Director of engagement and communications jobs

Summary

Introduction

Working within the Central Secretariat, the Safeguarding Structures Programme Director will lead a programme team to implement the new independent structures for the Church of England's safeguarding function.

About the Department

The Central Secretariat provides support to many of the governance bodies of the Church of England, including the General Synod, House of Bishops, Archbishops' Council and others. It also provides policy analysis and support on internal matters relating to the structure and governance of the Church of England.

What you'll be doing

The purpose of this role is to deliver the General Synod's motion of February 2025 to design, develop and deliver independent scrutiny of Church safeguarding and such operations as the Synod decides. It needs to do so in a way that brings stakeholders - victims and survivors, safeguarding staff across the Church, trustees and others - along with them, with a focus on delivering a system of safeguarding that commands greater confidence. And it needs to do so working through an executive chair and lead bishop.

You will lead a programme team that is in the process of being formed, and you'll report to the Director of the Central Secretariat, whilst also working through an Executive Chair (currently being recruited), the lead bishop for safeguarding and a Programme Board, and maintaining the confidence of the wider Church of England, including the General Synod, the House of Bishops and others.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the programme team to deliver an ambitious programme of policy development, legislation, restructure and new service development, being accountable for ensuring the programme meets objectives , delivers outcomes and realises benefits
• Support the Executive Chair and lead bishop to deliver the mandate of General Synod (February 2025) regarding the future of Church of England safeguarding - maintaining their confidence and engagement at all times, building a relationship of trust and collaboration.
• Lead the team to deliver the change:
• Design the change - agreeing the new models for scrutiny/complaints and operations
• Secure buy-in to the change - including from governance bodies, the General Synod, and other stakeholders
• Execute the change through a mixture of legislative, contractual and other arrangements; and
• Embed the change - through the communications, engagement, planning etc that will enable the programme to deliver the benefits
• Maintain excellent programme governance - both ensuring the programme is well-run, with appropriate internal governance (plans, resource management, risk management) and reports effectively to the Programme Board, and to governance bodies
• Develop excellent engagement with safeguarding staff and leaders across the Church
• Ensure that the proposals are designed from the user perspective - with a particular focus on victims, survivors and parish safeguarding officers
• Lead, support, encourage and manage, the programme team of approximately 6-8 people
• Develop key messaging and strategic engagement , overseeing internal and external engagement
• Equip and enable the lead bishop and Executive Chair to be effective senior sponsors and externally facing change champions, ensuring that they are fully briefed on all developments and properly supported prepared for their meetings.

About You

Along with a recognised Programme Management accreditation (e.g. APM, PMI, PRINCE2 or equivalent), you will also need to demonstrate:

• The ability to create the vision and a sense of the destination, and also to engage in the precise details of what needs to happen to deliver it;
• A track record of engaging with people who are impacted by substantial change;
• Ability and experience of working collaboratively with a programme team and wider stakeholders to achieve success
• Experience of working with senior stakeholders to deliver, and capacity to work with an Executive Chair and lead bishop or similar.

• A salary of 82,157 per annum, plus age-related pension contributions between 8-15% of salary. We will also match any salary-sacrifice pension contributions you make up to an additional 3% of your salary.

• 30 days annual leave plus eight bank holidays three additional days (pro-rated if working part-time).
• We welcome all flexible working arrangement requests. This is looked at in a case-by-case scenario and if this fits within the department's needs. We try to be as flexible as we can in your work pattern to support you with other commitments, and to give a good work-life balance.
• We offer many services and initiatives under our Family Friendly Programme, some of these include enhanced Maternity Leave initiative, Adoption Leave, Paternity Leave, & Shared Parental Leave. Structured induction programme and access to a range of development opportunities including apprenticeships.
• Automatic enrolment and access to Medicash (one of the UK's leading health cash plan providers), providing you with many services including reimbursements of routine dental treatment, optical, specialist consultations, and therapy treatments. Unlimited access to virtual GP & Private prescription service and health & Stress related helplines.
• Access to Occupational Health, and an Employee Assistance Programme 
• Access to the Department of Education Restaurant and Westminster Abbey with a plus-one guest.
• Apply for eligibility for an Eyecare voucher.
• Opportunity to join the Civil Service Sports & Social Club, and get involved in a range of staff networks, groups and societies.

The National Church Institutions comprises a wide variety of teams, professions and functions that support the mission and ministries of the Church of England in its vision to be a church, centred on Jesus Christ, for the whole nation - a church that is simpler, humbler, bolder.

• Strive for Excellence
• Show Compassion
• Respect others
• Collaborate
• Act with Integrity

Permanent, full-time (five days per week)

Hybrid – will be expected to be based from one of our regional offices in London, Coventry, Norwich, Leeds or Cardiff.  There will be home working flexibility but also an expectation to travel when required.

Ref: DJS-251

Closing Date: Monday 19th May 2025 at 11pm 

Are you an influential, collaborative and inspiring leader with a proven track record of managing and developing large, diverse, and cross-functional teams with a focus on fostering collaboration, performance, and engagement?  Do you have extensive project management experience, including successful coordination of people, financial, and material resources to achieve complex objectives?

If so, join St Giles as Director of Justice Services, where you will oversee the day-to-day operations of all services being delivered under our Justice pillar, plus provide strategic leadership on all aspects of our work in the justice sector and senior-level expertise to significantly influence and impact the charity’s overall direction and achievement of our strategic objectives.

About St Giles Trust

An ambitious, well-established charity that helps people facing adversity to find jobs, homes and the right support they need.  Central to our ethos is our belief that people with first-hand experience of successfully overcoming issues such as an offending background, homelessness, addictions and gang involvement, hold the key to positive change in others.

About this key role

Working collaboratively with the other Service Delivery Directors, you will be responsible for defining and shaping departmental policies and systems to ensure alignment with long-term strategic goals and setting standards that drive operational excellence. We will count on you to develop annual work plans to align service delivery with KPIs, funding agreements, and organisational priorities and manage pillar-wide budgets, ensuring financial efficiency and sustainability.

