Director of services and influencing jobs

About the DEC

The DEC is made up of 15 member charities who are experts in humanitarian aid and specialise in different areas of disaster response. They come together to speak in one voice and make fundraising more efficient when we launch an appeal. Our members fund our running costs, and we give them back the money we raise in our appeals to carry out their vital work.

About the Role

You will hold an integral role at the DEC for accurately and efficiently managing DEC’s accounting function, ensuring compliance with charity and donor regulations. You will oversee budgeting, grant management, and donor reporting with transparency and accuracy. You will provide financial insights to support cross organisational projects and program delivery and hold a key role in developing and implementing financial strategies that align with our vision and strategic planning.

About You

You will be a confident communicator, who can engage with diverse internal & external stakeholders, including funders and partners, creating a collaborative approach to meet varying commitments. You must be ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualified (or equivalent) with senior finance leadership experience in the non-profit or NGO sector and demonstrate strong understanding of charity accounting standards and donor compliance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Processes

• Ensure accurate income/expenditure recording, bank reconciliations, and daily donation processing.
• Manage monthly accounting routines, prepare management accounts, and lead budget/forecast reviews.
• Coordinate annual and strategic budgeting, financial reporting, and analysis.
• Oversee income reconciliation across multiple streams and liaise with fundraising teams.
• Review and process drawdown payments to member agencies.
• Maintain and update accounting systems and support procurement processes.

Financial Controls

• Lead annual accounts preparation and audits; ensure regulatory compliance.
• Manage pension schedules and benefits compliance.
• Ensure tax compliance (VAT, Corporation Tax, Employment Taxes).
• Audit gift aid claims and maintain robust financial control environment.
• Update financial policies, procedures, and systems, support due diligence standards.

Financial Analysis & Reporting

• Oversee appeal finances, income tracking, and fund allocation.
• Coordinate governance processes (e.g., Indicator of Capacity) with member agencies.
• Monitor legacy income and liaise with fundraising/legal teams.
• Deliver annual report and accounts; produce reports for executive team and committees.

Leadership & Team Management

• Deputise for the Director of Finance and Resources.
• Prepare papers for finance committees and membership groups.
• Oversee finance team members and provide leadership support.

The DEC is an equal opportunities employer and provides opportunities to learn and grow in an inclusive, supportive, and productive environment. We encourage applications from anyone who can meet the criteria, regardless of gender, race, age, disability, sexuality, or religion.

What We Offer

• Flexible working hours (outside of appeal periods)
• Hybrid working model (includes mandatory office days during appeals)
• 25 days annual leave, increasing with service
• Healthcare Cash Plan (value ~£1,660/year)
• Pension contribution (3%, rising to 8% post-probation)
• Wellbeing and mental health support
• Discounted access for: Gym clubs, Retailers, Theatre tickets.
• Season travel ticket and hardship loans (post-probation)
• Cycle to Work and Car schemes (salary sacrifice)

Team Manager – Safer Renting

Salary: £38,000 per annum
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Location:  London SE17 / Hybrid working

Are you passionate about housing justice and protecting renters’ rights? Join Cambridge House as a Team Manager in our Safer Renting Team and make a real difference in the lives of private renters.

As part of our dynamic team, you will:

• Lead and inspire a team of tenancy rights caseworkers, ensuring high-quality advice and casework services.
• Support and develop your team, managing performance and well-being to help them thrive.
• Deliver expert tenancy rights advice and advocacy.
• Shape the future of our service, contributing to research, campaigns, and service development initiatives.

We’re looking for someone with strong leadership skills, a commitment to social justice, and experience in housing advice or casework. If you’re ready to empower renters and drive positive change, we’d love to hear from you.

Why join us?

• Competitive salary of £38,000 per annum
• Permanent, full-time role with opportunities for growth
• Be part of a mission-driven organisation making a tangible impact
• Hybrid and Flexible working arrangements
• Join an organisation with a diverse and incredible group of people providing pioneering and high-quality services.

To apply please download the recruitment pack. .Completed applications  should be emailed to us and must include your CV ( which should include 2 reference contacts)  and a supporting statement outlining your interest and suitabilty for the role . You will also be asked to complete and return our Diversity monitoring form and Criminal Records Declaration form, both of which can be found on our recruitment page. The sucessful applicant will need to undergo a  DBS check (enhanced) .   Interviews will be held on Saturday 14th February 2026.

This is an exciting role leading our committed policy team leading the fight to end child poverty in the UK. The development and implementation of a UK-wide cross-government child poverty strategy means this is a great time to join CPAG as we look to influence policy makers to adopt our evidence-based policy solutions to child poverty.

