Director jobs

Head of Programmes / Programmes Director, Level Water

What we're building

Level Water exists to solve a problem that shouldn’t exist: too many disabled children are still missing out on high-quality swimming lessons.

We’ve built a delivery model that works. Families trust us. Pools want to work with us. Funders back us. We’re well-funded (80% unrestricted) and responding to growing demand.

Now we’re entering the next stage: scaling what works without losing quality, care, or joy. This role sits right at the heart of that mission - leading not just how our programmes are delivered, but how we define, measure, and grow our impact.

We’re Level Water - a founder-led charity solving unequal access to swimming for children with disabilities. We’re not a typical charity. We own our swim events and run them like a business, creating a sustainable income stream that directly funds our programmes. That model gives us the freedom to move fast, test ideas, and build something that doesn’t exist anywhere else.

Because we’re self-sustaining, we can make clear, confident decisions about our programme and impact direction. If you want to help tackle unequal access to sport - and shape how a modern charity designs, delivers, and measures programmes at scale - this is your chance.

The opportunity

This isn’t a “keep programmes running” role.

This is a build, lead, and scale a national delivery model role.

As Head of Programmes, you’ll own how Level Water’s programmes are designed, delivered, improved, and expanded. You’ll take a proven model, design for growth  and help turn it into something category-defining - working at pace, making smart decisions, and setting the standard for what inclusive swimming can look like across the UK.

You’ll work closely with the CEO and senior team, lead our brilliant programme function (a Training and Excellence Manager and Programmes Officer), and bring energy and momentum to a part of the organisation that sits right at the heart of our impact.

If you’re excited by growth, complexity, and building something that really matters, you’ll thrive here.

If you’re looking for a role where you can play it safe, this probably isn’t it.

What you’ll actually own

Programme design, quality & scale

• You’ll own how Level Water’s programmes are designed, delivered, and grown - now and into the future.

• Set the strategic direction for our lesson delivery model, ensuring it scales without losing quality, care, or joy.

• Lead and develop the Programmes team, setting clear priorities, standards, and ways of working.

• Ensure programmes are safe, inclusive, effective, and consistently high-quality as delivery expands.

• Build the systems and processes that make great delivery easier at scale, not harder.

Impact, learning & continuous improvement

• You’ll define how we understand, measure, and improve our impact - and use learning to drive better delivery.

• Ensure we gather meaningful insight from families, swimmers, teachers, and partners.

• Turn data and feedback into clear learning that actively shapes programme decisions.

• Lead Level Water’s approach to impact reporting for funders, partners, Trustees, and the Board, alongside the Senior Leadership Team.

• Set clear success measures and use them to guide prioritisation, iteration, and growth.

Strategic partnerships, funding & sector influence

• You’ll build the relationships and credibility that enable sustainable programme growth and wider change.

• Build and manage strategic partnerships with national pool operators and delivery partners.

• Secure and manage national agreements that unlock scale and improve access.

• Work closely with Fundraising to shape strong, realistic programme content for grants and funding proposals.

• Own the programme side of grant-funded delivery, ensuring work is well planned, delivered to a high standard, and reported with clarity and confidence.

• Represent Level Water externally as a credible, influential voice in inclusive swimming, helping to shift culture and practice across the sector.

Who we’re looking for

We care far more about how you work than where you’ve worked or what sector you come from. You don’t need a background in swimming. You don’t need charity experience. What matters is how you think, how you lead, and the energy you bring.

People who thrive here have:

• Ambition for growth. You’re excited by the moment where something good needs to scale - and you want to help shape what comes next, not just maintain what already exists.

• Ownership and momentum. You take responsibility, spot opportunities, and move things forward. You don’t wait for perfect information or permission before acting.

• The ability to hold strategy and delivery together. You can zoom out to set direction and zoom in to make sure things actually work - and you know when each is needed.

• Confidence leading through change. You’ve helped programmes or services evolve through growth, complexity, or transformation, and you’re comfortable making decisions in imperfect conditions.

• Strong relational leadership. You build trust quickly, bring people with you, and create credibility with partners, teams, and senior stakeholders.

• A solutions-first mindset. When things get complicated (and they will), you stay calm, pragmatic, and focused on what will move things forward.

Bonus points if:

• You’ve worked in a scale-up, start-up, or fast-growing organisation.

• You’ve built or reshaped delivery models, partnerships, or systems as things grew.

• You’re motivated by impact and inclusion, and want your work to genuinely change lives.

If this sounds like you - and you’re excited by the challenge of building something ambitious with real-world impact - we’d love to hear from you.

Why Level Water?

Our values - Bold, Driven, Personal, and Joyful - shape how this role shows up in practice. You’ll be expected to bring ambition, move with purpose, care deeply about people, and help build programmes that feel genuinely joyful to be part of.

Bold.
This isn’t a “run what already exists” role. You’ll challenge assumptions, set direction, and help shape the future of inclusive swimming. We want your judgement, your ideas, and your confidence to make clear calls.

Driven.
We’re growing fast, and programmes sit at the centre of that growth. If you’re ambitious about scale, impact, and building something that lasts, there's a real opportunity here to lead what comes next.

Personal.
We’re founder-led and people-first. You’ll work closely with families, partners, and colleagues, balancing high standards with empathy, clarity, and care.