You will provide inspiring leadership and development to cross-functional teams, fostering a high-performance culture and ensure staff feel supported, empowered, and engaged with organisational values.  We will also expect you to develop influential networks to strengthen partnerships, increase funding, and enhance St Giles' reputation profile and to lead best-practice safeguarding approaches that prioritise client and staff well-being.

What we are looking for

• A qualification (minimum accreditation Level 5) of strategic leadership, project management, or similar

• Strong knowledge of the ongoing issues faced by those who have been, or are currently serving, either a custodial or community sentence

• Experience working in a high-pressure, fast-paced work environment 

• An understanding of how employing staff with lived experience can provide additional value and impact to services delivered to their peers.

• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation 

• Sound understanding of different funding requirements 

• Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation and communication skills, written and verbal. 

Please see the full appointment brief for a comprehensive overview of St Giles charity and the Director of Justice Services role available on our website (via the apply button). 

Please note: this role requires that successful candidates must undergo an Enhanced Adult Workforce DBS check, on the basis that the post involves contact with vulnerable participants and colleagues.

In return, you can expect a competitive salary, generous leave allowance, staff pension, flexible working, a mentoring programme, an advice and counselling service, clinical therapist sessions, life insurance (4 x annual salary), duvet days, season ticket loan, employee perks programme, eye care voucher and much more.

We are an equity and inclusion confident employer. We welcome all applications, and we particularly encourage applications from people of the global majority (black, brown, multi- heritage) and those who identify as disabled, neuroexpansive, neurodiverse, with any protected characteristics and/or social barriers or challenges. We value the empowering and informative impact that all lived experiences and diversity of thought can offer the organisation.

St Giles will guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria set out in the Job Description for the vacancy.

To apply 

Please see the full appointment brief for a comprehensive overview of St Giles charity and the Director of Justice Services role available on our website (via the apply button). 

Closing Date: Monday 19th May 2025 at 11pm 

Are you our first Deputy Director?

• Are you passionate about the voices of people with lived experience in campaigns and communications around the asylum and immigration system?
• Are you a diplomat and leader, able to influence and collaborate with a network and partners?
• Do you enjoy being part of a small, dynamic team working with movement leaders, turning your hand to different challenges?
• Can you further build a campaign coalition to equip it to win deep change in the way the UK treats refugees?

About us

The Asylum Reform Initiative (ARI) is an alliance of nine leading national organisations collaborating to secure deep change towards a fair, compassionate and well-managed UK approach to refugees. Central to its strategy has been incubating, launching and backing the broader, public-facing Together With Refugees campaign coalition, now with over 600 national and local member groups from across the refugee sector and beyond. The ARI team provides a dynamic hub that supports Together With Refugees, coordinating the development and delivery of the coalition’s campaign strategy.

About the role

This is a new role. Working closely with the rest of the ARI team, One Strong Voice, and the newly formed Together With Refugees Steering Group, it will play a key part in shaping and delivering the ambitious next phase of the Together With Refugees strategy. The Deputy Director will lead on movement building, strengthening the coalition, and developing the reach, activation levels and effectiveness of the coalition’s grassroots campaign organising to secure changes in policy and practice. At the heart of this is the engagement and leadership of activists with lived experience as refugees, and of member groups that are led by and for refugees – so advancing the goal of a transition to leadership by people with lived experience across the coalition. Key to this work will be building the capacity, effectiveness and impact of the One Strong Voice network to support lived experience campaigners, organisations and leaders at all levels. The Deputy Director will also contribute to wider leadership of the team’s work including fundraising, support for – and accountability to – coalition leadership structures, and effective delivery of the team’s work programme.

About you

The Deputy Director will be a natural collaborator and relationship builder, able to work with diplomacy to drive forward our ambitious strategic aims. You will need ambition, energy and an ability to work at both strategic and more detailed levels. This could be the right opportunity for a range of potential candidates. You could be someone who has led and managed in other issues-based settings, in the asylum and refugee sector, or more broadly. Whatever your background, if you think you have the skills and experience to contribute to our team and take Together With Refugees forward then we’d like to hear from you.

Our commitment to and our strategic aims means that, we warmly invite and encourage applications from people with lived experience of the asylum system, or of forced migration more generally.

How to apply

First, download the candidate information pack; you will also need the application form and the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form (these are all downloads under "Application resources" below). Send the two completed forms with your CV to the email address in the pack.

Hours: Full-time

Remuneration: Up to £72,000 (dependent on experience)

Duration: Permanent

Location: Manchester, UK (hybrid working available) with international deployment.

This position is based in the UK; applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK and provide relevant documentation upon request.

Do you have the strategic vision and leadership skills to drive fundraising growth and power humanitarian impact?

UK-Med is a frontline medical aid charity, born of the NHS and committed for over 30 years to ensuring that everyone can access the healthcare they need when crises or disasters strike.

We are seeking a Director of Fundraising to lead the strategic and operational development of our fundraising function, accelerating voluntary income growth to support the organisation’s development and expansion.

As a key member of our leadership team, you will drive a dynamic, effective fundraising programme, securing major gifts and partnerships, delivering impactful campaigns, and building strong supporter engagement. You will play a central role in ensuring our fundraising activity meets the highest standards of quality, compliance, and donor care, while contributing to the success of our overall organisational strategy.

If you are an experienced fundraising leader with a passion for humanitarian work and a proven track record of delivering significant income growth, we would love to hear from you.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits along with a friendly working environment and the opportunity to make a real difference through an important role in our humanitarian programming.

How to apply

We strongly recommend that you read the Candidate Information Pack - Director of Fundraising - April 2025 before applying for this role.

To apply, please submit a current CV and a supporting letter (2 pages) through our online jobs portal.

Your cover letter must include a detailed explanation of your suitability for this post with specific reference to the criteria in the person specification

Applications must be submitted no later than Thursday 15th May 2025

Applications for work in the UK can only be accepted from people with an existing right to work in the UK.

UK-Med is committed to safeguarding of our personnel and beneficiaries and has a zero-tolerance approach to sexual exploitation and abuse. We conduct thorough vetting before any appointment is confirmed.

UK-Med is committed to the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where employees feel respected and supported to be able to fulfil their potential.

