Director of operations jobs

Who we are:

Muslim Aid is a UK faith-based international development organisation that provides support to communities around the world affected by disasters, conflict, or endemic poverty without regard to their social, religious, or ethnic background. 

Established in 1985, Muslim Aid has facilitated the engagement of the British Muslim and non-Muslim community in support of its work in a variety of ways. Over the years, its humanitarian work has included responses to major crises around the world including, famine in East Africa, earthquakes and flooding in Pakistan and Bangladesh as well as conflicts in Syria and Yemen. 

We place strong emphasis on long-term development projects that build the capacity of local people to help themselves. In addition to the 5 country offices worldwide we also work with multiple partner offices focusing on sustainable Development Programmes and providing humanitarian relief during times of crisis.

Summary of the role:

The Country Director will provide dynamic leadership and management to develop and deliver Muslim Aid ‘s strategy in Sudan, with a focus on leading and building a high-performing, diverse team and developing strong relationships with external stakeholders that are critical to the organisation’s growth and reputation in the country.

About the Role:

1. Ensure the country office’s programme strategy is responding to the country’s critical development and humanitarian needs, and is also aligned to organisation’s global strategy, mission and values.
2. Enhance Muslim Aid’s reputation and brand through maintaining positive relationships  other stakeholders, including government, donors, UN bodies, other INGOs, and local NGOs.
3. Identify areas for capacity building with partners such as, organisational management, gender mainstreaming, human resource management, financial management, governance, etc.
4. Line manage the country team and the work in the country which will include staff, budgets, funding (both institutional and local) and ensure programme delivery in accordance with Muslim Aid policies and procedures.
5. Proactively seek new opportunities for funding of projects through in-country and external relationship building with stakeholders including the bilateral and multilateral development partners and the submission of self-sustainable programme initiatives.
6. Ensure that there is an adequate analysis of the risks which could impact on Muslim Aid’s operations in Sudan and to evaluate the risk appetite of the Sudan Country Office.

About You:

To be successful in this role, you will need:

1. Proven experience working internationally in development and/or humanitarian sector.
2. Experience in a project or programme management capacity
3. Knowledge, experience and appreciation of the dynamics of local NGO’s and community based development practices.
4. Proven experience in monitoring and evaluation of programmes; use of quantitative and qualitative research data collection in support of programme development
5. Experience of managing security, risk and legal compliance in the INGO sector.
6. Excellent communication and team working skills, with the ability to build good relations both internally and externally.

Why you should apply:

Join Muslim Aid as our Country Director Sudan and take on a pivotal leadership role in shaping and delivering our strategic vision in a complex and high-impact context. You will lead and inspire a diverse, high-performing team while strengthening key relationships with partners and stakeholders essential to our growth and reputation in the country. If you are driven by strategic leadership, team development and building meaningful partnerships to support impactful humanitarian work, apply now to make a lasting difference in Sudan.

Benefits you will enjoy working for us:

• 22 days annual leave
• Medical benefits in line with MA-UK local medical benefit policy
• One-off relocation allowance*
• One-off baggage allowance*
• Hardship allowance*
• Unaccompanied allowance*
• Accommodation allowance* (or in line with MA-UK accommodation policy for local staff)
• Rest and Recuperation (R&R)*
• Two home visits per year*

Please note: Benefits marked (*) are applicable only where the successful candidate is required to relocate to Sudan.

How to apply:

To apply please submit your cover letter (no more than 1 page) and CV.

The Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) is a family of 23 independent schools and two academies, united by a shared mission to help girls learn without limits, so they go on to lead lives without limits. As pioneers in girls’ education, we are proud of our heritage and ambitious for our future. To fulfil our public purpose of reaching as many girls as possible, we have an ambitious fundraising strategy, focused on transformational bursaries and innovative learning, enabling girls from a wide range of financial backgrounds to access a GDST education.

We are seeking an exceptional Head of Philanthropy Operations to lead the systems, processes and insight that underpin philanthropic income generation and supporter engagement across the GDST and its family of schools.

This is a key leadership role within the Philanthropy and Partnerships team. Working closely with the Deputy Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, you will provide strategic leadership for the operational infrastructure that enables fundraising and alumnae engagement to grow in a coordinated, compliant and sustainable way. You will play a central role in strengthening how data, systems and operational support are used to help colleagues across the Trust Office and schools deliver excellent fundraising and stewardship activity.

What you’ll be doing

In this role, you will lead the operational strategy that supports philanthropy and alumnae engagement across the GDST, ensuring the systems, processes and reporting that underpin fundraising are effective, compliant and built for sustainable growth. You will lead CRM, data and performance insight to strengthen decision-making, pipeline development, donor stewardship and long-term relationship management across the GDST network.

