Director of support services jobs
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Salary: £45,000 to £50,000 per annum
Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week.
Reports to: Programme Director
Direct reports: None
Location: Harlow, Essex. Easily commutable from London Liverpool Street or Tottenham Hale Station. We offer a free minibus service to/from Harlow Town Train Station as well as free parking and EV charging on site.
Extra Information: Open to conversation on hybrid, flexible and compressed working arrangements.
About the role:
We’re building a Transport Solutions Team that works flexibly across all the tools in our delivery kit – from grants and innovation pilots to research, partnerships, and commercial interventions. Our growing portfolio includes flagship projects tackling challenges such as inclusive EV charging infrastructure, complex community transport needs, and large-scale research like the National Centre for Accessible Transport.
We are now recruiting for three Transport Solutions Managers, one permanent position and two 24 month fixed-term contracts. These roles will lead the design and delivery of high-impact work focused primarily on accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging – a key priority for the Foundation. This is a pivotal role that combines technical understanding, programme delivery, and stakeholder leadership, and is designed to work flexibly across our matrix structure.
While your core focus will be on EV charging, you also may be expected to lead and/or contribute to other transport projects across the transport themes.
This is an opportunity to join a collaborative, purpose-led team driving change in the transport system for disabled people, and to work on some of the most complex and impactful projects in the sector.
What you will be doing:
- Lead the design and delivery of accessible EV charging initiatives, working closely with Programme Directors and partners across government, industry and the charity sector.
- Scope, commission and manage projects related to EV charging – such as pilots, commercial partnerships, research studies or funding opportunities – ensuring alignment to strategic priorities.
- Bring technical and market understanding of EV charging (e.g. standards, installation, interoperability, user experience, accessibility requirements) to shape the Foundation’s approach in this space.
- Manage end-to-end delivery of specific initiatives, including planning, budgeting, due diligence, contracting, risk management, and governance reporting.
- Use insight, evidence and stakeholder engagement to shape new programmes of work and ensure delivery reflects the needs of disabled people.
- Work flexibly across our matrix team, contributing to projects or funding rounds outside your own portfolio as needed, and supporting colleagues with specialist input or delivery resource.
- Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including OZEV, DfT, BSI, chargepoint operators, local authorities, disability organisations and industry experts.
- Collaborate across the Foundation, including with the Insight & Evaluation, Finance and Communications teams, to ensure high-quality delivery, learning and visibility of our work.
- Bring and apply knowledge in key areas as accessible transport, disability, inclusive innovation, grant making or systems change.
- Support the development and continuous improvement of our delivery models, funding mechanisms and ways of working.
Your experience:
Must haves:
- Experience managing complex projects, ideally in EV charging, transport, or energy sectors.
- Ability to translate technical or policy insight (e.g. standards, user experience, accessibility, or engineering considerations) into practical delivery and funding approaches.
- Experience managing projects or funding opportunities from inception through to delivery, ideally across multiple partners or suppliers.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, with the ability to work effectively across government, industry, and the charity sector.
- Excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to deliver multiple, complex workstreams to deadlines.
- Strong analytical capability, able to interpret data, research and qualitative insight to inform recommendations and decision-making.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce high-quality reports, business cases, and presentations for senior audiences.
- Confident IT literacy, including Microsoft Office (particularly Excel and PowerPoint).
Nice to haves:
- Understanding of EV charging systems, standards (e.g. PAS 1899), and market dynamics.
- Experience working alongside government, local authorities, or industry partners on projects.
- Familiarity with innovation or funding mechanisms such as pilots, challenge funds, co-design, or commissioning frameworks.
- Understanding of wider disability and transport issues, such as the social model of disability and key accessibility barriers.
- Experience supporting or line managing others in a team or project context.
If you’re interested in applying and excited about working with us but are unsure if you have the right skills and experience, we'd still encourage you to apply.
We are building a future where all disabled people have the transport options to make the journeys they choose.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Chief Executive Officer - FoodCycle
Location: Vauxhall, London (flexible working; regular travel to Projects and for meeting with key stakeholders required)
Salary: circa £75,000
Contract: Permanent, full-time (35–37.5 hours per week)
Are you ready to lead FoodCycle through a period of consolidation and sustainable growth, protecting its volunteer-led, guest-centred model while building reliable income streams and scaling proven pilots?
