Director of fundraising and communications jobs

This role requires that you are resident and have the right to work in the UK.

About NEON  

NEON is a not-for-profit organisation that exists to help social justice movements win. We build capacity and infrastructure to accelerate the transition to a new economy. We work across a wide range of progressive issues including climate, housing, healthcare and migration. Across our three hubs (movement building, communications and operations) we support a network of over 1000 movement organisations working towards political and social justice in the UK. 

This role is anchored within NEON’s Comms Hub. Established 10 years ago, the Comms Hub is a powerful, effective, pillar of the UK’s progressive communications infrastructure. The Hub convenes, networks, and books progressive spokespeople into the media at scale (averaging 1,500-2,000 media bookings a year), produces clear, usable tested messaging guidance that cuts through, and trains comms professionals (around 500 people annually). Our team serves as a go-to resource for strategic comms advice and planning, and crisis-comms support for groups across the progressive movement. NEON’s Comms Hub is relied on by a wide-range of organisations: from grassroots campaigners to expert insiders.  The Comms Hub has five programmes, and Digital will be the sixth programme.

Read more about the structure of the Comms Hub here, before applying. 

Purpose of this role

The Head of Digital is an exciting new role at NEON. This role will be responsible for designing and running a flagship new digital programme, that will sit at the heart of NEON’s Communications Hub. The aim of the digital programme will be to help connect, strengthen and scale the UK’s progressive digital comms infrastructure. 

Right now, progressive movements are losing the "air game" to far-right voices who are effectively using podcasts, social media, new media platforms and smart, aggressive, experimental digital strategies to dominate and shape national debates. 

Working closely with our experienced Comms Hub team, and our trusted networks, this role is a unique opportunity to be part of building the digital comms networks, skills and strategies progressive movements need to take on the rising far right – and win. 

At NEON, that would mean: convening and co-ordinating communities of digital comms experts, creators, editors and strategists; designing and delivering effective targeted digital skills training that will build capacity and confidence; supporting our 24/7 spokesperson and media booking team by setting up effective clipping and distribution programmes; and identifying opportunities to collaborate with our partners to run high-impact reactive digital strategies that shift the conversation. 

What you’ll be doing: 

The successful candidate will play an active role in shaping the strategy and focus of this programme, as well as the sequencing of the roll out of key workstreams. However, this role is likely to be anchored around the following key responsibilities. In this role, you will: 

1. Lead the strategy development and delivery of the new digital comms programme, alongside the Co-Directors of the Comms Hub.

2. Set up and manage a supportive, reactive social media unit within our existing Spokesperson Network, with the support of our Media and Messaging teams. This unit will clip interviews and create original content for our established network of spokespeople, and help to secure bookings in new digital-first media outlets. 

3. Work closely with the whole Comms Hub team, to design and convene a powerful co-ordinated network of progressive creators and influencers. Built from our existing spokesperson pool, as well as new networks, members of this digital creator network will be individuals with the backing of social movements and the reach, potential and positioning to shape the national debate. Together with the Heads of Messaging, Training and Media, you will help to provide this network with hands-on training and strategy support, evidence-based messaging, and traditional and new media booking opportunities. 

4. Design and oversee a strategic, effective suite of digital training offers, designed to upskill influential progressive spokespeople, movements and groups, at scale. This will include shaping our existing training programmes, as well as designing and developing new offers. This could include: a half-day follow-up to our flagship 3-day spokesperson training, a one-day digital strategy training for comms teams within our networks, and shaping our bespoke, issue-specific and crisis-focused trainings to support groups dealing with online-hate or abuse. This workstream will be supported by our Head of Training, relevant Comms Hub team members and delivered with the support of external consultant trainers. 

5. Identify opportunities to trial and run effective digital ‘experiments’ with partners and movement groups within the Comms Hub. For example, this could look like collaborating with a network of migrants-rights groups to create co-ordinated digital content to push-back against a far-right attack at a moment of ‘whirlwind’. Or spotting an opportunity to work with the Head of Messaging to trial a new AI-driven platform to A/B test messaging in targeted ads during a movement campaign on wealth taxes. 

6. Set up a network of consultants to support and deliver the core programme workstreams including: freelance videographers, editors, digital strategists and trainers. 

7. Provide on-going 1:1 support to our spokespeople and allied organisations, particularly during moments of crisis and ‘whirl-wind’.

8. Provide regular insights to our partners on the digital trends shaping public opinion and national discourse. 

9. Play an active role in the wider Comms Hub strategy and day-to-day operations, including attending our weekly strategy meetings,  feeding into key messaging and narrative development projects, and supporting delivery across the hub. 

10. Oversee and the digital programme’s finances and budget on a month-to-month basis, and the programmes’ Fundraising Strategy, with the support of the Co-Directors of Comms and the Head of Fundraising. 

11. Play an active part in the wider NEON team, contributing to organisation-wide plans. 

Who you are: 

You will be someone with:

• 5–10 years’ experience in digital comms, including developing and deploying a strategy for multi-year multi-project programmes of work

• A track record of creating innovative, high-impact digital campaigns and content that push forward a progressive agenda

• Hands-on experience of creating shareable and persuasive video and digital content, campaigns and strategies that cut through, reache new audiences at scale, mobilise movements and persuade new audiences of progressive ideas

• A strong understanding of digital media, and a natural enthusiasm for tracking and responding to new trends in a fast-changing digital media landscape 

• Someone who enjoys piloting new approaches, experimenting with new techniques and quickly jumping on opportunities to tell compelling progressive stories online.

• Experience developing the tone, positioning and personal brand of an organisation, spokesperson or individual online.

• A strong understanding of the news agenda – you’ll enjoy being plugged in to how online conversations are changing, and be able to quickly jump on opportunities to tell a compelling alternative progressive story. 

• Experience collaborating with creators, influencers, and a range of partners to deliver creative, hard-hitting campaigns, grow reach, drive action and really change minds

• A strong understanding of different audience types, and experience adapting messaging and using digital testing methods to assess impact and improve performance.

• Experience designing and running effective, inclusive training for diverse groups of people, with the ability to help others land powerful, shareable content too.

• Politically aware and motivated by progressive causes, with a commitment to centring anti-oppression in your work and helping ensure people — especially those from marginalised backgrounds — stay safe online and get their voices heard.

• Excellent team-working and relationship-building skills, with experience building networks, making connections and working across differences.

• Experience of fundraising, including building and maintaining funder relationships and making a compelling case for projects to a range of stakeholders.

We know that people from certain backgrounds and identities are often excluded in progressive movements and we’re committed to doing what we can to correct this. 

So:

1. We particularly welcome applications from marginalised groups, especially people of colour and other ethnic minorities, people who identify as LGBTQIA, Disabled people and those who identify as working class or have done so in the past.

