Director of retail and community fundraising jobs

What we're building

Every year, 3,000+ swimmers take on some of the UK's most iconic open water challenges, including the Dart10k, Bantham Swoosh and The Hurly Burly along with our growing series of 24-hour Wild Swim Relays. They swim so that disabled kids who need it most can get life-changing swimming lessons.

Last year, these swimmers raised over £1m. This year, we want to double it. And we need someone who can help us get there.

We're Level Water, a founder-led charity solving learn-to-swim for disabled children. We're not your typical charity. We own the events and run them like a business.  We move fast, test everything, and we're building something that doesn't exist anywhere else.

We've just brought in a new Fundraising Director, and this role is a cornerstone of the team we're building. If you want to help define how a modern charity does supporter care, this is your chance.

The opportunity

This isn't a "send some emails and answer some queries" role. This is a "build something and make it brilliant" role.

You'll own the entire experience for our 3,000 swimmers from the moment they sign up, through their training and fundraising journey, to the event itself (yes, you'll be there), and beyond. You'll design the journey, execute it, measure it, improve it, and scale it.

You'll have the freedom to experiment. Want to test a new communication sequence? Build a WhatsApp community? Launch a training programme? Run in-person meet ups? Create a membership product? Brilliant, build the business case and let's do it.

You'll work with real people who are doing something remarkable. You'll get to know them, thank them, support them, and help them raise more money than they thought possible. And you'll do it in a way that makes them want to come back year after year.

You'll also work closely with our Fundraising Director, Events and Marketing teams to turn our swimmers into our best marketing channel, because the people who've experienced our events are the ones who'll bring their friends next year.

And you'll grow with us. We're scaling fast, and we need people who can scale with us, whether that's into senior leadership, building out new teams, or launching new products.

This is a mission-critical role in driving Level Water’s income growth. Every strong supporter relationship you build helps unlock more funded swimming lessons, bringing us closer to a future where every disabled child can have a great swimming lesson with a confident, qualified teacher.

This is the most exciting job in the charity sector for the right person.

What you'll actually do

This role owns the supporter experience as a growth engine. You’ll set strategy, drive innovation, and be accountable for how supporter care translates into income, retention and long-term loyalty. You’ll work closely with the Senior Leadership Team to shape priorities, influence decisions, and build something that scales - not just for this year’s events, but for the future of Level Water.

Build relationships that matter

• Get to know our swimmers. Design the experience. Call them. Thank them. Make them feel valued.

• Be there at events throughout the summer meeting people, creating unforgettable experiences, and giving them reasons to come back.

• Deliver the personal touches that deepen connections: handwritten cards, phone calls, training tips, impact updates, recognition, celebration.

Design and optimise the supporter journey

• Own the end-to-end experience: from sign-up emails to post-event stewardship.

• Map out communications across our events portfolio throughout the year and execute them brilliantly.

• Use data to spot opportunities; where are people dropping off? Where can we increase average fundraising? What messages work best?

• Test everything. Buttons, subject lines, timing, tone obsess over the details that drive results.

Identify and unlock growth opportunities

• Spot the swimmers who could become major donors, corporate partners, or monthly givers and move them along that journey.

• Cross-sell and upsell: if someone's just completed their first challenge, how do we make them another offer that they can’t refuse? 

Track, report, and improve

• Keep our CRM up to date and use it intelligently.

• Report regularly on what's working and what's not: fundraising targets, engagement metrics, retention rates.

• Stay ahead of the curve: what are the best organisations doing? What can we learn and adapt?

Who we're looking for

We care much more about how you work than what you've done. You don't need fundraising experience. You don't need charity sector experience. You don't even need customer success experience though if you have it, great.

What you do need:

• Hustle and drive. You take ownership. You spot opportunities and go after them. You don't wait to be told what to do. You’re looking for opportunities. 

• A knack for building relationships. You genuinely care about people and you're good at making them feel it whether that's over email, on the phone, or in person.

• A data brain. You can look at numbers and spot the story. You know that "engagement is up 12%" means something, and you know how to act on it.

• A bias for action. You test things. You move fast. You're comfortable with uncertainty and you learn by doing.

• An entrepreneurial mindset. You think like an owner. If this were your business, how would you grow it?

• Ambition. You want to grow. You want to get better. You want to build something you're proud of.

• Organisation: Strong attention to detail, with the ability to juggle multiple projects and stay calm under pressure.

Bonus points if:

• You love being outdoors (swimming, hiking, wild camping, anything that gets you outside).

• You've worked in a startup, scale-up, or high-growth environment.

