Director of communications jobs

Operations Director:

A new post at the Longford Trust, created at an exciting time of growth and development for the charity.

- A 3 day-a-week role;

- Reporting to the Director and working as part of the Senior Management Team of the trust, within an overall cohort of eight, all part-time posts;

- Paid pro-rata of £50-55,000 depending on experience via PAYE with pensions contributions;

- The trust has no physical office, so team members work remotely, with flexible hours, but all team members work Tuesdays. There are regular face-to-face team meetings, as well as one-to-ones, so easy access to London an advantage.

Responsibilities

- Leadership role in following areas: strategy, developing and implementing the 10-Year-Plan; HR; our Frank Awards programme; Communications and Marketing, systems, digital and AI.

- Working with the Director on fund-raising and finance, growing and nurturing our core partnerships;

- Working with other SMT members when needed in delivering their specific programme areas.

Person specification

Essential qualities you need to be able to demonstrate:

- commitment to prison reform, with an understanding of the prison system and the barriers it creates for those leaving prison (lived experience of the prison or the criminal justice system is valued);

- senior management background either in a charitable organisation or in a relevant area;

- an entrepreneurial approach;

- proven leadership skills and ability to represent the trust in public settings;

- track record in expressing yourself clearly and persuasively in writing;

- strong interpersonal skills in regard of team-working, team-building and upholding the values of the trust;

- up-to-date financial and digital literacy.

Values

Taking our cue from Frank Longford, after whom the trust is named, our values shape every aspect of our work, including all relationships between team members, trustees, scholarship award-holders, our volunteer trained mentors and our employability partners. These values include:

- A firm belief in the power of education to change lives;

- A passion for second chances for those with lived experience of prison;

- A thorough-going can-do, practical approach that is driven by a desire to level the playing field for those who have been to prison and are committed to building new lives;

- A commitment to integration of all regardless of background and circumstances. We assume the best, start from the positive, are curious, are always ready to learn, and reject fixed mindsets.

Who we are and what we do

The Longford Trust was set up in 2002. Each November, it stages an annual Longford Lecture and awards an annual Longford Prize. Our Longford Scholarship programme supports young serving and ex-prisoners to continue their rehabilitation by going to university. It is the only programme of its type across the UK, supporting more than 600 individuals so far, with over 100 current award-holders, as well as many alumni who continue to be part of the trust. Between 80 and 85% of those we support go on to graduate, move into employment and build new lives. Our scholarship programme accounts for more than three quarters of our expenditure

Apply to with an up-to-date CV and accompanying letter explaining how you fit our job specification, why you want to work with the Longford Trust, and what you will bring to it. Closing date noon on Friday May 1. Interviews will be in person in the second week of May.

We are looking for a strategically minded and highly committed individual to lead our System Navigation Services.  This person will be responsible for developing exceptional services to help people seeking sanctuary navigate the systems they are forced to exist in and delivering these in solidarity with those seeking sanctuary.These System Navigation Services - The Sanctuary, The Drop-In, The Sheffield Project for Refugee Integration and Growth (SPRING), and our Volunteering Team - are exciting, joyful, and powerful city-wide services that are developed alongside the community of people seeking sanctuary.  They are both impressive in their current form and have so much potential for the right candidate to build and develop them further. 

Alongside this work, we also expect a successful candidate will also have a deep understanding of systemic change, understand our unique role in that work, and understand how their role contributes to systemic change. 

Ultimately, this is a position of leadership within a highly trusted and impactful organisation at the forefront of the movement for the rights of people seeking sanctuary.  We are truly excited about bringing on someone to join us on the journey we are all on together – towards a city that is safe and welcoming for those seeking sanctuary.  In a time when that vision seems to be receding from us, we believe this work is more important than ever.

About GDI Hub

Our mission is to accelerate ideas into impact for a more just world - for disabled people, and all people. Our vision is for disability inclusion and social justice. We work towards a world without barriers to participation, where everyone has the opportunity to live a joyful life.

We are a world leading delivery and practice centre, an Academic Research Centre at UCL (University College London) and the first WHO Global Collaborating Centre on Assistive Technology (AT). We work in 40+ countries, with a reach of more than 64 million people since 2016, GDI Hub develops homegrown technologies alongside new knowledge and research.

In collaboration with global partners, we deliver accelerators and market shaping initiatives - building ecosystems with a focus on low-and middle-income countries. An Academic Research Centre and a Community Interest Company, our diverse portfolio and unique set up enable rapid translation of research into practice.

Launched in 2016 as a legacy of the London 2012 Paralympic Games, our office and research lab continue to be based on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, at UCL’s East London campus. GDI Hub is home to the UK Aid funded AT2030 programme which tests ‘what works’ to improve access to life- changing Assistive Technology (AT) for all.

