Director of development jobs

The Difference is an education charity, founded to change the story on lost learning. Our vision is to see lost learning falling nationally by 2030 and for schools to be better equipped to support all children, particularly those most vulnerable.

We are a small, growing charity delivering many school leadership programmes, with a growing research and policy arm. We have had excellent early impact but there is work ahead to capture this, share learning with schools and policy-makers, and campaign to lower exclusions across England.

The Role
This is an exciting time to join The Difference as we increase our impact, reach more schools, and develop our influencing strategy. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs you will: 
 

Design and execute an impactful influencing plan 

• Design an influencing plan - Identify via horizon scanning opportunities to influence national policy using open policy windows, or by nudging/creating new ones. 

• Execute an influencing plan - Utilise own assets and assets across the organisation, including the Director team, to deliver against the influencing plan.

• Relationship building - Build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders who hold power. This will include policy makers in national governments, local government officials, politicians, other third sector organisations and think tanks. 

• Leadership - Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational and own brand.

Build policy capacity and credibility across the organisation

• Policy positions and solutions- Use the concepts, work and experience of The Difference’s programmes to develop new, and refine existing, national policy positions to shift incentives. 

• Thought leadership - Be the organisation’s education policy and political expert. 

• Generating income - Use own and team’s expertise and credibility to generate income via speaking engagements and consultancy to support the organisation’s financial sustainability. 

Person Specification

Essential – We are looking for someone with the following knowledge, experience and skills, though you may be stronger in some areas than others:
 

• Deep expertise in education policy, particularly on the topic of lost learning and the various policy and political debates, including areas of controversy, surrounding this policy topic. 

• Strategic thinker with a proven track record in identifying policy windows and designing activities that lead to meaningful national policy change. 

• Excellent relationship builder, who brings with them their own network of influential stakeholders and has a plan for building new relationships. Adept at navigating tricky situations and explaining complex, sometimes difficult, messages.

• Expert convener with a strong knowledge of the education sector, including which schools, trusts and local authorities are influential and experience in bringing a variety of perspectives together to generate consensus. 

• Persuasive and clear writing style for publication, including reports, press, blogs and ghost writing for members of the senior leadership team, often based on consensus positions, and designed to communicate key messages for impact. 

• Confidence and credibility in communicating nuanced messages in a contentious landscape, in writing, verbally and in public (e.g. on panels), to raise the profile of The Difference. 

• Strong project manager who can design systems and processes to keep self, team and other stakeholders on task and on time. Experience of designing programmes of work and monitoring their effectiveness. Flexible project management style that can adapt to a changing environment. Confidence in managing a variety of stakeholders and supporting them to deliver on time. 

Desired – You are more likely to be successful in your application if you have one or more of the following: 

• Familiarity with The Difference’s programmatic work, theory and practice. 

• Lived experience or insight into the school experiences of marginalised young people (e.g. those with experience of the care system, mental ill health, special educational needs, exclusion, and racism).

We know that some people, especially those from marginalised backgrounds, may hesitate to apply unless they meet every listed requirement. If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution, we warmly encourage you to apply. 

We actively welcome applications from people whose backgrounds are under-represented in the charity sector, including but not limited to: people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people with experience in the case system, non-graduates and first-in-family graduates.

We are an intergovernmental organisation working with Civil Society across a global reach of 51 member countries. Our work advances the interests of Commonwealth Civil Society in areas of equality, participation, and good governance.

The Foundation is guided by a Board of Governors, representing Commonwealth Governments, High Commissioners and Civil Society Leaders. The Board ensures our work reflects the values and aspirations of the Commonwealth.

As our Senior HR Officer, reporting to the Deputy Director-General, you will lead on key HR functions including recruitment, policy development, and HR systems during an exciting transformation as we prepare for our Strategy 2026–2031. This role is central to our commitment to investing in our people and cultivating a vibrant, inclusive organisational culture.

What you will focus on: 

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all HR related queries, ensuring timely, accurate, and solutions-focused responses.

• Lead recruitment and onboarding for all UK-based roles and internships, actively championing the Foundation’s values of equality, diversity, and inclusion.

• Review, enhance, and develop HR policies to ensure alignment with UK employment legislation and best practice standards.

• Oversee and support the full performance management cycle, guiding managers and staff.

• Drive the implementation of innovative HR systems and learning initiatives to improve efficiency and support organisational development. 

What we are looking for: 

• CIPD Level 5 (or equivalent) and a minimum of 2+ years’ HR experience 

• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices 

• Excellent communication and organisational skills 

• Proficiency in HR systems and Microsoft Office 

What We Offer: 

• Salary: £39,800 to £44,000  

• Generous annual leave (almost seven weeks excluding public holidays) 

• 15% of salary payable tax-free at stipulated periods in lieu of a formal superannuation scheme 

• Private health scheme including dental cover 

• Flexible working policy (several days in the office per week) 

• A collaborative and inclusive work environment at Marlborough House, Pall Mall, London 

The Process 

Applicants must declare their right to work in the UK at the time of submission. Any application that fails to do so is unable to be processed.

Applications should include: 

• A comprehensive CV 

• A motivation letter addressing the person specification and competencies 

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date.