Joyful.
Swimming should be positive, empowering, and fun - especially for children who’ve too often been excluded. You’ll help ensure our programmes don’t just deliver outcomes, but create experiences that build confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of the water.

Practical details:

• Flexible working: remote, hybrid, or (even better) office-based in Tunbridge Wells, your choice.

• You'll attend weekend events throughout the summer.

• Some travel required to pools, partners, and events (including occasional weekends)

• Salary: Head of: £46k-57k (depending on experience)

How to apply

We want to hear from you in whatever way best shows us who you are and how you think.

Get creative. We really want to get a feel for your personality and style. A traditional CV and cover letter? Great. A video introduction? Awesome. Whatever format helps you shine and show us who you are. 

Here's what we'd love to know:

1. What’s the boldest change you’ve delivered that improved outcomes for the people your programme existed to serve - and what did you personally do to make it happen?

Before you apply:

If you've got questions about the role, the team, or whether this might be right for you, please reach out. I'm Lucy Powell, Operations Director at Level Water, and I'd genuinely love to chat. 

Deadline: 

We're reviewing applications on a rolling basis and will close this advert once we've found the right person. So if this excites you, don't wait, but do take the time to show us who you really are. 

We'd rather see your best work than a rushed application. If you need a bit of time to put that together, talk to us.

We're excited to meet you. Let's build something brilliant together.

Role Purpose 

This is a new role. Stand-by-me is seeking an experienced Director to effectively lead and manage the organisation. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the effective continued delivery of the charity’s aims, providing strong, strategic leadership and operational management, focussing on enhancing fundraising capacity and developing a robust organisation strategy. This role will also serve as the public representative of the organisation and will report directly to the Board of Trustees.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Development:

· Conduct a rapid assessment of the charity’s current strategic plan and identify key areas for improvement.

· Lead the development of a revised or updated strategic framework, focusing on sustainability, growth, and impact.

· Work collaboratively with the Board of Trustees and Clinical staff to define clear strategic priorities and measurable outcomes.

· Provide clear and concise report to the Board on progress against strategic objectives.

· Manage and coordinate research projects and feasibility studies including budgeting, resourcing, scheduling, tracking and ensuring quality assurance.

2. Income Generation and Financial Management:

· Conduct a rapid, comprehensive review of existing fundraising activities and identify opportunities for growth and diversification.

· Develop and implement a short and long-term fundraising strategy to maximise income generation.

· Monitor and report on grants and funding.

· Lead and motivate our volunteer community fundraising team providing guidance and support to achieve specified targets.

· Cultivate and strengthen relationships with major donors, trusts, foundations, patronage, and corporate partners.

· Explore and develop new fundraising streams, including regular giving, digital fundraising, innovative partnerships and legacies.

· Working with the team, develop compelling funding proposals and grant applications.

· Improve fundraising reporting and analysis to track performance and inform decision-making.

3. Operational Management:

· Provide effective line management to the team and volunteers to foster a positive and collaborative work environment.

· Effectively delegate tasks to team members including promoting self organisation.

· Work with the Finance Trustee to oversee financial management, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and best practices for budgeting.

· Manage risk and ensure the charity's compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

· Represent the charity to external stakeholders, building and maintaining positive relationships.

· Ensure effective communication and engagement with staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries.

· Work with Safeguarding Trustee and external Supervisors on any clinical or safeguarding issues as they arise.

· Conduct annual appraisals to monitor and evaluate staff performance.

4. Board Engagement/Governance:

· Act as the primary point of contact between the Board of Trustees.

· Provide regular updates to the Board on organisational performance including operational and strategic matters.

· Ensure the organisation’s compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements and internal policies to support the Board in its governance role by providing advice and information as needed.

· Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between the Trustee Board, staff and volunteers.

Role Purpose:

The Clinical Director will provide strategic clinical leadership to the Restraint Reduction Network, ensuring that all initiatives, standards, and practices align with evidence-based approaches, human rights principles, and the goal of reducing restrictive practices across education health and social care settings. This role will champion best practice, influence policy, and support the implementation of RRN Training Standards nationally and internationally.

This role will also include delivering training, audits, working on projects that reflect areas of expertise and supporting organisations to restrictive practices through six core strategies.

Role Summary

· To be the clinical lead for RRN including leading our work supporting providers to improve via the six core strategies.

· To provide clinical leadership for the RRN  Partners Programme through acting as lead RRN consultant and delivering programmes.

· Working with the Director of Organisational and Workforce development to ensure programmes are effective and contemporary and evolves as practice evolves and improves with feedback

· Providing collaborative leadership of RRN in leading a restraint reduction movement across the British Isles and leading our RRN members community.

· Work with members of RRN Senior leadership team and board of trustees to ensure RRN is both sustainable and impactful in line with charities purpose

· Support RRN manager and associates to develop a range of resources ensuring that all RRN resources are:

o evidence based (linking with academics and universities)

o co-produced (with people with lived experience of restraint)

o protects human rights (linking with human rights organisations)

· Support and contribute to the continuous improvement of the RRN training standards and RRN Practice Leadership Diploma

· Act as an ambassador and spokesperson for the RRN, ensuring positive relationships with key stakeholders including charities, civil servants, professionals, academics and people with lived experience

· Ensure RRN develops its reputation as leaders in restraint reduction nationally and internationally and ensure internal culture reflects trauma informed practice we promote

· Work collaboratively with CEO to ensure clear strategy and internal culture reflects trauma informed practice we promote

· Ensure all resources and work undertaken by RRN reflect best practice in co-production with people with lived experience of restraint

· Supporting RRN associates with lived experience with clear expectations of their role and putting in person centred processes to minimise the impact of trauma through the direct work they do  for RRN and the interaction with the organisation.

