Director of programmes and learning jobs in Greater london

With a 110-year history, we are proud to be able to say that the WI continues to be the largest and most influential UK women’s organisation, with over 170,000 members. Our campaigns push for change on the issues that matter to women and their communities, from equal pay to climate change, mental health and violence against women. The WI has brought about real change, and this record of action shows that we are as relevant today as we were in 1915.

The National Federation of Women’s Institutes (the NFWI) is responsible for running the organisation and provides support and advice to members at both regional and local levels.

About the role

Leading innovation across the organisation, you will be responsible for developing and delivering a strategy to grow our movement, to increase our membership and reach whilst ensuring we continue to reflect the needs and aspirations of women. You will oversee research into women’s evolving needs and preferences, whilst testing approaches with new external audiences to maximise our relevance, diversity and inclusivity. At the same time, you will actively embed innovation into strategy and decision-making in all areas, constantly find new ways to reach underrepresented women and build a wealth of data to support your recommendations. You will lead transformation across the organisation by championing change, creativity and a forward-thinking strategy that ensures the continued growth for the WI.

Location: Hybrid, with one day per week at our London, Oxfordshire or Wales office.

About you

Highly experienced in innovation, organisational development or programme management, you will bring an impressive track record of instigating and managing successful organisational change that leads to sustainable income generation. You will be adept at designing and delivering pilot programmes, as well as commissioning research and deploying data to support action. The role requires excellent communication skills and the confidence to advise and lead at both senior leadership and Board level, as the organisation looks to you to lead fundamental organisational change. Experience within the charity or not-for-profit sector would be beneficial, as would an understanding of trends and issues affecting women across different demographics in the UK.

How to apply

For further information about this Head of Innovation role, please download the recruitment pack which includes the job description and person specification.

To apply, please submit your current CV with a covering letter clearly explaining why you would be suitable for the role to the HR department.

Closing date: 3 September 2026.

First round interview (virtual): 11 September 2026.

Second round interview (in-person): 15 September 2026.

No other media or agencies, please.

The WI is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and values diversity. Reg. Charity No. 803793.

Be Part of Meaningful Change
Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter. With a strengthened leadership team and an ambitious vision for the future, we are building on our foundations to deliver a bold and impactful organisational strategy. We are now seeking an Administrator to join our Programmes teams at this pivotal time. This opportunity is available on permanent basis.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with HR administration, recruitment, coordination or People & Culture experience who wants to make a meaningful difference within a values-led organisation supporting survivors of sexual violence.

About the role

Working closely with the People & Culture Manager, you will provide first-line People & Culture support across the organisation, coordinate recruitment and onboarding activities, manage our HR and Recruitment inboxes, support payroll administration, maintain employee records, and help ensure our people processes are efficient, compliant and trauma-informed.

Key responsibilities include:
You will:

• Act as the first point of contact for HR and recruitment enquiries
• Coordinate recruitment campaigns, interviews and onboarding activities
• Support safer recruitment and safeguarding processes
• Manage employee records and People & Culture systems
• Assist with payroll administration and reporting
• Provide first-line policy and procedural guidance
• Help managers navigate People & Culture processes
• Contribute to continuous improvement and service development initiatives

About You
We're looking for someone who has:

• Experience working within a HR, People & Culture or operations environment
• Experience coordinating recruitment and onboarding activities
• Strong administrative and organisational skills
• Experience managing shared inboxes and responding to enquiries
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to handle confidential and sensitive information appropriately
• Strong attention to detail
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• A positive, professional and solution-focused approach

CIPD Level 3 qualification (or working towards it) is desirable, as is experience within the charity, voluntary, healthcare, education or social care sectors.

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment

Rape Crisis South London is committed to safeguarding survivors and service users. The post holder will contribute to maintaining the organisation’s safeguarding standards.

This includes:

• Promoting the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk
• Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns
• Following organisational safeguarding policies and procedures
• Supporting a culture where everyone feels safe, respected and supported

Our safer recruitment processes include:

• Values-based interviews
• Verification of identity, qualifications and employment history
• Reference checks
• Enhanced DBS checks where required
• Safeguarding training and supervision
• Equality, Feminist Commitment and Values.

Intersectionality and Reasonable Adjustments

We recognise that experiences of sexual violence are shaped by intersecting factors such as:

• Race and ethnicity
• Disability
• Sexuality and gender identity
• Socioeconomic background
• Immigration status
• Faith and culture
   

Our work is grounded in feminist principles, recognising sexual violence as both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We centre survivor voices and prioritise empowerment, inclusivity and intersectionality.
 

Applicants are encouraged to let us know if they require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, such as:

• Alternative interview formats or timings
• Additional time for written tasks
• Accessible documentation
• Support relating to disability, neurodivergence or health needs
   

Learning and Development

As a charity undergoing transformation and growth, we welcome colleagues who are committed to continuous learning and professional development.

Interview Process

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview, conducted via MS Teams.

Stage one: MS Teams with the People & Culture Manager, Director of People & Culture and one other panel member.

The whole process from advertisement to appointment, may take up to 3 -4 weeks.

Post holder will be required to undertake Basic DBS
The role will initially be open for one month (until filled). However, due to the urgent need for support, applications will be reviewed and interviews arranged on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

The interview will explore experience and approach to:

• Safeguarding
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Wellbeing and feminist practice
• Trauma-informed therapeutic work
• Leadership responsibilities relevant to the role

This post is open to women only (Schedule 9, Paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010).
We particularly welcome applications from women underrepresented in leadership roles in the VAWG sector. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

GDPR Statement

Rape Crisis South London will process personal information provided during the recruitment process in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. Information submitted as part of your application will be used solely for recruitment, selection, safeguarding, and employment-related checks. For unsuccessful candidates, application data will be retained for up to six months before being securely deleted. By submitting an application, you acknowledge that your personal data will be processed for recruitment purposes. For further information, please contact.

How to apply
Please submit:

• Your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to in PDF format
• Interview date(s): This opportunity will remain open until filled. However, due to the urgent need to recruit to this role, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews may be arranged before the closing date. We therefore encourage early applications.

Thank you for your interest in RCSL. If you have not heard from us within one month of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
 We encourage you to follow us on LinkedIn @rapecrisissouthlondon for future opportunities and updates.

AI in Job Applications 
We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences

Are you passionate about supporting children and young people affected by sexual violence?

This exciting opportunity sits within our Children and Young People's Service and will support children and young people aged 4-25 who have experienced sexual violence. The role will involve providing short-term, trauma-informed wellbeing advocacy, working closely with survivors, their families and support networks, and helping them navigate health, safeguarding and support systems.