Please note, first round interviews will now be held online via video link on Tuesday 27 January 2026. 

Second round interviews will take place in person on Wednesday 4 February 2026. 

Closing date for applications: 

5.00pm GMT Monday 19 January 2026

The Role

DHI is an award winning charity looking for an experienced and passionate Service Manager to lead our adult drug and alcohol treatment service in South Gloucestershire.

In this key leadership role, you'll oversee service delivery, manage a high-performing team, and work closely with partners and commissioners to continuously develop the service to support people affected by substance use. You'll ensure services are person-centred, recovery-focused, safe and effective, with significant involvement from peers and service users. You will have oversight and ensure integration with our clinical partner.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience / ability to oversee and lead both clinical and non-clinical staff / services
• Has excellent understanding of harm reduction, recovery and substance use interventions
• Can drive performance and manage risk
• Is confident working with complex client needs
• Brings resilience, flexibility, and a solution-focused mindset

A Driving licence with access to a vehicle and the willingness to use it for work travel is essential.

Desirable: Management qualification, experience in change management or service development.

Our Values

If you share DHI’s values of flexibility, stimulation, self- direction and zest for life, then we encourage you to apply.

What We Offer

· You’ll receive 26 days of paid annual leave, increasing by one additional day for each full year of service after your first year, up to a maximum of 31 days

· Company pension scheme (7% employer contribution to 3% employee)

· Employee Assistance Programme

· Charity Worker Discounts

· Cycle Scheme

· Mileage allowance of 45p per mile for work related travel (excluding to base location)

· Training and development opportunities

· Flexible working options considered

· Hybrid working available

· Signing on bonus payment of £1000

· Pay review after successful completion of a 6-month probation period

Lead with compassion. Inspire through purpose. Shape the future of Hospiscare.

Hospiscare has been at the heart of our community for over 40 years, providing outstanding specialist end-of-life care and support to people and their families across Exeter, Mid and East Devon. As we look to the future, we are seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead our charity with vision, empathy and strategic strength.

The opportunity

This is a pivotal leadership role — guiding a much-loved local charity through a period of challenge but also opportunity. You’ll work closely with a dedicated Board of Trustees and an experienced Leadership Teams to shape and deliver our strategic goals, ensuring Hospiscare remains resilient, sustainable, and true to our founding values of care, compassion, and dignity.

You’ll be the public face and voice of Hospiscare — inspiring confidence among our staff, volunteers, supporters, healthcare partners, and the wider community. Your leadership will ensure we continue to deliver the highest standards of specialist palliative care while innovating to meet the changing needs of our patients and our community.

About you

You are an accomplished and compassionate leader, able to inspire and unite people around a shared purpose. With substantial senior leadership experience — ideally gained in the charity or health and social care sectors — you bring a track record of shaping strategy, managing complex budgets, and achieving sustainable results.

You’ll understand the challenges facing healthcare and charitable organisations and bring creative, collaborative solutions. You are confident working with a Board, comfortable in the public eye, and driven by a genuine commitment to making a difference to people’s lives at the most profound of times.

Key strengths you’ll bring

• Strategic vision and proven experience leading organisational change and growth
• Strong understanding of governance, finance, and regulatory environments
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills — connecting easily and authentically with people from all walks of life
• A leadership style that combines compassion, clarity, and courage
• A deep alignment with Hospiscare’s mission and values

Why join Hospiscare?

At Hospiscare, you’ll find a community of extraordinary people — staff and volunteers dedicated to providing the very best care and support when it matters most. This is more than a leadership role; it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact on a vital local charity and the lives of countless people in Devon.

We are working with Charity Recruitment Consultant, Jackie Dawkins of Shine Charity Recruitment,who is supporting our search.  For further details about Hospiscare, please read the Recruitment Pack 

Key Dates:

• Closing Date – 26th January 2026 at 5pm
• First Interview with Jackie Dawkins (via Zoom) – 2nd/3rd February 2026
• Shortlisted candidates informal meeting with Chair – 23rd February 2026
• Interview and Assessment Day at Hospiscare – 24th February 2026

About The Connection at St Martin’s

We believe that no one should have to sleep rough on London’s streets, and that everyone should get the support they need to find a place to call home. We get to know every person we work with, understanding what they need to recover, helping them build on their strengths, and supporting them to find their own way home. Help us make London a city where no one sleeps rough on our streets.

London’s diversity is its biggest asset and we strive to ensure our workforce reflects London’s diversity at all levels. We welcome applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability.

We particularly encourage applications from candidates with lived experience of homelessness who we believe are an essential asset in our sector.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and welcome the opportunity to consider flexible working arrangements.

About the Role

The Events & Community Fundraising Manager is an integral part of our ambitious and forward-thinking Fundraising & Communications team.

This postholder will deliver The Connection at St Martin’s Events and Community Fundraising activity. They will line manage the Events & Community Fundraising Assistant, with a particular focus on their work on our annual Pilgrimage event. They will work in conjunction with the Director of Fundraising & Communications to develop and implement an action plan for these important functions.  

