Director of policy jobs in saffron walden, essex

Are you a people-person with a passion for wildlife? We’re on the hunt for a driven and creative individual to inspire action and generate vital support for The Wildlife Trust BCN. As an Events and Promotions Officer, you’ll be a driving force behind connecting people with nature and inspiring lasting support, from engaging the public at events to guiding new supporters into our journey and keep our mission alive both online and on the ground. We are looking for an individual who is enthusiastic about encouraging members of the public to support our work knowing, that through this, you can make a real and lasting impact to local wildlife and wild spaces. If you’re passionate, proactive, and eager to make a meaningful difference, we’d love to hear from you!

The Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire has over 38,000 members and is looking for someone to join the Supporter Engagement Team to focus on developing and delivering event and engagement opportunities to maximise income and membership growth. The role includes lead generation and membership recruitment activity. This is an excellent opportunity to bring your experience to a position where you can contribute directly to a cause that you are passionate about. We have been protecting wildlife and wild spaces for over 60 years and are part of the largest conservation charity in the country providing secure environments for a diverse range of wildlife to thrive. We need our members now, more than ever, to help us continue to tackle the climate and nature crisis so that we might all enjoy a wilder future.

In return we will offer:

• Full induction training, ongoing support, and regular team/work party days
• Ability to work in a variety of environments providing strong job satisfaction with an amazing local Charity
• Travel expenses, branded clothing, use of a Pool Vehicle
• A good holiday package and a pension scheme

Travelling across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Northamptonshire, you’ll bring your passion to life at events, nature reserves, and visitor centres using a fully-branded gazebo and interactive displays. You’ll design and deliver a programme of engaging wildlife-themed talks and walks, support flagship events like our AGM, and contribute to both public and corporate engagement. Working closely with colleagues, you’ll help develop systems and internal resources that ensure consistent branding and powerful messaging, boosting supporter engagement, generating vital income, and strengthening our connection with the communities in our three counties.

The main objectives of the role are to:

• Inspire and engage the public by promoting the mission and work of the Trust.
• Generate leads from public interactions, guiding them into our supporter journeys and recruiting new members and supporters for the Wildlife Trust for BCN.
• Support the Corporate Partnership team by participating in regular events, work parties, walks, and talks.
• Work with the Supporter Engagement Manager and the Communications Team to review and update the membership sections of the Trust website.

Please note that this role will require lone working and some weekend and evening working.

Working Hours:

Full Time (37.5 hours per week). Part time hours may be considered.

Type of Contract:

Fixed Term (2 years - may become permanent upon evaluation)

Closing date:

Monday 2nd June 2025, 11:59pm

Interview date:

Thursday 12th June 2025

Please identify your notice period and salary expectation in your cover letter.

Note: Unfortunately we cannot support applications from international candidates at this time

As one of the largest federated charities in the UK, with arguably greater reach into the lives of families and educational settings than any other non-Government organisation, Parentkind is on a bold and urgent mission: to support, champion, and empower parents to be partners in their children’s education and wellbeing. To help deliver this, Parentkind's fundraising efforts helped grow Parentkind's income from £1.5m to £10m (including in-kind donations) between 2022 and 2024.

Although best known for our support of almost 24,000 Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs), Parent Councils, and Schools, helping them build strong school communities whilst they raise over £130 million each year to enhance children’s education, our work stretches far beyond the school gates. Parentkind is building a powerful movement that recognises parental engagement not as a nicety, but a necessity.

In recent years, families have faced a series of compounding challenges: the cost-of-living crisis, rising child poverty, and deepening educational inequality. These pressures have left many parents struggling to meet basic needs—let alone feel confident engaging in their child’s learning journey.  Parentkind has responded to this moment with compassion, agility and purpose, through a series of transformative campaigns, resources, and partnerships. Our recent transformational journey has seen Parentkind’s network grow by more than 70% of schools, and the income Parentkind has delivered both for itself and for its members by more than 550%. 

Our No Cold Child initiative, launched with FatFace, stepped in to address a stark statistic: over 150,000 children in the UK do not own a winter coat due to poverty. Through our trusted relationships with schools, we distributed 10,000 warm, high-quality coats worth £600,000 to the children who needed them most. Shortlisted for two Business Charity Awards, the campaign has been praised not just for providing warmth, but for restoring dignity, inclusion, and school readiness to thousands of children.

Our collaboration with Asda on Cashpot for Schools is another example of unlocking support at scale. This innovative community-led funding model allows shoppers to nominate and fund their local schools simply through everyday spending. In just the last year, this campaign has generated £5.78 million for schools—supporting everything from basic classroom supplies to vital extracurricular programmes and pupil wellbeing initiatives. Also shortlisted for a Business Charity Award, it is already a model for community-driven philanthropy.

Meanwhile, our All Dressed Up campaign—developed with World Book Day and Rubies Masquerade—confronted the often-overlooked issue of financial exclusion on key celebration days. More than 100,000 free dressing up costumes worth £1.34 million were delivered to children from low-income families. By enabling participation in events like World Book Day, we helped spark imagination, joy, and belonging for children who might otherwise feel left out—boosting self-esteem and supporting a positive connection to learning.

Alongside these national campaigns, Parentkind supports families year-round through a growing suite of programmes designed to inform, prepare and empower parents. Our Be School Ready programme offers crucial guidance and confidence to parents preparing their children for the leap into primary education. With a mix of practical advice, developmental tips, and reassurance, through the distribution of 135,000 copies of Be School Ready and an online campaign, it supports families at one of the most formative moments in their child’s life.

