Employability jobs

For over 140 years, the Forces Employment Charity has proudly supported Service leavers, veterans, and their families in building successful civilian careers. We provide veterans with life-long, life-changing support, jobs, and training opportunities, regardless of circumstances, rank, length of service, or reason for leaving.

By working for FEC, you will become part of a vibrant team living the charity’s values: Expert, Supportive, Passionate, Open and Honest, Resilient, and Collaborative.

Brief role description 

NOVA provides trauma-informed, person-centred support to UK Armed Forces veterans who are at risk of, or already in contact with the criminal justice system. NOVA operates across England (as Op NOVA), Scotland and Wales. We are now developing the service in Northern Ireland.

The Caseworker for NOVA Northern Ireland will manage and support a caseload of veterans, providing emotional and practical support across a range of factors including mental health and wellbeing, social stability, housing and employability. They will be working in collaboration with local partners to reduce reoffending.

The Caseworker for NOVA Northern Ireland will work in the community, in partnership with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Probation Board for Northern Ireland (PBNI) and other local partners to provide support to veterans at all stages of the justice pathway: pre-arrest, point of arrest, court process, custody, and transition back into the community.

Interested? Want to know more about the Charity? Check our website.

Eager to know more about the role? Have a look at the Job Description: Job Description - Caseworker NOVA Northern Ireland.pdf

What’s in it for you? Check out our Benefits.

Have we convinced you to apply? If so, submit your CV and Covering Letter by Friday, 17 April 2026.

Got questions about the role? Get in touch with the People Team.

Please note: 

Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert; therefore, we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible. 

If you are an internal applicant, please ensure you have made The People Team aware before applying. 

We are committed to equal opportunities and improving the working lives of our staff by fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone, including those with disabilities, can thrive, develop, and achieve their full potential. We actively encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and ensure reasonable adjustments are made to support candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. 

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process.

#LI-DNI

Job Title: Skill Mill Supervisor 
Location: Cheshire
Contract: 2-year Fixed Term
Salary: £29,000 – £34,000 (annual increments, subject to performance & probation)
Reporting to: Operational Manager
Closing date: 4 April 2026
 

The Role 

This is an exciting opportunity to undertake one of the most crucial roles within the organisation. The Skill Mill Supervisor supports disadvantaged young people 16+ within the Justice System into work: 

• promoting learning and developing skills and pro-social behaviours 

• building relationships and establishing a work ethic  

• developing employability and practical skills  

• supporting the young people to overcome the barriers that can result in them failing to obtain or sustain opportunities that lead to sustainable training and employment. 
   

As the local Supervisor, you will be responsible for managing and working alongside a group of young people as they undertake assigned tasks that involve manual work / gaining a trade in addition to liaising with local partners to provide the team with opportunities to develop employment skills. 

The successful candidate will be expected to: 

• propose and develop innovative and effective plans to promote the Skill Mill locally,  

• risk assess and risk manage 

• cost and plan small works,  

• identify and source paid and unpaid work opportunities,  

• uphold health and safety requirements  

• and provide progress reports to customers and the Skill Mill management team. 

To be considered for this position it is essential that you have experience of direct work with young people who are considered to be at risk. This will include those who are at risk of crime, anti-social behaviour, previously been unemployed and may have had adverse childhood experiences.

You will possess previous experience of direct work with young people as well as experience of site / small scale construction / environmental / horticulture works and health and safety at work regulations. 
 

Key Responsibilities

Managing a team of young people and ensuring that you: 

• Establish positive, supportive, and trustworthy relationships with the young people to understand their needs and aspirations.  

• Provide emotional support, act as a listening ear, offer guidance on life skills, and encourage personal, social, and emotional development.  

• Work with young people to identify, set, and achieve personal and social goals, while also recording and tracking their progress.  

• Help young people discover and develop their skills, talents, interests, and aspirations, potentially through new opportunities and experiences.  

• Support young people in exploring positive pathways in education, training, and employment by encouraging positive choices and building resilience.  

• Uphold responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the young people you interact with.  

• Liaise with partners such as schools, social workers, and other services to ensure effective holistic support and signpost to specialist interventions.  

• Maintain accurate and professional case notes and records of interactions and outcomes, adhering to organisational policies and data collection requirements.  

• Assist with the day-to-day administration of the program, which may include database management, reporting, and communication.  

Undertaking environmental and construction jobs and tasks and duties as determined by partners and other contractors of The Skill Mill. These could include: 

• Landscaping and fencing works 

• Maintenance of gardens, parks, bridleways, and similar public areas 

• Clearance of debris and blockages that are associated with site management, flood risk and environmental damage 

• ground works potentially associated with flood risk management site maintenance and habitat development 

• Remedial shrubbery and foliage activity and banks work that are associated with flood risk invasive species clearance and habitat development 

• building, repairing and maintenance of culverts, conduits, pipework and other built areas that are associated with flood risk, watercourses and habitats 

• improvement and maintenance of habitats, including planting activity associated with  sustainable wildlife 

• Maintaining the safety of self and others in the workplace completing Risk Assessments and Method Statements where appropriate. 

• Participating in the training associated with the post 

Person Specification 
Essential Requirements: 

• experience of working with young people and helping them develop and achieve their potential. 

• Ability to apply best practice when working with young people to enable them to meet their objectives. 

• To communicate effectively with colleagues and partners to promote opportunities for young people. 

• Ability to work effectively with key partner organisations including criminal justice and businesses 

• Knowledge of industry/trade with a strong understanding of Health and Safety. 

• Clean Driving Licence as role is expected to transport young people to and from identified work experience provisions. 

• Enhanced DBS check is required 
   

What We Offer 

• A chance to make a real difference in a growing social enterprise. 

• A supportive and collaborative team environment. 

• Flexible working arrangements to suit your lifestyle. 

• 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays. 

• Opportunities for professional development and training. 
   

How to Apply 

To apply please send a CV and cover letter setting out your experience, qualifications and how you meet the requirements of the person specification. 
 

About The Skill Mill 

The Skill Mill is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background. 
The Skill Mill is an innovative social enterprise dedicated to transforming lives and communities. We provide employment opportunities for young people with criminal convictions, equipping them with skills and experience through delivering high-quality environmental services, such as grounds maintenance, horticulture, and flood prevention. Our mission is to reduce reoffending, enhance employability, and create sustainable social and environmental impact. 

Job Title: Skill Mill Supervisor 
Location: Cambridgeshire
Contract: 1-year Fixed Term (with the potential to extend, subject to funding)
Salary: £29,000 – £34,000 (annual increments, subject to performance & probation)
Reporting to: Operational Manager
Closing date: 4 April 2026

The Role 

This is an exciting opportunity to undertake one of the most crucial roles within the organisation. The Skill Mill Supervisor supports disadvantaged young people 16+ within the Justice System into work: 

• promoting learning and developing skills and pro-social behaviours 

• building relationships and establishing a work ethic  

• developing employability and practical skills  

• supporting the young people to overcome the barriers that can result in them failing to obtain or sustain opportunities that lead to sustainable training and employment. 
   