· Contribute to the development of a Community of Practice

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the clinical vision for restraint reduction across education, health and social care, ensuring alignment with RRN’s mission and values.
• Provide clinical leadership in ensuring all RRN activities are trauma informed and people with lived experience are provided with support then need to minimise risk of retraumatising.

Policy & Standards

• Ensure RRN Training Standards and resources are co-produced, remain current, evidence-based, and compliant with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to national and international policy development on restraint reduction and restrictive practices.

Quality & Improvement

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including audits, research, and evaluation of restraint reduction strategies.
• Monitor and report on clinical outcomes and impact measures related to restraint reduction.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build strong relationships with NHS Trusts, social care providers, special schools, regulators, and self-advocacy groups.
• Promote co-production with people with lived experience of restraint and their families.

Education & Workforce Development

• Support the development and delivery of RRN Diploma
• Provide clinical leadership for webinars, conferences, and professional development initiatives.

Research & Evidence

• Collaborate with academic partners to advance research on restraint reduction and disseminate findings.
• Ensure all RRN resources are evidenced based reflecting best practice from both research and people with lived experience.

Our partner, a respected and established international charity supporting programmes across Africa; seeks a qualified and experienced senior finance professional to provide strategic financial leadership, maintain robust systems, controls, and donor compliance across the organisation. The Director of Finance is responsible for organisational financial strategy, budgeting, reporting, external audits, risk management, and supporting programme delivery through high-quality financial oversight.This hands-on role requires the Director of Finance to execute daily tasks as well as overseeing, and mentoring, others within the team to undertake what is required.

Key responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Financial Planning 

• Lead the organisation’s financial strategy ensuring sustainability and alignment with mission and organisational priorities. 

• Advise the CEO and Board on financial performance, risk, and scenario planning. 

• Develop long-term financial models and cashflow forecasts. 

• Provide financial insight to strategic decisions, business cases, growth opportunities, and operational planning. 

Financial Management & Control 

• Oversee and execute specific tasks relating to financial operations including accounting, treasury, cash management, payroll, and banking. 

• Ensure monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closes are accurate and timely. 

• Maintain and strengthen internal financial controls across central team and country/project operations. 

• Implement efficient systems and processes to support a lean but compliant financial environment. 

Budgeting & Organisational Performance 

• Lead the annual budgeting process 

• Monitor budget performance, variances, and financial KPIs, providing clear analysis for senior leadership. 

Donor Finance & Grant Compliance 

• Oversee donor grant finance, ensuring compliance with institutional donor restrictions and requirements. 

Audit & Assurance 

• Lead the annual organisational audit: prepare schedules, financial statements, and required disclosures. 

• Ensure compliance with charity accounting standards (SORP) 

• Oversee financial donor audits, ensuring timely, accurate responses and evidence. 

Risk Management 

• Contribute to the organisational risk register by recording and presenting on financial risks to the Board and Finance and Audit Committee. 

• Implement financial due diligence for donors, suppliers, and country operations as required to meet organisation and donor policies. 

Oversight of International Operations 

• Ensure strong financial management of new country programmes creating and reviewing and renewing policies as required. 

• Support the development or review of financial systems, capacity, and reporting in relation to new country expansion work. 

• Oversee financial arrangements for countries where the INGO has no legal entity, including fiscal hosts, secondee payments, and contract structures. 

Leadership, Management & Culture 

• Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team to achieve operational excellence. 

Person Specification 

• Worked as a Finance Director or as a Head of Finance (with autonomy of decision making and board reporting duties) 

• Strong understanding of charity accounting standards and regulatory requirements. 

• Senior-level finance experience in an INGO, charity, or multi-country organisation (preferably with operations in the Global South) 

• Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA, CPA or equivalent). 

• Demonstrable experience with institutional donor compliance. 

• Experience leading annual audits and preparing financial statements. 

• Strong leadership and team management skills, including developing staff. 

• Strong budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis skills. 

• Experience managing multi-currency environments and international financial operations. 

• Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance staff, senior leaders, and Boards. 

THE VACANCY

Location: London – Hybrid (3 days p/w in office)
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

Director of People & Culture

Are you an accomplished HR leader with extensive international experience? The ITF is looking for a Director of People & Culture to head the department from our London headquarters, overseeing people operations and strategic workforce planning across 12 regional offices globally.

About the Role

As Director of People & Culture, you will lead the full breadth of the People & Culture portfolio, including workforce planning, global employee relations and compliance, payroll, pensions, benefits, recruitment, learning and development, policy development, and diversity, equity & inclusion.

You will set the strategic direction for the P&C team, oversee governance and compliance and financial planning across multiple jurisdictions, and partner closely with the Senior Leadership Team to ensure the department supports organisational goals.

This role requires a balance of strategic insight, operational oversight, and the ability to lead effectively in a complex, unionised, international environment. You will also act as a trusted adviser on employment law, organisational change, and policy development across our global offices.

Key responsibilities include:

Global Workforce Planning:

Lead workforce modelling, resourcing strategies, and financial planning for all established roles, ensuring accurate reporting and alignment with organisational priorities.

