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
We are brave and curious
We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.
We bring high trust, high challenge
We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.
We are evidence led and results driven for young people
We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.
We thrive through diversity
We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.
We always seek collaboration
We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.
Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.
We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.
We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.
We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.
Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.
Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.
Our employee benefits
Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.
How to apply
Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.
You will need to:
- Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
- Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.
The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.
You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.
As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.
The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.
Interviews:
1st Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.
2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 12th October 2026.
You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.
Personal Data
Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.
Impetus transforms the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds by ensuring they get support to succeed in school, in work and in life.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
UK Youth has launched an ambitious new strategy to widen the reach and deepen the impact of youth work and outdoor learning. At the heart of that strategy is a clear commitment: We Back Youth Work Leaders.
As our new Head of Network Development, you will turn that commitment into action.
You will lead the development and delivery of a powerful national offer that equips youth work leaders with the investment, support, relationships and connections they need to thrive. This includes leading our Grants+ approach—combining significant, multi-year grant funding with tailored organisational-development support—and developing partnerships that strengthen youth sector infrastructure locally, regionally and across the UK nations.
This role is about much more than managing a network. We are evolving towards a more relational way of working: listening deeply to youth-work leaders, understanding the realities they face, involving them in shaping our work and building relationships founded on trust, respect and shared purpose. You will ensure organisations can access the right support, expertise and opportunities—and that their insight continually shapes UK Youth’s work.
You will have the opportunity to lead the delivery of the £13 million UK Youth Fund, strengthen the resilience and effectiveness of grassroots youth organisations, and help create a more connected and equitable system of support for the wider sector.
We are looking for someone with deep knowledge and experience of youth work and the youth sector—someone who can talk the talk and walk the walk with youth organisation leaders. You will bring substantial experience of the youth work sector and infrastructure, organisational development and capacity building, alongside the strategic and operational leadership needed to deliver significant grant-making activity and complex partnerships.
You will be an inclusive and credible leader who can turn ambitious strategy into excellent delivery, bring people and organisations together, and remain focused on what youth work leaders need to succeed.
Across the country, youth workers are changing—and often saving—young lives. This is your opportunity to ensure the people and organisations doing that vital work have the investment, infrastructure and support they deserve.
Purpose of the job
The Head of Network Development will lead the operationalisation of UK Youth’s new We Back Youth Work Leaders strategic pillar. The role will turn our ambition to equip youth-work leaders with the skills, networks and confidence to deliver exceptional support into a coherent network development offer—leading our Grants+ approach of multi-year funding alongside tailored organisational development, and strengthening youth-sector infrastructure locally, regionally and across the UK nations.
Central to the role will be embedding UK Youth’s increasingly relational approach to its network: building trusted, mutually beneficial relationships with youth-work leaders; listening to and understanding their needs; involving them in shaping our support and connecting organisations to the right opportunities, expertise and infrastructure. Reporting to the Director of Network Delivery, the postholder will be responsible for translating this strategic ambition into high-quality, well-governed delivery, while ensuring that learning and insight from the network continually improve our work and contribute to securing sustainable investment in youth work and outdoor learning.
Why work at UK Youth?
Every young person deserves a youth worker. UK Youth exists to make that a reality. Our vision is a society that backs every young person - through each spark, struggle and success.
As the UK’s national infrastructure body for youth work, we strengthen and champion a diverse network of youth organisations, unlock investment, shape policy and build the evidence base for what works. At a time of growing need and inequality of access, our work has never been more important.
We are entering an exciting new phase of our strategy - focused on long-term resilience, income diversification and a transformational Capital Appeal to develop Avon Tyrrell as a national centre of excellence for outdoor learning. Joining UK Youth means being part of an ambitious, impact-driven organisation committed to strengthening youth work for generations to come.
Key responsibilities
Portfolio leadership and delivery
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Lead the strategic and operational delivery of UK Youth’s network development portfolio, translating organisational strategy and funded commitments into clear plans, outcomes, budgets, milestones and accountabilities.
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Ensure programmes and services are delivered to a high standard, on time and within budget, with effective governance, performance management, risk control and escalation to the Director of Network Delivery.
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Mobilise new initiatives and partnerships, establishing proportionate delivery models, systems, teams and governance arrangements.
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Lead continuous improvement across the portfolio, responding effectively to evidence, partner feedback, changing needs and the external environment.
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Be a champion of UK Youth’s network across all of UK Youth’s work.
Grant making and organisational development
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Lead the delivery of UK Youth’s significant, multi-year grant-making portfolio, including the £13 million UK Youth Fund, ensuring responsible stewardship of charitable and restricted funds.
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Ensure effective management of the full grant lifecycle, including programme design, application and assessment, due diligence, decision-making, contracting, payments, monitoring, reporting, complaints and closure.
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Maintain robust and proportionate grant governance, financial controls, safeguarding assurance, risk management, data quality and compliance with funder and regulatory requirements.
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Lead an integrated organisational development offer alongside grant funding, enabling smaller youth and outdoor learning organisations to strengthen their financial sustainability, leadership, governance, workforce and resilience.
