Director of impact and innovation jobs in blackrock, county dublin

About UKCF

At UK Community Foundations (UKCF), we put inclusivity at the forefront of all we do, we put relationships first and we are ambitious for our members and the communities they serve.

Everyone should have the opportunity to have a fulfilling life and to feel they belong. This can’t be mandated by government, or done to people, only with them. Change needs to be driven by people who understand the local situation and our support makes this possible.

UKCF is a national network of community foundations based all over the UK. Community foundations connect philanthropic people with local causes that matter to them. They are charitable organisations focused on supporting a defined geographical area by leveraging funds to support community needs and local organisations making a difference. As well as supporting our members, at UKCF we explore social challenges, we provide national funding and we work with those who have the solutions to improve lives.

Benefits of working at UKCF include 30 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays, up to two days paid leave for volunteer days, season ticket loans available, enhanced pension and a flexible working plan. As a disability confident employer, we encourage applications irrespective of your age, disability, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion and belief, gender reassignment, sex or sexual orientation.

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity to join the senior leadership team at a time of growth, ambition and innovation. We are looking for a strategic, expert and collaborative Director of Partnerships and Insight to help us build and deliver impactful national partnerships that bring real, measurable benefits to communities across the UK.

You will be responsible for the development, delivery, and evaluation of high-value, strategic partnerships—whether with government departments (such as DCMS), major trusts and foundations (like the Henry Smith Charity), corporate partners, or other longstanding partners (such as the National Emergencies Trust).

You’ll work closely with community foundations to shape strong proposals and lead the end-to-end implementation of partnerships and programmes.

You’ll also play a key role in helping UKCF and the wider network become more insight-led and data-driven—strengthening our approach to programme design, learning, and impact evaluation. You’ll work closely with our Digital Transformation team to embed best practice in the use of data and evidence.

This role requires exceptional relationship-building skills, confidence working at a national level, and the ability to develop and articulate clear theories of change and evaluation frameworks. Subject expertise in areas such as philanthropy, AI, social cohesion, neighbourhood health or climate is desirable.

You will report to the CEO and be a key member of the Senior Management Team.

Key responsibilities

Strategic partnerships development

You will lead the identification, development, and stewardship of national strategic partnerships that align with UKCF’s mission and deliver meaningful outcomes for our partners and for communities across the UK.

This includes initiating and negotiating collaborations with government departments, large foundations, businesses, and sector partners. Working closely with community foundations across the country, you will co-create proposals and programme designs that draw on local expertise and deliver impact at scale.

From inception to evaluation, you will oversee the full partnership lifecycle, ensuring robust governance, clear communication, and high-quality delivery throughout.

Insight and impact

A central part of the role is to embed a strong culture of learning and evidence across UKCF’s national partnerships. You will shape and implement theories of change and robust evaluation frameworks, working with partners and community foundations to ensure that programme outcomes are clearly defined, measured, and communicated.

You will collaborate with the Digital Transformation team to improve our use of data and insight, driving forward a more evidence-led approach to programme design and influencing. Through this work, you will help generate actionable insights that inform future partnerships and strengthen our case for support with funders and policymakers.

Leadership and collaboration

You will manage our Programmes Officer, with responsibility for supporting their professional development. You will work closely with the Chief Executive to develop plans for growing the team, grounded in the need to ensure financial sustainability.

As a member of the Senior Management Team, you will play a key role in strategic decision-making and organisational development. You will provide visible leadership across UKCF, championing collaboration and innovation internally and externally.

You will cultivate strong, trusting relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including community foundation leaders, funders, and public sector partners. Representing UKCF at high-level events and forums, you will contribute thought leadership on place-based philanthropy and community-led change. In all your work, you will model inclusive leadership and ensure our partnerships reflect our values and commitment to equity and social justice.

Who we’re looking for:

We’re seeking a dynamic and experienced leader who thrives in collaborative environments and is motivated by the power of local action to drive national impact. You’ll combine deep subject knowledge with the ability to build coalitions and bring new ideas to life.

You don’t need to meet every single criterion to apply—we are keen to hear from people with a passion for this work and the ability to grow with the role.

See the full job description for more detail.

SolarAid is recruiting for a Director of Finance & Organisational Effectiveness to lead our finance function and enhance operational excellence across our charity and social enterprise group. The position is full-time, based in the UK, with hybrid working arrangements. The salary offered is £60,000 to £68,000 depending on experience.

As a key strategic partner to the CEO and a core member of the Senior Management Team, you’ll play a crucial role in shaping the direction and performance of SolarAid and our social enterprise SunnyMoney. This role oversees finance, planning, IT, facilities, HR liaison, policy, and governance – ensuring strong systems and structures support our mission to achieve 100% energy access for the hardest to reach communities across Sub-Saharan Africa,

We’re looking for a qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA, or CIPFA) with senior-level charity finance experience, excellent analytical and leadership skills, and a strong track record in organisational operations and governance.

Applications without a cover letter will not be considered for the role.

Closing Date for Applications: May 21st, 2025

About WasteAid

WasteAid is an international NGO working in low and middle-income countries to implement environmental and economic empowerment programmes. We focus on supporting green businesses and grassroots entrepreneurs to improve livelihoods, promote circular economy innovation, and contribute to a cleaner, healthier future for all. Our work primarily addresses waste pollution in areas without formal waste management systems.