HR Operations & Compliance:

Oversee payroll, pensions, benefits, and employee-related financial processes. Ensure compliance with employment legislation across the UK and all regional hubs, maintaining robust HR governance and data integrity.

Employee Relations:

Provide senior oversight on complex global employee relations issues, including disciplinary, grievance, and conflict resolution matters. Liaise with unions, staff committees, and external legal advisers.

Policy Leadership:

Lead policy development in line with evolving legislation and organisational needs, ensuring a strong focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion. Support negotiations with union representatives.

Recruitment & Talent:

Develop global recruitment strategy, champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices, and support managers in delivering high-quality onboarding and talent development.

Change Management:

Lead on organisational change initiatives, including restructures and major transformation projects.

Culture, DEI & Learning:

Champion a diverse and inclusive culture, oversee the learning and development strategy, and ensure an effective performance and development review cycle.

Leadership of the P&C Team:

Provide strategic direction, coaching, and leadership to the P&C team, fostering collaboration, professional growth, and high-quality service delivery.

About You

You’re an accomplished HR leader with a strong record of delivering impactful people strategies in complex, international environments. You combine deep technical knowledge with the strategic capability to influence, shape, and lead across a global organisation.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

Senior HR leadership experience:
A strong track record in leading P&C functions and delivering strategic HR initiatives internationally.

Expert knowledge of employment legislation:
In-depth understanding of UK employment law and the legal frameworks of ITF’s regional hubs, with the ability to anticipate future legislative changes.

Strong employee relations and policy expertise:
Experience supporting unionised environments and developing policies that advance fairness, compliance, and inclusion.

Financial and strategic planning capability:
Experience in workforce costings, HR financial planning, and compensation and benefits strategy on a global scale.

Change leadership skills:
Proven ability to lead organisational change and support leaders and teams through transformation.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills:
Ability to engage confidently with stakeholders at all levels and act with discretion, professionalism, and integrity.

Professional qualifications:
Degree-level education and CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent experience); chartered status desirable.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a global People & Culture function within a values-driven international organisation. You will shape our people strategy, strengthen our culture, and ensure we continue to be a supportive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace for staff around the world.

ur culture, and ensure we continue to be a supportive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace for staff around the world.

About Us

VAST is a registered charity dedicated to supporting and empowering the Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector in Stoke-on-Trent. We aim to foster strong local networks, strengthen community engagement, and build the capacity of local community groups.

The Role

As Finance & Business Operations Director, you will lead VAST’s financial and operational strategy, ensuring robust financial management, effective HR and IT systems, and compliance with Health & Safety. You will oversee the efficient running and management of The Dudson Centre (a Grade II listed building), act as Company Secretary, and serve as the organisation’s Money Laundering Reporting Officer.

This is a senior leadership role, contributing to strategic planning and organisational development while supporting VAST’s day-to-day delivery. It’s an exciting opportunity for someone who combines financial expertise with operational leadership and a commitment to community impact.

What We’re Looking For

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

Why join us

At VAST, we offer more than just a job. You’ll be part of a team committed to helping communities thrive. We believe in equal opportunities and strive to create an inclusive work environment where everyone can succeed.

You will also have access to a range of wellbeing perks, including:

• Mortgage and pension advice.
• Virtual GP appointments and second medical opinions.
• Comprehensive mental health support
• Wellbeing programmes to support a healthy lifestyle.

To apply

Applications are accepted by CV and covering lettter only. 

Closing date for applications is Midnight on Friday 30th January 2026.

Interviews will be held during February 2026

VAST is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all individuals, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, age, or disability.

Director of Finance and IT
London (Camden) | Hybrid working
Salary £90,000
Full time (37.5 hours) or 4 days per week considered

Thomson Foundation is an independent, globally respected organisation with over 60 years’ experience supporting free, ethical and trusted journalism around the world. At a time when reliable information has never mattered more, Thomson’s work is both impactful and deeply values-driven.

They are now seeking a Director of Finance and IT to join the senior leadership team at an exciting point in the organisation’s evolution.

This is a rare opportunity for a senior finance leader who enjoys combining strategic leadership while also being able to provide hands on support. You will work closely with the CEO, Board and senior colleagues to shape future strategy, while also getting into the detail to understand how things work today and where they can be improved tomorrow.

You will thrive in this role if you enjoy making your mark: strengthening systems, improving automation, streamlining processes and building robust, proportionate controls that suit a small, international organisation. This is not a role where you sit at arm’s length from the detail – you will be curious, practical and comfortable rolling up your sleeves, whether that’s reviewing processes, posting journals, improving reporting or driving smarter use of technology.

Alongside financial leadership, you will oversee IT, risk, compliance and governance across the Thomson Group, working with outsourced providers and internal colleagues to ensure systems are secure, efficient and fit for purpose. You will play a key role in delivering the Finance and Technology Transformation Plan, helping the organisation operate more effectively and sustainably as it continues to grow and adapt.

Thomson has a small, welcoming team and a collaborative, non-hierarchical culture. You will be joining an organisation where people are trusted, ideas are welcomed and impact really matters. The role is based in Camden, with hybrid working two days per week in the office.