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Embed open, trusting, accessible and equitable grant-making practice, reducing unnecessary barriers while maintaining appropriate accountability.
Network and sector infrastructure support
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Develop and deliver UK Youth’s approach to engaging, connecting and supporting our national network, informed by the needs and experiences of youth work leaders and organisations.
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Create opportunities for peer learning, collaboration, knowledge exchange and access to relevant support across the network.
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Lead major initiatives that strengthen youth sector infrastructure locally, regionally and nationally, working with partners to improve the consistency, coordination and accessibility of support.
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Support regional and national partners to understand need, develop shared plans and approaches, and deliver locally relevant infrastructure and organisational support.
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Work with the Communications Team and relevant colleagues to ensure network communications are timely, accessible, coordinated and purposeful.
Experience we're after
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Substantial leadership experience within the youth sector, grounded in an in-depth understanding of youth work practice, youth work leadership and the realities facing youth organisations and their leaders.
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Experience of leading a complex, multi-year network development or comparable portfolio, translating strategy and funded commitments into successful delivery and managing significant budgets and risks.
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Experience of leading substantial grant making or onward funding activity, including governance, due diligence, financial oversight, risk and accountability.
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Substantial organisational development and capacity building experience, including diagnosing organisational needs and designing practical support that strengthens leadership, governance, financial sustainability, workforce and resilience.
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Experience of developing networks, partnerships or infrastructure across multiple organisations, regions or systems, with demonstrable credibility among youth organisation leaders.
What we can offer you
We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance, excellent learning and development opportunities and vibrant organisational culture:
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Flexible/Agile Working
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27 days annual leave (24 days + 3 days winter closure) plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)
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Funded training provided in; Safeguarding, GDPR, Information and Cyber Security & Equality & Diversity
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Other training available in support of your personal and professional development
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Pension scheme (currently UK Youth match employee contributions up to 5%)
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Membership of our life insurance scheme which would pay-out up to 4 times your salary
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Employee Assistance Programme to support employees both professionally and personally
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20% discount off bookings at Avon Tyrrell, our New Forest Outdoor Centre, including camping, lodges and outdoor activities.
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IT equipment provided for the duration of contract
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CycleScheme and TechScheme
How to apply
If you would like to be considered for this fantastic opportunity, please complete an application via our completely anonymised recruitment system provided by Applied which looks to create a fair and unbiased application process for all. Scroll to the top of the page and start your application.
Closing date: 29th September 2026 at 09:00
Provisional First Stage Interview Dates: 5th & 6th October 2026
Provisional Final Stage Interview Dates (in person): 9th October 2026
As this role involves working in a regulated environment with young people, any offer will be conditional to satisfactory background checks, which include criminal record check and employment reference.
Please note CVs will be reviewed as the first stage of the recruitment process. Candidates who are shortlisted following the CV review will then have their sift questions assessed. Only candidates who meet the requirements at both stages will progress further in the recruitment process.
UK Youth is a leading charity with a vision that all young people are equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Role/Job Title: Development and Opportunities Lead
Location:
Office Base to be either 19 High Street, Battle, TN33 0AE or Cornford Lane, Pembury, TN2 4QU
Hybrid role but regular travel required (Battle, Hastings and Pembury)
Mileage expenses will be paid for travel to locations away from your main workplace, in accordance with the organisation's mileage policy.
Hours: 37 hours per week (Monday – Friday)
Salary: £40,000 to £45,000 per annum
Closing date for applications: Wednesday 30th September 2026
We encourage early applications, as we reserve the right to close this vacancy before the advertised closing date should we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Equal Opportunity/Accessibility and Accommodations Statement:
As a Disability Confident employer, Aspens Charities is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities. We actively promote the recruitment, retention, and career development of people with disabilities, recognising the invaluable contributions they make to our organisation. We are dedicated to ensuring an accessible recruitment process for all candidates. If you require any accommodations during the application or interview process, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Aspens is entering an exciting new chapter. Following a recent organisational restructure, we've strengthened the way we deliver care, creating an even more effective, responsive and sustainable model of support for the people we support.
As part of this transformation, we've created new opportunities to join our leadership team - roles that didn't previously exist. We're looking for passionate, values-driven leaders who are committed to delivering outstanding, person-centred support, driving continuous improvement, and embedding high-quality, consistent standards across our services.
This is an opportunity to make a real impact: empowering teams, sharing best practice, strengthening governance, and ensuring every person we support receives exceptional care, regardless of where they live or who is supporting them.
If you're ready to shape the future of social care, inspire others, and be part of an ambitious organisation dedicated to improving lives, we'd love to hear from you. Join us and help lead the next stage of the Aspens journey.
Lead Innovation. Drive Growth. Create Opportunities.
Aspens is seeking an exceptional Development & Opportunities Lead to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our services and creating meaningful opportunities for the people we support.
This is a high-impact leadership role for an ambitious, strategic thinker who is passionate about innovation, service development, and delivering outstanding outcomes for autistic people and people with learning disabilities. Working closely with the Head of Service Development and PBS and the wider leadership team, you will identify opportunities for growth, develop new services, lead transformational projects, and ensure our services continue to evolve and thrive.
