Event assistant jobs in watford, hertfordshire

Position title: Operations Officer

Reports to: Director of Operations

Direct reports: None at present. Operations Assistant in the future, subject to funding.

Key stakeholders: Director of Operations, Finance Manager, Communications Manager, Membership Manager, Director of Income and Investment, UKMSA team, volunteers

Location: Remote (with occasional UK travel)

Salary: Level 3 – £30,000-£35,000

The Operations Officer is a vital enabler within UK Men’s Sheds Association (UKMSA), supporting the Director of Operations and wider team to ensure that internal systems, communications, and events run smoothly and effectively. Operating as a competent professional with minimal supervision, the postholder brings a practical, solutions-focused mindset to help our staff and volunteers navigate UKMSA with confidence and ease.

Acting as both a systems fixer and first point of contact, the Operations Officer handles incoming queries, whether by phone, email, or other channels, making sure they reach the right person quickly and are followed up appropriately. They take ownership of the “how”, for example, ensuring platforms like SharePoint are clear and usable, templates and resources are easy to find, and everyday processes feel intuitive and joined-up.

They also play a key role in supporting the delivery of UKMSA events, helping to coordinate logistics, manage information, and ensure all activities are well-organised, inclusive and aligned with UKMSA’s values. Proactive in spotting friction points across systems and operations, they resolve them constructively and collaboratively, always aiming to make things easier for others.

This role will suit someone who is calm under pressure, friendly, and unflappable; someone who brings patience and clarity when others feel frustrated, and who sees their job as enabling others to succeed. A natural organiser with a service mindset, the Operations Officer keeps things moving, keeps people informed, and brings a steady hand to the fast-paced, values-led environment of UKMSA.

Key responsibilities:

1. Support to the Director of Operations

· Provide flexible and proactive administrative support to the Director of Operations across a range of operational functions.

· Maintain and update Breathe and all HR records and internal trackers, ensuring information is accurate, current, and securely stored.

· Assist with project coordination, document preparation, supplier management, and other operational tasks as delegated.

· Ensure tasks are completed in a timely and organised manner, helping the Director manage priorities and maintain momentum.

2. Systems and process support

· Help the entirely remote staff and volunteers navigate UKMSA’s systems and tools (for example, platforms like SharePoint) with clarity and confidence.

· Work with other UKMSA staff to make systems more straight-forward. For example, work with the Finance Manager to help volunteers find easier ways to claim expenses.  

· Act as a practical, approachable source of support for system-related queries, ensuring others can easily find what they need to do their job. Adapt systems considering their experiences.

· Identify pain points in internal processes and work constructively with others to improve them, streamlining structures, simplifying workflows, and keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes.

· Maintain and update shared systems and spaces to ensure they are accessible, user-friendly, and fit for purpose.

 

3. First point of contact

· Receive, triage and manage incoming phone calls, emails, and letters to UKMSA, ensuring they are passed on promptly and appropriately to the right member of staff or volunteer.

· Maintain clear systems for logging, redirecting, and following up on incoming queries to support accountability and responsiveness.

· Identify and suggest ways to make it easier for people, both inside and outside the organisation, to get the information or help they need efficiently. For example, work with the Membership Manager and Head of Volunteering to develop a bank of frequently used resources and materials.

 

4. Events co-ordination

· Support the Director of Operations, colleague and external consultants in the planning and delivery of UKMSA events including conferences, online webinars, training sessions, and member gatherings.

· Liaise with venues, suppliers, speakers, and internal colleagues to ensure smooth and timely event logistics.

· Manage practical event delivery tasks such as attendee registration, materials preparation, evaluation collection, and post-event communications.

· Contribute to the creation of inclusive, safe, well-organised events that reflect UKMSA’s values and create value for members, volunteers, and partners.

 

Key expertise required:

· Strong administrative and organisational skills, with a proven ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain accuracy across a range of operational and logistical duties.

· Experience supporting senior leaders or operational functions, ideally in a charity, membership organisation or similarly values-led environment.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence and professionalism to liaise effectively with staff, volunteers, suppliers, and members of the public.

· Proficiency with digital systems and platforms, including file storage systems (e.g. SharePoint or Google Drive), spreadsheets, document templates, and basic CRM or event tools.