About FoodCycle
FoodCycle is a national charity running volunteer-powered community dining projects that combine rescued surplus food, spare kitchen space and local volunteers to deliver free, hot, sociable three-course meals. Our work sits at the intersection of food-waste reduction, food-poverty relief and loneliness prevention. Nationally scaled but locally delivered, FoodCycle has grown rapidly, enjoys strong volunteer goodwill and is developing promising trading and schools pilots to strengthen sustainability.
As our next CEO you will:
• Shape strategy & impact - co-create and implement a clear 3–5 year strategy and a focused 12-month operational plan with measurable milestones.
• Stabilise leadership & culture - provide visible, warm and practical leadership across Projects; develop the senior team and protect volunteer trust.
• Secure financial sustainability - own the income strategy, diversify revenue across trusts, individual giving, corporate partnerships and trading, and present credible cashflow plans to the board.
• Build commercial & trading capacity - drive Manor House and other trading pilots towards viable, repeatable income models.
• Safeguard quality & risk - ensure robust safeguarding, food-safety and operational thresholds for opening new Projects.
• Raise profile & partnerships - act as FoodCycle’s principal ambassador to corporates, funders, local authorities and policy audiences.
Who you are
• A senior leader with experience stabilising and growing people-facing, delivery-focused organisations.
• Proven at generating income from multiple streams, with commercial fluency to develop simple trading models and convert corporate engagement into lasting partnerships.
• Financially literate - comfortable owning budgets, forecasting and discussing risk with trustees.
• Excellent at people and change management - able to build and motivate small national teams and large volunteer cohorts.
• Data-driven, curious and pragmatic - tests pilots, embeds what works and sets clear go/no-go criteria for scale.
• Values-driven and visible - passionate about food justice, guest dignity and volunteer leadership.
• Right to work in the UK and satisfactory DBS checks required.
Why FoodCycle?
• Lead a nationally recognised, volunteer-led movement tackling food waste, food poverty and social isolation.
• Play a pivotal role growing promising trading and schools pilots to create sustainable income.
• Work with an engaged Chair and committed board, and a small, passionate national team.
• Be part of a friendly, non-hierarchical culture where leaders are visible in Projects.
For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill at via the apply button with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence.
Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 19th January 2026
As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.
Interim CEO
Mental health charity | 3–6 Months | Hertfordshire - Hybrid
Salary: £55,000–£65,000 (pro rata)
I am excited to be working with an established mental health charity at a pivotal moment of change, seeking an experienced Interim CEO to provide steady, credible leadership during a period of transition.
Reporting to the Board, you will stabilise day-to-day operations while delivering a focused organisational review covering governance, safeguarding, culture, skills, and sustainability. This is a hands-on assignment starting early January 2026 requiring clarity, sensitivity, and pace.
Key Focus
Lead and support staff and volunteers, ensuring service continuity
Conduct an organisational and governance review
Deliver a full safeguarding audit
Assess skills and capacity across staff, volunteers, and trustees
Facilitate sensitive conversations and help rebuild trust
Advise on future leadership recruitment
About You
Senior leadership experience in the charity sector
Proven interim or turnaround experience
Strong safeguarding knowledge and audit experience
Excellent board-level communication and reporting skills
Practicalities
Contract: 3–6 months
Hours: Full-time (part-time considered)
Location: Hybrid with regional travel
If you have the above skills and experience and are available from early January 2026, please apply online today, I would love to have a conversation with you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Financial Controller
We are looking for an experienced and solutions-focused Financial Controller to join UKROEd at a pivotal time. This is an exciting opportunity to play a major role in ensuring robust financial management across both UKROEd and The Road Safety Trust, supporting our mission to improve road safety and reduce harm on the UK’s roads.
Position: Financial Controller
Location: Manchester, Hybrid working, with a minimum of two days per week at Head Office
Salary: Circa £70,000 (dependent on experience)
Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: Sunday 11th January 2026
(We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications.)
Interviews: 4th February 2026, in person, Manchester
The Role
As second-in-command to the Chief Finance Officer, the Financial Controller will oversee the collection, consolidation and analysis of financial data across UKROEd and The Road Safety Trust. This is a broad and hands-on leadership role, central to maintaining strong financial governance, ensuring statutory and regulatory compliance, and safeguarding organisational assets.