We accelerate new solutions through innovative partnerships and multi-disciplinary thinking.

Our strategic goals include:

• Include: Create deep community leadership & engagement
• Inquire: Generate new evidence & insights.
• Incubate: Develop & test tech inspired solutions.
• Invest: Bring effective solutions to market.
• Integrate: Strengthen systems to make inclusion a reality.
• Impart: Educate & learn from change makers

Role Purpose

GDI Hub CIC is seeking an experienced PA/ Team Assistant to provide high-level support to its CEO and Academic Director as well as support the wider team.

The successful candidate will enable the CEO and Academic Director to be more effective by providing proactive administrative, communication, and operational support. The role will act as a key coordination point across the organisation, ensuring priorities are managed, diaries are coordinated, and that the CEO and Academic Director’s time is used strategically.

In addition, the candidate will also support the wider GDI Hub CIC team, particularly Operations, Comms and Project Delivery.

Across all elements of the role, the successful candidate will need to work with multiple colleagues and balance competing priorities. Responsibilities will include diary and time management, handling written communication, arranging national and international travel and logistics, event coordination, administrative support, and meeting and document preparation.  This role will work closely with members of the GDI Hub team, with some interactions with external partners, collaborators and stakeholders.

We are looking for a candidate with strong organisation, administrative and communication skills. The ability to work in a changing environment is essential, as is a coordinated approach and willingness to take on new tasks.

Successful candidates will need to be proactive and organised with excellent attention to detail.

GDI Hub values inclusion as a core business success factor. We are a Disability Confident (Committed) employer and actively seek to attract employees from diverse backgrounds and particularly welcome applications for this role from disabled people and people from all cultural and faith backgrounds. The accommodation of reasonable adjustments is business as usual for us.

The role requires one day a week in our London based offices either in Stratford on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park or Euston Road.

Responsibilities

Personal assistant

• Manage complex calendars, scheduling internal and external meetings and setting reminders
• Prioritise appointments and resolve scheduling conflicts where these arise
• Ensure the CEO/Academic Directors time is used efficiently and plan for commitments in advance
• Track director credit/debit card spending and supply timely copies of receipts as required
• Collate/ process expense claims
• Monitor and manage inbox as required
• Point of contact for internal and external stakeholders

Travel & Logistics

• Arrange international travel, accommodation, transport and itineraries for both Directors and project staff
• Arrange travel visas for Directors
• Manage travel alterations and resolve issues promptly

Administrative Support

• Implement and maintain procedures/ administrative systems
• Support CEO/Director with line-management administration (1:1s, objective setting etc)
• Provide basic budget tracking and administration
• Maintain organised filing systems
• Draft and prepare routine correspondence
• Prepare presentations and documents
• Maintain accurate records and contact databases
• Provide IT support and troubleshooting where needed

Meeting & Document Preparation

• Assist CEO/Director with meeting prep as required
• Prepare agendas and collate meeting papers
• Take and distribute meeting notes/minutes where required
• Track actions and follow up on outstanding items

Team Assistant  

• Process staff travel claims for payment, checking receipts and sign off from line managers
• Logistical support for UK based events inc. away days for venues, travel, materials
• Logistical support for project events and workshops (UK & overseas) 
• Ad-hoc diary coordination for group events
• Contract management support; including due diligence info and evidence gathering
• Support Comms and other teams as required

This is not intended to be an exhaustive list and the need for flexibility, taking responsibility and working with other members of the team is required. The role-holder is expected to carry out any other related duties that are within their skills and abilities whenever reasonably instructed. This is a description of the role as it is at present. It is the practice of GDI Hub CIC to review role profiles regularly to ensure that they relate to the role being performed. These reviews will be carried out by the line manager in consultation with the role holder.

Experience and Qualifications

The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate the following criteria:  

Essential:

• Experience of providing excellent PA support to Directors
• Strong attention to detail
• Professional written communication
• Excellent judgement and discretion

Desirable:

• Experience of providing high level PA support to multiple directors
• Experience of general administration
• Experience of working in a university setting
• Interest in working for a community interest company
• Interest/ knowledge of the disability sector

Skills and abilities

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with attention to detail
• Excellent organisational and time management skills, including the ability to work effectively on numerous projects simultaneously – both independently and collaborativelyExcellent computer literacy across all Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Confident to learn new computer packages with ease (e.g. bespoke University finance systems)
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to liaise comfortably with all levels of staff external individuals
• Able to understand financial information

Attributes

• Patient and supportive
• Happy to use own initiative to suggest and try new approaches
• Adaptable and resilient with the ability to work effectively under pressure
• Flexible and excited to adapt to changing scenarios
• Personable and relatable
• Pride in creating streamline approaches to maximise outputs.