You will also oversee core fundraising operations, provide high-quality reporting to senior leaders and Trustees, and lead a small team to deliver strong operational support across the GDST. Alongside this, you will help equip colleagues across schools and the Trust Office with the tools, guidance and insight they need to strengthen fundraising and supporter engagement.

What skills and experience you’ll bring to the role

• Significant experience in philanthropy or fundraising operations leadership, with a strong track record of leading systems, processes and operational improvement in a complex organisation
• Substantial experience of CRM management, data analysis and fundraising reporting, with the ability to translate insight into clear strategic recommendations and practical action
• Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively while maintaining close attention to detail
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the confidence to work closely with senior stakeholders, including executive leaders and Trustees, and to build trusted relationships across a network of schools and central teams
• Experience of leading and developing teams, alongside a good understanding of fundraising regulation, compliance and data protection
• A combination of strategic thinking and operational rigour, with a clear motivation to help create greater access, opportunity and impact through philanthropy at the GDST.

Why join us?

As part of the GDST, the UK's leading network of independent girls' schools, we can offer a variety of benefits, such as:

• Competitive salaries and pay progression
• Access to extensive professional development opportunities
• Training grants for qualifications
• A discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools
• Generous pension schemes
• Free life assurance benefit
• Interest free loans for training, computer purchase loans and travel season ticket loans
• A Cycle to Work scheme
• Competitive terms and conditions of employment

There are many other good reasons to work with us. Each of our schools and our Trust Office has its own sense of community, and you’ll be part of it. You’ll be in the company of some of the best and brightest people in independent education. Most importantly, no matter what your role, you’ll be playing a major part in the highly regarded education we give our girls.

For further details and to apply please click the apply button.

Closing date: 30th April 2026 at 10:00 AM.

The Girls’ Day School Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection checks appropriate to the post, including online searches and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

When life gets tough, good relationships help us through.

TLC: Talk, Listen, Change is a relationships charity that has supported people in the North of England for over 40 years.

Our aim to ensure everyone within our community benefits from good emotional wellbeing, and the key to this is maintaining safe, healthy, and happy relationships.

We’re entering an exciting phase of growth across the country and are looking for a Group Finance Director to join our Executive Leadership Team to contribute to the collective leadership of the TLC Group.

The Role

This role will lead the financial strategy and financial management of the TLC Group.

You will:

· Lead financial strategy to ensure sustainability and growth.

· Advise the CEO, Executive Leadership Team, and Board on financial matters.

· Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow, and financial planning.

· Ensure strong governance, controls, and regulatory compliance.

· Provide clear, high-quality financial reporting and Board assurance.

· Lead audit, statutory reporting, and external auditor relationships.

· Oversee financial systems and processes to support growth.

· Lead financial due diligence for partnerships, mergers, and opportunities.

· Lead and develop the finance team, promoting accountability, and transparency.

About You

We’re looking for a values-led, people-focused leader with sound judgement and strong operational experience.

You’ll bring:

· Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).

· Significant senior finance leadership experience.

· Strong expertise in financial strategy, planning, and governance.

· Experience of Board reporting and working with senior stakeholders.

· Skilled in budgeting, forecasting, and cashflow management.

· Experience in financial modelling and supporting growth.

· Proven ability to lead and develop high performing teams.

· Strong analytical skills, including advanced excel capability.

· Able to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance audiences.

· Collaborative, values-led, and motivated by social impact.

The Offer

· Salary: £61,429 - £71,069

· 37 hours per week

· Hybrid working, with time spent at TLC Group offices (various locations across England).

· The opportunity to help lead a growing national service with strong group-level support.

If you’re motivated by using your financial expertise to drive meaningful social impact, and want to play a key role in shaping the future of a growing, values-led organisation, we’d love to hear from you.

Application Deadline:

The deadline for applications is Thursday 14th May 2026

Interviews expected in Manchester on Tuesday 2nd June 2026

Country Director – Scotland

We are seeking a talented individual to join our Leadership team and help sustain and expand our programmes across Scotland.

Position: Country Director – Scotland
Salary: £53,836 - £59,012
Location: Hybrid with travel to Glasgow office at least once a week
Hours: 35 hours per week, full time
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: Wednesday 6th May 2026
Interview Dates: 13th May (online) and 18th May (Glasgow)

About the Role

This is an exceptional opportunity to join The Fostering Network as one of four Country Directors, working closely with the CEO to deliver organisational strategic objectives.