We are looking for someone to take a lead role in developing evidence-based policy positions to support CPAG’s influencing and campaigns work. You will have knowledge of political processes and how external organisations can effect change. You will have a track record of producing high quality research and analysis, including policy briefings, on social policy issues. You will have experience of managing a small team and working collaboratively to identify policy issues and develop solutions with colleagues across the organisation, as well as externally.

The postholder will be working in a fast moving, high profile and complex policy environment and will need to balance short term priorities with long term objectives. Current priorities include influencing the implementation of the forthcoming child poverty strategy, gathering and sharing analysis and expertise with the DWP as part of their review of universal credit, and monitoring the development of forthcoming changes to disability benefits.

We welcome applications from individuals with the skills and experience outlined and we can be flexible about working arrangements. We operate a hybrid working system and would be happy to discuss any flexibilities required. CPAG is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion which you can read more about in the job pack.

We welcome applications on a secondment basis.

For more information about this post and to apply download the Head of Policy job pack.

If you have questions or need specific arrangements or reasonable adjustments to take part in the selection process, please contact us.

Closing date for applications: Wednesday 14th January 2026 (midnight)

Interviews will take place: w/c 19th January 2026

The Director of Communications is an exciting new leadership role with ambitious charity that is working to tackle the challenge of physical inactivity and inequalities in access to options to be active. You will be contributing to improving the health outcomes and lives of the people of Lincolnshire.

Working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team, this role will lead our strategic communications approach - shaping powerful narratives that articulate impact, influence system-level change and champion the role of physical activity in tackling inequalities across Lincolnshire.

The role has the following core purpose:

• Set and lead the organisation’s strategic communications approach, ensuring audiences are clearly defined, understood, and engaged.
• Shape and govern the organisation and sector narrative, using communications to articulate impact and create advocacy for inclusive systemic change around physical activity.
• Develop and oversee system-wide communications strategies, fostering collaboration and change at scale through cross-sector partnerships.
• Lead strategic stakeholder stewardship, building and maintaining long-term relationships that influence system-level change and galvanise system partners around a shared narrative.
• Drive monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) for communications, using data and insights to demonstrate impact and inform future direction.
• Provide inclusive leadership, inspiring and developing the communications team, being a senior leader in the organisation, embedding a values-driven, learning culture.

The role will enhance the positioning of the organisation and the wider impact of physical activity, through clear and compelling messages and storytelling.

You will need an exceptional ability to translate complex insight into clear strategic messaging, identify opportunities for influence, and create system-wide approaches to communications that drive meaningful change. You will be proactive, innovative and able to respond quickly and appropriately in a shifting environment.

You will bring extensive experience in senior level stakeholder engagement and stewardship, nurturing and developing relationships that enable Active Lincolnshire to further influence opportunities to shift the system and make a difference in tackling the inequalities that exist.

You will have the ability to influence and advocate. Using your excellent communication skills, combined with insight you will create deep and meaningful narratives championing the physical activity sector, the benefits of being active and the contribution it makes to wider community and economic opportunities and to promote the options to be active in the county.

An outcome focused approach is key, ensuring there are robust measures in place to understand and evaluate the impact of our work.

Reward Package:

• Circa. £50,000 per annum depending on experience
• 25 days annual leave, plus all bank holidays and 3 days during the Christmas week (Total c.36 days per annum).
• ‘Celebration day’; additional day for an occasion / birthday / event (subject to annual review)
• Westfield Health private healthcare
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible working approach
• Time to be active in the working week
• Team away days
• Personal development and training opportunities
• Time in the working week to volunteer
• Employer contribution pension scheme
• Employee wellbeing policy
• Contribution to making a difference to the lives of people in Lincolnshire

Deadline for applications is Sunday 18 January 2026
Interviews will be held at the Active Lincolnshire office in Lincoln the week commencing Monday 26 January.

Country Director – Scotland

We are seeking an experienced and credible senior leader to provide strategic direction and operational leadership for a national fostering charity’s work in Scotland.

Position: Country Director – Scotland
Salary: £53,836 to £59,012 per annum
Location: Glasgow, with hybrid and home based working considered
Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing date: Sunday 25 January 2026

About the role

This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for leading and delivering the organisation’s vision, strategy and impact across Scotland. As a member of the Leadership Team, you will provide strategic oversight, manage people and budgets, and act as a key external representative with government, regulators and sector partners.

Key responsibilities include:

Providing overall leadership and management of the organisation’s work in Scotland
Developing and delivering Scotland specific strategies aligned to UK wide objectives
Leading, managing and supporting staff, volunteers and associates
Building and maintaining strong relationships with national and local government, regulators, fostering services and members
Acting as a spokesperson and senior representative in Scotland
Overseeing the design, delivery and evaluation of impactful programmes for foster carers and children
Driving robust monitoring, impact measurement and reporting
Securing funding through grants, tenders and partnerships
Holding and managing budgets in line with organisational policies
Identifying opportunities for innovation, collaboration and sector improvement
Growing individual and corporate membership across Scotland
Acting as safeguarding lead for the country and ensuring compliance with safeguarding policies

About you

You will be an experienced senior leader with strong credibility across children’s social care and fostering, comfortable operating at strategic and operational levels.