With programmes currently in The Gambia, India, South Africa, and Uganda, we're making a significant impact with over 1.3 million people positively affected by our work.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of Programmes to provide strategic management of our programme portfolio during an exciting phase of our organisation's evolution. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a growing international development organisation working at the nexus of environmental and development programming.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement WasteAid's programme strategy
• Lead programme development, creating pathways to scale our impact
• Ensure high-quality delivery and impact measurement across all projects
• Manage the programmes team and budget effectively
• Build relationships with key stakeholders and represent WasteAid externally

What We're Looking For

We seek a candidate with experience in international development programming, ideally with knowledge of environmental management and circular economy approaches. You should have proven ability to design and manage complex programmes, work with funders, and lead remote teams.

Package

• Salary: Circa £65K depending on experience
• Location: Home-based in UK or Europe with approximately 25% international travel + 15% UK travel
• Reports to: Chief Executive

WasteAid's vision is a world where waste causes no harm, and people are empowered to recover its value.

Location: Either in one of our global offices (Bristol or London - UK, Madagascar, Belize, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Kenya, Senegal) or home-based within countries where Blue Ventures has administrative capacity (Tanzania) and the United States.

Closing date for applications: 23 May 2025

Start date: As soon as possible 

Contract duration: Permanent

Remuneration: Salaries are gross per annum and will be in line with national salary grades and experience; circa £79,205 - £94, 056 (UK); circa IDR 819,656,485 - IDR 1,213,091,598 (Indonesia); circa KES 8,200,933 - KES 12,137,381 (Kenya); circa TZS 12,137,381 - TZS 140,768,002 (Tanzania); circa XOF 38,749,823 - XOF 57,349,738 (Senegal); circa USD 43,048 - USD 63,711 (Timor-Leste); circa BZD 105,246- BZD 136,167 (Belize); circa MGA 200,388,967 - MGA 361,582,361 (net per annum; only applicable in Madagascar).

We rebuild tropical fisheries with coastal communities.

Blue Ventures is a marine conservation organisation that puts people first. We support coastal fishers in remote and rural communities to rebuild fisheries, restore ocean life and build lasting pathways to prosperity. Our work began two decades ago in Madagascar’s remote coastal communities and is growing globally. 

Across a dozen countries, we’re partnering with traditional fishers and community organisations to design, scale, strengthen and sustain fisheries management and conservation at the community level. We bring partners together in networks to advocate for reform and share tools and best practices to support fishing communities across the globe. 

Summary job description

The Director of Community Training and Learning will play a critical leadership role in shaping the technical foundations of Blue Ventures’ global training efforts. As the strategic lead on knowledge content, this role will oversee the development of frameworks, guidance documents, and curriculum materials that form the backbone of Blue Ventures’ training and capacity building across key programme pillars: Community-Based Fisheries Management, Secure Rights, Food Security, and Financial Inclusion.

Reporting to the Chief Technical Officer, the Director will manage a team of subject matter experts, ensuring that their work is strategically aligned, technically robust, and rooted in the lived experience of the communities we serve. This role is responsible for creating the substantive content and technical learning outcomes transformed by the Training and Learning team into engaging, accessible training modules for our digital learning platform.

The Director of Community Training and Learning will bring deep expertise in community fisheries, strong leadership of multidisciplinary technical teams, and the ability to think strategically about how interconnected programme themes contribute to community-led resource management and resilience. This is key to ensuring that Blue Ventures’ training content reflects global best practices, is grounded in real-world community experience, and supports sustainable, rights-based approaches to marine resource management.

For the full job description, please download the attached. 

To apply, please click on 'Redirect to recruiter' and apply via the Blue Ventures careers page. 

Are you looking for a once-in-a-career opportunity to lead bold transformation within one of the most high-performing fundraising teams in the sector?
 

Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH) are hiring for a Deputy Director of Fundraising Planning & Performance to join us for an 18 month fixed term contract. Over the next 18 months, you will  support  our business-critical enabling teams to lay strong foundations for the long-term growth across our fundraising portfolio. You will play a central role in ensuring GOSH Charity achieves its ambitious goals, including one of the biggest capital appeals in its history, helping to fund vital research, pioneering treatments, and life-changing care for seriously ill children. 
 

This is a chance to make a real impact for families who need it most. 
 

Salary
 

The salary for this position is £86,800 per annum and we operate a hybrid working policy of a minimum of 2 days per week in the office. 
 

In line with our EDI strategy and Total Reward policy, we calculate our salaries based on benchmarking data across the charity sector. To ensure fairness for existing staff and new joiners, we do not offer salaries above the advertised rate. 

Key Responsibilities

You will take on a broad role leading our three centralised teams across the fundraising directorate – Fundraising Operations & Standards, Innovation and Fundraising Strategy & Integration. Supporting expert Heads of teams, your role will have 9 key pillars:
 

Strategic Leadership – Taking a central role in our Fundraising Leadership Team, working with the Director of fundraising to deliver the fundraising strategy.
 

Data Focus – Strengthening our approach to data to enhance performance and deliver growth.
 