As the local Supervisor, you will be responsible for managing and working alongside a group of young people as they undertake assigned tasks that involve manual work / gaining a trade in addition to liaising with local partners to provide the team with opportunities to develop employment skills. 

The successful candidate will be expected to: 
 

• propose and develop innovative and effective plans to promote the Skill Mill locally,  

• risk assess and risk manage 

• cost and plan small works,  

• identify and source paid and unpaid work opportunities,  

• uphold health and safety requirements  

• and provide progress reports to customers and the Skill Mill management team. 
   

To be considered for this position it is essential that you have experience of direct work with young people who are considered to be at risk. This will include those who are at risk of crime, anti-social behaviour, previously been unemployed and may have had adverse childhood experiences.
You will possess previous experience of direct work with young people as well as experience of site / small scale construction / environmental / horticulture works and health and safety at work regulations. 
 

Key Responsibilities

Managing a team of young people and ensuring that you: 

• Establish positive, supportive, and trustworthy relationships with the young people to understand their needs and aspirations.  

• Provide emotional support, act as a listening ear, offer guidance on life skills, and encourage personal, social, and emotional development.  

• Work with young people to identify, set, and achieve personal and social goals, while also recording and tracking their progress.  

• Help young people discover and develop their skills, talents, interests, and aspirations, potentially through new opportunities and experiences.  

• Support young people in exploring positive pathways in education, training, and employment by encouraging positive choices and building resilience.  

• Uphold responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the young people you interact with.  

• Liaise with partners such as schools, social workers, and other services to ensure effective holistic support and signpost to specialist interventions.  

• Maintain accurate and professional case notes and records of interactions and outcomes, adhering to organisational policies and data collection requirements.  

• Assist with the day-to-day administration of the program, which may include database management, reporting, and communication.  

Undertaking environmental and construction jobs and tasks and duties as determined by partners and other contractors of The Skill Mill. These could include: 

• Landscaping and fencing works 

• Maintenance of gardens, parks, bridleways, and similar public areas 

• Clearance of debris and blockages that are associated with site management, flood risk and environmental damage 

• ground works potentially associated with flood risk management site maintenance and habitat development 

• Remedial shrubbery and foliage activity and banks work that are associated with flood risk invasive species clearance and habitat development 

• building, repairing and maintenance of culverts, conduits, pipework and other built areas that are associated with flood risk, watercourses and habitats 

• improvement and maintenance of habitats, including planting activity associated with  sustainable wildlife 

• Maintaining the safety of self and others in the workplace completing Risk Assessments and Method Statements where appropriate. 

• Participating in the training associated with the post 
   

Person Specification 
Essential Requirements: 
 

• experience of working with young people and helping them develop and achieve their potential. 

• Ability to apply best practice when working with young people to enable them to meet their objectives. 

• To communicate effectively with colleagues and partners to promote opportunities for young people. 

• Ability to work effectively with key partner organisations including criminal justice and businesses 

• Knowledge of industry/trade with a strong understanding of Health and Safety. 

• Clean Driving Licence as role is expected to transport young people to and from identified work experience provisions. 

• Enhanced DBS check is required 
   

What We Offer 

• A chance to make a real difference in a growing social enterprise. 

• A supportive and collaborative team environment. 

• Flexible working arrangements to suit your lifestyle. 

• 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays. 

• Opportunities for professional development and training. 
   

How to Apply 

To apply please send a CV and cover letter setting out your experience, qualifications and how you meet the requirements of the person specification. 

About The Skill Mill

The Skill Mill is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background. 

The Skill Mill is an innovative social enterprise dedicated to transforming lives and communities. We provide employment opportunities for young people with criminal convictions, equipping them with skills and experience through delivering high-quality environmental services, such as grounds maintenance, horticulture, and flood prevention. Our mission is to reduce reoffending, enhance employability, and create sustainable social and environmental impact. 

We are looking for a College Alumni Relations Manager to join our team to refine and expand a bold and innovative alumni volunteering programme to support both the priorities of the College of Medicine and Health and DARO. As a DARO business partner for the College, you will be based both within DARO and the College itself. You will join nine other volunteering professionals as part of the wider team and will be responsible for developing a range of volunteering opportunities for alumni, which support the College’s key priorities, and Birmingham 2030 targets, across a diversified curriculum, the student experience, graduate employability, student recruitment, research and influence. You will be responsible for growing the number of alumni volunteers for the College, reporting on the impact of your work internally and the relationship management of a number of key alumni contacts, with a clear focus on supporting international recruitment for the College. You will work with colleagues across DARO to bring alumni closer to the University to support Philanthropic giving.

The College of Medicine and Health

At the College of Medicine and Health we are shaping the future of health and medicine through the provision of innovative education and exceptional research, delivered by world-leading academics and supported by a diverse range of committed and high-performing Professional Services staff.

Development and Alumni Relations Office

The Development and Alumni Relations Office (DARO) exists to support this academic and student community by engaging, inspiring, and celebrating alumni, individuals, and charitable funders who give their money, time, and networks to support the University’s strategic priorities. The Office, which comprises over 50 staff across four teams, is focused on fundraising and volunteering from alumni and individuals who are passionate about changing lives, through funding various research initiatives, supporting student scholarships, mentoring students, and providing internships. The recent launch of the hugely ambitious Birmingham In Action campaign frames these efforts, as we seek to secure one million volunteering hours from our students, staff and alumni and raise £400 million in support of institutional priorities.

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy.

In this role you will deliver FSSW’s FareChance programme, including running employability workshops and practical logistics sessions. You will also provide 1-1 support for young people where required and signposting and referrals to other specialist services and career pathways. You will bring your passion and experience in supporting people to achieve their goals and be sensitive to the inequality and power imbalance faced by young people.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Programme Delivery

• Lead the delivery of practical warehouse activity sessions for active participants and taster sessions for potential participants
• Work with the Operations and Volunteer teams to ensure smooth integration of our participants and the programme
• Support the Employability Programme Manager to deliver Employability/Life skills workshops e.g. Interview/Communication skills, CV/Cover letter writing
• Work with the Employability Programme Manager to build an individualised plan and set of goals for each young person
• Identify specific needs and risks, liaising with senior colleagues, create and maintain risk assessments with individuals to ensure safety in the workplace

Programme Development

• Work with the Employability Programme Manager and FareChance participants around coproduction opportunities that impact on the delivery, development and evaluation of the programme
• Work with the Volunteer Team to ensure smooth transitions to and from FareChance to Volunteering where applicable
• Work with the Operations team to identify ways we can expand FareChance practical sessions to support day-to-day running of the hub and build further transferable skills
• Support young people to engage with internships within FSSW
• External partnerships and relationship building
• On occasion attend events or appointments to support recruitment/represent FSSW
• Attend a range of career away days as part of the FareChance programme
• Support the fundraising team in providing updates for employability funders
• Support the Employability Programme Manager to broaden ‘Next Step’ relationships and referral partnerships