Position: Director of Engagement
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours a week
Contract: Permanent
Location: Office-based in London with flexibility to work remotely
Salary: £73,653 per annum plus excellent benefits
Salary Band: Band 5

About us

We make sure people living with MS are at the centre of everything we do. And it’s this commitment that unites us across the UK.

Our strategy is based on what people affected by MS have told us is important to them. It gives us a clear and determined focus.

Our work is based on the hopes and aspirations of our MS community. Together we campaign at all levels, fund ground-breaking research and provide award winning support and information.

Our people are our greatest asset and the key to our success. We offer a vibrant, progressive working environment where you'll be able to make a difference.

About this job

It is a very exciting time to join the MS Society as Director of Engagement a brand-new role in the organisation. We are implementing an ambitious cross-organisational transformation programme.  And we have just started a new 2025-29 strategy. Engagement is at the heart of both.

Engagement is everything. We define engagement as any interaction anyone has with the MS Society. We need to grow the audience we engage with. And deepen our audience relationships through engagement.  Growing and deepening engagement with all our audiences will enable us to deliver transformational impact for the MS Community. And contribute to our ultimate vision of a world free from MS.

We are looking for someone to provide strategic and thought leadership to engagement.  Someone who can work collaboratively across the organisation to lead and drive forward our ambition for engagement.

You will have significant experience of leading strategic engagement and customer experience to a complex multi-audience landscape within a complex cross-organisational operating model.  And be able to provide sector-leading thought-leadership and strategic expertise within engagement and customer experience.

You will have proven experience of delivering significant and sustainable business benefits through change programmes. And deep and broad experience of brand, marketing, digital and content.

You will have experience in understanding complex and wide-ranging external trends, taking the lead development of relevant cross-organisational strategic responses.  And significant experience of cross-functional and cross-organisational strategic leadership.

Closing date for applications: 9:00 am Monday 12 May 2025
Anticipated interview dates:
First interviews: Tuesday 27 May or Wednesday 28 May
Second interviews: Wednesday 4 June or Friday 6 June

Interested?

PLEASE PRESS THE 'HOW TO APPLY' BUTTON FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Equal Opportunities 
We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities and or from ethnic minority backgrounds.

We’d be grateful if you downloaded and completed the equality and diversity monitoring form and submit it with your application. 

Disability Confident Employer 
We’re a Disability Confident Employer and we’re committed to promoting equality and diversity.

You can ask for reasonable adjustments as part of both our recruitment and new starter on-boarding processes.

If you need any help or adjustments to apply for this role, please contact us. You can also ask for the application materials to be sent to you in a different format. Such as for them to be sent to you by email or in a larger word format.

More about our employee benefits:
We have a wide range of employee benefits including (but not limited to): 

Encouraging work life balance

• 38 days paid annual leave (including bank holidays), pro-rata for part-time
• More annual leave entitlement, based on length of employment
• Smart working options (with the opportunity to work remotely and find a smart working pattern that suits both you and us) 
• Flexible working options 

Caring for you and your family 

• Generous sick pay entitlement
• More sick pay entitlement, based on length of employment 
• Opportunity to buy and sell annual leave in each calendar year 
• Free access to a GP virtually 24 hours a day/7 days a week allowing you unlimited advice, reassurance and where appropriate diagnosis 
• Enhanced leave for new parents 
• Free access to a confidential 24 hours a day/7 days a week helpline service for both you and your family with a specialist range of support and information
• Special leave options (such as up to 5 days paid leave for domestic or personal emergencies a year)
• 10 days paid disability leave a year, pro-rata for part-time 
• 10 days paid carers’ leave a year, pro-rata for part-time 
• Cycle to work scheme 
• Death in service scheme
• New family-friendly benefits, including paid leave:
  • In the event of miscarriage or still birth 
  • To support fertility treatments
  • For antenatal appointments for both parents

Thinking about your finances 

• Enhanced salary sacrifice pension scheme
• Discounted season ticket loan and interest-free emergency loans
• Give as you earn to support other charities of your choice before tax
• New employee portal including lifestyle savings vouchers and personal wellbeing

Enriching your life at work

• Personalised development plans with a wide range of training courses and opportunities to source additional training options with your line manager
• Yearly internal apprenticeship opportunities
• New, modern offices that embrace working together both in-person and remotely 
• Various opportunities to influence how we internally operate (including surveys, and focus and committee groups) 
• Active and supportive internal employee networking groups for collaboration and peer support 
• 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering for MS Society activities during normal working hours (such as fundraising events, or campaigning in the local community) 
• 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering with other charities during normal

Safeguarding 
We’re committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of everyone who uses our services and we come into contact with.

This is regardless of Gender, Race, Disability, Sexual orientation, Religion or belief, Pregnancy, Gender reassignment.

We recognise our particular responsibility to make sure vulnerable adults and children are protected.

We have measures in place to protect everyone we come into contact with from abuse and maltreatment of all kinds.

Your right to work in the UK 
You must have the right to work in the UK to work in paid employment with us. You’ll need to share documents showing you’re eligible to work in the UK if we offer you employment.

You can find the UK visas and permits granting you the right to work in the UK on the UK Government website. We currently don’t have a Sponsor Licence agreement with the Home Office and aren’t able to support you with your visa applications.

No agencies please.

We are looking for a talented Communications Assistant with organisational, people and coordination skills to join a busy and varied directorate in a professional membership organisation. 

The Communications Assistant will be an integral role in the communications directorate, supporting the Director and teams to deliver on ambitious objectives. We’re looking for an organised self-starter with good writing skills, who can turn their hand to event organisation, support with our publications and a variety of communications tasks, as well as offering support to the Communications Director and Heads of Teams. 

You’ll be calm, have good administrative skills, adept at plate spinning and able to manage a varied workload, whilst learning huge amounts about communications and customer engagement. You will have demonstratable knowledge, interest, or experience of working within a Communications team, and have strong communication skills, with an understanding of how to effectively plan and manage your own time. 