About the Role

Reporting to the Clinical Lead for Children & Young People / Advocacy Service Manager, the successful candidate will:

• Provide specialist wellbeing advocacy and emotional support to children and young people affected by sexual violence.
• Undertake risk and needs assessments and develop support plans.
• Work collaboratively with schools, social care, health services, CAMHS, criminal justice agencies and community partners.
• Support children, young people and families to access appropriate services and resources.
• Manage a caseload, maintain accurate records and contribute to monitoring and evaluation activities.
• Deliver support through face-to-face, online, telephone and outreach settings.
• Contribute to service development, awareness raising and training activities.

Key Areas of Responsibility

The successful applicant will:

• Provide short-term wellbeing advocacy and emotional support to children and young people affected by sexual violence.
• Undertake risk and needs assessments and develop support plans.
• Support children, young people and families to navigate health, social care, education and criminal justice systems.
• Work collaboratively with schools, CAMHS, social care, health professionals, police and community partners.
• Manage a caseload and maintain high-quality records and case notes.
• Deliver support in schools, community settings, remotely and from RCSL premises.
• Contribute to safeguarding processes and multi-agency working.
• Support service development, evaluation, awareness raising and training activities.

What You Bring:

• A qualification in counselling, psychotherapy, youth work, social work or a related discipline.
• Experience of supporting children and young people experiencing trauma, abuse or sexual violence.
• Strong safeguarding and risk assessment skills.
• Experience of working in partnership with multiple agencies.
• A commitment to feminist, anti-oppressive and trauma-informed practice.
• Excellent communication, organisational and case management skills.
• A passion for ensuring the voices of children and young people remain central to decision-making.

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment 

Rape Crisis South London is committed to safeguarding survivors and service users. The post holder will contribute to maintaining the organisation’s safeguarding standards. 

This includes: 

• Promoting the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk 
• Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns 
• Following organisational safeguarding policies and procedures 
• Supporting a culture where everyone feels safe, respected and supported 

Our safer recruitment processes include: 
Values-based interviews 

• Verification of identity, qualifications and employment history 
• Reference checks 
• Enhanced DBS checks where required 
• Safeguarding training and supervision 
• Equality, Feminist Commitment and Values. 

Intersectionality and Reasonable Adjustments 

We recognise that experiences of sexual violence are shaped by intersecting factors such as: 

• Race and ethnicity 
• Disability 
• Sexuality and gender identity 
• Socioeconomic background 
• Immigration status 
• Faith and culture 

Our work is grounded in feminist principles, recognising sexual violence as both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We centre survivor voices and prioritise empowerment, inclusivity and intersectionality. 

Applicants are encouraged to let us know if they require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, such as: 

• Alternative interview formats or timings 
• Additional time for written tasks 
• Accessible documentation 
• Support relating to disability, neurodivergence or health needs 

Learning and Development 

As a charity undergoing transformation and growth, we welcome colleagues who are committed to continuous learning and professional development.
 
Interview Process 

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview, conducted via MS Teams.
Stage one: MS Teams with the CYP Clinical Lead, Advocacy Manager and Director of Programmes.

The whole process from advertisement to appointment, may take up to 3 -4 weeks.
 
Post holder will be required to undertake Enhanced DBS
The role will initially be open for one month (until filled). However, due to the urgent need for support, applications will be reviewed and interviews arranged on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

The interview will explore experience and approach to: 

• Safeguarding 
• Equality, diversity and inclusion 
• Wellbeing and feminist practice 
• Trauma-informed therapeutic work 
• Leadership responsibilities relevant to the role 

This post is open to women only (Schedule 9, Paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010).
We particularly welcome applications from women underrepresented in leadership roles in the VAWG sector. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

How to apply 
Please submit: 

• Your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to in PDF format
• Interview date(s):  Rolling basis

AI in Job Applications
We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences 

Play a pivotal role in shaping how we support, develop and empower our people, at an exciting time of growth for Betknowmore UK.

Betknowmore UK has grown rapidly into a delivery organisation of real scale and ambition, running multiple funded services with staff and volunteers across the country, and a workforce that proudly and intentionally includes people with lived experience of gambling harm. As we continue to grow, we're looking for an experienced Interim HR Manager to help us build on strong foundations and take our people function to the next level, over a defined eight-month period (with the possiblility of extension through mutual agreement).

Reporting to the Director of Finance and Operations and line managing our HR Officer, you'll lead three connected priorities: building the capability and confidence of our managers; shaping our workforce development strategy, including career pathways for colleagues with lived experience; and making sure we're fully prepared for the employment law changes arriving under the Employment Rights Act 2025. This is a genuine change role with a lasting legacy, you'll help leave the organisation stronger, more capable and better equipped for the future.

What you'll be doing

• Providing expert, pragmatic advice on employee relations matters, and leading complex or contentious casework where genuinely necessary, coaching managers to build their own confidence in handling cases
• Keeping the organisation ahead of the phased implementation of the Employment Rights Act 2025, and advising the policy team on the changes required
• Managing the relationship with our external employment law advisers, briefing tightly and translating advice into workable decisions
• Building the capability and confidence of line managers through practical, scenario-based training and coaching through live situations
• Developing a manager toolkit — templates, letters, scripts, decision trees and a clear escalation route
• Owning and developing our workforce development strategy, including a capability framework and career pathways for colleagues with lived experience, from volunteering through to management roles
• Establishing our learning and development framework, including induction, professional accreditation and qualification routes
• Improving consistency and fairness in recruitment and selection, and line managing, supervising and developing the HR Officer
• Providing HR risk reporting to the senior management team and, as requested, to the Board

What we're looking for

• We're interested in hearing from candidates who have:
• Substantial generalist HR experience at HR Manager or senior HR Business Partner level, including sustained periods as the most senior HR person in an organisation or business unit
• Experience of working in a lived experience-led organisation, or one with a significant peer or lived experience workforce
• A proven track record of building line manager capability, coaching managers through live situations rather than doing the work for them
• Experience developing and implementing a workforce development or HR strategy, including competency frameworks and career pathways
• Demonstrable experience of handling complex and contentious employee relations casework end to end, including matters carrying genuine tribunal risk
• Current, working knowledge of UK employment law, including the Employment Rights Act 2025 and its practical implications for employers
• Experience of working in a lean or fast-growing organisation, operating without a large in-house HR or legal team
• Strong influencing skills with senior colleagues, and excellent judgement on confidentiality, conflicts of interest and escalation
• CIPD Level 5 or above, or equivalent demonstrable experience
• Knowledge of the gambling harms, addiction, health or social welfare sectors, experience of a comparable commissioning transition, and experience of interim or fractional assignments would all be advantageous, as would CIPD Level 7 or Chartered MCIPD status.

Why join us?

You'll be joining a growing, ambitious charity making a real difference to people's lives. This is a unique opportunity to shape our people strategy from the ground up, build lasting management capability, and leave a genuine legacy alongside a passionate, lived experience-informed team who are proud of what they do.