• You've designed customer journeys, retention strategies, or growth loops.

• You've worked in sales, account management, hospitality, retail management, or anything that required you to build relationships and hit targets.

Why Level Water?

Our values - Bold, Driven, Personal, and Joyful - are at the heart of this role. You’ll be expected to bring ambition, move with purpose, care deeply about people, and help create experiences that feel genuinely joyful to be part of. 

• Bold. This isn't a "follow the playbook" role. We want your ideas. We want you to challenge us. We want you to help us build something better.

• Driven. We're growing fast and we need people who can scale with us. If you're ambitious, there's a huge opportunity here.

• Personal. We're a small, founder-led team. We move fast, we debate hard, we test everything, and we care deeply about what we do.

• Joyful. You'll work on some of the most iconic outdoor swims in the UK. You'll be part of creating experiences that people remember forever.

Practical details:

• Flexible working: remote, hybrid, or (even better) office-based in Tunbridge Wells or Exeter, your choice.

• You'll attend weekend events throughout the summer (with time off in lieu).

• Salary: £30k-£45k depending on experience. 

How to apply

We want to hear from you in whatever way best shows us who you are and how you think.

Get creative. We really want to get a feel for your personality and style. A traditional CV and cover letter? Absolutely fine. A video introduction? Great. A presentation deck? Bring it on. Whatever format helps you shine and show us who you are. 

Here's what we'd love to know:

1. How you think about supporter experience:
   Imagine one of our swimmers has just signed up for the Dart10k but hasn't started fundraising yet. Walk us through how you'd engage them over the next 8 weeks to help them raise as much as possible and feel brilliant about it.

2. What excites you about this role:
   Tell us why this opportunity appeals to you specifically.

3. Something you're proud of:
   Share one thing you've built, grown, or improved. Doesn't have to be in charity or even at work, it could be anything that shows your drive and ability to make things happen.

Before you apply:

If you've got questions about the role, the team, or whether this might be right for you, please reach out. I'm Andy Punter, Fundraising Director at Level Water, and I'd genuinely love to chat.

Deadline: 

We're reviewing applications on a rolling basis and will close this advert once we've found the right person. So if this excites you, don't wait, but do take the time to show us who you really are. 

We'd rather see your best work than a rushed application. If you need a bit of time to put that together, talk to us.

We're excited to meet you. Let's build something brilliant together.

This is a unique chance to combine clinical expertise, leadership, and compassion in a role that can make a genuine impact on people’s lives.

Together, we improve the lives of local people affected by cancer.  We provide wraparound holistic support, information, education and wellbeing services to people affected by cancer across Norfolk and beyond.  As demand for our services continues to grow, we are seeking an exceptional Director of Charitable Operations to join our Executive Leadership Team. In this pivotal role, you’ll help shape the future of our work and ensure we continue improving the lives of local people affected by cancer.

About the Role

As a key member of Big C’s Executive leadership team, you will bring a specialist knowledge of cancer and act as an ambassador for the charity in this area of expertise.

You will serve as the clinical lead for the charity with leadership and management responsibilities of our Cancer Support Centres and Hubs, our Health Academy programmes, and of the teams that deliver them.  This includes collaborating with internal colleagues and external partners to ensure the delivery of high-quality, sustainable services for anyone affected by cancer.  An example we are proud of is the practical help with social and financial concerns through our Citizens Advice welfare advisors.

You will also support the Chief Executive with the strategic development and direction of Big C’s cancer support services and health academy programmes. This role requires clinical expertise and demonstrable experience to successfully lead the delivery of Big C’s charitable operations to meet rising demand.

On occasion, like other members of the Executive team, you will be required to deputise for the Chief Executive in their absence.

Location: You will be based in Big C’s office in Centrum, a bright and modern building on Norwich Research Park. Informally, some home working is possible, but you will need to work from the office and other Big C sites regularly.

Hours: 35 hours per week

Salary: £60,000 to £65,000 per annum (subject to skills and experience)

Contract: Permanent

About You

You will be an experienced clinical leader with a strong track record of operating at a senior level, ideally within healthcare or the charity sector. Above all, you will share Big C’s commitment to ensuring that people affected by cancer receive outstanding care, support and education when they need it most.

You will bring:

• Recognised clinical expertise and professional registration, with demonstrable experience in cancer care or related services.
• Strategic leadership experience, with the ability to translate vision into practical, high-quality service delivery.
• Strong people leadership skills, with a compassionate, inclusive and values-driven approach.
• Experience of governance, safeguarding and working effectively with Boards or Trustees.
• Financial and commercial awareness, including budget management and income generation.
• Credibility and confidence to represent Big C with partners, funders and stakeholders.

