Director jobs in watford

The Head of Finance is a key member of Tara Theatre’s senior management team, overseeing the company’s financial processes and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. They will report to Alys Beider, Tara’s new Executive Director and Joint Chief Executive and support with strategic long-term financial and business planning as well as annual and quarterly budgeting.

They are responsible for maintaining the company accounts, preparing quarterly management accounts, cashflow forecasts and financial reports and analysis for the executive team and the board of trustees.

Tara Theatre is a company limited by guarantee and a charity. It has two trading subsidiaries, Tara Productions and Tara Enterprises. We currently have an annual turnover of circa £1 million. We manage our finances and payroll in-house, currently using Xero.

As our Head of Finance, you may have a background in the arts and culture sector, however we are open to a range of skillsets gained from working in business or charity environments and encourage applications from individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds and lived experiences.

We are open to the potential for the role to be part-time working four days per week (salary on a pro rata basis).

We welcome applications from candidates who wish to work in a flexible working pattern (for example around caring responsibilities or access requirements relating to a disability).

The Training Lead - Projects & DFTP (Digital First Transformation Programme) will design, develop and deliver training strategies and plans that successfully support and empower stakeholders to adopt new systems, products, processes and ways of working that align to the MHFA England strategy. The postholder will provide business partnering support to all directorates, working with directors, strategic leads, business SMEs and external stakeholders to identify training needs that will lead to high levels of change readiness and adoption. The central focus will be the implementation of MHFA England’s Digital First Transformation Programme.

The role will be involved in producing and analysing data to inform and feed into the People team strategy, especially for the first three months. Working closely with the Head of People, Wellbeing & Equity and the wider People team and covering for each other as needed, this role will lead on allocated projects pertaining to organisational and individual learning. The role holder will work with the internal stakeholders on developing and delivering interventions to improve communication with, and engagement of, staff and support wellbeing of colleagues. Equity will be embedded in all aspects of the work of the People team to foster an inclusive environment for everyone in the MHFA England community.

Please refer to the Job Description for full details of the role.

About MHFA England

MHFA England is a social enterprise and the leading provider of mental health skills and awareness training courses in England. Our vision is to create a nation where everyone's mental health matters by creating mentally healthy workplaces where people, communities, and businesses thrive.

Looking after you 

Wellbeing is at the heart of all that we do and say, we are friendly and supportive organisation. We are committed to rewarding our employees with competitive pay, a flexible and supportive workplace, opportunities to grow and develop, and our promise that we will put your wellbeing first.

Associate Director of Performance & Programme Delivery

Central London (hybrid, min 2 days per week in St James’s Park)

Salary: £83,538 + benefits (permanent, full time)

Parkinson’s UK are pushing for better, right here, right now. Everyone in the organisation has a crucial role to play as both drivers and enablers of change.  Join them to play your part in making this leading charity Fit for the Future.

Parkinson’s UK is the UK’s leading charity for people with Parkinson’s.  A growing organisation with 605 employees, 4000 volunteers and a projected income of £50m+.  They have a proud history dating back nearly 60 years and are now on a mission to be fit for the future, ensuring the infrastructure, culture, and operating model to drive even more impact for people with Parkinson’s, both now and in the future.

The Operations team plays a key role in driving that mission. Over the coming years they’re modernising systems and processes to ensure they’re fit for now, as well as in the future.  Much of this work is already underway, and they’re now ready to start an exciting new chapter.

They have been working to get themselves in the best shape to deliver that progress over the next few years, and are looking for ambitious, driven, and purpose-led people to join their team of ‘relentless doers’.  To hear more about these exciting new changes and how you can play your part in Parkinson’s UK story, click here to hear from Ben Clarkson, Chief Finance and Operating Officer

About the role

You’ll play a key role in shaping and delivering the charity’s strategy, ensuring all activities are aligned with its mission and objectives. You will focus on establishing project and performance frameworks, measuring impact, and driving continuous improvement across the organisation.

You’ll ensure that KPIs and outcomes are consistently met, aligning with the charity’s strategic aims and working closely with senior leadership and teams to optimise performance and impact.