Astra Foundation is seeking a Foundation Director; a dynamic, seasoned and strategic leader with a background in philanthropy who is motivated by their mission to combat loneliness in young adults, empower youth to reach their full potential, and reduce plastic pollution, primarily in the UK and France. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a young foundation and support the next phase of its evolution, building on strong foundations to further steward support for their priority areas and civil society partners. The ideal candidate will be collaborative, with a willingness to handle all aspects of the Foundation’s work, from high-level strategy and external relations to day-to-day administration.

For nearly 20 years, Lively Minds has been proving that parents are the sleeping giants of early childhood development. With strong evidence and a national scale proof point in Ghana, we have shown that parent powered approaches delivered through government systems can transform children's lives at scale.

We are now at a pivotal moment. We have the evidence, the model and the momentum, and we need the funding, profile and influence to match our ambition. This is a rare opportunity to lead income generation and external voice for an award winning NGO entering an exciting new phase of growth. You will lead our fundraising strategy and direct engagement with Funders ensuring that we maximise all funding opportunities as we continue our strategic evolution. You will also shape a compelling external narrative that will help position Lively Minds as the definitive partner for governments strengthening their early childhood development systems.

If you are an exceptional fundraiser and communicator who is equally comfortable in a strategic conversation and writing a winning proposal, we would love to hear from you.

Read the full advert and apply below. Closing date: 3rd September 2026.

About Lively Minds

Lively Minds is an award-winning NGO with nearly 20 years of experience designing, testing and scaling early childhood development (ECD) solutions across the Global South. Our core idea is simple but radical: parents are the sleeping giants of ECD. Governments and donors have long overlooked parents, assuming that poverty and low literacy make them unable or unwilling to support their childrenʼs development. We have spent two decades proving otherwise. With RCT-backed evidence and a national-scale proof point in Ghana, we have demonstrated that parent-powered approaches, delivered through government systems, can achieve meaningful child development outcomes at scale.

Our 2026–2028 strategy marks a pivotal shift. Having demonstrated what is possible, we are now helping pioneer an innovative model of country-led sustainable scale. Rather than delivering programmes ourselves, we provide lean, time-limited technical advisory support to governments to help them integrate parent-powered ECD into their own systems, budgets and institutions. We are currently working with the governments of Ghana, Uganda, Oromia state (Ethiopia) and The Gambia in 2026, growing to six or more country engagements by 2028. Our ambition is to catalyse a sector-wide shift, positioning Lively Minds as the definitive partner for governments seeking to strengthen their ECD systems.

Our scale strategy rests on three interdependent pillars: fixed-term Technical Advisory partnerships with governments; the development of a modular radio model simple and affordable enough for governments to adopt and fund independently; and an advocacy and sector influence agenda designed to make parent-powered ECD the norm globally.

Purpose of the Role

Lively Minds is at a critical inflection point. We have the evidence, the model and the momentum. We now need the funding, profile and sector influence to match our ambition. The Director of Fundraising and Communications is a priority hire, created to provide the dedicated, experienced leadership that this moment demands.

The Director will own and drive Lively Mindsʼ income generation, building new funder relationships, managing and deepening existing ones, and ensuring the organisation has the pipeline, discipline and quality of engagement to meet and exceed its fundraising targets. Working in close partnership with the Founding CEO, who retains ownership of a small number of long-standing strategic relationships, the Director will take primary responsibility for securing the funding that makes the 2026–2028 strategy deliverable, and that opens the door to greater scale beyond it. We need to raise approximately £3.4m over the next 3 years to deliver our strategy. But our ambition is to exceed that target so we can support additional governments.

Alongside fundraising, the Director will provide strategic leadership to Lively Mindsʼ communications and advocacy work, ensuring that the organisationʼs external voice is compelling and that we are building credibility in the spaces where funding decisions are made. The Director will lead and provide strategic coherence to a small but outward-facing team, including Head of Partnerships and Advocacy Lead who are active on the international stage. Lively Minds is committed to thought-leadership and active external engagement, but equally committed to ensuring that communications resource is deployed with discipline and rigour. The Director will set a clear strategic filter for where the organisation shows up, what it publishes and who it engages: prioritising focus and quality over volume, and always asking whether external activity is building the relationships and reputation that ultimately drive income and/or systems change.

Lively Minds is a dispersed, remote organisation. The Directorʼs team the Advocacy Lead, Development Manager and Communications Officer - are internationally distributed. The ability to lead, develop and maintain high standards across a dispersed team is essential. The role requires regular travel to international conferences and events.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy & Income Generation

• Own and deliver the multi-year fundraising strategy with clear priorities, targets, income streams and a disciplined pipeline to support the 2026–2028 strategy and future scale
• Steward existing funder relationships, turning strong partnerships into long-term supporters, advocates and connectors to new funding opportunities.
• Lead the shift towards Big Bet and catalytic funding, personally cultivating and negotiating high-value, multi-year partnerships and positioning Lively Minds for system-level scale
• Maintain a high standard of fundraising quality, pipeline management and forecasting, while coaching the team to produce compelling, sophisticated fundraising materials
•  Build and continuously strengthen a diverse funding pipeline, identifying emerging opportunities, new funding markets and strategic partnerships that reduce concentration risk and support long-term financial sustainability

Communications, Brand & Advocacy

• Own and deliver Lively Mindsʼ communications and marketing strategy, balancing visibility and sector influence with the need to strengthen fundraising and systems-change objectives
• Partner closely with the CEO to shape and steward a coherent external narrative, brand and messaging framework across all audiences and channels
• Oversee high-quality core communications and fundraising materials, including cases for support, pitch decks, website content, proposals and donor reports
• Provide strategic communications expertise to Advocacy, Partnerships and MEL, ensuring evidence and learning are translated into compelling narratives and consistent external messaging
• Lead efforts to strengthen Lively Mindsʼ profile and thought leadership in the ECD sector, identifying opportunities for strategic media, events, publications and external platforms that reinforce its positioning and influence

Organizational Leadership&TeamDevelopment

• Contribute actively to SMT and organisational strategy, bringing funder intelligence, external perspective and communications expertise to strategic decision-making.
• Work closely with Finance and MEL to align fundraising targets, forecasting, budgets and evidence, ensuring proposals are credible, accurately costed and evidence-led
• Act as the organisationʼs communications subject matter expert, providing guidance and challenge to ensure high-quality, consistent external communications
• Lead and develop the Advocacy Lead, Development Manager and Communications Officer, fostering a team culture of quality, accountability, strategic clarity and continuous improvement
• Build strong cross-organisational collaboration, ensuring teams understand how fundraising, communications, advocacy and evidence work together to advance Lively Mindsʼ strategic priorities