About Big C

Big C is one of East Anglia’s largest cancer charities, having raised £50 million in 45 years. Each year, our supporters help us raise around £3 million to support people affected by cancer in our community.

We provide holistic care through Cancer Support Centres and Hubs, as well as online and telephone support via our Virtual Support Centre. Income comes from donations, local businesses, grants, legacies, and 12 charity shops across the region.

Why Big C?

Committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, Big C was recently awarded Gold Accreditation for the third time running in the Best Employers Eastern Region 2025 and offers a supportive environment that values wellbeing and work/life balance.

Our benefits include:

• 33 days holiday (FTE, including bank holidays)
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Company sick pay and life assurance
• Health Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Some hybrid working with some flexibility in hours
• Opportunities for professional development

Apply Now

Closing date for applications: Monday 26 January 2026

Please take a look at the vacancy pack for further information and the job description. 

When applying, please complete the online application fully.  Information to support your application can be in your attached covering letter or as indicated in the application. 

If you prefer to apply in a different way or require information in an accessible format, please contact Caroline Roberts, People Manager.

Big C are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults, young adults and children and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. 

This role requires an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and a barred list check. Additionally, your application plays an essential part in our choosing the right person for this position. 

Are you a commercial, values-led leader, who’s looking for a role that gives you the opportunity to shape ambitious new plans and to deliver real impact to your hospice community? Retail at St Nicholas Hospice Care is more than shops — it’s a vital engine that generates over £1m in unrestricted income every year, helping us to ensure everyone in our communities has support, dignity and choice when facing dying, death and grief.

We are entering an exciting new phase, with ambition to grow our retail offer both on the hight street and online, and we’re looking for an exceptional Head of Retail to lead it.

This is a senior role overseeing our entire retail operation: a network of seven shops across West Suffolk, a growing online presence and a donation centre, all delivering high-quality retail experiences while maximising trading and Gift Aid income. You’ll be a key member of the Income Generation Directorate and the Hospice Leadership Team, giving you the opportunity to shape strategy and drive results that truly matter.

If you’re a commercially minded retail leader who thrives on purpose as much as performance, this is a rare opportunity to make a real impact.

Your role

You will:

• Lead, inspire and develop shop managers, staff and volunteers across multiple sites.
• Drive income growth through clear strategy, strong operational planning and performance management.
• Ensure all retail environments reflect our brand, values and commitment to outstanding customer service.
• Lead stock management, merchandising and donation strategies to maximise return.
• Build strong community engagement and supporter relationships.

What you’ll bring

You’ll have:

• Experience leading multi-site retail operations (charity and/or commercial experience welcomed).
• Strong commercial awareness and a track record of improving performance.
• Excellent leadership skills, with a strong focus on coaching, development and engagement to empower your team to achieve success.
• Sound knowledge of charity retail governance, legal and regulatory requirements.
• Confident communication, planning and problem-solving abilities.

Why join St Nic’s?

We offer:

• The opportunity to work for a brilliant life enhancing local hospice, increasing its income and profile to support more patients and their families.
• A supportive, values-driven working environment.
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities.
• Health Cash Plan and wellbeing programme.
• 25 days’ annual leave, increasing with length of service (up to 29 days).
• Competitive pension plan (up to 8% company contribution).
• Life assurance (2x annual salary).
• Free parking and subsidised on-site bistro.
• The opportunity to work from home 1 to 2 days per week.

Job Title: Marketing and Communications Manager (Maternity Cover)

Reporting To: Director of Fundraising

Line Management: This post has no line management responsibilities

Salary: £35,000 - £37,000 (FTE), pro-rata for part time hours

Hours: 28 hours per week, working pattern to be agreed

Contract: 14 months

Location: Currently one day in the office in Kings Cross N1 9LG (Tuesdays)

DBS: This post is subject to an enhanced criminal record check under the arrangements established by the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Context of Job

AFK is a national charity creating opportunities for children and young people who are disabled or neurodiverse, to increase their independence, reach their individual potential and remove the barriers they face. Our vision is a world where there are no barriers to independence for children and young people who are disabled or neurodivergent.

As part of this we offer bespoke employment skills training and organise work experience across North London. At a national level, we provide mobility equipment not available on the NHS for disabled children and young people up to the age of 25.

Overall Job Purpose

As part of the Fundraising and Communications Department this role is responsible for creating bold, inspiring new ideas for the charity across digital, marketing and communications, PR, campaigns and internal communications.