We also deliver a wide-ranging series of live expert webinars and parent-friendly resources, covering topics such as managing anxiety, supporting special educational needs, navigating school transitions, and building home-school partnerships. These resources—developed in consultation with experts and rooted in lived parent experience—equip families to feel informed and empowered, no matter what challenges arise.

This month, we launched our Parent-Friendly Schools Accreditation Programme, designed to formally recognise schools that go above and beyond in fostering positive, inclusive relationships with parents. The accreditation celebrates schools that actively listen to parent voices, make engagement easy and accessible, and embed family partnership in their culture. It is a practical and inspiring tool to drive long-term change in the sector and offers a roadmap for schools wanting to strengthen their community.

Our work is grounded in evidence. Every year, we conduct the UK’s largest parental engagement study: the National Parent Survey. In 2024, over five thousand parents participated, providing invaluable insight into what families think about the education system. The findings are fed directly into government consultations and have already influenced national debates on school funding, attendance, mental health support, SEND provision, and curriculum reform. We believe passionately that parents must not be the missing voice in education policy—and we work tirelessly to ensure their views shape the decisions that affect their children’s lives.

Today, through Parentkind’s federated network of more than 130,000 parent and teacher volunteers, our work impacts the lives of millions of parents, carers, teachers and children throughout the UK through our membership, programmes, advocacy and campaigns. But we know we can—and must—do more.

We’re looking for someone with passion, purpose, and creativity—someone who understands that a warm coat, a World Book Day costume, or a parent’s voice at the table can all be catalysts for lifelong change.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our growing Fundraising Team and play a leading role in shaping a brand-new trust fundraising programme from the ground up. We’re looking for someone with experience in securing income from trusts and foundations—someone who’s a confident communicator, both in writing and in person, and who brings a curious and strategic mindset to prospect research.

You’ll help craft compelling cases for support and develop a portfolio of proposals and reports that showcase the impact of our work—amplifying the voices of parents and schools and demonstrating how Parentkind is driving positive change. Strong attention to detail is essential, along with the ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.

If you believe, like we do, that when parents matter, children succeed, we’d love to hear from you.

You’ll have:

• Proven experience in trust and statutory fundraising, securing five- and six-figure grants.
• Demonstrable success in developing compelling proposals and reports for funders.
• Strong relationship management skills with a track record of stewarding long-term partnerships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey impact effectively.
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Knowledge of the education, family support, or community development sectors.

You’ll get:

• To join a fast-moving charity with an exciting future
• To build your own team, playing a key role in driving forward the charity’s strategy and shaping our fundraising activity
• Remote working full-time with a great online team culture
• 25 days holiday in addition to UK public holidays.

How to apply

A full candidate pack is attached on this listing. To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter outlining your motivations for applying for the role and how you meet the Person Specification.

Interviews will be held on a rolling basis via video conference.

Parentkind is committed to a policy of equal opportunities and we ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and equally.  We would be grateful if you would complete the equal opportunities monitoring questions when applying online to help us check that we are carrying out our policy of equal opportunities for all people.  The information will be kept confidential and will be separate from your application.  It will have no bearing on your application.

Parentkind is committed to meeting the needs of applicants with disabilities.  Please let us know if you require any adjustments to your application or interview process.

Who are we?

Founded in 1996 as the Sleep Apnoea Trust Association, a charitable incorporated trust, we're a patient support charity run mainly by volunteer patients

Be a part of our mission in working to improve the lives of sleep apnoea patients, their partners and families

Key duties and reponsibilities:

Management Role

· Based on the policies of the charity as defined by the Trustees Board (created Oct 2022 AGM), manage the affairs of the charity with due respect for its heritage, status and independence.

· Within those defined policies, take decisions that allow the development of its business activities, liaising with other Trustees as necessary, and report to the Trustees on a regular basis.

· When necessary, liaise on allocation of duties to other Trustees on a cooperative basis.

· Represent the charity at occasional public events and meetings with collaborative partners and in negotiations, e.g. NICE, ARTP, Sleep Clinics.

· Act as main point of external contact and manage that contact as appropriate.

· Take purchasing decisions within the defined responsibility of the position.

· Modernise and develop the SATA business on as cost efficient basis as possible — goal is generally self-financing.

· Explore business opportunities as appropriate. 

· Identify risk, consult with other officers and recommend action for Board decision.

· Finalise move to paperless operation.

Administrative Duties

· Arrange Trustee Board Meetings.

· Manage Membership Database.

· Administer Membership Renewals.

· Register & acknowledge new memberships.

· Handle resignations, deaths and other membership issues with appropriate respect.

· Acknowledge Donations.

· Administer Gift Aid claim with Treasurer.

For the full job description and further information, please refer to the attachement below. 

We are looking to appoint an exceptional individual to join our team of six Strategic Partnership Advisors across England. In this role, you will support key partners, including Active Partnerships, National Governing Bodies of Sport, local authorities, and leisure providers to become more effective in their role of enabling more disabled people to be active.

You will possess a strong understanding of the sport and activity sector, including its operations, and be able to advocate for improvements that help more disabled people become active. Additionally, you will be aware of the broader systems and barriers that disabled people encounter in sports and activities, as well as organisations such as disabled people’s user-led organisations and various charities, to build relationships and foster effective cross-sector partnerships.