You will lead the financial control environment, oversee key financial processes including payroll, procurement, budgeting and reporting, and drive continuous improvement in how financial information is produced, interpreted and used. As a trusted partner to senior leaders and trustees, you will support informed decision-making by providing accurate, timely and high-quality financial insights.
Key Responsibilities
· Oversee financial operations, controls and compliance across both organisations
· Produce management accounts, financial reports and statutory returns
· Lead payroll, pensions, procurement and the purchase-to-pay cycle
· Manage assets, liabilities and financial risk registers
· Support budgeting, forecasting and financial strategy delivery
· Liaise with auditors, bankers, insurers and advisers
· Oversee NDORS-related billing and financial processes
· Provide leadership and guidance to the Finance Manager
About You
We are seeking a highly capable finance professional with strong technical expertise, exceptional attention to detail and a proactive approach to improving financial governance. You will bring the confidence to work with senior stakeholders, the experience to manage complex financial operations, and the integrity to uphold the highest standards of financial stewardship.
Essential Experience & Knowledge
- At least 5 years’ experience managing financial operations.
- Hold a ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent qualification.
- Degree in accounting, finance, business, economics or related field.
- Demonstrable experience as a Financial Controller.
- Strong understanding of management accounting principles.
- In-depth knowledge of budgeting, forecasting and financial analysis.
- Strong understanding of tax codes, laws and statutory reporting.
- Experience working with senior stakeholders and writing high-quality reports.
- Proficiency in accounting systems and advanced spreadsheet skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Highly organised, accurate and detail-oriented.
- Willingness to undertake NPPV Level 3 vetting.
Desirable:
- Experience in policing, local authority or charity sector finance.
- Experience using Xero or similar accounting systems.
To Apply
Please submit your CV along with a covering letter detailing how your skills, knowledge and experience meet the requirements of the role.
About UKROEd
UKROEd Ltd is a private, not-for-profit company responsible for the delivery, management and administration of the National Driver Offender Retraining Scheme (NDORS) on behalf of the police service. As the operating company of The Road Safety Trust, UKROEd supports the education of drivers who commit low-level traffic offences and contributes to a safer road network for all.
You may have experience in roles such as: Finance Manager, Financial Controller, Senior Finance Business Partner, Senor Financial Accountant, Head of Financial Accounts, Finance and Operations Manager, Head of Finance, Finance Director, etc….
PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
At TLG, we’re passionate about building an exceptional staff team that’s committed to making a real difference in the lives of struggling children across the UK. We’re always on the lookout for great people to journey with us towards our vision, and we’re excited to offer a unique opportunity for a motivated and passionate individual to join us as Therapeutic Hub Counsellor (School).
Building on the success of TLG Early Intervention Coaching, our new school-based TLG Therapeutic Hubs will bring life-changing support to the growing number of pupils struggling to cope due to emotional, relational, and mental health challenges. Working in partnership with local churches, this pioneering pilot programme not only addresses the underlying issues children are facing, but also offers vital support to parents, carers and school staff.
As the TLG Therapeutic Hub Counsellor, you will deliver specialist trauma-aware care through 1:1 counselling and group interventions for pupils. Working closely with a Family Champion from the partnering church, you will also lead Reflective Care groups for parents/carers and staff, promoting wellbeing and fostering wrap-around care for each young person supported through the hub. High standards of safeguarding and accurate record-keeping will be central to your work, and through regular collaboration with the pilot team, you will help to shape and refine this exciting new initiative.
We are looking for a Level 4 qualified Counsellor or Therapist who thrives in a school setting and is passionate about bringing fullness of life for young people and families, helping them overcome the challenges they face. You will be confident in building strong relationships and working collaboratively to design a weekly programme that meets both client and school needs. Creativity is highly valued, and we welcome applicants with creative specialisms that are particularly effective for engaging young people.
TLG is a Christian charity and, as a team, we want to bring our faith to the work we do; as such, we are recruiting an individual with a strong and vibrant Christian faith. We would welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds to enable us to better reflect the needs of the communities we serve.
Note: Candidates are encouraged to submit applications promptly as applications will be reviewed on application prior to the closing date. We reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date if a suitable applicant applies.