You will bring:

Senior leadership and management experience within children’s social care or a closely related field
In depth knowledge of foster care practice and policy across the UK
Experience of working with statutory local authority services and senior stakeholders
Proven ability to lead teams, manage change and deliver strategic plans
Experience of managing budgets and securing funding
Strong relationship building, influencing and communication skills
Sound safeguarding knowledge and practice
Excellent organisational and IT skills, including confidence using Microsoft Teams and Office 365
A clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and to the organisation’s mission and values

Desirable experience includes a social work qualification, experience in the voluntary or independent sector, working across a national remit, or lived experience of foster care.

About the organisation

The organisation is the leading fostering charity in the UK, working to improve outcomes for children and young people through support, advocacy, programmes and membership services for foster carers and fostering services. It operates across all UK nations, working closely with governments, regulators and partners to influence policy and practice.

Other roles you may have experience of could include; Director of Children’s Services, Head of Fostering, Assistant Director Social Care, Regional Director, Service Director, Programme Director, Policy Director, Operations Director, Strategic Lead Children’s Services, Senior Social Work Manager, National Manager.

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

Director of Retail

When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed.

About the Role

We are seeking an outstanding Director of Retail to lead one of Sense’s most significant income-generating operations. This is a critical executive leadership role, responsible for the strategic direction, performance, and future resilience of 108 charity shops, employing over 300 staff and generating £15m annual turnover.

Reporting directly to the Chief Finance & Commercial Officer, you will lead a national retail team and play a pivotal role in ensuring Sense’s long-term financial sustainability. You will drive innovation, commercial excellence, and operational effectiveness - building a modern, resilient retail model that supports Sense’s mission and responds to a fast-changing retail landscape.

This is a hybrid role, working between home and our site in Crayford. There will also be regular travel to our charity shops across the UK.

Key Objectives

• Develop and deliver a national retail strategy that drives sustainable income growth across physical shops and e-commerce.
• Lead digital and operational innovation to improve efficiency, enhance customer experience, and maximise profitability.
• Build strong strategic partnerships to extend reach, visibility, and income.
• Champion sector-leading retail practice, ensuring Sense remains competitive, agile, and future-focused.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide inspirational leadership to a high-performing national retail team of staff and volunteers, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Drive retail performance using data-led insights to identify opportunities, manage risk, and deliver results.
• Strengthen and diversify income streams, including expanding and optimising e-commerce.
• Lead financial planning and performance management, ensuring delivery of income targets and strong return on investment.
• Optimise the retail property portfolio to ensure value for money, profitability, and estate sustainability.
• Lead scenario planning and build operational resilience to respond effectively to market changes.
• Ensure robust governance, compliance, and risk management across all retail operations.
• Strengthen community engagement and deliver a consistent, high-quality customer experience across all retail locations.
• Represent Sense Retail externally, building influence with sector bodies, partners, and stakeholders.
• Embed sustainability and social responsibility into retail practices, supporting Sense’s commitment to addressing the climate crisis.

About You

You will be a strategic, values-driven retail leader with the credibility and experience to operate at executive level.

You will bring:

• Proven success in a senior retail leadership role within a large multi-site charity, public sector body, or comparable organisation.
• A strong track record of driving income growth, innovation, and transformation.
• Experience leading large, geographically dispersed teams through change.
• Deep knowledge of charity retail governance, regulation, and best practice.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience managing significant budgets and using performance analytics to inform decisions.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, including experience presenting to executive teams and boards.
• A clear commitment to equity, inclusion, and the rights of disabled people.
• Resilience, adaptability, and the ability to lead calmly and confidently in a complex environment.

To apply

Please use the link below to complete your application. Managers will use your application to shortlist candidates for interview; in relation to the Personal Specification. Therefore, it is very important you complete this section thoroughly.  We would recommend that you read the job description and person specification before applying.

Please note to avoid disappointment, we advise you to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close posts at any time.

No agency submissions please: any submissions without prior authorisation from the Sense Recruitment Team will be treated as our own and as such no fee will be payable.

Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of employment, where appropriate, are subject to a DBS check; level dependent on the nature of the role.

For this role we particularly welcome applications from candidates from underrepresented ethnic minority backgrounds and candidates with disabilities. Sense is committed to equality of opportunity, and to promoting and celebrating the diversity of staff, volunteers and the people we work with. Everyone's contribution is valued and we ensure they're given the opportunity to realise their potential. We welcome applications from talented people from all sections of the community who share our values and belief that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. 