We are looking for an individual with experience of working strategically at a place based and/or locality level within the South West region. Someone who can positively influence local developments, systems and investments to tackle the inequalities disabled people face in sport and activity through inclusive practice.

The successful candidate will work remotely from home and be based in the South West region. This role will involve travel across the region and occasional travel to our Loughborough and Manchester offices.

This role is full-time (36 hours) and permanent.

We offer 26.5 days of annual leave, including birthday leave, plus bank holidays. Activity Alliance also closes between Christmas and New Year which means that employees are not expected to work during this time and they are not required to use their annual leave allowance to have this time free from work.

Activity Alliance currently offers the following benefits:

• Hybrid working
• Time off in lieu
• A contributory pension scheme (employee 6%, employer 9%)
• Childcare vouchers
• Cycle to work scheme
• Eye care
• Employee engagement initiatives such as away days
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme
• Menopause policy
• Enhanced sickness pay
• Group Income Protection
• Death in service
• Training and development opportunities

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, with around 300 people diagnosed every day. The Macular Society is the only charity determined to beat the fear and isolation of macular disease with world class research, and the best advice and support.

To support people affected by macular disease now, the Macular Society provides a range of support, information and services. Our research programme is focused on finding new treatments and a cure to Beat Macular Disease forever.

This exciting role is responsible for delivering income from a range of donors and prospects, with a focus on trusts and foundations, lottery and statutory sources, as well as HNWI. We are looking for an ambitious and strategic fundraiser with a proven track record of raising significant funds from charitable trusts and foundations, lottery and statutory sources as well as HNWI, who, alongside our existing team, will help to grow and develop this area of fundraising for the Macular Society. The post holder will have a proven eye for detail, an analytical nature, first class relationship management skills and a flair for writing successful applications.

In return, we provide a great working culture – we do something worthwhile and are proud to work together to Beat Macular Disease – as recognised by our inclusion in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2023 list. 

We offer flexible working options, 26 days annual leave, rising to 27 after one years’ service, the ability to buy or sell annual leave, supportive family policies, and 6% pension contribution.

We are passionate about treating people fairly and as equals, doing so is instinctive to us. To Beat Macular Disease for all we know we have work to do. That’s why we are keen to hear from people of all backgrounds who have the skills and experience we are looking for. We particularly encourage applications from people from under-represented groups, to help ensure what we do and how we do it is inclusive – for everyone.

Head of Grants 

Are you a visionary leader who can turn ideas into reality? Do you have the drive to manage complex projects, inspire teams and create lasting impact on a national scale? Do you love giving charities money? If so, we want to hear from you!

This is a remote working role offering part-time hours, on a permanent basis. 

Position: Head of Grants 

Location: Remote/London

Hours: Part-time (4 days per week)

Salary: £50,000 - £55,000 pro rata

Contract: Permanent

Benefits Include: 25 days per year (pro rata – excluding bank holidays), employer pension contribution of 5% into a personal pension (which does not have to be matched by the employee)

Closing Date: 27th May 2025

About the Role

This role is key to shaping how the organisation maximises impact over the next 5 years, delivering on ambitions for the 2024-2029 Strategy. The aspiration is to help 10,000 young people at risk or experiencing homelessness, to reach their full potential.

By working with key players in the youth homelessness landscape, like-minded organisations, and embedding the voices and experiences of young people in this work, you will help maximise social impact and deliver £150m in social value by March 2029. 

You will ensure the charity is the best possible grant funder in the field, thoughtful, diligent, transparent and efficient, as it works with the very best charities across the country deliver vital support to young people facing homelessness.

You will be in charge of grant programme design, development, and delivery in line with the new strategy.  You will have the opportunity to work on new programmes and ideas, and to gather data and insight from this vital work (and other sources) that will help both future grant-making and our influencing work nationally.

About You

Whilst grant-making experience would be helpful, what truly matters is your ability to strategically lead and drive projects that deliver impact. You’ll be at the forefront of developing and delivering new programmes, ensuring they align with key targets while bringing innovative ideas to life.

This role is not just about achieving KPIs, it’s about leading teams to achieve results. You will have experience of delivering presentations, developing ideas and projects collaboratively, and using data-driven insights to shape future projects and influence decision-making at a regional or national level. Strong project management, monitoring, and evaluation skills are key in this role, as are those of team- and partnership- working.

If you are a senior leader looking for your next role, then we would love to hear from you. 

About the Organisation

The charity has been around since 1986, created by and working with the UK property industry to try and harness a collective desire to do good. Since 2016, the focus has been exclusively on creating a corporate movement within and across the industry to tackle and end youth homelessness. 

Additional Benefits

• Opportunities for flexible working 

• Free annual Flu’ jabs and annual sight tests

• Cycle to Work Scheme (salary sacrifice)

• ½ day a month entitlement to volunteer for a charity of your choice, in work time

• Interest-free Annual Travel Card Loans

• A Professional Development Fund 

• Commitment to wellbeing (we’re signatories of Mind’s Time to Change Pledge)

• An Employee Assistance Programme 

• Private Health Insurance with Vitality (small employee contribution required).

You may have experience in other roles such as Grants, Impact, Grants and Impact, Head of Grants, Head of Impact, Head of Grants and Impact, Impact and Innovation, Director of Grants, Director of Impact, Director of Grants and Impact.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation

We are working in partnership with SongBird Survival, an independent charity working to solve the ecological crisis for songbirds through scientific research, to secure their new Scientific Research and Impact Manager.