This role will suit someone who is:
• equally comfortable thinking strategically and working hands on
• motivated by improving systems, automation and ways of working
• curious, detail-oriented and happy to implement change
• values-led and excited by working in a mission-driven, international charity

If you are looking for a senior leadership role where you can genuinely influence, improve and help shape the future of a highly respected organisation, this is an outstanding opportunity.

How to Apply

For more information, please contact Rosemary Pini at Allen Lane who is supporting on this role and happy to answer any questions.

Please apply by sending CV and supporting statement before 1st February

Role: Director of Fundraising and Communications

Location:Home-based, with regular attendance (2-3 times per month) of meetings in London.

Salary:£70,000 (pro-rata for part-time)

Type: Permanent, full time (37.5 hours per week) or flexible to at least 0.8 FTE

Responsible to:CEO

Responsible for:Head of Communications, Marketing & Digital (and team); Fundraising Managers x 2; Fundraising Assistant

Benefits:   Flexible working arrangements, 28 days of annual leave and bank holidays (FTE pro-rata for part-time) + 1 day for your birthday, pension scheme and Employee Assistance Programme.

About the role

Every five minutes, someone, somewhere in the world is told that they have MS. There are currently 2.9 million people in the world living with MS. When you’re diagnosed with MS, in just seconds, the future that you saw for yourself and your loved ones has been shattered. A diagnosis often comes at a time when you’re in the prime of your life, when you should be planning your future, not facing a lifetime of uncertainty. Knowing you have MS can feel incredibly isolating and lonely.

Overcoming MS is here to provide hope: through lifestyle changes, backed by scientific research, a full and healthy life with MS is possible. Could you be the person that helps us get this message of hope through to thousands of people diagnosed each year, their families and friends, and to potential funders?

This role is an essential leadership role in Overcoming MS, working as a key member of a small Senior Leadership Team, in partnership with the Chief Executive and Director of Services. The Director of Fundraising & Communications is responsible for driving income generation, strengthening the charity’s profile, and embedding marketing and digital excellence across all areas of work.

Job summary:

You will set both strategic direction and deliver hands-on activity, overseeing all fundraising streams, communications, digital platforms, and supporter engagement. You will develop integrated strategies that maximise limited resources, grow sustainable income, amplify our impact and ensure the charity communicates with clarity, consistency, and purpose.

You will lead a small team of fundraisers, marketeers and communicators to deliver to our current organisational plans, whilst developing longer term plans to extend our reach and our income base. You will work proactively and independently to build relationships, develop innovative campaigns and provide the support that enables our service delivery to function.

You will be expected to provide a high standard and quality of impact across a range of activities and projects, being fully aware of and upholding the charity’s values, and taking responsibility for modelling these to others across the organisation and to the wider community.

Key responsibilities:

1. Strategic & organisational leadership

• Lead the development and delivery of an integrated fundraising, communications, and digital strategy aligned with the charity’s mission and growth ambitions.
• Provide senior leadership input into organisational planning, impact reporting, and strategic development.
• Manage departmental budgets, forecasting, and performance monitoring.
• Foster a collaborative, values-driven culture and support wider organisational priorities.

2. Fundraising leadership

· Drive sustainable income growth across key fundraising streams:

o Individual giving and regular giving

o Major donors

o Trusts and Foundations

o Corporate partnerships and sponsorships

• • Community and challenge events
• Personally manage selected high-value supporters and partnerships.
• Develop compelling cases for support, pitches, and fundraising campaigns.
• Ensure excellent donor journeys and stewardship, supported by effective digital and CRM systems.
• Maintain compliance with fundraising best practice and regulations.

3. Communications, brand & digital

· Transform our approach to raising awareness – both of the connection between healthy lifestyle and MS, as well as Overcoming MS itself – ensuring we reach people with MS and their families at the earliest point of a diagnosis.

• Lead Overcoming MS’s communication strategy to significantly grow visibility, engagement and trust, with everyone affected by MS, the Overcoming MS community, donors and fundraisers, and other key stakeholders.

• Ensure digital and communication tools, channels, systems and platforms underpin and are able to maximise opportunities for all fundraising, communications, and operational activity.
• Use communication and marketing techniques to amplify the impact of our services and increase our reach, ensuring maximum take up.
• Oversee the charity’s website, ensuring strong user experience, accessibility, SEO performance, and conversion optimisation.

• Oversee production of high-quality, tailored content for digital, print, and social channels.

• Oversee digital supporter acquisition and retention: paid ads, email marketing, marketing automation, and analytics.

5. Campaigns & public engagement

• Lead fundraising, awareness and media campaigns across digital and traditional channels.
• Use data, insights, and analytics to optimise campaign performance and supporter engagement.

6. Other

• Provide regular performance reports to the CEO and Board, including financial updates, campaign metrics, and risk management.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of fundraising regulation, data protection, accessible communications and digital governance, ensuring all our activities are compliant.
• Ensure that all activities uphold the charity’s values, safeguarding practices, and ethical commitments.
• Represent the charity externally at events, conferences, and partner meetings.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential experience

• Senior leadership experience within a charity or non-profit organisation, ideally in a small team or resource-limited environment.
• Proven track record of generating income across multiple fundraising streams.
• Experience leading digital, communications, and/or marketing functions.
• Demonstrable experience of measurable impact within a small organisation, through increasing income generation or significant reach.
• Demonstrable experience of content creation, audience engagement and strong message creation.
• Experience of delivering integrated campaigns, including overseeing media and digital engagement, with demonstrable outcomes.
• Experience managing donor relationships, funder reporting, and high-quality proposals.
• Budget management and strategic planning experience.
• Significant experience of managing external providers, agencies, suppliers and partners, managing relationships to achieve better terms, service or outcomes, overcoming difficulties or retendering where required.