Lead quality and innovation in adoption – and make a lasting impact.

Position: Adoption Quality and Development Lead

Location: Based in Reading with hybrid working arrangements

Contract: Permanent role. Full time (37 hours per week) or part-time (4 days per week may be considered).

Salary range: Starting Salary Range from £49934 to £58256

About the role:

This is an exciting opportunity to join our team in a newly created position which is a reflection of our dedication to ensure the highest standards of quality and continuous improvement across our adoption services.

The Adoption Quality and Development Lead plays a key role in supporting the delivery of high-quality adoption and adoption support services. The post holder will lead on quality assurance activities, policy development, complaints investigations, and specific projects, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and contributing to continuous improvement. They will be one of PACT’s agency decision makers. They will also manage projects such as the birth relatives project and support digital and training initiatives. The role requires collaboration across teams, liaison with external agencies, and occasional cover for Team Managers.

About you:

We are looking for a qualified and registered social worker with substantial post-qualification experience in adoption and children’s services, including quality assurance and inspection preparation. You will have excellent knowledge of adoption legislation and standards, strong analytical and organisational skills, and the ability to influence and advise at all levels.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about driving quality and innovation in adoption services. You will have access to learning and professional development opportunities and the chance to make a real difference to the lives of children and families.

We realise that this may be a role that is unique to PACT. Other relevant roles you may have experience of could include: Team Manager; Adoption Team Manager; Adoption Practice Manager; Practice Manager; Adoption Service Manager; Service Manager; Quality Assurance Manager; Social Work Team Lead; Social Work Team Manager etc

About PACT:

PACT is a long-standing, established charity and has been building and strengthening families since 1911. We have a long history of providing adoption services and specialist adoption support for life. As an independent adoption charity, PACT has been rated outstanding by Ofsted three times in a row in 2014, 2017 and 2023.

PACT has a stable and committed workforce, with a passion to support families and a desire to deliver the highest quality services. Last year, PACT found loving and permanent homes for 84 children.

For further information, contact email and details on how to apply, please visit our website.

Closing date: Friday 23rd January 2026 (midday)
Interviews are planned for: Monday 9th February 2026

We look forward to hearing from you. Early application is encouraged. We will review applications received throughout the advertising period and may close the vacancy or interview earlier than stated.

Please do not submit your CV; only completed application forms will be accepted. No agencies please.

PACT is a supportive and respectful place where people are passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of women, children and families from many different backgrounds. We continuously look to progress the ways in which we create families and bring people together and encourage applications from people across all communities. We are committed to ensuring that our people and our services reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and applications from people from under-represented groups are particularly welcomed.

PACT is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. Anyone joining our team is subject to PACT’s Safer Recruitment pre-appointment enquiries. These include the provision of documentation of the right to work in the UK, Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check, overseas police check where applicable and references covering a minimum 5-year period. All opportunities are based in the UK

The Mental Health Foundation is recruiting for a Head of Campaigns & Media to lead the development of a new team within our Policy & Influencing Directorate.

Deadline: 9am on Monday 2nd February
Location: London OR Glasgow
Salary: Starting salary £52,166 rising to £60,861, plus London weighting of £4,000 where applicable
Hours: Full-time (32 hours per week) [part-time considered]
Contract type: This is a permanent role

This exciting role has been created to develop a new campaigns function at the Mental Health Foundation, incorporating our existing media team and working closely with policy, research and lived experience colleagues across the UK, with the aim of driving support for policy change.

What does the role involve?

• Developing a campaigns strategy for MHF and deliver its execution.
• Manage the campaigns and media team, commission engaging content, oversee campaign budgets, and collaborate with stakeholders to create a better policy environment for good mental health.
• Contribute to the leadership of the Mental Health Foundation and its Policy and Influencing Directorate.

What skills, knowledge and experience are we looking for?​

• Experience of developing and implementing campaign strategies to support policy change in the charity sector.
• Comprehensive understanding of communication disciplines (e.g. digital marketing, media relations, content creation) and how they integrate to achieve campaign objectives.
• Understanding of mental health policy, prevention and public health.

Safeguarding is Everyone’s business – Mental Health Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all its beneficiaries, those who surround them, its staff, volunteers, and anyone else who comes into contact with its services and expects all trustees, staff, and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate vetting procedures (proof of eligibility to work in the UK, proof of residency and satisfactory employment screening, including a Disclosure check and two most recent references) along with 3-year renewals of Disclosure checks. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this post, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the UK.