Since 2000, SongBird Survival has been fighting for a better future for UK songbirds, and they are the only national UK charity solely dedicated to make a positive impact for songbirds in the face of this devastating ecological emergency. Their goals are to drive impactful conservation through scientific research, protect songbirds by raising awareness and inspiring action, and safeguarding the most at-risk songbird species in the UK. SongBird Survival do this by commissioning independent scientific research into the causes of the catastrophic decline in songbird numbers, translating research findings into actionable strategies, which aim to make a tangible difference in the protection and preservation of songbird populations. They also campaign for change, working with other NGOs and policymakers.

The Scientific Research and Impact Manager role is at the heart of SongBird Survival’s mission, ensuring that their research not only advances scientific understanding but also influences policy change, engages stakeholders, and strengthens communications and fundraising strategies. The postholder will oversee research projects, build key partnerships, and turn findings into practical conservation strategies. 

The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate:

• Degree level education in Ecology or an appropriate discipline or equivalent experience, with comprehensive knowledge of songbird and other small bird ecology.
• Knowledge and understanding of how scientific research is commissioned and delivered, as well as the ability to assimilate and appraise relevant information.
• Track record of translating scientific findings into policy, communications and stakeholder engagement.
• Knowledge of UK environmental policy and its impact on conservation efforts. 

For more information, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law. 

Hours: 0.8-1.0 FTE (Full time is 37.5 hours with use of flexi hours)
Location: Remote/home working with occasional travel and visits to SongBird Survival office in Diss Norfolk.

Closing date: 21 May 2025

Charisma interviews must be completed by EOD 28th May in preparation for submission of the shortlist on the 29th. 

Following the return of our co-founder Becca Dean MBE as CEO, we're excited to be recruiting for several new roles as we move into the next chapter of our journey. Having recently celebrated our 12th birthday, we're more determined than ever to reach even more girls and young women, and we’re building a brilliant team to help us do just that. If you're passionate about empowering the next generation, we’d love to hear from you.

THE ROLE

The Deputy CEO will play a pivotal leadership role, working closely with the CEO to drive the organisation’s strategic vision, operational excellence, programme leadership, and financial sustainability. As a key leader, you will oversee critical functions, ensure high-impact programme delivery, and strengthen partnerships that expand our reach and influence. You will also act as a key external representative of The Girls’ Network, advocating for our mission and developing relationships with funders, partners, and stakeholders. Additionally, you will deputise for the CEO as required, ensuring continuity of leadership and decision-making in their absence.

Key Responsibilities

Deputy CEO Leadership

• Deputise for the CEO as required, leading key meetings, making strategic decisions, and ensuring seamless leadership continuity.
• Support the CEO in monitoring and reporting against The Girls’ Network’s operational performance, ensuring KPIs are being delivered in line with Trustees’ expectations.
• Support on budget planning and cost control, ensuring financial sustainability.
• Build positive Board relationships and act as an ambassador for The Girls’ Network.
• Ensure a crisis communications strategy is in place and manage risk monitoring and mitigation.
• Lead, support, and motivate staff, fostering a culture of high performance.
• Oversee internal communications, ensuring staff are informed and engaged.

Strategic Leadership & Organisational Growth

• Develop and deliver strategy and operational plans in collaboration with the CEO.
• Work with the Head of Fundraising to ensure sufficient income to sustain and grow programmes.
• Act as joint lead for organisational safeguarding (with the Head of Programme Delivery & Development), ensuring policies and procedures are in place and followed.
• Represent The Girls’ Network externally, speaking at events and strengthening strategic partnerships.
• Stay up-to-date on national and regional policy developments affecting girls, mentoring, and education.
• Embed a girl-centred approach to organisational development and ensure programme impact is maximised through innovation and the use of technology.
• Report to the CEO and Board on programmes and safeguarding.

Programme Leadership & Delivery

• Provide strategic leadership for programmes, ensuring stability and growth in existing regions and identifying opportunities for expansion.
• Lead on innovation, piloting new programme elements, systems, and processes to enhance efficiency, impact, and revenue generation.
• Ensure programme decisions are informed by data, research, and organisational learning.
• Oversee quality assurance and impact measurement, ensuring consistency across regions and effective reporting on mentee outcomes.
• Oversee programme pipeline, targets, and income generation from schools, reporting to the Board.
• Maximise relationships with key stakeholder groups (mentees, schools, partners, ambassadors, and mentors) to enhance engagement, experience, and retention.
• Lead, support, and motivate the Programme Delivery Directorate, aligning OKRs with organisational goals.

Programme Delivery & Reporting

• Stay informed about best practices in mentoring, gender equality, and social mobility to ensure maximum programme impact.
• Use data and feedback to continuously develop and refine programmes.
• Ensure robust processes and procedures are in place to optimise resources and impact.
• Oversee the mentor network, ensuring engagement, retention, and a high-quality experience for both mentors and mentees.
• Support the Ambassador Programme Lead in integrating the Ambassador Programme with the mentoring programme.
• Report quarterly to the CEO on programme KPIs, including participant numbers, impact metrics, stakeholder perceptions, and regional variations.
• Prepare quarterly reports for the CEO and Trustees.

Management & Training

• Manage the Senior Programme Team, overseeing performance, development, and wellbeing.
• Support programme teams to deliver growth and impact targets with consistency.
• Ensure the Ambassador Programme is successfully implemented and contributes to an engaged network of former mentees.