What you’ll do

• Build and oversee a high-performing project delivery team, focusing on successful and efficient project execution across the charity.
• Establish and oversee a new PMO function, creating governance and performance frameworks, processes, and tools that ensure effective project delivery and performance measurement.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to define and track KPIs, ensuring they reflect the charity’s goals and measure both project performance and impact effectively.
• Lead cross-directorate collaboration, fostering strategic alignment and driving organisational impact.

What you’ll bring

• Extensive experience in project management, performance monitoring, and impact evaluation, ideally within the charity or non-profit sector
• Proven track record in building and leading teams focused on project delivery, PMO functions. A solid understanding of performance management is essential, and risk management is desirable
• Significant expertise in establishing, creating and implementing project governance frameworks, tools, and templates to support successful project execution
• Solid understanding of key performance indicators (KPIs) and impact measurement techniques, with the ability to translate data into actionable insights for senior leadership

If this opportunity sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you! If you would like more information about the role, please contact Peter Hawkes at Ivy Rock Partners.

Closing date: 8th August

Informal discussion to be held from 1st August

A Finance Officer is required within our vital and growing community organisation to; manage financial systems, create and report on finance to the trustee board and stakeholders of the Loughborough Community Centre.

What you would do:

Oversight and day to day management of the organisational financial systems, including:

• Using Quick Books, spreadsheets to track expenses and company spending.
• Company payroll, tax and financial auditing.
• Keeping well-organised files and records of business financial activity.
• Archive of reports, receipts, and other financial evidence.
• Keeping financial databases up to date.
• Interacting with customers either on the phone or in person.
• Following up on business financial communications, billing, and ordering.
• Communicating with funders, suppliers and vendors.
• Company Invoicing.
• Using Quick Books, spreadsheets to track expenses and company spending.
• Collecting and inputting company data within the financial systems.
• Learning about the company's mission and available products/services.
• Assist with financial technical support.
• Acting as a personal assistant to the Director and/or board of LCC for financial matters.
• Giving feedback on finance efficiency and suggesting possible improvements.

Are you passionate about the wellbeing of people and the planet?

Can you engage people through effective communications and events?

If so, we’d love to hear to hear from you.

We believe in people and the planet thriving together. We want to see a world where thriving is possible - because society is structured to support people's wellbeing rather than to undermine it. We're building a network of wellbeing changemakers who share our vision.

We're now recruiting for a Network Development Manager to oversee our relationships with our followers, including by rolling out a new Ambassador programme. Working from home, somewhere in the UK, flexibly for three days a week, the successful candidate will play a major role at the heart of a growing movement to embed wellbeing in our economy and our society.

They will be a good team player with experience of engaging networks of passionate people. They will have excellent spoken and written communications skills and a track record in organising exciting online and in-person events. Some fundraising experience would be an advantage, but above all, they will have a passion for wellbeing - of people and of the planet.  

Note

• We are looking to ensure the diversity of the staff group reflects the diversity of people in the UK and would welcome applications from people in all social groups.
• We offer 28 days paid leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays and membership of our pension scheme.
• All appointments to the Network of Wellbeing are subject to a six-month probation period.

Admin Officer – Resilient Water Accelerator

Contract: Permanent, Full time, 35 hours per week

Location: London, United Kingdom subject to right to work.
UK hybrid working – a minimum of 40 % of working time is spent face-to-face (London office, external meetings or travel).

60/40 hybrid working at WaterAid means roughly three days wherever you work best and two days together in person.

Salary: £33,223 - £34,894 per year with excellent benefits

Change starts with water. Change starts with you.

Every day, millions of people live without clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid exists to change that – for everyone, everywhere. Join us, and your energy will help unlock people’s potential and create a fairer future.

About Resilient Water Accelerator (RWA)

The climate crisis is a water crisis. Around the world, people are feeling the effects of climate change through water, including flooding, droughts, sea level rise, and irregular rainfall. Climate change is affecting seasonal and long-term water availability, meaning we can no longer rely on rain, river flows and aquifers. The Global Commission on the Economics of Water has said that the world is facing the prospect of a 40% shortfall in freshwater by 2030; and water and wastewater contribute 10% of global emissions. To adapt to this new reality and build resilience to the impacts of climate change, we need to re-think how water resources are managed and delivered for different users over time. This provides an exciting opportunity to rethink how we create investment opportunities that promote resilient water management for people and the planet.