Reporting and Administration

• Maintain quality records of all participant information, including interventions with project participants, ensuring that such data is stored within the requirements of the Data Protection Act and FSSW policies and procedures
• Work alongside the Head of Employability and Volunteering around any incidents or safeguarding concerns. Signpost to external agencies where appropriate
• Work with the fundraising and communications teams on internal and external reporting for FareChance, including gathering quantitative and qualitative data

Person Specification
Essential

• Knowledge and experience of delivering 1:1 and group motivational mentoring, coaching or support work
• Successful experience of supporting people back into work or training, with a strong commitment to advancing equality, diversity and inclusion
• Ability to work flexibly, respond positively to project changes and meet challenging targets
• Excellent interpersonal and listening skills with the ability to influence, motivate and negotiate.
• Good IT skills

Desirable

• Experience of working with a diverse range of young people and responding appropriately to challenging behaviours
• Understanding and/or experience of a logistics or warehouse environment
• Project supervision experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Understanding of safeguarding and GDPR regulations
• Ability to set up and maintain accurate and timely records for monitoring and evaluating purposes.
• Strong organisational skills including planning, prioritising and time management

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. As we expand our programmes, we particularly value candidates who bring multicultural perspectives and/or speak additional languages. Skills in languages such as Arabic, Pashto, or Farsi are highly desirable, but not essential. If you share our commitment to inclusion and want to make a positive impact, we’d love to hear from you.

We also welcome applications from people with convictions. This role requires an enhanced DBS check so applicants will be asked to disclose relevant unspent convictions at a later stage of the recruitment process. If you are asked to disclose, the information will be handled confidentially and used to assess your suitability for the role.
 

Job title: RWP Employment Keyworker

Reports to: Client Services Manager

Location: Manchester – hybrid working, with a minimum of 2 days a week in the office. 

Salary:                £28,000 - £31,000

Hours:                 37.5 hours

Contract: 2-year fixed term contract

Background

Breaking barriers is delivering a Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) funded programme to provide employment support to participants in the Refugee Welcome Programme (RWP) across Greater Manchester.

Overall purpose

The main purpose of this role is to support asylum seeking and refugee clients as part of a new statutory contract. You will work closely with the Client Services Manager to support clients to progress into relevant opportunities and signpost to appropriate services.

In summary this role will be responsible for:

· Managing a caseload of clients referred through the programme, supporting RWP clients into employment across GMCA boroughs.

· Supporting the Client Services Manager with data collection and reporting, within Breaking Barriers and across all delivery partners

· Conducting outreach to referral partners’ venues, providing introduction and information about the programme to engage potential participants.

· Managing monthly network meeting for referral partners, taking the lead on providing updates and discussing any emerging issues with referral partners.

· Delivery of in-person group sessions with partner organisations at community locations e.g. hotels

You’ll be a confident communicator, comfortable working with a range of partners and maintaining positive working relationships. Most importantly, you’ll share our commitment to working with marginalised communities and have a genuine passion for improving opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers.

The successful candidate will be experienced in supporting individuals to progress along their employment journey and understand the need to refer for holistic support.  We’re looking for someone who has experience working with people with multiple barriers to employment and building relationships with partners to try to address these. You should understand how to adapt your approach in 1-1 and group situations and be creative in developing and delivering group sessions.

Key responsibilities 

We are a fast-paced charity that prides itself on its flexibility and responsiveness so your responsibilities may change, develop and grow according to the needs and development of our services.

RWP Referral Partner coordination:

· Establish and maintain relationships with RWP referral partners to ensure the project is delivered in a collaborative and client-centred way.

· Establish and coordinate a monthly employment network meeting with referral partners

· Share updates on participant progression, emerging trends and anonymised case studies demonstrating impact

· Conduct outreach to various referral partner locations, introducing the service and engaging potential participants.

· Identify operational challenges and strengthen referral pathways

· Support the Client Services Manager to ensure good practice and quality in delivery.

· Support with project coordination to ensure outcomes. This includes but is not limited to recording and sharing minutes in partner meetings and incorporating data/learning for funder reports.

Client support

· Provide personalised employment support to a caseload of participants from the RWP programme across GMCA, helping them understand the UK labour market, define career goals, and develop employability skills.

· Support clients with all aspects of employment support in-person, in community centres, libraries, and RWP partner offices.

· Connect clients to training, qualifications and sector pathways

· Manage a caseload of clients with varying needs, adjusting frequency and intensity of support based on individual requirements. 

· Design and deliver group-based employability support in-person and remotely

· Liaise with volunteers to source additional expertise and mentoring opportunities for clients.

· Maintain relationships with referral partners from across Greater Manchester to manage client support and support agencies to signpost clients to additional services, including welfare, housing, and mental health support.

Monitoring and Reporting

· Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of client interactions, progress, and outcomes in the CRM system.

· Implement and adhere to monitoring and evaluation processes to track client outcomes and inform service improvements.

· Support data collection across all areas, ensuring accuracy for reports.  

· Contribute to monthly and quarterly reporting, working with the Client Services Manager to highlight areas of challenge and also good practice.

· Contribute and support management by sharing client case studies and stories for reports

Safeguarding

· Identify and escalate safeguarding concerns, making appropriate referrals and ensuring clients receive the support they need.

· Act as a first point of contact for safeguarding concerns during place-based employability sessions with RWP partners. Record and inform management as and when required.

Person specification

Essential:

• Experience providing employability support, careers advice, or guidance to individuals facing barriers to employment.

· Confidence in facilitating network meetings and building partnerships

· Experience supporting clients facing multiple and complex barriers (e.g., language, trauma, housing, mental health.

· Understanding of the refugee and asylum seeker experience and the systemic barriers they face.

· Experience of partnership working in the community or voluntary sector.

· Ability to work collaboratively and proactively with partners

· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work effectively with clients, colleagues, and partners from diverse backgrounds

· Ability to adapt communication and support style to different needs in both group and 1-1 settings, including low levels of English and varying digital literacy.

· Strong group facilitation and presentation skills, with creativity in designing engaging group-based activities (e.g. employability, ESOL-linked, orientation workshops).

· Knowledge of Greater Manchester employment, education and training landscape.

· Flexibility and willingness to work across multiple community locations in Greater Manchester.

· Experience using a CRM system to maintain client records demonstrating an understanding of data collection and reporting

• Strong administrative and organisational skills

· Ability to manage and prioritise a varied workload, including delivering sessions and providing one-to-one support

• Knowledge of safeguarding principles and experience handling safeguarding concerns appropriately.

· Understanding of Lived Experience of seeking sanctuary or forced migration to the UK.

Desirable:

· Experience supporting data collection and monitoring for projects or services

Additional Information:

• This role will require travel for client support and external stakeholder meetings or events.
• Some evening or weekend work may be required to support clients (TOIL provided)

Breaking Barriers is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion, or belief.