2. We know the work goes way beyond "diversity", it's about making the space inclusive too. So we are continuously working on that at NEON. So far this includes tangible things like a flexible work policy so people have genuine flexibility around where and when they work and a 28 hour week as standard; a gender-neutral parenting/leave policy, an anti-oppression strategy which is held at senior level given how important it is to the organisation. It also includes the day-to-day work of creating psychological safety for everyone at NEON and celebrating the wisdom of black, indigenous, queer, Disabled and other cultures in the way we work and behave

There are no formal education requirements for this role. As long as you can show us you have the skills we don’t mind where you got them from! Also important to us is your potential to learn and grow in the role so even if you don’t have 100% of the skills listed we want to hear from you.

Dates: 

Application deadline: 28th June  2026, 11.59pm

Interview dates: First round of interviews: 8th & 9th July 2026, second round of interviews: 14th July 2026

Please visit our website for more details and to apply.

Liberty is seeking an experienced, dynamic and ambitious Individual Giving Manager to implement a recently adopted individual giving strategy, lead a fast-paced team, and drive forward the next phase of increased public fundraising.

We are looking for someone experienced in digital communications and conversion, excited by the chance to work across a range of human rights issues, and who brings solid experience in leading a team.

Our current priorities are to maximise the success and profitability of supporter acquisition and conversion (mostly digital), forming tailored, data-driven supporter journeys (online and offline), creating a culture of testing, evaluating and optimising, and delivering engaging, integrated fundraising campaigns based on Liberty’s public campaigning and legal cases, and the investigative journalism of Liberty Investigates.

Liberty fully embraces flexible working and is committed to employee development. We aim to encourage people from all backgrounds to work with us and are particularly interested in hearing from people from minority backgrounds and all socio-economic sections of society. Liberty supports hybrid working, with a minimum office attendance of between one and two days per week in the Westminster office, depending on contracted hours.

The deadline for applications is 9am Monday 15 June 2026

Applications received after this deadline will not be considered.

Please be aware that we do not accept CVs for this role. All applicants must complete the application form to apply.

First round interviews will be held online on Thursday 2 July 2026 and Friday 3 July 2026.

Second round interviews will be held in the office on Monday 13 July 2026.

The Centre for Progressive Change is looking for a Safe Sick Pay Campaign Director that will be part of the newly formed Executive Team. This is an exciting time to be joining the campaign, as we capitalise on our successes so far and plan for our next big policy gain - increasing the rate of Statutory Sick Pay.

This role will be in charge of the Safe Sick Pay campaign including the strategy to see an increase in the rate of Statutory Sick Pay, fundraising to implement the strategy, hiring campaign team members, supporting the team to implement the strategy, holding the key stakeholder relationships, driving the campaign, and delivering parts of the campaign where needed.

As a member of the Executive Team, they will be part of the team responsible for the strategy, structure, team, culture and finances of the organisation.

Responsible to: Executive Director

Location: Office in Sustainable Ventures, Waterloo, London

Salary: £66,000 - £76,000 starting salary based on experience

Contract type: Permanent

Hours: Full-time

Working Rhythm: We work in sprints - working for about 6-7 weeks and then taking time off during the Parliamentary recesses. We offer 40-days of annual leave (including bank holidays).

Closing date and time: Monday 15th June, 9am

Please see the job pack for full details of the role, interview process and more information about The Centre for Progressive Change.

Our client is one of the world’s leading humanitarian organisations working to save lives and build safer futures for communities affected by conflict. Through work in mine action, disarmament and post-conflict recovery, they help people reclaim land, rebuild livelihoods and move forward with safety and dignity.

At a time of profound geopolitical change, shifting donor priorities and increasing humanitarian need, they are creating a new Executive Director, External Affairs role to strengthen the organisation’s global influence, visibility, partnerships and long-term sustainability.

Executive Director, External Affairs

UK/International/Hybrid with regular travel

C. £110,000, with flexibility depending on location

Reporting to the CEO and serving as a member of the Executive Team, this role will bring together policy, advocacy, strategic partnerships, media, communications, philanthropy and income diversification into one coherent external affairs directorate. It is a significant opportunity to shape how the organisation is understood, supported and positioned globally across governments, multilateral institutions, philanthropy, civil society, security and defence audiences, and emerging funding markets.

The Executive Director, External Affairs will lead the organisation’s global voice and external positioning, ensuring the organisation speaks with clarity, authority and impact. They will build high-level partnerships, open new doors, diversify income, strengthen thought leadership and help articulate the relevance of the organisation’s work to humanitarian, security, stabilisation and recovery agendas, while safeguarding the organisation’s humanitarian principles and values.

We are seeking an exceptional senior leader with a strong track record in external affairs, policy, advocacy, partnerships, strategic communications or income generation within a complex international environment. You will bring credibility with senior stakeholders, the judgement to navigate sensitive geopolitical and reputational issues, and the ability to lead experienced, multi-disciplinary teams.

This is a rare opportunity to take on a newly created executive role at the heart of a globally respected organisation, helping ensure the organisation remains influential, sustainable and future-ready in a rapidly changing world.

Closing date: 25.6.26

Preliminary Interviews: 6-9.7.26

Final Interviews and assessments: From 14.7.26

To learn more about the opportunity and recruitment process, please follow the link below for the full appointment brief.

Executive Director, Customer Services

Cambridge

£102,500 per annum 

This is an exciting opportunity for an accomplished and values-driven leader to join CHS Group (Cambridge Housing Society) as our new Executive Director, Customer Services, following the retirement of the current postholder.

Mission and ambition

CHS Group is an independent charitable housing association and social enterprise serving Cambridge and Cambridgeshire. We provide affordable rented and shared ownership homes, housing with care for older people, supported housing, and a range of community services that help people build stability, independence and opportunity. We currently own and manage over 3,000 homes across the county.

Founded in 1927, our mission to meet the need for affordable homes in and around Cambridge is as relevant and urgent today as it has ever been. As a locally rooted organisation, we combine strong community connections with the ambition to deliver high-quality homes and services that enable people to flourish.

CHS is a well-led, financially strong organisation with the highest governance and viability ratings of G1/V1. We are ambitious for our customers and place them at the heart of everything we do, building on well-established tenant engagement and a strong commitment to listening, learning and improving. With the development of a new Corporate Plan, ongoing digital development, and a clear focus on service excellence, this is an exciting time to join us and lead and shape the next phase of our housing management and customer services, while also overseeing complaints and our small development team.

The person we need

Our new Executive Director will bring:

• A strong track record of strategic leadership in housing management and customer services within a regulated environment, delivering excellent outcomes and building a high-performance, customer-focused culture.
• In-depth expertise in housing legislation, tenancy law, safeguarding, and the regulatory framework for social housing.
• Proven success in improving customer satisfaction, service accessibility, and operational performance through effective use of data, insight, and service design.
• Experience of leading high-quality complaint handling, embedding learning, and using insight to drive service improvement.
• Experience of leading digital and process change that enhances the customer experience and improves organisational effectiveness.
• The ambition, judgement, and partnership skills to evolve services, inspire colleagues, and help deliver our new Corporate Plan.
• Ofqual-regulated level 5 qualification in housing management / foundation degree (or equivalent). 