The Resilient Water Accelerator is designed to increase the flow of private and public finance into water projects that help the most climate-vulnerable communities build resilience to climate change. Despite the high need, only 3% of total climate finance flows go towards water. Our mission is to demonstrate the business case for increased and enhanced public and private investment in water-related deals in emerging economies that strengthen resilience for climate-vulnerable communities and are replicable so that millions more can benefit. We are working to increase the speed, scale and replicability of water investment by creating a pipeline of bankable projects, bringing together the right mix of financing with the right commercial structures and partners, and supporting improvements in the enabling environment. We are undertaking work to understand local markets and context, develop templates, shared resources, and data, to build proof of concept projects to provide a springboard for increased action on resilient water. And we are developing thought leadership on how to make water more investible.

About the RWA team

The Resilient Water Accelerator (RWA), wholly owned subsidiary of WaterAid, is a global organisation that aims to: 

• Address the climate impacts on water to strengthen resilience in vulnerable communities.
• Secure greater investment from public and private sources in water infrastructure and services. 
• Ensure this work can be replicated and scaled to increase long term water security. 

To achieve this, we work with policy makers, experts, investors and communities to identify critical climate risks to water and shape a business case for priority projects. 

We work to ensure these projects act as positive examples of a new approach to programme development in the water and climate sectors. 

This role will play an essential part in delivering our international programme of work. 

About the role

As our Admin Officer, you will play a critical role in our Global Platform team — helping to link the different parts of the Resilient Water Accelerator (RWA) together and co-ordinate with our partners around the world to drive sustainable change.

The Resilient Water Accelerator is a newly formed not-for-profit organisation, which, as a wholly owned subsidiary of WaterAid, means both organisations retain a close and collaborative relationship. This is an exciting opportunity to be on the ground floor as we build new structures and culture for this unique startup organisation, as it works towards delivering on its mission. 

In this role, you will:

Provide support and solutions as the RWA puts in place new structures and systems

o You will work with SMT to explore the practical and regulatory steps towards building our own high-performing systems. 

o Help develop solutions to interfacing with WaterAid’s systems (e.g. financial and HR). 

Take the lead in engaging with WaterAid’s finance processing systems

o Process payments 

o Develop contracts and due diligence 

o Prepare invoices and work with the team to develop budget forecasts 

o Ensure quality and consistency of our financial reporting 

Support SMT and wider team

o Help with the monitoring and co-ordination of SMT meetings, action and responsibilities 

o Support planning and project management across the team

o Support in the design and maintenance of a shared platform with core information and contacts, key information and core RWA documents.

o Provide support with diary management (team and individuals)

Support Hiring and Training 

o Support the recruitment and onboarding process for new staff, organising recruitment campaigns, working with WaterAid’s People Team, and liaising with candidates. 

o Supporting staff activities, including logistics for travel and accommodation for training, aways days and in-person meetings 

Logistics 

o Provide support to the Chief Executive of the RWA 

o Provide support to the newly established RWA Board of Directors, through the Board Secretariat function 

o Work with colleagues across the RWA team to process and manage information

Requirements

To be successful, you will need:

• Ability to act on your own initiative to ensure momentum of our work is maintained 
• Strong attention to detail 
• Strong team player and willingness to be flexible to respond to changing priorities. 
• Ability to produce high quality written work in English with a strong eye for detail 
• Experience of diary management and event co-ordination
• Experience in administration – contracts, payments and project management procedures 
• Passionate about climate adaptation and water security, and driven to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable communities 

Although not essential, we’d prefer you to have:

• Knowledge of project management tools or design software
• Experience working with a consortium of partners from both the public and private sectors
• Experience of providing support to a Board of Directors.
• Experience working in or closely with one of the RWA’s priority countries (Bangladesh, Brazil, Malawi, Morocco, and Nigeria)

Closing date: Applications close 12:00 PM UK time on Monday 4 August 2025. Interviews are expected to take place week commencing 11 and/or 18 August 2025.

How to apply: Click Apply to complete the pre-screening question and upload your CV and cover letter

Can I use Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in my application?

At WaterAid, we strongly advise against using AI technology at any stage of the recruitment process. Our goal is to ensure a fair and transparent process that provides every applicant with an equal opportunity to succeed. We value hearing about your unique experiences and perspectives in your application, and, if shortlisted, during the interview as well.