You will lead and manage our work in Scotland, making a vital contribution to improving the lives of foster families, children and young people in foster care, while supporting fostering services across the country.

Key responsibilities include:

· Overall management and leadership of our work in Scotland

· Driving forward the monitoring, impact and evaluation of our work

· Developing and maintaining key stakeholder relationships including government, fostering services and sector partners

· Overseeing the development and delivery of sustainable, impactful programmes

· Securing grants, fundraising and promoting our work across the sector

· Budget management and financial oversight

· Identifying opportunities for innovation and collaboration

· Growing membership and maintaining our position as the leading fostering charity in the UK

· Acting as safeguarding lead for Scotland

About You

We are looking for a strategic, collaborative leader with extensive experience of the fostering sector.

You will bring:

· In-depth knowledge of foster care practice and children’s social care

· Experience working within statutory local authority social services

· A track record of leadership, line management and delivering change

· Experience of strategic planning, programme delivery and budget management

· Strong experience working with government officials and key stakeholders

· Excellent communication and relationship management skills

· The ability to inspire trust and credibility across a wide range of audiences

· Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise effectively

You will also demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion, and the organisation’s mission and values.

About the Organisation: The Fostering Network is the UK’s leading fostering charity and membership organisation, dedicated to empowering, enriching and supporting the relationships at the heart of the fostering community.

They work across all four nations of the UK to improve outcomes for children and young people in foster care and to support foster carers and services.

What’s on Offer

· 38 days leave including bank holidays

· Flexible and hybrid working

· Enhanced maternity, adoption and sick pay

· Employee Assistance Programme

· Pension and life assurance

· Family friendly policies and fostering friendly leave

Other roles you may have experience of could include: Director of Services, Head of Fostering, Assistant Director Social Care, Service Director, Head of Operations, Programme Director, Children’s Services Manager

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client Not For Profit People.

This is a vital role for the Bikeability Trust in leading the management of over £78 million of Active Travel England grant funding to 2029 for the provisiion of Bikeability training and management of the grants programme. We are also launching a new fundraising and income generation strategy for the next three years. You will have significant experience of charity finance and reporting. An established leader with excellent financial acumen, you will have used these abilities to establish and maintain effective relationships with colleagues, external stakeholders and networks.

This role focuses on the visitor facing side of ticketing operations. Ticketing set up and revenue management is not part of the remit, and is led by a separate senior manager, who this person will work closely with.

Please download the attached Job Description for a full overview of this role's responsibilities.
If you are viewing on a job board, please navigate to our website to find the original advert.

The annual salary stated is based on the Full-Time Equivalent (40 hours per week). If the job is part-time, the weekly hours will be stated within the advert.

The deadline for applications is 23:59 on the closing date for the job posting.

Please note, applications sent via Email or 3rd party agencies will not be considered.

Need reasonable adjustments? Please contact us so we can help make the application process accessible to you. Be sure to include the job you are applying for and your full name.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds. By attracting people with diverse attitudes, opinions and beliefs we can continue to look at the world with fresh eyes and find new ways of doing things. The Southbank Centre is a warm and welcoming place to work, with great aspirations and ambitions to create great and accessible work for all. We pride ourselves in building a supportive environment to enable the development of our colleagues.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Head of Visitor Experience and Ticketing to inspire, motivate and manage the Ticketing Operations team to deliver a responsive, dynamic and vibrant visitor experience. 
• Support the overall Visitor Experience and Ticketing Strategy by monitoring, managing and improving performance of the whole Visitor Experience and Ticketing team. 
• Lead on the analysis and response to visitor feedback. 
• Lead on projects prioritised by the Head of Visitor Experience and Ticketing. 
• Work with all Southbank Centre departments and partners to improve the quality and consistency of the Southbank Centre Visitor Experience and Ticketing operation.

Skills & Experience

• Passion for providing and promoting an excellent experience for visitors.
• Extensive experience of venue ticketing operations and related systems.
• Experience managing and developing a large dynamic team in a visitor focused operation. 
• Strong leader and problem solver, always leading by example Excellent communications skills.