You will be passionate about telling stories to inspire action from external supporters and will have responsibility for executing the marketing plan to support events, partnerships, and campaigns. You’ll also collaborate with the Fundraising and Services Teams to identify our target audiences and make suggestions on how to communicate across multiple channels to best drive engagement.

Your creativity and passion will deliver tailored marketing and communications campaigns and you will work closely with colleagues and external agencies/freelancers as required to influence and engage external stakeholders. You will help to bring our brand promise and our mission to life for colleagues, supporters and the young people we support.

This role will provide practical support to produce videos, social media, and materials to help raise funds, increase our profile and support the wider charity.

Working Conditions

The post is 28 hours a week, split flexibly across the working week (working pattern to be agreed). The post holder may be expected to work some evenings and weekends as required by the job.

28 days annual leave pro rated will be given in addition to public holidays.

There is a TOIL policy.

Working Relationships

This role is all about building strong relationships across the organisation to align marketing and communications with our priorities, juggling income generation, service promotion, and leadership communications.

You'll be the central communications hub, turning organisational goals into engaging content that resonates with our audiences.

You'll work closely with the Fundraising team to create compelling campaigns that engage donors and boost income. You'll partner with our Service Delivery teams to capture great impact stories and share what we do with stakeholders. Regular collaboration with the CEO is key for managing organisational messaging, supporting strategic communications, and keeping our brand consistent.

Principal Responsibilities

· Implement the Marketing and Communications strategy and plan, including tracking progress against KPIs

· Undertake a full and routine evaluation of all marcomms activity including preparing reports for colleagues and the leadership team

· Write briefs for external agencies/freelance support as required

· Oversee the maintenance of a comprehensive suite of marketing collateral that meets needs across the organisation, ensuring there is a cost-effective process in place for commissioning new materials

· Support internal communications by maintaining the Sharepoint hub front page

· Produce design and copy for inclusive and accessible marketing content including off and online for fundraising appeals, service delivery programmes and organisational brand messaging

· Maintain the AFK website, built on Wordpress, and manage the external web hosts and developers to ensure updates are successful and the website reflects brand guidelines and AFK’s tone of voice

· Produce a regular e-newsletter and increase subscribers by promoting the e-news across owned channels

· Manage the AFK social media accounts, working closely with the wider organisation to ensure brand alignment across all social channels

· Oversee the appropriate and consistent use of our brand across all communications touch points by ensuring all internal and external stakeholders have the resources and support required to work within the brand guidelines

· This post currently has no direct reports

org.
Job Description
As the Operations and Visitor Experience Manager, you play a pivotal role at CSC, with full
responsibility for our Centre in Cambridge Science Park and our secondary site, currently in
Wisbech.
An essential part of your role is to drive CSC’s direct revenue streams connected to the Centre.
You will lead your team in generating public and school bookings, and in overseeing community
audiences, private hires, and other groups, ensuring every visitor enjoys a seamless and
welcoming experience. You will also take a proactive approach to increasing visitor numbers,
expanding CSC’s membership base, and researching and developing new revenue-generating
initiatives that strengthen our long-term sustainability.
Your expertise in creating and implementing exhibition spaces will be instrumental in bringing to
life our annual delivery calendar of science themes, which is strategically curated to attract and
engage our audiences while supporting the delivery of our Programmes. You will oversee an
annual budget covering the shop and site facilities.
You will work closely with the Outreach and Innovation Manager to prioritise, schedule, and
maintain products and content in line with CSC’s core Programmes and commitments, ensuring
impactful experiences for all audiences. In collaboration with the Marketing and Communications
Manager, you will plan and execute advertising campaigns targeting both the public and schools.
You will also coordinate with the Corporate Partnerships Manager to develop opportunities for
corporate partners to support on-site exhibitions and events, ensuring agreed partnerships are
effectively tracked and delivered.
Beyond operations, you will champion excellence in STEM engagement, providing both positive
and constructive feedback to the Engagement and Logistics Lead to ensure CSC’s offerings
remain best-in-class. This is an opportunity to shape the visitor experience at CSC, ensuring it
remains dynamic, inspiring, and accessible to all.
Key Responsibilities
● Create a welcoming and engaging environment for all visitors to our centres.
● Support and line-manage the Delivery and Sales Administrator and the Finance and
Operational Support Manager.
● Take overall responsibility for Health and Safety across CSC sites, ensuring full compliance
with requirements at both centres. Implement corrective actions where needed, and
oversee training and incident management to maintain a safe and well-managed
environment.
● Achieve annual direct income revenue targets across Visitors, Membership, Shop, Schools,
Parties, and STEMtots (under-fives), track progress, report findings, and take corrective
action as needed.
● Develop and implement strategies to increase visitor numbers and drive membership
growth.
● Research, plan, and execute new revenue projects to diversify CSC’s income streams.
● Oversee asset records, maintenance priorities, budgets, contractors, and expenditures
across the Cambridge and Wisbech sites, ensuring the effective sourcing and delivery of
third-party exhibits and content.
● Deliver an annual plan for exhibition-floor themes, events, and site management,
coordinating with the Outreach and Innovation Manager and the Engagement and Logistics
Lead to align activities with multi-year programmes, partner commitments, and internal
schedules such as training and exhibit maintenance.
● Establish a multi-layered feedback system to collect, analyse, and act on visitor insights,
continuously enhancing our offering.
● Oversee CSC’s volunteering and work experience programme, ensuring recruitment,
induction, and ongoing support are delivered to a high standard.
● Work with the Director of Business Development to identify and address barriers for
schools, supporting bursary applications and additional funding opportunities.
● In coordination with your team, ensure the shop is stocked with appropriate products to
maximise sales, support at-home engagement with STEM after a family visit and promote a
message of sustainability.
● Increase school bookings through strategic planning, aligning with schools’ annual planning
cycles, targeted outreach, and the effective delivery of engagement programmes.
● Work with the Marketing & Communications Manager to plan and deliver advertising for
exhibitions, events, and school engagement, ensuring effective promotion of activities at
both the Cambridge and Wisbech centres.
● Manage the budget and oversee all contractors and expenditures related to the Cambridge
site and Wisbech.
● Provide financial support, working closely with the Director of Operations and Engagement
to ensure CSC’s operational sustainability.
Essential Criteria