Person Specification

Essential Experience & Skills

• 10+ years of significant senior-level fundraising experience within international development, education, philanthropy or a comparable sector
• Proven track record of securing major grants from foundations, institutional donors and high-net-worth individuals, alongside demonstrated experience securing or meaningfully progressing large-scale, catalytic funding from Big Bet philanthropy programmes such as the Audacious Project, Skoll Foundation or comparable funders. A strong understanding of what these funders look for and how to position an organisation compellingly within their processes is essential
• Exceptional fundraising writing skills, with the ability to personally develop compelling cases for support, funding proposals, award applications and pitch decks tailored to sophisticated impact funders. This is a hands-on role requiring both strong writing capability and the ability to coach others to consistently produce high-quality fundraising content
• Experienced in developing and owning a marketing and communications strategy, with a strong understanding of how to balance organisational visibility, thought leadership and sector influence with coherence, strategic focus and income generation
• Demonstrated ability to work closely with a Founding CEO to shape and steward the organisationʼs external narrative and brand. Comfortable working in a founder-led environment, providing expertise and constructive challenge while ensuring the organisation maintains a clear, consistent and coherent external voice

Desirable Experience

• Experienced fundraising for a technical advisory, systems change or government-facing organisation
• Knowledge of the ECD, education or early childhood sector and its funding landscape
• Familiarity with the Big Bang Philanthropy network or equivalent impact-focused funder communities
• Experience working alongside advocacy and partnerships teams, providing communications expertise and strategic coherence to their external activity
• Familiarity with the funding landscape for organisations operating in Sub-Saharan Africa
• Experience working remotely across multiple countries and effectively collaborating with cross-cultural teams

Behaviours & Ways of Working

• A doer, equally comfortable in strategic conversations and writing a funding proposal
• Sets a high bar for quality and clarity in all external communications and holds it consistently
• Builds a strong, trust-based partnership with the Founding CEO, provides honest challenge and operates effectively within a founder-led dynamic without losing their own voice or judgement
• Collaborative and cross-organisational. Invests in strong relationships with programme, MEL and finance colleagues, understanding that the best fundraising is grounded in organisational reality
• Calm and focused under pressure - able to manage competing priorities and maintain quality when the stakes are high

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• 25 days annual leave
• Health insurance
• Pension contribution
• Generous learning and development budget
• Flexible, remote working

Application Instruction

Interested candidates are encouraged to read the Job Description carefully before applying to ensure they understand the role and meet the required criteria.

To apply, please complete the pre-screening questions and submit your updated CV

PLEASE NOTE - Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Timeline

Closing Date: 3rd September 2026

Our Stance

Lively Minds operates a strict Safeguarding Policy and is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children and vulnerable people. As part of our recruitment process, the suitability of successful candidates will be verified through appropriate background checks including professional references and police checks.

Lively Minds is fully committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and to providing equal opportunities throughout our recruitment process. We want this commitment to be reflected in the diversity of the people who work for us, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, experiences and perspectives.

We are committed to ensuring that recruitment decisions are based on merit, skills, experience and suitability for the role, and that all candidates are treated fairly and with respect throughout the recruitment process.

Job Title:Quality Assurance and Training Programme Lead 

Internal Job Title:Practice Improvement and Training Programme Lead 

Hours: 35 per week (full time) 

Location:Home-based withregular travel across England. 

Contract: Permanent

Salary:£43,183 per annum (London weighting £48,364) 

About us

Housing Justice brings together communities and finds solutions to homelessness by building personal connections, a sense of belonging, and creating justice in the housing system. We train and support volunteers to offer various accommodation options while building a network of local support. This includes providing personalised assistance to help individuals access relevant local services and address their other needs. Through compassionate, courageous, and collaborative action, we implement innovative solutions to tackle housing injustice, enhance the quality of housing, and elevate the voices and experiences of groups affected by housing injustice to both local and national governments. 

About the programme

The Faith & Community Development Team supports and strengthens community and faith-based responses to homelessness across England. This role will help shape Housing Justice’s national programme of quality improvement, training and best practice for community and faith-based homelessness services, using insight from our flagship Quality assurance framework, Impact Portal, existing research, and partnership engagement to continue the development of practice standards, resources and learning opportunities for the network. 

About you

We are seeking an experienced and organised programme lead with a strong understanding of homelessness, housing policy and practice, and quality improvement. You will bring strong written and verbal communication skills, including presenting and facilitating, drafting reports, quality mark standards and guidance. You will also be comfortable managing multiple priorities, managing a small team, working with data and monitoring information, and building positive relationships with local authorities, funders, sector partners and organisations in the Housing Justice network. 

About the role

The successful candidate will lead the development and delivery of Housing Justice’s national quality improvement, training and best practice work for community and faith-based homelessness services across England. You will oversee the continued development of the Quality Mark accreditation scheme for emergency accommodation providers, lead the creation of a new Quality Framework for day services, develop an Emergency Accommodation Toolkit, and deliver training, learning events and communities of practice. 

The postholder will provide leadership to a small team, with line management responsibility for up to two members of staff, and will work closely with partners to strengthen service quality, safety, effectiveness and sustainability across the sector. 

Benefits

• 29 days annual leave, 3 of which are fixed between Christmas and New Year. This is in addition to bank holidays and pro-rata if part time. 

• After 3 years of serviceyou are entitled to one additional day of holiday for each additional year of service, up to a maximum of 5 additional days, pro-rata if part time. 

• We offer flexible working. Not all posts can be made flexible, but where possible we operate core hours of 10 – 3pm, with employees able to flex their working day around these. Any flexibility is at the discretion of the line manager and relevant senior manager. 

• As this role is offered as hybrid, we will provide some financial support to get you set up with appropriate equipment. 

• We offer an employee assistance programme through Spectrum Life, which can be used by you and your family for a range of advice and support. 

• We offer a cycle-to-work scheme. 

How to apply

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, please read the attached job description and fill out the application form (accessed by clicking ‘Apply’), describing your capabilities for each of the numbered points in the person specification. Please note that we do not accept CVs. 

OneSky is seeking a highly motivated and organized individual to manage our corporate and foundation partnerships outside of Asia. The Director of Partnerships is a seasoned international NGO fundraiser and an excellent communicator and collaborator. They will have a track record in building, maintaining, and stewarding new and long-term corporate and foundation donor relationships, and soliciting and securing gifts of USD$50,000 and up. They will oversee a portfolio of existing funders while also developing a pipeline of new potential institutional funders. 

Reports to: Senior Director of Partnerships

Location: UK or US 

Role requirements:

• Solicit and secure grants and sponsorships that allow OneSky programs to flourish.
• Collaborate with other global team members to grow and diversify foundation and corporate partnership opportunities. Continually research and identify prospective corporate and foundation donors across multiple sectors that align with our mission priorities to maintain a robust and diverse prospect pipeline.
• Develop and maintain strategic, high-level relationships with funding partners and prospects in collaboration with senior leadership.
• Collaborate with the Director of Grants to develop and submit competitive and compelling proposals, reports, budgets, and supporting materials by their due dates.
• Work with Finance, Communications, Program and MEAL staff across the organization to ensure accurate and consistent messaging in all OneSky funding proposals and reports.
• Ensure funder engagement benefits and deliverables are met or exceeded within the required timeframe.
• Establish consistent use of the CRM function of Salesforce to track pertinent donor and prospect information, cultivation, and stewardship.
• Represent OneSky at regional industry conferences, meetings (virtual and in-person), program site visits, and fundraising events.as required.
• Monitor and provide regular updates to leadership regarding fundraising strategies, activities, prospects, progress, and revenue.
• Undertake any additional fundraising activities that may be necessary and compatible with the nature of this role. 