Benefits

As well as working at one of London's most popular and exciting  sites the successful candidate will also benefit from the following:​​​​​​​
 

• A min 5%  pension contribution (going up to 9% depending on employee contribution), from day 1 of employment
• 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays
• Enhanced sick pay
• Enhanced family leave benefits
• Up to 30% discounts at onsite retail, food and beverage vendors
• Staff ticket offers for SC events
• Free entry to Hayward Gallery
• Free/discounted entry with other reciprocal organisations
• Free staff yoga 

Lead and Direct Income Generation and Future Fundraising for Swindon Food Collective

The role has key responsibility for all income generation activities at Swindon Food Collective. This includes high-profile networking with local businesses, corporations and the public sector, processing grant applications, growing and managing key corporate partnerships and significantly increasing fundraising activities. This is a senior role and the role-holder will be a member of the Senior Leadership Team. The work involves undertaking frequent travel to local corporations, businesses, and wider public sector stakeholders. 

Role Purpose
To design, deliver and secure a multi-stream recurring income generation strategy, manage charity-wide philanthropy, and strengthen long-term financial resilience.

Key responsibilities

Strategy and planning
• Develop and deliver a 12–24-month income generation plan aligned to SFC priorities and the Trustee Strategy & Fundraising Committee.
• Build a balanced income mix (corporate, philanthropy, trusts, community and digital where appropriate), with clear targets and resource assumptions.
• Produce compelling cases for support and pitch materials tailored to different audiences.

Corporate partnerships and sponsorship
• Identify, cultivate and secure corporate partnerships and sponsorships (including 'charity of the year' and payroll giving where feasible).
• Design partnership packages (benefits, brand alignment, staff engagement, volunteering) and manage delivery and stewardship.
• Work closely with the Brand Ambassador & Events Manager to convert event leads into partnership conversations. 

Philanthropy, major donors and relationship fundraising
• Build and steward relationships with high-value supporters, ensuring excellent donor care and personalised stewardship.
• Manage a prospect pipeline (research, cultivation plans, asks, stewardship and renewals).
• Coordinate CEO and trustee involvement in high-value relationships where appropriate. 

Trusts, foundations and grant fundraising
• Own the trusts and foundations pipeline, from identifying funders to writing compelling bids and submitting applications.
• Coordinate impact evidence and data collection across SFC to strengthen applications and reporting.
• Complete and undertake all funding and grant applications (corporate and public sector) in a timely fashion and ahead of relevant deadlines. Report funding progress to stakeholders. 
• Ensure timely and high-quality funder reporting and relationship management. 

Performance management, systems and compliance
• Manage income forecasting, budgeting and ROI tracking; set and monitor KPIs and provide clear reporting to CEO/Board.
• Maintain accurate records in the CRM (or agreed system), ensuring GDPR compliance and strong data quality.
• Ensure fundraising activity aligns with relevant fundraising standards and ethical practice. 

Leadership and organisational contribution
• Senior Leadership Team member: contribute to organisational planning, budgeting and risk management.
• Work collaboratively across operations and volunteering functions to ensure fundraising promises align with delivery capability and safeguarding requirements.
• Coach and support colleagues and volunteers who contribute to income generation activity. 
• Other tasks as relevant / determined by the CEO. 
 

Role: Director of Fundraising

Salary: £80,533.78 (gross) per annum inclusive of London Weighting, with a fixed sum allowance of £2,764. 

Current employees in banding 53 will maintain their existing salary.

Location: Head Office- London

Duration: Permanent

The Labour Party is looking to recruit a Director of Fundraising. The post-holder will be responsible for leading the development and delivery of a strategic, multi-layered fundraising programme, maximising mid and high value income to support the organisation’s short, medium, and long-term electoral objectives. The postholder will align fundraising strategy with the political electoral cycle, ensuring sustainable income growth, effective donor engagement, and the financial resilience required to deliver Political campaign success at all levels.

The successful candidate will have:

• Experience working in a fast paced, high pressure environment, managing political risk 

• Proven track record of success in project management, through the complete project life cycle, preferably in complex situations 

• The ability to produce overarching fundraising strategies and to ensure their effective implementation

• Proven and successful experience of fundraising and income generation activity

The Labour Party’s standard working arrangement is that all employees based in headquarters in London/Newcastle attend their contracted office four days per week, Monday to Thursday. Home working is only authorised on Fridays.

The deadline for applications is 17 May 2026.

The Labour Party values equality and diversity, and welcomes applications from candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marriage and civil partnership, or pregnancy and maternity.

Visitor Experience Manager

Location: Painswick, Gloucestershire (GL6 6TH)

Hours: 32hrs per week (over 4 days)

Salary: £32,905.60 FTE, equating to £26,324.48 pro-rata Are you a creative and people-focused leader who can turn a great visit into an unforgettable one?

