Director jobs in south east

Director of Research

The Henry Jackson Society (HJS) is the UK’s boldest think tank and policy-shaping force, constantly ahead of the curve on the big issues of international and domestic importance. We are currently looking for a Director of Research to help lead us permanently on the next stage of our organisational journey, which has already taken us to the status of a household name in the international political and media constellation. 

When HJS was founded back in 2005, the global environment was very different to what it has become today. Over that time, the threats to the free world internationally and to free societies domestically have multiplied, but there has been one constant: HJS’s willingness and ability to fight for the principles and alliances which keep societies free – working across borders and party lines to combat extremism, advance democracy and fundamental human rights, and make a stand in an increasingly uncertain world. 

Reflecting this, our work is focused into two main streams: “Securing our Societies” and “Advancing the Free World”. “Securing our Societies” focuses on threats to free societies within the West, while “Advancing the Free World” examines how the enemies of the free world are operating internationally. Obviously there is interplay between the two streams as the challenges we face are often not as obliging as to lend themselves to easy classification!

What We Are Looking For

In order to meet our ambitious agenda and to augment our existing capabilities, we need a Director of Research to provide strategic oversight for all HJS research and to act as an integral part of the senior management team. You will also be responsible for your own research programme like any other Research Fellow, in order to produce output in your area of expertise.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious candidate to develop their skills and profile further and will suit people ready to take on a challenging and exciting role at an organisation that can offer profile development as it increases in size and scope, as well as those with existing management expertise looking for a new challenge at the leading edge of the public debate. 

You will play a critical part in our future development in a proactive role which will require you to create, manage and expand HJS research capabilities. You will have experience of managing colleagues and working to defined objectives, as well as a proven record in fundraising not just for your own projects but also for wider goals. With colleagues in the research, communications and policy departments to assist, you will be playing the lead role in managing and directing our research output and strategy, as well as developing and delivering profile-raising material of your own.

This position is an opportunity for a motivated and well-rounded individual to work in a pivotal and challenging role where no two days are the same, and which provides the opportunity for career growth in an organisation looking to evolve domestically and internationally. Above all though, we want you to be passionate about our issues and hungry to make a difference in the public policy world – recognising that this is not a normal 9-5 job where you switch off once you turn off your laptop because (a) you don’t want to and (b) you understand that this is not how the policy world works. The rewards, both professionally and personally are vast, as some of the stellar names who have passed through our ranks are now shining examples of, but they require dedication and commitment to achieve. 

Join us – and help make history. 

Main Duties

• To conceptualise, plan, lead and execute the research programme and special projects;
• To develop existing projects and create new ones in order to boost the written, oral and programmatic output of HJS, and to ensure that there is a steady pipeline of work being published in internet and physical form; 
• To structure the department in order to manage research staff, increase their productivity, develop their skills and ensure that they meet agreed deadlines; 
• To peer review, proof and edit research output; 
• To provide reports on progress, delays and changes to the research programme; 
• To identify and develop revenue streams from research content, and to provide an overview of research funding secured and research expenditures through the budgeting and reporting process; 
• To help develop a collegial, united and inspiring atmosphere for all staff across the organisation; 
• To conceptualise, plan and execute a series of exciting research projects over the course of each year, complete with deliverables, ensuring compliance with good practice in relation to the conduct of research; 
• To conduct your own high quality research and writing, including contributing to drafting funding bids and proposals; 
• To engage in public speaking and media commentating; 
• To ensure media placement of the Society written output in association with colleagues and monitor the frequency and quality of this output, in addition to third party references to research; 
• To develop a network of professional, political and media contacts within your field of expertise; 
• To fundraise/secure grants to support your work; 
• To promote your work and represent your discipline and the work of HJS internally and externally, and to act as part of the HJS family in supporting colleagues doing the same. 

Location: Millbank Tower, 21-24 Millbank, SW1P 

Working style: In office Monday to Wednesday; Work from Home Thursday and Friday 

Director of Strategic Partnerships

Keychange Charity
Hybrid – Home, Community Sites & London Office
£62,000–£66,000 per annum, depending on experience
Full Time

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for building partnerships that transform lives?

Keychange is a Christian charity with over a century of experience supporting people facing homelessness, isolation, and vulnerability. We create caring communities where everyone can belong and flourish, inspired by the love and example of Jesus.

We are seeking an inspiring Director of Strategic Partnerships to join our Senior Leadership Team. In this pivotal role, you will shape our partnerships, fundraising, and advocacy—ensuring our mission remains sustainable and impactful for years to come.

Your Impact

The Director of Strategic Partnerships reports to the CEO and is a part of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), all of whom are Christian.  The SLT is responsible for the leadership, culture and Christian values of Keychange in the central office and community sites.

The person appointed to this role will:

• Maximise current impact and develop new programme opportunities for improvement and influence
• Develop and implement fundraising programmes
• Drive external partnership growth, including instigating national and local partnerships
• Lead on advocacy and influence, including local and national government policy and targets and sector themes and trajectories

For more information, please see the job pack, with key responsibilities, person specification and further information about making an application.  Interviews will be ongoing for candidates who can demonstrate the experience and attributes required, and we reserve the right to close the application process early. This role is subject to an occupational requirement, please see job pack for more details. 

How to Apply

To apply, please send:

• A cover letter outlining why this role excites you and how you meet the essential and desirable criteria

• Your up-to-date CV

Important: We’d love to hear your authentic voice—please do not use AI to write your application.