Safeguarding Leadership

• Serve as Joint Safeguarding Lead, with accountability for safeguarding decisions.
• Oversee Designated Safeguarding Officers and ensure all policies and procedures reflect best practice.
• Review and approve key training materials, particularly those shared externally.
• Maintain oversight of safeguarding systems, including managing the safeguarding phone and any related rota.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE

Essential skills, knowledge and attributes

• Proven senior leadership experience, ideally within a non-profit, education, or youth-focused organisation.
• Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to drive organisational growth and impact.
• Experience managing programmes, operations, and teams at a senior level.
• Track record of securing and managing funding, including corporate, trusts, and foundations.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills, with experience in stakeholder engagement and external representation.
• Strong financial acumen and experience overseeing budgets and financial planning.
• Passionate about social mobility and gender equality, with a deep commitment to The Girls’ Network’s mission.

Desirable

• Experience of working with mentoring programmes or youth-focused initiatives.
• Knowledge of policy and advocacy related to education, social mobility, or gender equality.
• Experience working with Boards of Trustees or governance structures.

WHY JOIN US?

• Opportunity to play a crucial leadership role in a high-impact, mission-driven organisation.
• Collaborative, ambitious, and values-led culture.
• Flexible working environment with a commitment to staff wellbeing.
• The chance to make a real difference in the lives of thousands of girls across the UK.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early application is encouraged. If a high number of applications are received, this advert will be closed early (with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice). We regret that due to time constraints, we will not contact you if you are not selected for interview.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to respond to individual requests for further information about the role.

Visit our website for the candidate pack and further details on how to apply.

About the role

We’re recruiting for a Head of Retail Operations for our Southern Division. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of driving success within five regions, leading a team of dedicated Regional Managers across 85 shops with around 270 colleagues.

This isn’t just about overseeing operations – it’s about owning them. You’ll have the freedom and autonomy to shape the strategy for your division, making key decisions on everything from financial performance to people development. You’ll build a values-led, inclusive culture – one where our people feel appreciated, respected and supported.

As part of the senior leadership team, you’ll play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of Mind Retail, bringing fresh ideas and driving initiatives that make a real impact. And because every pound we make in our shops helps support Mind’s mission, the work you do will have a lasting and meaningful impact.

This is a role for an ambitious leader – someone ready to take ownership, think strategically and inspire a team to do great things.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is a natural leader, passionate about creating high-performing teams and building an inclusive culture
• Has senior-level experience leading multi-site, large-scale retail operations and knows how to drive commercial success
• Understands retail finances inside out, from managing P&L’s, to spotting opportunities for growth
• Thinks strategically, but isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and make things happen
• Embodies our values and behaviours

Ready to make a difference?

Join Mind Retail. Join the fight for mental health.

Due to our commitment to work/life balance, you must live within reasonable travelling distance of the division. The geography of the division covers the South East, South West, South Wales, Norfolk and Suffolk.

Mind Retail reserve the right to close the vacancy to applications earlier, should we receive a high volume of strong candidates. Therefore we encourage an early application.

About our benefits

As Head of Operations, you’ll receive:

• A competitive salary of £59,753 per year
• A company car
• A strong commitment to work-life balance with a working pattern that supports this, with the occasional weekend working
• 25 days’ paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays
• Development workshops & courses, to help build your career
• Comprehensive, personalised induction programmes, tailored to your role when you join us
• A huge variety of additional qualifications & development programmes for anyone looking to grow their skills
• Family friendly policies & enhanced pay
• A competitive pension scheme & life assurance, available to all our employees
• 25% staff discount in all Mind shops
• Access to exclusive discounts at over 160 retailers through our employee savings app
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Interest free season ticket loan

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating an income of around £25 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we’re going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve. There’s never been a more exciting time to join us.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

We value the power of diversity. We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We are creating an inclusive working environment where everyone is appreciated for being authentic and bringing their whole selves to work.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working with us to share this commitment. In line with our Safer Recruitment policy, the successful candidate will be required to provide references and will be expected to undertake an enhanced DBS check with a check of the Children's Barred List and/or ‘Work with Adults' workforce check based on their role and responsibilities. A DBS check is a process to check someone's criminal record (if they have any). A Barred List is a list of people who are barred from working with children. To enable you to predetermine what might be disclosed in your DBS check, please use this disclosure calculator.

Mind Retail is an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applicants from all communities. We are committed to the fair treatment of our staff, potential staff and volunteers, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, responsibilities for dependants, age, physical/mental disability or offending background.

This job vacancy is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. 

More details

For more information and a full person specification, please review the job description.

The Casework and Research Manager will lead Humanists International's efforts in supporting Humanists at Risk through strategic engagement, research, and the management of key publications, particularly the Freedom of Thought Report. This role involves coordinating all Humanists at Risk support in accordance with the organization's new two-tiered strategy (https://humanists.international/blog/a-necessary-evolution-in-our-support-for-humanists-at-risk/), direct liaison with stakeholders, contributing to organizational strategy, and line management responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and oversee the delivery of General Support to Humanists International's Members and Associates worldwide, including the provision of advice, guidance, and signposting to relevant resources.

• Coordinate the provision of direct, individualized casework support to leaders and officers of Humanists International's Member and Associate organizations who are facing significant risk due to their humanist activities or identity. This includes assessing needs, developing support plans, and ensuring timely and effective intervention.