This role will develop, manage and grow an enthusiastic and motivated team of challenge event participants, pioneer our involvement in the collaborative London Walk event, lead on our emerging Special Events programme, and identify new opportunities and networks for our Community Fundraising remit.

This role requires someone with a strong track record in Events and Community Fundraising, with a solutions-focussed mindset. They will need experience in translating sector best practice into action, and to be excited at the prospect of innovating and pursuing new Events and Community Fundraising opportunities for the organisation.

Salary: £41,599 - £45,097 (scale points 26-30)
Closing Date: Friday 30th January
Interview Date: Tuesday 10th February

Full Time, Maternity cover from March 2026 to January 2027

Our Benefits

· 30 days holiday plus bank holidays

· Generous training budget, plus an annual personal training budget

· Enhanced Sick Pay Policy

· Enhanced family friendly policies

· Day off for moving house

· Hybrid working (depending on role requirements)

· Pension – 5% Employer, 3% Employee

· Cycle to Work Scheme

· Season Ticket Loan

· Employee Assistance Programme

· Reward Gateway (access to discount vouchers and cashback at the UK’s favourite retailers)

We are a London Living Wage employer

Join us in the ambitious ‘Birmingham In Action’ campaign, which commits to raising over £600 million of charitable funding and 1 million volunteer hours, positioning the University of Birmingham as one of the leaders in philanthropy in the UK. To fulfil our exciting campaign ambitions, we are recruiting a Head of Philanthropy – Global, to maximise philanthropic funding and to take our campaign to the next level.

A key member of the Development and Alumni Relations Office’s (DARO) Philanthropy team, you will be responsible for growing major gifts opportunities and building a sustainable pipeline of future donations from global philanthropic markets. You will have experience of delivering against financial targets, along with the ability to translate complex information into a compelling ask in both verbal and written form. As the Head of Philanthropy - Global, you will be responsible for growing our international major gifts programme. In collaboration with the Associate Director of Philanthropy you will develop and implement fundraising strategies to increase major giving in Asia and North America as well as emerging areas of focus. You will manage a personal portfolio of six figure + (GBP) potential supporters and personally raise gifts in excess of £1m p/a. You will manage the international philanthropy team of two individuals and support them to deliver their annual fundraising and supporting targets.

As a senior fundraiser in DARO, you will be innovative, self-motivated, and take ownership of fundraising opportunities. As part of a dynamic team and led by some of the most respected names in higher education fundraising, you will work across the University to generate significant gifts for amazing philanthropic projects and encourage new donors to make long-term, sustainable gifts. You will have an enthusiasm for building relationships, the skill to interact with high-level donors and supporters, and the ability to showcase the game changing work of our academics and clinicians.

We believe there is no such thing as a typical member of staff and that diversity is a source of strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation, and debate. We warmly welcome people from all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is at the heart of who and what we are and how we work.

Here at the Royal British Legion, we are currently embarking on an exciting new phase in line with our recently launched strategy. As part of this transformation, we are seeking a Head of People Business Partnering in a newly created leadership role within our People and Organisational Development directorate.

This role will see you to ensuring the directorate is fully aligned to business priorities, enabling strong leadership, effective workforce planning and a culture that supports delivery of our 2035 strategy. You will provide insight and challenge to business leaders to support with translating strategy into practical people plans, managing change confidently and fostering high performance and inclusion.

Come and be part of the leading Armed Forces charity, making a difference to the lives of those who have served to keep us safe and protect our way of life.

Leading a high performing team of People Business Partners, key responsibilities will include:

- Strategic partnership and leadership support: Act as a senior adviser to the Executive Director, Directors and senior leadership teams, whilst ensuring business partnering is consistent, commercially aware and outcome focused
- Workforce planning and organisational design: Own the methodology and standards for workforce planning and organisational design across RBL, overseeing organisational design activity, ensuring structures are effective, affordable and aligned to strategic goals
- Change and transformation: Partner with leaders to design and deliver people elements of organisational change, collaborating with the Director of People Experience to ensure change is people-led and inclusive
- Culture, inclusion and wellbeing: Work closely with the EDI Manager to embed inclusive practice across leadership, development and decision making
- Performance and capability: Oversee consistent application of performance management frameworks, coaching leaders in managing performance, talent and engagement
- Leadership and team management: Lead, coach and develop the People Business Partnering team, ensuring they work as a cohesive, trusted and influential function
- Cross-directorate collaboration: Work in partnership with Heads of People Operations, Talent, and EDI to ensure seamless delivery across all people services

We are looking for a CIPD qualified People leader. You will bring proven experience leading a senior HR/People or business partnering function in a similar complex, multi site organisation, with a strong understanding of employment law, HR practice and people metrics.

This is a unique opportunity to play a critical role in shaping the future of RBL. You will be instrumental in shaping our People priorities. If you are passionate about leading a high performing and well respected People function, this is the role where your vision and leadership will make a tangible difference.

You will be contracted to our Haig House hub with a minimum expectation of two days per week working in person at the hub and flexibility for working remotely/at home when not on site.