Key Dates

Deadline for applications: Midday, Thursday 24 July
Screening interviews (online): Friday 25 July
Final interviews (in person): Tuesday 29 or Wednesday 30 July

Want to Find Out More?

We know moving roles is a big step. For an informal conversation, please contact:
Sarah Hurst – Executive Assistant to the CEO

Join us in building communities of hope, care, and belonging. We welcome applications from candidates who share our vision and values.

Dedicated to creating social change through music, AudioActive  provides free open-access sessions, workshops, and opportunities  that empower young people in Sussex to explore their talent, find  their voice, and shape their futures. Whether it’s emerging rappers,  producers, or vocalists, AudioActive nurtures raw potential,  providing young people with the tools to turn passion into purpose.  From grassroots sessions to talent development, AudioActive is  where music meets social impact. We are restless, unafraid, and  excited about what we do. 

The Director of Operations is a delivery-focused leadership position  responsible for ensuring AudioActive runs like clockwork. This  role is perfect for someone who thrives on creating order from  complexity, enjoys the satisfaction of well-oiled systems, and takes  pride in operational excellence. You’ll be the backbone that ensures  everything functions seamlessly, allowing our creative teams to  focus on their transformative work with young people. 

As part of the Senior Management Team (SMT), integrity and  discretion in handling sensitive information will be paramount.  Our ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative environment, ready  to contribute to the growth of our organisation. Enthusiasm, a  positive attitude, and a passion for our mission are qualities we  highly value. If you are a proactive starter-finisher with these  attributes and a commitment to making a difference, we invite you  to join our team.

Responsibilities:

LEADERSHIP

• Contribute to ongoing development of the business and strategic plans
• Lead implementation of operational plans and decisions
• Deputise for CEO when required
• Support learning and development of direct reports
• Develop and maintain key stakeholder relationships
• Identify operational development opportunities for the organisation

OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT

• Lead organisational governance and operational functions
• Develop and maintain operational systems and solutions
• Responsibility for building and asset management
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements
• Oversee GDPR, insurance, and health and safety protocols
• Implement and maintain quality management systems
• Oversee IT infrastructure and digital systems
• Manage the Trustee Meeting organisation, document generation, trustee communication and administration
• Explore ways to make operations and facilities more environmentally sustainable as Environment Lead
• Ensure environmental considerations are factored into organisational decision making. 

SYSTEMS EXCELLENCE & PROCESS MANAGEMENT

• Design, implement and continuously refine operational workflows and procedures
• Establish and maintain comprehensive process documentation and standard operating procedures
• Conduct regular systems audits to identify inefficiencies and implement improvements
• Working with the Business Analyst, oversee the creation and maintenance of operational dashboards and performance metrics
• Develop fail-safe procedures and contingency planning across all operational areas

HUMAN RESOURCES

• Design, implement and continuously refine operational workflows and procedures
• Establish and maintain comprehensive process documentation and standard operating procedures
• Conduct regular systems audits to identify inefficiencies and implement improvements
• Working with the Business Analyst, oversee the creation and maintenance of operational dashboards and performance metrics
• Develop fail-safe procedures and contingency planning across all operational areas

See attachment for further responsibilities 

We are on a mission to champion change and celebrate diversity in classical music – do you have the skills and expertise to help us?

After ten successful years of growth, underpinned by a strong mission and successful fundraising, the Chineke! Foundation is looking for a Projects Director who will help ensure that the production and organisation of projects match their artistic ambition.

You will play an important role in the continued growth and evolution of the organisation. You will work closely with the Projects Team and lead on planning, selling and delivery. You will communicate the development of any new projects whilst overseeing the pre-existing engagements and work closely with our touring agents at Askonas Holt. Reporting to the Managing Director and working as part of our dynamic team of management staff you will play a vital role in the organisation.

Job description

Reporting to the Managing Director and in coordination with the Artistic Director and Deputy Artistic Director, you will handle the orchestra’s diary, lead on the production of projects and line manage the Orchestra & Tour Manager and our Production freelancers.

Your responsibilities will be:

· Attending all Chineke! rehearsals, projects and tours

· Working closely with the artistic team to assist on curation of programmes, keeping track of conductor/soloist invites and handling contracting once bookings have been confirmed

· Meeting with venues to generate interest in our future programmes and secure concert dates to build out regional tours around core Southbank Centre dates

· Keeping the Development Director and Marketing and Communications Manager up to date on projects and future plans

· Keeping track of our National Portfolio Organisation requirements with Arts Council and planning projects to meet our targets on the number of concerts in each category that we have committed to in each financial year

· Working closely with our important partners i.e. Askonas Holt, Southbank Centre, Woolwich Works, Royal Albert Hall

· Working closely with the Artistic Team and Managing Director to ensure that our performance plans align with our mission and 5 Year Development Plan

· Producing and negotiating contracts to engagements (conductors, soloists, with venues/festivals, tours, commercial engagements etc.)

· Contributing to a supportive and collegiate culture within the Chineke! Foundation

Action for Refugees in Lewisham (AFRIL) is seeking our next Executive Director to lead our small, dynamic charity. You will be joining an impactful local organisation at a crucial time in our development. Since 2021 we have grown significantly and sustainably, developing new services based on client needs. You will be leading a highly competent and passionate team who are community minded and experts in their fields. 