How to Apply

To apply for this role, please submit your CV and a covering letter via the 'Redirect to Recruiter' button describing how your skills and experience are relevant. Applications are considered as/when they come in so we encourage applying as soon as possible.  

AI Policy

GDI recognises that candidates may wish to use AI to support their job application. However, over reliance on AI-generated content is discouraged and may diminish your chance of success. AI can be used to enhance your application with regards to spelling, grammar and structure. However, the content and writing style must be your own and be reflective of your own skills and experience and personalisation is essential to convey your individual skills, knowledge, and experiences effectively.

GDI does not use AI as standard to shortlist applications or select candidates for interview.

We have made every effort to make this process accessible.  However, if for any reason you find it is not, please let us know and we will make an adjustment.  We encourage early applications.

Reminder: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

“The go-to organisation for a public health perspective”.

(Senior UK Government official)

The Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) is the representative body for Directors of Public Health in the UK. It has a rich heritage, with its origins dating back more than 160 years and is a collaborative organisation working in partnership with others to maximise the voice for public health.

We are now seeking a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through the next phase of its evolution, maintaining and building upon its established reputation and influence. The role requires a wide-ranging set of skills, capabilities and experience, proven leadership and credibility at the highest level. The successful candidate will have strong negotiating and influencing skills, and the ability to work independently, with board-level accountability, and be expected to develop and sustain extensive national networks across local authorities, the NHS, the voluntary sector and central Government. Possessing an adaptability in working practice together with a self-motivated, proactive approach that performs well under pressure, the successful candidate will be educated to Masters level with ongoing study in public health. In addition, they should have senior management training or equivalent experience and a clear record of continuing professional development. Experience should include at least five years in the public health environment, including in policy development, plus a minimum of three years in operational, financial and resource management.

Accountable to our Board of Trustees and the wider membership, the new CEO will develop the strategic direction of the Association and lead the organisation to deliver a rolling medium-term Strategic Business Plan, balanced budgets and effective governance in compliance with company and charity law. An ability to prioritise planned and reactive work programmes to meet the needs of our membership is required, alongside the sourcing and delivery of timely bids for external funding together with the management of staff and resources to ensure value for money and staff wellbeing.

The post holder will support the President, Vice‑President, Board and ADPH Council by applying public health knowledge through teaching, coaching, publishing and presenting as appropriate, maintaining a personal programme of continuing professional development, and be expected to uphold the Association’s values of members first, excellence, collaboration, inclusion and professionalism. Occasional travel, throughout the UK, and flexibility for occasional evening or weekend work will also be necessary.

To apply, submit a CV and a covering letter outlining your leadership experience, strategic achievements and vision for supporting Directors of Public Health across the UK.

We are looking for a Marketing Manager for a 12 month fixed term contract.  The Young People’s Borough of Culture Marketing Manager will plan, manage and deliver the marketing and audience development campaigns for Hammersmith & Fulham’s Young People’s Borough of Culture programme.

The role will sit within the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, who are taking responsibility for leading the Young People’s Borough of Culture programme on behalf of the Where Culture Connects H&F Cultural Compact. The lead partners for the programme are the Lyric, H&F Council and Earls Court Development Company, with the shared vision of implementing a new long-term model for young people, education and business sectors.

The role will oversee a discreet budget for promotion of programmes and events, which will span multiple disciplines, event types and locations across the borough. They will work closely with the Young People’s Borough of Culture working group and partner organisations to ensure audience targets are met, reaching a broad audience and ensuring the impact of the programme is appropriately highlighted.

Please download the job information pack below for full details of the post and how to apply.

A fantastic opportunity to join the Cure Parkinson’s Research team – a medical research charity supporting research to slow, stop or reverse Parkinson’s. Working with the Director of Research, this role will have management of Cure Parkinson’s clinical portfolio. The charity supports a large treatment selection process that feeds new clinical trials seeking disease modification. This is an exciting time in Parkinson’s research and there is the opportunity to have a really meaningful impact by joining the Cure Parkinson’s team as we expand our funding schemes and initiate new ventures.

As our Clinical Research Manager, you will have a PhD in life sciences (an MD or MBSS would be advantageous) and significant experience in clinical trial development. A healthcare professional engaged in medical research you will be looking to move to the charity sector to influence the strategic direction of the Parkinson’s research field and drive forward the search for a cure. You must have a strong understanding of Parkinson’s, the biology associated with the condition, and the agents currently in development. You will require excellent organisational and communication skills as you will be representing the charity via stakeholder engagement. Working as an effective member of our Research Team you will be able to handle multiple tasks with precision simultaneously and be comfortable building relationships and providing support for researchers.

The Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) is the representative body for Directors of Public Health in the UK with a rich heritage, its origins dating back more than 160 years. It is a collaborative organisation working in partnership with others to maximise the voice for public health.

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Administrator to play a central role in supporting the delivery of ADPH projects, networks, and events across the UK. This position is key to ensuring that all activity is recorded accurately, systems run smoothly, and members receive an exceptional level of support. Working closely with programme leads, you will contribute to the development and delivery of work programmes, maintain the membership database, and assist in the upkeep of internal systems.

You will work across the team to help plan, deliver, and evaluate projects, carrying out background research, analysing data, and coordinating smaller pieces of work independently. The role also involves organising meetings and events, both online and in person, facilitating smooth delivery and taking accurate minutes

A significant part of the role includes supporting our internal systems, particularly Salesforce and MS365. You will be expected to maintain user guides, support online member platforms, and help gather feedback to drive system improvements. Alongside this, you will contribute to internal and external communications, maintain data tracking for KPI reporting, and support ADPH’s regional networks.

This role requires excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively. You should be confident using Microsoft Office applications and be experienced in administrative work with a positive attitude and willingness to learn

All applications must be accompanied by a covering letter outlining why you believe you are suitable for the role to be considered for interview.

The Association operates a hybrid working model and candidates are welcome from across the UK, however attendance at regular monthly meetings in London will be required, further details are available by contacting as below ahead of any application if required.

Closing date Thursday 30th April, 12 moon.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a strategic, faith‑driven leader to shape and scale programmes that are transforming children’s lives across the UK.

Children and young people across the UK are facing a growing mental health crisis. At Transforming Lives for Good (TLG), we believe the local church has a vital role to play in responding - offering early, relational and therapeutic support that can fundamentally change life trajectories for children and families. Our vision is fullness of life for every child, no matter what struggles they face.

As Director of Programmes & Impact, you will be a key member of TLG’s Core Leadership Team, with responsibility for the growth, quality and impact of our UK‑wide programmes, currently supporting around 5,000 children in partnership with more than 220 churches. You will lead a talented senior team, pioneer new and existing models of support, and ensure everything we do delivers deep, measurable and meaningful change in children’s lives.

We are seeking a senior leader who can lead programmes at scale, use insight and evidence to drive impact, and navigate change and complexity with confidence. You will model prayerful, emotionally healthy leadership, with a deep commitment to therapeutic, trauma‑informed practice firmly rooted in the life and mission of the local church.

TLG is a Christian charity and, as a team, we want to bring our faith to the work we do; as such, we are recruiting an individual with a strong and vibrant Christian faith. We would welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds to enable us to better reflect the needs of the communities we serve.

Hours: 30 - 37.5 per week (0.8 – 1.0 FTE)

Closing Date: Sunday 26th April

Initial Interviews: Friday 1st May – Online

Final Interviews: Tuesday 12th May – at our National Support Centre in West Yorkshire

CPRE was set up 100 years ago with the aims of the ‘conservation of what is beautiful and interesting in our countryside and towns and villages; and the encouragement of the right type of development’.Today these words are just as relevant as when they were written in the 1920s and we campaign for good planning, protection from speculative development and the enhancement of nature and accessibility of our green spaces. 

CPRE Oxfordshire is an independent charity, federated with 40+ county charities and a national office, giving us local, regional and national reach.The Director will work with our Trustees and network of volunteers to formulate local strategy, run local campaigns and liaise with the National Charity.The Director is assisted by a small staff team. 

We are looking for an exceptional individual who can work with and motivate volunteers, take a strategic view on issues affecting the Oxfordshire countryside and represent CPRE Oxfordshire at County and National forums.The role also involves management of the small staff team, the oversight of our Governance including finances, reporting, budget, fundraising and volunteer management.

Responsibilities: 

The Branch Director is responsible for leading and managing the Branch’s activities and for reporting these to the Branch Chairman and Executive Committee.This includes: 

1. Policy and Strategy 

1.1 Contributing to and implementing our position statements and strategy, as agreed by the Branch Executive Committee, in order to respond effectively to Government policies, legislation and development issues affecting Oxfordshire’s countryside. 

1.2. Overseeing responses to consultations relevant to CPRE Oxfordshire. 

1.3 Maintaining good working relationships with National CPRE and other branches. 

1.4 Developing relationships with other local/national campaign groups and Parish Councils. 

2. Campaigns and projects  

2.1 Leading and managing local Branch campaigns and projects as agreed by the Board of Trustees. 

2.2 Managing Branch resources effectively to achieve campaign / project objectives, including use of the expertise of staff, branch consultants and volunteers. 