Essential skills & competencies

• Strong digital skills: CRM systems, website CMS, email marketing tools, social media management, analytics, and digital fundraising techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to craft compelling stories and proposals.
• Relationship-building ability with donors, partners, media, supporters, and stakeholders.
• Creative and data-driven approach to engagement, marketing, and income generation.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of fundraising, communications, GDPR, safeguarding, accessibility and other standards.
• Ability to balance strategic leadership with hands-on delivery.
• Strong organisational, planning, and project-management skills.

Personal attributes

• Passion for the work that Overcoming MS does and the communities we serve.
• Highly adaptable, resilient, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, small-team environment.
• Understanding of an organisation with a dispersed, remote team across a wide geography.
• Collaborative, supportive, and able to inspire confidence internally and externally.
• Proactive, solutions-focused, and committed to continuous improvement.
• Integrity, discretion, and a commitment to ethical fundraising and responsible communications.
• Excellent standard of written and spoken English and ability to communicate effectively with a range of people from diverse backgrounds.
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Fully committed to Overcoming MS’s values

Desirable

• Experience with a charity from the health sector or an understanding of multiple sclerosis or other neurological conditions.

Director of Retail

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

About the Role

We are seeking an outstanding Director of Retail to lead one of Sense’s most significant income-generating operations. This is a critical executive leadership role, responsible for the strategic direction, performance, and future resilience of 108 charity shops, employing over 300 staff and generating £15m annual turnover.

Reporting directly to the Chief Finance & Commercial Officer, you will lead a national retail team and play a pivotal role in ensuring Sense’s long-term financial sustainability. You will drive innovation, commercial excellence, and operational effectiveness - building a modern, resilient retail model that supports Sense’s mission and responds to a fast-changing retail landscape.

This is a hybrid role, working between home and our site in Crayford. There will also be regular travel to our charity shops across the UK.

Key Objectives

• Develop and deliver a national retail strategy that drives sustainable income growth across physical shops and e-commerce.
• Lead digital and operational innovation to improve efficiency, enhance customer experience, and maximise profitability.
• Build strong strategic partnerships to extend reach, visibility, and income.
• Champion sector-leading retail practice, ensuring Sense remains competitive, agile, and future-focused.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide inspirational leadership to a high-performing national retail team of staff and volunteers, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Drive retail performance using data-led insights to identify opportunities, manage risk, and deliver results.
• Strengthen and diversify income streams, including expanding and optimising e-commerce.
• Lead financial planning and performance management, ensuring delivery of income targets and strong return on investment.
• Optimise the retail property portfolio to ensure value for money, profitability, and estate sustainability.
• Lead scenario planning and build operational resilience to respond effectively to market changes.
• Ensure robust governance, compliance, and risk management across all retail operations.
• Strengthen community engagement and deliver a consistent, high-quality customer experience across all retail locations.
• Represent Sense Retail externally, building influence with sector bodies, partners, and stakeholders.
• Embed sustainability and social responsibility into retail practices, supporting Sense’s commitment to addressing the climate crisis.

About You

You will be a strategic, values-driven retail leader with the credibility and experience to operate at executive level.

You will bring:

• Proven success in a senior retail leadership role within a large multi-site charity, public sector body, or comparable organisation.
• A strong track record of driving income growth, innovation, and transformation.
• Experience leading large, geographically dispersed teams through change.
• Deep knowledge of charity retail governance, regulation, and best practice.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience managing significant budgets and using performance analytics to inform decisions.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, including experience presenting to executive teams and boards.
• A clear commitment to equity, inclusion, and the rights of disabled people.
• Resilience, adaptability, and the ability to lead calmly and confidently in a complex environment.

To apply

Please use the link below to complete your application. Managers will use your application to shortlist candidates for interview; in relation to the Personal Specification. Therefore, it is very important you complete this section thoroughly.  We would recommend that you read the job description and person specification before applying.

Please note to avoid disappointment, we advise you to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close posts at any time.

No agency submissions please: any submissions without prior authorisation from the Sense Recruitment Team will be treated as our own and as such no fee will be payable.

Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of employment, where appropriate, are subject to a DBS check; level dependent on the nature of the role.

For this role we particularly welcome applications from candidates from underrepresented ethnic minority backgrounds and candidates with disabilities. Sense is committed to equality of opportunity, and to promoting and celebrating the diversity of staff, volunteers and the people we work with. Everyone's contribution is valued and we ensure they're given the opportunity to realise their potential. We welcome applications from talented people from all sections of the community who share our values and belief that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. 

This is a unique chance to combine clinical expertise, leadership, and compassion in a role that can make a genuine impact on people’s lives.

Together, we improve the lives of local people affected by cancer.  We provide wraparound holistic support, information, education and wellbeing services to people affected by cancer across Norfolk and beyond.  As demand for our services continues to grow, we are seeking an exceptional Director of Charitable Operations to join our Executive Leadership Team. In this pivotal role, you’ll help shape the future of our work and ensure we continue improving the lives of local people affected by cancer.