The Executive Director has overall responsibility for the day-to-day management of the charity, including finance and fundraising, as well as supporting the development and delivery of services. They will work with four experienced project leads to deliver and develop our core services: Casework and Advocacy Service, Rainbow Club Supplementary School, Destitution Service and Food Bank, and our Allotment of Refuge, as well as our Policy and external influencing work led by our Deputy Director for Casework and Policy. 

We are seeking to appoint an exceptional candidate who can balance the demands of strategic leadership with the operational execution and development of our services and policy work. We are seeking someone with a high level of operational skill and accountability in operational management and governance. You will be responsible for the central services of the charity including finance, fundraising, legal, HR and communications. We are looking for a thoughtful leader who is passionate about staff and volunteer support. You should have experience and understanding of small charities and the external context within which we operate.

About us:

Founded in 2004, AFRIL supports refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants to lift themselves out of poverty, assert their rights, and rebuild their lives in the heart of our community. We provide both crisis support to meet immediate need, and longer-term, flexible programmes to tackle the underlying issues that result in poverty. We engage in policy and legal interventions to affect change. Our work is grounded in the values of professionalism, inclusivity, and solidarity, and our approach to service delivery is one of co-production and empowerment. We work with partners locally and nationally to deliver high quality services and advocacy.

Our Services:

• Casework and Advocacy – AQS and IAA accredited advice, casework and legal interventions in housing and homelessness, complex welfare rights, community care, asylum support,  immigration, access to education and employment, healthcare and related matters. 

• Destitution Project - supporting families to overcome extreme food poverty through regular food vouchers, fresh culturally appropriate food, toiletries, and essential household items plus small grants and a free café.

• Rainbow Club Saturday School - improving educational attainment, wellbeing, confidence and self-esteem, and raising the aspirations of disadvantaged primary age children. 

• Allotment of Refuge - a welcoming and integrated community of food growers improving the health, wellbeing and healthy food access of children and adults seeking sanctuary in Lewisham.

• Immigration Project in partnership with Southwark Law Centre - free legal advice and representation to support families to regularise their UK immigration status in the UK.

In addition, we hold a monthly Members Forum, and use the evidence from our frontline work together with the testimony of our members to influence improved policy and practice.

AFRIL is currently in a good position, with the several long-term grants and statutory funding secured, and good relationships with community and individual donors. The Executive Director position represents an exciting opportunity to work with a passionate and highly competent team and the wider community to bring about real, positive change for vulnerable migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees in South East London. 

AFRIL is an equal opportunities employer. We are a diverse staff team and particularly encourage applications from BAME candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates and those with lived experience of asylum/irregular migration. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support our staff to flourish.

We are proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector. Please feel free to use their information and resources which may help in preparing your job application.

Please read full Job Description and Person Specification. Applications will only be accepted through CharityJob - please submit a CV and cover letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) detailing how you meet the person specification. 

Help shape a future where fewer people die by suicide

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At Samaritans, our vision is that fewer people die by suicide. Our ambition is to see rates decline to the lowest ever recorded rates in the UK and Ireland.​

As our next Assistant Director of Policy, Practice & Influencing, you’ll ensure our strategy and plans for policy, public affairs, campaigns, and industry partnerships help our work towards make this ambition a reality.​

This is a rare opportunity to shape national and sector-wide policy at a time when suicide prevention has never been more urgent. Working closely with the Executive Leadership Team and leading a high-performing team across policy, public affairs and industry partnerships, you’ll set the strategic direction for our influencing work.​

This is a high impact senior leadership role with strategic responsibility for influencing Westminster government, industry, and media. We’re looking for a confident strategic thinker and values- led leader, someone who brings clarity, compassion and credibility in equal measure.​

You’ll be a visible ambassador, trusted adviser, and systems thinker, someone who can help shape our Influencing function to be able to drive forwards progress with our mission. ​You’ll help us build new partnerships, and ensure our voice is not only informed by evidence, lived experience, and practice, but is far reaching and amplified ensuring that Samaritans remains at the forefront of influencing much needed change for the future.

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Full outline of the role available in the Job description file here.​

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Contract Terms:​​

• Initially a 12month fixed term contract
• £75,000 - £80,000 per annum with Benefits
• We’re open to how this contract is worked, our full time hours are 35 hours per week, but we are passionate about flexible working, and would support you to work part time, talk to us about your preferences.
• Hybrid working: Linked to our Ewell (Surrey) office with a blend of home working and access to work from our offices in Ewell and London Bridge.
• In-person working: Meeting in person and working collaboratively are things we value. We work in person around 2 days or more per month.

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What you'll lead:​

• Reviewing our function and developing the delivery of our policy and influencing strategy to drive systemic change in suicide prevention
• High-performing teams covering policy, public affairs and industry practice
• Strategic stakeholder relationships across Government, NHS, regulators, industry and third sector
• Ground-breaking thought leadership, advocacy, and responsible media influence
• Integration of lived experience and insight into all influencing activities

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About you: ​

You’re an experienced senior leader in public affairs, policy, or advocacy, with a track record of influencing change at national level. You bring clarity, compassion and credibility to every conversation. You understand the power of collaboration and storytelling, and you’re driven to create lasting impact.

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Your experience includes:​

• Leading multi-disciplinary influencing teams
• Shaping high-quality policy and public affairs strategies
• Navigating complex political and stakeholder environments
• Embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion in all areas of your work
• Making evidence-based decisions underpinned by research and real-world insight
• Inspiring engagement and bringing your team with you on the journey to contribute to your vision for the future.