We aim for our workforce to be truly representative of all sections of society and our clients. We celebrate diversity within our workforce and are committed to creating a working environment free of bullying, harassment, victimisation, and unlawful discrimination, promoting dignity and respect for all, and where individual differences and the contributions of all staff are recognised and valued.

We belong to the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative, which advocates and supports organisations to employ more people from a refugee background. With this in mind, we particularly welcome applicants with experience of seeking asylum and/or a refugee background.

We received an accreditation for the Empowered Foundations training with a focus on reproductive health in the workplace. As part of the training, our managers accessed learning on pregnancy loss, fertility, flexible working and eliminating bias. We also have a Menopause and Menstrual Health in the Workplace Policy, to ensure colleagues experiencing symptoms receive the support they need.

As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, we are committed to offering an accessible recruitment process and guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role. We are also committed to ongoing workplace adjustments and support for colleagues who need them.

Accessibility of our offices

Our offices have full disabled access on all floors.

· WeWork Office (London): At the main entrance you can use the free access lift and then the main passenger lifts to all the floors. There is one disabled toilet per floor.

· Landmark Office (Birmingham): This building is designed as three specific cores served by a core staircase in each core – on each floor within each of these cores is the provision of male, female, unisex and accessible toilet facilities, with accessible passenger lifts to each floor.

· Clockwork Office (Manchester): TBC

· Spaces Office (Glasgow): 300 Bath Street offers wheelchair accessible lift from entry at street level up to reception and then accessible elevators serve the building overall. SPACES, located on the second floor, is level-entry throughout and has male, female and accessible disabled toilets available for use. 

The Hub Manager is responsible for the day-to-day leadership of a FSSW hub, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant operations that maximise the volume of surplus food received, stored, and distributed to our Community Food Members (CFMs). This includes managing a mixed team of staff, FareChance employability participants and volunteers in their operational tasks, maintaining high operational and health & safety standards, and collaborating with colleagues across food & logistics, compliance, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities
1. Operational Management

• Oversee and manage the safe and efficient daily operation of the hub, ensuring essential tasks are completed to a high standard.
• Ensure the hub is appropriately set up to meet Key Performance Indicators and goods in and deliveries out, working closely with the Head of Operations.
• Use FareShare UK (FSUK)’s digital stock system to manage product movements and maintain stock accuracy. Lead weekly stock takes and investigate discrepancies in collaboration with the compliance and food teams.
• Oversee the smooth intake and dispatch of food, liaising with food donors, FSUK, transport providers, and partners. Ensure food deliveries meet acceptance criteria and report any quality issues promptly.
• Ensure the Hub Operations team maintain positive relationships with CFMs, ensuring high standards of service and communication.
• Play an active role in identifying solutions to operational challenges, in collaboration with the food, membership and volunteer teams.
• Coordinate and manage external contractors for maintenance and repairs.
• Provide procurement support to secure value for money on consumables and equipment.
• With support from the wider FSSW team, meet food waste KPIs to ensure that we effectively maximise food redistribution to CFMs.
• Ensure adequate stock of operational supplies and equipment to support daily operations.
• Responsible for the Hub Operations controllable costs budget. Oversee the management of on-site petty cash in line with financial controls.
• Work with the Head of Operations to improve systems and integrate new processes to support growth and efficiency.
• Carry out analysis of the fleet and its equipment including weekly vehicle checks and basic maintenance duties (e.g. tyre pressures, topping up vehicle fluids). Work with the Fleet Coordinator to ensure the on-site vehicle fleet is well maintained, roadworthy and compliant.
• Contribute to delivery of the Operations Strategy, including key developments for FSSW.
• Carry out other duties as required to support the successful running of the hub.

2. Team Management

• Provide strong day-to-day leadership to a diverse team of staff and volunteers. Delegate tasks, give regular feedback, and maintain an open, inclusive working environment.
• Manage, supervise, and develop Line Reports, including performance management, appraisals, and training.
• Support effective recruitment and onboarding processes, ensuring appropriate support and shift cover. Identify shortfalls in rota cover and respond in effective and timely manner.
• Work with temporary staffing agencies to arrange short term hire drivers, when necessary.
• Collaborate with the Head of Operations and Volunteer Team to ensure effective volunteer induction and ongoing training. Support the Volunteer Manager in the delivery of corporate volunteer days.
• Register and onboard new drivers by delivering volunteer and staff driving assessments and agency driver inductions.
• Foster a positive and productive team culture in line with FareShare South West values.

3. FareChance Employability Programme

• Support the delivery of the FareChance programme by overseeing and supervising participants during operational tasks, ensuring they are actively engaged and contributing to the hub operations team.
• Ensure FareChance participants are effectively trained, supported, and equipped to carry out their allocated duties, with opportunities to build confidence and develop relevant skills, with support from the volunteer and employability teams.
• Foster a positive and inclusive environment that supports the health, safety and wellbeing of FareChance participants and enables them to thrive.
• Provide hands-on mentorship and act as a positive role model during day-to-day operations, supporting participants to build experience and confidence.
• Undertake relevant training to strengthen your ability to support FareChance participants and the wider volunteer team, including safeguarding, inclusive practice, mental health awareness and coaching approaches.
• Collaborate with the volunteer and employability team to ensure effective communication around support needs and progress.

4. Health & Safety (H&S) and Compliance

• Lead and manage safe, efficient, and compliant day-to-day operations of the Hub, ensuring all staff, volunteers, and FareChance participants follow health, safety, and food safety procedures at all times.
• Act as the on-site accountable manager for operational safety, including overseeing food handling, storage, vehicle use, manual handling, and equipment compliance.
• Champion a positive safety culture, modelling safe working practices and encouraging team members and participants to work safely and report hazards or incidents promptly.
• Oversee the supervision, training, and development of FareChance participants, ensuring they are supported to carry out operational tasks safely, build confidence, and develop skills.
• Maintain accurate records of health & safety activity, training, audits, risk assessments, incidents, and corrective actions, ensuring timely follow-up.
• Ensure the Hub complies with FareShare HACCP Food Safety Manual, Warehouse Manual, and all relevant legislation and audit standards.
• Lead on operational audits, internal checks, and reporting to the Head of Operations, ensuring continuous improvement in compliance and safety.
• Manage volunteers and staff effectively by delegating tasks, providing clear instructions, and maintaining a positive, inclusive, and productive environment.

5. Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement

• Lead on-site delivery of any compliance-related changes introduced by FSUK, ensuring they are followed through to completion and embedded in practice.
• Manage and enhance compliance of the hub premises in line with FareShare’s minimum operating standards and expectations for operational efficiency.
• Work with others to identify and implement improvements to systems, processes and workflows.
• Ensure operational audits and assessments are carried out, actions are followed up, and improvement plans delivered.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with other teams to support service development and innovation.