Qualifications & Skills:

Required

• Bachelor's Degree in a related field
• At least 5 years’ experience in generating significant income from foundations and corporate partners for nonprofit purposes
• Demonstrated success in developing and stewarding long-term philanthropic partnerships
• Experience working across cultures and managing stakeholder relationships in multiple countries
• Superior project management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Commitment to making the world a better place for young children
• Based in the UK or US

Preferred

• Experience in an educational or child welfare INGO
• Salesforce NPSP proficiency, or similar CRM

Salary & benefits

OneSky offers a comprehensive benefits package appropriate to the employee’s country of employment, along with a flexible and collaborative international work environment.

Role Overview

This is an exciting time to be joining the charity! Our new strategy focuses on growth and long-term sustainability, with ambitious plans to extend our reach and impact nationally and to expand and diversify our services. Our long-term ambition for the future is a transformed landscape of multi-disciplinary therapeutic support in schools, with UP acknowledged and recognised as a thought-leader, innovator, preferred collaborator and convener.

We are entering a period of significant growth and change driven by our new strategy, and the Clinical Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of our clinical approach, delivering our strategic priorities, and representing UP as a credible and influential clinical leader.

You will provide strategic clinical leadership and robust clinical governance across the charity, ensuring our services remain safe, effective, evidence-based and responsive to need. You will champion high standards of multidisciplinary practice, leading and developing our clinical workforce, providing clinical oversight and support, driving improvement and innovation, and building infrastructure, capability and clinical excellence needed to support our future growth.

This is a hands-on leadership role that combines strategic vision with operational delivery. While the role balances both strategic and operational responsibilities, we anticipate that, through building internal capability and capacity, the focus will evolve over time towards a greater emphasis on strategic leadership, innovation, growth and impact. There is real opportunity to make this role your own.

We are looking for a strategic, confident and adaptable leader who will thrive in a growing organisation and enjoy working innovatively and collaboratively. You will be able to inspire confidence and credibility across a wide range of audiences, be passionate about the value of multidisciplinary working to achieve the very best outcomes for children and families, and be motivated by the opportunity to lead meaningful and lasting change.

Making your application:

• Please make your application by submitting your CV, along with a cover letter which clearly demonstrates how you meet the person specification criteria (we will be shortlisting candidates closely against the person specification).
• Interviews will be arranged on a rolling basis, as suitable applications are received. Please note that we may close the advert prior to the closing date, so please don’t delay submitting your application! We will keep you updated on your application by email, and will let you know about anything you will need to prepare if you are shortlisted.
• For further information, or if you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of the application process, please contact us.
• We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all those who work with us to share this commitment. It's a criminal offence for a person to apply to work with a group from which they have been barred from working.

Employment Details: 

• Location: Haringey (N17), London, UK. (This is an In-Person role with optional one day working remotely) 
• Job Title:  Director of Operations 
• Reporting to: CEO, with accountability to the Board of Trustees 
• Line Manages: Operations Co-ordinator and Finance Officer
• Employment Type: Full-Time (40hrs Per Week)
• Start date: October 2026 (Ideally, or later if you have a notice period) 

Benefits:

• Annual Leave: 25 days (Exclusive of Bank Holiday)
• 1 x WFH/flexi working as per policy
• CPD Budget: £1000
• Group Life Insurance
• Discount on Food (Specific Restaurants)
• Free Brunch every Thursday
• Company Well-being Events
• Pension Contribution

Summary of the role:
The Director of Operations is a pivotal senior leadership role at Sister System, responsible for strengthening the people, culture, systems and organisational foundations that enable our mission to thrive. Working closely with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees, the postholder will play a central role in delivering our current strategic priorities and shaping the next chapter of Sister System as we develop our future strategy beyond September 2027. 

This is a significant opportunity to help shape a growing, values-led organisation founded on co-curation, sisterhood, race & gender equity and the belief that girls and young women should be active architects of the services, systems and opportunities designed for them. With oversight of financial management, people and culture, compliance, risk and organisational infrastructure, the Director of Operations will lead on empowering & ensuring that our internal culture and ways of working reflect the same care, accountability, ambition and empowerment that sit at the heart of our model. 

The role will be instrumental in translating our founding vision into strong, sustainable practice, ensuring Sister System is equipped to grow its impact while remaining deeply connected to the voices, experiences and leadership of the girls and young women we exist to serve. 

Our Charity:
Sister System exists to ensure that care-affected girls and young women are not defined by the systems they have experienced, but are supported to recognise their strengths, shape their futures and access the same opportunities as their peers. 

Our culturally competent, co-curated model works alongside girls and young women aged 13–24 through a long-term journey of support, progression and leadership. Across three interconnected stages, we provide trusted relationships, mentoring, therapeutic support, education, leadership development and pathways into employment. Our approach recognises that meaningful change takes time, consistency and a community that continues to believe in her. 

Founded with girls and young women, not simply for them, Sister System places their voices, experiences and ambitions at the heart of everything we do. Through our growing hub-and-spoke model, we are expanding our reach while also influencing the wider systems, services and institutions that shape their lives. 

Our ambition is not only to improve individual outcomes, but to demonstrate a better way of working with care-affected girls and young women—one that is relational, culturally responsive, asset-based and built around what they tell us they need to thrive. 

As Sister System enters its next phase of growth and prepares to shape its future strategy, we are seeking an experienced and values-led Director of Operations to join our Senior Leadership Team. This is an exciting opportunity to strengthen the people, culture, systems and infrastructure that will enable our organisation—and the girls and young women alongside us—to achieve even more. 

Our Vision: 
A world where empowered girls reach their potential through equitable opportunities.

Our Mission: 
To bridge the gap between care-affected girls and young women within mainstream society by working alongside them to ensure they have the same opportunities that everyone else has – at home, school, work and within our communities. 

Our Values: 

• COLLABORATIVE 
  We co-curate programmes with our Sis-Stars. We seek powerful partnerships. 
• EVIDENCE-BASED 
  We build trust and respect within our sector. 
• MASTERFUL 
  We aim for excellence as standard and share our learning. 
• SOLUTION-FOCUSED 
  We innovate to overcome challenges with a long-term goal in mind. 
• TENACIOUS 
  We are not afraid to take a stand and push for change. 