The location

Set in the heart of the Cotswolds, Painswick Rococo Garden is the last surviving Rococo garden in England. Designed in the 1740s as a place to entertain and relax, it remains a place of beauty, surprise and escape. Today, the garden is an independent charity, which offers a unique blend of heritage, horticulture and wildlife, making it a truly special place to work and visit.

Role summary

We have an exciting opportunity for a Visitor Experience Manager to help make every visit to Painswick Rococo Garden warm, inspiring and memorable.

You’ll be an integral part of bringing our beautiful and quirky 18th-century garden to life by leading our programme of events and family trails, interpretation, customer service and presentation standards.

Passionate and enthusiastic, you will deliver a high-quality visitor experience that make visitors feel more connected to the garden.

With a strong commercial and community focus, you’ll grow audiences and income through well-planned, profitable activity and new offers, while supporting safe, compliant day-to-day operations (including duty management and safeguarding responsibilities).

You’ll manage, motivate and develop the visitor experience team, and will lead the volunteer journey, ensuring the volunteer experience is varied, productive and rewarding for all involved.

You’ll champion excellent customer service, so every visitor feels welcome and enjoys a great day out.

Please note: the role includes regular duty management on a rota basis, including weekends, bank holidays and evenings. About you If you’re a people-focused leader with experience in heritage visitor operations and delivering engaging events and interpretation, we’d love to hear from you.

• Hands-on experience of delivering interpretation, events and visitor operations in a heritage/visitor attraction setting.

• Experience of establishing and leading a culture of exceptional customer service.

• Experience of running high-quality, profitable events.

• Team management and leadership skills including coaching, development, motivation, and communication.

• Excellent people and influencing skills, with the ability to build great relationships and work collaboratively, proactively and effectively to achieve the charity’s goals.

• Good understanding of different visitor audiences and the ability to draw on / develop audience insight.

• Excellent organisational and communication skills: able to prioritise, work to tight timescales, and communicate clearly with a wide range of people.

• Understand responsibilities in terms of health and safety, security and data protection in a visitor operations setting and how to manage and minimise risk.

• Ability to manage budgets effectively to maximise income. Demonstrates a responsible attitude to available resources.

• Great IT skills including with Microsoft Office.

• First aid qualification (or willingness to learn).

What we offer

As well as working in a beautiful setting, we offer discretionary benefits including 8% employer pension contribution, free admission, 20% discount in the café and shop, simple lunch, and training and learning opportunities. How to apply Send your CV and covering letter explaining why you’re interested and how you meet the requirements. 

The Dunard Centre is a new world-class performance venue being built in Edinburgh’s city centre. A new home for the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and a new venue for Edinburgh International Festival, the venue will play host to a diverse programme of events and be a thriving community space in the heart of the city.

With construction well underway, we are looking to recruit an experienced Head of Facilities and Operations to join the Dunard Centre team through its capital phase and into operations. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with senior experience in a live performance venue to play a key role in establishing the operations function for this once-in-a-century concert hall during its construction, before going on to lead the smooth running of the venue once open.

Working alongside the Project Director during the capital phase, the Head of Facilities and Operations will bring specialist knowledge of cultural venues and their operational requirements, enabling intelligent decision-making and a smooth transition from construction to opening. Once open, you will lead the day-to-day operations of this busy community and performance space, helping to ensure the Dunard Centre fulfils its ambitions to become a world-class venue that is welcoming and accessible to all.

The ideal candidate will have experience of working on a capital project, as well as operational experience of running a cultural venue, as this role will necessarily change and adapt as the capital project nears completion.

To find out more, including how to apply, please read the full job description on the Dunard Centre website.

Salary: £87,500 per annum

Hours: 37.5 hours per week 

Location: Hybrid – remote/Exeter with regular attendance at HQ, plus regular travel to other DAA sites and events as required

Duration: Permanent 

The Role

The Income Generation Director plays a pivotal leadership role in enabling Devon Air Ambulance to deliver its mission through strong, trusted relationships with the public, supporters, partners and stakeholders. You will be responsible for the strategic leadership of income generation, communications and public engagement, as the Income Generation Director brings together fundraising, marketing, communications and commercial activity to grow support for Devon Air Ambulance and generate long-term sustainable income.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will contribute to the development and delivery of the corporate strategy, providing insight, challenge and leadership across the organisation. You will hold responsibility for public engagement and income generation activity across both the Charity and the Trading Company. The postholder will need to be willing to hold/apply for a Gambling Commission Personal Management Licence for the lottery.