About the Role:
As Development & Opportunities Lead, you will lead service innovation and growth across our day and community-based services. You will oversee the strategic development of our day opportunities provision while identifying new ways to diversify services, generate income, and respond to emerging community needs.
This role combines strategic leadership, operational oversight, project management and quality improvement, making it an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys turning ideas into reality and influencing positive change at organisational level.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development, expansion and scaling of high-quality services across the organisation.
- Embed co-production throughout the organisation so the voices of the people we support are heard at all levels
- Identify opportunities for innovation, growth and service diversification.
- Develop business cases and support funding applications for new initiatives.
- Drive continuous improvement and embed best practice across services.
- Lead the strategic development and operational oversight of day services.
- Build strong relationships with commissioners, funders, families, regulators and key partners.
- Use data, evidence and insight to shape decision-making and measure impact.
- Lead, coach and support managers while developing talent across the organisation.
- Horizon-scan for emerging opportunities, research and sector developments.
- Support organisational strategy and contribute to long-term sustainable growth.
About You:
We're looking for a forward-thinking leader who combines commercial awareness with a genuine passion for inclusion and person-centred support.
Essential Experience & Skills
- Significant senior leadership experience within health and social care.
- Proven experience leading service development, growth and transformation initiatives.
- Experience overseeing day services or community-based support models.
- Experience managing multi-site services.
- Strong strategic thinking and programme management skills.
- Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder engagement abilities.
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to turn evidence into action.
- Financial, commercial and operational awareness.
- Values-driven leadership with high emotional intelligence.
Qualifications
- Degree-level qualification in Health & Social Care, Education, Psychology or a related field.
- Commitment to ongoing professional development.
What We Offer:
· Comprehensive paid training and excellent career progression opportunities, including recognised qualifications in health and social care
· Paid DBS check
· Flexible work arrangements, with the option to take on additional bank shifts
· Nest Pension and Death in Service benefit
· Access to a dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aiders
· Blue Light Card discounts
· 20% discount at Aspens High Street Stores for all staff
· Discounted staff menu available at the Bluebell Café (Pembury)
· Refer a Friend scheme - earn up to £250 for every successful referral
· Employee recognition programmes, including ‘Employee of the Month’
Apply now and one of our team members will reach out to discuss the role further.
If shortlisted, we will contact you directly to schedule an interview. We strive to respond to all applicants; however, if you have not received a response within a reasonable timeframe, please feel free to contact us for a status update or feedback (where available). After the interview, you will be notified of the outcome. If successful, you’ll receive a formal offer in writing. Upon acceptance, we’ll guide you through the onboarding process, providing you with all the details you need
Please note, any offer of employment will be subject to Disclosure and Barring checks (which we will arrange on your behalf if you don’t already have one) and satisfactory employment references.
Our mission is to provide high quality care and support to individuals on the autism spectrum and with learning disabilities; meeting their needs and
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Organisational Development Advisor to support the delivery of strategic people and culture initiatives within a leading Higher Education institution. Working closely with academic and professional services leaders, you will help drive organisational effectiveness, leadership development, employee engagement, and workforce capability projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with schools, faculties, and professional services teams to deliver OD initiatives and people-focused projects.
- Support leadership development, staff engagement, culture change, and wellbeing programmes.
- Design and facilitate workshops, briefings, and learning interventions.
- Provide advice and support to managers on organisational development and workforce planning activities.
- Monitor and evaluate OD programmes, using data and feedback to measure impact and inform improvements.
About You
- CIPD qualified (or equivalent) with experience in Organisational Development, Learning & Development, or HR.
- Experience delivering people, culture, leadership, or organisational change initiatives within a complex organisation.
- Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and build relationships across diverse teams.
- Higher Education or public sector experience is highly desirable.
Why Apply?
This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a people strategy that supports organisational excellence, staff development, and a positive workplace culture within a dynamic Higher Education environment.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
About the RoleAn exciting opportunity has arisen for an Organisational Development Advisor to support the delivery of strategic people and culture initiatives within a leading Higher Education institution. Working closely with academic and professional services leaders, you will help drive organisational effectiveness, leadership development, employee engagement, and workforce capability projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with schools, faculties, and professional services teams to deliver OD initiatives and people-focused projects.
- Support manager and leadership development, team effectiveness interventions, and career development support during change.
- Design and facilitate workshops, briefings, and learning interventions and provide 1:1 coaching.
- Provide advice and support to managers on organisational development and workforce capability activities.
- Monitor and evaluate OD programmes, using data and feedback to measure impact and inform improvements.
About You
- CIPD qualified (or equivalent) with experience in Organisational Development, Learning & Development, or HR.
- Experience delivering people, culture, leadership, or organisational change initiatives within a complex organisation.
- Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and build relationships across diverse teams.
- Higher Education or public sector experience is highly desirable.
Why Apply?This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a people strategy that supports organisational excellence, staff development, and a positive workplace culture within a dynamic Higher Education environment.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

