Director of communications jobs

Longer working lives and ongoing economic transitions are reshaping careers: how we start them, and how we move through them. But too many people remain paid in low-paid, low-quality work – with damaging consequences for them personally, and our economy as a whole. We’re seeking a senior, policy-oriented research leader to help us and our partners generate insights that enable more people to move into and progress through better work.

You’ll have a proven track record in scoping and securing funding for research and influencing activity, with significant autonomy to lead your own programme at L&W. You’ll be supported by committed researchers and managers whom you will coach, lead, and develop—alongside a peer group of Deputy Directors working across other key pillars. We welcome quantitative expertise, but most important are the skills to design and deliver high-quality, impactful research programmes.

You’ll join an organisation with a national reputation for driving policy change—and a friendly, highly capable, delivery-focused team. 

Location: Hybrid working: 40-60% in an L&W office. Our offices for this role are currently in Leicester and London, but if you are based elsewhere, please contact us to talk about how the role could work for you.

Team:Research and Development

Salary:£64,450 -£77,880 per annum (pro rata), dependent on experience and location

Duration:Permanent

Working hours:0.8 to 1 FTE, with flexible working supported (e.g. condensed hours, flexible start and finish times)

Main Purpose

The Deputy Director, Policy and Research (Better Work and Progression) will have overall ownership of the ‘Better Work’ pillar of our strategic plan at L&W: overseeing all projects and activity in this area and generating new work (including developing project ideas and securing funding).

While there is significant scope to shape the ongoing programme of research and impact work, we anticipate that key areas of focus in this area going forward will be: understanding & better supporting career change; understanding and improving policy to increase employer investment in skills; high quality and fair access apprenticeships and technical education; understanding how to better support progression from low pay.

They will be a senior leader for the organization – helping to continuously shape our strategy and the plans we are implementing to deliver it.

Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership and management

• Intellectual leadership of the Better Work pillar: developing and owning policy positions, messages, theory of change and research priorities, and supporting the wider team to feed into and understand them
• Line management of senior and mid-level staff
• Act as a senior leader at L&W – including taking on specific organization-level responsibilities where appropriate

Income

• Write and/or co-ordinate responses to reactive research and evaluation tenders in the areas of employment, better work and progression
• Develop pro-active proposals that will drive change in your area, and respond to the interests of funders and partners
• Build relationships with current and potential funders and research partners

Impact

• Act as an external expert on the issues of better work and progression: writing press quotes, articles and blogs;speaking on platforms
• Building relationships with practitioners, policymakers and partners to improve our insights, and get our recommendations implemented
• Develop appropriate means of tracking impact towards our better work goals, and monitor against them. 

Delivery

• Deputy Director/Project Director-level oversight of projects being delivered in your and related areas: supporting project team to shape research plans, deliver sharp insights and manage funder relationships
• Quality Assurance of research proposals and outputs
• Use your research skills and experience to support the wider development of the Learning and Work team

Person Specification

Experience

Experience of developing, overseeing and delivering programmes of policy-relevant research at a high level - Essential

Experience of business development in a policy/research context: developing ideas, writing bids and building relationships with funders- Essential

Experience of building senior-level relationships with external stakeholders for impact and influence -Essential

Track record of delivering national and/or local policy change - Essential

Experience of senior organisational leadership as part of a team - Desirable 

Experience of responding to tenders- Desirable 

Skills

Advanced research skills (qualitative of quantitative) -Essential

Quantitative skills: experience of using key national research and administrative data sets to generate insights into the labour market -Desirable 

Clear and direct written communication style - Essential

Knowledge

Knowledge of, and commitment to, L&W’s charitable aims and purpose.- Essential

Demonstrable knowledge of employment and/or skills policy in the UK - Essential

Demonstrable knowledge in the specific areas of Better Work and/or progression -Desirable 

Learning and Work Institute works across the UK. Our work in Wales is led by a Cardiff based team, but all staff are required to follow the guidance set out in our Welsh language scheme when working in Wales.

Location: The Baytree Centre, London

Hours: 28 hours per week (4 days, to be agreed between Monday–Friday, 9AM–6PM)

Salary: £35,000–£39,000 per annum (FTE, pro‑rated according to hours worked)

Application Process: Please see the full job description; application form and instructions for applying on our website. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

Eligibility: This role is open to women only under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010. Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK; visa sponsorship is not available.