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Why Samaritans: ​

​You’ll join a values-led organisation with a powerful mission and a collaborative culture. We offer flexible hybrid working, excellent benefits, and the chance to make a tangible difference in suicide prevention across the UK and Ireland.

For further information about Samaritans, including our charity structure, values, employee benefits, and application process, please read our recruitment brochure available here. You can also visit our careers website to access this.

We recognise the enormous benefits and the social justice imperatives of ensuring diversity at every level of our organisation. Samaritans is wholly committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture and environment where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are. To ensure Samaritans is representative of those we support and who support us, we particularly welcome applications from disabled, racialised minority and LGBTQ+ candidates, as these people are under-represented at Samaritans.​

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Ready to lead change and help us save lives?

If you’re a strategic, compassionate leader with a passion for influencing policy and practice at the highest levels, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply, please complete the application questions including those outlined below, and submit your answers along with your CV and an optional brief supporting statement.​

• Why do you want to work for Samaritans leading our influencing work and what do you think might be challenging about the topic? 300 words max
   
• How would you go about creating a culture of influencing within the organisation and what success have you had of doing this? 300 words max
   
• Tell us about a time when you've developed and delivered an influencing strategy - what impact did you have and what learnings were there? 300 words max​

We kindly ask that you don’t rely on AI tools for your application answers, or to generate interview answers. We want to see your own unique ideas and writing skills. We want your application to stand out from the rest and showcase your own strengths.

Applications close: ​9am, Monday 28th July

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Interviews:

Virtual interviews will take place on the 11th and 12th August.

Informal second stage interviews will be held in person at our offices in Ewell on the 13th August. Those invited to attend will be informed on the 12th August. Unfortunately due to staff holidays we may not be able to be as flexible as usual in offering an alternative date so please do hold these dates in your diary, if applying.

As Director of Finance you will lead on all financial aspects of the transtion as the Movement for Reform Judaism and Liberal Judaism merge to form a single unified organsation, Progressive Judaism.  This post will provide crucuial oversight during this period of change, laying foundations for strong financial governance and operational excellence in the new entity.

Working closely with CEOs, senior staff and trustees across both organisations, you will oversee the creation and implementation of robust financial systems, controls and reporting lines whilst ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.  Managing and supporting a finance team, you will ensure continuity of outsourced finance services to existing partner organisaitons during the transition as well as ensure continuity of high-quality financial services across both MRJ and LJ.

As a qualified accountant you will have strong exerpeince in charity finance, including SORP and audit preparation.  A proactive, solutions-focused mindset, with the ability to manage competing priorities is essential.  With proven experience in mangaging organisational change or mergers, you will be an excellent people leader with oustanding communicaiton skills.

So why join us?  You will be part of a progressive, values-driven movement at a historic moment of transformation!  You will work with passionate colleagues and board members, helping to build infrastructure that supports vibrant, inclusive Jewish communities across the UK.

Safe to Learn is a newly established network of teachers, parents, researchers, policymakers, young people and child safeguarding practitioners, working together to end antisemitism in UK schools. We co-produce evidence-based child safeguarding resources, tools and standards to address antisemitism and improve the school environment for all children, educators and support staff.

Safe to Learn is seeking a committed dynamic, and entrepreneurial Director to lead strategy development and implementation in collaboration with the Safe to Learn Independent Advisory Panel. Candidates with the following experience and commitment are encouraged to apply:

1. A demonstrable alignment with our mission and values.
2. A clear commitment to ending antisemitism and understanding of antisemitism, child rights and child safeguarding and their underlying principles.
3. A team-player, with a positive, dynamic and entrepreneurial approach to achieving our mission.
4. Significant experience and understanding of the UK education sector at a senior level.
5. A track-record of delivering high-impact advocacy and communications campaigns to achieve policy objectives.
6. Preferably related to non-discrimination, equality, anti-racism or child rights.
7. Experience of undertaking high-quality research and knowledge production in a related area.
8. High-level relationship management and network-building skills, including significant experience of engaging with policymakers.
9. Experience of developing high-quality resources and educational materials for children and educators.
10. A flexible, participatory and consultative approach with a proven ability to work in collaboration with a high-level advisory panel.
11. Excellent written and verbal communication skills including the ability to engage audiences at all levels.
12. Advocacy, consensus-building and facilitation skills, including diplomacy, tact, non-discrimination and respect for all.

Job Title: Food Education Network Director

Position Type: Paid/Part time

Reports to: Food Education Network Steering Group

Salary: £44,000 FTE equating to £26,400 pro rated

Location: School Food Matters, London TW9 2RD (minimum one day a week in office)

Working Hours: Three days per week

Holiday: 19 days including bank holidays that fall on working days

Pension: School Food Matters matches pension contributions at 7% of pensionable earnings

Contract: Fixed term for one year to be extended with successful fundraising

Background

The Food Education Network (FEN) began in 2020 as a coalition of organisations passionate about improving food education in schools and other settings to influence recommendations for the National Food Strategy.

School Food Matters is now looking for an experienced and passionate leader with skills in advocacy and communications to lead the future development of the Food Education Network and its next stage of influencing government policy around food education from early years into the secondary phase.

Main Responsibilities

The Director will build on the foundations already laid to establish the Food Education Network as a new member organisation to bring the sector together. This role will involve building close relationships with a wide range of external partners to ensure the Network is a credible voice on food education policy and is campaigning with its members to make change happen. The role will be split between governance of the network (40%) and influencing government policy (60%). 