What you’ll do

• Provide admin and communications support to our flagship publications, 
• Work on our annual censuses, including data verification and stakeholder engagement
• Support with branding and corporate communications activity
• Help to coordinate and deliver events
• Draft and deliver a range of communications, from website content to briefings.
• Deliver administrative support across the directorate
• Provide excellent customer service to Fellows and members. 

What you’ll need

• Demonstrated knowledge, experience or interest of working within a Communications team
• Ability to manage databases, organise meetings effectively and support administratively
• Ability to multitask in a multi-faceted role
• An understanding of how to support senior executives effectively
• Good writing and communication skills
• Great attention to detail
• Flexible and self-motivated 
• Able to manage a varied workload 

Why join us:

• Make a difference to the lives of Doctors and the specialities they work in every day!
• Hybrid working (up to 60% working week can be done remotely)
• Modern working environment
• Equipment provided to work from home
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Excellent pension scheme
• Interest free season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme

Join one of the world’s greatest literary institutions and lead the strategic growth of our membership and engagement work as we continue to inspire and support readers, writers and thinkers from across the globe.

About us

Founded in 1841, The London Library is a thriving hub of inspiration, discovery and creativity. With a collection of over one million books and a proud history of nurturing literary talent, it remains a cornerstone of the UK’s cultural and intellectual life.

We are an independent, subscription-based library and registered charity that offers members access to an unparalleled collection, beautiful working spaces in central London, and an extensive programme of events and learning opportunities. Our members come from all walks of life and include readers, researchers, emerging and established writers, and anyone with a passion for the written word.

About the role

We are now seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Membership and Engagement to lead and deliver an ambitious membership strategy that will grow, diversify, and retain our membership base. Positioned on the Executive Team, and reporting to the Director of The London Library, you will oversee a talented team spanning membership, marketing and communications, and public engagement.

You will be responsible for developing and delivering strategies that strengthen our brand and visibility, grow income from membership, and deepen engagement with existing and prospective members. You will also oversee a rich programme of public and member events, our award-winning Emerging Writers Programme, and a growing portfolio of learning and outreach activity.

This role is both strategic and hands-on, requiring a blend of strong leadership, innovative thinking, and operational oversight. You will work closely with colleagues across the Library, Trustees, partners and ambassadors to champion the member experience and help drive the organisation forward.

What we are looking for

We are looking for a confident and experienced senior leader with a track record of driving audience growth, engagement, and income. You will bring substantial experience in membership, marketing, communications, and public engagement, ideally in a membership or cultural organisation. You will be a skilled team leader with a collaborative style, strong financial acumen, and the ability to use data insight to shape strategy.

Crucially, you will be inspired by The London Library’s mission and excited to play a leading role in helping us broaden our reach and impact. You will be a natural ambassador with a flair for building partnerships, leading through influence, and communicating compellingly with a wide range of audiences.

This is a rare opportunity to join a much-loved institution and help shape its future.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Tuesday 27th May 2025

The Willesden Area Director of Ministry is a senior member of the Willesden Area Team, responsible for providing visionary leadership and ensuring good management of key ministry initiatives. Specifically, the postholder oversees fostering vocations to lay and ordained ministries, directing ordinands, supervising post ordination training, overseeing clergy ministerial review, development, and training, facilitating lay training programmes, holding diocesan Clergy Well-being portfolio. As a senior member of the Willesden Area Team the Area Director of Ministry will also contribute to strategic planning and implementation of ministry objectives within the Area.

The Willesden ADM serves as the Diocesan Portfolio lead for Clergy Well-Being. Collaborating with The Bishop’s Adviser to the Bishop of London, they work with other Area Directors of Ministry (ADMs), the London College of Bishops, and diocesan and Area colleagues, to create a strategic vision and processes to implement improved Clergy Well-Being across the diocese.

Job responsibilities 

Develop Vocations and Support Ordinands  

• Organises events to equip and inspire both lay and ordained vocations. 
• Collaborates with clergy/churches to nurture a diversity of vocations. 
• Leads the AADO team overseeing candidate discernment and ordinand training. 
• Supports ordinands through training, collaborating with TEIs. 

Manages Post-Ordination Training, CMD and IME2  

• Oversees Area post-ordination training programs (IME2). 
• Plan Area ordination retreats and services. 
• Manages the curate placement process for the Willesden Area. 
• Organises training events for clergy and LLM development. 
• Facilitate Area training events (including Clergy Study Days and Area Conferences) 
• Oversee the Willesden Area process of Ministerial Development Review (MDR) 
• Ensure regular communication about training opportunities and grants. 
• Participate and deliver diocesan and national training programmes. 

Lay Training  

• Ensures high-quality training for lay ministers. 
• Communicates training opportunities within and beyond the diocese. 

Collaborates & Communicates  

• Participates in regular meetings with the Area Leadership Team. 
• Works with Diocesan Director of Ministry and within Diocesan Ministry Team. 
• Works with other ADMs, DDO and participates in diocesan initiatives. 

Team Leadership  

• Recruit, manage, motivate, and develop direct reports, promoting continuous learning and collaborative working. 

Diocesan Lead on Clergy Well-being Portfolio 

• Advises the London College of Bishops on Clergy Well-being best practice. 
• In consultation with Area and diocesan stakeholders, to provide strategic oversight of diocesan clergy well-being. 
• Overseas the Diocesan Clergy Well-being budget. 
• Line-manage the Diocesan Disability Ministry Enabler  
• Undertake other duties commensurate of the role.

Please refer to the attached Job Description for the full details on the main responsibilities. 

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Experience of Ordained/Lay Ministerial strategic planning  
• Experience of teaching/training theology or ministry
• Is a practicing Anglican  
• Demonstrate good conflict management skills
• Experience of fostering vocations
• Significant experience in effective parochial ministry
• Experience managing/supervising a team  
• Strong verbal and written communication
• Willingness to flexible working
• Right to work in the UK
• A commitment to professional development  
• The person will require an enhanced DBS check

Desirable 

• Is ordained  
• Knowledge of the New Diocesan Discernment Process
• IT proficiency (MS Office suite)
• Knowledge of IME2 provision

Please refer to the attached Job Description for the full details on Person Specification. 