The Candidate

We're seeking an inspirational leader who is collaborative and open, and can provide cross-departmental support to all teams, with the ability to achieve strategic goals. The ideal candidate will be able to role model a culture of integrity, honesty and openness with demonstrable experience of senior leadership within public engagement, income generation communications, marketing or a related field. They will have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to build effective partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, being able to influence and have a tangible impact on income generation. The candidate will be able to operate in a dynamic and high-profile environment with the confidence to innovate and take informed risks. 

As the role will require engagement with communities, staff and supporters across the county, it is essential that the candidate has a full driving licence. 

The Package

Salary: £87,500 per annum.

As a valued member of the team you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:

• 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays (pro rata)
• Maternity/Paternity & Adoption leave
• Pension scheme
• Occupational sick pay scheme
• Free counselling and financial wellbeing services
• Up to £8,000 relocation package available if eligible. 

Find out more about our staff benefits on our website.

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience and career.

The Chief Executive & Creative Director holds the most senior post at Dance City, unites the creative and strategic functions of the organisation, and is accountable to the board of trustees for the good management and impact of the charity. The Chief Executive & Creative Director leads and works collaboratively with the board, senior management team (SMT) and stakeholders and partners to ensure that Dance City creates opportunities for people to create, produce and experience dance at its very best. The Chief Executive & Creative Director drives the business, identifying commercial opportunities, securing financial resilience, and ensuring that Dance City’s programme is at the vanguard of sustainable dance development in the region. The Chief Executive & Creative Director is based in the northeast and plays an active role in the social life and cultural communities of the region. 
 

Role Profile and Person Specification 

Key deliverables 

• Lead on Dance City’s vision, values and organisational objectives and ensure the relevance and sustainability of its creative programme.

• Ensure there is alignment between Dance City’s creative ambitions and its business needs and that all activity is delivered to the highest possible standards to plan and within budget.

• Grow the organisation’s earned income and shape and set targets for initiatives embracing commercial ventures, corporate partnerships, public funding, trusts and foundations and individual philanthropy.

• Be accountable to the board and to funding bodies, and for the responsible stewardship of Dance City.

• Ensure a strong profile and reputation for the organisation and for dance practice locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. 

• Initiate, develop and sustain partnerships with existing and potential funders and key stakeholders. 

• Lead and enable the senior team; motivate, inspire, and support the development of the wider staff team.

Role profile 

Leadership and governance  

• Develop and monitor the strategic plan with the SMT and Board. 

• Work closely with the Chair and Trustees to ensure the good governance of the charity and that organisational performance is structured and monitored using well articulated, achievable KPIs. 

• Support Trustees in being an effective Board, ensuring it comprises the appropriate range of skills and has access to training and development opportunities.

• Deploy Trustees’ skills and networks to identify and activate opportunities for commercial development and business growth.

• Be an inclusive leader, collaborate with and empower the SMT, and motivate, support and develop the wider staff team. 

Advocacy, profile and civic engagement 

• Promote the profile and reputation of Dance City locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

• Initiate and enable constructive debate about dance and its development by artists, policy-makers and the public, and to promote Dance City’s role in dance leadership.

• Articulate the transformative potential of dance in enabling social cohesion, the centrality of its place in the wider creative industries sector, and its potential, through civic partnerships and collaboration, to make a major contribution to the economy and well being of the city and region. 

• Ensure Dance City is part of local, regional, national  and international arts discussions and networks, is represented at key events and viewed as crucial to decision-making processes in the dance and wider cultural and social sectors.

• Be the face of Dance City in professional and community networks and at events in the northeast; communicate and advocate for its plans and ambitions to the widest range of people including politicians, the media, funders, artists, audiences and the public.

Creative 

• Shape, co-create and communicate the creative vision for Dance City. 

• Oversee the development and delivery of a creative programme which appeals to a wide range of audiences, demonstrates excellence, and sets out to grow appetite and demand for diverse dance experiences. 

• Build and manage sustainable commercial and funding partnerships which will enhance the profile of the programme and enable the commissioning, programming and presentation of dance within and beyond Dance City.

• Oversee the evaluation of the programme, to ensure quality, to engage in reflection and implement learning with colleagues.

• Maintain an overview of the local and national dance ecology in order to inform advocacy and planning.

Brand, commercial performance and income 

• Oversee the design and delivery of effective marketing and communications strategies that are developed and effectively delivered, to retain existing and grow new audiences for dance in the northeast and to promote the Dance City brand.

• Be proactive in the development and delivery of effective fundraising and income generation strategies for Dance City, to ensure that contributed income grows and is diversified, and to develop commercial opportunities enabled by the building and programme. 

• Play an active role in identifying and approaching prospective donors, sponsors and funding partners.