A credible and collaborative leader, you will bring the communication skills, presence and emotional intelligence to build strong relationships with the Board, colleagues, tenants and partners. You will also demonstrate the integrity, values and personal qualities that reflect CHS’s culture and ways of working.

Deadline for applications:  5pm Sunday, 14th June 2026

Interview dates: Friday, 3rd July 2026

Responsible to: Content and Storytelling Lead
Based: Hybrid (average 1-2 days in office) The Grange, Saunderton, Princes Risborough
Contract: Permanent, Part Time (24.5 hours per week)
Salary: £25,200 - £25,900 per year

We are looking for a talented Copywriter to create compelling, supporter-focused copy that supports our marketing and communications activity, including our bi-annual supporter magazine, hearing link services outreach and various multi-channel marketing initiatives throughout the year – from volunteer recruitment and brand visibility to deaf awareness campaigns. You will bring the work of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People to life, through clear, compelling and emotionally engaging copy that tells our story and inspires supporters to stay connected and feel valued.

Working in the Creative Strategy team in the Performance Marketing and Communication division, you will work closely with the Content and Storytelling Lead, Associate Director of Creative Strategy and their respective teams, to deliver high-quality copy across a range of channels and campaigns.

The role requires strong brand marketing copywriting and storytelling skills, a supporter-first mindset, confidence writing to brand guidelines and tone of voice, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.

Details of responsibilities can be found in the job description, which is downloadable below.

Benefits

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Death in Service Payment
• Annual leave enhancements recognising long service 
• Day off for your birthday 
• Defined contribution group personal pension plan 
• Enhanced sick pay 
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay 
• Eye care 
• Hearing tests 
• Learning and Development opportunities
• Discounts on merchandise at Hearing Dog gift shops 
• Pet Dog Policy

For more information and to apply, visit our website via the ‘apply’ button.

Closing date: 10th June 2026

National charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People trains dogs to transform the lives of deaf people and provides hearing loss services – because nobody with hearing loss should feel alone.

The Sandhurst Trust - an extraordinary community.

The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst has shaped leaders since 1802.  Spanning heads of state, generals, ministers, diplomats and captains of industry – the Sandhurst alumni community is remarkable.

The Sandhurst Trust is the Academy’s independent charitable foundation and is responsible for securing philanthropic support for the Academy and its community, supporting expansion, innovation and initiatives that government funding alone cannot sustain. 

The Trust is at an inflection point. With new leadership and momentum, we are looking for exceptional development professionals to help build a once-in-a-generation philanthropic programme for an institution whose purpose has never felt more urgent.

Content and Communications Manager
£35,000-£40,000 (depending on experience)
Old College, The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) GU15, Hybrid

As Content & Communications Manager, you will develop a communications plan and shape the way the Trust connects with its global alumni community, makes the case for support, and tells the story of its impact to donors, partners, and prospects.

Working closely with the CEO and Director of Alumni Engagement and Regular Giving, you will lead the development of high-quality content across the full fundraising lifecycle, from articulating a compelling Case for Support and crafting tailored donor materials, to designing campaigns that drive regular giving participation and ensuring every event is supported by communications that reinforce engagement and stewardship.

This is a role for a creative, audience-focused communicator who understands how great storytelling drives philanthropic action. You will own all communications channels, email, web, social and beyond, and act as the guardian of the Trust's tone, brand and editorial standards, ensuring that everything produced reflects the heritage, quality and ambition of one of Britain's most storied institutions.

This role offers something that is genuinely rare in the fundraising profession: the opportunity to build something exceptional from the ground up, at a cornerstone British institution whose story, community and moment in time combine to make the case for philanthropy almost uniquely compelling. The Sandhurst Trust is looking to build a team full of passion and ambition so if this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.

The Trust operates a hybrid working model with two days onsite (Old College, RMAS, Camberley, GU15 4PQ).

Closing date: Midnight on 30 June 2026

Interested?

Please familiarise yourself with the attached Candidate Pack.
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter.

The Sandhurst Trust is partnering with Erin Hall-Westfall and Joanna Logan of Constellate Global Talent on this search.

No agencies please.

We are seeking a Digital Product Owner to join World Horse Welfare's Digital team based remotely on a 12 month fixed-term basis, working 40 hours per week Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm.

You will help shape, deliver and continuously improve digital services that support our charitable work. You will work closely with the Head of Digital, coordinating and overseeing the delivery of World Horse Welfare’s digital roadmap, ensuring that projects, teams and suppliers are aligned around clear priorities, timelines and dependencies.

This role acts as the connective point between Digital, Fundraising, Communications, Data, IT, UK and International Operations and external suppliers — ensuring that work is sequenced effectively, risks are managed early, and progress is communicated clearly.

This position is based remotely, however you will be required to attend the charity’s head office located in Norfolk a minimum of 6 times per year and this will be at your own expense for travel and accommodation. You must be a resident of the United Kingdom with all the necessary legislative ‘right to work’ documentation.

Key working relationships

• Head of Digital (strategic lead)

• CRM Manager

• Project delivery leads (website, GoDonate, Gifted, Clue)

• Fundraising & Communications leads

• Data & IT teams

• Data Protection Officer

• External suppliers and agencies

Key tasks and responsibilities

Programme Planning & Governance

• Maintain and update the digital roadmap, ensuring clear sequencing, prioritisation and resourcing.

• Run programme-level governance including reporting cycles, decision logs and RAID management.

• Ensure all workstreams follow a consistent delivery approach with clear ownership and accountability.

Cross‑Team Coordination

• Align Digital, Fundraising, Comms, Data, IT and Field Ops around shared timelines and dependencies.

• Facilitate cross‑functional workshops, planning sessions and retrospectives.

• Ensure teams understand how their work fits into the wider programme and where dependencies sit.

Delivery Assurance

• Track progress across major digital projects, including:

• CRM integrations and data flows — support high‑level requirements, documentation and cross‑team alignment for CRM Phase 2 (and future enhancements), ensuring continuity of knowledge and clear sequencing of work, while the CRM Manager retains platform ownership.

• Clue database development and governance

• Data governance and platform consolidation

• Identify risks early and drive mitigation plans.

• Ensure suppliers deliver to agreed scope, budget and timelines.

Reporting & Insight

• Produce clear, consistent reporting for Directors and Trustees.

• Translate technical updates into accessible, decision‑ready summaries.

• Maintain a single source of truth for programme status and documentation.

Standards & Ways of Working

• Embed consistent processes for planning, change control, documentation and handover.

• Support the Head of Digital in establishing governance frameworks (policy/governance/guidance).

• Ensure teams follow agreed processes for testing, sign‑off and release.