Contract: Permanent

About the Role

As Corporate Partnerships Manager, you will drive Baytree’s corporate fundraising by developing innovative partnership opportunities, nurturing strong relationships, and securing income and strategic support. You will work closely with the Fundraising & Communications Director to shape and deliver the organisation’s corporate partnerships strategy. This is a hands‑on and impact‑driven role for someone who enjoys relationship‑building, strategic thinking, and contributing to a mission supporting women and girls.

Key Responsibilities

Partnership Acquisition & Stewardship

• Identify, secure, and grow new corporate partnerships delivering income, pro bono support, gifts‑in‑kind, and strategic value.
• Create compelling pitches, proposals, and case studies.
• Steward existing partners and produce high‑quality impact reports.

Fundraising Campaigns & Events

• Lead the planning and delivery of major fundraising campaigns (e.g., The Big Give, Baytree anniversaries).

Cross‑Team Collaboration

• Work closely with internal teams to align partnerships with organisational priorities.
• Coordinate with service delivery to offer opportunities such as career insight days and work experience.
• Partner with the Volunteer Manager to deliver purposeful corporate volunteering.

Other Responsibilities

• Ensure GDPR compliance and accurate reporting on Views and Beacon CRM.

What we're looking for

Essential

• Proven experience in securing and growing corporate partnerships.
• Strong communication, influencing, and relationship‑building skills.
• Ability to meet funder requirements, including monitoring and evaluation.
• Highly organised, detail‑oriented, and committed to confidentiality.
• Strong commitment to Baytree’s mission and openness to its Christian ethos.

Desirable

• Experience working with women and girls in disadvantaged communities.
• Experience managing or coordinating projects or volunteers.
• Familiarity with CRM and data platforms such as Beacon, QuickBooks, or Views.

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People – Associate Director of Performance Marketing
Location: Hybrid working with some travel to Hearing Dogs offices in either Buckinghamshire or East Yorkshire.
Salary: £65-70,000 per annum.
Contract: Permanent, full-time hours. 

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, whose mission is build confidence, companionship and connection for people with hearing loss, is seeking a talented Associate Director of Performance Marketing to drive marketing activities that will help them expand their reach, mobilise support and build understanding and awareness.

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People has been creating life-changing partnerships between hearing dogs and deaf recipients since 1982. As well as acting as an ear to their partners and alerting them to sounds, the charity’s clever and expertly trained dogs help deaf people to live life with confidence and independence, whilst providing love, companionship and emotional support. This is coupled with the provision of emotional and practical support services for anyone with hearing loss.

Following on from a strategic review, the charity is now entering an exciting period of growth and expanding their Individual Giving Directorate, to enable them to transform many more lives across the UK.

Playing a pivotal role in supporting this growth, the Associate Director of Performance Marketing is a newly created and influential position with significant scope to shape how Hearing Dogs grows their supporter base, sustains their supporter and volunteer community and attracts more people to their services through impactful digital and multi-channel marketing. The postholder will lead marketing activity that is insight-led and audience focused to ensure that each campaign strengthens connection, builds loyalty and generates sustainable income. This includes being responsible for growing the charity’s flagship Puppy Sponsorship programme to increase value and volume, establishing a legacy marketing programme and identifying opportunities for cross-selling and deeper engagement across all products.  

The ideal candidate will be a senior strategic leader responsible for driving individual giving growth and supporter retention through digital and multi-channel marketing. You will have a strong commercial, income generation and digital background, you will lead marketing that is insight led and have a deep understanding of how AI technologies can help the charity enhance performance. Advanced skills in using data, analytics and audience insight to shape strategy, optimise campaigns and measure impact will be essential, alongside strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to inspire and develop high-performing teams. Finally, you will have excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills at a senior level.

This is an exciting opportunity to help Hearing Dogs shape their future with the flexibility of hybrid working remotely and spending time at Hearing Dogs’ stunning offices, with friendly and passionate staff and their four-legged friends.

If you want to lead the pack and help deaf people live well with hearing loss Please download our Candidate Pack for further information [PDF], which includes details on how to apply.

Closing date: Monday 26th January, 9.00 am. 

The Membership Engagement & Communications Manager will lead on the planning and delivery of integrated member engagement strategies, events, communications and partnerships that enhance brand visibility, support our five-year business plan and strengthen stakeholder relationships.

You will also support overall Member engagement activities, maintaining voter contact and data accuracy on our CRM system.