• Develop, maintain, and strengthen relationships with existing and potential supporters and to lead on key public funding and donor relationships.

Finance and operations  

• Be accountable for the financial operation of the organisation, ensuring budgets are set and monitored, appropriate financial policies and procedures are in place, compliance with appropriate legal and fiscal frameworks is followed, and that there is timely reporting to the relevant funders and authorities.

• Oversee and ensure the smooth and efficient management of Dance City’s facilities and infrastructure.

• Ensure Dance City remains a visible champion of environmental responsibility.

• Ensure the organisation is fully compliant with all legal requirements, including health and safety, and that all staff are trained appropriately. 

People and culture 

• Set the tone for and model the organisational culture, be an inclusive and consultative leader, championing employee wellbeing and engagement. 

• Ensure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place for recruitment, induction, appraisals and the professional development of staff.

• Ensure the organisation upholds its principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, valuing the wellbeing of all colleagues.

Person specification  

Essential  

• Has held a senior role in a cultural venue or within an organisation with a substantial arts programme or partnerships; is well networked in and beyond the cultural and creative industries. 

• Understanding of the current landscape and eco-system in the cultural sector and awareness of local/national political initiatives that will impact on - and create opportunities for - Dance City and its partner organisations.

• Understanding of the legal, fiscal, social and political context within which the arts operate, and the contribution they make to health, education, social cohesion and civic pride.

• Understanding of the needs of dance as an art form and a commitment to best practice and to promoting inclusion and equality of opportunity.

• An inclusive leader with experience of overseeing organisational transformation and managing change. 

• A track record in relationship building, working in partnership with a range of funders, agencies and organisations, and of successful fundraising and income generation from a range of sources. 

• A strong advocate and compelling storyteller, able to network, represent the organisation, communicate its vision and inspire confidence among existing and potential peers and stakeholders.

• Strong financial literacy and skills, knowledge of charity governance and relevant financial policies and procedures; experience of senior financial accountability.

• Experience of working effectively with a Board of Directors, understanding of best practice in governance and organisational development.

• A commitment to living in the region, able to travel nationally and internationally, and to work some evenings and weekends where there is reasonable expectation to attend events.

Desirable 

• Experience of running a building with a diverse and impactful arts programme. 

• An extensive network in the cultural sector. 

• Experience of significant national/international cultural partnership projects. 

• Experience of managing significant public investment programmes such as ACE NPO, Creative Scotland RFO or equivalent.

Equity, diversity and inclusion 

At Dance City we believe that voices and perspectives from a range of backgrounds and lived experiences make our understanding of the world and the arts more relevant.

We believe that difference is our strength.

Therefore we actively encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and those that are under-represented in our city and region and in dance leadership. 

Friends of the Dales is seeking an outstanding Executive Director to lead our next chapter. We are an independent, dynamic and resilient charity working to protect and enhance the special landscapes, biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Yorkshire Dales, while supporting the wellbeing of local communities and encouraging people from all backgrounds to value, enjoy and protect this remarkable place.

This is an exciting opportunity for a values-driven leader to build on our strong reputation, recent strategic review and ambitious campaigning work. We are looking for someone who can combine strategic vision with hands-on leadership, bringing energy, credibility and expertise to a charity with a proud history and a growing future.

About Friends of the Dales

Friends of the Dales is an independent membership and campaigning charity dedicated to the Yorkshire Dales. We campaign on issues including nature recovery, wildlife, farming, access, housing, transport, climate resilience, landscape management and sustainable rural communities.

Founded in 1981, we are known for our critical and supportive local voice and our collaborative approach to campaigning and influencing policy. We work with partner organisations, local communities, trustees, volunteers and supporters to protect and improve the Dales for future generations.

We also work with the network of National Park Societies and Campaign for National Parks, and we have a strong commitment to widening diversity and inclusion across our charity and the communities we serve.

The Role

The Executive Director will provide strategic leadership, operational management and external representation for the charity. Reporting to the Chair of Trustees, you will be responsible for delivering the Board’s strategic direction and business plan, growing the supporter base, strengthening financial resilience and ensuring our campaigning remains impactful and aligned with our mission and values.

This is a varied and influential role requiring a confident, collaborative and hands-on leader who can balance strategic oversight with day-to-day delivery. You will work closely with trustees, staff, volunteers, members, supporters and external partners to help shape the future of the charity.

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking a candidate with:

● Senior leadership experience or aligned and transferable experience and skills in a charity, membership organisation or similar environment.

● Direct experience or transferable experience of campaigning, influencing, advocacy or policy work.