Employee benefits include –

- 28 day’s paid holiday (plus bank holidays) increasing with service, with optional annual leave purchase scheme of up to 5 working days
- Private Healthcare
- Generous pension contributions, with Employer contributions ranging from 6% to 10%
- Range of flexible working options may be available, depending on your role
- Employee Assistance Programme providing confidential counselling, financial and legal advice
- Range of courses delivered by learning specialists to support your development goals and objectives
- Opportunities to volunteer
- Travel loans, Cycle to Work, and more!

For more detailed information about the role, please see our Vacancy Information Pack attached to our direct advert. Our shortlisting is performed on the evidence provided in your application against the Essential and Desirable criteria in the Person Specification.

RBL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation, reflecting the diversity of the armed forces community and of wider society. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal characteristics.

Interview Date(s):  First Stage: 10th and 12th February, in person at our Haig House, London, office
                                Second Stage: Date(s) TBC

We may close this vacancy early if we believe we have enough strong applications to be able to successfully fill the role. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

If you require the job advert or job description in an alternative format, please contact 0808 802 8080.

The Equality Trust is looking for a motivated and organised Senior Digital Engagement Officer who enjoys working in a high trust, high autonomy environment with remote, supportive line management. We offer a dynamic, friendly team and an empowering and flexible working environment. Equality Trust is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion in recruitment. We know that organisations with a diverse team perform better, and we particularly welcome applications from those who identify as from the Global Majority, working class, LGBT+, disabled and older applicants.

The role of the Operations Officer (Licensing and Compliance) is to support the development, coordination and delivery of Licensing and Compliance processes and procedures across the Association.

The Operations Officer (Licensing and Compliance) will support the Senior Licensing and Compliance Manager and other members of the Operations Team to ensure that, through the consistent and proactive use of standards, policies and quality assurance processes, backed up by effective licensing, the intellectual property and good reputation of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is effectively protected.

The role will work closely with Operations Directors, Operations Managers and the Foundation Finance Team to support licensing of Operators.

Key Responsibilities

• Processing, in liaison with relevant Operations Team colleagues, new licence applications from Independent Award Centres (IACs), including due diligence and database management.
• Lead on the management of the IAC Compliance Check schedule and surrounding processes including regular communications with relevant Operations Managers.
• Coordinate the ongoing compliance management process for IACs.
• Provide support to the Senior Licensing & Compliance Manager with processes related to the compliance for National Award Operators (NAOs) and Operating Partners (OPs).
• Support the Senior Licensing and Compliance Manager with issuing of and drafting correspondence in relation to all licence documentation (terminations, licence extensions, agreements and certificates etc).
• Support the Senior Licensing and Compliance Manager to disseminate information regarding licensing and quality assurance processes to Foundation colleagues, and to the wider Association when appropriate.
• Support with ad hoc projects, as required.

GrowTH is a non-denominational Christian charity, which works in partnership with evangelical churches from a variety of backgrounds within the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

GrowTH seeks to share God’s love with its homeless neighbours in word and deed. So, alongside receiving practical care and help, all GrowTH guests have the opportunity to hear the good news of Jesus and to explore the Christian faith, if they wish.

GrowTH, has four main projects that make up the charity’s activities. They are as follows:

• Night Shelter: provides volunteer-run winter shelter in Tower Hamlets from October to April each year. Homeless men and women are referred to GrowTH by local homeless agencies. Once accepted into the shelter, guests receive a warm welcome, a hot evening meal, a safe bed for the night, and breakfast in the morning. The resettlement support there provides every guest in the shelter with one-to-one support from GrowTH’s two Advocate Workers to help them move out of homelessness, with the aim of resettling them into stable accommodation. We accommodate up to 15 Guests in the Shelter each night, and typically shelter around 150 Guests each season.
• Housing: provides medium term (twelve-eighteen month) affordable move-on homes locally for some who have stayed in the shelter, or are referred in from other sources, in order to help them transition towards independence. Each Resident is provided with bespoke support towards their support needs by our Housing team. We currently have 31 residents across 12 flats.
• Day Centre: provides a safe space for guests to meet with the staff team for advocacy and support meetings. There will also be space for shelter guests to relax and ample opportunities for both staff and volunteer-led evangelistic events, as well as prayer ministry.
• Lazarus House: a community house project for male residents. The house provides an opportunity for men seeking a fresh start to confront deep rooted issues impacting their lives, within a safe, loving, disciplined and family environment. This is a key partnership with the local churches in which they provide discipleship for the Residents as well as fellowship, and GrowTH provide the practical support and housing.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Providing day-to-day oversight and support to GrowTH’s various frontline projects

1. Provide oversight of logistics for GrowTH’s projects; ensuring smooth daily operations
2. Oversee the provision of one-to-one support to Residents and Guests
3. Manage referrals into the projects, and oversee move-on options for Residents and Guests
4. Oversee good maintenance of properties and facilities, ensuring compliance with safety checks and other requirements
5. Provide oversight for the development and implementation of new frontline projects

Providing strategic support for GrowTH across its projects, and the wider organisation

1. Oversee and regularly review the viability of GrowTH’s various projects
2. Ensure sufficient policies and procedures are in place for the projects to comply with relevant legislation and guidelines
3. Assist the Director with planning and strategic matters

Providing support to the wider GrowTH team

1. Support and line manage frontline staff in the Day Centre, Shelter, and Housing and Lazarus House projects.

DETAILED RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide oversight of logistics for GrowTH’s projects; ensuring smooth daily operations

• Ensure the smooth running of the Shelter, Housing, Lazarus House and Day Centre operations.
• Oversee staff in making day-to-day decisions with regards to the support and casework given to Residents or Guests.
• Oversee the day-to-day logistics of the projects, and addressing any logistical challenges that arise.
• Resolve complaints and concerns raised by guests, residents, or staff effectively.