This role will require creativity, organisation, stakeholder engagement and a strong ability to deliver results across predominantly B2B environments, whilst working as part of a small but supportive Marketing and Communications team to champion The Fitzrovia Partnership brand.

Collaboration across departments and consistent communication are critical for success. 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Member Engagement 

· Build strong, visible relationships with members across all BID areas. 

· Deliver regular contact and visibility of The Fitzrovia Partnership’s services, events, and opportunities. 

· Escalate business-specific needs to support strategic engagement planning. 

· Maintain accurate CRM records, supporting partnership, ballot, and KPI tracking. 

· Attend and represent The Fitzrovia Partnership at member events and forums. 

· Support planning and execution of engagement events and campaigns. 

· Contribute data and updates to support internal reporting. 

· Assist in delivery of all Member engagement, with a focus on targeted communications and events. 

Communications

· Lead and manage all Member communications, including newsletters and special project communications

· Maintain accurate and up-to-date membership materials for use in member communications.

· Act as brand guardian for all corporate content and visual identity.

· Prepare and deliver executive communications on behalf of senior leaders as needed.

· Regularly and proactively engage with members and external partners to source content, opinions and for external communications.

Event Planning, Delivery and Reporting

· Lead the planning, delivery, promotion and evaluation of Member events.

· Oversee the annual events calendar across the company, website and event listings, ensuring they are in line with company objectives.

· Manage supplier and venue relationships, ensuring events are delivered on time and within budget.

· Collaborate across departments to ensure events align with wider business objectives and advise on requirements as needed.

· Champion quality and branding standards across events.

· Lead on promotion of events and attendee engagement strategies

· Monitor spend to ensure events remain within budget and collect post-event feedback for continuous improvement.

· Lead the reporting on events, evaluating effectiveness against event objectives and company mission.

Team Support and Collaboration 

· Work cross-functionally to integrate member engagement activities into broader initiatives. 

· Share business and member insights to refine engagement strategies and inform cross-team coordination. 

· Provide data to support performance reporting.

Person Specification 

Essential 

· A motivated and enthusiastic self-starter

· At least 3 years’ experience in member engagement, stakeholder engagement or account management.

· Excellent copywriting skills along with an aptitude for proof reading

· Strong communicator with a professional and approachable manner, confident for face to face and remote interactions. 

· Organised and detail-focused; adept at managing multiple priorities. 

· Proactive and flexible; able to work independently and as a team contributor. 

· Responsible and accountable; takes accountability for own workload and timely deliverables of work.

· Proficient in CRM or database systems for data management. 

· Strong interpersonal and collaborative working skills. 

Desirable 

· Analytical and comfortable looking to identify trends in data, with support. 

· Understanding of Member organisations, Member engagement and renewal cycles.

· Experience in business-facing roles. 

How to apply

To apply for this role, please send a maximum 2-page cover letter and your CV.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview the w/c Monday 9 February 2026.

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

We are seeking a Communications and Marketing Manager to shape how our work is seen, understood and engaged with across local government and public policy. This role will lead the day-to-day delivery of our communications and marketing activity at a moment of growing influence and impact for the organisation.

Working horizontally across New Local’s practice, membership, policy and events work, the postholder will help ensure our ideas, relationships and activity are brought together coherently and effectively for our audiences. You will play a central role in developing compelling stories from our research, practice and partnerships, including the work of member councils. To do this, an interest in and understanding of the changing relationship between citizens and the state at a local level will be an important asset. 

This is a hands-on role for an experienced communications professional who combines strong editorial and digital skills with a willingness to think strategically, sound judgement and creativity. Success will be measured not just by the quality of individual outputs, but by the extent to which New Local’s communications feel joined-up, collaborative and mutually reinforcing across teams, extending the reach, influence and impact of our work. 

Your job will include: 

• Leading and delivering New Local’s communications and marketing activity, aligning content, channels and campaigns with organisational priorities and positioning. 

• Planning and coordinating communications for key publications, events, campaigns and moments, managing an editorial calendar that brings together policy, practice, membership and external opportunities. 

• Overseeing New Local’s digital presence, including the website, newsletters and social media, ensuring content is timely, engaging and high quality. 

• Working horizontally across teams to align messaging and identify shared stories, shaping joined-up communications that support membership growth, events, partnerships and policy influence. 