 
Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership and Implementation 

• Work closely with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees to translate Sister System’s strategy, theory of change, operational model and financial plans into clear organisational priorities and coordinated action. 
• Play a central role in shaping Sister System’s next strategy ahead of the September 2027 refresh, ensuring it reflects our founding commitment to co-curation, the voices of girls and young women, our evolving three-stage model and our future growth ambitions. 
• Lead the development of proportionate planning, monitoring and review processes that enable the Senior Leadership Team to track progress, reflect on performance, identify barriers and remain accountable for delivery. 
• Monitor progress against agreed strategic goals and KPIs, ensuring that risks, dependencies and areas requiring leadership attention are clearly identified and addressed. 
• Support senior leaders to turn strategic priorities into realistic plans, with clear ownership, timescales and measurable outcomes. 
• Ensure that learning from delivery, impact data, staff experience and the voices of girls and young women inform strategic decision-making and organisational improvement. 
• Cultivate a strong shared sense of purpose across Sister System, helping colleagues understand how their roles contribute to our mission, values and long-term ambitions. 

Financial Strategy and Audit 

• Work closely with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees to shape, implement and regularly evaluate Sister System’s financial strategy, ensuring it supports our mission, strategic ambitions and long-term sustainability. 
• Provide clear, financial recommendations to the CEO, helping the organisation navigate the balance between delivering high-quality, meaningful impact for girls and young women, achieving value for money and maintaining financial resilience. 
• Translate Sister System’s strategic priorities, delivery model and growth ambitions into realistic financial plans, forecasts and scenarios that support timely and well-informed decision-making. 
• Lead financial scenario planning and ensure that the CEO and Board have a clear understanding of the financial implications, risks and trade-offs associated with key organisational decisions. 
• Lead and oversee the annual audit process, working effectively with external auditors, the finance team, senior leaders and the Board to ensure a robust, timely and transparent process. 
• Ensure that learning and recommendations arising from audits, financial reviews and assurance activity are translated into clear improvements and strengthened organisational practice. 

Financial Management 

• Lead the development, monitoring and management of annual budgets, reforecasts and longer-term financial plans, ensuring resources are aligned with Sister System’s strategic priorities. 
• Hold and actively manage the tension between quality, impact, affordability and value for money, ensuring financial decisions protect the integrity of Sister System’s model and the experience of the girls and young women we serve. 
• Provide the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board with clear, accessible and timely financial information, insight and recommendations to support effective leadership and governance. 
• Produce high-level financial reports and analysis covering budgets, cash flow, reserves, forecasts, strategic KPIs and other relevant performance indicators. 
• Maintain and continuously strengthen proportionate financial systems, controls and processes that reflect Sister System’s size, stage of growth and evolving operating model. 
• Ensure that robust financial and performance-reporting infrastructure is in place, with clear accountability, reliable data and appropriate oversight across the organisation. 
• Support Directors and budget holders to understand their financial responsibilities, manage resources effectively and make informed decisions within agreed parameters. 
• Identify emerging financial risks, pressures and opportunities for greater efficiency, advising the CEO on appropriate actions and ensuring these are monitored and addressed. 
• Oversee high quality bookkeeping practice to ensure reporting is accurate and up to date. 
• Work with the fundraising team to develop budgets for proposals and create timely financial reports for funders and donors 

Culture and Operational Effectiveness 

• Work closely with our People and Culture consultant, CEO and Senior Leadership Team to shape and embed a progressive, inclusive and high-performing organisational culture aligned with Sister System’s values: Collaborative, Evidence-based, Masterful, Solution-focused and Tenacious. 
• Champion a culture of regular, honest and constructive feedback, helping managers and colleagues to hold crucial conversations with clarity, care and accountability. 
• Ensure that Sister System’s internal culture reflects the relational, empowering and values-led approach that sits at the heart of our work with girls and young women. 
• Review existing organisational processes and workflows, identifying practical opportunities to improve clarity, consistency, collaboration and efficiency. 
• Develop and embed proportionate ways of working that support Sister System’s current size, evolving operating model and future growth. 

People Planning and Management 

• Lead the development of a clear and forward-looking people plan that ensures Sister System has the right structure, capacity, capabilities and leadership in place to deliver its strategic ambitions. 
• Support managers to build high-performing teams through effective objective-setting, regular feedback, performance management and professional development. 
• Foster an environment in which people are supported to grow, appropriately challenged and held accountable for delivering against agreed expectations. 
• Facilitate professional learning, career development and progression across the organisation, ensuring that opportunities are transparent, equitable and aligned with organisational need. 
• Oversee workforce and succession planning, ensuring that the organisational structure remains appropriate, affordable and responsive to Sister System’s development. 
• Work with the CEO and relevant advisers to ensure fair and appropriate pay, benefits and working conditions. 
• Oversee recruitment and the end-to-end employee experience, from attraction and onboarding through to development, retention and exit. 
• Ensure that people policies, practices and management approaches are legally compliant, consistently applied and reflective of Sister System’s values. 

Compliance and Risk Management 

• Ensure that Sister System meets its legal, regulatory and governance responsibilities as a charity and employer. 
• Lead the development and maintenance of a proportionate organisational risk-management framework that protects Sister System’s people, assets, reputation and ability to deliver its mission. 
• Ensure that key organisational risks are clearly identified, owned, monitored and reported to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees. 
• Promote a culture in which risk is understood and actively managed without limiting thoughtful innovation, learning or ambition.

Governance, Communications and Facilities 

• Facilitate clear, timely and effective communication and cooperation between the Board of Trustees, CEO and Senior Leadership Team. 
• Support the development of strong governance systems, ensuring that trustees receive the information, insight and assurance required to fulfil their responsibilities effectively. 
• Work closely with trustees through the Finance and Audit committee 
• Oversee the organisation’s IT infrastructure and digital systems through external providers, ensuring that they remain secure, reliable and appropriate for Sister System’s needs. 
• Oversee the effective operation of Sister System’s physical workspace within a fully managed office environment, working with building management and relevant external providers where required. 
• Ensure that Sister System provides a safe, welcoming and accessible environment for girls and young women, staff, volunteers, visitors and partners across its hub, spoke locations and external activities. 
• Ensure that appropriate health and safety systems, procedures and responsibilities are understood, implemented and regularly reviewed. 

Person Specification 
We are seeking an experienced, dynamic and values-led operational leader to join Sister System’s Senior Leadership Team. You will combine sound judgement and strong organisational skills with a warm, collaborative leadership style and a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for care-affected girls and young women. 

You do not need to be a specialist in every area of the role. You will, however, need the confidence and experience to lead across a broad operational portfolio, work effectively with professional advisers and external providers, and provide clear, practical advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees. 