Driving Innovation – Developing and delivering a robust pipeline of fundraising products and innovations. 
 

Supporter Engagement – Optimising supporter journeys and developing a future roadmap.
 

Compliance and Standards – Providing senior leadership on compliance and fundraising operations. 
 

Team Leadership and Development – Developing and leading a high performing team. 
 

Future Resilient Structures and Skills – Collaborating across the organisation to implement future proofed structures and resources, as well as driving automation. 
 

Senior Leadership Support – Enhancing collaboration and working alongside fellow Deputy Directors.
 

Performance Monitoring and Reporting – Delivering clear updates and actionable insights. 
 

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Proven track record in senior leadership, with experience/understanding across strategy development, innovation, and supporter/customer engagement. 
• Previous success in delivering a cultural shift towards innovation and embedding a test and learn approach within an organisation. 
• Significant experience in analytics, insight development, and data-led decision-making to inform strategic direction and delivery. 
• Strong people leadership experience, inspiring and supporting large teams to deliver ambitious goals.
• Exceptional relationship building and networking skills. 
• Able to plan and present strategies to senior leadership. 
• Strong decision making and problem-solving skills. 
• Exceptional strategic planning and decision-making skills, with a data-driven approach. 
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams to deliver integrated strategies and plans.

Interviews
1st stage virtual on 5th and 6th June
2nd stage in person 16th June 

We are looking for a dynamic and technically skilled Head of Evaluation to design and deliver high-quality evaluation programmes that generate actionable evidence to improve youth employment outcomes in England. 

You will work closely with the Director of Impact and Evidence and Deputy Director of Evidence and Evaluation to lead a team of Evidence and Evaluation Managers.

Reporting to the Deputy Director of Evidence and Evaluation, you will be responsible for ensuring high-quality delivery of a portfolio of complex impact evaluations.

• You will manage a team of Evaluation Managers, supporting their development while delivering projects that inform Youth Futures’ strategic goals.
• You will design and manage complex programmes of evidence generation to understand what works to support young people into good work. These programmes will focus on impact evaluations and so you will have an in-depth understanding of quantitative impact evaluations, especially Randomised Controlled Trials and quasi-experimental designs.
• You will have a sound understanding of youth employment and/or skills and design evidence-generating projects in a complex field that includes partners from national and devolved government, the third sector and employers.

This role can be based at any of our hubs located in Birmingham, Leeds or London. We currently operate a hybrid model of two-days per week in the office and three-days from home.

For more information and a full job description, please visit our website.

King’s College, Cambridge
Director of Development

Shape the Future of a World-Renowned Institution.

Salary: Starting salary in the region of £90,000 with scope to go beyond for a leading professional with outstanding experience and track record. 
Location: Cambridge, UK

King’s College, Cambridge, founded in 1441 by Henry VI and known worldwide for its historic Chapel and Choir, is seeking a visionary Director of Development to lead its philanthropic fundraising and help shape its future.

This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the world’s most renowned academic institutions at a transformative moment in its history. Using the momentum of the visionary £100 million King’s Campaign, the new Director will develop and deliver an exciting, multi-year fundraising strategy that supports the College’s most ambitious goals - expanding access and student support, enhancing research capacity and preserving our architectural heritage.

You will bring a proven track record in major gifts fundraising, inspirational leadership and experience of cultivating deep, lasting relationships. A key member of the leadership team, you’ll engage a passionate global alumni network and forge new partnerships with individuals and organisations aligned with the College’s commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and innovation.

King’s is a community that values independent thinking, creativity, and social impact. Among our alumni are Nobel laureates, world-changing scholars, and trailblazers. At its heart, the College remains deeply committed to ensuring that the brightest students - regardless of background - can thrive.

As Director of Development, you will be elected to a Fellowship of the College, joining a vibrant, diverse and dynamic community. This is more than a job - it is a chance to have a lasting impact on an institution where education and innovation have shaped the world for over five centuries.

King’s College, Cambridge is partnering with Erin Hall-Westfall and Joanna Logan of Constellate Global Talent on this search.

Closing date: Midnight on Sunday, 25 May.
First round interviews are expected to be held w/c 16 June, with second round interviews the w/c 23 June.

Interested?

The candidate pack and details to contact us for a confidential discussion are attached. 

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter via CharityJob or Institute of Fundraising no later than Midnight on Sunday, 25 May. 

Please do not apply via the King’s College website. No agencies please.

Role Summary

We are seeking a dynamic and mission-driven Executive Director to lead ProVeg UK in this next phase of growth and impact. This role combines strategic leadership with high-level stakeholder engagement, fundraising, and organisational development. The ideal candidate brings entrepreneurial energy, exceptional communication skills, strong credentials in the UK NGO sector, and a passion for food systems transformation.

ProVeg UK has a very strong track record in influencing public food through its School Plates programme, which has, to date, swapped over 47m meals from meat-based to plant-based or veggie. We work in over 8,000 schools across the UK, reaching over 1.3 million children every day. We are keen to expand this excellent work to a wider range of stakeholders, including hospitals (a new manager has just been recruited to develop a Hospital Plates pilot), policymakers, the corporate sector and media. 