• Creating and commissioning high-quality content and assets, including written content, design and digital materials, drawing out strong stories from members and partners. 

• Using media, insight and data to extend reach and impact, supporting press engagement, monitoring performance and continuously improving communications activity. 

And more… As part of a small, friendly organisation you’ll have the opportunity to participate in other activities and support the wider development and delivery of New Local’s vision and strategy. 

Please visit our website for the full job description and details on how to apply. 

Candidates will be contacted for interview by Monday 9 February 2026.

First round interviews will include a task and will take place online on 16 and 17 February 2026

Second round interviews will take place on Thursday 26 February and Monday 2 March 2026.

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.

Founded in 1927, the University of Hull has a long and proud history. Through our teaching, research and civic engagement, we are helping to shape and deliver the future prosperity of our region and far beyond. 

Leading the Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement team, the Director will drive the design and implementation of the University’s inaugural comprehensive fundraising campaign, launching it at the culmination of our centenary celebrations in summer 2028. Building on progress made to date, the Director will leverage the centenary to elevate the roles of philanthropy and alumni engagement in support of the University’s future ambitions. 

Person specification: 
- Extensive knowledge of philanthropy, preferably within higher education, including fundraising best practice
- Extensive knowledge of alumni engagement and its role in building connections and supporting wider institutional priorities
- Demonstrable track record of building relationships and working with prospects to secure gifts at the six-figure level and above
- Experience of leading philanthropic campaigns and exceeding fundraising targets
- Experience of leading and managing teams carrying out philanthropic and/or engagement activities 
- Experience of strategic and data-driven operational planning and performance management

Dixon Walter is leading the candidate search on behalf of the University. For more information and details of how to apply by 15 February, please see the candidate brief.

#Director
#DirectorPhilanthropyandAlumniEngagement
#UniversityofHull

Opportunity to lead the development of a small but vital York charity in its 25th year

Older Citizens Advocacy York - Support and advocacy for over 50s in York

Here at OCAY we are very proud of what we do

• 520 people supported in the last year
• Provide assistance with benefits, finance, health, complaints and more
• Help people to navigate bureaucracy, financial hardship and communication barriers
• Empower individuals to have their voices heard and access the right information

Our current director is taking the next step in her career and we are commencing the search for a new director. The role is full-time at 37 hours per week (also open to part-time at 30 hours minimum). This is a hybrid role with home working and an expectation of at least 2-3 days a week in our office at the Priory Street Centre, York.

Why join OCAY?

• Financially sustainable charity with funding secured until 2029 and exciting funded projects and partnerships in the pipeline
• Highly regarded organisation with an active and visible local presence
• Established relationships with partners, funders and the public sector
• A talented, ambitious team
• Committed to building on our income generation strategy and service development

Main responsibilities

• Be at the heart of the charity’s strategic development over the next 3 years, driving exciting initiatives and growth.
• Lead and co-ordinate all aspects of OCAY’s services, ensuring a high quality of provision for its clients and maintaining a continuous improvement focus.
• Develop and broaden excellent relationships and work collaboratively with volunteers, funders, partners and Trustees.
• Build and maintain a sustainable financial basis for OCAY’s future development.
• Take the lead in writing and submitting fund raising bids and submissions. • Managing a small but highly effective staff team while recruiting, expanding and supporting local volunteers to deliver personalised one-to-one support.

About OCAY

OCAY is a niche charity founded in 2001 offering people over 50 in the York area, advocacy and practical support to access services and benefits. Our dedicated, knowledgeable and compassionate volunteers and staff provide prompt, personalised one-to-one support.

Director of Fundraising

Location: Hammersmith, London (2 or 3 days per week in the office)
Hours: 37.5 per week
Salary: £75,000–£80,000 per annum
Reporting to: Chief Executive
Term: Permanent

Aquilas is delighted to be partnering with The Honeypot Children’s Charity to recruit a visionary Director of Fundraising to lead the organisation into its next phase of growth and impact.

About Honeypot:

For over 30 years, Honeypot has supported young carers aged 5–12 across the UK, providing respite and learning breaks alongside a holistic range of services. We create safe, nurturing environments where children facing demanding home responsibilities can thrive and reach their full potential.

Our work supports children caring for a sick or disabled parent or sibling through ongoing, tailored services including respite and educational breaks, wellbeing grants, healthy eating and nutrition support, and pastoral care. We focus on early intervention and work in partnership with more than 130 referral organisations to provide sustained support for up to eight years, depending on individual need.