About the London Diocesan Fund 

The London Diocesan Fund (LDF) is the employment body that serves and supports the Diocese of London and Church of England. The Diocese of London comprises of c400 parishes north of the River Thames and within the M25 motorway. 

The Church of England in London is growing, vibrant and at the heart of communities throughout the capital. At the London Diocesan Fund, we seek to do everything we can to support this mission and growth, using our resources to help our parishes and chaplains to serve over 4 million people. 

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion 

The Diocese of London is committed to creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive workforce which represents our context and wider community. 

We are aware that those of Global Majority Heritage/United Kingdom Minority Ethnic (GMH/UKME), women, and disabled people are currently under-represented among our clergy and workforce, and we particularly encourage applications from those with the relevant skills and experience that will increase this representation. 

Safeguarding 

The Diocese of London is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. 

Benefits of working with us 

The LDF offers a supportive working environment, opportunity for career development and the following financial benefits: 

• Competitive remuneration package
• 27 annual leave days, increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service. Plus paid bank holidays
• 15% employer pension contribution and salary sacrifice available
• Death in service benefit x3 of basic gross salary
• Enhanced maternity leave of six months full pay, after 12 months of employment
• Season ticket loans for public transport
• Access to Benenden Health Insurance
• EAP counselling through Health Assured                            
• Up to £100 for eye test and contribution to spectacles                      
• Two additional paid days for community volunteering

The interviews will be held on 23rd May 2025 in-person at our office in London.

CENTRE FOR AGEING BETTER

Communications Officer – Homes team

· 3 months Fixed Term

· Salary £37,275 per annum

· Full time

· Flexible working options will be supported.

· Central London Office and Hybrid working

We offer a pension scheme with employer contribution up to 10%, in addition you’ll receive 28 days holiday plus bank holidays, 24-hour access to a comprehensive employee assistance programme, cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan scheme and other benefits.

About the role

We’re looking for a talented and motivated Communications Officer to join our Homes team at the Centre for Ageing Better. In this exciting and varied role, you’ll lead on delivering high-quality, impactful communications that raise awareness of the importance of good quality, accessible housing for older people.

You’ll be responsible for creating engaging content across a range of channels – from blogs and case studies to media pitches and social media posts – and help shape and deliver communications and influencing plans for key projects. You'll also support events, stakeholder engagement and public affairs activity, working closely with colleagues across the Homes and Communications teams.

The role offers the opportunity to make a real difference to our external presence and influence, contributing to national conversations on housing and ageing. You'll be at the heart of a dynamic and supportive team, with flexible working and hybrid office arrangements in place.

About you

We’re looking for someone who is a strong communicator, creative storyteller and confident writer, able to turn complex ideas into accessible content for a range of audiences. You’ll be comfortable managing multiple priorities, planning communications activity, and working collaboratively across teams.

You’ll bring experience working in a communications role and have a good understanding of media engagement, content creation, and digital communications. Ideally, you’ll also have some knowledge of housing or the challenges facing our ageing population, but more importantly, you’ll have a passion for making change happen through great communications.

You’ll be highly organised, enthusiastic, and collaborative, ready to take the initiative while being a strong team player. A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion is essential, along with a willingness to learn and grow in the role.

About us

The Centre for Ageing Better is a charitable foundation funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and part of the government’s What Works Network

Everyone has the right to a good life as they get older and our whole society benefits when people are able to age well. But far too many people face huge barriers, and as a result are living in bad housing, dealing with poverty and poor health and made to feel invisible in their communities and society.

The Centre for Ageing Better is pioneering ways to make ageing better a reality for everyone. Its key areas of work include challenging ageism and building a nationwide Age-friendly Movement, creating Age-friendly Employment and Age-friendly Homes.

We are striving to create an organisation that reflects our society and the communities we serve. A workplace where everyone feels empowered and where diversity of background and thought is celebrated. We know there is more work to be done and are committed to continuing to improve our practice around Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

We very much welcome applications from minority groups and those underrepresented in our workforce. This especially includes people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBT+ people, and Disabled people.

We are a Positive Action employer, therefore in recruitment where two candidates are ‘as qualified as’ each other, we will favour a candidate from any group identified as currently underrepresented in our team based on protected characteristics as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.

For 140 years, the Forces Employment Charity has proudly supported Service leavers, veterans, and their families in building successful civilian careers.

We provide veterans with life-long, life-changing support, jobs, and training opportunities, regardless of circumstances, rank, length of service, or reason for leaving.

Brief role description:

The Communications Manager will play a key role in sharing the inspiring and powerful stories of our clients and the wider military community we support across the UK. They will be responsible for securing high-profile, meaningful media coverage that raises awareness of our mission to provide life-long, life-changing support, employment and training opportunities to Service leavers, veterans, reservists and their families. As we mark our 140th anniversary, this is a pivotal time for the Communications Manager to develop and deliver an integrated communications strategy across PR, traditional and new media, social media, and public affairs. Reporting to the Head of Brand and Communications, you will work closely with the Marketing Manager and the Community Engagement Manager and their teams to ensure consistent and aligned messaging across all marketing and
communication activity.​​

Interested? Want to know more about the Charity? Please visit the Charity Website

Eager to know more the role? Have a look at the Job Description attached.                                                                           

What’s in it for you? Check out the Benefits sheet attached.

Have we convinced you to apply? If so, submit your CV and Covering Letter by closing date Wednesday 14 May 2025.

​Please note: Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert; therefore, we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible. ​If you are an internal applicant, please ensure you have made The People Team aware before applying.​

We are committed to equal opportunities and improving the working lives of our staff by fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone, including those with disabilities, can thrive, develop, and achieve their full potential. We actively encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and ensure reasonable adjustments are made to support candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.​

​We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process.

UK Feminista is recruiting for a Director.

Hours: full-time, 35 hours per week
Salary: £53,130 per annum
Location: Flexible (home working, based in our coworking space in London or hybrid). Regular office attendance required (minimum once a week). 

Role Overview

The Director of UK Feminista plays a pivotal role in driving forward the organisation’s mission to advance sex equality through strategic leadership, operational oversight, and external advocacy. They are responsible for shaping and delivering UK Feminista’s long term vision, ensuring that its work remains bold, effective, and rooted in feminist principles. Working closely with the Board of Directors, the Director leads the organisation’s strategic planning processes, oversees programme delivery, and ensures compliance with all legal and regulatory responsibilities.