· Experience supporting events coordination, including handling logistics, communicating with participants, and ensuring smooth delivery.

· A practical and solutions-focused mindset, with the ability to spot inefficiencies or confusion in systems or processes and work constructively to improve them.

· Ability to work independently, using initiative to solve problems and manage priorities, while also being a supportive and collaborative team member.

· A calm, friendly and patient approach, especially when supporting colleagues or volunteers who are frustrated or unfamiliar with systems or processes.

· Understanding of confidentiality and data protection principles, with experience handling sensitive information responsibly and professionally.

· Experience working with volunteers, and a respectful, enabling approach that recognises the contribution and centrality of volunteers within the Shedding movement and wider charity.

· Commitment to UKMSA’s mission and values, with an appreciation for the volunteer-led nature of the Shedding movement and the culture it reflects.

What success looks like:

· People across the organisation feel supported, informed, and able to get things done. Staff and volunteers know who to go to for help, and when they do, the experience is clear, calm, and constructive.

· Systems and processes feel intuitive and smooth. The bumps have been ironed out, key resources are easy to find, and internal tools support rather than frustrate.

· Enquiries and issues are handled efficiently and appropriately. Whether it’s a public query or a board member request, it reaches the right person quickly and nothing falls through the cracks.

· Events are well organised, well attended, and well received. From logistics to follow-up, the Operations Officer plays a dependable role in making UKMSA events run smoothly and reflect the organisation’s values.

· The Director of Operations is well supported and can delegate confidently, stay focused on strategic work, and trust that operational details are being managed with care and follow-through.

· Colleagues describe the Operations Officer as calm, responsive and dependable. They are appreciated for being steady under pressure, friendly when others are stressed, and always looking for ways to make things easier.

· The role continues to evolve. As systems improve and the organisation changes, so does the shape of the role, with the postholder identifying new ways to add value and solve problems.

This job is not:

· This is not a strategic or senior leadership role. While the Operations Officer supports cross-organisational functions and works closely with senior staff, they are not responsible for setting strategy or making high-level decisions.

· This is not a purely administrative role. Although administration is an important part of the job, the role goes beyond task-based support, requiring initiative, systems thinking, and confident engagement with people across the organisation.

· This is not a technical IT role, though the postholder should be confident using digital systems and helping others navigate them.

· This is not a passive or isolated role. The Operations Officer is expected to proactively work closely with colleagues, volunteers, board members, and external contacts, often representing the operational “face” of the organisation and playing a key role in how things function day to day.

· This is not a static or routine-only role. As systems improve and the organisation evolves, the challenges and priorities will shift especially if the postholder is effective at smoothing processes and solving problems. The role requires adaptability, curiosity, and a willingness to respond to what’s needed.

Closing date: 1200hrs 9th October 2025
Interview : 24th October 2025

The main job purpose is to work with our partners, schools and funders to ensure our programmes and activities in special schools, alternative provisions and other programmes are well supported, well managed and delivered to an extremely high standard.

The role will include:

• day-to-day administration of our SEND and Alternative Provisions programmes
• ensuring partner relationships are well managed and maintained
• supporting high-quality facilitation and delivery of workshops, activities and events

Read the full job pack here for more information and how to apply.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join the vibrant Fundraising and Development team at Bancroft’s School. As the Fundraising and Alumni Assistant, you will be at the heart of building and nurturing a strong, connected Bancroft’s community - especially among alumni, donors and friends of the school as well as contributing directly to the School’s mission of changing lives through education and opportunity.

The Fundraising and Development Department at Bancroft's School comprises the Director of Fundraising and Development, Data and Development Officer and Fundraising and Alumni Assistant. They oversee the Bancroft's Foundation, alumni and community engagement, donor relations, and fundraising initiatives including events; playing a key role in advancing the School’s philanthropic and community goals.

Reporting to the Director of Fundraising and Development, you will play a key role in planning and delivering events, managing and disseminating communications and supporting fundraising efforts. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys rolling up their sleeves, getting involved in details and making things happen.

The purpose of this role is to strengthen relationships across the Bancroft’s community - especially alumni and potential donors - through engaging events, thoughtful communications, and proactive logistical support. This role blends relationship-building with practical execution and requires someone who is both people-focused and detail-oriented.