The Executive Director will be at the forefront of this expansion, while also ensuring the continued success of our existing programmes. As such, this is a high-impact role, offering the opportunity to be a catalyst for positive change in the UK’s plant-based and alternative protein movement — helping to shape a more sustainable future.
 

Job Details

Reports to: Deputy CEO
Country: UK
Location: Greater London Area (within 1.5 hours by train)
Hours: Full-time (35 h/week)
Salary: £55-60k (plus London allowance of £3k, if applicable)
Start date: ideally ASAP
 

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and deliver ProVeg UK’s long-term strategy aligned with ProVeg International’s mission
• Lead the design and scaling of UK-based programmes that create measurable impact and reflect local opportunities and needs
• Represent the organisation to increase ProVeg’s visibility and influence.
• Sit as a member of the ProVeg C.I.C. Board.

Stakeholder Engagement & Fundraising

• Cultivate and strengthen relationships with strategic partners including food companies, government agencies, foundations, and major donors
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities, including government tenders and philanthropic partnerships, with a strong focus on climate and health-related funding
• Act as a public thought leader and spokesperson in the UK for food systems transformation in line with ProVeg International’s strategy
• Manage governance and engagement with the UK board

Team & Organisational Development

• Lead and support our fantastic, high-performing UK team and foster a culture of collaboration, inclusion, impact and evaluation
• Provide regular coaching and feedback, ensuring clear objectives, performance development, and providing recognition
• Foster innovation, improvement and a growth mindset in the team, and identify new opportunities to grow our UK work
• Collaborate with ProVeg International teams and other ProVeg countries on shared programmes and goals

Financial Management & Reporting

• Develop and oversee the UK annual budget, ensuring financial sustainability and strategic resource allocation
• Ensure compliance with UK regulations, reporting requirements, and ProVeg International policies
• Provide timely and transparent reporting to the Deputy CEO, International team, and Board

Qualifications

Essential

• Proven leadership experience (5+ years at deputy- or C-level)  in a UK-based NGO or mission-driven organisation, ideally in food, climate, or health sectors
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and partnership building, especially with foundations, governments, or climate philanthropies
• Strong entrepreneurial mindset and ability to develop and execute impactful strategies
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with experience speaking to media and government bodies, at public events, and with internal stakeholders of all levels (Board, Senior Leadership Team, Staff and Volunteers)
• Deep understanding of UK funding landscape, policy environment, and relevant NGOs 
• Experience leading diverse and remote teams, with a collaborative and empowering leadership style
• Commitment to ProVeg’s mission and values, and strong alignment with our strategic goals
• Experience working with cross-functional and international teams
• Committed to following a plant-based lifestyle
• Knowledge of good governance practice
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to effectively fulfil the role of Director

Desirable

• Existing network of funders, policymakers, or influencers relevant to food systems or climate in the UK
• Postgraduate degree in a relevant field (e.g. in public policy, environmental studies, food systems, business, or similar)
• Familiarity with effective altruism principles and evidence-based programme design
• Understanding of plant-based innovation, sustainable diets, or alternative proteins

Benefits of working with us

• Generous annual leave entitlement - 25 days per year, with an additional day granted at the start of each calendar up to a maximum of 30 days (plus bank holidays)
• A strong organisational focus on personal development, with a designated training budget.
• Provision of a work laptop.
• Flexible, trust-based working arrangements and home-office arrangements.
• Career development support
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption pay
• Compassionate animal companion leave
• Employee Assistance Programme including counselling
• Access to 24/7 virtual GP Service
• Mindfulness support via a free Headspace account for you and up to 5 friends or family members
• Access to the Wisdom app with exclusive perks and discounts
• Membership to the OpenUp platform
• We are a workplace that encourages everyone to bring their whole selves to work. We are an inclusive workplace for our diverse employees around the world.
• And, last but not least, become part of a great team and work with us towards a world where everyone chooses delicious and healthy food that is good for all humans, animals, and our planet!
   

When?

Application deadline: 15.06
First (People & Culture) interview: 23.06 - 26.06
Trial task: 03.07-06.07.
Second (team) interview: 14.07 - 22.07
Final (executive) interview: 24.07 - 26.07
 

Further information

Your application should include a cover letter and CV. Please indicate your motivation for the role and describe how you meet the requirements. Please send us your application using our online form. Thank you!

Important: Please make sure to use your own words and ideas on the cover letter. The goal is for us to know you better in order to assess if this role and your motivation are a good fit. Letters written with AI, or written in a language other than English, will be disregarded.

 Harris Hill are delighted to be recruiting a Director of Care and Communities on behalf of L’Arche UK, a national movement creating inclusive communities where people with and without learning disabilities share life together.

Location: Hybrid – London-based (or another L’Arche location with regular UK-wide travel)
Salary: £72,800 + London weighting if applicable

This is a senior executive role responsible for overseeing the quality, safety, sustainability and development of L’Arche’s supported living, community life and housing services across England, Scotland and Wales. You will lead a team of Regional and Community Leaders and specialists, champion innovation and best practice in relational care, and act as the Nominated Individual to CQC in England.

You will also play a major part in L’Arche’s leadership team — helping shape the organisation’s strategy, culture and future impact in line with its inspiring 2030 vision.