• Develop and implement training programs for members and associates to enhance their capacity to support humanists at risk within their communities.

• Foster and strengthen partnerships with other human rights organizations to maximize the collective impact of our support efforts.

• Contribute to the development and maintenance of a comprehensive online resource library providing information on safety, security, advocacy, and support for humanists globally.

• Liaise and collaborate with staff in other humanist organizations to ensure coordinated and effective support for individuals at risk, aligning efforts with the new strategic framework.

• Develop and deliver fortnightly briefings to internal staff on relevant casework and risk-related matters, including updates on the implementation of the new support tiers.

• Prepare and present regular reports, statistical analyses, and updates on Humanists at Risk, and the effectiveness of the new support strategy, to the CEO and Board of Directors.

• Represent Humanists International at key stakeholder meetings, including platforms such as the EU Temporary Relocation Platform, building and maintaining effective relationships while articulating our revised approach to support.

• Lead the collection of compelling testimony and documentation for the Humanists at Risk campaign and the Freedom of Thought Report.

• Manage, edit, and oversee the entire production cycle of the Freedom of Thought Report, ensuring its accuracy, quality, and timely publication.

• Provide overall project management and strategic direction for the Freedom of Thought Report, including budget oversight and timeline management.

• Work collaboratively with the Fundraising and Communications Officer to ensure the research and findings effectively inform fundraising and public awareness initiatives.

• Directly line-manage and mentor the Freedom of Thought Report Researcher, providing guidance and support to ensure high-quality research output.

• Act as a representative for their area of work on the Management Team, actively contributing to strategic planning, policy development, best practice implementation, budgeting processes, and organizational decision-making, particularly in relation to the Humanists at Risk program.

• Manage and monitor relevant project budgets, ensuring responsible and effective resource allocation for both general support initiatives and any limited individual casework.

• Provide direct line management to staff, consultants, paid interns, and volunteers as required, fostering a productive and supportive working environment.

• Attend relevant conferences, seminars, and other events to raise awareness of the challenges faced by Humanists at Risk and promote Humanists International's work, clearly articulating our new strategic approach to support.

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Education: A Master's degree in International Law, International Relations, Human Rights, or a closely related field; OR a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field with a minimum of 3 years of demonstrable experience in a related role.

• Strategic Understanding: A clear understanding of strategic planning and the ability to implement organizational strategies within their area of work.

• Legal Expertise: Excellent understanding of international human rights law, and refugee and asylum law and frameworks.

• Communication Skills: Exceptional written communication skills and an excellent command of English (native or near-native proficiency).

• Language Skills: Fluency in other languages, particularly French, Spanish, or Arabic, is a significant asset.

• Casework Coordination/Management Experience: Proven experience in coordinating or managing casework or support programs, ideally within a human rights, equality, or asylum-related context.

• NGO Knowledge: A strong understanding of the landscape of international non-governmental organizations, their roles, and their operational scope.

• Analytical and Synthesis Skills: Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex information from various sources and communicate it clearly and effectively to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

• Analytical Skills: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Research and Drafting Skills: Strong research, analytical, and drafting skills with a proven ability to produce high-quality written materials.

Desired:

• Humanist Knowledge: Experience with or a strong understanding of humanism and the role and objectives of humanist organizations.

• Alignment with Values: Excellent understanding of, and demonstrable sympathy with, the philosophy, values, and policies of Humanists International.

• Organizational Skills: Highly organized, efficient, and able to work independently, managing multiple priorities effectively.

• Communication Style: A clear, persuasive, and confident communicator with strong interpersonal skills.

Purpose
This vital role works alongside the Head of Philanthropy to help build and grow our philanthropic partnerships over the next five years and beyond. As well as building upon current relationships, you will identify, research and cultivate relationships with charitable Trusts and Foundations as well as major donors to raise both restricted and unrestricted income.

Responsibilities and areas of work
This important role will focus primarily on Trust Fundraising but will also encompass Major Donor Fundraising. It will seek to identify new high-level donors, as well to develop existing relationships with our generous supporters. Working closely with the Head of Philanthropy, other team members and external consultants, and in collaboration with our colleagues in the
Programmes Team, the Senior Philanthropy Officer will focus on building our trust portfolio – with a focus on donors giving £5k - £100k per year

1. New business acquisition:
a) Researching new individuals and trusts to build a prospect list for future funders, using our database (Salesforce), available lists and external databases. Assessing the potential for active, lapsed and prospective donors to support CBM and recording accordingly.
b) Recommending tactical next steps for engagement with new individuals and trusts, for approval by the Head of Philanthropy.
2. Stewardship and cultivation of current and active donors:
a) Developing and implementing tailored stewardship plans, so that individuals / trusts are engaged in a bespoke manner, and that application and reporting deadlines are met.
b) Leading on the production and submission of applications, proposals and initial approaches (by post, email and, to a lesser degree, phone) and following up as required.
c) Reporting to donors in a formal or informal way, as appropriate, to ensure they are kept up to date with CBM and project developments                                                                                                                                                               d)Organising, facilitating and attending face-to-face and online meetings with high-level donors/ trusts, including organising dates and venues, and creating Meeting Briefs for all attendees to ensure positive outcomes.