About the Role

As a key member of Big C’s Executive leadership team, you will bring a specialist knowledge of cancer and act as an ambassador for the charity in this area of expertise.

You will serve as the clinical lead for the charity with leadership and management responsibilities of our Cancer Support Centres and Hubs, our Health Academy programmes, and of the teams that deliver them.  This includes collaborating with internal colleagues and external partners to ensure the delivery of high-quality, sustainable services for anyone affected by cancer.  An example we are proud of is the practical help with social and financial concerns through our Citizens Advice welfare advisors.

You will also support the Chief Executive with the strategic development and direction of Big C’s cancer support services and health academy programmes. This role requires clinical expertise and demonstrable experience to successfully lead the delivery of Big C’s charitable operations to meet rising demand.

On occasion, like other members of the Executive team, you will be required to deputise for the Chief Executive in their absence.

Location: You will be based in Big C’s office in Centrum, a bright and modern building on Norwich Research Park. Informally, some home working is possible, but you will need to work from the office and other Big C sites regularly.

Hours: 35 hours per week

Salary: £60,000 to £65,000 per annum (subject to skills and experience)

Contract: Permanent

About You

You will be an experienced clinical leader with a strong track record of operating at a senior level, ideally within healthcare or the charity sector. Above all, you will share Big C’s commitment to ensuring that people affected by cancer receive outstanding care, support and education when they need it most.

You will bring:

• Recognised clinical expertise and professional registration, with demonstrable experience in cancer care or related services.
• Strategic leadership experience, with the ability to translate vision into practical, high-quality service delivery.
• Strong people leadership skills, with a compassionate, inclusive and values-driven approach.
• Experience of governance, safeguarding and working effectively with Boards or Trustees.
• Financial and commercial awareness, including budget management and income generation.
• Credibility and confidence to represent Big C with partners, funders and stakeholders.

About Big C

Big C is one of East Anglia’s largest cancer charities, having raised £50 million in 45 years. Each year, our supporters help us raise around £3 million to support people affected by cancer in our community.

We provide holistic care through Cancer Support Centres and Hubs, as well as online and telephone support via our Virtual Support Centre. Income comes from donations, local businesses, grants, legacies, and 12 charity shops across the region.

Why Big C?

Committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, Big C was recently awarded Gold Accreditation for the third time running in the Best Employers Eastern Region 2025 and offers a supportive environment that values wellbeing and work/life balance.

Our benefits include:

• 33 days holiday (FTE, including bank holidays)
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Company sick pay and life assurance
• Health Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Some hybrid working with some flexibility in hours
• Opportunities for professional development

Apply Now

Closing date for applications: Monday 26 January 2026

Please take a look at the vacancy pack for further information and the job description. 

When applying, please complete the online application fully.  Information to support your application can be in your attached covering letter or as indicated in the application. 

If you prefer to apply in a different way or require information in an accessible format, please contact Caroline Roberts, People Manager.

Big C are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults, young adults and children and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. 

This role requires an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and a barred list check. Additionally, your application plays an essential part in our choosing the right person for this position. 

About the opportunity 

This is an exhilarating time for Advancement as we have recently embarked on our second comprehensive campaign. Your leadership will be vital in cultivating complex relationships with high-net-worth individuals, industry collaborators, and innovative organisations, building a vibrant ecosystem of supporters committed to advancing science, technology, engineering, maths and business.

The Director of Development, STEM and Business is a senior role in the team, responsible for growth of the University’s fundraising program within the University’s Faculty of Science, Faculty of Engineering and the University of Sydney Business School.

Building on several established relationships and a strong trajectory of major philanthropic gifts, this position will establish, manage and nurture relationships with existing and potential donors for the STEM and Business portfolios.

Working closely with academic leadership, this position is also charged with growing a culture of philanthropy across the Faculty and schools to increase awareness of and engagement with the fundraising process.

You will bring a wealth of experience in major gift fundraising, a proven track record of closing gifts, and a strategic mind adept at navigating complex stakeholder environments. You will be a creative, inspiring leader, motivating and developing a team of development professionals dedicated to achieving bold goals.

The following overview of Activities and Accountabilities are designed to deliver outcomes aligned with the University’s strategic goals:

• Demonstrated success in closing multi-million dollar gifts and meeting stretch financial targets.

• Ability to think strategically and provide robust, tactical advice on fundraising strategy.

• Current knowledge of best practices in development.

• Expert influencing skills and the demonstrated ability to coordinate and optimise outcomes from competing objectives across the institution through collaboration, negotiation and priority setting to mitigate internal competition.

• Proven leadership experience with the ability to mentor, inspire and motivate a group of ambitious and goal-oriented professionals.

• Proven ability to present complex information in a clear and compelling manner in writing and in person.

• Demonstrated success in establishing, cultivating and maintaining high-level, strong relationships with influential donors.

• Experience building collaborative working relationships with colleagues and senior leadership to achieve the organisation’s goals.

• Relevant tertiary qualifications would be beneficial.

About us

The Advancement Portfolio team at the University of Sydney is the most successful fundraising program in Australian higher education. Having completed the nation’s first $1BN fundraising campaign and recently launched on the next, the team is not only the finest performing, its success facilitates the largest real-world impact that philanthropic giving makes possible.