Person Specification
Essential

• Proven experience in warehouse or logistics operations, with responsibility for delivery of KPIs.
• Strong working knowledge of health & safety legislation and risk management within a warehouse setting and able to champion a safety-first culture while enabling productivity.
• Experience of and confidence in working with clear procedures and compliance requirements such as food safety, hygiene, and auditing processes.
• Can demonstrate supportive, motivational, proactive and structured team leadership, including recruitment, supervision, and performance management.
• Experience of working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with the ability to manage multiple priorities and respond in a calm, solutions-focused way under pressure.
• Competency in stock control systems and inventory management (e.g. digital stock systems such as GLADYS or similar).
• Clear and confident communicator, both written and verbal, with experience of cross-team and stakeholder communication.
• Able to demonstrate good judgement and decision-making, including escalating issues appropriately.
• Physically able to carry out the role, including manual handling and operating in warehouse conditions.
• Comfortable using basic IT tools (e.g. Microsoft Teams, email, online documents).
• Full UK driving licence, Forklift truck operator’s qualification (or willing to train as an essential part of the role)

Desirable

• Formal training or certification in health & safety, manual handling, or food hygiene.
• Experience of working in a charitable, volunteer-led, or community-based organisation.
• Experience of route planning and/or vehicle logistics coordination.
• Experience of working within a regulated or audited environment
• Experience contributing to or delivering change initiatives.

Attributes & Values

• Committed to FareShare South West’s work to fight hunger and tackle food waste
• Strong team player who supports collaboration and mutual accountability.
• Organised and methodical, with strong attention to detail.
• Reliable, consistent, and takes pride in maintaining high standards.
• Acts with integrity and openness; willing to learn from feedback and take responsibility.
• Enjoys being hands-on and actively involved in operational delivery.

Behaviours

• Leads by example and motivates others through positive, proactive behaviour.
• Calm and solutions-focused in challenging situations.
• Values and supports diversity and inclusion across the team.
• Communicates with respect and clarity, adapting style to suit audience.
• Champions a safety-first culture while enabling productivity.
• Embraces change and drives continuous improvement.
• Confident working within clear procedures and standards.

Additional Information

• Role may involve some manual handling; training will be provided.
• Enhanced DBS check required.

Contract Type: X2 Permanent

Assessment Centre: 2nd of April in-person

Let's make every day a chance to create a brighter future for the next generation!

Would you like to be part of the coolest team in town, collaborating with our Outreach and Marketing legends and our friendly customer service team here at The King's Trust? Together, we'll ensure that our young people get onboarded and engaged in our programmes safely and with style.

Dive deep to uncover any barriers that stand in their way, helping to remove those barriers to enable them to shine and propelling them on their journey towards amazing outcomes. Responsible for a group of young people, for one-on-one support and guidance or just gently pointing them in the right direction. You'll be on a mission to assist with travel expenses and find clever ways to handle their other commitments. You'll champion their support and learning needs with employers, and you'll be the ultimate liaison, working alongside partners like the job centre to ensure that nothing stands in the way of their success!

You’ll also be the guiding light for our delivery partners and service providers as we want them to deliver the best experience and outcomes for our young people. High-fives all around! Roll up your sleeves and deliver employability sessions directly to our incredible young people. You'll also help our Delivery Partners and volunteers do the same, both in person and virtually through our trusty MS Teams. When we're doing things face-to-face, you’ll need to hit the road and be there in person to help with programme delivery or programme visits to make sure all is running as smoothly as possible.

And if that’s not enough to keep you busy, you’ll also be keeping meticulous records of information and data on our young people, volunteers, and partners. It's all about making sure every step of their journey is accurately reflected in our systems so that it complies with our funding contracts.

We are a massive advocate of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion so it would be amazing if you could lead the charge in creating an environment where everyone feels seen, by implementing a local action plan that supports our big-picture EDI goals. Let's make positive change happen!

Be ready for anything and everything. Alongside all these fantastic responsibilities, you might find yourself wearing different hats and rocking them like a pro, this could even include deputising when the need arises.

Join the King's Trust Team and let’s make magic happen!

What happens next?  

Please submit a CV, and Cover Letter that includes your experience, transferrable skills and motivation to work for The King's Trust! The Team will be in touch about the next steps shortly after the closing date. 

Why do we need Youth Development Leads? 

Last year, we helped more than 40,000 Young People, with every three in four moving into a positive outcome for either work, education or training. Youth Development Leads play a crucial role in supporting young people, no matter the young person's background or current circumstances, to fulfil their full potential. We want to continue having a positive impact on young people’s lives and we couldn’t do this without the important work of Youth Development Leads! 

Perks for working at The Trust! 

• Great holiday package! 30 days annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays. Office closure on the days between Christmas and New Year 
• Flexible working! Unless the location of the role is remote, the Youth Development Lead role requires a combination of office days and working from home. 
• You can volunteer for and/or attend events – The King's Trust Awards, Pride, active events etc. 
• In-house learning platform! Develop your skills for your career and your role 
• Benefits platform! Everything from health and financial well-being support to discounts on your favourite restaurants, shops and cinemas. 
• Personal development opportunities through our Networks – KT CAN (Cultural Awareness Network), KT GEN (Gender Equality Network), KT DAWN (Disability & Wellbeing Network), and PULSE (LGBTQIA+ Network). 
• Fantastic Family leave! Receive 13 weeks of full pay and 13 weeks of half pay for maternity and adoption leave. Receive 8 weeks of full pay for paternity leave. 
• Interest-free season ticket loans 
• Cycle-to-Work Scheme
• The Trust will contribute 5% of your salary to the Trust Pension Scheme 
• Generous life assurance cover (4 x annual salary) 

About Sophie Hayes Foundation

Sophie Hayes Foundation is a small but mighty charity supporting women survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking as they rebuild their independent lives, free from re exploitation for the long-term.

We provide an employability programme which enables survivors to rediscover their skills, build their confidence and sense of purpose, develop workplace skills, and open up opportunities for work placements or volunteering. We also offer a conversational English course, a digital skills programme, and run a survivor network CREW (Creative Resilient Empowered Women).

We do all we can to meet survivors where they are in a complex system, flexing and adapting to need as it arises. We also do not accept a system which fails survivors, leaving them at risk of re-exploitation, and engage in policy and advocacy campaigns based on our lived and learnt experience.

In the words of our participants, “The Programme changed my life’s trajectory. We explored our purpose and discussed the idea of work and career as a central part. Sophie Hayes Foundation should not underestimate how much it plays a big role in people's lives.”

About the Role

We can’t do any of this work without brilliant and concerted fundraising efforts. SHF is independent and relies on funds from grant-making bodies, individuals, and businesses in our supporter community.

This role will be at the forefront of the realisation of SHF’s bold strategic ambitions. You will work alongside our small and dynamic executive team to unlock growth, develop new approaches and communicate our impact.

You will build a lead small, effective and positive fundraising and communications team.

You will develop deep and meaningful relationships with the individuals and organisations while support SHF’s work – and new supporters we have not met yet.

You will be hands on, getting stuck into grant applications, prospecting, communicating, and developing new engagement programmes.