3. Proposal and Report Writing
a) Designing and crafting compelling proposals, reports, project timelines and budgets that meet the bespoke needs of donors whilst meeting the needs of CBM and our Programme delivery colleagues, within agreed deadlines.
b) Working with members of the Programmes Team to ensure the accuracy of proposals /reports, and with members of the Fundraising & Communications Team to ensure consistency of messaging.
c) Working with the Philanthropy & Partnerships Team to develop new projects/ themes/
appeals for potential projects.

4. Other Team Responsibilities:
a) Helping to develop the Annual Forecast Budget for the Team, and providing updates on the pipeline and progress against targets.
b) Ensuring all information, donor activity is recorded and kept up-to-date on our database to fully-inform any approaches / meetings.
c) Providing proof-reading and copy-editing support to colleagues.
d) Monitoring the activity of related organisations and the fundraising sector, identifying changes, predicting trends and making recommendations as necessary.
e) Helping to develop a culture of enthusiasm and success, reflecting the ambitions of CBM, and promoting positive working and innovation.
f) Ensuring that the values of CBM UK are understood by external partners and always reflected in communications.
g) Carrying out any additional duties as required by the Head of Philanthropy and Director of Fundraising, Impact & Communications

Please read the Recruitment Pack for full details. 

A unique opportunity has arisen to join SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, as the Community Engagement Manager for Scotland.

About the role

In this new and pivotal role, you will lead efforts to grow awareness, engagement, and income generation through a vibrant network of volunteer-led branches across  Scotland. As the primary point of contact and support for these branches, you'll play a vital role in empowering volunteers and fostering a sense of community and belonging throughout the region.

Working closely with the wider regional team, you will help deliver SSAFA’s new community engagement strategy — a central part of an exciting period of transformation and strategic growth for the charity.

Whilst the post is homebased, to be eligible for this role you are required to live in Scotland.

The role involves extensive travel within the region and may require occasional evening or weekend work at short notice. A company car can be provided to support this.

About the team

With the support of the Regional Manager – Casework and Community Engagement, this role plays a key part in establishing, coordinating, and leading a team of Community Engagement Volunteers across the Scotland.

The primary focus is to drive awareness, increase fundraising, and strengthen engagement in alignment with the strategic direction set by the Director of Welfare Operations.

You will work collaboratively with other regionally based Community Engagement Managers and strategic partners across the Fundraising, Marketing, and Communications directorate to help shape policies and guidance for branch activities,

The role involves regular meetings, both in-person and via Microsoft Teams, and you will benefit from a comprehensive support package including training, mentoring, and ongoing professional development.

About you

You will be an exceptional individual in order to lead this exciting initiative during a critical period of change. The ideal candidate will be a driven and highly motivated professional with a strong track record in fundraising, a solid understanding of fundraising regulations, and proven experience in leading and supporting volunteers in their efforts.

You will have excellent relationship management skills and a deep understanding of volunteer engagement and development. You will be a natural communicator with demonstrated success working with volunteers; experience in volunteer recruitment, induction, and best practice would be a strong advantage.

You will be a confident and credible networker, capable of representing SSAFA to a wide range of external stakeholders, building strong partnerships and enhancing the charity’s profile across Scotland — all while operating remotely as part of a collaborative and regionally dispersed team.

About SSAFA 

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is a trusted source of support for the Armed Forces community in their time of need. In 2023 our trained teams of volunteers and employees helped more than 53,000 people, including veterans, serving personnel (regulars and reserves) and their families.

SSAFA understands that behind every uniform is a person. And we are here for that person and their family, any time they need us and in any way they need us.

Diversity and Inclusion at SSAFA

SSAFA exists to support a diverse range of beneficiaries within the armed forces community, and we believe diversity within our teams is key to ensuring we can deliver our services effectively. We thrive on differences and believe it is critical to our success as a worldwide charity. SSAFA is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace that seeks to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We therefore encourage applications from all genders, races, religions, ages and sexual orientations, as well as parents, veterans, people living with disabilities, and any other groups that could bring diverse perspectives to our business.

SSAFA is committed to using the Disclosure & Barring Service to ensure we, as an employer, safeguard those we serve.

Insights Analyst - Charity - FULLY REMOTE

Understanding Recruitment NFP is delighted to be partnering with Animals Asia, a leading charity dedicated to creating positive change for animals across Asia, to find a talented Insight Analyst. This is a fantastic opportunity to join their dedicated Data, Technology and Insight team and play a key role in data-driven decision-making across the Supporter Engagement Department.

As an Insight Analyst at Animals Asia, you'll be instrumental in analysing complex datasets, identifying actionable insights, and delivering strategic recommendations that contribute directly to their impactful mission. You’ll collaborate closely with colleagues to build insightful dashboards (primarily using Tableau) and communicate key findings to stakeholders across the organisation. Your expertise in SQL and data visualisation will be crucial in driving Animals Asia's vital work.

Key Skills:

• Proficient in SQL for querying and manipulating data to extract meaningful information.
• Strong experience in working with data visualisation tools such as Power BI or Tableau to create clear and impactful reports and dashboards.
• Familiarity with the Google suite, Google Sheets, Google Meets, etc.
• Proven ability to work effectively with colleagues of all technical abilities, translating complex data into understandable insights and reports.

Contract Details:

• Position: Permanent (Fully Remote)
• Salary: £40,000 per annum
• Location: Home-based, ideally UK

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic team within a truly impactful organisation.

To find out more about this opportunity and the recruitment schedule, please contact Harry Bullock at Understanding Recruitment NFP.