How to apply

If you think your skills match and you’d like to be part of a dynamic and growing organisation, please complete and submit your application via our website. Please ensure you attach an up-to-date CV and statement of suitability answering all points of the person specification. Applications will close at 9am on Monday 2nd February and we are unable to accept late applications. Interviews are planned for Monday 9th & Wednesday 11th February.

We believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. Diversity and inclusion is a strategic priority for us as an employer and mental health charity, and we are proud to be signatories of the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter and the Disability Confident Committed Scheme. Applications from under-represented sections of the community are actively encouraged.

If you have a disability, require any additional support or have any questions regarding the role, please contact us. We make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during employment. Disabled candidates who meet all the essential person specification criteria will be offered an interview. Therefore, please do ensure you tick the relevant box on the application form and clearly indicate in your application/covering letter if you consider yourself to meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 / Disability Discrimination Act 1995.

We are currently operating mostly digital recruitment (including interviews via video conferencing). We have moved to a hybrid working model of a minimum of 2 days per week in the office and the rest working from home.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Director of Finance and IT
London (Camden) | Hybrid working
Salary £90,000
Full time (37.5 hours) or 4 days per week considered

Thomson Foundation is an independent, globally respected organisation with over 60 years’ experience supporting free, ethical and trusted journalism around the world. At a time when reliable information has never mattered more, Thomson’s work is both impactful and deeply values-driven.

They are now seeking a Director of Finance and IT to join the senior leadership team at an exciting point in the organisation’s evolution.

This is a rare opportunity for a senior finance leader who enjoys combining strategic leadership while also being able to provide hands on support. You will work closely with the CEO, Board and senior colleagues to shape future strategy, while also getting into the detail to understand how things work today and where they can be improved tomorrow.

You will thrive in this role if you enjoy making your mark: strengthening systems, improving automation, streamlining processes and building robust, proportionate controls that suit a small, international organisation. This is not a role where you sit at arm’s length from the detail – you will be curious, practical and comfortable rolling up your sleeves, whether that’s reviewing processes, posting journals, improving reporting or driving smarter use of technology.

Alongside financial leadership, you will oversee IT, risk, compliance and governance across the Thomson Group, working with outsourced providers and internal colleagues to ensure systems are secure, efficient and fit for purpose. You will play a key role in delivering the Finance and Technology Transformation Plan, helping the organisation operate more effectively and sustainably as it continues to grow and adapt.

Thomson has a small, welcoming team and a collaborative, non-hierarchical culture. You will be joining an organisation where people are trusted, ideas are welcomed and impact really matters. The role is based in Camden, with hybrid working two days per week in the office.

This role will suit someone who is:
• equally comfortable thinking strategically and working hands on
• motivated by improving systems, automation and ways of working
• curious, detail-oriented and happy to implement change
• values-led and excited by working in a mission-driven, international charity

If you are looking for a senior leadership role where you can genuinely influence, improve and help shape the future of a highly respected organisation, this is an outstanding opportunity.

How to Apply

For more information, please contact Rosemary Pini at Allen Lane who is supporting on this role and happy to answer any questions.

Please apply by sending CV and supporting statement before 1st February

Hoxton Health helps hundreds of local people to manage long term conditions and stay mobile and independent as they age.  We are seeking a new director for our calm and friendly complementary therapy clinic based in St Leonards community hospital.

About Us
Hoxton Health is a well-valued local charity, established over 30 years ago, providing low-cost complementary therapy treatments for older people and those with long term conditions. We fundraise and build partnerships to subsidise treatments, offering lower costs to older patients. Based in St Leonard’s Hospital in Hackney, our friendly team consists of independent practitioners delivering therapies through the week, two other part-time office staff, and a team of volunteers who run the reception.

What will you be doing?
The Centre Director is responsible for the management of all aspects of the organisation's operations and development – internally and externally.
This includes:

• Governance and strategy, including support for Trustee Board
• Oversee smooth running of the clinic
• Finance and fundraising
• Staff management
• Monitoring and evaluation of grant funding
• Development of new projects
• Partnership engagement with other agencies

The clinic is small but busy, with varied days and experiences. We foster a friendly and supportive environment for both our patients and team members. Leadership, guidance and inspiration for this must start with the Centre Director’s work and influence.

Why join us?

• Opportunity to shape the future of a well loved, longstanding service for older people and those with complex needs
• Satisfaction of leading a service with real and valued impact on the health of local people
• Opportunity to join and lead a friendly and welcoming team
• Employer Pension contribution
• Complementary therapy treatments at staff rate

JOB TITLE: Lead Youth Services Worker (Northern Ireland)

RESPONSIBLE TO: Director, Northern Ireland

HOURS OF WORK: 25 hours a week (flexible with some evenings)

LOCATION: Office based, with travel across Northern Ireland.