The post is full-time, 52 weeks per year. The working hours are 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 4.30pm, with 30 minutes unpaid lunch. The role will be office-based during term time, with flexibility for occasional remote work during the 18 weeks of the school holidays. Four days a week will be considered. Willingness to work evenings and weekends as required for events.

Holidays for a full-time member of staff are 27 days per year, as well as 8 Bank Holidays, to be taken during the school holidays, unless otherwise agreed by the Director of Fundraising and Development.

The salary range for the full-time role is £32,000 - £34,000, based upon experience.

We offer a generous benefits package (details are listed in our job pack), including a competitive salary, and have a commitment to supporting ongoing professional development for all of our staff.

Bancroft’s School creates a happy learning environment, where bright children are challenged and supported to become the best versions of themselves. Bancroft’s is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community - a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit.

For further details and to apply, please visit our website.

Closing date: 10.00am on Monday 29th September 2025.

Interview date: Tuesday 7th October 2025. 

Applications will be considered as they are received, so early applications are encouraged. We reserve the right to interview early applicants should a suitable candidate apply.

Bancroft’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Applicants are required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the role, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Bancroft’s may carry out online searches on shortlisted applicants and all applicants will be required to provide details of their online profile, including social media accounts, as part of their applications.

The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Bancroft’s is therefore permitted to ask job applicants to declare all convictions and cautions on a self-declaration form in advance of attending an interview (including those which are “spent” unless they are “protected” under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.

Temporary Executive Assistant
Location: London (2–3 days office-based, remainder remote)
Duration: 3 months initially, with potential to extend
Rate: £21.97 – £24.72 per hour
Full-time

We’re working with a leading charity to recruit a highly skilled and proactive Executive Assistant for an initial 3-month temporary contract. This is a fantastic opportunity to support the Chief Executive in a pivotal role while leading and coordinating the work of a small PA team.

About the role

You’ll act as the right hand to the CEO, providing executive-level support, managing complex diaries and communications, and ensuring the smooth running of high-level meetings and events. You’ll also line manage Executive PAs, helping to deliver a first-class support service to the wider leadership team.

This is a dynamic and varied role, ranging from preparing trustee reports and external briefings, to attending key meetings with the CEO, and coordinating high-profile communications. You’ll need to be highly organised, discreet, and comfortable handling sensitive information with confidence.

About you

We’re looking for someone with:

• Significant experience as an Executive Assistant, ideally at CEO or Board level

• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to juggle competing priorities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Experience managing and developing a small team

• A collaborative, flexible, and proactive approach

• Willingness to travel and adapt to changing schedules

What’s on offer

• Competitive hourly rate (£21.97–£24.72 per hour)

• Hybrid working (2–3 days per week in the London office, remainder from home)

• The chance to play a key role in supporting a high-profile CEO and leadership team within the charity sector

If you are available immediately and have the experience required, we would love to hear from you. 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so please apply without delay. 

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.

About us

We’re Breast Cancer Now, the research and support charity. We’re the place to turn to for anything and everything to do with breast cancer. However you’re experiencing breast cancer, we’re here. 

The brightest minds in breast cancer research are here. Making life-saving research happen in labs across the UK and Ireland. Support services, trustworthy breast cancer information and specialist nurses are here. Ready to support you whenever you need it. Dedicated campaigners are here. Fighting for the best possible treatment, services and care for anyone affected by breast cancer.

About the role

You’ll play a key role in supporting the healthcare professional engagement team. This includes overseeing team activities, database management and managing team inboxes. As well as providing general administrative support to the whole team.

About you

You’re have a strong background with administrative experience. You’ll enjoy working as part of a busy and high performing team and will have excellent organisational skills, with the ability to organize your work effectively and prioritise competing deadline.

Job description and benefits

Please download the job description and our attractive benefits package.

Primary location of role and hybrid working

This role is primarily based in our London or Sheffield offices. Our hybrid working model allows you to work up to 3 days per week at home.

When applying

We hope you choose to apply for this role. To support your application, you’ll be asked to submit your anonymised CV and a supporting statement. Please refer to the essential criteria on the person specification and clearly provide as much information as you can with examples, to demonstrate how and where you meet the criteria. If you’ve any immediate questions please contact the Breast Cancer Now Recruitment team.