About the role

As one of two Regional Programmes Manager, you’ll inspire and lead a team of Senior Programmes Officers and Kinship Family Workers to effectively deliver high quality support services for kinship families across Greater London, the South of England and the Midlands.

You’ll do this by working in close collaboration with local authority teams who have commissioned our services and other funders where appropriate.

You’ll have accountability and ownership for ensuring we deliver impactful services for kinship carers and that we meet targets for our commissioned services. Working collaboratively with our other managers in other services, you’ll ensure we’re delivering high impact programmes.

You’ll ensure your team have real clarity and direction on their role and responsibilities - encouraging curiosity, learning and solutions-focused thinking. As a leader in the organisation, you are a key model for the team.

Your team will deliver the following programmes:

• Kinship Connected – in-person one-to-one support and support groups in the community
• Kinship Reach – remote one-to-one support and virtual support groups
• Kinship Ready – online workshops to prepare new and prospective special guardians for their role, as well as wraparound one-to-one support (in one local authority)

You will also manage a new role of Grants Officer - London, funded by the Aviva Foundation.

As one of our deputy safeguarding leads, you’ll be part of our key safeguarding structure.  This means you’ll take ownership to make sure our people feel confident and well supported to demonstrate best practice and making sure safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

Key responsibilities include:

• Oversee the day-to-day running of programmes, supporting mostly home-based Senior Programmes Workers and Kinship Family Workers to ensure high quality, consistent and impactful programme delivery.

• Meet performance targets as directed.

• Create and keep developing processes and systems which support consistency across all programmes, ensuring good quality documentation and manualisation on Notion.so

• Develop quality assurance frameworks with other service managers and directors.

• Support your team to establish and deliver in-person and virtual peer support groups regionally and generate engagement with kinship carers.

• Line management and supervision of Senior Programmes Workers and Kinship Family Workers as required.

• Actively encourage personal development and support staff to deliver key targets and outcomes and ensure high levels of wellbeing.

• Work with the Director of Services and Digital, Head of Programmes and the Business Development team to develop proposals and present to local authorities to secure commissions.

• Manage the delivery of commissioned contracts through collaborative relationships with local authorities, ensuring targets are met.

• Manage the programmes and services within budget, in accordance with Kinship’s financial procedures and ensure the reporting of progress in line with funder requirements.

• Work actively and positively with other managers within Kinship to ensure sharing of best practice, problem solving, relevant connections and consistency of delivery across England and Wales.

• Act as a deputy safeguarding lead at Kinship

Essential requirements include:

• Substantial experience in managing a regional service or programme with high quality outputs (national experience desirable but not essential).
• Substantial experience of managing, developing and evaluating effective and innovative services for families experiencing crisis and experience in reaching ‘hidden communities’ and a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Experience of leading and managing continuous improvement in changing contexts.
• Experience of governance and managing risk on high profile service delivery.
• Experience of ensuring that services are designed and led with user needs at the heart, ensuring that the voices of our kinship carers inform ongoing design and development of our programmes.
• High quality digital and data literacy and using technology to help us to be better in our processes. You’ll have to own Salesforce and be a massive champion for the team. You will be accountable for ensuring they use it well.
• Substantial experience of leading high-performing service teams including managing wellbeing, development and performance.

How to apply

In place of a cover letter, you will be asked to answer the following five questions, alongside providing your CV. Please keep your answers to a maximum of 250 words.

1. Tell us why you’re interested in working for Kinship in this role and what experience you bring that would make you successful? This is an opportunity to tell us about you, your experience and your values.
2. Please give an example where you have managed a successful regional programme or service (this could also be national). Please include scale, key performance indicators and outcome. What made it a success?
3. What makes you a great team manager? Give one example of how you have supported teams and individuals to flourish and one example when you have had to step in to address behaviour or performance issues. (This is an opportunity to share your enthusiasm for supporting others to develop and deliver to a high standard. You can share evidence of how your approach has worked and how you’ve tackled challenges and difficult conversations along the way).
4. Quality assurance and consistency is key to making sure our programmes deliver impact for our kinship carers. This includes ensuring your team are following processes, using our case management system effectively and have the tolls to do their role. Please describe how you would approach this at Kinship using a previous example.
5. In this role you will be a deputy safeguarding lead at Kinship. This is a key role, the lives of kinship carers are incredibly complex.  Give one example of a safeguarding situation that required your response in a previous role. Explain what your rationale and thought process was. How did you hold appropriate boundaries and progress actions to effectively safeguard vulnerable children and adults?

Key Dates

• Application deadline: Wednesday 30 April, 9am
• First interview: Online – Tuesday 6 May
• Second interview: In person (Vauxhall, London) – Tuesday 13 May (travel expenses covered if required)

About Kinship

We are Kinship. The leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We’re here for kinship carers – friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren’t able to.

We are made by and for our community of kinship carers. Like family, relationships run deep. And we hear their experiences; for too long they have been isolated without the help they need.

We support, advise and inform kinship carers. Connecting them so they feel empowered. Because a child needs the love and warmth of a thriving family.

We develop research, campaigns and policy solutions. Creating positive change across society. Because for kinship families, love alone is not enough.

Through our work we harness frustrations to fuel passion for change. And tough experiences to inspire ideas that transform lives.

And as we see momentum building, we keep using evidence to demonstrate the value of kinship care. Helping kinship carers navigate challenging circumstances. Believing in a child’s potential.

Join us. Together, let’s commit to change for kinship families.