We know small charity fundraising is no mean feat – you will get all the support and engagement you need from the SHF team and Board to do you very best work, in a hugely meaningful context.

You will have the opportunity to get involved in any and all parts of the organisation’s work, including policy advocacy, lived and learnt experience co-design, research and service delivery.

If you are an energetic, positive, collaborative and experienced fundraiser, we can’t wait to hear from you! You can find out more about the mission and values of Sophie Hayes Foundation our website: 

Objectives

FUNDRAISING

• Leadership of successful portfolio of grant funding, including stewardship of existing funders, and growth to new ones through high quality applications and proactive identification of opportunities.
• Development and implementation of income generation and diversification strategies, most particularly through major donors programme and corporate partnerships.
• Working alongside Executive team to develop programmes enabling new sources of funding to be opened up.
• Building close relationship with existing supporters and using network to significantly expand network and prospects, through supporter engagement journeys.
• Ensuring all fundraising activity is in line with the required legislative frameworks and complies with best practice.
• Funding to be opened up
• Building close relationship with existing supporters and using network to significantly expand network and prospects, through supporter engagement journeys.
• Ensuring all fundraising activity is in line with the required legislative frameworks and complies with best practice.

COMMUNICATIONS

• Developing the charity’s existing communications efforts into a coordinated, coherent, and impactful strategy, across all communications channels and traditional and social media.
• Developing and implement opportunities to raise the charity’s profile and engagement.
• Working alongside team members to develop and publicise the charity’s policy and advocacy activities, creating and leading innovative communications campaigns.
• Overseeing the production of all branded materials.
• Overseeing the charity’s duty of care to participants who share their stories, ensuring we approach this with due care and sensitivity, working with the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

MANAGEMENT 

• Managing and monitoring all parts of income generation and communications, especially high-quality impact reporting.
• Managing fundraising budget – setting budgets, reporting against them, managing funds, reporting to Board risk & finance committee on fundraising.
• Building a highly effective small team of 2-3 people – outcome-focused and empathetic line management of team members.
• Contributing as key member of Senior Executive Team to organisational strategy and decision-making.
• Acting as a senior leader and figurehead within the charity for all parts of development and fundraising.
• Working closely alongside the Board to unlock potential for income generation and communications.
• Undertaking any other duties as directed by the CEO which may be required. Experience & Skills
• Significant success and experience of impactful charitable fundraising from a diverse range of income streams, especially grants, major donors, and corporates. Or comparable experience of business development in another sector.
• Experience of communications campaigns, PR and marketing.
• Convincing and engaging written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build excellent collaborative working relationships across a wide range of people; colleagues, external partners and funders.
• Highly organised. Ability to prioritise workloads, project manage and deliver to deadlines, often with competing priorities.
• A knowledge of the Modern Slavery sector & trauma-informed practices is desired but not essential, but a commitment to the vision, purpose, and values of Sophie Hayes Foundation is important.
• Effective line management skills and ability to deliver alongside and through small team.
• Positive, creative, entrepreneurial, and solutions-focused.
• Proactive, dynamic, able to work effectively independently. 

Job Title: Regional Operations Manager 
Location: Midlands (flexible – with travel across delivery areas)
Reports to: Chief Operating Officer  
Contract Type: 2 years fixed term contract, Full-Time
Salary: £40,000 pa
Start Date:  March / April 2026 
 

Role Purpose 
The Regional Operations Manager will be responsible for the effective day-to-day delivery of The Skill Mill programmes, ensuring seamless coordination between The Skill Mill Supervisors, local Youth Justice Services, Pathways Advisors, and the Commercial Sales Manager. The role will focus on operational excellence, stakeholder engagement, and the smooth running of activities that contribute to The Skill Mill’s social impact. 
 

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Coordination 

- Oversee and support The Skill Mill Supervisors to ensure the delivery of high-quality, safe, and impactful work programmes. 
- Act as the central point of contact between Supervisors, Youth Justice Services, Pathways Advisors, and the Commercial Sales Manager. 
- Monitor daily operations and resolve any operational challenges quickly and effectively. 
- Ensure all work complies with organisational policies, procedures, and health & safety regulations. 

Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Management:

- Build strong, collaborative relationships with local Youth Justice Services and Pathways Advisors to support young people’s progression. 
- Work closely with the Commercial Sales Manager to align operational delivery with commercial project requirements and client expectations. 
- Represent The Skill Mill at operational and partnership meetings. 

Performance Monitoring & Reporting:

- Track and monitor project progress, ensuring that targets for social outcomes and commercial delivery are met. 
- Prepare and present operational performance reports to the Senior Management Team. 
- Implement systems to measure quality, efficiency, and impact. 
 

Team Support & Development 

- Support and mentor Supervisors to maintain high standards of practice and delivery. 
- Identify training needs and facilitate professional development opportunities. 
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and accountable team culture. 
 

Person Specification:
Essential 

- Experience in operational or project management, ideally in a social enterprise, youth justice, or community development setting. 
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills. 
- Proven ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders and workstreams. 
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and work under pressure. 
- Knowledge of safeguarding, youth justice, and/or working with vulnerable young people. 
- Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office and project management tools. 
- Commitment to The Skill Mill’s mission and values. 

Desirable 

- Experience managing commercial contracts or community-based service delivery. 
- Understanding of outcomes-based commissioning. 
- Health & Safety qualification or equivalent experience. 

Key Relationships 

- The Skill Mill Supervisors 
- Youth Justice Services 
- Pathways Advisors 
- Commercial Sales Manager 
- Senior Management Team 
- External partners and clients 
 

About The Skill Mill:

The Skill Mill is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background.

The Skill Mill is an innovative social enterprise dedicated to transforming lives and communities. We provide employment opportunities for young people with criminal convictions, equipping them with skills and experience through delivering high-quality environmental services, such as grounds maintenance, horticulture, and flood prevention. Our mission is to reduce reoffending, enhance employability, and create sustainable social and environmental impact.

About Us 

Inspire is a charity based in East London. We inspire children and young people across London and beyond, using data to understand the barriers they face and connecting them with a range of employers and opportunities to open doors to their success. 

We have over 30 years of experience in delivering high quality services and programmes to children, young people, schools, local authorities and employers. Working alongside our large network of employer volunteers, we design and deliver programmes that inspire and support children and young people to create a positive future for themselves in their journey from the classroom to workplace.  We provide them with independent careers guidance, high aspirations and strong employability skills. 

The Opportunity 

Are you passionate and enthusiastic about advancing social mobility and ensuring all young people have access to the opportunities and inspiration they need to achieve their full potential? If so, this role is for you. 

We are seeking a Senior Business Development and Partnerships Manager to join us in a pivotal role in our Business Development Team. This is a new role for our charity that will make a significant contribution to delivery of our high quality services to children and young people, providing them with opportunities and inspiration to enable them to create a positive future for themselves and open doors to their success.