2.3 Developing new projects to align with remit of CPRE and extend the reach of the organisation 

3. Local Planning 

3.1 Enabling the Branch and District groups to respond effectively to strategic plans, local plans, neighbourhood planning, planning applications and related matters. 

3.2 Assisting with public inquiries and examinations, including preparing and presenting evidence. 

4. Membership & Fundraising 

4.1 Devising and implementing activities to increase recruitment of new CPRE members. 

4.2 Devising fundraising activities in line with agreed targets in collaboration with the membership and income generation working group. 

4.3 Promoting and maintaining active involvement of volunteers and recruiting new volunteers. 

5. Public Relations 

5.1 Ensuring CPRE Oxfordshire is promoted effectively to the public and stakeholders.

5.2. Maintaining oversight of charity communications through different media channels. 

6. Management of Staff, Volunteers, Budgets & Resources 

6.1 Leading and coordinating Branch staff and resources, in line with agreed priorities and budgets. 

6.2 Managing the Branch Office including the work of the staff team. 

We’re committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace at CPRE, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because diverse workplaces can make better and more creative decisions.Whatever your background, we welcome your application.

nterviews held on the 28th and 29th April 2026

We are seeking a purpose-driven and forward-thinking Director of Finance & Strategy with essential third sector experience, who is passionate about using their financial expertise to create meaningful impact and drive positive change in the world, while embracing technology and AI to strengthen, modernise, and evolve The Zahra Trust’s finance function.
This is a strategic leadership role that combines strong financial control with a clear focus on systems, data, and revenue insight. You will be responsible not only for financial governance, but also for building the infrastructure that enables the organisation to understand income performance, identify opportunities for growth, and respond quickly to changes in revenue.
You will also ensure that the organisation operates in line with charity finance regulations and best practice across all jurisdictions in which we operate.
You will play a central role in ensuring that financial data is accurate, accessible, and actionable — supporting decision-making across fundraising, marketing, and programme delivery.

Location: London (flexible working - 2-3 days in the office)

Interviews: 15th and 16th April 2026, and second stage interviews the following week on the 22nd April 2026. 

Employer: King's Trust International (not The King's Trust)

Around the world, 65 million young people are unemployed. Many more face the challenge of unstable, unsafe and underpaid work. King’s Trust International was founded by His Majesty King Charles to tackle the global crisis in youth unemployment and ensure that every young person has the chance to succeed. Central to our new 10-year strategy is the need to articulate the challenges and opportunities faced by young people and help them shape a better future.  We are recruiting a Director of Marketing, Communications and External Affairs to shape and share this story.

In this exciting and varied strategic and operational role, you will lead KTI’s marketing, communications and external affairs team with the aim of promoting and protecting King’s Trust International and The King’s Group, increasing awareness of our brand and our work for young people around the world. You will spearhead the establishment of our advocacy function and play a key role in research commissioning, awareness raising and coalition creation.  This will involve attendance at key global events, the commissioning of proprietary research, and guiding the marketing and communication strategies that will bring these narratives into the public consciousness.

You will be an experienced and dynamic communicator with significant demonstrable experience in communications, marketing and external affairs at a senior level. This will be complemented by strong knowledge of the full range of media, marketing and communications tools, and how to deploy them effectively to maximise the reach, impact and value of our brand.

In addition, you will have excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to confidently build and maintain strong relationships with a diverse group of people and stakeholders. Possessing strong management skills, you will have experience of managing small multi-disciplinary teams, providing direction and leadership to enable growth and development, and the ability to role-model a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion.

Perks for working at The King’s Trust International:

• Great holiday package. 30 days annual leave entitlement, plus public holidays. Office closure the days between Christmas and New Year
• Fantastic Family leave. Receive 13 weeks full pay and 13 weeks half pay for maternity and adoption leave, and pro rata entitlement for shared parental leave. Receive 8 weeks' full pay for paternity leave.
• Flexible and agile working. Where operationally possible, you can work your hours that support a work-life balance, including compressed hours and hybrid-working (part office - part home-based) or working from home options.
• Benefits platform. Everything from health and financial wellbeing support to discounts on your favourite restaurants, shops and cinemas
• A free employee assistance programme (EAP) to support your mental wellbeing.
• KTI will contribute 5% of your salary to the workplace Pension Scheme
• Generous life assurance cover (4 x annual salary)
• In-house and external training opportunities are available throughout the year

At Humanists UK, our dream is of a tolerant world where rational thinking and kindness prevail. Our dedicated staff of 35 and hundreds of volunteers work hard to achieve this aim and we now have a vacancy for a Head of Communications & Marketing.