Hours: 2.5 days per week (18.75 hours, term-time only)
Closing Date: Sunday 11th January
Initial Interviews: Various – Online
Final Interviews: To be confirmed – at our National Support Centre in West Yorkshire
For further information, please see the job description attached to this page.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Saferworld is recruiting a Country Manager, Afghanistan to lead our Afghanistan programme and shape the strategic direction of our work in line with Saferworld’s 10-year organisational strategy.
The post-holder will provide strong leadership and be responsible for the strategic steer based in our organisational strategy and rooted in partners’ collective visions for their societies. They will lead on partnership relations, resourcing efforts, providing financial oversight, managing staff, and reporting to donors. They will represent Saferworld in interactions with relevant authorities, donors, and other stakeholders in Afghanistan, South Asia, and globally. The post-holder will engage in cross-organisational information-sharing and lesson-learning on policy and strategy issues, and develop written analysis linking experiences and learning in Afghanistan to global trends and platforms.
This programme operates in a complex context. In this environment, effective leadership requires that the post-holder centres partners voices and views in planning for and managing a range of expected and unexpected risks. The post-holder will contribute to organisation-wide strategic planning, processes and discussions to advance thematic and operational priorities, methodological approaches and organisational development. This will specifically require developing new ways of working to ensure impactful change, linking programmes across different contexts and regions.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This role would suit a professional individual with solid current trade union knowledge, with excellent communication skills, with proven experience of implementing projects to diverse international and multi-cultural environments and fundraising in a global context.
The Head of Union Building will lead a team at head office and work collaboratively with Union Building related staff in our regions to develop and deliver the ITF’s ambitious Union Building programme and its growth path. This includes the development, implementation and monitoring of strategies to ensure that Union Building portfolio and funding grows, and that Union Building projects achieve their agreed objectives and are coherently reported in line with TUSSO standards. The role will also contribute to the strategies required to fulfil the ITF’s overall objectives.
Due to the international aspects of the organisation’s work, a good working knowledge of another language would be an advantage. Proficient in using standard office equipment and other relevant software.
ITF offers a highly competitive defined benefit pension salary scheme, a flexible hybrid working model, enabling staff to work from home as well as the office, as well as the opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art modern office building in central London.
Every day transport workers keep the world moving – connecting millions of people across our cities and countries

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Chief Executive Officer
Salary: £49, 282 - £54,495 per annum
Location: Gorse Hill Studios, Trafford, Manchester (Some remote working will be considered)
Contract Type: Full time, permanent
About Gorse Hill Studios
Gorse Hill Studios is a dynamic and ambitious youth and community arts charity. At the heart of our organisation is a belief that all young people deserve to feel valued, supported and inspired. We work with young people to build confidence, creativity and community connections, ensuring they have the opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive.
We believe that creativity can transform lives, and we are committed to placing young people at the centre of everything we do. Their voices, ideas and experiences help shape our programmes, partnerships and strategic direction.
We are entering an exciting phase of growth and development. Our team currently includes 20 core staff and a wider network of volunteers and creative practitioners, delivering a diverse portfolio of youth arts sessions, community engagement projects, creative wellbeing initiatives and partnership-led activity with local schools and organisations. The CEO will play a pivotal role in leading this portfolio, strengthening our impact, championing youth voice and ensuring young people continue to shape our future direction as we move into the next chapter of our development.
About the Role
As CEO, you will provide strategic, compassionate and visionary leadership, ensuring Gorse Hill Studios delivers its mission to empower and inspire young people. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will hold overall responsibility for the organisation’s performance, culture, operations and long-term sustainability. This role calls for someone who demonstrates strong strategic insight with the ability to influence and inspire others, using emotional intelligence and collaborative leadership to build positive internal and external relationships.
A fundamental part of this role is your commitment to embedding young people’s voice in decision making. You will champion their perspectives, ensuring programme development, strategy and organisational culture reflect the needs and aspirations of the young people we serve.
You will also be an ambassador for the charity, building trusted relationships with young people, partners, funders and the wider community. This role requires a leader who is values led, resilient and passionate about supporting young people through the arts and creative engagement.