Experience managing a visitor attraction, including responsibility for income targets and
cost control.
● A creative and engaging mindset, with a proven ability to work with a team to create
intriguing and popular spaces.
● A thorough and operational approach to planning, risk management, and the continuous
improvement of processes.
● Demonstrated success in increasing visitor numbers and driving membership growth
through strategic planning and effective execution.
● Experience in researching, planning, and delivering new revenue-generating projects.
● A strong track record of increasing school bookings through targeted outreach and strategic
programme design.
● Comprehensive knowledge of health and safety management, including experience in
leading compliance activity and training across multiple sites.
● Strong financial acumen, with the ability to support budgeting, forecasting, and operational
financial oversight
● Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
● A strong drive to deliver timely, high-quality outcomes in everything you do.
● Proven ability to adapt quickly and effectively to changing priorities.
● A commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
● A collaborative work ethic, enabling you to work effectively with colleagues and partners
across a wide range of projects.
● Competent and confident in using standard computer applications.
● Achieve a satisfactory enhanced DBS check
● Full clean driving license
● Confident in using IT platforms, databases, and digital communication tools.
Desirable Criteria
● A passion for staying up to date with worldwide developments in science, technology,
engineering, and maths.
● Experience in using spaces to support learning or community development.
● Knowledge of sustainability practices in operations and visitor engagement.
● Project management qualifications or equivalent experience.
● Experience with CRM systems and membership platforms
● Experience in science communication or in working with families, adults, and children.
● Strong customer service skills and experience.
● Level 3 or equivalent qualification in a STEM subject.
Working Conditions

The primary location for this role is Cambridge Science Centre at Trinity Centre, Cambridge
Science Park, CB4 0FN; however, travel to secondary sites and the main office will be required.
One working weekend per month will also be required.

Harris Hill is delighted to be working with Liverpool Zoe’s Place (LZP) to recruit its first Chief Executive Officer.

Zoe's Place was founded in Liverpool in 1995 as the first hospice in the UK specifically providing for the needs of babies and younger children. Liverpool Zoe’s Place (LZP) was established in December 2024 and took over full responsibility for the management of the hospice on May 1st 2025. In late 2024 the people of Liverpool, the North West, and even further afield helped us to raise more than £7,000,000 to secure the future of our hospice, and to build a state-of-the-art new facility in West Derby.

Our team of specialist nurses and healthcare assistants are supported by a wide range of other healthcare professionals to provide respite care, therapies and bereavement care to babies and children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, and their families.

As Chief Executive, you will:

· Bring inspirational leadership to the LZP.

· Manage, plan and implement LZP’s strategy.

· Ensure the Hospice provides and promotes excellent clinical care.

If you are inspired and excited by what Liverpool Zoe’s Place does, we’d love to hear from you.