We are looking for someone who can:

• Deliver operational excellence and outstanding person-centred care
• Lead quality assurance, safeguarding, and regulatory compliance (CQC experience essential)
• Build financial sustainability across Communities
• Champion inclusion, voice and leadership for people with learning disabilities
• Inspire innovation, best practice and continuous improvement
• Model relational, values-based leadership at the heart of everything

 You’ll bring proven experience leading social care or supported housing services at a senior level, with a passion for relational approaches to inclusion, community and care.

If this sounds like you and you’re looking for an exceptional leadership opportunity with a unique, values-driven organisation, please do get in touch!

How to apply

If you’re excited by this opportunity, please contact Lizzy Clark at Harris Hill at  

Deadline for applications: Monday 26th May

Please note, CVs are being reviewed on a rolling basis and only successful applicants will be contacted with more information.

 As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Title: Director of Finance & Operations

Location: London (hybrid working – minimum two days a week in the office)

Art Fund is seeking a strategic and collaborative Director of Finance & Operations to join its Senior Management Team and help shape the future of the UK’s cultural landscape.

Art Fund is the national fundraising charity for art. With over 142,000 members and a network of 900 museums, galleries, and historic places across the UK, it is a pioneering and independent voice in the cultural sector enriching collections, growing audiences, and advocating for the vital role museums play in society.

This role comes at an exciting and transformative time for the organisation. As Art Fund progresses through the final stages of its 2022/27 strategy and prepares for the next chapter, the Director of Finance and & Operations will play a critical leadership role in helping the organisation scale its impact, drive operational excellence, and support long-term growth.

The opportunity

The Director of Finance and & Operations will provide strategic and operational leadership across the following key areas: finance, people, governance, legal, facilities, and risk. They will lead a multidisciplinary internal services team and work closely with the Director, Senior Management Team, and Board of Trustees.

Major priorities will include embedding a new finance system, supporting the successful delivery of a cross-organisational CRM implementation, and the next five-year strategy and financial plan.

This position requires a qualified accountant with strong strategic planning and commercial acumen, ideally with experience supporting income growth and business innovation in a complex, values-driven organisation. They will be a natural relationship builder with excellent interpersonal, influencing, and communication skills.

While prior experience in the arts, heritage, or charity sectors is welcome, it’ is not essential. What matters most is a genuine passion for Art Fund’s mission to make art and culture accessible to all.

Candidate profile

Art Fund is looking for an individual who can demonstrate:

• Proven success in strategic leadership and financial management
• Strong experience of business planning and income generation
• A collaborative and inclusive leadership style
• A commitment to data-led decision-making and continuous improvement
• Deep understanding of organisational governance, risk, and compliance
• Outstanding team leadership and the ability to foster a positive, values-based workplace culture

What Art Fund offers

Art Fund offers a rewarding working environment, a beautiful canal-side office in King’s Cross, and a compelling benefits package, including:

• 27 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays
• 10% employer pension contribution
• Free National Art Pass (with a plus one)
• Art Allowance and Art Time to support cultural engagement
• Private healthcare cashback plan
• Flexible hybrid working and home office equipment allowance

Art Fund is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and welcomes applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

Allen Lane is acting as an employment agency advisor for The Art Fund on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit Allen Lane website or reach out to Rosemary Pini at Allen Lane.

Timeline:

• Closing date: Wednesday 14th May
• Shortlisting: 28th May
• First interviews: Week commencing 2nd June
• Final Stage Interviews: Week Commencing 9th June and 16th June

The eoa exists to grow and strengthen employee ownership as a force for powering fairer livelihoods, stronger businesses, and a more resilient economy. With 800+ member businesses and a community of thousands of employee owners, we are the national voice for employee ownership in the UK.

Our refreshed strategy is focused on accelerating impact through people powered growth. We’re here to make employee ownership a mainstream business model choice—by expanding the sector, setting the standard for excellence, and building a connected, values-led ecosystem. We do this through sharp insight, high-impact advocacy, and a thriving member experience.

For founders and business owners exploring employee ownership, or for leaders and managers building Great EO businesses, the eoa offers tools, knowledge, experience and connection. We facilitate powerful peer learning, codify what works, and champion the stories that inspire others to choose EO.

Together with our members, we’re creating the conditions for employee ownership to thrive—seizing the political, cultural, and digital opportunities ahead. and this is where you come in.

As Director of Partnerships and Growth, you’ll be the driving force behind the eoa’s external influence and reach. you’ll lead our advocacy and external affairs strategy, build meaningful partnerships, and deliver powerful events programmes that accelerate adoption of Great EO. You’ll also shape the narrative—ensuring our insights, policy recommendations and thought leadership land with impact.

This is a high-profile, senior leadership role at a pivotal time for the EO community. It calls for someone with a track record in advocacy or external affairs, strong commercial acumen, and the ability to lead high-performing teams. It also needs a big-picture thinker - someone who can champion EO, influence change, and help us build a more inclusive, resilient economy.

If you’re excited about the opportunity to grow an economy that puts people at the heart of business, we’d love to hear from you.