Roles and Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Governance
- Lead on the development and delivery of the charity’s long-term strategy, with young people meaningfully involved
- Ensure compliance with all statutory, regulatory and governance requirements, including Charity Commission expectations and safeguarding duties
- Provide clear, timely reporting to the Board
- Support the Board to operate effectively
Financial Management and Income Generation
- Oversee budgeting, financial planning and responsible management of all funds
- Lead a diverse income generation strategy
- Identify sustainable opportunities for organisational growth
Operational Management and Programme Delivery
- Oversee day to day operations and ensure systems are effective
- Ensure programmes are high quality, inclusive and reflective of young people’s needs and feedback
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, or ensure robust safeguarding practices across the organisation
People Leadership and Culture
- Inspire, support and lead a dedicated staff and volunteer team
- Champion a positive, inclusive and collaborative working culture
- Oversee recruitment, wellbeing and performance management
External Relations and Advocacy
- Act as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for Gorse Hill Studios
- Build strong relationships with partners, funders and stakeholders
- Advocate for and with young people locally and nationally
- Represent the charity confidently at events and in the media
Skills and Experience
Essential:
- Senior leadership experience in the charity, youth, arts or wider non-profit sector
- Strong financial management skills
- Proven success in fundraising or income generation
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement
- Knowledge of safeguarding practices in youth settings
- Experience leading teams and developing positive organisational cultures
- Strategic leadership experience
Desirable
- Experience in the youth arts or creative community sector
- Understanding of the Trafford community landscape
Values and Commitment
We are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals who share these values and are passionate about empowering young people.
An enhanced DBS check will be required.
Application Details
To apply, please submit your CV and covering letter.
Closing date: 19 January
Interview date: 23 January at Gorse Hill Studios
Interviews will include a stakeholder panel and a formal interview.
REF-225 658
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Chief Campaigns and Creative Officer (£25,000)
Central London | 32 Hours Per Week | Reports to Executive Director
Why this role exists
The Trans Legal Clinic turns frontline legal work into change people can feel. We need a senior creative lead to set the look, sound and pace of our public work, run audience-led campaigns and make complex issues clear and actionable.
What you will lead
· Creative direction: Own visual identity, tone of voice and message architecture across print, digital and events.
· Campaigns that move people: Plan and deliver campaigns across our pillars: client rights, systems change, fundraising and recruitment. Turn data and casework insights into creative that lands.
· Social media and content: Own the calendar. Ship platform-specific posts, threads, carousels, short video and email. Moderate comments with care for community safety.
· Rapid response: Prepare toolkits and holding lines for breaking stories. Coordinate with legal and policy colleagues.
· Production: Brief, storyboard, shoot or commission. Edit to deadline. Manage freelancers and suppliers. Keep files, rights and releases in order.
· Accessibility and inclusion: Bake accessibility into everything: captions, alt text, readable layouts and plain language.
· Measurement and learning: Set goals, define KPIs, track performance and share honest learnings. Improve what works, stop what does not.
· Internal enablement: Build a tidy brand kit, templates and guidance so the team can self-serve without diluting quality. Train staff and volunteers.
· Workflow: Keep projects moving with clear briefs, timelines and approvals.
You’ll thrive here if you show
· Entrepreneurial drive: you turn strategy into finished creative and campaigns.
· Ownership and follow-through: you run work end to end and land it.
· Bold, informed judgement: you try new formats and back choices with evidence.
· Clear communication: you write clean copy and match tone to audience.
· Inclusive practice: you build accessibility and safety into content as standard.
· Planning under pressure: you manage live moments without losing quality.
· Team-building and collaboration: you lead creatives and volunteers well.
· Constant learning: you test, measure and iterate.
What you will bring
· A strong portfolio showing strategy-led creative across static, motion and copy.
· Confident in canva or similar. Comfortable with short-form video editing and basic motion.
· Platform literacy across Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube. Working knowledge of analytics and paid promotion.
· Clear writing and an ear for tone.
· Calm leadership and useable feedback.
· Sound judgement on reputation, privacy, GDPR and consent.
· Commitment to trans-led practice and the communities we serve.
Helpful extras
- not-for-profit experience
- Familiarity with gender recognition, healthcare advocacy, discrimination, housing and employment
- Basic SEO and email automation.
Practicalities
· Hours: 32 Hours per week
· Location: Central London
· Salary: £25,000.