Essential Experience and Knowledge 

• Significant experience in a senior operations, finance, people, governance or organisational leadership role within a charity, social enterprise or similarly values-led organisation. 
• Experience of translating organisational strategy into clear priorities, plans, systems and measurable outcomes. 
• Experience of developing and managing organisational budgets, forecasts and financial reporting, with the ability to balance quality, impact, affordability and value for money. 
• Experience of supervising or coordinating an external audit process, working effectively with auditors, finance colleagues and the Board. 
• Experience of people planning, performance management and supporting managers to build capable, accountable and high-performing teams. 
• Experience of developing or improving organisational systems, processes and ways of working during a period of growth or change. 
• A sound understanding of charity governance, organisational risk, compliance and the responsibilities of senior leaders and trustees. 
• Experience of working collaboratively with a CEO, senior leadership colleagues, trustees, consultants and external professional advisers. 
• A strong understanding of equity, inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice, and the ability to embed these principles within organisational culture and decision-making. 

Skills and Leadership Approach 

• An approachable, emotionally intelligent and credible leader who can build trust, motivate others and develop effective working relationships across an organisation. 
• The ability to lead with both care and accountability, supporting open feedback and helping colleagues to hold constructive and sometimes crucial conversations. 
• Strong strategic thinking, with the ability to understand the wider organisational picture while maintaining oversight of important operational detail. 
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial, people or operational information clearly and accessibly. 
• Strong organisational and project-management skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, meet deadlines and maintain momentum. 
• Sound judgement and the confidence to provide constructive challenge, identify risks and offer clear recommendations to the CEO and Board. 
• A practical and solution-focused approach, with the ability to move from discussion and planning into coordinated action. 
• The ability to handle sensitive, confidential and personal information professionally and in accordance with Sister System’s policies, data-protection responsibilities and GDPR. 
• Energy, curiosity and enthusiasm for strengthening an ambitious organisation as it prepares to shape and deliver its next strategy. 

Values and Commitment 

• A demonstrable commitment to Sister System’s mission and to improving the opportunities, experiences and outcomes of care-affected girls and young women. 
• The ability to model and champion Sister System’s values: Collaborative, Evidence-based, Masterful, Solution-focused and Tenacious. 
• A commitment to co-curation and to ensuring that the voices, experiences and leadership of girls and young women inform organisational planning and decision-making. 
• A commitment to continuous learning, reflective practice and personal and professional development. 

Desirable 

• Lived experience of the care system, or a strong professional understanding of the experiences of care-affected girls and young women. 
• Experience of working within a founder-led organisation or alongside a founder CEO. 
• Experience of supporting an organisation through growth, restructuring or the development of a new strategy. 
• Knowledge of culturally competent, trauma-informed or relational approaches to working with young people. 
• A relevant professional qualification or equivalent experience in operations, finance, human resources, governance or organisational leadership. 
• Experience working with social care and educational service providers (statutory and third sector). 
• Knowledge of the Charity SORP, Charity Commission reporting requirements, and other third-sector financial regulation. 

Sister System is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

This post is subject to two satisfactory reference checks and DBS enhanced disclosure.

How to apply

Please apply via our recruitment platform Breathe by 31st August 2026. You will be asked to upload your CV and answer the following questions:

Values alignment 
Sister System's model is built on co-curation (working with girls and young women, not simply for them) and on being Collaborative, Evidence-based, Masterful, Solution-focused and Tenacious. Which of these values do you feel most aligned with, and which do you find hardest to live up to in practice?
 
People & Culture
Sister System is a founder-led organisation, underpinned by race and gender equity and a culturally competent, trauma-informed approach to working with girls and young women. Tell us about a time you strengthened internal culture of this nature within a team. What resistance did you meet, and what was different a year later?

Finance 
A key element of the role is monitoring income against budget for current and future years. Charity income can provide additional complexities, particularly with different types of grants. Please explain your understanding of these complexities, and how they impact on recording and reporting, including examples from your own experience if relevant. 

Timeline
Deadline for applications: End of day Monday 31st August 2026 
First round interviews: w/c 7th September 
Second round interviews: w/c 14th September
Decisions made: by 22nd September 

Thank you for your interest in joining Sister System in our mission to inspire and empower young women. 

About the role 
This role will provide cross team support to both the School Partnerships and the Teaching and Learning functions of the charity. Within the School Partnerships team, they will play a key role in supporting effective engagement of school and MAT partners by ensuring the smooth running of both day-to-day operations and longer-term projects. This element of the role is central to developing and maintaining relationships with schools and MATs, while also managing essential administrative processes, communications, reporting and systems. Within the Teaching and Learning function, they will support the delivery of the training, curriculum design and quality assurance of tutors working across The Brilliant Club’s Access Programmes and Projects. The role leads on several administrative processes, including course design, tutor training and programme team liaison, engaging with stakeholders both internally and externally to ensure that tutors and curriculum documents are of the highest quality when they arrive in schools. It’s a varied and dynamic position that helps keep our teams connected, organised and working efficiently.
 

About you 
The role will best suit someone who: 

• Has excellent organisational skills, including the ability to balance complex and competing needs; 
• Is a collaborative and strong team player, including supporting those in other teams during peak periods; 
• Has a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, is enthusiastic about working with data and records, and can produce high quality documents with excellent attention to detail; 
• Takes initiative to complete and improve administrative processes; 
• Adheres to information security policies included in the charity’s ISO 27001 manual and completes information security training; 
• Has a demonstrable passion for furthering The Brilliant Club’s mission. 

Making The Leap is an innovative societal change charity that aims to make a big difference. From direct delivery, to advocacy and leadership, we refuse to stay in our lane and believe passionately that those we exist to serve have the right to be anything they want to be. To say that this is an exciting time for the organisation would be an understatement, as our incredible funders, donors, partners and supporters have given us the chance to move to the next level, and have further influence and delivery nationally.

We provide skills training, school and mentoring programmes, and partner with businesses who want to drive forward social mobility via learning programmes, internships, job opportunities and more.

Our aim is to ensure everyone has access to a good standard of living and equality of opportunity, no matter what their or their parents’ occupation or background is.

We are looking for a Senior Evaluation and Impact Officer to evaluate the impact of our delivery activities with young adults and students, and to support the Head of Research and Advocacy to produce our annual Impact Reports.

We are based in London and support young people via our direct delivery programmes. We take what we learn from our work and use it to inspire businesses across the UK to do more to improve social mobility (making sure people from all backgrounds get fair opportunities).

Reports to: Director of Programmes

Hours: Full time with flexible hours. Core hours are 10am to 4pm

Location: Hybrid. London (Embankment) on Wednesdays and Thursdays and remote

working

Salary: £44,748 p.a.

Contract: 12-month maternity contract

Benefits:

• 25 days annual leave, UK bank holidays and one volunteering day a year, one day for moving home

• A highly competitive pension (up to 11% employer contribution for 5% employee contribution)

• Private health insurance, eye tests and medical checks

• Flexible working: core hours from 10am to 4pm with a minimum of two days spent in the office in London each week (currently Wednesdays and Thursdays)

• 24/7 access to counselling and wellbeing resources through our Employee Assistance Programme

• Income protection insurance and life assurance

• Cycle to work scheme, season ticket loan and gym membership loan

• Free access to The Economist content, including an online subscription, our range of apps, podcasts and more

ABOUT US

The Economist Educational Foundation is a fast-growing charity on a mission to ensure that every child is empowered to think critically and communicate effectively about the world’s most complex current issues.