Oversee the provision of one-to-one support to Residents and Guests

• Along with other team members, provide support to Residents and Guests around their bespoke support needs – tenancy sustainment, finances, employment, health, and life skills, etc.
• Support frontline staff in the delivery of this support to Residents and Guests; assisting with suggestions or providing clear direction in their casework.
• Assist Residents and Guests in accessing support provided by other organisations or services.
• Oversee the provision of groups, activities, courses, or events to upskill Residents and Guests. 

Manage referrals into the projects, and oversee move-on options for Residents and Guests

• Oversee the referral process, and the individual referrals that come into the Shelter and Housing and Lazarus House. 
• Where required, assess prospective Residents or Guests for their suitability, and be able to clearly explain the individual projects and their criteria.
• Ensure that Residents and Guests are well prepared for their move ons from GrowTH’s projects, and oversee the presentation of move on options to each individual.
• Assisting frontline staff in the securing of onwards accommodation for Residents and Guests, which may include building strong connections with other providers, and researching new options.

Oversee good maintenance of properties and facilities, ensuring compliance with safety checks and other requirements

• Ensure that the decoration, fittings, and furnishings throughout the Housing project, Lazarus House and Day Centre are of good quality, checked regularly, and replaced when required. And that all GrowTH’s projects are clean, welcoming, and functional.
• Liaise with the landlord, contractors, or other relevant parties regarding repair works.
• Ensure that routine fire safety checks are undertaken in all of GrowTH’s properties, and that gas and electric safety certificates are obtained. Ensuring compliance will all relevant health and safety legislation.

Provide oversight for the development and implementation of new frontline projects

• Provide ongoing operational oversight for Lazarus House, supporting staff and ensuring high quality care and support for the Residents.
• Identify and assess opportunities for future projects that will enhance GrowTH’s mission, working with the Director to develop any new initiatives, should opportunities arise.
• Lead the setup and successful launch of any new frontline initiatives or projects, in alignment with GrowTH’s vision and values.

Oversee and regularly review the viability of GrowTH’s various projects

• Perform and lead regular reviews of each of GrowTH’s projects, to ensure that they are performing well compared to their pre-agreed targets and KPIs.
• Ensure that rental income is maximised, and apply for grants for specific needs if required.
• Track and report on the expenditure of the various projects.

Ensure sufficient policies and procedures are in place for the projects to comply with relevant legislation and guidelines

• Write and regularly update policies and procedures for the Housing, Shelter, Day Centre, and Lazarus House; in accordance with an changes in legislations, guidelines, or best practice.
• Ensure that staff are aware of the policies, well-trained, and follow these policies effectively.

Assist the Director with planning and strategic matters

• Review the Shelter, Housing, Lazarus House and Day Centre projects to identify areas for improvement.
• Meet with Director, Management team, and Trustees to plan the future of the projects.
• Meet with other organisations to learn and implement best practices.
• Assist the Director in organising and executing larger events and initiatives for the charity.

Support and line manage frontline staff in the Day Centre, Shelter, and Housing projects

• Provide line management to the frontline staff (currently Housing Workers, Advocate Workers, and Shelter Coordinator); including regular supervision, and appraisals.
• Supporting frontline staff in their roles; ensuring they have the training and resources that are required.
• Help to foster a supportive and collaborative team culture.

This is an exciting opportunity to get experience with a large and growing charity with an engaged and fun team. You will be a key part of our mission to ​find a cure for all types of brain tumours.​

​Our Systems Manager is being seconded to an internal project for the next 6-9 months and so we are seeking an experienced IT professional to join our team for an interim basis for six months with the possibility of a three month extension.​​​​

In this role you will you lead a team of three people in supporting our staff team of 70 by providing reliable, effective and efficient IT systems and equipment. This include ​the monitoring and maintenance of our IT software and, with external support, our IT hardware. ​​

You will line manage the Database Assistant ​and Data Processing Assistant.

​

​If you are excited to learn more about this position, please take a read through our recruitment pack provided in the advert.

​

If you have the skills and ambition that we are looking for we welcome your application. ​ We are really looking forward to welcoming a new member to our team!​​​

We are asking for a CV as the first step but applicants may be asked to provide a targeted covering letter as part of the selection process. ​

Interviews will be conducted during the application window as appropriate, and will consist of a first interview via MS Teams, progressing, if successful to a face to face second interview, held at our offices in Milton Keynes.​

​

We reserve the right to close the application window early and advise candidates to apply in good time to avoid disappointment.​

We are looking for people who share our passion for finding a cure for brain tumours and who have the skills and experience to make a difference. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, cultures, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and ages. We believe that diversity enriches our organisation and helps us achieve our mission. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can be themselves and contribute to our vision.