About you

Experience

• Proven track record in managing multi‑workstream digital or technology programmes

• Strong governance, planning and RAID management

• Excellent stakeholder management across technical and non‑technical teams

• Working knowledge of CRM, CMS, data and digital platforms

• Expertise in managing external suppliers

• Experience working within digital transformation environments

Skills and Personal Attributes

• Collaborative and relationship‑driven

• Calm under pressure

• Able to influence without authority

• Highly organised and structured

• Strong communicator

Apply today

Please provide a CV and a covering letter explaining your relevant experience and why you’re interested in this role.

Closing date: Sunday 14th June 2026

We are seeking a Director of Operations to join ERA at a pivotal moment of growth. This is a senior, strategic hire  who will shape how ERA is structured, scaled, and sustained over the long term. In 2026, we are scaling to run two summer fellowships: an ERA:AI fellowship and an AIxBiosecurity fellowship, alongside at least two major conferences and a pipeline of new domain-specific programmes. We want to streamline our operations to match this scale.

Working closely with the Executive Director and Programme Director, you will take ownership of ERA's operational effectiveness, compliance, financial strategy, and team development. You will be the person who translates ERA's ambitious programme vision into the systems, structures, and culture that make it possible and who ensures that as we grow from a small core team to an organisation of 15–20+ people, we do not lose what makes us effective. This includes managing the visa and compliance infrastructure that underpins ERA's international fellowship model.

This is a high-trust, high-autonomy role. You will have real scope to shape the organisation's trajectory, building systems that stick, managing risk proactively, mentoring a growing operations team, and acting as a senior counsel to ERA's leadership. You will also be ERA's operational interface with our Board, including preparing materials, ensuring regulatory compliance, and flagging strategic risks.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Strategy & Scaling

• Set the strategic direction for ERA's operations function, ensuring it evolves alongside organisational growth

• Translate ERA's programme and organisational strategy into coherent operational frameworks and execution plans

• Lead ERA through its next phase of growth, from a small, generalist team to a larger, more structured organisation of 15–20+ staff managing the cultural and structural change this requires

• Design and implement systems, workflows, and processes that scale: robust, clear, and built to last beyond any individual

• Identify structural bottlenecks and scaling risks proactively, resolving them before they become crises

• Strengthen coordination between the operations, programmes, and research teams to ensure internal systems support high-quality external work

Financial Oversight

• Provide senior oversight of ERA's financial strategy, working closely with the (future) Finance Lead on multi-year planning, scenario modelling, and budgeting aligned with ERA's fundraising and growth plans

• Oversee financial reporting, controls, and compliance, maintaining standards appropriate to ERA's scale and funder expectations

• Manage stipend and reimbursement processing, grant financial reporting, and audit-readiness

• Integrate financial planning into organisational design and capacity decisions

Board Relations & Governance

• Prepare materials for Board meetings, ensuring ERA's leadership has clear, accurate information on operational and financial performance

• Ensure ERA meets all relevant legal and regulatory obligations — including charity law, data protection, employment law, and visa compliance

• Flag operational risks, resource constraints, and structural issues that require Board-level decisions

• Support ERA in developing governance structures appropriate to its growing scale and complexity

Team Leadership & Culture

• Lead, develop, and performance-manage ERA's operations team, building functional depth as the organisation grows

• Mentor junior operations staff, supporting their professional growth and expanding their capacity over time

• Help set the tone for ERA's culture and values as the organisation scales — modelling integrity, focus, and care for colleagues

• Coordinate across the senior team, acting as a thought partner and source of counsel for the Executive Director and leadership

Compliance, Risk & HR

• Oversee HR operations including employment contracts, visa and right-to-work compliance, onboarding, and staff policies

• Manage ERA's sponsor licence obligations, maintaining compliance with UKVI requirements and overseeing visa applications for a high volume of international fellows and staff -  a core and recurring operational responsibility given ERA's programme model

• Develop and maintain ERA's risk management frameworks, ensuring risks are identified, owned, and mitigated

• Ensure adherence to all relevant legal, regulatory, and institutional policies across ERA's operations

About You

We are looking for a senior operational leader who combines strategic clarity with a genuine bias for execution. You might be a strong fit if you:

• Have significant experience in operational leadership ideally at director level or equivalent, with responsibility for overall organisational performance across multiple functions

• Have led organisations or teams through periods of significant growth and change including managing the transition from a small, informal team to a structured, scalable organisation

• Think in systems you design processes and structures that work without you, and you take satisfaction in building infrastructure that outlasts any individual

• Are a proactive problem-solver you anticipate issues before they arise, move quickly when they do, and stay calm under pressure

• Have experience managing upwards including working with or preparing materials for a Board of Directors, and flagging risks at the right level of the organisation

• Are a strong people manager and mentor you invest in your team's development, hold people to high standards with care, and build culture through example

• Are excited by ERA's mission, you understand why mitigating catastrophic risks from frontier AI matters and want to build an organisation capable of doing it well

Essential

• Demonstrated experience in a senior operational or director-level role, with broad responsibility across multiple functions

• Financial literacy and oversight experience, including familiarity with budgeting, reporting, and financial controls

• Experience managing compliance across employment law, data protection, and/or charity 

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills able to work effectively with technical researchers, programme teams, and external stakeholders

• Experience managing and mentoring a team

Desirable

• Track record of leading organisational change and scaling operations through periods of growth

• Experience working with a Board of Directors or governance body

• Background in nonprofit, research, or academic environments

• Familiarity with UK employment law and compliance requirements including visa sponsorship management

• Understanding of AI safety, governance, or a related field

Location & Working Arrangements

This role is based in Cambridge, UK. We encourage and expect in-person presence, particularly during ERA's fellowship periods and conferences. Outside of these periods, we offer flexibility around hybrid working.

In exceptional cases, we may consider candidates based overseas, provided they are able to be present in Cambridge during programme delivery.

ERA is able to support visa applications for this role. Eligibility for sponsorship will depend on individual circumstances and the applicable route; we encourage candidates to discuss this with us early in the process.

Benefits

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience 

• Professional development budget of £5,000

• Productivity budget of £2,000 

• Employer pension contribution of 10%

• Four weeks of PTO recommended per year

• Private health insurance including dental and vision

• Flexible and hybrid working outside of programme periods

• A mission-driven, tight-knit team working on one of the most important challenges of our time

• The start date is flexible, and we may be willing to wait for an extended period of time for the best candidate, though we’d prefer successful candidates to start as soon as possible after receiving an offer.

Application Process

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We encourage early applications. Our process typically includes:

• Initial application (CV + short questions)

• Screening call

• Interviews with ERA team

• Paid work trial (two days, remote/in-person) and reference checks

• Employment offer

We recognise that this is a demanding process. We offer compensated work trials, and we will work with candidates to accommodate scheduling constraints.

About Us

The Early Education and Childcare Coalition unites the voices of parents, children, providers, early years professionals and the wider business community, working together for investment and reform of early education and childcare in England.

We believe that we all benefit from a well-functioning early education system and we all have a role to play in ensuring it works for children, parents and the economy.