Is this the right position for you?

We’re looking for a Head of Communications & Marketing to advance greater public understanding of humanism by reaching new and growing audiences. The role also comes with strategic responsibility for improving brand awareness and driving sales for key products and brands, including Humanist Ceremonies (non-religious weddings, funerals, and naming ceremonies), the award-winning New Humanist magazine (est. 1885), podcasts, books, and a nationwide programme of prestige events and festivals.

This is a senior role with real scope. You will lead our communications team across print, digital, events, and marketing, and make sure what we put out is clear, compelling, consistent, and rooted in our purpose. As well as marketing, this role has responsibility for content, including for our website and social media channels, making sure these are updated with high-quality, accessible, engaging, and well-optimised educational and brand-building materials pitched at a range of target audiences.

This role is about leadership as much as delivery. You’ll be responsible for maintaining a clear organisational communications grid, and for working closely with colleagues across the organisation, particularly the Head of Press & Campaign Communications and the Head of Fundraising, to make sure our messaging, brand, and tone are joined up and effective.

You will be at your best when working to ambitious but achievable KPIs and making strategic decisions on the basis of evidence, including open and clickthrough rates, A/B testing, site behaviour and visit numbers, sales conversions, surveys, and feedback.

If you are ready to take a step up in your career this role could be a perfect opportunity. If you don't have experience at this level already you will need to be able to showcase to us – both at interview, and in your application – that you have significant experience of decision-making for communications or marketing in a complex organisation. You’ll also need to convince us of your ability to balance leading on strategy with hands-on problem-solving. You’ll be comfortable setting priorities, making judgement calls, and giving clear direction to your direct reports, while also collaborating well across departments and supporting less experienced staff to do their best work. We’re looking for someone who can think long-term, but who also cares about the details and the day-to-day reality of getting communications right.

Head to our website and apply there. Applications must be submitted by 17:00 14 April, 2026.

Shortlisting and interviews

Candidates short-listed for interview will be notified by 17:00 on 22 April 2026. Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held during the week of 27 April 2026 at our offices at 3 Waterhouse Square, London, EC1N 2SW.

If you have any questions about the post, please feel free to contact the hiring manager, Liam Whitton, by email - he will be very happy to talk more about the role with you.

If there is anything that would help you bring your best self to the interview, please let us know.

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.

Location: Based in our London office E1, with frequent travel to our stores across London and to our warehouse in Canning Town. Some homeworking available in line with Crisis’ Hybrid Working Policy.

About the role

As Director of Retail, you will provide bold strategic leadership to grow and strengthen the organisation’s retail operation, creating an innovative and inspiring pre-loved retail experience across both shops and online. Working collaboratively with the Executive Director of Commerce & Enterprise and wider teams, you will drive sustainable income growth, expand the retail portfolio, and integrate e-commerce to deliver a seamless omnichannel offer. With an impactful focus on achieving ambitious revenue targets and building strategic partnerships, you will use retail as a powerful platform to engage communities and supporters in Crisis’s mission to end homelessness.

You will lead and develop a high-performing team of staff and volunteers, fostering an equitable and inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed. Through inspiring leadership and clear direction, you will ensure operational excellence, innovation, and outstanding customer experience across the retail estate. Combining commercial acumen with purpose-driven leadership, this role will ensure Crisis’s retail growth is not only financially strong but also socially impactful, helping to create lasting change for people experiencing homelessness.

About you

We are looking for an experienced and strategic retail leader with a proven record of growing and transforming retail operations, ideally within the charity or high street sector. You will bring strong people leadership and financial acumen, a passion for charity retail, an understanding of e-commerce, and the ability to turn strategic vision into clear operational delivery. With experience leading large and dispersed teams, you will be an inspirational and collaborative leader who empowers others to perform at their best while fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.

You will have the skills to drive income growth and customer engagement across both physical and digital channels, underpinned by a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences. With sound knowledge of health, safety, and safeguarding, you’ll ensure Crisis’s retail spaces are safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all. Above all, you’ll share our commitment to ending homelessness and live our values — being Bold in your ambition, Impactful in your leadership, Collaborative in your approach, and Equitable in how you support staff, volunteers, and communities.

Please visit our website to view the job pack.

Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions, we encourage you to apply.

We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities, and backgrounds.

Working at Crisis

Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.

Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.

As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:

• A competitive salary. Please note our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage.
• Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy.
• Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5%
• 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption pay.
• Flexible working around the core hours 10am-4pm
• Wellbeing Leave to be used flexibly
• And more! (Full list of benefits available on website)

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience, and career.