Principle Duties:

· Define and clearly present the top policy priorities around food education and take these to politicians, the media and wider world

· Build close relationships with key decision-makers to influence food education policy

· Raise awareness of food education within the educational community

· Support the steering committee to raise funds

· Grow and solidify the Food Education Network, setting out a one-year plan with clear objectives, purpose, operations and governance

· Continue to build the membership of the Network, reaching out to organisations in the food education sector who can help add to the Network’s voice and evidence

Ideal Candidate

· Can work confidently in a start-up role to grow an organisation almost from scratch

· Solid understanding of public affairs, policymaking, and communications

· Significant experience of working in advocacy at a senior level

· Proven ability to effectively influence a range of political stakeholders and communicate complex policy positions verbally and in writing

· Ability to bring together a range of stakeholders behind a shared strategy, matrix managing multi-disciplinary teams across organisations and managing differences of position and views

· Comfortable with managing multiple workstream, rapidly assessing the changing political environment and adapting strategies accordingly

· Genuine interest in championing food education.

Carers First is a charity that works directly with, and for unpaid carers, providing personalised information, advice and tailored support making it easier for those caring for someone else to continue living their lives to the fullest.

We have a committed, dedicated staff team and you could be just the person we are looking for to join us to make that valuable difference in carer’s lives. We live and work through our values in all that we achieve by being positive, collaborative and ambitious and we have clear plans to scale our reach, support and impact for carers.

About this role

As a Director of Income and Engagement your responsibilities would include: -

• Lead, inspire and manage an integrated Income, Data and Communications Team to diversify and increase income to reach and engage more carers.

• Drive a substantial increase in voluntary income and the charity’s supporter base.

• Lead on communications and campaigns to support delivery of the charity’s strategy. 

• Take an active role as a member of Carers First Leadership Team to shape and implement the charity’s strategy and unlock the whole organisation’s potential.

About you

To be successful in this role you will need -

• Experience in strategic planning with an ability to produce and deliver creative and impactful income generation and communications plans with targets and measures. 

• Demonstrable achievements in planning and delivering significant income growth within a charity, from a diverse range of sources, including trusts and foundations, community fundraising, individual giving, major donors, legacies and corporate partnerships.

• Demonstrable experience in writing compelling, robust and evidence-based proposals and cases for support for funders. 

• Extensive experience of planning and delivering national and local communications/marketing tailored to key audiences, across multiple channels, to increase reach and engagement with key audiences. 

We are looking for passionate people who are committed to the overall aims and objectives of the Charity. Carers First is committed to providing a supportive, vibrant, diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

Carers First can offer you 

In return for your contribution, we have an amazing package of staff benefits including 26 days annual leave entitlement which increases with length of service, flexible working options, paid carers leave, access to our work-place pension, staff discount scheme, employee assistance programme and a Benenden Healthcare package.  Whatever you are aiming to achieve in your career, we are here to encourage, help and support you grow, through our excellent training and development programmes. 

How to apply

To apply for our exciting opportunity and make a real difference to the lives of carers, click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to begin your application. Appointments are subject to Carers First receiving an appropriate disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service that we consider acceptable. 

Interview process 

The closing date for applications is 5pm on 8 August 2025. There will be a two-stage process.

Candidates who have fully evidenced they meet the requirements of the Personal Specification to a satisfactory standard will be long-listed and invited to Stage 1. 

Stage 1: Informal online meeting with the Chief Executive to discuss their application. Please note that applications will be assessed on an ongoing basis and therefore it would be helpful to make an early application. 

Following the informal meeting, candidates will be short-listed and successful candidates will be invited to Stage 2: 

Stage 2: Week commencing 18 August 2025 - formal face-to-face interview in London.  As part of the formal interview, candidates will be asked to give a presentation, and details will be provided in advance. 

Carers First is an Equal Opportunities Employer

Positive      Collaborative      Ambitious

Are you a powerhouse in partnership-led fundraising or business development? We’re recruiting an enthusiastic leader to drive six‑figure, multi‑year deals across major donors, trusts, foundations, and corporates, with an ambitious goal to grow income from £1.6M to £4.5M by FY30, in line with our strategic roadmap.

Job Purpose

As Director of Partnerships, you will:

•  Lead on partnerships fundraising, including major donors, trusts & foundations, and corporates with a focus on securing six-figure multi-year agreements to significantly grow funds raised in this area from £1.6 million to £4.5 million by FY30, in line with Operation Smile UK’s multi-year strategy.
• Foster and facilitate collaboration across different departments within OSUK.
• Ensure business as usual is achieved in line with operational plans, while also exploring and implementing innovative initiatives and campaigns to ensure the future success of partnerships' fundraising.
• Represent OSUK at a leadership level, building relationships with industry peers and peers within the Operation Smile global team to ensure best practice across all areas.