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

We’re committed to promoting equity, valuing diversity and creating an inclusive environment – for everyone who works for us, works with us, supports us and who we support.

Closing date: Monday 29 September 2025

Interview date: 6 & 7 October 2025

We reserve the right to close this advert early. Therefore, to avoid disappointment please submit your application as soon as possible, if you’re interested in this opportunity

Are you a highly organised, approachable, and motivated by work that makes a difference?

Do you have recent experience in an office-based role and an interest in working within a faith-based environment that supports young people to thrive?

If this sounds like you, our client would love to welcome you as their new Part-Time Admin Assistant.

You will play a vital role in keeping the office running smoothly, providing reliable admin support to the Operations Manager and Charity Directors. This is your opportunity to use your skills in a values-led environment, where your contribution will directly support education, growth, and community wellbeing.

The Contract

Hours: 25 hours per week
Location: Forest Gate
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £27,300 – £30,940 PA Pro Rata
Work pattern: 5 hours per day (on-site; hybrid options may be reviewed after probation, with potential for some home working)
Start date: September 2025

About the organisation

This faith-based organisation has a long tradition in education and community life. Rooted in Catholic values, the culture is centred on respect, service, and shared purpose. Staff are asked to engage with and respect the organisation’s ethos, and an interest in faith and community life will help you feel at home here.

As the Part-Time Admin Assistant, you will…

• Be the friendly and reliable first point of contact in the office
• Keep accurate records, policies, and systems up to date
• Support meetings through minute-taking and document preparation
• Update the website and social media with news and information
• Welcome and coordinate international visitors
• Assist with events and organisational activities

Essential criteria – what you’ll bring

• To succeed as a Part-Time Admin Assistant, you will need:
• Proven recent experience in an office-based role
• Strong ICT skills, with confidence using Microsoft Office and digital systems
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• A calm, respectful, and professional approach when working with colleagues, partners, and visitors
• Attention to detail and accuracy, ensuring admin tasks are completed to a high standard
• A collaborative mindset, with the ability to work independently and take initiative
• An interest in faith, values, and community life, with openness to working in a Catholic context

Desirable qualities

• Confident using social media to create posts or adapt content for websites
• Flexible and proactive in supporting others and managing priorities
• Keen to engage with the organisation’s culture and ethos

How to apply

If you are looking for a meaningful role where your organisational skills and interest in faith can make a genuine difference, apply today to join our client as a Part-Time Admin Assistant. We are reviewing CVs as they come in and would be happy to share the full job description and discuss the role further.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.

Join Our Mission to Protect Wild Fish and Their Waters!

Are you passionate about making a real difference for aquatic wildlife? We'd love to hear from you!

WildFish is a charity committed to conserving wild fish and their precious aquatic habitats. We're excited to offer an opportunity for someone eager to develop their campaigning skills while creating meaningful change for water-dependent wildlife.

We're Looking For: Off the table Campaigns Assistant.

We're searching for an enthusiastic and well-organised Off the table Campaigns Assistant to join our dynamic campaigns team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated individual to contribute to our high-impact campaigns as we enter an exciting new chapter in our work to address the environmental challenges posed by salmon farming. Off the table is a campaign asking chefs, diners and food lovers to stop serving and eating farmed salmon.

What We're Looking For:

• Someone with a genuine passion for protecting wild fish populations and aquatic environments, preferably living in Scotland!
• Strong organisational skills and a proactive approach
• Enthusiasm for learning and growing in the campaigning field
• Eager to amplify important environmental messages
• Experience in the hospitality sector (desirable)
• Experience in social media community management (desirable)

What You'll Be Doing:

• Supporting Our Community Outreach:
• Helping with the day-to-day admin that comes from our Off the table stakeholder outreach and community mobilisation efforts
• Support with planning, organising and running engaging events that bring people together to progress our campaigns

Your Daily Tasks Will Include:

• Campaign Administration: Managing email inquiries with care and maintaining our OTT directory and CRM systems
• Event Support: Handling the planning and logistics for both online and in-person events
• Community Connection: Reaching out to hospitality sector partners and community activists; social media community management,
• Desk-based research to identify chefs and restaurants to join the campaign
• Supporting WildFish with its broader campaigns and goals

What We'd Love You to Bring:

• Experience with project and time management
•  Strong communication skills - whether you're writing, speaking, or listening
• A background in customer service, supporter relations, or volunteer coordination
• Comfortable with updating websites and digital databases (don't worry, we'll support you!)