The post holder will be expected to demonstrate full commitment to the vision and values of Willowbrook Hospice. The role will be crucial in ensuring we are able to ‘Deliver the best care, delivered with compassion for our community’.

The Head of Finance’s key priorities, in close collaboration with the Executive Leadership Team, are to lead and support the strategic and annual financial planning processes, and to prepare and analyse accurate and timely financial information for the Board of Trustees and the Directors of the Trading Company, ensuring compliance with all external financial reporting requirements.

Main Duties:

1. To provide an effective and accurate financial management and accountancy service to the Executive Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company.

2.   Prepare annual budgets and monitor performance on a monthly basis against plan by the preparation and issue of monthly budget statements.  Make recommendations on costing assumptions to be included within all budgets. For example, inflation rates.

3. Support the strategic direction of the business by leading on the preparation of 5 year financial forecasts to support strategic planning and to ensure the long term financial viability of the business. 

4.   Prepare and maintain financial accounts in a timely fashion and ensure they are consistent with external financial reporting standards and requirements.

5.  Provide monthly financial information to the Executive Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company.

6. Prepare cash flow reports on a regular/quarterly basis and monitor cash requirements and advise the Board of Trustees, Directors of the Trading Company and Executive Leadership Team on the liquidity position of the business.

7.  Provide advice on all financial matters, including issues arising in connection with charity legislation, to ensure that the business meets its legal financial obligations and complies will all external regulatory requirements.

 8. Liaise with H.M. Revenue and Customs and VAT consultants regarding records and payments and ensure compliance with all regulations.   

9. Ensure the provision of a monthly payroll service and ensure delivery of an accurate, reliable and quality payroll service to all staff.

10. To liaise with all regulatory external bodies in connection with any financial or charity matters, i.e. auditors, accountants, bank, solicitors, Charity Commission, Companies House, insurance company, pension advisors and others.

11. Annual completion of the Charity Commission self-assessment, ensuring that we comply with best practice. 

12. Attend the meetings of the local networking groups as required.

13. Review and monitor performance of the business’s investments and provide up to date reports to the Board of Trustees, enabling them to make appropriate investment decisions.

14. As part of financial reporting, complete regular analysis of all income and expenditure, supporting budget holders as required to identify areas where cost savings and efficiencies can be made.

15. Support in the preparation of business cases as necessary across the business.

16. Support in the preparation of benchmarking information to assist in the determination of opportunities to improve the organisation’s financial position.

17. Support the business’s efforts to maximise income from all sources providing financial information and attending committees and other forums as required to assist in this.

18. Develop and maintain an asset register of all property across the business. Ensure capital accounting policies are agreed annually by the Finance Committee. 

19. Ensure appropriate financial procedures, financial governance and policies are in place across the business and ensure they are regularly reviewed and appropriate. 

 20. Ensure good systems of financial control and checks are in place for all assets. 

21.To manage and support staff in the Finance Department, ensuring they have the right knowledge and skills to carry out their duties effectively.

22. Ensure that all members of the leadership team (ELT and SLT) and the board have the necessary knowledge and support regarding financial matters including the provision of training if necessary.

23. Attend committees and key meetings  to present relevant financial information at the request of the Executive Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company.

 Performance Standards:

1. Annual income and expenditure budgets are approved annually and monitored monthly.

2. Management Accounts are aimed to be completed within 10 working days of month end and available for the Executive Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company.

3. Regulatory requirements are met as and when they fall due.

4. The provision of an accurate and reliable set of annual financial statements.

5. Meet with statutory and external organisations in a timely and professional manner.

6. Quarterly VAT returns, Annual Corporation Tax returns and other statutory returns are submitted in a timely manner.

7. With regard to financial records and reporting, to comply with and meet the standards of the Care Quality Commission.

8. Completion of all Charity Commission regulatory requirements.

9. Ensure that we have robust financial systems in place for all assets and liabilities incorporating monthly reviews of creditors and debtors.

10.  Ensure financial information requirements of the Executive Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company are met in a timely manner. 

11. Ensure that the business has financial systems and processes in place that will comply with regulatory requirements for healthcare services. 

12. Be an active member of the Senior Leadership Team participating in all relevant meetings contributing where possible, to the achievement of business objectives.

13. To take rotational responsibility as Out of Hours Duty Manager, if required.

14. Provide advice, support and information to the Executive Leadership Team; Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company on financial matters enabling the business to meet its objectives.

General Duties:

1. To liaise with Head of Human Resources to advise, where necessary, on all salary and pension matters, keeping up to date with changing legislation.

2. To communicate with the banks, HMRC, Department of Work and Pensions and all other relevant external bodies regarding all pension, tax and National Insurance issues.

3. To liaise with all Senior Leadership team colleagues to ensure payroll data is accurate and kept up to date.

4. To liaise with the Head of Fundraising in matters relating to fundraising income and expenditure and the fundraising and lottery database, ensuring that any information is an accurate reflection of income and expenditure.