We are backed by some of the most high-profile campaign and research organisations in the UK. Our members include early years provider membership bodies, parent campaign groups, early childhood experts, trade unions, the business lobby, anti-poverty campaigners and NGOs. Together, we use our collective voice and research to build public and political support for early education and childcare. And it’s worked. Thanks to the dedication of our members, early years is one of the top priorities for the government’s Plan for Change.

But our work isn’t done – we have an ambitious agenda to ‘rescue and reform’ the system, ensuring that:

• Every child can access high-quality education and care that their parents can afford and that will support them to thrive
• Every provider is funded fairly for the places they offer
• Every early years professional is rewarded and recognised for the skilled work they do

This is an exciting time to join the Coalition. We have experienced significant growth in recent years and with early years firmly on the policy agenda, we expect this to continue.

We are now looking to appoint a Deputy Director to help steer that work and further drive the development of the Coalition. You will work closely with the Executive Director (ED) to lead our influencing work at the highest level, strengthening our policy platform, and ensuring we translate evidence into meaningful impact. At the same time, you will play a pivotal role in supporting a talented and experienced team and shape the continued growth of the Coalition as a charitable organisation.

About The Role

• Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week over 5 days. We may consider 4 days per week.
• Duration: Two-year contract, renewed subject to funding.
• Location: Home-working but based in or near London.

· Salary: £62,000 - £64,170 per annum FTE

We are a remote team, with most colleagues based outside London. This role requires regular access to Westminster, so you will need to be based in or within easy reach of London.

We work flexibly and understand the realities of balancing work with caring commitments. We trust you to manage your time but expect that most of your hours are worked within core office hours to fulfil the requirements of the role. To support fluent remote working, we require all staff to work on Thursdays.

This is a dual role, delivering our policy, engagement and public affairs strategy while also supporting the Executive Director to grow the Coalition as an organisation and movement. You will play a central role in shaping the Coalition’s strategy, culture and growth. This is a senior, outward-facing role, suited to someone who can think strategically, build influence at the highest levels, and remain hands-on within a small and ambitious team.

About You

You are a senior public affairs professional with a strong track record of strategic influencing and engagement to shape policy. You bring robust judgement and credibility and are motivated by the opportunity to deliver meaningful change in a high-profile policy area and may have experience on public-service reform.

You are equally comfortable setting direction and delivering through others as you are rolling up your sleeves to respond to fast-moving political developments. You are a confident relationship-builder who can operate effectively at senior levels, while working collaboratively across a diverse coalition.

You should have previous experience of managing functions and teams and working in senior leadership teams. Ideally you will be live to the challenges of working in a small, but high-impact national organisation and have experience of scaling teams and functions.

What You Can Expect To Be Doing

• Executive leadership
  This will include supporting the ED with key senior stakeholder relationships including funders, ministers and policymakers. You will be required to deputise for the ED during periods of leave or when directed to do so. This is a pivotal role which straddles the executive and senior leadership functions. Consequently, you will be expected to make decisions that balance multiple interests and help scale and grow the Coalition as a sustainable organisation.
• Lead the Coalition’s policy and influencing function
  Work with the Senior Leadership Team and Coalition members to turn evidence into clear, credible policy positions and priorities, ensuring members are aligned, informed and able to contribute.
• Develop and deliver a cross-party influencing strategy
  Building on the Coalition’s profile, you will further nurture and maintain relationships with MPs, peers, special advisers, civil servants and key stakeholders, ensuring strong reach across Westminster, local government and the wider policy community.
• Maximise key moments for impact
  Identify and respond to opportunities in the parliamentary and policy cycle to maximise influence, including producing briefings, consultation responses and submissions.
• Oversee policy-related events to support engagement
  Lead activity such as events, roundtables and party conference attendance to strengthen the Coalition’s visibility and impact.
• Align policy, public affairs, research and communications
  Work closely with the Head of Communications and Campaigns, and the Associate Director of Research to ensure a joined-up approach across research, influencing, media and campaigning.
• Represent the Coalition externally
  Act as a senior spokesperson at high-level meetings, events, and in the media where appropriate.
• Strengthen how we measure impact
  Work with the Executive Director to further develop our impact framework, improving how we track, evaluate and communicate influence.
• Lead and develop the team
  Provide support to team members, fostering a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture.

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience of leading a team or working at executive/senior leadership levels where you have managed budgets and had to make decisions related to organisational effectiveness. This should also include demonstrable experience of building and nurturing teams that can deliver an organisational strategy.
• Proven experience leading influencing functions in an advocacy or policy environment and delivering change
• Experience turning research and insight into clear, credible and persuasive policy positions.
• Knowledge of system change approaches, ideally within public service reform or similar
• Knowledge of how Government, Parliament, Whitehall, political parties and the wider policy community operate, and how to navigate them effectively.
• Able to operate confidently in complex, fast-moving and politically sensitive environments, working across party lines with diplomacy.
• Demonstrable experience building and maintaining trusted relationships with politicians, advisers, officials and sector leaders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience producing high-quality briefings and representing organisations externally.
• Experience of supporting fundraising activities either through relationship-building or bid-writing.

Desirable

• Understanding of early education and childcare policy in England and the challenges currently facing the system.
• Experience working in or with coalitions, membership organisations or alliances.
• Proven ability to work flexibly as part of a small, remote team.

The application process

Please apply with a CV and cover letter (no more than two pages) by the listed closing date. No agencies please. We recognise that the use of AI technologies can be useful in reducing the work that goes into job-hunting, however, we kindly request that you use your cover letter to evidence that you have understood the requirements of the role and provide examples of how you can meet the criteria.

The EECC is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We use anonymous recruiting during the application process and we use positive action under section 159 of the Equality Act in relation to disability or race. This means that if we have two candidates of equal merit in our process, we will seek to take forward the disabled or Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic candidate in order to diversify our staff team.

We regret that our small team does not have capacity to provide individual feedback on every application.

Recruitment timeline

• Closing date: 23:30, Thursday 11th June. 
• Notified for interview by: Tuesday 16th June
• Interviews: We expect this to be a two-stage interview process with first interviews held on either 24th or 25th June and second stage interviews arranged an agreed time.

In the event that we don't receive suitable applications, we may extend this deadline and timeline.

Charity Manager

The Noah Jordan Foundation

Location: Cornwall, UK
Salary: £35,000–£40,000 (depending on experience)
Hours: Full-time preferred (part-time may be considered)
Reporting to: Charity Director
Working closely with: Board of Trustees
Additional Requirements: Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends in line with events, campaigns and charity activities, with willingness and ability to travel across the UK as required.

About The Noah Jordan Foundation

The Noah Jordan Foundation is a fast-growing UK children’s charity established in memory of Noah, who died in 2024 from POLG mitochondrial disease, a rare and devastating paediatric mitochondrial disorder which can cause severe neurological deterioration and liver failure in children, and for which there is currently no effective treatment or cure.

Following Noah’s death, his family made him a promise: that his legacy would help change the future for children and families affected by mitochondrial disease.