Pre‑employment screening

To apply for this role, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the respective country. All pre-employment checks will be carried out according to local law and WaterAid’s Safer Recruitment policy. All UK based roles require a basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Benefits

• 36 days’ holiday (including 8 Bank Holidays)
• Option to buy an extra 5 days’ annual leave
• Employer pension contribution up to 10 %
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Season ticket loan
• Free annual eye tests
• ‘Give as you Earn’ charitable giving scheme
• Enhanced parental leave (maternity, adoption/surrogacy, shared parental and paternity)
• Sabbaticals
• One paid volunteer day each year

Our Global Commitment:

Our people promise

We will work with passion and focus to make sure everyone everywhere has clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid is a place of purpose – where people have a real commitment and shared responsibility for the impact we have. We are a global community with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, motivated by inspiring, stimulating work. We are determined to be a place where people feel safe and able to contribute their voice and truly live our values.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions, ways of life and status. This includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, caste, colour, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, disability status, neurodiversity, age, marital and family status, sexual orientation and gender identity, health status, place of residence, economic and social situation.

Safeguarding

We are committed to protecting everyone we come into contact with. We have a zero- tolerance approach to abuse of power, privilege or trust across our global work, and to any form of inappropriate behaviour, discrimination, abuse, bullying, harassment, or exploitation. Safeguarding the people and communities we work with, our staff, volunteers and anyone working on our behalf is our top priority, and we take our responsibilities extremely seriously. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks (which can include counterterrorism, safeguarding and criminal records checks).

Together, we’ll change the world through water.

Join us and be part of the change!

About the role

This is a hugely exciting time to be joining Galop, with flexibility to think long term about how best to drive change and do something new and different. Whilst Galop has always advocated for policy change, this role is part of a new, growing team specifically focused on evidence-based policy change. The team is led by the Director of Policy and Evidence and composed of a Research Manager, Survivor Engagement Manager, Research Officer and this Policy Officer role.

We are building an effective Policy and Evidence team, rooted in frontline insights, a formal research programme, and opportunities to make change happen for LGBT people at a pivotal time. We work alongside Government ministers and officials, parliamentarians and regional authorities at the highest level to make evidence-based policy change.

As the Policy Officer, you will report to the Director of Policy and Evidence and work alongside the team to deliver Galop’s policy priorities, with support. You will also work closely with the Communications and Fundraising team and our Services.

You will be expected to:

• Undertake desk-based research, alongside using Galop’s own research, to support evidence-based policy analyses and positions.
• Draft policy briefings, research summaries, consultation responses, letters, reports, newsletters and stakeholder communications
• Research and track policy developments, political landscape changes, and other relevant areas to identify opportunities to further Galop’s objectives.
• Monitor and report on parliamentary activities, government announcements, and consultations relevant to LGBT victims/survivors.
• Assist the team to deliver funded influencing projects such as a mapping study of LGBT accessible support services across London, by supporting the Director to work with decision makers to make system-change happen across London.
• Support collaboration across Galop to ensure policy positions reflect the lived experiences of our frontline services and service users.
• Help build and maintain relationships with stakeholders, including civil servants, parliamentarians, and external partners.
• Any other duties as needed.

For more information on this role please download the attached job description.

Location: Galop’s offices are located in London. Hybrid working is available.
Hours: Full Time (35 hours per week) We are open to flexibility on full-time hours.
Contract: Permanent
Reports to: Director of Policy and Evidence
Salary: £28,876.12 per year including London Weighting.

Closing Date and Applications

Applications should be submitted by 10:00am on August 4.
Interviews will be held on August 18.

REF-222679

Chief People Officer

We are looking for a Chief People Officer to lead the strategic development and operational delivery of the organisation’s people agenda

If you have experience of driving excellence across learning and organisational development, recruitment and shared services, employee relations, equality, diversity and inclusion… then we want to hear from you!

Join a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. Every year, the organisation supports thousands of people through its network of groups, services and helplines. The vision is for equality, fair treatment and maximum quality of life for everyone affected by mental illness. Help reach that goal by applying today.

Position: Chief People Officer

Location: London/Hybrid

Hours: Full time, flexible working available

Salary: £85,453 to £102,956 based on experience

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: 5pm, 4 August 2025

Interviews: Interviews will be held in two stages: the first stage with our Executive Team and second stage with the Chief Executive and representatives from our Board of Trustees. Interviews will take place weeks commencing 1 and 8 September 2025.