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

How do I apply?

Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.

Closing date: Sunday 12 April 2026 at 23:59

Interview format:

Stakeholder panel: Wednesday 27 April 2026 at one of our London shops. This will involve meeting with a panel of key stakeholders for an informal conversation where you can learn more about the role, organisation and ask questions.

Main panel interview date and location: Wednesday 29 April 2026 at our London office, E1. The interview will be a range of competency, values and hypothetical questions and there will be a presentation.

AI in Job Applications

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences

Accessibility

We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email our Talent Acquisition team to discuss how we can help.

Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094

Context and Purpose of the Role

After five years of dedicated leadership, GROW’s Managing Director is moving on. We are now seeking an exceptional, values-led leader to guide GROW through the next phase of our 2030 strategy and help realise our ambition to become a movement-shaping force within agroecology.

GROW is entering a pivotal stage of growth. Our focus now is on strengthening team capacity, centring community voice, developing pathways to leadership and employment, deepening hyper-local networks, and contributing more visibly to the agroecology sector.

With strong financial foundations, a committed team, and a long-standing partnership with a progressive secondary school, this is a rare opportunity to lead an organisation uniquely positioned at the intersection of farming, education, and community action.

The Managing Director will provide clear strategic direction and overall leadership, ensuring GROW remains responsibly-governed, financially resilient, and grounded in its agroecological values. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, they will nurture and inspire a multidisciplinary team of 16 employees and freelancers, strengthen key partnerships, and guide the organisation’s continued development and impact.

Job Title: Managing Director
Reports to: Board of Trustees
Salary: £48,000-£53,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full Time, 40 hours per week (9am-5pm with 1-hour paid lunch break)
Location: Hybrid. Minimum 3 days a week on site at The Totteridge Academy, Barnet Lane, N20 8AZ (more days on site expected for the first 3-6 months)
Pension: GROW participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 30% off all GROW Farm produce, annual training budget, subsidised lunches, and a generous holiday allowance of 28 days plus bank holidays.
Probation period: 6 months

GROW is a site-based organisation, and our farm sits at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for a Managing Director who is as comfortable talking with students, volunteers and visitors as they are shaping strategy and leading the organisation’s future. This is a role for a thoughtful, adaptable and hands-on leader who can hold the big picture while staying closely connected to our farm, outdoor programmes and the communities we work alongside.

Leadership at GROW is practical, relational and rooted in place. One day you might be gathering feedback from our Student Board of Advisors, listening to how our programmes are working for the young people who shape them. The next, you might be at the farm stall chatting with local community members selling jars of GROW’s homemade pickles. The Managing Director helps ensure that these everyday moments remain central to the organisation.

The successful candidate will lead a small, committed team of 16 staff, nurturing a culture that is collaborative, knowledgeable and grounded in our values. They will guide GROW’s strategic direction while staying attentive to the daily rhythms of farm and school life that make it a vibrant place for learning, growing and connection. 

Trustees recognise the breadth of this role and are committed to strengthening the organisation’s operational capacity. An early priority for the new Managing Director will be to shape and secure support for an additional capacity-building role that complements their leadership and enables GROW to thrive in the years ahead.

1. Strategy, Governance & Risk

• Provide overall leadership and strategic development of the charity.
• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Trustees quarterly.
• Ensure charity policies and legal guidelines are up to date, clearly communicated, and embedded in everyday culture.
• Ensure statutory filings (e.g. Charity Commission, Companies House) are accurate and timely.
• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, including charity law, employment law, data protection, health & safety, safeguarding, and environmental regulations.
• Lead on crisis management and serious incident reporting.
• Prepare high-quality written reports for Board and sub-committee meetings.
• Advise Trustees on strategic opportunities, risks, and sector trends. Support Trustee recruitment, induction, and development.
• Enable Trustees to fulfil their governance responsibilities effectively.
• Engage relevant professional expertise where appropriate to support decision making. 

2. Operations, Education & Farm

• Ensure operational resilience, deputising and covering critical functions during staff absence.
• Work closely with Education Leads to develop the quality of our educational
• programmes, ensuring they align with agroecological principles.
• Ensure thorough Risk Assessments are completed, communicated, and
• implemented for all activities and programmes.
• Support the income generation strategy for the Farm.
• Support the Farm Manager with infrastructure development, including planning permission applications.