The role requires strong financial stewardship and a proactive approach to income generation, including fundraising from trusts, foundations, and supporters. The Director also manages a small staff team, fostering an inclusive and empowering organisational culture. As a visible leader and public representative, the Director builds relationships with stakeholders across civil society, education, media, and politics to maximise the organisation’s influence and impact. This is a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic organisation that challenges systemic inequality across the UK.

2. Application process

Documents

Please apply via CharityJob, including your CV, covering letter, and Recruitment Monitoring Form.

The covering letter should include answers to the following:

• Tell us about your background and experience
• Why are you interested in the role and how do you meet the requirements?
• What is your approach to feminist campaigning? 

The Recruitment Monitoring Form is available to download from the UK Feminista website. This will not be viewed in conjunction with the application.

A copy of UK Feminista’s HR Privacy Notice can be provided upon request.

We are committed to increasing diversity in our team and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants from underrepresented groups who meet the essential criteria for the role. If you wish to be considered under this scheme, please indicate this in your application.

Deadline and key dates

The deadline for applications is 9am Saturday 10th May 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.

Applicants must be available to attend a face-to-face interview in London week commencing 19th May 2025. This will include a short task about which you will receive information when offered an interview. 

Candidates shortlisted for interview will be notified by Tuesday 13th May 2025. If you have not heard from us by that time your application has been unsuccessful. 

3.  About UK Feminista

UK Feminista is a feminist campaigning organisation working for a society in which women and girls live free from sexism and violence. We campaign for systemic change so that women can enjoy their rights as enshrined in the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. We exist to tackle the root causes of sex inequality.

As part of our vision and in line with our partners, UK Feminista recognises prostitution, pornography and lap dancing as forms of commercial sexual exploitation. We further recognise a woman’s right to access a legal, free, safe abortion as fundamental to women’s reproductive rights.

Our values: 

• Feminist  We are a feminist organisation which recognises and actively works against discrimination. 

• Collectivism – We are compassionate and acknowledge our mutual responsibility to support one another, stay connected, share knowledge and contribute to collective efforts.

• Adaptable – We work flexibly and dynamically, taking initiative and staying curious so we can learn from each other and respond to our changing environment. 

• Professionalism – We are a passionate team of experts motivated to deliver high quality, evidence based campaigns with integrity. We are committed to collaborating with other experts and working to amplify the voices of survivors. 

• Ambitious – We are bold and ambitious for change in society. We are also ambitious for our people, who we support to develop and thrive. 

Our current strategic priorities:

1. Combating commercial sexual exploitation – our long term goal is that the government adopts laws to effectively combat commercial sexual exploitation and support victims survivors. 
We work with survivors, policy makers and practitioners to combat commercial sexual exploitation. We provide the Secretariat for the UK Parliament’s AllParty Parliamentary Group on Commercial Sexual Exploitation. We also provide the Secretariat for A Model For Scotland and the CoSecretariat for Not For Sale.
 

​2. Tackling sexism and sexual harassment in schools and colleges – our longterm goal is that all schools and colleges take effective action against sexism and sexual harassment.

We conduct research, provide training and resources to schools, and run a national award scheme which recognises schools that take outstanding action against sexism. 

UK Feminista is a not for profit company limited by guarantee, established for charitable purposes. Our work is governed by a Board of Directors.

4. Job description

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Strategy

• Develop and implement UK Feminista’s strategic vision and business plan.
• Ensure operational efficiency, compliance, and financial sustainability.
• Represent UK Feminista externally and engage with key stakeholders.

2. Fundraising & Financial Management

•  Identify and secure funding from trusts, foundations, and other sources.
•  Manage funder relationships, applications, and reporting.
•  Manage financial processes, including budgeting, payroll approvals, and compliance.

3. Governance & Compliance

• Serve as the main liaison with the Board of Directors, preparing papers and reports.
• Ensure compliance with legal, financial, and safeguarding regulations.
• Act as the organisation’s Designated Safeguarding Lead and Data Protection Officer.

4. People & Operations Management

• Lead and support the staff team, ensuring effective recruitment, onboarding, and performance management.
• Maintain and implement HR policies and procedures.
• Ensure staff have the necessary resources and support.

5. Communications & Public Engagement

• Act as the organisation’s spokesperson, managing media relations and public representation.
• Oversee external communications, including the website, press releases, and advocacy efforts.

6. Programme & Campaign Oversight

• Provide strategic oversight and management of UK Feminista’s Programmes, ensuring effective delivery and advocacy.
• Lead policy and campaign work on commercial sexual exploitation 
• Represent the organisation in advocacy networks and campaigns.

The postholder will manage a small team, and report to the Board of Directors. 

Notes

This job description cannot cover every issue or task that may arise within the post at various times and the postholder will be expected to carry out other duties from time to time which are broadly consistent with those in this document.

5. Person specification

Skills, knowledge and experience 

Essential 

• Proven senior leadership experience in the charity, advocacy, or public affairs sector.
• Strong fundraising and financial management skills.
• Experience in strategic planning and organisational development.
• Strong people management and HR experience.
• Knowledge of governance, compliance, and safeguarding.
• Excellent communication and media engagement skills.
• Commitment to feminist principles and gender equality.

Desirable

•  Experience in political lobbying and public affairs.
•  Knowledge of gender equality in education.
•  Background in campaigning or policy development.