Candidates may be asked to complete psychometric assessments as part of the recruitment process.

The Role

As the Chief People Officer, you will lead the strategic development and operational delivery of the organisation’s people agenda, with responsibility for driving excellence across learning and organisational development, recruitment and shared services, employee relations, equality, diversity and inclusion, as well as involvement and volunteering.

You will play a pivotal role in cultivating a high-performance, values-driven culture that empowers employees, fosters inclusion, and enhances engagement across all levels of the organisation, from frontline care to national campaigning. This role is a key member of that team, working alongside the Deputy Chief Executive, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Finance Officer, and Chief Business Improvement and Technology Officer.

Together, you will shape the organisation’s strategy, culture, and delivery.

If you are excited by the opportunity to lead across people and organisational development and to be part of a collaborative leadership team, then we would love to hear from you.

About You

We are looking for a Chief People Officer with the ability to shape and execute an integrated people and organisational development strategy that supports both care outcomes and social change. Someone who can demonstrate a commitment to inclusive leadership and the ability to foster an inclusive organisational culture.

You will have:

• Substantial senior leadership experience in people management, organisational development, and EDI within a care, support, health, or social impact organisation.
• Proven ability to develop and implement people strategies that enhance organisational performance and employee experience.
• Strong track record of leading EDI initiatives that promote inclusivity and diversity.
• Experience in organisational development, including change management, learning and development, and performance management.
• Demonstrated success in building and leading multidisciplinary teams across HR, EDI, and organisational development functions.
• Membership of CIPD.

About the Organisation

Work for an organisation that research shows is one of the most trusted major voluntary sector brands.  In a rapidly changing world, the charity brings together delivery of care and support services, policy influencing, and campaigning – with people living with mental illness at the heart of what they do.  The charity supports tens of thousands of people every year to get through crises, live independently and feel that they do not have to face mental illness alone. For over 50 years, the charity has campaigned for the rights of people severely affected by mental illness whilst working tirelessly to ensure that the people they support have a voice at all levels of the mental health system.

Benefits include:

• Employer funded pension
• Flexible working
• Life assurance
• Eye care vouchers
• Training opportunities
• 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 plus Bank Holidays
• Rewards, benefits and recognition platform
• Employee assistance programme
• Your birthday off
• Plus many more great benefits…

“It feels very rewarding to be part of such a meaningful organisation where everyone is valued and has the opportunity to make a difference” Current staff member

We actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex and (asexual) (LGBTQIA+), people with a disability, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds.

You may also have experience in areas such as People, HR, Human Resources, Personnel, Head of People, Head of HR, Head of Human Resources, Head of Personnel, Director of People, Director of HR, Director of Human Resources, P Director of personnel, People Director, HR Director, Human Resources Director, Personnel Director. #INDNFP

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

We're the UK's specialist blood cancer charity and our vision is clear: we’re here to beat blood cancer. We fund world-class research; provide information and support to patients and their loved ones; and raise awareness of blood cancer. 

The Finance directorate ensures Blood Cancer UK is financially sustainable, well-governed and equipped to make informed decisions in support of its mission through providing robust financial stewardship, strategic insights and rigorous risk and legal oversight.  

The FP&A and Business Partnering team plays a key role in enabling strategic and operational decision-making by providing strategic financial insight across all directorates, delivering the organisation’s budgeting, forecasting and performance reporting.  

You’ll play a central role in shaping how we invest in fundraising to drive sustainable income growth—balancing financial insight with innovation and ambition. You’ll act as a critical friend to the Director of Engagement and Deputy Director of Fundraising. Whether it's modelling the impact of potential investments, supporting funding bids with financial projections, or building a more effective budgeting process, you’ll have the opportunity to influence key decisions that directly support our charitable aims. 

Office attendance is flexible and based on the requirements of the role. While there are no fixed rules, we expect an average of at least one day a week in the office, depending on business needs. 

In your supporting statement (cover letter), please outline how you meet the specific requirements, skills, and experience set out in the job description and person specification. Your supporting statement doesn’t have to be too long—1 to 2 pages is ideal. 