The Foundation was established to deliver that promise through three charitable objectives:

Medical Research

Funding pioneering medical research to improve clinical management, accelerate the development of effective treatments and ultimately help drive progress towards cures for rare paediatric mitochondrial diseases, including POLG-related mitochondrial disorders.

Raising Awareness

Increasing awareness and understanding of mitochondrial disease amongst healthcare professionals, organisations and the wider public through campaigns, events, education and training.

Supporting Children and Families

Providing practical and emotional support to children and families affected by mitochondrial disease through information, resources, services and financial assistance where possible.

Since launching in September 2024, thanks to our incredible community, the Foundation has grown rapidly, raising more than £400,000 in just over 18 months.

Our Impact

The Foundation has already:

• Fully funded a three-year medical research PhD programme into POLG mitochondrial disease at the Mitochondrial Research Group (MRG) at Newcastle University, under the guidance of one of the UK’s leading Professors of Paediatric Mitochondrial Medicine, who also serves as a Charity Medical Advisor to the Foundation.
• Supported affected children, families and organisations across the UK.
• Developed national corporate partnerships and strategic relationships.
• Built a growing national supporter community and dedicated volunteer network.
• Established a growing national profile across mitochondrial disease awareness, fundraising and advocacy.
• Begun work towards funding further pioneering mitochondrial disease research and delivering long-term charitable impact.

Everything achieved so far has been built through passion, community and an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful change. Whilst we are proud of what has been achieved during our first 18 months, we believe this is only the beginning.

The Foundation is now entering an exciting and important phase of development as we strengthen long-term sustainability, diversify income, grow partnerships and build the organisational capability required to maximise impact for children and families affected by mitochondrial disease across the UK, whilst contributing towards change around the world through research, awareness and support.

We are seeking an exceptional individual to help build upon the momentum already created and shape the Foundation’s continued growth and long-term impact.

The Opportunity

This is an opportunity to help build a nationally recognised charity at an exciting and formative stage of its journey.

The Noah Jordan Foundation is building towards becoming a nationally recognised force for change within paediatric mitochondrial disease research, awareness and family support.

As the Foundation’s first full-time employee, the Charity Manager will play a key role in shaping the future culture, structure and direction of the organisation.

Reporting directly to the Charity Director and working closely with the Board of Trustees, you will help develop organisational strategy, grow income, strengthen operations, build partnerships and support the long-term sustainability of the Foundation.

The Charity Manager will act as the Foundation’s operational and fundraising lead, helping drive continued growth and maximise impact for children and families affected by mitochondrial disease.

This role requires someone equally comfortable developing strategy, building partnerships and driving income growth, whilst also rolling their sleeves up and supporting practical delivery where required.

One day may involve developing fundraising strategy, corporate relationships or marketing initiatives. Another may involve supporting volunteers, delivering events or solving operational challenges.

From partnerships, fundraising strategy and marketing to events, administration and operational support, the successful candidate will need to be comfortable contributing wherever required.

This role will suit someone ambitious, adaptable and proactive who thrives within fast-moving environments and enjoys building meaningful impact from the ground up.

For the right person, this is a rare opportunity to help shape a growing charity and leave a lasting legacy.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising and Income Growth

• Lead and grow fundraising activity across the Foundation.
• Develop and manage corporate partnerships and sponsorship opportunities.
• Identify and secure trusts, grants and major donor funding.
• Support regular giving and community fundraising growth.
• Help develop long-term fundraising strategy and income diversification.
• Build and nurture relationships with donors, businesses, trusts and strategic partners.
• Develop proposals and pitches for supporters, businesses and stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities and support sustainable income growth.
• Strengthen supporter stewardship and donor relationships.
• Support fundraising campaigns and flagship charity initiatives.

Operations and Organisational Development

• Help build systems, processes and operational structures as the charity grows.
• Support governance, compliance and reporting requirements.
• Develop reporting frameworks and performance measures to support Trustee oversight and organisational growth.
• Support budget monitoring and financial administration alongside Trustees.
• Lead, support and help develop the Foundation’s dedicated volunteer network, helping build a positive, engaged and high-performing volunteer culture.
• Support CRM systems and fundraising pipeline management.
• Help develop internal processes to support sustainable long-term growth.
• Undertake additional responsibilities commensurate with the role where required.

Communications, Marketing and External Engagement

• Support planning and delivery of campaigns, events and public engagement activity.
• Lead marketing, communications and storytelling activity to strengthen awareness, supporter engagement and fundraising.
• Help develop campaigns that increase awareness and understanding of mitochondrial disease and strengthen the Foundation’s profile.
• Support content development across digital platforms and supporter communications.
• Represent the Foundation externally with professionalism, warmth and passion.
• Build and strengthen relationships with supporters, businesses and stakeholders.
• Represent the needs of affected children and families and help drive innovation, awareness and positive change.
• Work closely with the Charity Director on strategic development and future growth.

About You

We are seeking someone with:

• Approximately 5–10 years’ experience within fundraising, charity development, partnerships or organisational growth.
• A proven ability to build relationships and generate income.
• Strong communication, influencing and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong relationship-building and partnership development skills.
• Confidence developing proposals, presenting ideas and pitching to supporters, businesses and stakeholders.
• The ability to balance strategic thinking with practical delivery.
• A proactive, adaptable and solutions-focused mindset.
• A willingness to learn, develop and grow alongside a rapidly evolving organisation.
• A willingness to be hands-on and contribute wherever needed.
• Strong storytelling and communication skills, with an understanding of how marketing and communications drive awareness, fundraising and supporter engagement.
• Empathy, emotional intelligence and professionalism.
• A willingness to travel and support events across the UK.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends.
• A full UK driving licence and access to transport.
• A genuine passion for meaningful work, long-term impact and improving outcomes for children and families affected by mitochondrial disease.
• Ambition, resilience and commitment to creating lasting impact.

We would particularly welcome applicants with experience in corporate partnerships, fundraising strategy, charity growth and development, community engagement, marketing and communications, events and campaigns, trusts and foundations, and organisational development and scaling.

We recognise exceptional candidates may not meet every element of the criteria listed above. If you are passionate about our mission, bring transferable experience and believe you could make a meaningful contribution to our future, we would encourage you to apply.

We understand that the right person may come from either the charity sector or a related professional background with transferable experience in partnerships, fundraising, business development, communications, marketing or organisational growth.

Experience working within a growing charity or purpose-led organisation would be highly advantageous.

Why Join Us?

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Help shape the future of a fast-growing children’s charity.
• Work closely with an ambitious and passionate leadership team.
• Build meaningful partnerships and projects with national impact.
• Directly contribute towards advancing pioneering mitochondrial disease research, raising awareness and supporting affected children and families.
• Be part of a community determined to create lasting change.
• Help build a charity designed to create lasting impact for generations to come.

We couldn't save Noah, but together, we can change what happens next.

The extinction of Mito, one stomp at a time.