Since its inception 175 years ago, the University of Sydney has led to improve the world around us. We believe in education for all and that effective leadership makes lives better. These same values are reflected in our approach to philanthropy and underpin our long-term strategy for excellence and growth. We’re Australia's first university and have an outstanding global reputation for academic and research excellence.

Why us

When you join the University of Sydney, you become an integral part of a community in which you are fully supported to achieve your career ambitions. You’ll be in a workplace where development is encouraged, and intellectual pursuits foster a sense of purpose and confidence including:

• 35-hour work week

• flexible working model

• up to 36 weeks paid parental leave.

• tax-efficient salary packaging options

• ongoing training and development in-house and external

• subsidised parking on campus

• access to Relocation Assistance and sponsorship if needed

Note for candidates from overseas

• The University will cover costs and travel for the final shortlisted candidate interviews.

• We will also assist with a temporary visa for this position, assist with immigration and family relocation costs

Closing date: 11:59pm Tuesday 27th January 2026

EEO statement

At the University of Sydney, our shared values include diversity and inclusion and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community which reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this commitment through our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTIQ. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
 

If you are passionate about the power of philanthropy to impact the future of research and education, and if you seek a rewarding opportunity to inspire change across multiple sectors, we would be delighted to hear from you. Join us in shaping a legacy that will benefit generations to come, in a vibrant university renowned for its innovation, diversity, and opportunities.

Pre-employment checks
Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.

How to apply
Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page.

For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply.

For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact, Sarah Scott, Recruitment Operations.

© The University of Sydney

The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Our client is a London based charity dedicated to supporting the health and wellbeing across the UK.

Each year, our client helps thousands of people facing challenges that include financial, health, caring, domestic abuse and more through their 40 strong passionate staff team by investing £5.4m. Through advice, specialist referrals and financial assistance, they offer practical, personalised support to those who need it most.

Interim Director of Client Services (circa 6 contract) 

Advice & Support Charity  

Based London (City) Hybrid working, 3 days per week in office.  

Salary: Up to £80,000 FTE

As the organisation enters its new strategy to deepen its impact, build long-term resilience, and reach those most in need they are looking for an Interim Director of Client Services to lead the team, ahead of a permanent post holder being recruited.

We are seeking people with:

• Experience of running high quality advise and welfare services, including helplines
• Solid experience of managing a similar sized team (23), including managerial positions
• Excellent people management skills – supportive and empowering leadership style 
• Experience of driving a culture of continuous improvement and responsive service design

Closing date: Sunday 18th January 2026

CV’s will be assessed on a rolling basis.

You will need availability to start in early February 2026. 

To be considered, please upload your CV via the link below.

If you have any specific queries around the role, please contact us at Prospectus.

My client is a large, well established brand in the charity sector. Operating nationally, it works closely with a network of local partners, delivering services, advice, advocacy, and support aimed at enabling individuals to live well.

Never one to stand still, the organisation is constantly evolving to meet the needs of its users and is currently in the early stages of a strategic review.  As part of this change programme, they are now looking to recruit an interim Finance Director, to deliver on current projects as well as pave the wave for future transformation.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead the development and delivery of a robust and forward-looking finance strategy, ensuring long-term organisational sustainability, strong financial stewardship, and full regulatory compliance.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, long-term financial planning, and performance analysis, supported by the FP & A team.
• Direct all aspects of financial control, ensuring the delivery of high-quality external audits, transparent statutory reporting, and strong internal controls.
• Lead the continued optimisation of the organisation’s finance systems, including the current implementation of Business Central.
• Champion continuous improvement and simplification of financial processes, controls, and ways of working.
• Lead, and retain a high-performing, customer-focused Finance team.

Essential Experience & Qualifications

• Professional accounting qualification (ACA/ACCA/CIMA/CIPFA).
• Demonstrable experience of previously working in a large Not-for-Profit organisation at a similar senor level.
• Broad technical expertise across management accounting, financial accounting, charity accounting, and audit.
• Senior-level change and project management experience.
• Demonstrated ability to produce concise, accessible Board-level reporting.

My client offers a very flexible hybrid working policy.

Hoxton Health helps hundreds of local people to manage long term conditions and stay mobile and independent as they age.  We are seeking a new director for our calm and friendly complementary therapy clinic based in St Leonards community hospital.

About Us
Hoxton Health is a well-valued local charity, established over 30 years ago, providing low-cost complementary therapy treatments for older people and those with long term conditions. We fundraise and build partnerships to subsidise treatments, offering lower costs to older patients. Based in St Leonard’s Hospital in Hackney, our friendly team consists of independent practitioners delivering therapies through the week, two other part-time office staff, and a team of volunteers who run the reception.

What will you be doing?
The Centre Director is responsible for the management of all aspects of the organisation's operations and development – internally and externally.
This includes:

• Governance and strategy, including support for Trustee Board
• Oversee smooth running of the clinic
• Finance and fundraising
• Staff management
• Monitoring and evaluation of grant funding
• Development of new projects
• Partnership engagement with other agencies

The clinic is small but busy, with varied days and experiences. We foster a friendly and supportive environment for both our patients and team members. Leadership, guidance and inspiration for this must start with the Centre Director’s work and influence.

Why join us?

• Opportunity to shape the future of a well loved, longstanding service for older people and those with complex needs
• Satisfaction of leading a service with real and valued impact on the health of local people
• Opportunity to join and lead a friendly and welcoming team
• Employer Pension contribution
• Complementary therapy treatments at staff rate