About the role:

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Fundraising will lead and deliver ambitious fundraising strategies, grow income streams, strengthen partnerships, and secure sustainable funding to support Honeypot’s vital work. The successful candidate will bring proven fundraising leadership experience, strong relationship-building skills, and a genuine passion for improving outcomes for young carers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver the fundraising strategy
• Lead, manage, and inspire the fundraising team
• Build and maintain relationships with major donors, corporates, and grant-makers
• Ensure compliance and best practice in fundraising
• Grow income through Charity of the Year partnerships

Person Specication:

• Proven track record in income generation
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Charity sector experience (desirable)

To Apply:

To receive a candidate pack or arrange a confidential conversation, please contact:

Kieran McGorrian, Head of Not for Profit Appointments, Aquilas (contact details in candidate pack)

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. 

​About the team​

The Communications team at Impetus is a small, friendly, creative team that punches above its weight. Sitting alongside our brilliant Policy colleagues within the wider Public Affairs team we are passionate about communicating Impetus’ work with clarity, in a way that resonates with our audiences, and increases our influence and impact.

Aspiring to be a ‘digital first’ organisation, we spend time keeping up with digital communications trends to improve our efficiency and help us produce and optimise engaging, cutting-edge content. 

​

About this role

We’re looking someone who can support the team to maintain our strong online presence by delivering engaging, creative digital content. This role is about collaborating with colleagues, applying your knowledge of digital platforms, and actively developing your skills to keep pace with emerging trends.

Based in our busy Communications team, you will be responsible for creating compelling and engaging online copy for a range of platforms, as well as managing and growing our social media communities to amplify our brand, working across the organisation, for example:

• Supporting our Philanthropy team to engage donors in our work and through our series of events.
• Helping our Policy team to increase the knowledge of their recommendations for change among opinion formers and decision makers through social media.
• Working directly with the Investment team and our portfolio partners to gather and share their insights and stories.

Day-to-day you might be writing and repurposing blog content for our online channels, working with our Creative Content Officer and Media and Communications Officer producing multi-media content to support our events programme, or using insights and data to keep our digital content relevant and our audiences engaged.

We are looking for someone creative and driven, who shares our ambition and can help keep us on top of emerging digital trends.

You’ll know your way around social media platforms including X / Twitter and LinkedIn and tools like and Hootsuite and Google Analytics. You will also be able to produce excellent written content for an online audience including social media posts and blogs, with scope to grow within the role over time.

This is an exciting time to join a rapidly growing organisation. We’ll give you creative freedom within a clear brand framework. And your work will have a tangible impact on tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

​Key responsibilities

• Writing clear, concise and engaging copy for a variety of online platforms including social media, blogs, websites and email marketing.
• Supporting the Senior Communications Manager to manage our online brand, including how people interact with and interpret our work, by creating and scheduling content for social media and digital platforms using agreed templates and tone of voice.
• Liaising closely with our Creative Content Officer and Media and Communications Officer to produce compelling multi-media products that can be used across our platforms.
• Maintaining accurate records and trackers for posts, engagement data, and campaign timelines.
• Supporting the Communications team by preparing materials for events and online campaigns.
• Monitoring and optimising our digital channels, ensuring content is consistently high-quality, well structured, on brand and performing at its best. 
• Using data and feedback to improve content quality and relevance.
• Collaborating with colleagues across teams to ensure consistency and timely delivery of our digital communications content.
• Assisting the Head of Communications in the development, implementation and monitoring of our internal communications strategy, including our regular staff newsletter.
• Working with our portfolio partners and the Investment team to gather and share their insights and stories.
• Escalating risks or delays early, providing clear context and options.
• Applying inclusive language and accessibility standards in all content.
• Actively seeking opportunities to learn about new digital tools and trends. 

​Person specification

​Essential​

• A highly developed understanding of online platforms and social media algorithms.
• Experience creating accurate, engaging content for online platforms.
• Experience of working with social media platforms e.g. LinkedIn and X, and tools e.g. Hootsuite and Google Analytics.
• A track record of writing concise and engaging content that resonates with the target audience and presents complex subjects in a clear and compelling way.
• Ability to adapt content strategies to meet the changing needs of the audience and the platform.
• Experience of using data and insights to optimise content, engagement and grow followers.
• Demonstrably up to date with emerging digital trends and an interest in online community building.
• Ability to follow agreed processes, templates, and brand guidelines.
• Strong organisational skills to plan and sequence tasks effectively.
• Attention to detail and commitment to delivering work to agreed standards.
• A willingness to learn and adapt to new tools and approaches.
• Collaborative approach, building positive relationships within the team.
• Commitment to Impetus’ mission and values, including equality, diversity, and inclusion. 