We are looking for an entrepreneurial leader to relaunch and build the next phase of the UK Democracy Network: a national network that helps organisations working to strengthen democracy across the UK connect, collaborate and coordinate more effectively.

This is a rare opportunity to shape a growing national network. The Network already has strong foundations, sector backing, and three years of core funding secured. The next step is building it into an independent, trusted and influential organisation that helps the democracy sector work together more effectively.

About the Network

The Democracy Network exists to help make collaboration across the democracy sector more effective. It connects organisations, practitioners and professionals across the UK democracy ecosystem, helping to reduce duplication, strengthen relationships, share intelligence, and enable more coordinated collective action.

About the host organisations

The Network is jointly incubated by two organisations with deep roots in UK civic tech, democratic education, and sector-wide network building:

The Politics Project supports young people to use their voice by giving them access to brilliant democratic education. They work with young people, teachers, youth practitioners and politicians to help them learn about, teach and actively participate in democracy. The Politics Project also leads the Democracy Classroom Network, a sister network of over 100 organisations across the democracy, education and youth sectors which support over 3,500 teachers and youth practitioners to engage young people in democracy.

Democracy Club produces the most comprehensive election data in the UK. Established in 2010 and registered as a Community Interest Company in 2015, it runs the national polling station finder Where Do I Vote and candidate lookup service Who Can I Vote For, serving election information to millions of UK voters each year and supplying data to the Electoral Commission. Democracy Club brings a mailing list of 35,000, an active community of 1,200 volunteer contributors collaborating on election information, and strong digital and data expertise to the Network.

Our vision for the Network

Over the last year, we have carried out extensive consultation with members of the UK Democracy Network, the Network’s Steering Group and funders. Through this process, we have developed a new vision for the Network that is designed to reflect and support the diversity of the democracy sector, and the wide range of approaches, perspectives and organisations within it.

Our model is built around a series of smaller thematic, geographic and demographic-based “hubs” within the wider Network. These hubs will create spaces for organisations and individuals working on particular issues, in particular places, or with specific communities to collaborate more effectively, while remaining connected to the wider democracy ecosystem.

Alongside this, the Network will support stronger coordination and information sharing across the sector through activities such as a monthly bulletin, shared events, an annual conference and practical tools and databases that help partners collaborate more effectively.

Importantly, we want to build on and strengthen the excellent work that already exists across the democracy landscape, rather than duplicate it. Over time, we also hope the Network can help incubate and support new hubs and collaborations around emerging issues and opportunities within the democracy sector.

About the role

The Network will be delivered by a small core team: a Network Director (this role), a Network Manager (in post), and a Network Coordinator (to be recruited).

Our medium-term ambition is for the Network to become an independent organisation in its own right. We see this role as central to shaping that transition, with the successful candidate expected to lead the Network into its next phase as an independent organisation over the course of the grant period. 

Key responsibilities

The Network Director provides overall leadership of the Network and is responsible for its long-term sustainability and strategic direction. 

Specifically: 

• Strategic leadership. Set strategic direction for the Network in consultation with members, hosts and the Steering Group / Board.

• Represent the Network. In networking and fundraising events, high-level roundtables and in high-profile relationships with government, funders, media and sector leaders.

• Lead on fundraising. Develop relationships with major funders, alongside Harriet Andrews at The Politics Project, building a diversified, sustainable funding base.

• Oversee the Network's transition to an independent legal structure. Support the establishment of the Board, working with Harriet Andrews and Sym Roe to recruit members with a mix of professional expertise and elected network representatives.

• Build an inclusive, supportive team culture. Line manage the Network Manager and Network Coordinator.

• Oversee monitoring and evaluation. Lead reporting to funders, and support the annual review process with the team and Steering Group / Board.

Person specification

We are looking for a values-driven, experienced, strategic leader. They will have strong people and financial management skills, and the ability to build trusted relationships across the democracy sector. They will be an excellent communicator, comfortable leading through complexity and change, and motivated by a commitment to strengthening UK democracy. 

The postholder will be expected to work in-office two days a week and attend regular in-person engagements in London.

Benefits

• 33 days’ annual leave pro rata, including Bank Holidays (with three days off between Christmas and New Year).

• 4% employer pension contribution.

• 2 working days / 15 hours of volunteer leave a year.

• Cycle to Work scheme.

Further information about the role and job specification can be found in the Candidate Recruitment Pack.

Equity, diversity and inclusion

The UK democracy sector has historically been less diverse than the country it serves, and we want to help change that, starting with how we recruit. We particularly welcome applications from people who are underrepresented in democracy sector leadership, including people of colour, disabled people and people from working-class backgrounds.

How to apply

Please apply via charity job with the following:

• Your CV (no more than two pages).

• A supporting statement of no more than 500 words, setting out how your experience, skills and knowledge meet the person specification and why you are drawn to this role.

The closing date is 11.30pm, Sunday 14th June 2026.

We will shortlist on the basis of the supporting statement against the person specification.

Charity People are delighted to be partnering with The Passage to recruit a Head of Development to join their senior management team.

The Passage is a leading London homelessness charity, supporting people experiencing or at risk of homelessness to transform their lives. Their vision is of a society where homelessness no longer exists and everyone has a place to call home. The Passage has built a reputation for high-quality services and impactful fundraising, with voluntary income exceeding £5m in recent years.

This is a rare opportunity to step into a strategic leadership role at a pivotal moment, shaping and growing a diverse high-value fundraising portfolio while leading and developing an ambitious team.

Head of Development

Employment status: Permanent
Working pattern: Full time
Salary: £56,960
Location: Office based (central London) with some flexible working from home
Benefits: 35 Days annual leave including bank holiday

About the Role

This is a key senior position, responsible for leading and growing The Passage's high-value income streams, including corporate partnerships, philanthropy (major donors), trusts & foundations, and commercial/trading activity.

Reporting to the Director of Income Generation and Communications, you'll lead a committed and talented team to deliver sustainable income growth, while ensuring first-class stewardship is provided across all touchpoints.

You'll play a central role in developing and delivering strategy, driving new business, and building long-term, high-value relationships with donors and partners. As part of the Senior Management Group, you'll also contribute to organisational leadership and strategic direction.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver a high-value income strategy across corporate, philanthropy, trusts and commercial streams
• Drive new business, identifying and securing six-figure+ partnerships and donations
• Personally manage a portfolio of major donors and senior corporate relationships
• Oversee and grow commercial and trading opportunities, ensuring strong performance and sustainability
• Lead, coach, and develop the Development team to achieve ambitious income targets
• Work collaboratively across teams to develop compelling propositions, proposals, and donor journeys
• Monitor performance, budgets, and pipelines to ensure delivery against KPIs and forecasts
• Represent The Passage externally, acting as an ambassador with senior stakeholders and partners

About You

We're looking for a strategic, relationship-driven leader with a strong track record in high-value fundraising and income generation.