First stage interviews are expected to take place on week commencing 4th August with second stage interviews expected to take place on week commencing 11th August 

Executive Personal Assistant - 3-Month Contract
Location: Central London / Hybrid
Start Date: Immediate
Duration: 3 months
Hourly Rate: £31/hour

We are seeking an experienced Executive Assistant who has supported at a senior level to join a respected not-for-profit organisation. Reporting to an incoming Director, this role suits someone confident, proactive, highly organised, who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is comfortable juggling priorities and dealing with senior-level internal and external stakeholders.

Key Duties

• Extensive Diary and Inbox management
• Being a gatekeeper for the director and triaging their inbox
• Attending and administering a variety of committees, including minute taking at a high level, with a quick turnaround time, collating & preparing papers and packs for the committees.
• Attending and administering the weekly team SLT meeting
• Working alongside the other senior Executive Assistants, booking both national and international travel - including accommodation and flights.
• Responding and liaising on behalf of the director, dealing with senior level internal and externalStakeholders, including managing inbound queries.

What you'll need to succeed

• High level experience working as an Executive Assistant at Director or C-Suite level
• Experience working within Higher Education, Government, Local Authorities, Membership organisations is preferable.
• Extensive Diary and Inbox management.
• Experience of arranging international and national travel.
• Experience in support committee meetings
• Experience and evidence of dealing with senior-level stakeholders, ideally within the public sector or at academic level.
• High level verbal and written English skills
• Strong interpersonal skills as you will be working as part of a large team
• Flexibility and adaptability will be very key in this role, as you will be dealing with a range of personalities and in different environments.

What you'll get in return
Flexible working options could be available after the first couple of weeks.

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

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

Executive Personal Assistant - 3-Month Contract
Location: Central London / Hybrid
Start Date: Immediate
Duration: 3 months
Hourly Rate: £31/hour

We are seeking an experienced Executive Assistant who has supported at a senior level to join a respected not-for-profit organisation. Reporting to an incoming Director, this role suits someone confident, proactive, highly organised, who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is comfortable juggling priorities and dealing with senior-level internal and external stakeholders.

Key Duties

• Extensive Diary and Inbox management
• Being a gatekeeper for the director and triaging their inbox
• Attending and administering a variety of committees, including minute taking at a high level, with a quick turnaround time, collating & preparing papers and packs for the committees.
• Attending and administering the weekly team SLT meeting
• Working alongside the other senior Executive Assistants, booking both national and international travel - including accommodation and flights.
• Responding and liaising on behalf of the director, dealing with senior level internal and externalStakeholders, including managing inbound queries.

What you'll need to succeed

• High level experience working as an Executive Assistant at Director or C-Suite level
• Experience working within Higher Education, Government, Local Authorities, Membership organisations is preferable.
• Extensive Diary and Inbox management.
• Experience of arranging international and national travel.
• Experience in support committee meetings
• Experience and evidence of dealing with senior-level stakeholders, ideally within the public sector or at academic level.
• High level verbal and written English skills
• Strong interpersonal skills as you will be working as part of a large team
• Flexibility and adaptability will be very key in this role, as you will be dealing with a range of personalities and in different environments.

What you'll get in return
Flexible working options could be available after the first couple of weeks.

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

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

We're looking for a Head of Fundraising with a focus on Trusts and Foundations to help take our income generation to the next level. The person in this role will lead and grow our income from major trusts and foundations, overseeing our existing portfolio while actively developing new, strategic opportunities.

This is a key leadership role in a small but ambitious fundraising team, with a focus on securing large-scale, multi-year grants. You'll write compelling bids and proposals, steward relationships with funders and senior stakeholders, and work closely with colleagues across the organisation to shape exciting, fundable projects.

You’ll line manage our Trusts and Reporting Officer and help create a clear, sustainable pathway for future growth – with a particular emphasis on building our capacity to operate at a medium-sized charity level.

You’ll report to the Director of Fundraising and play a vital part in a team that fuels the mission and vision of XLP.

Who we are

Chefs in Schools is a young, ambitious charity that’s rapidly growing. Our mission is to improve kids' health, through improving school food & food education. Working in areas of high deprivation, we support and train schools and their kitchen teams to serve the best, freshest and tastiest food possible, alongside meaningful food education. We share our learning and resources freely, aiming to inspire and enable others to follow our lead.