Personal qualities 

• Commitment to the aims and values of UK Feminista
• Teamplayer:

• • Happy to regularly provide and receive constructive feedback in support of achieving organisational objectives 

• • Collaborative and able to work flexibly in a small team to deliver shared priorities 

• • Supportive and eager to help colleagues develop and grow

• • Keen to proactively contribute ideas and knowledge in team meetings

• Proactive:

• • Enthusiastic, self-motivated and happy to work independently

• • Able to organise, plan and deliver work under pressure and ahead of time

• • Able to take responsibility and ownership over own work, including through applying a high attention to detail to ensure accuracy and quality and asking for support when needed

• • Willing to learn and develop

• Resourceful and adaptable: 

• • Solutions-focused, a ‘can do’ attitude and able to demonstrate initiative when facing challenges

• • Creative and able to maximise outputs from a small budget and limited time

• • Happy to work responsively to a changing context and to the timelines of external stakeholders 

Note: UK Feminista is committed to safe and fair recruitment, safeguarding and protecting those who come into contact with the organisation. We ensure all our staff are vetted to the appropriate standard for the role undertaken, and that staff are supported and trained to undertake safeguarding responsibilities to a high standard. 

Due to the nature of the role, the successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check before an offer of employment is confirmed. UK Feminista is committed to equality of opportunity for all and welcomes applications from a wide range of candidates, including those with criminal records. UK Feminista undertakes not to discriminate unfairly against any subject of a criminal record check on the basis of a conviction or other information revealed. We would be very happy to discuss the nature of convictions if applicants have any concerns. To arrange a confidential phone call, please contact us.

We are looking for an experienced, visionary and strategic Director of Community Services to lead and develop our Advice and Support Services and our Engagement and Development Programmes. You will have a passion for, and a demonstrable track record of, building strong, resilient, and inclusive communities as well as developing and motivating a team of staff and volunteers. You will be a supportive, compassionate, enthusiastic, and experienced leader and manager of Community led and quality-led Community services.

An effective change manager, you will be passionate about making a real difference to the Irish and wider communities across London. This is a great opportunity to join the leadership team of the London Irish Centre (LIC) as it embarks upon a significant turning point in its 70-year history, helping the charity deliver its ambitious organisational strategy to empower and enrich even more lives through Irish Community and Culture.

About You

• You have demonstrable experience of leading and managing community services in the independent or public sector for a minimum of ten years.
• You are a professional, enthusiastic leader who can bring your sector experience to benefit this critical role and the wider organisation.
• You are an inspirational leader, bringing a team and others with you and leading by example.
• You have a proven track record in successfully leading a team, across multiple service delivery areas, and in implementing change.
• You are well-organised, able to manage several competing requirements with the ability to prioritise your work effectively to meet tight deadlines.
• You demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal and are comfortable working with people across a wide portfolio, with various levels of experience and socio-economic backgrounds.

Key areas of responsibility

 Workforce

• Maintain a positive culture within the Centre in line with the London Irish Centre values and expectations.
• Overall responsibility for management, development, motivation, support and appraisal of the community services teams, and other team members when agreed with the line manager.
• Maintain and implement effective policies and processes for managing staff and volunteers, including recruitment and retention, induction, training and appraisals. 
• Ensure adequate and appropriately skilled staffing of the community services team.
• Monitor performance against budgets, targets and Key Performance Indicators.
• Ensure best practice and quality assured delivery of Community Services and Programmes.

Financial 

• Overall responsibility for management and reporting of community services budget. 
• Overall responsibility for management and monitoring of all community services` grants. 
• Responsibility for ensuring services are managed within delegated budget.
• Operating within financial governance arrangements at London Irish Centre.

Income generation

• Ensure relationships with all supporters and donors are managed and developed effectively, including trusts, individuals, major donors and corporate partners. 
• Identify suitable new grant and trust funds and lead on applications.
• Lead on monitoring, reporting and submissions for current grant and trust funds in accordance with funders` requirements.

Impact and Innovation 

• Overall responsibility for the service`s impact management in line with the London Irish Centre’s theory of change. 
• Lead on identification and adoption of innovative technology to improve the processes and impact on community services.
• Overall responsibility for communicating the outcomes and impact of the community services and programmes.
• Strategic Development.
• Work with the CEO, other management and the Board of Trustees to set and achieve the charity`s strategic objectives. 
• Ensure Community Services resources are effectively targeted. 
• Lead in implementing a strategic plan for Community Services and support team leaders to deliver against performance targets. 
• Develop and foster positive relationships with external stakeholders. 
• Engage with existing and new partners to ensure the charity meets the increasing needs of those who use our community services.

This job description is a guide to the nature of the work required of the Director of Community Services. It is not wholly comprehensive or restrictive and may be reviewed as required.

In our application pack we have included a job description and person specification to support your candidature. The details in the job description and person specification should be addressed in a maximum one-page cover letter. The cover letter should include your current job title, salary and position within banding where relevant. Click apply, upload your CV and cover letter to the portal on our website link.

 Please note that all roles at the London Irish Centre are subject to enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks as part of our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable individuals.

 The deadline for applications is Wednesday 30th April 9:00 a.m.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and we will be actively interviewing. We reserve the right to close applications before the stated deadline. Interviews will begin with an initial online screening, followed by in-person interviews at the Centre, likely during the week commencing May 5th.

Through the appointment of a Strategic Programme Director (SPD), we have been given an opportunity to bring a step change in our mission and ministry across the Diocese of Coventry.  With a history of innovative missional practice and a dedicated team of lay and ordained leaders across our diverse geographical area (Warwickshire, Coventry and part of Solihull), we are looking to appoint a strategic thinker who is solutions focused with experience in bringing impactful change. The SPD will join us at an exciting time in the strategic development of the Diocese of Coventry as our new diocesan bishop takes up her responsibilities with a vision to see all churches flourish. A highly consultative approach will be needed as we look ahead to the beginning of this new season.

The Strategic Programme Director will be responsible for contributing to and supporting the Bishop’s Senior Staff Team and key lay and ordained leaders in the delivery of the diocesan strategy. The role will ensure that the programmes, projects and workstreams within the plan are delivered on time, within scope and budget. The Programme Director will provide oversight of the strategic plan from inception of ideas through implementation to delivery of projects.  Working collaboratively across the Diocese, the role will also ensure that key outcomes are well-defined, appropriately prioritised, delivered to plan and within budget. The role will include shaping and scoping the request for partnership/external funding.