Key Responsibilities

Philanthropy Leadership

• Leads strategy, planning and operation of the major gift, trusts & foundations and corporate giving channels.
• Develops annual business plans and budgets in collaboration with the Executive Director (ED) and Executive Team.  
• Strategically identifies and qualifies potential new donors to grow the prospect pipeline.
• Prepares development communications: solicitation and acknowledgement letters; case statements and proposals; stewardship reports; briefing notes; gift agreements.
• Identifies, cultivates, and solicits major gift commitments from high-net-worth individuals
• Monitors activity of the team, ensuring that benchmarks are achieved, including submission of solicitations, donor contacts and meetings, confirmations of donations, and other performance indicators as related to the team checking their portfolio.
• Provides the organisation with the interpretation of market trends and emerging issues that could impact the organisation’s partnerships fundraising stream.
• Ensures the effective collection of donor information and tracking of points of contact in accordance with best practices; provides and presents statistical analysis to senior leaders.
• Leads on data mining, prospect research, and ensuring the quality of data as it relates to the donors they work with.
• Develops and manages relationships within their own portfolio, personally conducting cultivation visits, solicitation calls and stewardship activities as required.
• Effectively manages fundraising resources and practices ethical fundraising.

HR Management

• Leads, mentors, and manages a team; regular meetings to provide direction, coaching and delegation to the partnerships team.

Financial Management

• Manages and implements approved business plans, ensuring that the annual revenue objectives and budget are met or exceeded, and oversight of the partnership’s departmental budgets.
• Provides leadership in the delivery of statistical analysis, projections, and detailed reports on partnerships fundraising goals and performance that may be used to contribute to the development of internal budgets.

Partnership Sustainability

• Develops donor relationships by researching, sourcing, cultivating, and stewarding existing and potential partners.
• Works to broaden sources of revenue, including working with corporate partners in various industries.
• Develops and implements a stewardship program aimed at cultivating deeper ties with donors and corporate partners.
• Contributes innovative ideas to the development of new strategic partnerships and alternative revenue streams.

Other

• Other duties as assigned by the ED.
• Meetings with OSI and partner countries.
• Board reports/board meetings as required.

Recruitment

We are actively interviewing for this role on a rolling basis as suitable applicants apply. If you're interested in this role, it is advisable to apply as soon as possible.

Disability Confident Committed Employer

We're a Disability Confident Committed employer, so we guarantee an interview to any disabled applicant who meets the minimum requirements for the job.

At Operation Smile UK, we value individuals based on their performance and potential. We're dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that supports everyone's needs. We're happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the application and employment process, and we particularly welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.

If you need this document in a different format, require any adjustments, or need help with your application, please contact us (further details contained within the job description).

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Operation Smile UK knows fundraising could better reflect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people the charity sector supports. If you don’t meet every requirement but believe your transferable skills align with the role, we encourage you to contact us for a conversation. 

We want our team to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, offering equal opportunities to everyone regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

We celebrate diversity and encourage you to bring your authentic self to Operation Smile UK. We are committed to supporting all applicants and ensuring a fair hiring process. All appointments will be made solely on merit, and we are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. 

Job Title: Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships

Location: Hybrid (UK office Cranfield preferred and/or Folkstone, Kent), with UK-wide travel and occasional overseas travel

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £65,000-£70,000

Make a Meaningful Impact

Role Overview: Are you a values-driven leader who thrives on building relationships that leads to lasting, transformative impact? Do you want to transform the lives of isolated people living in some of the world’s most remote places?

Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) is a not-for-profit Christian organisation that uses aviation and technology to bring help, hope and healing to some of the world’s most isolated communities. Operating a fleet of 120 plus light aircraft across more than 25 countries, we are driven by our Christian faith to serve communities cut off by mountains, jungles, swamps and deserts to deliver critical support like medical care, education, disaster relief, Bible and spiritual support, where it’s needed most. 

We are now looking for a Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to lead our ambitious income growth strategy, championing our mission to high net-worth individuals, trusts, and strategic partners who want to see their generosity truly change lives.

What You’ll be doing

Strategic Leadership:

• Design, drive and deliver MAF’s Philanthropy and Partnerships strategy to significantly grow income and deepen engagement
• Identify opportunities for innovation in donor acquisition, engagement, and retention 
• Contribute to organisational strategy as part of the Senior Leadership Team 
• Support the CEO, Trustees and other senior stakeholders in leveraging their networks and relationships 
• Match donor passions with compelling giving propositions—from medical flights to capital appeals 

Team Leadership:

• Lead, develop and support a dedicated team of fundraisers and administrators 
• Foster a high-performance culture grounded in collaboration, ownership, and Christian mission 
• Build a team known for excellence in donor stewardship and partnership development 

Cross-Organisational Collaboration:

• Work closely with Marketing, Programmes, and International Teams to build powerful cases for support and share donor impact 
• Represent Philanthropy and Partnerships at Board level, offering insight, reporting, and influence 

Donor Management:

• Personally manage and grow a portfolio of significant donor relationships (major gifts of £25,000 to £1 million+) 

· Develop strategies to increase fundraising support for people related activities, including our need to drive overseas recruitment and take overall accountability for the staff income budget”.

• Ensure your team delivers an excellent donor experience—tailored, proactive, and relational at every stage of the journey 

Who We’re looking for:

We know that diverse teams make smarter decisions, foster innovation, and better reflect the communities we serve. We warmly welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, especially those who are underrepresented in the charity and international development sectors.