DURATION: Fixed Term – 5 Years 

SALARY / GRADE: Grade 5 (£30,738 - £33,921 FTE)

KEY WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

•Adopted Young People in Northern Ireland

•  Director Northern Ireland & Northern Ireland staff

•  Wider AUK youth staff

 •Representative staff from educational establishments.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

To develop, implement and evaluate the Banter Project youth service in partnership with adopted young people in Northern Ireland.  These young people range in age from 14-25 years and live throughout Northern Ireland.  The role will primarily work with the project participants, but has additional relationships with community organisations, educational establishments and employers to ensure that all project goals and outcomes are efficiently and effectively met.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• To lead the development and delivery of all elements of the Banter Project adopted young people’s service within Northern Ireland in a fun, interactive, interesting and an ability appropriate manner.

• To support the project participants to play an active role in the design and implementation of a programme of monthly activities for adopted young people. Sustaining and developing a monthly social hub, supporting the development of basic life-skills, and preparation for opportunities in further education, training, employment.

• To support a Youth Advisory Group (YAG) in its role to enable adopted young people to steer the Banter Project while developing skills which promote independence, personal development, social and life skills, leadership, and community involvement.

• To organise and supervise the work of the Youth Services Support Worker to deliver the Banter Project. 

• To provide opportunities to connect with, and signpost to, relevant services, particularly those who work with care experienced young people.

• To develop and implement robust monitoring and evaluation to review individual goals, track progress and impact, via data and analysis of outcomes to assess effectiveness and areas for improvement.

• To record service activity using the electronic data management systems to collate in preparation for reporting and learning opportunities.

• To gather output and outcome data from the Banter Project service in accordance with the quality assurance systems within AUK. 

• Work with other staff members to deliver a high-quality project for our adopted young people and their adoptive parents.  Work as part of a team to contribute to a positive work environment and shared goals. 

• To attend internal and external training/meetings as appropriate, to remain connected with broader adoption issues, relevant policies, working practices, and network with other youth work providers in Northern Ireland.

• To engage in supervision and professional development.

This is an exciting opportunity to steer Asylum Aid at an important time in its 30-year existence. As Executive Director you will be responsible for delivering on our strategy for impact. You will oversee our work to increase access to expert, trauma-informed legal representation to those in the asylum, trafficking and statelessness systems and lead our policy and strategic legal work to achieve systemic change that contributes towards our vision.

You will line manage the Director of Legal Casework to oversee the provision of supportive and enabling leadership to Asylum Aid caseworkers so that they can continue to deliver high quality expert advice in complex cases, while being supported in their professional development and wellbeing. You will also manage and develop the work of our welfare advice team within the Westminster Advice Services Partnership and beyond, and work collaboratively with colleagues in the sector to build capacity and increase our impact. 

The ideal candidate, who may be legally qualified, will have experience of leadership in the charity/NGO sector and a sound understanding of the asylum, human rights and trafficking processes in the UK and the legal frameworks which govern the protection of refugees, survivors of trafficking and stateless people, and of the role of law in achieving system change.

We are looking for someone who is strategically minded and passionate about providing supportive and inclusive leadership to our expert team. You will be committed to our objectives and to the role which expert legal representation plays in enabling people in need of protection in the UK to obtain it.

As is the nature of this sector, the role may be exposed to a high volume of traumatic and distressing material and, whilst they will be supported by the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and surrounding team, the candidate should also be able to demonstrate knowledge of good self-care principles in an intense work environment and dissemination of those principles to junior members of the team.

How to apply 

The first stage is to complete on our online application form on our website by 10am on Monday 26th January 2026.

The website form will ask you to:

1.Upload a short covering letter. Please tell us why the position appeals to you, and how your relevant skills and experience, including any voluntary experience and lived experience, matches the listed responsibilities and person specification. Please also state in your covering letter when you would be available to start the role.

2.Upload your current CV

3.Complete an online Equal Opportunities monitoring form – completion of this form will help us ensure that our recruitment procedures operate in such a way as to provide genuine equality of opportunity. The questions are entirely optional, and this information will not be available to members of the selection panel.

For an informal conversation about the post before applying, please contact Alison Pickup, the current Executive Director.

Selection Process

We will invite candidates to an initial online interview on Tuesday 10th or Wednesday 11th February, followed by shortlisted candidates attending in-person interviews at our office in Old Street on Tuesday 24th or Wednesday 25th February.

We offer a guaranteed initial interview for refugees, stateless people and others with lived experience of forced migration, provided that they provide some evidence of relevant experience or skills in relation to the essential criteria.

We regret that we can only respond to applicants who make it to the interview stage.

Eligibility

Please note that the successful candidate must have the right to work in the UK (as a small charity we do not have the capacity to sponsor work visas).