What You'll Gain:

You'll be supporting vital work that connects communities with conservation efforts, helping build a movement of people who care about protecting wild fish and their habitats.

We Celebrate You - Whoever You Are!

At WildFish, diverse perspectives make our conservation work stronger and more effective. We warmly welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented communities in the conservation sector.

Here's the thing: If you're reading this and thinking "I don't tick every box, but I care about this work" - we want to hear from you! Your unique experiences, fresh ideas, and genuine passion for protecting aquatic environments matter more to us than a perfect match on paper. We're committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their best work to protecting wild fish and their waters.

Ready to dive in and make waves for wildlife conservation? We can't wait to meet you - exactly as you are!

Team Assistant, Community Impact 

Our Organisation & Culture:

The Royal Foundation is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and to ensuring a positive, safe, and respectful environment which promotes the wellbeing and dignity of our employees, partners, suppliers, and those whose interests we represent.

We are committed to promoting a positive and inclusive working environment that has a diversity of people and views, and one that supports our culture of collaboration and curiosity. These principles underpin our professional behaviour and are embedded in our policies, procedures, day-to-day practices, and external relationships. We therefore welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds.

At The Royal Foundation, we understand the importance of balancing work with family and other commitments. We’re proud to support our team members with flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working, to help you thrive both professionally and personally.

This role requires you to work three days a week in our office based in London to foster collaboration and teamwork, with the flexibility to work two days from home. We’ll work with you to ensure the days in the office align with team priorities while supporting your personal needs.

We’re committed to being a family-friendly employer. Whether it’s adjusting start and finish times for school runs or supporting you with caring responsibilities, we’re open to discussing how we can best accommodate your situation while meeting organisational needs.

 

Community Impact Programme

The Royal Foundation's Community Impact programme seeks to mobilise unique coalitions to help communities foster greater social connection, support and develop local community spaces where people can come together to create opportunities and improve access to activities.

The Prince and Princess of Wales want to support the people in places with the potential to revive communities where it’s needed most, celebrating and championing the most inspiring, boldest and bravest individuals across our four nations who are determined to build a better life for themselves, each other, their communities and society, and who by doing so, inspire others to take action in their local area.

Role description and core responsibilities 

The role holder will work within the Community Impact team, supporting the day-to-day coordination and delivery of community-based projects and initiatives. They will operate in a highly collaborative environment, working closely with colleagues across the team to ensure smooth and effective programme delivery. Reporting to the Project Manager, they will bring strong organisational, administrative, and communication skills to support the operational and logistical needs of the programme.

This role requires a proactive and detail-oriented individual who can manage multiple tasks simultaneously, maintain accurate records, and contribute to a positive team culture. The role holder will also liaise with internal and external stakeholders, helping to ensure that programme activities are well-organised, documented, and aligned with strategic objectives.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Management of logistics, including travel arrangements and staff accommodation
• Assisting in organising relevant programme and stakeholder meetings and events; team diary management internally and externally, helping to prepare and circulate meeting agendas, papers and minutes; managing meeting logistics.
• Managing regular team meetings, including scheduling, capturing notes/actions and supporting the team in tracking these to completion.
• Helping to prepare programme-related updates, reports and briefings for internal and external stakeholders. 
• Updating and maintaining databases and customer relationship management systems (CRMs), including Monday . com and Salesforce.
• Supporting the events team on an ad-hoc basis with event planning and logistics
• Wider TRF support where required, including supporting the delivery of the Carol Service

Relevant knowledge and experience

• Experience of a not-for-profit organisation or projects
• Previous experience of supporting projects and/or events
• Highly competent user of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
• Experience of working in a busy environment
• Experience of successfully dealing with stakeholders at different levels
• Ideally experience of, or willingness to learn, using database and email software e.g. Salesforce, Zkipster
• Strong administrative skills and organisational abilities.​