We’re backed by some of the biggest names in food and have ambitious targets to ensure every child has access to incredible school food and food education, setting them up for life with the skills and knowledge to feed themselves well.

About you and the role

This is a pivotal role, at a pivotal moment for us. We are entering a critical growth phase, which includes rapidly expanding our own operations and managing significant external partnership. As Head of Finance & Systems, you will be accountable for ensuring we have the right systems and structures in place to grow at pace without detriment to good governance.

The purpose of this role is to lead on our finance strategy, and ensure all of our systems, reporting and processes are helping to drive forward the charity and deliver on our objectives at scale. You will work closely with the Chief Executive and Directors to ensure that financial planning is effective and supported by accurate data analysis. You will report directly to Trustees as required and ensure that the highest standards of transparency and probity are maintained. 

You will be joining the team during a period of growth in the size and complexity of our delivery. We currently have 24 employees and anticipate growing significantly in the next twelve months. You will have a crucial role in shaping our systems and processes to ensure we can scale effectively, both our existing programmes and a new membership-based programme that is in development. We’re looking for an experienced finance professional with an interest in effectively using technology and systems to drive efficiency, without compromising on accuracy or compliance. 

You will oversee all financial administration, ensuring this is carried out proficiently and in line with all legal and regulatory requirements, including ultimate responsibility for ensuring that all statutory filings are made accurately and on time. Your role will also encompass ensuring that we operate within legal & regulatory frameworks and stay up to date with changes in relevant legislation.

The responsibilities, skills and experience listed below are intended to give you an idea of what we need for this role. If you don’t meet every requirement, but feel as though you would be able to work with us to deliver the majority of them, we would urge you to apply anyway. We are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and for us the most important ‘experience’ is passion for our mission. You may be just the right candidate for this, or other roles.  

We want to get to know you at the interview and understand we can do this best if you’re at ease. We’re an inclusive employer and work hard to create a welcoming working environment for everyone, including appointing a neurodiversity champion to help us identify how we can make our work environment work for everyone. If you need adjustments to the interview process please let us know.

As we work with children & young people, an offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and DBS clearance, in line with our safeguarding policy.  

Key responsibilities:

• Developing a comprehensive financial strategy that supports the delivery of the charity’s objectives and activities

• Developing our systems strategy, including reviewing suitability of our current systems (Quickbooks for accountancy, Beacon CRM, PLEO for expenses management, Survey Monkey for data collection etc. ) and ensuring optimal use of systems, maximising automation, and using AI where appropriate.

• Constantly seeking to develop and improve the organisation’s financial systems, policies and procedures to promote dynamic, best practice and up-to-date application of tools, systems and approaches

• Leading and developing the Finance and Office Manager and ensuring effective support from the external book-keeping team.

• Lead on creation of the annual budget, working closely with Directors.

• Advising the Chief Executive, team and Trustees, ensuring that benefits and risks of decisions are fully considered and fit with the overall financial strategy

• Oversee sound financial administration, management and governance across the organisation, ensuring robust financial controls in place and operating effectively.

• Provide leadership and guidance to all things finance related, providing mentoring and support to the team, and coaching on financial awareness. 

• Accountability for monitoring that the organisation’s services are, and will, run to budget, supporting budget holders and reporting promptly on risks 

• Have ultimate oversight of the external audit and production of the statutory accounts, supported in delivery of this by the Finance & Office Manager

• Oversee production of management accounts and bespoke financial reports, including accurate forecasting, incisive analysis and accessible narrative commentary, ensuring decision-makers have the information they need. 

• Forecasting cash flow and managing the treasury position.

• Support the Partnerships & Impact team and Programme Managers with financial inputs to funding proposals and ensure restricted funds are used in compliance with grant conditions.

• Oversight of finance, governance and basic HR administration, supporting the Finance and Office Manager with high profile or complex queries, seeking specialist advice on financial or compliance matters as required

• Ensuring GDPR compliance across the organisation

• Leading an effective risk management process.

• Ensuring the organisation’s compliance with charity law, in accordance with the Charity Commission in England & Wales and all financial reporting requirements.

Skills & experience:

• You have interest and belief in our mission, to improve kids’ health through improving food and food education in schools

• You have full or partial qualification through an accredited accountancy body 

• You have experience in a senior finance role (e.g., Director, Head of) in any sector, and some experience within a finance function in the 3rd sector (in particular familiarity with Charities SORP and experience of administering restricted funds).