Role Details

At the heart of this Director of Parnterships & Growth role is the opportunity to shape the external environment for employee ownership, champion the voice of our members, and lead high-impact strategies that grow both our reach and the sector itself.

You’ll lead on policy, advocacy, external affairs and events—crafting compelling narratives, building powerful partnerships, and delivering programmes that drive commercial sustainability and sector-wide change.

From shaping relationships with key stakeholders and securing strategic sponsorships, to overseeing the delivery of thought leadership, content, and events, you’ll ensure that the eoa is not just part of the national conversation—but leading it.

Your ability to influence, convene, and inspire will be critical to removing barriers to employee ownership and unlocking the potential of our £1.7m organisation to deliver even greater impact.

Join us on this exciting journey where your leadership will shape policy, grow influence, and contribute to our mission of unlocking the potential of people, businesses, and the economy through employee ownership.

This role is remote, however regular travel to our HQ in Brough and across the UK is expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead external affairs, collaborating with stakeholders to shape policy, advocacy and best practice that removes barriers and expands EO.
• Establish relationships and secure commercial partnerships and sponsorships, generating revenue to support advocacy, events, and sector growth initiatives.
• Engage key stakeholders to co-produce content that positively influence EO practice and policy and amplify the eoa’s voice in public affairs.
• Oversee delivery of an effective content strategy that delivers our commercial objectives and positions the eoa as the leading EO authority.
• Oversee events programmes, ensuring they drive knowledge-sharing, sector development, and commercial sustainability.
• Represent the eoa at industry forums, policy roundtables, and public affairs events, championing the employee ownership model.
• Collaborate with the Director of Membership & Operations to align advocacy efforts with member needs and engagement.
• Lead and develop high-performing teams, fostering innovation and delivering measurable impact across advocacy, policy, event activities.

Success in this role

Success in this role means having a positive impact on the growth rate, influence and adoption of great EO across the employee ownership sector. Strengthening and expanding stakeholder relationships, driving advocacy impact and securing commercial sustainability through a diverse mix of sponsorships, partnerships will also be indicators of success.

Key outcomes for the role

• Growth of the employee ownership sector. Measured by increased number of EO businesses, heightened sector awareness
• Strengthened corporate engagement. Measured by growth in strategic partnerships, corporate and government engagement
• Strong Commercial Sustainability. Measured by increased sponsorship revenue, secured long-term commercial partnerships
• Increased policy influence. Measured by policy recommendations adopted, increased government engagement
• Enhanced sector insight and intelligence. Measured by utilisation of high-quality data and insights for regular sector related content outputs.
• Development and adoption of best practice. Measured by creation, adoption and promotion of best practice across the EO network.
• Successful events programmes. Measured by iIncreased participation, sponsorship growth, positive feedback.

About you

• Proven expertise in advocacy, public affairs, or policy leadership, ideally within a business, trade body, or membership association.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with experience influencing government, media, and corporate partners.
• Demonstrated ability to drive sectoral or policy change, leading successful advocacy initiatives.
• Strong commercial acumen, with experience in sponsorship acquisition, revenue generation, and developing financially sustainable initiatives.
• Exceptional strategic communication and storytelling skills, able to engage and mobilise diverse audiences.
• Experience in event programme development, ensuring high engagement and sector impact.
• Passion for employee ownership and economic models that promote shared prosperity.
• Innovative, creative, and proactive in problem-solving and strategy execution.
• A confident and transparent leader who fosters collaboration and inclusivity through teamwork.
• Self-aware with emotional intelligence, resilience, and integrity.

Role Summary

• Contract: Permanent
• Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week
• Location: Remote, with regular travel to eoa offices and national events
• Salary & Benefits: £65,000 p/a + 7% Pensions. 30 Days leave + Bank Holidays.
• Reports to: CEO
• Management: TBC

Director - Workforce Policy and Services

Location: AoC London Office
Department: Workforce
Salary: £68,400 - £85,500 (depending on experience)
Hours: Full Time, 37.5 Hours per week
Job Type: Full time
Contract Type: Permanent

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Association of Colleges (AoC) in a new position of Director – Workforce Policy and Services. As the national voice for further education (FE) colleges in England, AoC represents and supports member colleges with professional services, advocacy, and sector leadership. We are a not-for-profit organisation established by colleges, for colleges – supporting over 95% of the sector, transforming 2.2 million lives each year.

This senior leadership role will oversee the strategic direction and delivery of AoC’s workforce function – including directing FE workforce policy, industrial relations and pay, employment advice, recruitment, and consultancy. Reporting to the Deputy Chief Executive, the successful candidate will work collaboratively across the organisation and with key external stakeholders to promote and represent the employer interests of colleges across England.

We are seeking an experienced leader with a strong background in at least one area of the workforce remit, strategic insight, advocacy skills and a commitment to supporting colleges and their people. A deep understanding of the challenges facing the FE workforce and a collaborative, inclusive approach to leadership is essential. You will bring excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, strong strategic thinking, and the ability to drive service quality and innovation.

As Director, you will lead and manage a multi-functional team delivering high-quality workforce services and advice to colleges, ensuring these are responsive to sector needs. You will represent college employers in national pay negotiations and workforce policy development, oversee recruitment and consultancy services, and with your team drive policy influencing and evidence-based decision-making through strong stakeholder engagement and data insight. This is a varied and strategic role that combines leadership, sector advocacy, and operational oversight across FE employment and workforce priorities.