In 2025-6 our core programme, Topical Talk, more than doubled its reach to over 1 million young people in 99 countries. We are at a time of great opportunity, in England and internationally, and have ambitious plans to keep growing and deepen our impact further.

Topical Talk helps children join inspiring discussions about the news by providing:

• Topical Talk Headlines – award-winning weekly lessons for classroom discussions about global news stories

• Leadership for Change Prize – child-led solutions to complex global issues

• Community partnerships – support and training for teachers via partnerships with Multi-Academy Trusts in the UK and School Districts in America

Our programme has received international recognition, including from HundrED as one of the top 100 education initiatives, from UNESCO as a winner of the Global Media and Information Literacy Awards 2022 and from the Money And Inclusion Awards (MAIA) for best content in 2025.

THE ROLE

We are seeking a visionary educational content writer and high-impact Senior Lead to maintain the quality of our world-class educational programmes. This is a unique role for a creative thinker with a deep pedagogical background and a relentless passion for bringing global current affairs to the heart of the classroom. Working in collaboration with our programmes team, and leveraging the journalistic excellence of The Economist Group, you will define the standard for global news education.

In this fixed-term role, you won't just create lessons; you will engineer innovative, nuanced, discussion-based frameworks that challenge children to master complex global topics and build essential critical-thinking and communication skills. As a Senior Lead, you will drive the development of our Headlines programme, aligned with our ambitious strategic goals, bringing flair and originality to our globally-relevant resources.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Design world-class classroom resources

• Research, pitch and execute sophisticated lesson plans that distill the world's biggest issues into diverse, nuanced and rich learning experiences

• Set the benchmark for quality by writing, editing and proofreading high-impact teaching resources

• Collaborate with our Graphic Designer to ensure our content is as visually compelling as it is intellectually rigorous

• Apply our house style, pedagogical approach and editorial voice consistently across all content

Programme leadership and innovation

• Proactively analyse shifts in global curricula and educational trends to ensure our products remain the market leader

• Craft high-level website copy and teacher-facing materials that articulate the unique value of our programmes

• Conduct school visits to observe, evaluate and occasionally model the delivery of Topical Talk lessons

• Partner with the Director of Programmes to implement rigorous monitoring and evaluation frameworks which track and scale programme success

Workshop delivery

• End-to-end execution of student workshops and events, from the idea-generation stage to writing, proofreading, delivery and evaluation

• Deliver expert-led training that empowers teachers to maximise the impact of our resources

Strategic relationship management

• Work at the highest level with The Economist’s journalists to translate complex global issues into engaging educational content

• Identify and interview world-leading topic experts to enrich our work with unique insights

• Manage complex timelines and stakeholder expectations with precision to ensure all milestones are met

This role will involve some travel. It also involves working with young people, so you will need to have an enhanced DBS check (which The Foundation will organise).

SKILLS AND BEHAVIOURS

Whether you are a top-performing teacher, a seasoned journalist, or a leader in the content-writing sector, you possess the following:

• A passion for the news and global current affairs

• An unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation through a deep understanding of the news

• A track record of creative "outside-the-box" lesson design that develops critical thinking and oracy

• The ability to quickly break down, not dumb down, complex current issues to make them accessible to children, whilst commanding the respect of subject-matter experts

• The power to quickly engage a classroom of new students and bring your lessons to life

• The expertise to approach complex topics with balance and political neutrality – you are able to share a variety of views to enrich learning

• A self-starting mindset. You operate independently to maintain a relentless standard of excellence

• Exceptional attention to detail combined with superior project and time-management skills

• A collaborative nature. You thrive in a team-based environment to achieve collective goals

EXPERIENCE

You have…

• Qualified Teacher Status (or equivalent): at least two years of high-impact experience teaching 10-18-year olds backed by up-to-date knowledge of educational research and developments

• Experience in journalism, international relations, politics, or proven success in using current affairs as stimuli for classroom engagement

• A portfolio of inspiring, high-quality classroom resources developed both independently and through collaboration

• Demonstrated experience in designing, testing and scaling initiatives with measurable impact

You might have…

• Proficiency in creating and editing video or digital content

• Experience in educational content creation within diverse environments outside the traditional classroom

We're particularly keen for you to apply if you are from a community under-represented in the charity sector or have lived experience of facing extra barriers because of your background.

About us

Community rail is a unique and growing grassroots movement made up of community rail partnerships, station volunteer groups and other community-led initiatives across Britain.

Together, these organisations and volunteers deliver a wide range of initiatives, from engaging young people and building confidence in rail travel, to improving accessibility, enhancing stations, supporting biodiversity projects and creating community spaces that bring people together.

Community Rail Network is the national membership and umbrella body for the community rail movement across England, Scotland and Wales. We empower, support and champion community-led partnerships and groups, helping them create social, environmental and economic value through their work.

Our team of 22 colleagues is based across Britain, working mainly from home while coming together regularly online and in person. We are a collaborative, values-led organisation, passionate about making a difference through community rail.

We believe in nurturing talent, supporting professional development and creating an environment where everyone can reach their potential while maintaining a healthy work–life balance.

About this role and your main responsibilities

We are looking for a compassionate, collaborative and creative leader to head up our work with members. Everyone on the team is here for our members, but you will lead the way in ensuring everything we do is driven by what members need, now and in the future, to help them develop, grow and thrive. You’ll also help ensure our members have a great experience whenever they are accessing our support and services.

As a member of the senior leadership team, you’ll actively contribute towards its collective work in driving organisational performance and success, including growing investment in our work so we can make an even bigger difference for our members and the communities they serve.

Please see the attached introduction from our Chief Executive and role profile for further information about the position, including its principal responsibilities and the experience, skills and attributes we are looking for.

Other information

The role will involve regular travel across England, Scotland and Wales to raise the organisation’s profile and engage with members, partners and key stakeholders.

There is flexibility on your location given the requirement to travel and that your office will be home-based. You will need to travel to in-person quarterly team meetings (usually in London or the north of England) and to Board meetings which alternate between online and London.

It is expected that travel will be by public transport and easy access to the rail network is therefore required to ensure journeys can be made sustainably. 

This is a full-time position, 37 hours per week. We use a flexi-time system with core hours 10am-3pm, and are committed to being a flexible, supportive and understanding employer. This is a permanent position with a probationary period of three months. 

Successful applicants will need to provide proof that they have the right to work in the UK and provide two references.

Community Rail Network is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and Black, Asian and other minoritised groups, who meet with the skills and competencies for this role. We will provide reasonable adjustments for interviews as required.