3. Finance & Fundraising

• Act as the main point of contact for the charity’s accountants.
• Develop and oversee organisational budgets, leading annual budget-setting and ongoing monthly, quarterly, and forecast reviews.
• Develop and deliver the annual income generation and fundraising strategy with the Head of Fundraising.
• Oversee effective impact reporting with the Head of Fundraising.
• Develop and implement plans to improve cost-efficiency.
• Support the completion of large and complex fundraising bids.

4. Partnerships

• Act as the main point of contact for GROW’s key partner, The Totteridge Academy (TTA), and the Academy Trust, United Learning, to ensure the partnership is effective and positive.
• Build and develop partnerships with schools, youth services, local authority, community growing networks and organisations to support the long-term development of educational programmes and participant recruitment and local environmental impact.

5. Marketing & Profile

• Oversee the charity’s overall marketing and communications strategy.
• Retain strategic oversight of all core marketing and communications, including the press opportunities, charity’s website, printed materials, and promotional content, ensuring that GROW’s voice, values, and impact are communicated clearly and consistently.
• Build and enhance the charity’s public profile through events, speaking engagements, and external representation.

6. People, HR & Safeguarding

• Manage and support the team to effectively perform their roles and develop within GROW, ensuring staff are fully trained and confident with organisational policies.
• Lead the recruitment and onboarding of all staff in line with Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and Safeguarding policies, and Safer Recruitment best practice.
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead and ensure compliance with any safeguarding requirements set by partner school, The Totteridge Academy.
• Be rigorously mindful of child safeguarding at all times, embedding safeguarding policies in everyday culture and remain up to date with relevant legislation and training.
• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.
• Develop progressive internal systems, policies, and training that promote a fair, inclusive, and supportive workplace, grounded in our agroecological principles.
• Ensuring the organisation is GDPR compliant and acts as the Data Protection Lead.

7. Values & Culture

• Act as a role model for GROW’s guiding agroecological principles and organisational values in all internal and external relationships.
• Create a supportive, nurturing, high-trust culture in which staff and freelancers can thrive.
• Champion a culture of reflection, evaluation, and continuous improvement.
• Centre community voice in decision making, governance, and organisational strategy

Direct reports:
Farm Manager
TTA Education Lead
Senior Facilitator
Head of Fundraising
Freelance Programme Leads

This job description is not exhaustive; as a small and evolving charity, flexibility is essential and all staff are expected to take a hands-on approach and support wider organisational needs where required.
 

Person Specification

Essential Personal Qualities

• Strong alignment with GROW’s mission, agroecological principles, and organisational values.
• Ability to lead and nurture a strong, cohesive, and collaborative team intuitively
• and with empathy.
• Resilient and adaptable.
• Calm under pressure.
• Collaborative by nature and solution-focussed in approach.
• Strong commitment to inclusive working practices and social justice.

Essential Experience

• Significant experience working in a Senior Leadership role within a not-for-profit,
• education, and/or environmental sectors.
• Experience of building and maintaining successful partnership work, for example
• with farms, schools, local authorities, funders, and/or community organisations.
• Significant experience of managing and developing staff and freelancers in a
• small team.
• Proven ability to lead organisational strategy and translate it into operational plans.
• Experience working with, and reporting to, a Board or governing body.
• Experience of financial management, including budgets, forecasting, and working with accountants.
• Track record in contributing to fundraising, including securing major bids.
• Strong understanding of governance, compliance, and risk in a regulated environment.
• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth, or community context.
• Understanding of legal, progressive and inclusive HR systems and policies.
• Ability to develop and oversee marketing and communications that clearly articulate organisational mission, build community engagement and support financial sustainability.
• Demonstrable experience handling and reviewing legal documentation, including contracts, leases, and formal agreements.

Essential Skills & Abilities

• Strategic thinker, able to see and drive forward the “big picture” while managing operational detail.
• Skilled and inclusive people manager, able to motivate, develop, and challenge others.
• Excellent, adaptable and confident communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise and manage a broad and competing workload.
• Effective decision-making and ability to work independently with accountability.
• Strong relationship-builder with credibility across diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to lead teams through change and uncertainty.
• Strong organisational and administrative capability.
• Sound judgement and a high level of discretion when handling confidential or sensitive matters.

Desirable

• Experience or knowledge of agroecological farming.
• Experience working with local councils, schools, academy trusts, and authorities.
• Knowledge of charity and regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of the local Barnet area.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

At GROW we’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All qualified and eligible applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, gender identity or expression, race, national origin, religion or belief,
disability, age, sexual orientation or pregnancy and maternity. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and identities, especially those who are under-represented in the charity and food growing sectors. This includes, but is not limited to, people from the global majority, neurodivergent individuals, and those with a range of lived experiences. 

We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of our community and brings a rich mix of perspectives, skills, cultures, and ways of thinking.