Programme Development & Planning

• In the first year: To prioritise the clear articulation of a diocesan wide vision and direction of travel through working closely with the Bishop and the Bishop’s Senior Staff Team building on the work achieved in recent years.
• Work with key stakeholders to develop strategic initiatives aligned with the diocesan vision and strategy
• Ensure strategic proposals have clarity and viability
• Ensure effective communication with clarity, consistency and transparency
• Work with senior leaders to prioritise outline proposals
• Work with senior leaders to develop change proposals including detailed outcomes and the process by which those outcomes will be achieved
• Regularly assess the viability of development proposals
• Work with partnership funding bodies, including the C of E Vision and Strategy Team, to submit funding proposals and assure the quality of applications for any partnership funding
• Represent the Diocese in discussions with partnership funders
• Work with senior leaders to make the best use of central resources to support change

Programme Management

• Facilitate the launch of partnership-funded strategic projects, ensuring they are appropriately planned, resourced, measured and managed.
• Establish appropriate programme governance, including risk management, change management, regular reporting, and budget management
• Work with the communications team to ensure consistent and effective messaging
• Establish review and support processes to ensure projects are delivered successfully
• Ensure intervention processes are developed to pause, or if necessary, terminate projects that have demonstrated they will not deliver
• Capture and publish lessons learned, and support research studies
• Build consistent protocols for all significant strategic development initiatives
• Track progress against a detailed project plan, deliverables, outcomes and measures
• Manage changes in project scope, schedule and costs, escalating to BSIG as required
• Provide support for operational aspects of projects in liaison with diocesan colleagues
• Ensure project leads/managers regularly complete a quality project highlight report
• Address project issues and risks, escalating to BSST accordingly
• Report project status to BSST on a regular basis
• Oversee production of all necessary annual reports for the Strategic Investment Board

Purpose of the job

 We are seeking a highly skilled Communications Manager to lead and deliver strategic communications across all key external audiences. This role is central to driving awareness of the impact of UK Youth’s work, amplifying the voice of young people, and advocating for urgent action to support youth work and organisations across the UK. It is a demanding role, requiring close collaboration with the Head of Brand, Communications & Marketing, CEO, and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to enhance visibility and engagement at the highest levels. 

Key responsibilities

 Strategic Communications & Messaging:

• Develop and execute UK Youth’s external communications strategy to increase awareness, engagement, and advocacy. 

• Craft compelling messaging that effectively communicates the impact of our work, the challenges facing young people, and the importance of youth work. 

• Ensure consistency of messaging across all communication channels and materials. 

 Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Support the Head of Brand, Communications & Marketing in delivering high-profile campaigns and media strategies. 

• Partner with the CEO and SLT to enhance their visibility, providing strategic communications support, speechwriting, and media briefings. 

• Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including policymakers, funders, and media contacts. 

 Media & Public Relations:

• Lead on media engagement, securing press coverage that highlights UK Youth’s impact and advocacy efforts. 

• Draft press releases, opinion pieces, and statements that position UK Youth as a leading voice in the youth sector. 

• Manage reactive and crisis communications, ensuring UK Youth’s reputation is protected and strengthened. 

 Campaigns & Content Development:

• Develop and oversee the production of high-impact content, including reports, blogs, speeches, and social media materials. 

• Lead on storytelling initiatives that amplify young people’s voices and highlight the real-world impact of UK Youth’s work. 

• Work collaboratively with the marketing team to align messaging across digital and traditional channels. 

 Advocacy & Influence

• Ensure UK Youth’s communications support and enhance policy and advocacy work. 

• Develop materials that translate complex policy issues into compelling, accessible messages. 

• Support campaigns that mobilise public and stakeholder support for greater investment in youth work. 

Experience

• Proven track record in strategic communications, public relations, or media engagement, preferably within the charity, public, or advocacy sectors.

• Experience managing high-profile campaigns that drive awareness, engagement, and action.

• Strong background in stakeholder engagement, including working with policymakers, funders, media, and senior leadership teams.

• Experience developing and delivering crisis communication strategies.

• Knowledge of the youth sector, social justice issues, or non-profit communications is highly desirable.

Who we are

UK Youth is a leading charity that exists to ensure all young people are equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives. We work with others to ensure that the youth sector is strengthened, supported, and that provision is youth-led, evidence-informed and delivers high-quality outcomes.

UK Youth plays a unique role in addressing; the lack of investment in the youth sector, the lack of cross sector understanding in how youth work makes a difference and the limited opportunities to embed effective solutions. These factors lead to mass inequality of access to youth services for young people. To find more about us and how we make an impact, please visit UK Youth Website.

Why work at UK Youth?

 UK Youth is a leading charity that exists to ensure all young people are equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives. We have influence as a sector-supporting infrastructure body, a direct delivery partner and a campaigner for social change. As outlined in our 2025 #unlockingyouthwork strategy, we believe youth work is a catalyst for change that young people need now more than ever. We play a unique role in addressing; the lack of investment into the youth sector, the lack of cross-sector understanding of how youth work makes a difference and the limited opportunities to embed effective solutions.

 We are building a movement of change; galvanising likeminded individuals, organisations, government, and businesses from all sectors, to work together and deliver system change for all young people. Together we will create a society that understands, champions, and delivers effective youth work for all.

What we can offer you

We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance, excellent learning and development opportunities and vibrant organisational culture:

• Flexible/Agile Working

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)

• Funded training provided in; Safeguarding, GDPR, Information and Cyber Security & Equality & Diversity

• Other training available in support of your personal and professional development

• Pension scheme (currently UK Youth match employee contributions up to 5%)

• Membership of our life insurance scheme which would pay-out up to 4 times your salary

• Employee Assistance Programme to support employees both professionally and personally

• 20% discount off bookings at Avon Tyrrell, our New Forest Outdoor Centre, including camping, lodges and outdoor activities.

• IT equipment provided for the duration of contract

• CycleScheme and TechScheme

How to apply

If you would like to be considered for this fantastic opportunity, please complete an application via our completely anonymised recruitment system provided by Applied which looks to create a fair and unbiased application process for all. Scroll to the top of the page and start your application.

Closing date: Wednesday 14th May at 11:59PM (midnight)

Provisional Interview Date: TBC 

As this role involves working in a regulated environment with young people, any offer will be conditional to satisfactory background checks, which include criminal record check and employment reference.