You’ll Bring:

• A track record of success securing major gifts (six and seven figures) from high net-worth individuals, and ideally from trusts and where appropriate institutional donors 
• Significant team leadership experience, with a strong track record of motivating staff, delivering results, and building capability 
• A strategic mindset, able to build and implement long-term growth plans and donor journeys 
• Exceptional networking, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the gravitas to influence and build lasting partnerships 
• Strong financial understanding, budgeting skills, and up-to-date knowledge of fundraising regulation and GDPR 
• A deep passion for international development and Christian mission
• An understanding of how to frame technical, spiritual, and humanitarian work in ways that resonate with different audiences

• A self-starter who is not afraid to challenge the status quo 
• A team player who leverages individuals’ strengths to complete objectives 

Our Values & Christian Commitment

MAF is a Christian organisation and this role requires commitment to our vision, mission, and values. The role holder will need to be a committed and mature evangelical Christian, able to participate fully in the spiritual life of the organisation, including prayer meetings, and be comfortable representing MAF as a faith-based charity.

We recognise and respect the diversity of Christian traditions and expressions of faith. We encourage applications from all individuals who can demonstrate an understanding of, and support for, our Christian ethos.

Why Join MAF?

• A flexible and supportive working culture
• A generous non-contributory pension scheme (10% of salary)
• 22 days annual leave plus office closure at Christmas and bank holidays
• An opportunity to be part of an inspiring, global mission

Practical Details

• Location: MAF UK, 1st Floor Castle House, Castle Hill Avenue, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 2TN or unit 41 Cranfield Innovation Centre, Wharley End, Bedford MK43 0BT
• Working Hours: Full-time, 36+ hours per week (flexible)
• Probation: 6 months (with 3-month review)
• Notice Period: 3 months

How to Apply

We want to ensure our recruitment process is accessible and welcoming to all. If you need any adjustments or support during the process, please let us know. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, heard, and able to thrive.

Are you looking for a varied and rewarding finance role? Join us as Director of Finance and support the transformational work in the social inclusion, education, scientific research, arts, and heritage sectors.

Location: The Peak, 5 Wilton Road, London SW1V 1AP (2-3 days per week in the office)

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 8th September. 

The Sainsbury Family Charitable Trusts (SFCT) is an umbrella organisation that facilitates the work 16 grant-making trusts, along with its associated charitable companies, established by three generations of the Sainsbury family. 

Each Trust is an independent legal entity with a separate focus and Board of Trustees, and in many cases, led by the family member who established it. The Trust works in many fields, including climate and environment, arts and heritage, disability rights, social inclusion, healthcare, science, education, neuroscience, and international development. 

About the role

The Director of Finance will lead the finance team to ensure the effective support for SFCT’s complex requirements across all aspects of finance, investment management, governance, compliance and risk.

The role will report directly to the CEO, providing financial and operational oversight, as well as high-level strategic engagement with senior stakeholders. This will require you to establish effective working relationships across the office and with family members and Trustees.

The role is part of the Head of Central Services group, working closely with the Head of Finance (Gatsby) to play a key role in decision making and delivering shared ways of working across the group, strengthening cross-functional collaboration and continuous improvement to ensure that support for our Trusts and charitable organisations remains fit for the future.

This is a varied and complex role that covers three main areas of work.

1. Leading a team that is responding to changing needs from internal customers to ensure high performance.
2. Leading projects with a focus on continuous improvement.
3. Proactively supporting family members and trustees in managing investments.

The role’s challenge and variety come from a mix of central and tailored support for the entities that SFCT supports.

Who we are looking for

This role is a fully functional finance role with multiple entities that require support. You will be an experienced Finance Director (and/or perhaps a CFO of an endowment-funded foundation) with the people skills to lead and develop a large finance team, as well as the skills to manage a complex mix of stakeholders.

As a qualified accountant, you will be someone with knowledge and experience in charity finance, who also has a commercial focus and likely has had a stint in industry. Experience in managing a complex finance function and being proactive when it comes to change is essential, as well as the ability to inspire and develop a team to deliver high performance and continuous improvement.

You will enjoy working with people and come with a broad set of experiences. Experience in investments would be an advantage, as would any other additional areas of expertise. This role is a platform for value-added support.

Please click 'Apply on website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 8th September. 

Director of Development (Part time)

£70K FTE, 2 year fixed-term contract, 1 day per week 

We are looking for a senior philanthropy professional with a strong interest in music and a proven track record in growing and building high level funding relationships, to work part time to build and engage a committed network of major individual donors to fund the long-term sustainability of La Nuova Musica (LNM) and fulfilment of its creative vision. 

Welcome from the CEO

La Nuova Musica is a leading ensemble in its chosen field of music from the 17th and 18th centuries with a focus on the voice. This is a unique opportunity to shape future opportunities for LNM. You will be joining us at a pivotal time as the orchestra builds on its current success with a board that is fully engaged and eager to establish a professional, strategic approach to philanthropy. LNM deeply values the role of philanthropy, particularly as public funding is highly constrained.

You will have the full backing of the CEO, the Board and the Artistic Director who are ready to work closely with you to build and steward transformative philanthropic relationships that align with our artistic and strategic ambitions.

You will also have access to an influential network and be introduced to and collaborate with our most senior philanthropic supporters. While the number of supporters is currently small, they are among the most respected and well-connected individuals in the arts. 

We believe that this is a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact and, while our philanthropic foundations are still developing, they are promising. The Board understands that meaningful, long-term philanthropic growth requires time, trust, and strategic investment—and they are committed to supporting you on that journey.

About La Nuova Musica

La Nuova Musica is an early music ensemble led by its founder and Artistic Director, David Bates, and known for spirited performances that receive widespread acclaim from audiences and five-star reviews from the press. 