5. To liaise with the Head of Retail in matters relating to the trading company’s income and expenditure, ensuring that all information provided is accurate.

6. To verify that insurance cover is appropriate and adequate for the various business functions and to ensure that it is kept up to date.

7. To ensure that there is compliance across the business with financial statutory regulations and internal financial policies.

8. Ensure that there is a robust information governance regime across all financial matters across the business.

9. To undertake and manage the annual appraisal process for the Finance Team, identifying any training and development needs.

10.  Ensure that all members of the Finance Team attend mandatory and statutory training as required and that evaluations are undertaken to monitor effectiveness.

11. The post holder will adhere to all relevant legislation and policies of the business.

12.  Any other reasonable duties as directed by the Executive Leadership Team, the Boarof Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company.

About Us

Freeways and Freeways Trust are linked local charities that supports adults with learning disabilities.

Freeways is a highly regarded provider offering a range of social care support services and Freeways Trust owns and manages a portfolio of properties which support the work of Freeways. Both charities are passionate about helping people to become as independent as possible by supporting them to make choices, learn new skills, and make links with their local community.

We provide support for up to 115 people across North Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire in accommodation based services and also individuals in their own homes and a small number of respite placements in South Gloucestershire.

We also run other types of services including community day services, building based day services, hydrotherapy and warm water sessions in our own hydrotherapy pool, support to become self-employed or look for employment, and support living.

The Role

Freeways is looking to recruit a Head of Finance who will   manage a small finance team.

This role is responsible for preparing the monthly management accounts and associated report for both charities: providing high quality financial insight, analysis and advice to support informed decision making.

The Head of Finance is also responsible for ensuring the efficiency, accuracy and compliance of the day-to-day financial activities (including accounts payable, accounts receivable and cashbooks) for both Freeways and Freeways Trust.

This includes responsibility for the integrity and ongoing development of the accounting and payroll systems, ensuring transactions are processed accurately and in a timely manner to enable the production of accurate financial information for the management of both charities. 

You will also deputise and work closely with the Finance Director playing a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of both Freeways and Freeways Trust, responsible for advising on financial strategies that align with the charities’ objectives.

About you

To succeed in this role you will:

• Be a qualified accountant with substantial financial and management accounting experience.
• Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and demonstrable experience of leading and engaging with finance and other corporate functions to develop a mature and rounded service.
•  Have an excellent understanding of financial and management accounting processes, financial reporting and audit planning as well as being adept at managing both your own and your team’s priorities.
• Be a strong leader able to communicate well with your peers and teams members and have resilience to adapt quickly to changing priorities and demands from internal and external stakeholders.
• Enjoy using technology to make processes simpler and more efficient.

In return for your hard work and dedication you will enjoy a wide variety of benefits including:

• 35 days (pro-rata) annual leave entitlement (including public holidays)
• Company sick pay
• Company pension scheme
• Life assurance cover of twice your annual salary (subject to rules of the scheme)
• Free parking on site
• Family-friendly/work-life balance policies
• Free DBS check every 3 years
• Occupational health provision
• Employee Assistance Programme – 24-hour access to a counselling and legal helpline

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS and Adult Barred List check.

Job Description

Purpose of the role

Our PR & Media Manager is crucial to guiding our public story and scale up our media reach as we enter the final stages of our campaign to end bear bile farming in Vietnam and develop the profile of our founder and CEO Jill Robinson MBE. As the internal lead for global PR and media, you will cultivate strong relationships with colleagues in our Programmes and Fundraising teams to amplify their work through celebrity support, thought-leadership and media engagement.

Your main areas of responsibility include press office management (managing the media inbox, journalist and influencer liaison, writing press releases, and media monitoring , working with our international network of external PR specialists to prepare and deliver PR & Media plans for each of our key fundraising markets (UK, US & Aus.), preparing pitches, media releases and content for media outreach and building a library of case studies and fact files to demonstrate our impact. 

Working closely with our Celebrity Manager, your other key area of responsibility is developing and implementing creative media opportunities for our celebrity supporters to raise Animals Asia’s profile through earned, owned and shared digital platforms, print and broadcast media. You will possess the knowledge, skills, and creativity to help us raise awareness of Animals Asia and what we stand for, helping us grow our supporter base and meet our brand goals. You will be managed by our Global Director of Strategic Communication. 

Key duties:

Strategy and planning

• Development of creative campaigns that deliver high quality coverage to reach target audiences in line with Animals Asia’s organisational and communications objectives including fundraising, brand awareness, policy influencing and behaviour change.
• Utilise a range of appropriate tactics such as celebrity and influencer support, CEO profile building and subject matter expert thought leadership.

PR delivery

• Participate in the development and implementation of our thought leadership program, supporting our internal subject matter experts to publish on Linked In, contribute to earned media and participate in speaking opportunities.
• Preparing, publishing, moderating and reporting on social media content for PR and media purposes, including the identification and targeting of key influencers to support our campaigns share our content.
• Support and promote global campaigns, appeals and events with PR, including the development of press materials and media targeting and liaison.
• Participate in a program of activity to develop and build the profile of our CEO, Jill Robinson, as a key ambassador for Animals Asia.