This role is offered on a permanent, full-time basis. There will be regular travel to AoC’s national office in London and across the country to attend meetings and represent the organisation. Flexible working requests will be considered. If you’re a senior workforce leader with a passion for improving outcomes in education and want to be at the forefront of shaping FE workforce policy and services, we’d love to hear from you!

At AoC, we value trust, flexibility and professional growth. You’ll join a high-performing, mission-led organisation that offers generous benefits, flexible working, and opportunities to develop your career while making a positive impact on the FE community.

Please review the full job description and person specification, which outlines the role in more detail. 

How to Apply

If you think you have the skills, experience, and attributes to hit the ground running in this position, we would welcome your application. Click 'apply now' below.

To be considered for this role, your application must be submitted and received by 9am on 26 May 2025.

Interviews: 

Date: W/C 2 June 2025
Venue: In person, AoC London Office

AoC is committed to providing equal opportunities and embracing diversity. We encourage applications from everyone and will not discriminate against any applicants on the basis of age, disability, sex, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

Thank you for your interest in this opportunity to join the AoC team.

REF-221501

Job Description

In this pivotal role, you are responsible for ensuring not only the efficient and effective operation of the organisation, but also the quality of public engagement and the achievement of CSC’s annual direct revenue targets. You help steer and coordinate all of CSC’s workstreams, translating the organisation’s vision into action that is grounded, sustainable, and scalable. Your remit includes oversight of all public and school engagement, operations at the Trinity Centre, and outreach delivery for remote-site pop-ups.

People and talent management sit at the heart of this role. CSC is powered by an exceptionally skilled, passionate, and committed team, and your primary responsibility is to create the conditions in which they can thrive. You coordinate planning across functions, define clear pathways forward, remove obstacles, and keep priorities aligned—empowering others to do their best work.

You are a thoughtful, supportive, and trusted leader—respected for your fairness, clarity, and calm. You set high standards, not through pressure, but by fostering a culture of growth, accountability, and mutual respect. You understand the value of developing individuals and teams, nurturing talent while keeping the organisation agile and focused.

Empathy, clarity, and accountability are central to your leadership approach. You bring a “firm but fair” ethos to everything you do—balancing care with rigour, and ensuring people feel valued, heard, and united in purpose.

You lead CSC’s budgeting, cost control, and direct revenue generation, working closely with the Finance Director to oversee all financial operations. Beyond finance, you are responsible for maintaining and evolving the IT and business systems that underpin CSC’s day-to-day operations—ensuring the organisation can coordinate effectively, track progress, and resolve issues with a solutions-focused mindset.

Leveraging Cambridge’s world-class deep-tech ecosystem, you help ensure CSC remains at the forefront of best-in-class management systems and processes. You assess their potential for cost-effectiveness and operational value before planning and managing implementation.

You also work in close partnership with the CEO and Board to identify organisational risks and develop robust mitigation strategies—ensuring CSC remains resilient, responsive, and well-positioned for the future.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the implementation of CSC’s annual operational plan, aligning delivery with strategic priorities, managing budget adherence, and reporting quarterly to the Board on progress and performance.

• Oversee the organisation’s engagement with the public, schools, and local communities, including activity at the Trinity Centre and through outreach initiatives.

• In coordination with fellow Directors, support the CEO in translating their vision and strategy into actionable workflows by setting measurable goals, assigning clear ownership, and guiding team leads to develop practical delivery plans—overseeing progress and ensuring alignment throughout.

• Develop and maintain a corporate dashboard that provides a clear, at-a-glance view of the organisation’s performance against its annual plans—offering an ongoing health check throughout the year.

• Ensure regular, focused cross-team check-ins are in place to support coordination, align workflows, and provide timely visibility of upcoming activities and priorities.

• Line-manage the Visitor Experience Manager and Engagement and Logistics Lead.

• Support the Visitor Experience Manager in setting and achieving annual direct revenue targets, while ensuring Cambridge Science Centre serves as a vibrant showcase of the organisation’s brand and values.

• Support the Engagement and Logistics Lead to ensure the delivery team is well-trained, motivated, and equipped to deliver high-quality engagements. Oversee the development of fair and forward-planned rotas, and ensure any unassigned delivery capacity is allocated in a way that maximises value for CSC while supporting individual development and growth.

• Support the Outreach and Innovation Manager to integrate their team’s workflow with that of the Delivery and Visitor Engagement team.

• Ensure that each team member has a clearly defined individual development plan reviewed and agreed annually, with regular check-ins to keep progress on track and ensure ongoing support throughout the year.

• Set and regularly review CSC’s corporate policies to ensure they remain current, relevant, and understood by all staff.

• Ensure all staff receive appropriate training to maintain a safe, low-risk environment for both colleagues and the public at all times—covering safeguarding, health and safety, de-escalation, and emergency procedures.

• Review all CSC contracts at key development stages to ensure commitments are clearly understood, feasible, and aligned with the organisation’s capacity to deliver.