Job title: Chief Executive Officer

Salary: £75,000 - £80,000 p.a.

Contract: Permanent / Full-time

Location: Zoe's Place, Yew Tree Lane, West Derby, Liverpool, L12 9HH

How to apply:

Please review the Recruitment Pack for further information about Liverpool Zoe’s Place, the CEO position and for details on how to apply.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Friday 13th February 2026

Both Liverpool Zoe’s Place and Harris Hill operate an equal opportunity policy and commit to treating all of our candidates and jobseekers fairly. We welcome and encourage applications from everyone regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

This is a senior leadership role accountable for award winning high performing shops that deliver + £3.5m in sales in the context of an ambitious and developing trading strategy.  The post holder is directly accountable for sustaining and building this performance leading a team of staff and volunteers and in working as part of the central trading and wider hospice teams.  The role combines sales and profit targets, creativity, accountability, empathic people skills and a passion for trading. Our retail business is a key driver for organisational success. The Hospice of St Francis Charity provides essential free care across West Hertfordshire and South Buckinghamshire.  More than 80% of the income we spend comes from trading and fundraising. Our retail performance (sales and profit) benchmarks at the very top of the sector with award winning and innovative retail formats supported by a strong volunteer base and shop team delivering outstanding customer service. 

Main duties and responsibilities:

· Line management and mentoring 5 direct line reports and oversight accountability for a team of 33 whole time equivalent employees (53 people) and 500 volunteers

· Maintain and improve our performance at the top of the charity retail sector nationally

· Hold oversight of leases and ensure effective lease management

· Accountability for delivering more than £3.5m in annual sales, with levels of engagement, profit and performance that deliver the strategic aims of the Charity

· Accountability for retail Gift Aid income and HMRC compliance assuring at least £300k annually from retail claims

· Project manage the process of new shop openings as required

· Accountability for customer complaints, health and safety, fire safety and environmental health across all retail premises working closely with our estates team to assure compliance

· Ensure our shops operate as a physical and digital front door to the hospice, creating a dynamic interactive culture

· Collaborate effectively with peers and colleagues, operating in adherence to the values and ethos of the Hospice

· Contribute to the design, development and implementation of the trading road map, annual budget and profit projections, annually and over 3- 5-year timescales to match the strategic development timelines of the Charity

· Maximise the potential of Electronic Point of Sale to drive performance and provide regular KPI reports internally at all levels, motivating the shop teams, in accountability to the Trading Board and our committees, Board and AGM

· Maintain an up to date understanding of high street trends and charity retail trends and ensure our merchandising, product development, social media and retail innovation maintains our competitive edge

· Assure windows and shop floors meet the highest standards of engagement and stand out on the high street embedding the ‘owned brand’ and social impact

· Accountable for ensuring a programme of community engagement and events where our shops are community hubs

· Leading projects including lead responsibilities in the set up and opening of new shops

· Implementation of goal setting, career development reviews and routine and regular supervision and team meetings to build an inspiring successful team culture and empower individual performance

· Use a range of digital systems effectively in the management of the business and in communication, including social media, on-line analysis of reach and click rates

· Represent the Trading Directorate at Health and Safety Committee, attend the Trading Board, as required Income generation committee and deputise for the Director at Executive Meetings, deputising for the Director of Sustainable Trading as required

· Embeds equality, diversity and inclusion across trading processes and practices

· Represent the organisation as ambassador and contribute to maintaining the wider public presence of the Charity.

Key Accountabilities, Responsibilities & Tasks

Departmental & Role Specifics 

· Set objectives that are realistic and encourage outstanding performance, in a supportive team culture with effective individual supervision, support and training to ensure our performance continues to benchmark nationally at the top of the charity retail sector.

· The senior responsible manager in Trading, holding overall accountability for all aspects of our charity retail operation

· As an ambassador for the organisation maintaining excellent relationships with all suppliers and partners

· Lead a team of 33 whole time equivalent employees (51 people) and 500 volunteers to deliver at least £3.5m in sales and at least £300k in gift aid annually

· Ensure our shops operate as a physical and digital front door to the hospice, creating a dynamic interactive culture

· Lead, manage and coach a culture of openness to engage the diversity of the community as customers, donors, staff and volunteers

· Detailed understanding and analysis of data from a range of sources in order to collate and provide timely effective verbal and written reports, to agreed schedules, reporting on and managing performance, risk, variance, effectiveness, trends and the cut through impact of innovation

· Collaborate internally and with external partners to maintain a range of projects with local colleges teaching and training in fashion, design and social media, including joint events and succession pipelines with apprenticeships, DoE volunteer placements and internships

· Hold oversight of leases and ensure effective lease management

· Accountability for customer complaints, health and safety, fire safety and environmental health across all retail premises working closely with our estates team to assure compliance

· Project manage the process of new shop openings as required

· Collaborate effectively with peers and colleagues, operating in adherence to the values and ethos of the Hospice

Lead with compassion. Inspire through purpose. Shape the future of Hospiscare.