“If anyone can be relied on to make Baroque music sound newly hatched, it’s the aptly named La Nuova Musica. They dust out the tiniest corners of phrasing and embellish the music so that it sounds more dizzy with life than you’ve ever heard before”. The Times

LNM appears regularly at the Wigmore Hall, St Martin in the Fields, the London Handel Festival as well as festivals around the UK. They made their BBC Proms debut in 2022 with a performance of Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas described as “a superbly evocative night” in The Times and “a musical tour de force” in Opera Today. In 2024 they appeared for the first time at the Grange Festival in a series of performances of Monteverdi’s opera, The Coronation of Poppea, hailed by Opera Today as “truly a five-star production, and easily one of the best interpretations of Monteverdi or a Baroque opera I have seen.'

LNM has also appeared in concert halls and festivals across Europe including the Handel Festival Halle, La Seine Musicale Paris, the Göttingen International Handel Festival, the Salzburg Festival, the Innsbruck Festival of Early Music, and the Steffani Festival in Hanover.

Their reputation is enhanced by a series of award-winning recordings for Pentatone and Harmonia Mundi. Their latest recording of Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas was selected as one of two opera recordings for the prestigious Abbiata award in Italy, alongside a recording of Katya Kabanova conducted by Simon Rattle with the LSO.  It was one of Gramophone’s recordings of the year and BBC R3’s CD Review chose it as their Recording of the Week. “the way it zings off the page bristling with dramatic life and energy from the first bars, and with a range of voices and imaginative instrumental accompaniment, fills it with incident and colour”.BBC Radio 3.

An earlier release, Handel’s Unsung Heroes, was selected by BBC Music Magazine as their Recording of the Month and awarded 5 stars as “a stunning collection of Handel opera numbers. For originality, risk-taking and erudition, it towers above its predecessors. The project is a heroic achievement for all involved.” 

La Nuova Musica’s strategic goals

We are bursting with ideas and feel we have so much more that we want to achieve. We perform regularly at the Wigmore Hall in London and are in the process of establishing a presence in Salisbury (David Bates’ hometown) and in Oxford, where we are working with an excellent chamber choir of young amateur singers, Schola Cantorum.  By giving the same concert in all these cities, we make best use of our artistic and financial resources at the same time as broadening our reach.

We also aim to deliver new strands of activity. One is relaxed concerts for anyone who needs an informal setting to enjoy our performances. The other offers high quality professional experience to singers and players from the modern instrument world in understanding baroque and early classical music. This is important for several reasons, not least to build and strengthen the UK pool of musicians for the future to preserve this repertoire. 

We receive no public funding and are only able to continue thanks to the support of generous individuals who love what we do and want us to do more. As is the case in our sector, ticket sales do not cover the cost of performances. We also need to pay our administrative team for any activity to take place at all. We currently operate thanks to a small but highly experienced and committed team who work remotely, at significantly reduced rates, because of their belief in David Bates and La Nuova Musica. To achieve our vision, we need to secure ongoing funding for core running costs (approximately £120k per year) as well as additional funding for specific artistic projects and other activity (approximately £120k per year, though this will vary from year to year).

Thanks to the fantastic support of generous individuals, LNM can engage with some ambitious projects such as Handel’s Giustino, our first co-production with the Royal Ballet and Opera which takes place in October 2025. We have successfully raised the money required for this and can now put in place some important and ambitious projects for the next three years. 

These include:

·Promoting two concerts each year in St Martin in the Fields, which entails risk on a larger scale than the Wigmore Hall where we are engaged (paid) to perform. (£15k p.a.)

·Developing further our work in Salisbury with two annual concerts which feed off our regular series in the Wigmore Hall and St Martin in the Fields. (£12k p.a.)

·Developing our relationships in Oxford along the lines of Salisbury (see above) (12k p.a.) 

·Developing a relaxed concert strand where performances are specially prepared and delivered to suit anyone who needs an informal setting to enjoy our performances.  (10k per run of events)

·Grow existing strands of work which provide experience for amateur singers, young professional singers and players in informed baroque and early classical performances. (15k per run of events)

·Recording some of our best work to act as a calling card with promoters and the public. (£40- 50k per recording)

·Build on our existing work to make and keep early music relevant, thus protecting its cultural heritage, by commissioning new work for the ensemble which combines the sounds and techniques of early music with that of living composers. (£15-20k per commission)

The Role

Role Dimensions

·To deliver excellence in supporter stewardship, building commitment and increasing funding and support from current LNM major individual supporters

·To research and lead a prospect pipeline for new five and six figure multi-year commitments

·To design and execute special high-level events for prospect/donor cultivation and development

·To develop and write compelling propositions for key trusts and foundations

·To ensure all fundraising is conducted as per the Codes of Fundraising Practice and other regulatory guidelines

Essential Experience and Skills

oProven delivery performance at a significant giving level, both individually and leading others to achieve (including Trustees and senior leadership)

oAbility to build long term HNW relationships, alongside several personal skills including being persuasive, receptive, inquisitive, dynamic, politically savvy and inspirational

oProven experience of building and leading excellent donor stewardship programmes at a senior level, including high level implementation of special events, and proposition development for trust and foundations

oUnderstanding and knowledge of key fundraising regulations with experience of implementing process and systems required to deliver best practice.

Reporting Structures 

The Director of Development is a member of the senior management team and will report to the CEO John Summers, whilst working closely with the Artistic Director, David Bates, and Finance Director, Val Hawkin.

The entire team work remotely and meet up on-line and in person when required.

The Director of Development line manages a part time administrator (Job Description available on request)