● Strong organisational leadership and operational management skills.

● Knowledge and experience of fundraising, membership growth, partnership working and charity operations.

● The ability to inspire staff, trustees, volunteers, members and supporters.

● A values-driven approach and a strong understanding of, or connection to, the Yorkshire Dales and the issues affecting it.

Experience in a similar setting may be transferable, and we welcome candidates who can demonstrate the skills, insight and leadership needed to succeed in the role.

Working Arrangements

This is a permanent role, offered as either:

● Part-time: 4 days per week, or.

● Full-time: 37 hours per week.

The salary is £50,000 per annum FTE, with part-time hours paid pro rata.

The role is based at Canal Wharf, Eshton Road, Gargrave, BD23 3PN, with some flexibility around working hours and location by agreement. Regular travel across the Yorkshire Dales and occasional evening and weekend working will be required. Ideally, the successful candidate will live in, or within approximately 30 miles of, the perimeter of the Yorkshire Dales.

We offer:

● 22 days annual leave, rising to 27 days after five years’ service, plus English bank holidays, pro rata for part-time hours.

● Additional paid leave over the Christmas and New Year office closure.

● An enhanced employer pension contribution of 5% via NEST.

Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK, as we are unable to offer sponsorship.

How to Apply

To apply please read the full candidate briefing - available on the Friends of the Dales website - and submit:

● A current CV, including any gaps in employment.

● A supporting statement of no more than 2,000 words, explaining why you wish to apply and how you meet the criteria in the person specification.

● Details of two referees, including one from your current or most recent senior leadership role, with confirmation that you are happy for us to contact them if shortlisted.

● Any dates when you may be unavailable or difficult to contact.

● Any adjustments or accommodations you may require at the interview or presentation stage.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a one-day selection event in the Yorkshire Dales, including a short presentation and panel interview. Full details of the presentation topic and interview questions will be shared in advance.

Recruitment Timetable

● Monday 18 May 2026, 5pm: Closing date.

● Week commencing 25 May 2026: Review of applications and shortlisting.

● Week commencing 15 June 2026: Shortlisted candidates invited to the Yorkshire Dales selection day.

● Week commencing 29 June 2026: Candidates informed of outcome.

Equal Opportunities

Friends of the Dales is committed to building a workforce that reflects the community it serves. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and all sections of the community, and we will respect the privacy of any initial approach or expression of interest, whether formal or informal.

Informal Discussion

For an informal and confidential conversation about the role, please contact Jonathan Riley, Chair of Trustees after reviewing the appointment brief.

Tender is a nationwide charity harnessing the power of drama and the arts to educate children, young people and adults about healthy relationships. Our innovative, interactive approach empowers children, young people and adults with the skills and knowledge to recognise unhealthy relationships, nurture healthy ones, and seek support if they need help.

The Finance & Operations Officer plays a central role in ensuring the smooth financial and operational running of Tender, supporting the organisation’s ability to deliver its mission effectively. The role spans core finance functions—including payroll, payments, reconciliations, budgeting support and financial reporting—ensuring that Tender maintains robust financial controls and compliance across all statutory and regulatory requirements. It also involves close collaboration with suppliers, funders, auditors and internal teams to support the Finance Director in producing financial plans, forecasts, annual accounts and audit preparation.

Alongside finance, the post holder is responsible for managing key operational areas including HR administration, ICT coordination, office management, and internal communication processes. This includes overseeing recruitment and onboarding processes, maintaining HR policies and procedures, ensuring effective cross-team collaboration, managing external service providers, and maintaining an efficient administrative and operational environment. The role requires someone who can work autonomously, use sound judgement, implement effective processes, and ensure alignment of systems across the organisation.

A successful Finance & Operations Officer will also contribute to organisational development by ensuring that policies, procedures and workflows are up to date, compliant and reflect best practice. With responsibilities that touch every part of the charity, the post holder acts as a vital hub for coordination, problem‑solving and continuous improvement, helping Tender maintain a high‑functioning, values‑driven working environment.

To be successful in this role, in the first 6 months you will have:

• Established reliable financial processes by ensuring accurate and timely payroll, payment cycles, reconciliations and financial reporting, maintaining full compliance with Tender’s financial controls and statutory requirements.
• Strengthened core operational systems by updating and consolidating HR, ICT, office management and policy frameworks, ensuring staff understand and follow consistent organisational processes.
• Improved cross‑team coordination by streamlining internal communications and embedding efficient administrative workflows, enabling smoother collaboration across finance, HR and operational functions.

Please refer to the full job description and person specification in the full recruitment pack for further details.