• Oversee CSC’s contractual fulfilment and organisational risk management, including asset tracking and oversight in coordination with the Visitor Engagement Manager and Product Development Officer. Work alongside the Finance Director to maintain and review the company’s risk register on a six-monthly basis, ensuring risks are monitored and mitigated effectively.

• Oversee the implementation and ongoing management of IT, HR, and business systems—ensuring effective staff training, consistent usage, and accessible support to maximise organisational efficiency and impact.

• Manage CSC’s documentation policies, digital archiving, and workspace structures (e.g., Google Drive), including the assignment and oversight of access permissions to ensure clarity, security, and ease of use.
   

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

• Brings a solutions-oriented mindset and a practical, inclusive approach to problem-solving, underpinned by a positive and collaborative “can-do” attitude.

• A seasoned line and team manager who leads with a “firm but fair” ethos—valuing clear communication, personal accountability, and empathetic leadership to foster a supportive and high-performing team culture.

• Proven experience overseeing spaces, systems, and logistical operations, preferably within a public venue environment, with a strong understanding of the practicalities of day-to-day visitor management and operational delivery.

• An inclusive and approachable leader with a natural curiosity, you foster an open-door culture and ask the right questions to help people and teams explore ideas and reach effective solutions.

• You are detail-oriented and methodical, ensuring that planning is assigned, completed, and maintained. You work well in advance to create plans that are clear, comprehensive, and easy to follow—making sure everyone understands their role and is committed to achieving shared goals.

• Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.

• Confident and literate in IT networks and business systems, with the ability to navigate, implement, and support digital tools that enhance organisational efficiency.

• Driven to deliver timely, high-quality outcomes in everything you do.

• Proven ability to adapt quickly and effectively to changing priorities.

• A commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

• A collaborative work ethic that enables you to work effectively with colleagues and partners across a diverse range of projects and disciplines.

• Achieve a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.

Desirable Criteria

• Proven experience managing public engagement across multiple sites, including coordinating dynamic pop-up exhibitions and events.

• A keen interest in staying informed about global developments and emerging trends in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

• Customer service skills and experience.

• A qualification or training in business or operational management would be advantageous, but relevant experience and skills will also be highly valued.

• Full clean driving license

Working Conditions
The primary locations for this role will be Cambridge Science Centre's Head Office at 44 Clifton Road, Cambridge, CB1 7ED (assigned desk or workspace) and the Cambridge Science Centre at Trinity Centre, Cambridge Science Park, CB4 0FN (hotdesking model).

In addition, there will be travel (primarily driving with a company or hire vehicle) to the semi-permanent centre (Inspire Wisbech Centre, Wisbech, PE13 1AR) and, on occasion a variety of locations across the East of England.

We offer the option of flexible hybrid working where and when possible.

Advancement Opportunities

CSC invests in its staff through a structured career-planning framework. As a senior staff member, your training will focus on developing best practice within the areas you manage, tailored to both organisational goals and your professional growth. These individual development opportunities are reviewed and planned annually, ensuring your continued progression and alignment with CSC’s strategic objectives.

Standard working hours are 7.5 hours per day

Parking and bike storage are available at both CSC locations.

Benefits include:

• 25 days annual leave, plus Bank Holidays

• Mental health support in partnership with BetterHelp

• Contributory pension scheme

Recruitment Process and Timeline:

To apply for the position of Director of Operations and Engagement at Cambridge Science Centre, please submit your CV and a Cover Letter explaining why you are interested in joining the Centre and how your skills and experience align with the role.

At CSC, we’re committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of our work. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, especially those underrepresented in science engagement.

Join us in the fight against cancer.

The charity is an international leader in pioneering cancer research, changing lives through innovation, hope, and impact. They are an independent, international non-profit organisation dedicated to beating cancer through the advancement of cutting-edge research.

The organisation are seeking an ambitious Executive Director to lead the UK charity. With a focus on all types on cancer but especially the ones that are underfunded, like paediatric cancer, they fund pioneering scientific projects that accelerate the development of effective treatments.

Executive Director
Location: London (Hybrid)
Salary: Circa £75,000

The Role
As Executive Director, you will set the strategic direction, drive high-impact initiatives, and lead a passionate team committed to changing the future of cancer treatment. You'll be the face of the charity, forging vital partnerships, growing income, and ensuring operational excellence.

What You'll Bring

• A hands-on and strategic leader with a proven track record of driving growth in the charity sector.
• Skilled team-builder with experience in leading small, high-performing teams toward clear goals and ambitious outcomes.
• A persuasive and results-driven fundraiser with success in securing major gifts from high-net-worth individuals, foundations, and corporate partners.
• Financially and operationally astute, with relevant in budget oversight, governance, and compliance.

Why the charity?
You'll be part of a dedicated international community committed to pushing the boundaries of cancer research. Your leadership will have a direct impact on funding world-class science that changes and saves lives.

The charity actively encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, especially those underrepresented in the workforce. We are committed to an inclusive recruitment process where everyone feels supported, respected, and empowered to thrive. We are happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure all candidates can fully participate.

Recruitment Timetable
Deadline for applications: 8th June
Interviews with Prospectus: 19th - 23rd June
Interviews with CRIS Cancer Foundation: Week commencing 30th June.