What We Look For
The Co-founders Mindset
At the Trans Legal Clinic we are building a Trans+ rights revolution; our mission is Trans Liberation. That means access to justice for Trans & Non-binary people everywhere. We deliver work that changes outcomes for people, case by case and system by system. That calls for a particular mindset. We call it the co-founder mindset. Co-founders take the mission personally, set the pace, turn ideas into working services and campaigns, bring others with them, and make change you can point to. Co-founders are entrepreneurial: they spot openings others miss, move decisively, and create momentum. Co-founders build teams, drawing in volunteers who believe in our mission, care deeply about our clients, enjoy working with us, and keep one another going. Co-founders are bold: they are willing to innovate, to be first, and to change the status quo; they check the source, avoid assumptions, solve problems, make firm, collaborative, evidence-based decisions, and take responsibility for results. Co-founders are pioneers. If you want responsibility, pace, and the chance to trailblazer new routes to justice and public impact, this is the place to build your career.
We select candidates based on their performance in 8 areas;
1. Ownership and follow-through
You are a self-starter who owns tasks and takes responsibility without waiting to be asked. You carry your work through to a tangible result. You define the problem, set a course, keep the right people informed, and deliver what you said you would.
2. Bold, informed judgement
You are willing to change accepted practice when the evidence supports it. You check primary sources rather than rely on assumptions, weigh real options and risks, make a clear, evidence-based, collaborative decision, and stand behind it.
3. Entrepreneurial drive
You spot openings other people miss and turn ideas into useful services, processes or campaigns. You move decisively and get others working on the plan alongside you with clear roles and timelines.
4. Planning under pressure
You keep priorities straight when time is tight. You organise people and tasks, set simple checkpoints, communicate early when plans shift and always deliver.
5. Inclusive practice
You strive to make everything you create accessible to others, designing work that is easier for others to take part in, with people who face barriers always in mind. You identify what is getting in the way, make practical changes that remove those barriers, and check the effect with the people involved.
6. Clear communication
You write and speak in plain terms and adjust tone and detail to suit clients, volunteers, partners and the public. You choose the right format for the moment and make it easy for people to act on what you say. You like feedback, don’t get offended and see it as a chance to improve.
7. Team-building and collaboration
You bring people with you and help groups perform well together. You draw in volunteers who believe in the mission and care about our clients, set shared expectations, handle disagreements well, and leave relationships stronger.
8. Constant learning
You improve your own practice and the system around you. You reflect honestly on what worked and what did not, learn quickly, and turn that learning into simple tools or habits that make future work better.
These eight criteria are what we look for. Use them to decide whether this is the right place for you and to shape the examples you share in your application.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Salary: £46,698 (London) / £42,373 (National) per annum
Hours: 35 hrs per week
Contract: Fixed term contract (until March 2027)
Benefits
· 27 days annual leave + statutory holidays + 3 closures days over the Christmas period;
· Flexible working for all staff including working from home / hybrid working, and flexi-time/TOIL scheme;
· Attractive family friendly policies;
· Private healthcare cover;
· Season ticket loans;
· Employee awards, and training and development opportunities.
For more information about our benefits please visit our website.
Office locations: London, Bristol or homeworker
The role will involve spending a substantial amount of time in the East of England (including early starts/late finishes and overnight stays where required) and regular travel nationwide for NHF events and meetings.
Please note, if office based, the successful candidate will be expected to carry out two days in-person working per week on average which will include attendance at your office location.
Flexible working arrangements can be discussed and agreed with the line manager subject to role and business needs.
An exciting opportunity has arisen at the National Housing Federation (NHF) to join our team of External Affairs Managers on a fixed-term basis to cover maternity leave. The NHF is the voice of housing associations in England. We are the trade body to almost 600 housing associations, who have grown from philanthropic roots to provide 2.6 million homes to around 6 million people. You can find further information about the NHF on our website.
Could you be our new External Affairs Manager, working closely with our housing association members across the East of England?
This is a unique and varied role which would appeal to someone with a background in areas such as stakeholder management, policy, public affairs, communications, programme management – or a combination of these areas! For example, you may be looking to step into a role to further develop your leadership and stakeholder engagement skills, whilst still building on your policy or programme management experience and knowledge.