• You have experience of audit

• You enjoy a mix of leadership and rolling up sleeves to get hands on 

• You take a pragmatic and dynamic approach to robust financial management

• You can turn complex and dry data, into clear and engaging narrative 

• You have project managed the implementation of new systems (accountancy / CRM / data) and have a good awareness of new technologies

• You are organised, methodical, strong on detail, and able to map out deadlines and plan ahead 

• You are skilled in leading a team and building rapport with people, and strike a balance between being supportive and challenging 

Benefits

You would be joining a friendly, supportive team who works hard but believe in a healthy work/life balance. We were voted one of CODE Hospitality’s happiest places to work in 2024. We seek a diverse range of perspectives, skills, experience and knowledge. Joining a small, collaborative team means you’ll be able to contribute to and draw on various projects and strategic insights.

We offer 33 days of holiday per year including bank holidays, 3 additional office closure days over the Christmas period as well as wellbeing days over the summer school holidays.  We also have a Cycle to Work scheme, hybrid working, enhanced parental leave, and free access to the CODE app for discounted restaurants & hospitality venues. We are committed to developing our team and will support you with relevant training opportunities including £250 towards elective training and development of your choice.

We also offer Bupa Dental Insurance, Income Protection Insurance, as well as access to the Aviva Smart Health Platform which offers health benefits including free rapid access online GP appointments, free counselling and wellbeing support.

Application process

In line with our commitment to ensuring a fair and unbiased recruitment process, we invite candidates to answer a series of questions related to their day-to-day job. Please follow this link to answer the questions and submit your application along with your CV.

We recommend that you develop your answers offline and copy them in when you’re ready to ensure you don’t lose your work if interrupted.

Your answers will go through our sifting process: all answers will be anonymised, randomised and then reviewed by a panel of reviewers. A long list of candidates will then additionally have their CVs reviewed. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a 30 mins online interview. Successful candidates will be invited to attend a second, in-person interview at our office in Brixton, London.

Expected duration of this application process: 7 weeks

First interviews will be held on Thurs 14th Aug.

Second interviews will be held on Weds 20th Aug. 

International Events Manager

Position Objective:

To help manage and coordinate PETA and PETA entities’ Fundraising Events Department

Term of Employment:

Full-time

Location:

Hybrid in London (regular office attendance will be required)

Reports to:

Director, International Fundraising

Salary:

£34,000 - £38,000

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

• Assist the Assistant Director and Director, International Fundraising, with overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Fundraising Events Department

• Plan, organise, manage, and attend fundraising events held by PETA and PETA entities

• Exercise a lead role in overseeing aspects of PETA and PETA entity fundraising events, both in-person and virtual

• Ensure that event projects remain on schedule and deadlines are met

• Develop relations with event vendors and negotiate contracts and costs to ensure the best possible value

• Analyse data and evaluate events in order to implement strategy to improve event effectiveness

• Oversee the production of invitations, mailings, acknowledgement letters, awards, and other event-related materials

• Oversee the coordination of presentation material, including the creation of scripts and PowerPoint presentations

• Oversee the solicitation of donations and coordinate the production of gift bag materials

• Establish and maintain good communication and relationships with PETA donors and individuals at all levels of PETA and PETA entities

• Manage and track event RSVPs using PETA entities' donor databases and other tracking documents

• Manage event inventory and the shipping, receiving, and storage of event supplies

• Recruit and manage volunteers for events

• Collect and maintain event data, including costs, revenue, and confidential donor information

• Assist the department director and associate director in taking a lead role in the training of new hires in all event planning and departmental aspects

• Perform additional duties assigned by the supervisor

Qualifications and experience:

• Demonstrable event planning experience

• Proven experience with data entry and database maintenance systems

• Proficiency with a variety of Microsoft Office programs

• Proven exceptional oral and written communication and negotiation skills

• Proven ability to maintain strict confidentiality at all times

• Proven ability to establish priorities, organise tasks, work under pressure and meet multiple deadlines

• Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team

• Professional appearance

• Ability and willingness to travel

• Must have a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record

• Commitment to the objectives of the organisation

• Adherence to a vegan lifestyle is strongly preferred