Successful candidates will also be subject to a basic DBS check. If appointed, you will also be required to give your consent to the charity to receive regular updates on your criminal records status throughout your employment and to disclose any relevant convictions incurred during your time with us.

Adjustments

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. If you require a different format of the application form, such as large print or Word format, or if you would like to discuss any specific requirements, please get in touch with us.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Our commitment to principles of equity, diversity and inclusion is an integral part of our approach to our clients, our volunteers and our staff, and we are an equal opportunities and Living Wage employer.

We are committed to attracting and recruiting diverse candidates because we are keen to make sure that our staff, trustees, volunteers and ambassadors reflect the communities we serve and the wider community we work in.

We genuinely welcome and encourage applications from candidates from a range of backgrounds, especially people of colour, people with disabilities, people from low socio-economic backgrounds, refugees, stateless people and others with lived experience of forced migration or trauma and of the housing and welfare system, who are under-represented in our organisation.

We recognise and value the role of lived experience in meeting the needs of our clients and acknowledge the under-representation of people with lived experience of forced migration and statelessness in the advice sector. We value experience gained overseas as well as in the UK.

We are also proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector.

If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network and access other information and resources which may help in preparing your job application.

Please complete the form on their website to request support and they will confirm if they can match you with a mentor to support your application.

Do you want to work with a leading advocacy charity organisation supporting those in need?   

Do you have experience of successful delivery of safeguarding strategies and initiatives?  

Are you keen to make a difference to people who want to be heard through a profound commitment to safeguarding, protection and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults? 

Then come and join us here at VoiceAbility.  

We have an exciting opportunity for a Designated Safeguarding Lead to join our team to Act as the expert organisational designated safeguarding lead (DSL) for all work 

covering children, young people (CYP) and adults in equal measure. Your role will be homebased but may require you to travel to locations such as hospitals and care homes nationally to meet with stakeholders; therefore, a suitable home internet connection is essential.

About us  

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.  

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.  

About you 

You will have at least 2 years’ experience of working as a Designated Safeguarding Lead with line management responsibility, developing, implementing and evaluating of CYP and Adult safeguarding policies, procedures, and training programmes, reflecting current legislation and best practices.You will also have demonstrable experience in leading, managing, influencing diverse teams on safeguarding, focusing on developing a positive culture and promoting continuous professional development. 

You should have experience in managing complex safeguarding cases, including conducting risk assessments, deciding on immediate actions, and coordinating with external agencies and key stakeholders. 

How will you make a difference? 

You will be called upon internally and/or by external bodies as a source of organisational expert knowledge. 

You will provide leadership and accountability for the advancement of safeguarding best 

practices. 

You will work resourcefully and collaboratively across agencies and adapt child protection systems to address risks in diverse social environments as part of a contextual safeguarding approach, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of young people, vulnerable groups and adults alike.

Benefits  

28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time colleagues) rising to 30 days upon 5 years’ service  

5% employer pension & minimum 3% employee contribution  

Salary sacrifices pension scheme  

Separate Life Assurance Cover (equivalent of two times your annual salary)  

Staff discount scheme including retail discounts, entertainment, holidays, gym membership etc  

24/7 Employee Assistance programme  

Access to remote counselling service  

Paid Disability Leave  

Paid compassionate Leave  

Home Working Allowance   

Support with continuous professional development  

Access to Clifton Strengths Coaching for development   

Personal Development Plans  

How are staff supported to work remotely?  

VoiceAbility has a small number of offices. Employees including Team Leaders are homebased for Administration and meetings will be held online as well as in person in the relevant community.  

When you need to travel for work, expenses will be paid (mileage or public transport costs).   

VoiceAbility offers the usual regular manager one to ones, Staff forums and communities of practice depending on role. Team meetings with a mix of virtual and in person approach.  

Equality and Diversity 

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential. 

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. 

Purpose of the role

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure BDC Mind delivers high-quality mental health services, achieves organisational sustainability, and fosters a culture aligned to the charity’s values.

The CEO works closely with the Board to set strategic direction, leads the Executive Leadership Team, ensures effective governance and financial stewardship, and represents BDC Mind across local, regional, and national forums.

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Key Responsibilities

Strategic and Courageous Leadership

1. Lead the development and implementation of the organisational strategy.

2. Build trust and confidence with the Board, ELT, staff, and external partners.

3. Provide transparent and values-driven leadership aligned to BDC Mind’s mission.

4. Build strong, productive relationships with commissioners, funders, strategic and corporate partners.

5. Engage in media engagement, advocacy, and public speaking responsibilities.

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Innovation, Growth & Sector Influence

6. Foster a culture of innovation, learning, and continuous improvement.

7. Develop new or enhanced service models, including pilots and strategic partnerships within Bradford and Craven and across West Yorkshire.