Desirable​

• Experience in video / film production and optimising video content for online platforms.
• Experience of commissioning content and working in close collaboration with agencies and/or freelancers.
• Experience / knowledge of website management and CMS, email marketing platforms, project management software and digital ad platforms.
• An interest in the education and / or youth employment policy landscape.
• An interest in the UK youth and / or charity sectors. ​

​

​About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.​

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:  ​

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school  

• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths 

• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment  ​

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.​

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life. ​

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.​

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.​

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.​

Our Values​

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.​

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.​

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.​

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.​

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

​

​Our employee benefits ​

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

​

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.​

You will need to:​

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form)
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.​

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.​

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.​

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.​

The deadline for applications is Sunday 8th February 2026, 11:59pm.​

Interviews:​

1st Interviews will take place on Thursday 19th February 2026.​

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 23rd February 2026.​

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

​

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

Help protect the green spaces that matter to every community — forever

Parks, playgrounds, sports fields and green spaces are essential to our physical and mental wellbeing, to thriving communities, and to a healthier planet. Yet too many of these spaces are under threat.

Fields in Trust exists to change that. For over 100 years, we have worked to legally protect the UK’s green spaces so they can never be lost to development. Following our centenary year and the launch of a bold new five-year strategy, we are now focused on growing our impact, strengthening our organisation, and securing our long-term future.

The opportunity

We are seeking a values-driven Director of Finance and Resources to join our Senior Leadership Team at a pivotal moment for the charity.

This part-time role is about far more than numbers. It is an opportunity to use your financial leadership to safeguard green spaces for generations to come — ensuring Fields in Trust has the resilience, systems and governance needed to deliver lasting impact.

You will play a central role in shaping our financial strategy as we diversify income, develop new commercial opportunities, and continue to evolve as an organisation. Alongside finance, you will also provide strategic oversight of our resources, including IT, HR, facilities and risk.

What you’ll do

• Shape and lead a long-term financial strategy that supports our mission and ambitions
• Provide clear, insightful financial analysis and forecasting to inform strategic decisions
• Work closely with trustees and the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee to ensure strong governance, transparency and accountability
• Strengthen and develop the finance function (currently outsourced), embedding robust systems, controls and reporting
• Support the growth of new income streams through financial modelling and commercial insight
• Oversee budgeting, statutory accounts, audit and compliance
• Ensure our IT systems, data and digital infrastructure are secure, effective and fit for the future
• Provide strategic oversight of HR processes, payroll, pensions, facilities, health and safety and business continuity
• Be a key part of the SLT and play a critical role in shaping wider strategy and direction
• Provide clear communication and in-depth support as the key interface between finance and the rest of the organisation

Who we’re looking for

You will be an experienced senior finance leader who combines strong technical expertise with a deep sense of purpose. You might come from the charity, public or private sector, but you will share our commitment to protecting green spaces and public benefit.

You will bring:

• Strategic financial leadership experience at senior level
• A strong understanding of governance, risk and working with boards or trustees
• Experience supporting organisations through change or growth
• A collaborative, inclusive and pragmatic leadership style
• The ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery in a part-time role

Most importantly, you will be motivated by our mission and excited by the opportunity to make a lasting difference.

Recruitment timeline

Application deadline: Sunday 8th February, midnight

Shortlisting:w/c 16th February

First stage interviews: w/c 23rd February

Second stage interviews: w/c 2nd March

How to apply

To apply, please send your CV and a supporting statement (no more than two pages) to via the link.

If you’d like an informal conversation about the role, please contact our exclusive partner, Bryony Thomas via the Allen Lane agency website.
 

Our mission is to foster community-led green space management through collaboration, advocacy, and education.  We believe that green open spaces can be better sustained by empowering communities and our existing network numbers 150 plus members throughout Birmingham. As our Operations Director, you will direct and control the ongoing operations of Birmingham Open Spaces Forum (BOSF), to achieve the strategic and business performance objectives required by the Trustees.