You will bring:

• Proven success in developing and delivering high-value fundraising strategies
• A track record of securing £100k+ gifts and partnerships
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams
• Strong expertise across corporate partnerships, major donors, and/or trusts
• Commercial awareness, with experience or interest in trading and income diversification
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the confidence to engage senior stakeholders
• Strong planning, budgeting, and pipeline management skills
• A collaborative and values-driven leadership style

Most importantly, you'll be motivated by The Passage's mission and committed to driving income that creates lasting impact for people experiencing homelessness.

Why This Role?

This is an outstanding opportunity to shape the future of income generation at one of London's most respected homelessness charities.

You'll join at an exciting point of growth, with the autonomy to innovate, the support of a strong leadership team, and the chance to make a tangible difference through strategic, high-value fundraising.

Application Details

Closing date: Wednesday 17th June, 9:00am
Interviews: 25^th/26^th June

If this role inspires you, please send your latest CV to Kevin Croasdale at Charity People () and request a job application.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

We are seeking an Assistant Director – Digital and Innovation to play a central role in shaping how Villiers Park delivers and develops its programmes at a pivotal point in the implementation of our 2025-30 strategy. This role represents an exciting opportunity to lead on the development of our digital education offer and innovation work, ensuring it enhances both the reach and depth of our programmes for young people across the UK.

Villiers Park is a national social mobility charity with a strong track record of delivering impactful programmes that support young people from under-represented backgrounds to fulfil their potential. As we continue to grow, digital provision and innovation are increasingly important in enabling us to reach more students, and to do so in engaging and inclusive ways.

Digital learning and programme innovation will be critical to the next phase in our strategy, building on the foundations we have already established, including the development of our learning platform and programme model. Alongside this, Leadership Challenge continues to expand as a key national outreach and social action programme, and this role will be instrumental in ensuring its quality and impact.

Our work is possible because of a brilliant team of staff, trustees and volunteers and committed funders and partners who believe in what we do and want to make the greatest possible difference. The Assistant Director – Digital and Innovation will work closely with colleagues across programmes, partnerships, communications and fundraising, as well as external partners, to ensure our digital and programme offer is coherent, forward-thinking and aligned with our mission.

This is a unique opportunity to combine strategic leadership with practical delivery, helping to translate ambition into impact for the young people we serve.

Sarah Chick

Head of Programmes 

Job purpose

The Assistant Director - Digital and Innovation leads the development, implementation and ongoing improvement of Villiers Park’s digital education provision. This includes the design and delivery of online learning experiences, the development of digital and physical resources for use across programmes, and ensuring that digital delivery is accessible, safeguarded and aligned with the organisation’s mission.

The role also provides strategic and operational leadership for Leadership Challenge, Villiers Park’s national student outreach and social action programme. This includes programme design, partner engagement, monitoring and evaluation, and ensuring the programme is effectively resourced and financially sustainable.

Working closely with the Head of Programmes, Senior Leadership Team (SLT), Communications and Fundraising teams, and external partners, the postholder supports the development of digital innovation, programme resourcing and Leadership Challenge activity to enhance reach, impact and quality. 

Key responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership for the development, implementation and continuous improvement of Villiers Park’s digital education provision, ensuring alignment with our Theory of Change, priorities and values
• Lead the design and evolution of high-quality digital learning experiences, content and pathways for students, schools, parents/carers and volunteers
• Oversee the adoption and integration of digital platforms and tools, ensuring accessibility, safeguarding, GDPR compliance and scalability
• Drive innovation in digital delivery by monitoring sector trends and embedding relevant approaches to enhance reach and impact
• Ensure digital provision complements and strengthens face-to-face delivery across programmes, working closely with the Head of Programmes and Assistant Directors
• Provide strategic oversight of the use of AI within programmes, ensuring its application enhances learning experiences while maintaining safeguarding and ethical standards
• Provide strategic oversight of the development and ongoing review of physical resources, ensuring consistency, quality and alignment across programmes
• Ensure all resources are inclusive, engaging, curriculum-aligned and reflect organisational standards and brand expectations
• Maintain a coherent approach to resource development, ensuring materials support programme delivery and learning outcomes effectively
• Lead the strategic and operational development of the Leadership Challenge programme, ensuring it is high-quality, sustainable and aligned with organisational priorities
• In collaboration with the Senior Leadership Team, develop and strengthen partnerships with charities, corporates and universities to support programme growth and delivery
• Oversee the development of an appropriate recognition or award framework for participants
• Establish and oversee robust quality assurance and evaluation processes for digital and physical content and delivery
• As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, contribute to strategic planning, budgeting and risk management, and provide quarterly updates to the Board of Trustees.
• Work collaboratively with Fundraising and Communications teams to support income generation, bid development and programme promotion

This list is not exhaustive, and the post-holder will be required to undertake other tasks relevant to the role and within their capability.

Skills and experience:

• Significant leadership experience in education, youth or social mobility sectors
• Knowledge of school and college curricula and the needs of learners aged 13–19
• Proven experience in designing and/or delivering digital learning
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, digital accessibility standards and inclusive design
• Experience developing high‑quality educational resources (digital and physical)
• Ability to lead programmes, manage projects and deliver to deadlines
• Ability to build relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders to further organisational aims and fundraising objectives

Personal attributes:

• A genuine commitment to and care for social mobility and young people’s futures
• Organised and proactive, effectively, prioritising workload and delivering outcomes independently
• Strategic and forward-thinking, with an ability to see the bigger picture
• Collaborative and able to work effectively with colleagues, partners and stakeholders across different functions
• Willingness to learn and develop your own practice and experience

Additional Information:

• The postholder will be required to travel regularly to schools, events and partner organisations
• An enhanced DBS check will be required
• The postholder will hold responsibility to be one of the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads
• The postholder will require a full UK driving licence
• Evening work and overnight stays may be required
• Hybrid – location local to our Cambridge office or near to one of our Regional Hubs

Employee Benefits

• 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rated) and additional leave over Christmas.
• A dedicated wellbeing day for you to take at any time and three days (pro-rated) paid leave for volunteering or study each year.
• Training and professional development, including termly staff development days.
• Support from our wellbeing working group and access to an employee assistance programme.
• Opportunity to join working groups with other colleagues from across the organisation as well as wider networks such as the Fair Education Alliance.
• Flexibility in working hours.
• Additional sick pay and compassionate leave policies. 

Safeguarding

Villiers Park Educational Trust is committed to safeguarding and to providing a safe and supportive environment, which secures the well-being and best outcomes for the young people with whom we work.

Safeguarding is embedded in all aspects of Villiers Park's work and integral to the commitment we make to our schools, partners and the young people and communities we serve and work with. All employees and volunteers are expected to share this commitment by adhering to our organisational safeguarding procedures, attending regular in-house training and keeping up to date with developments in policies and legislation.

All employees and volunteers will also agree to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Services check and successfully complete our mandatory online training courses including NSPCC Safeguarding in Schools and PREVENT training.