Hospiscare has been at the heart of our community for over 40 years, providing outstanding specialist end-of-life care and support to people and their families across Exeter, Mid and East Devon. As we look to the future, we are seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead our charity with vision, empathy and strategic strength.

The opportunity

This is a pivotal leadership role — guiding a much-loved local charity through a period of challenge but also opportunity. You’ll work closely with a dedicated Board of Trustees and an experienced Leadership Teams to shape and deliver our strategic goals, ensuring Hospiscare remains resilient, sustainable, and true to our founding values of care, compassion, and dignity.

You’ll be the public face and voice of Hospiscare — inspiring confidence among our staff, volunteers, supporters, healthcare partners, and the wider community. Your leadership will ensure we continue to deliver the highest standards of specialist palliative care while innovating to meet the changing needs of our patients and our community.

About you

You are an accomplished and compassionate leader, able to inspire and unite people around a shared purpose. With substantial senior leadership experience — ideally gained in the charity or health and social care sectors — you bring a track record of shaping strategy, managing complex budgets, and achieving sustainable results.

You’ll understand the challenges facing healthcare and charitable organisations and bring creative, collaborative solutions. You are confident working with a Board, comfortable in the public eye, and driven by a genuine commitment to making a difference to people’s lives at the most profound of times.

Key strengths you’ll bring

• Strategic vision and proven experience leading organisational change and growth
• Strong understanding of governance, finance, and regulatory environments
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills — connecting easily and authentically with people from all walks of life
• A leadership style that combines compassion, clarity, and courage
• A deep alignment with Hospiscare’s mission and values

Why join Hospiscare?

At Hospiscare, you’ll find a community of extraordinary people — staff and volunteers dedicated to providing the very best care and support when it matters most. This is more than a leadership role; it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact on a vital local charity and the lives of countless people in Devon.

We are working with Charity Recruitment Consultant, Jackie Dawkins of Shine Charity Recruitment,who is supporting our search.  For further details about Hospiscare, please read the Recruitment Pack 

Key Dates:

• Closing Date – 26th January 2026 at 5pm
• First Interview with Jackie Dawkins (via Zoom) – 2nd/3rd February 2026
• Shortlisted candidates informal meeting with Chair – 23rd February 2026
• Interview and Assessment Day at Hospiscare – 24th February 2026

The post holder will be expected to demonstrate full commitment to the vision and values of Willowbrook Hospice. The role will be crucial in ensuring we are able to ‘Deliver the best care, delivered with compassion for our community’.

The Head of Finance’s key priorities, in close collaboration with the Executive Leadership Team, are to lead and support the strategic and annual financial planning processes, and to prepare and analyse accurate and timely financial information for the Board of Trustees and the Directors of the Trading Company, ensuring compliance with all external financial reporting requirements.

Main Duties:

1. To provide an effective and accurate financial management and accountancy service to the Executive Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company.

2.   Prepare annual budgets and monitor performance on a monthly basis against plan by the preparation and issue of monthly budget statements.  Make recommendations on costing assumptions to be included within all budgets. For example, inflation rates.

3. Support the strategic direction of the business by leading on the preparation of 5 year financial forecasts to support strategic planning and to ensure the long term financial viability of the business. 

4.   Prepare and maintain financial accounts in a timely fashion and ensure they are consistent with external financial reporting standards and requirements.

5.  Provide monthly financial information to the Executive Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company.

6. Prepare cash flow reports on a regular/quarterly basis and monitor cash requirements and advise the Board of Trustees, Directors of the Trading Company and Executive Leadership Team on the liquidity position of the business.

7.  Provide advice on all financial matters, including issues arising in connection with charity legislation, to ensure that the business meets its legal financial obligations and complies will all external regulatory requirements.

 8. Liaise with H.M. Revenue and Customs and VAT consultants regarding records and payments and ensure compliance with all regulations.   

9. Ensure the provision of a monthly payroll service and ensure delivery of an accurate, reliable and quality payroll service to all staff.

10. To liaise with all regulatory external bodies in connection with any financial or charity matters, i.e. auditors, accountants, bank, solicitors, Charity Commission, Companies House, insurance company, pension advisors and others.