You will operate at the heart of social housing by working with key decision makers across the housing association sector – including managing relationships with chief executives, chairs of boards and executive directors. Strong communication and influencing skills are essential to the role, as well as the confidence to work at the most senior levels.
It is crucial that you can work collegiately to lead key programmes of work across the NHF with colleagues in other teams, for example from our policy, press, events, and public affairs teams. Equally, you will be comfortable working autonomously and shaping your own work programme.
The core of the role involves being responsible for engagement with a whole geographic region of our membership; and working closely on or leading one of the NHF’s key themes of work, which include areas such as supported housing; devolution; developing new homes; decarbonising existing homes; ensuring the building safety agenda is delivered; or representing our rural or smaller housing associations.
The role is wide ranging and in addition to stakeholder management and programme leadership, will include running roundtables between our members and government, chairing sessions at NHF conferences, and presenting political and policy updates to senior teams within housing associations.
You will be part of a team of eight External Affairs Managers sitting within the member services directorate, which is there to ensure that we provide excellent value for money for our housing association members.
Key elements of the role:
· You will build and maintain brilliant relationships with housing associations leaders, using your well-developed communication and advocacy skills to maximum effect.
· You will develop knowledge, insight and understanding of housing associations to shape our policy and influencing work and to create structured programmes of member engagement on critical policy and political issues.
· You will be the contact point for housing associations in your region, ensuring they receive first class customer service on the issues which matter to them. Working closely with NHF members you will facilitate the organisation of regional chief executive or leaders forums and sounding boards.
· In addition to your regional work, you will lead on the strategic planning and delivery of a key NHF policy priority. This will require collaborative working with colleagues from across the organisation and working with members across every region and specialism. You will play a leadership role, creating structured engagement strategies to ensure members are able to influence policy as well as engaging key NHF stakeholders and sharing best practice.
· Your role will be to implement structured member engagement to ensure our policy priorities, positions and influencing work are member-led. This will include working directly with members to inform our policy positions and lead our influencing work.
· You will influence debates at the highest level and you will spot in advance and act strategically to mitigate the risk to our membership. As such, this role requires a high degree of political and organisational acumen and the ability to horizon scan.
· You will work with colleagues in our Commercial and Events teams to maximise commercial opportunities and help shape content at our conferences, as well chairing conference sessions.
· To be the face and voice of the NHF with members, stakeholders and the media.
· To ensure that as an organisation we deliver as a whole team, seamlessly, to members to achieve greatest impact in line with the business strategy.
· To maintain high quality standards and follow NHF policy and process.
The successful candidate:
The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:
· A sound knowledge and understanding of housing associations and issues affecting the wider sector.
· A sound understanding of the political and policy landscape that housing associations operate in.
· Demonstrable knowledge and experience of establishing and maintaining relationships with senior stakeholders, demonstrating excellent customer service and value for money.
· Effective communication skills, in person and in writing, including the ability to credibly and confidently present at meetings and events.
· Ability to listen to and influence senior stakeholders, demonstrating diplomacy, effective communication and negotiation skills.
· Clear leadership skills, able to lead complex and strategic programmes of work effectively, including experience of matrix managing and motivating a team.
· Excellent analytical skills and strategic nous with the ability to summarise complex information effectively to aid decision making.
· A commitment to excellent customer service.
· A positive, energetic and agile approach to work.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
The NHF has published its equality, diversity and inclusion strategy, which was co-created with staff. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and we value the contribution each individual makes to our work.
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and are working to increase the diversity profile of our workforce. We are currently under-represented by ethnic minorities, people with a disability or disabilities and LGBTQ+, and would particularly welcome applications from people in these groups.
Disability confident employer
We are a disability confident employer and if you are a disabled person who meets the skills and experience we consider essential for the role, we will offer you an interview.
Please note: there may be occasions where it is not practicable or appropriate to interview all disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the job. In certain recruitment situations such as high-volume of applications, we may be required to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people.
In these circumstances the NHF will select the disabled candidates who best meet the minimum criteria for the job rather than all of those that meet the minimum criteria, as we would do for non-disabled applicants. This is in line with the Disability Confident guidelines.
We are happy to consider reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process if you have a disability or have a condition that you feel may affect your performance during the recruitment process. Please contact the People team with your request or to arrange a time to discuss in more detail.