If you are self-motivated, enthusiastic and confident, with experience and a proven track record in successfully securing, managing and developing long term, five figure levels and above partnerships from initial prospect research through to contracting and ongoing management, then this role is for you. Working alongside our Director of Business Development and Partnerships, you will pro-actively manage business development activity, steward partnerships and raise funds for Inspire from a range of sources including corporate partnerships, community fundraising, trusts and foundations. 

Key responsibilities of the role include: 

1. Identifying and securing new business development opportunities in the corporate, trust and foundations sectors that align with our mission and objectives. 

2. Developing and maintaining a pipeline of prospects for new business opportunities, targeting five-figure level and above partnerships to deliver high-value, long-term partnerships and achieve financial targets and KPIs. 

3. Supporting creation and submission of funding applications to corporates, statutory bodies, trusts and foundations. 

4. Management and growth of Inspire's entry to mid-level corporate partnerships. 

5. Collaborate with colleagues to scale up existing, funded programmes and develop creative, dynamic and winning proposals. 

6. Supporting marketing and communications to promote Inspire and its programmes including development of marketing and social media materials. 

Benefits 

29 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays 

3 volunteering days per year 

Family friendly policies 

Hybrid working arrangements. 

If you have the skills and desire to join our team, please see our job description for further details. 

Inspire is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.The successful candidate will be required to apply for an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service. 

Application process 

If you wish to apply for this role please provide your CV, a covering letter to demonstrate your skills and experience, and your answers to the following questions. Please keep your answers to a maximum of 250 words each: 

1. Strategic Partnerships: 

Describe a partnership you identified and secured that had a significant impact on your organisation’s growth. What was your strategy for engaging the partner and what measurable outcomes were achieved? 

2. Pipeline Strategy & Prioritisation: 

Highlight your experience in building a high performing pipeline that drives measurable income, how do you identify, evaluate, and prioritise new opportunities, markets, or partners? Please explain your decision making process — including the frameworks, criteria, and tools you use to qualify leads, assess commercial potential, and determine where to focus your efforts. 

Use of AI 

We use anonymised recruitment methods for shortlisting and do not use AI when reviewing applications or making hiring decisions. We understand some people may use AI when creating their application, however we value authenticity. Please ensure your application is an accurate, honest reflection of your own experience and skills - we want to get to know you during our recruitment process. 

Closing date 

While this application process has a closing date, we will review applications as we receive them and invite shortlisted applicants to interview on a rolling basis. We would therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as you are able. 

Unfortunately, due to the number of applications we receive we are unable to contact unsuccessful applications.

Barnardo's is seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Multi Skills Construction Tutor to deliver high quality training across a range of construction disciplines, including plastering, tiling, and painting and decorating. 

Location: The Triangle, 2 Coxwell Road, Upper Norwood, London, SE19 3BG 
Working Pattern: Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm 

This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward thinking learning provider that uses innovative and creative teaching approaches to support vulnerable young people. You'll play a key role in the growth of the Barnardo's ETS (Employability, Training and Skills) London provision, delivering study programmes for young people aged 16–18 (and up to 25 with an EHCP). 

What You'll Do 

• Deliver engaging, practical training sessions across multiple construction trades. 

• Work creatively and assertively to engage Hard to reach young people. 

• Develop high quality schemes of work, lesson plans, and teaching resources that meet curriculum requirements. 

• Equip young people with essential construction skills, as well as personal, social, and employability skills to help them progress into sustained employment or further training. 

• Support the team in sourcing suitable work placements and help young people attend and succeed during their placements. 

• Manage a caseload and contribute to achieving key performance indicators, including qualification achievement, attendance, and learner progression. 

Who We're Looking For 

• Teaching qualification (PTLLS/Cert Ed/PGCE/Assessor Award or equivalent). 

• Level 3+ qualification in a relevant construction trade. 

• Understanding of Ofsted regulated programmes (Study Programmes, AEB, Apprenticeships). 

• Experience teaching or supporting young people in vocational/education settings. 

• Recent industry experience in plastering, painting & decorating, or similar. 

• Experience working with young people with SEND, care experience or complex needs. 

• A motivated and adaptable construction professional with excellent communication skills, and a genuine passion for helping young people overcome barriers and reach their potential. 

For more information about this role, please contact Rebecca Knowles - rebecca . knowles @ barnardos. org. uk

Location: Ideally, London; however, we can accept applications from Bristol and Manchester too

1st stage interviews: 07/04 and 08/04 (over MS Teams)

2nd stage interviews: 14/04 (in our South London Centre)

For more information or to apply, please click "apply now" to be directed to our careers site.

We’re looking for an ambitious individual with strong relationship-building skills to join our team as a Senior Partnerships Manager focused on the technology, media and commercial sectors. If you are an enthusiastic, creative, and self-motivated individual with a track record in supporting and developing fundraising partnerships, then this is the role for you.

You will be joining the team at a critical time as we develop creative ways to solve the challenges faced by young people today. We have a bold Corporate Partnerships income target, and this role will play an important part in helping us deliver our organisational promise, with a specific focus on tech and media activations. 

We work with a fantastic variety of organisations, including Apple, Amazon, Sky and TikTok, and our partnerships continue to evolve and deliver a wide range of value measures to each business, The King's Trust and the young people we support.

Our sector partnerships have an incredible impact on young lives. Some examples include:

• Employability: connecting businesses with young people to provide a pipeline of new, diverse talent, whilst having a lasting impact on young people’s lives.
• Commercial: building commercial and brand-awareness campaigns and establishing valuable sponsorship opportunities.
• Employee Engagement: inspiring employees with fun, meaningful ways to fundraise for The Trust, and share their skills through volunteering with young people.

You will lead, manage, and grow a portfolio of strategic corporate partnerships including Sky and TikTok to generate the essential income we need to transform young people’s lives.  

Your role as Senior Partnerships Manager will be to:

• Lead and deliver against the strategic direction for your partners, ensuring robust partnership plans are in place to enable increased and continued support of our work.
• Ensure financial targets are met and deliver partnership objectives, including programme activity, employee engagement, commercial, and marketing & communications.
• Provide support and leadership to a matrix team of account managers and executives.

You will join an ambitious, collaborative team of partnership experts who are passionate about providing young people the opportunity to live, learn and earn – creating a better future through jobs and education.

What happens next?  

Please submit a CV and Cover Letter that includes your experience, transferable skills and motivation to work for The King's Trust! The Team will be in touch about the next steps shortly after the closing date. 

Why do we need Senior Corporate Partnerships Managers? 

Last year, we helped more than 40,000 Young People, with three in four young people on our programmes moving into a positive outcome in work, education or training. The young people we help face a range of challenges, such as unemployment, mental health issues or some who have been in trouble with the law. We believe all young people should have the chance to succeed, and that young people are the key to a positive and prosperous future for all of us. We want to continue having a positive impact on young people’s lives, and we couldn’t do this without the important work of Senior Corporate Partnerships Managers! 

Perks for working at The Trust! 