11. Annual completion of the Charity Commission self-assessment, ensuring that we comply with best practice. 

12. Attend the meetings of the local networking groups as required.

13. Review and monitor performance of the business’s investments and provide up to date reports to the Board of Trustees, enabling them to make appropriate investment decisions.

14. As part of financial reporting, complete regular analysis of all income and expenditure, supporting budget holders as required to identify areas where cost savings and efficiencies can be made.

15. Support in the preparation of business cases as necessary across the business.

16. Support in the preparation of benchmarking information to assist in the determination of opportunities to improve the organisation’s financial position.

17. Support the business’s efforts to maximise income from all sources providing financial information and attending committees and other forums as required to assist in this.

18. Develop and maintain an asset register of all property across the business. Ensure capital accounting policies are agreed annually by the Finance Committee. 

19. Ensure appropriate financial procedures, financial governance and policies are in place across the business and ensure they are regularly reviewed and appropriate. 

 20. Ensure good systems of financial control and checks are in place for all assets. 

21.To manage and support staff in the Finance Department, ensuring they have the right knowledge and skills to carry out their duties effectively.

22. Ensure that all members of the leadership team (ELT and SLT) and the board have the necessary knowledge and support regarding financial matters including the provision of training if necessary.

23. Attend committees and key meetings  to present relevant financial information at the request of the Executive Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company.

 Performance Standards:

1. Annual income and expenditure budgets are approved annually and monitored monthly.

2. Management Accounts are aimed to be completed within 10 working days of month end and available for the Executive Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company.

3. Regulatory requirements are met as and when they fall due.

4. The provision of an accurate and reliable set of annual financial statements.

5. Meet with statutory and external organisations in a timely and professional manner.

6. Quarterly VAT returns, Annual Corporation Tax returns and other statutory returns are submitted in a timely manner.

7. With regard to financial records and reporting, to comply with and meet the standards of the Care Quality Commission.

8. Completion of all Charity Commission regulatory requirements.

9. Ensure that we have robust financial systems in place for all assets and liabilities incorporating monthly reviews of creditors and debtors.

10.  Ensure financial information requirements of the Executive Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company are met in a timely manner. 

11. Ensure that the business has financial systems and processes in place that will comply with regulatory requirements for healthcare services. 

12. Be an active member of the Senior Leadership Team participating in all relevant meetings contributing where possible, to the achievement of business objectives.

13. To take rotational responsibility as Out of Hours Duty Manager, if required.

14. Provide advice, support and information to the Executive Leadership Team; Board of Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company on financial matters enabling the business to meet its objectives.

General Duties:

1. To liaise with Head of Human Resources to advise, where necessary, on all salary and pension matters, keeping up to date with changing legislation.

2. To communicate with the banks, HMRC, Department of Work and Pensions and all other relevant external bodies regarding all pension, tax and National Insurance issues.

3. To liaise with all Senior Leadership team colleagues to ensure payroll data is accurate and kept up to date.

4. To liaise with the Head of Fundraising in matters relating to fundraising income and expenditure and the fundraising and lottery database, ensuring that any information is an accurate reflection of income and expenditure.

5. To liaise with the Head of Retail in matters relating to the trading company’s income and expenditure, ensuring that all information provided is accurate.

6. To verify that insurance cover is appropriate and adequate for the various business functions and to ensure that it is kept up to date.

7. To ensure that there is compliance across the business with financial statutory regulations and internal financial policies.

8. Ensure that there is a robust information governance regime across all financial matters across the business.

9. To undertake and manage the annual appraisal process for the Finance Team, identifying any training and development needs.

10.  Ensure that all members of the Finance Team attend mandatory and statutory training as required and that evaluations are undertaken to monitor effectiveness.

11. The post holder will adhere to all relevant legislation and policies of the business.

12.  Any other reasonable duties as directed by the Executive Leadership Team, the Boarof Trustees and Directors of the Trading Company.

We are seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer / Deputy CEO to help lead our growing organisation through an exciting period of consolidation and development.

You will work closely with the CEO and Trustees, overseeing operations, finance, people, and systems across our six community projects, helping ensure strong governance, sustainability, and impact.

We’re looking for someone with:
• Senior leadership experience in the charity or non-profit sector
• Strong operational and financial management skills
• Experience leading teams and multiple projects
• A collaborative, values-driven leadership style

This role has a Genuine Occupational Requirement for the post holder to be a practising Christian, in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

How to apply:
Click here to download the Applicant Information Pack which also includes details of how to apply or contact us for further information.