Press office management

• Day to day running of the press office, including responding to media enquiries, drafting media releases, undertaking proactive pitch development, outreach to journalists and influencers, maintaining our database of media contacts and other general press office management.
• Leading on the creation and maintenance of our external events and key dates calendar to identify opportunities and clashes for PR.
• Keeping abreast of external events and news stories for reactive response and future planning.
• Identifying, monitoring and responding to any reputational and other reactive issues, including anything related to our celebrity ambassadors, in a timely and appropriate manner.
• Coordinate the monitoring, reporting and evaluation of all PR and media related activities, to assess and learn from the success of activities to feed into future plans as well as build the positive profile of the PR function across the organisation.
• Management of PR suppliers, such as Meltwater and MuckRack, to ensure a smooth and well-functioning press office with timely reporting and access to information.
• Maintaining the news and media sections of our website and media packs.

Content production and asset coordination

• Lead on the internal coordination of information, asset gathering and content production for proactive and reactive media activity, delivering outputs in an engaging, accessible and media appealing way, including with the development and maintenance of a case study and fact file library and the production of media-ready content, including with video, images, audio and copy.
• Develop and craft key messages that get cut through, in support of our campaigns.
• Draft high quality materials such as press releases, opeds, blogs, briefings, pitches and bios across all PR, including in close collaboration with our internal subject matter experts to develop our reputation and thought leadership in animal welfare.

Relationship management

• Day to day management of PR suppliers and partners, including our international network of external PR specialists to deliver PR campaigns.
• Internal liaison with colleagues throughout Animals Asia to gather information, check facts and develop content and pitches for earned media.
• Build relationships with key journalists, celebrities and social media influencers.

General

• Proactive attendance at meetings.
• Proactive in keeping up to date with developments in PR & Media.
• Represent Animals Asia at internal and external functions and events as required.

Person Specification:

• Minimum of three years’ experience of working in a busy press office or PR agency, including drafting key messages, press releases and responding to media enquiries.
• Strong news sense, knowledge of biodiversity and animal welfare is a plus.
• Strong experience of using a range of proactive and creative PR tactics to generate high quality and on message PR coverage, such as with celebrities, individual profile building, fundraising and policy influencing campaigns.
• Excellent experience and understanding of different types of PR opportunity and outlet and how to target them, such as broadcast, opinion, news, features and letters.
• Experience of working with celebrities, their managers and agents.
• Experience in measuring and reporting on press coverage, including using media monitoring software to track media engagement, journalists and coverage.
• Excellent understanding of reputation management and associated risks.
• Experience in using media monitoring software to track media engagement, journalists and coverage.
• Extensive experience of writing and publishing to social media.
• Competent video editing skills.
• Excellent written English. including writing for journalists and a public audience.
• Demonstrable experience of prioritising and delivering against multiple deadlines in a time pressured environment.
• Confident in building relationships with journalists, colleagues and stakeholders and being a credible representative for the charity and the cause.
• Proven ability to work well under pressure.
• Willingness and ability to work early/late flexible hours (due to the global nature of the role) and occasionally on weekends.
• Commitment to the objectives and values of the organisation.
• Advanced working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Google Suite products.

Communication / interpersonal skills:

• Strong people skills with a high level of organisational awareness and demonstrated ability to liaise with a broad and diverse range of stakeholders.
• Proactive, with a “can-do” attitude. Results-driven to improve performance.
• Ability to display initiative, common sense and diplomacy.
• Commitment to professionalism, discretion and confidentiality.
• Well-presented, articulate and polite.

Conditions and Benefits:

Place of work:

Home-based (Global).

Working hours:

Full-time. Standard hours are 37.5 hours per week from 9am to 5pm, with good flexibility.

You will be required to work such additional hours as are necessary to fulfill your role which may include evenings and weekends. You will be expected to manage your hours, responsibilities and workload accordingly.

Reports to:

Global Director of Strategic Communication.

Manages:
N/A.

Budget responsibility:
N/A.

Probation: 6 months.

Annual leave:

Commensurate with the country of residence. 

The holiday year runs from January 1st to December 31st.

Other benefits:

Standard Animals Asia benefits plus training will be provided as required with opportunities for growth and development.

How to apply:

Please send your CV and cover letter outlining how you meet the person specification and why you should be considered for this role to us.

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Find out more, please visit our website.

Animals Asia values candidates with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We welcome applicants of every ethnicity, age, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, socioeconomic status, disability, or veteran status. We are committed to building an organization that creates an inclusive environment for all. 

Using AI During Interviews:

Animals Asia is committed to ensuring a fair and authentic interview process. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, including but not limited to real-time transcription, automated response generation or assistance in formulating interview answers, is strictly prohibited during any stage of the interview process.

We will take a candidate's agreement to participate in an interview with us as confirmation that they will not use AI tools in any form during the conversation. If it is discovered or reasonably suspected that AI has been used, the interview will be terminated immediately, and the candidate will no longer be considered for the role.

We appreciate your understanding and adherence to this policy, which is in place to maintain the integrity, professionalism and reliability of our recruitment procedures. 

Application Deadline on 26th January 2026