• Great holiday package! 30 days annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays. Office closure on the days between Christmas and New Year 
• Flexible working! Where operationally possible, our roles require a combination of office days and working from home (please speak to the hiring manager about this particular role)
• You can volunteer for and/or attend events – The King's Trust Awards, Pride, active events, etc. 
• In-house learning platform! Develop your skills for your career and your role 
• Benefits platform! Everything from health and financial well-being support to discounts on your favourite restaurants, shops and cinemas. 
• Personal development opportunities through our Networks – KT CAN (Cultural Awareness Network), KT GEN (Gender Equality Network), KT DAWN (Disability & Wellbeing Network), and PULSE (LGBTQIA+ Network). 
• Fantastic Family leave! Receive 13 weeks of full pay and 13 weeks of half pay for maternity and adoption leave. Receive 8 weeks of full pay for paternity leave. 
• Interest-free season ticket loans 
• The Trust will contribute 5% of your salary to the Trust Pension Scheme 
• Generous life assurance cover (4 x annual salary) 

Equal Opportunities 

Here at The King's Trust, we're committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We want to be an organisation that's representative of the communities we serve, which is why we strive for diversity of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, race, religion and sex. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone, from any background, can be themselves and do the best work of their lives. 

We are looking for people who can bring different perspectives and experiences, and especially welcome applications from those who are underrepresented in our organisation and sector, such as candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds.  

We’re a Stonewall Top 100 Employer, and we are an employer that is Disability Confident. Our staff, volunteers and young people are supported by KT CAN (our Cultural Awareness Network), KT GEN (Gender Equality Network), KT DAWN (Disability & Wellbeing Network) and PULSE (LGBTQIA+ Network).

Safeguarding 

The King's Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As part of this commitment, we undertake basic disclosure checks in accordance with the Codes of Practice for all roles within the Trust, and for our roles working directly with young people, at an enhanced level. Having a criminal record will not automatically exclude applicants. 

A NOTE FOR RECRUITMENT AGENCIES:

We prefer to hire people directly, but we do have a preferred supplier list for when we need a helping hand. We'll be in touch directly if we need you!

Req ID: 3884 

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Organisation: The Skill Mill
Location: Remote, with expectations to travel to Gateshead and occasional travel to other UK locations
Salary: £45,000 pa 
Contract Type: 2 years fixed term contract, Full-Time
Reporting to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Job Purpose:

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will play a pivotal role in driving the operational success of The Skill Mill. Working closely with the CEO, the COO will oversee day-to-day operations through line-management of the 3 regional Operations Managers, will ensure the delivery of exceptional services, and will support the growth of our social enterprise model across the UK and beyond. This is a strategic leadership position, requiring a dynamic individual with a passion for social impact, operational excellence, and business development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership: Oversee all operational functions, including service delivery, project management, and workforce coordination, ensuring high standards and client satisfaction.

• Strategic Growth: Collaborate with the CEO to develop and implement expansion plans, identifying new partnerships, contracts, and opportunities to scale The Skill Mill’s impact, ensuring operational readiness and quality as the organisation scales.

• Team Management: Lead, motivate, and develop The Skill Mill’s operational delivery teams (see attached structure chart), including the Operations Managers, the Pathway Advisors, and the Supervisors, fostering a culture of inclusion, accountability, and continuous improvement. Lead workforce planning, staff development and wellbeing to ensure a sustainable, motivated and resilient workforce.

• Financial Oversight: Work with the finance team to manage budgets, monitor performance against targets, and ensure cost-effective operations while maintaining quality.

• Governance: Supporting organisation and partnership governance by contributing to papers, risk registers and performance reports, engaging in solution-focused discussion at relevant forums, and ensuring feedback loops with operational delivery teams.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including local authorities, commercial clients, criminal justice partners, and community organisations.

• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure all activities comply with legal, regulatory, and health and safety standards, mitigating risks effectively and escalating through appropriate organisational and legal pathways where necessary.

• Safeguarding: Act as senior lead and an initial escalation point for safeguarding, ensuring robust policies, training, reporting and continuous improvement.

• Impact:

         - Measurement: Monitor and report on social and environmental outcomes, ensuring alignment with The Skill Mill’s mission and funding requirements.

         - Performance: Work alongside partners, including Social Outcomes, evaluation and funding partners to drive performance in line with key success milestones, and engage in collaborative problem-solving to improve the offer and overcome challenges.

         - Quality Assurance: Contribute to organisational quality assurance processes by providing operational insight to support effective monitoring and review. Facilitate and support quality assurance audits, reviews and continuous improvement practices across operational delivery, working closely with operational delivery teams and relevant partners to ensure learning is embedded and service standards are consistently met.

• Innovation: Drive operational efficiencies and explore innovative approaches to service delivery and trainee support.
   

Person Specification:
Experience:

• An understanding of, and sensitivity to, working with vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.

Skills and Abilities:

• A values-led approach to strategy, with the ability to balance social impact, quality, and financial sustainability in strategic and operational decision-making.

• Exceptional leadership and people management skills, with a collaborative and empowering approach.

• Confident in using insights from performance data and information to drive continuous improvement

• A clear, confident and inclusive communication style, with the ability to engage, motivate and align within the organisation and externally

• A collaborative approach to partnership working, with the ability to navigate differing priorities and build trusted relationships across sectors/ stakeholders.

• Proficiency in working with digital tools that support operational efficiency (e.g., CRMs, project management software, Microsoft Office/Google Suite)

• Ability to translate organisational strategy into actionable operational plans
  ​

Personal Attributes:​

• Passionate about social justice, youth development, and environmental sustainability

• Resilient, adaptable, and solution-focused, with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.

• Commitment to The Skill Mill’s values of opportunity, integrity, and excellence.
  ​

What We Offer:​

• The chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of young people and the environment.

• A supportive and purpose-driven work environment.

• Opportunities for professional growth as part of a growing social enterprise.
   

Essential Requirements:

Experience:

• Proven senior leadership experience in managing operations, ideally within criminal justice or a social enterprise, charity, or environmental services sector.

• Demonstrable ability to lead and manage complex operational delivery in multiple geographical areas, ensuring quality and consistency across teams.

• Demonstrable success in growing an organisation or enhancing service delivery, including securing contracts and partnerships.

• Experience managing diverse teams in a hybrid work environment

• Experience of working effectively with external partners, including commissioners, criminal justice agencies and/or commercial organisations.
   

Skills and Abilities:

• Analytical mindset with experience in budgeting, performance monitoring, and process improvement.
   

Qualifications and Certifications:

• A relevant degree or equivalent professional qualification (e.g., business management, operations, or social enterprise leadership) is preferred but not essential.

• Enhanced DBS check is required.

About The Skill Mill:

The Skill Mill is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background.

The Skill Mill is an innovative social enterprise dedicated to transforming lives and communities. We provide employment opportunities for young people with criminal convictions, equipping them with skills and experience through delivering high-quality environmental services, such as grounds maintenance, horticulture, and flood prevention. Our mission is to reduce reoffending, enhance employability, and create sustainable social and environmental impact.