Our role profile and job advert can also be requested in large print or in accessible format via this email address.
Completing our Application Form
To apply for this role, please complete our online application form. The application form includes your employment and education history plus you will be asked to answer questions in relation to your knowledge, skills and experience, why you are applying for the role and questions in relation to our values. The application form is anonymous and will not require you to upload a CV or cover letter. This will help us to shortlist candidates for interview based solely on their knowledge, skills and experience.
Right to work in the UK/UK VISA sponsorship
You must have the right to work in the UK and it is important to note that the NHF does not sponsor individuals to work in the UK.
Closing date for applications: 4 January 2026
Interview date: 14 and 15 January 2026
We are the voice of England’s housing associations.


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Lead innovative programmes that strengthen social cohesion and create lasting change. Join Belong and help communities thrive across the UK.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a central role in delivering impactful, evidence-based programmes that bring people together and foster inclusion. As Belong enters its next phase of growth, we are expanding our reach and deepening our impact. The Programme Lead will be at the heart of this journey, shaping and delivering high-quality initiatives that respond to local needs and drive systemic change.
About Belong
Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network is the UK’s leading not-for-profit organisation focused on building a more united and less divided society. We work with communities, local authorities, and national partners to strengthen trust, belonging, and resilience. Through place-based programmes, research, policy influence, and thought leadership, we help create stronger, kinder, and more connected communities. Our growing membership spans local authorities, charities, civil society, and businesses. Belong is collaborative, evidence-led, and committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
The Role
As Programme Lead, you will design and deliver innovative programmes that make a measurable difference to communities. You will lead the development of local strategies, co-create solutions with partners, and ensure programmes are inclusive, impactful, and aligned with Belong’s mission.
Key responsibilities include:
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Programme Design and Delivery
- Lead the delivery of Belong’s local programmes, ensuring they are evidence-based and responsive to community needs.
- Design and facilitate workshops, training sessions, and community engagement activities.
- Apply strong research methods, including desk-based analysis, surveys, and social media insights.
- Manage programme budgets, timelines, and resources to ensure effective delivery.
- Monitor and evaluate programme outcomes, producing reports and insights for stakeholders.
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Partnership and Stakeholder Engagement
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local authorities, community organisations, funders, and commissioners.
- Co-design programme approaches with partners, ensuring shared ownership and relevance.
- Represent Belong at external events, meetings, and forums to promote our work and build new opportunities.
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Strategic Development
- Contribute to Belong’s organisational strategy through programme innovation and learning.
- Support business development by identifying opportunities, developing proposals, and contributing to bids.
- Share learning and best practice across the organisation to inform future programme development.
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Planning, Delivery, and Risk Management
- Demonstrate strong project management skills, including coordination of deliverables and budget tracking.
- Conduct risk assessments and map risks and opportunities to ensure programme success.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in dynamic environments, enjoys working collaboratively, and is passionate about creating lasting change in communities.
About You
We are seeking a proactive and collaborative programme leader with:
- Proven experience in designing and delivering community-based programmes.
- Experience working in or with local government or voluntary sector organisations.
- Strong facilitation and engagement skills, with familiarity in participatory methods.
- Excellent project management skills and attention to detail.
- Experience in monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
- Ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships with strong communication skills.
- Relevant qualification in community development, public policy, or a related field.
- Strong understanding of social cohesion and integration issues.
- Highly organised and able to manage multiple priorities.
Desirable: Experience in Prevent, PCVE, community tensions, hate crime, or tackling misinformation.
Personal Qualities
- Passionate about improving cohesion and integration in the UK.
- Collaborative and solution-focused.
- Entrepreneurial and proactive in identifying opportunities.
- Practical, focused, and reliable.
- Able to thrive in a fast-paced and evolving environment.
- Committed to personal and professional development.
Why Join Us?
At Belong, you’ll be part of a dynamic, values-driven team united by a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and connected society. We offer:
- 30 days’ annual leave (plus bank holidays)
- Hybrid working (typically 3 days in the office)
- Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
Join us and help shape programmes that build stronger, kinder, and more connected communities across the UK.
Our office is based in Manchester and we offer hybrid working for those able to travel there. However, this role is open UK-wide and can be worked remotely, with regular travel across England and Wales required.