8. Position BDC Mind as a leading service provider for current and emerging mental health needs through identifying service gaps and opportunities.

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Delivering High-Impact Services

9. Ensure services deliver measurable, high-quality outcomes for people and communities.

10. Embed Service Member voices at the heart of Service developments.

11. Oversee service performance, quality assurance, and impact reporting.

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Building an Inclusive and Diverse Culture in line with our Antiracism Commitments

12. Drive the delivery of our commitments to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI), Anti-Racism and the Patient Care Race Equality Framework (PCREF)

13. Promote a culture of inclusion, psychological safety, and respect across the organisation.

14. Strengthen workforce diversity and embed anti-discriminatory practice.

15. Ensure services are accessible, inclusive and culturally competent.

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Inspiring, Supportive and Accountable Leadership

16. Provide clear, motivating leadership to the ELT and wider workforce.

17. Promote staff wellbeing, professional development, and collaborative working.

18. Ensure effective line management, appraisals, and succession planning across ELT.

19. Communicate consistently, openly, and effectively with all members of the workforce, Maintaining visibility and accessibility across teams and services.

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Governance, Finance, Safeguarding & Risk

20. Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations.

21. Maintain robust safeguarding practices for children and adults at risk.

22. Oversee robust health and safety procedures and risk assessments.

23. Ensure strong governance, effective decision-making, and accountability across the organisation.

24. Maintain robust organisational risk management processes.

25. Support the Board’s effectiveness through high-quality reporting and engagement.

26. Ensure strong financial controls, financial planning, management, and statutory compliance.

27. Drive income generation and diversification of funding streams for long-term financial sustainability.

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General Duties

28. Foster and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, facilitating effective communication channels.

29. Lead the team ensuring all key people processes are engaged with meaningfully to enable strong performance and transparent communication, addressing issues proactively and sensitively should they arise and in alignment with our aims, policies, core values and Employee Handbook.

30. Fully participating in all relevant training to develop and maintain your performance in the role.

31. Demonstrating an ongoing commitment to our values: Caring Always, Working Together, Supporting Everyone, Enabling All and Continually Improving.

32. Performing other duties as reasonably required within the role.

It is BDC Mind’s policy to make reasonable adjustments to enable those with disabilities to undertake the above. We are committed to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and improving the quality of life for people with mental health challenges. We value diversity, inclusion, and the importance of lived experience as a source of knowledge and expertise. Our values are:

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Person specification

Bradford District and Craven Mind is committed to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and improving the quality of life for people with mental health challenges. We value diversity, inclusion and lived experiences when recruiting our staff and volunteers. 

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Qualifications & Knowledge

Essential

· Senior leadership experience within one or more of health, social care, charity, or related sectors.

· Strong understanding of mental health services and challenges faced by service users.

· Knowledge of charity governance, safeguarding, quality standards and regulation.

· Good financial literacy and experience overseeing budgets and financial strategy.

· Strong understanding of EDI principles and inclusive leadership.

· Engaging with a Board of Trustees.

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Desirable

· Relevant degree or professional qualification (e.g., management, social care, health).

· Knowledge of commissioning, procurement, and tendering processes.

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Leadership Skills & Behaviours

Essential

· Courageous, transparent, values-driven leadership approach.

· Ability to inspire, motivate and develop high-performing teams.

· Strategic thinker capable of turning vision into deliverable plans.

· Skilled communicator and relationship-builder internally and externally.

· Effective decision-maker, particularly in complex and challenging situations.

· Commitment to equity inclusion, diversity, and psychologically safe working environments.

· Collaborative and partnership-oriented working style.

· Person-centred leadership, able to exercise discretion.

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Experience

Essential

· Senior paid role with a charity of turnover of more than £3.5 million.

· Demonstrable experience in strategic planning, organisational development, and change management.

· Delivering organisational strategies and measurable outcomes.

· Managing growth, innovation or service transformation.

· Strong financial acumen including overseeing financial sustainability, compliance, budget management and income generation.

· Excellent communication, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement skills including Representing organisations publicly and influencing stakeholders.

· Experience of working within a wider system of charities and infrastructure.

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Desirable

· Experience of working within a federated or charity network.

· Leadership experience within mental health or wellbeing services.

· Demonstrable commitment to Anti-Racism.

· Evidence of public policy influence.

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Personal Attributes

· A strong passion for the mission of BDC Mind and alignment with our values, including inclusion for all

· Resilience and the confidence to challenge constructively.

· Ability to foster trust, credibility and positive relationships.

· Passion for improving mental health outcomes across communities.

· Commitment to learning, improvement and reflective practice.

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Additional Information

· The CEO may be required to work flexibly, including occasional evenings or weekends.

· Appointment is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

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