Personal qualities

• Caring, thoughtful and efficient
• Passionate and driven to make a positive impact on the world
• Strong self-motivation and flexible team player
• Is solution-focused and pre-empts problems by seeking guidance and taking action on an issue, task or project within their role
• Flexible and able to respond positively to an ever-changing environment, prioritising work effectively
• Shows initiative and takes responsibility for own workload
• Absolute discretion in dealing with sensitive and confidential paperwork
• Always learning: a self-starter, motivated, eager to learn
• A people person, able to work closely with multiple stakeholders internally and externally

The Royal Foundation is a high-profile organisation, and the successful candidate will appreciate the importance of discretion and confidentiality and have a mature and professional approach.

This post is subject to receipt of two satisfactory references and right to work in the UK.

Application Instructions

To apply for the role please send:

• A Cover letter (one page) explaining your motivation for applying for the role and what skills and experience you will bring to the role and the Foundation.

• Your CV (max two pages)

The Royal Foundation is an equal opportunities employer and therefore is committed to promoting equality of opportunity and diversity and to tackle any forms of discrimination within our working environment, whether on grounds of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender re-assignment, disability, age, class, religion or belief. These principles underpin our professional behaviour and are embedded in our policies, procedures, day-to-day practices and external relationships.  We therefore welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds.

Job Title: Team Assistant

Reports to: Project Manager

Location: Central London – Hybrid 60% Office, 40% Working from Home

Contract type: 18 months FTC

Salary: £25 -30k

Hours: 37.5 hours per week (Monday – Friday)

Holiday: 25 days per annum plus public holidays

Benefits: Pension scheme (non-contributory), private medical insurance, life insurance, season ticket loan

Are you an experienced Executive and Board Assistant looking for your next challenge? 

Do you want to work for an exciting organisation with a mission to enable people, places, and the planet to flourish?

The Opportunity 

We’re looking for our new Executive and Board Assistant who provides high-level administrative and organisational support to the Executive Leadership Team and the Board of Trustees. This role ensures the smooth running of Board and Committee meetings, governance processes, enabling effective decision-making, compliance with statutory obligations, and strong communication between executives, trustees, and stakeholders. 

Acting as a trusted point of coordination, the role balances strategic awareness with attention to detail—supporting the delivery of the RSA’s organisational priorities while upholding the highest standards of governance and integrity. 

This role is based at RSA House in London for at least three days per week, with hybrid flexibility for the remaining days.

A successful candidate will: 

• Coordinate meetings of the Board of Trustees and sub-committees, including scheduling, preparing agendas, collating and circulating papers (via Convene), and minute-taking (using AI, at times). 
• Provide proactive administrative support to the Executive Leadership Team as required, including diary management, meeting preparation, and travel arrangements. 
• Organise the annual programme of meetings of the main Board and its Sub-Committees, including an annual general meeting, annual Board Away-Day and other key events. 
• Work with key stakeholders across the RSA including our Chair of Trustees, Sir Loyd Grossman CBE 

If you're excited about working within growing communities and making a tangible impact, we’d love to hear from you. 

To find out more about this role, please download the job description on the vacancy page. 

Apply 

In order to apply, please click ‘quick apply’ on our recruitment page and submit your CV. You will also be required to answer a series of questions. You do not need to submit a cover letter. 

Please submit your application through the RSA website. We cannot accept applications via email. All applications will receive an automated response. 

The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 26 September 9am. However, screening and interviews will be ongoing, so we may close the vacancy early if sufficient exceptional candidates apply.  Please get your application in as soon as possible. 

Please note that we cannot accept late, incomplete applications, and we can only consider candidates who apply through the online application process. 

Inclusion Statement 

As a social change organisation, we believe everyone, regardless of visible or invisible difference, should be welcomed to participate in creating a better future.

We aspire to maximum inclusion in our work and endeavour to challenge systemic inequity and all forms of discrimination.  We therefore welcome applications from everybody who is committed to our vision and values and can demonstrate the skills, competencies and experience required for the role applied for.

Read full our commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion on our website.

About Us 

We are the RSA. The royal society for arts, manufactures and commerce. Where world-leading ideas are turned into world-changing actions. We’re committed to a world that is resilient, rebalanced and regenerative, where everyone can fulfil their potential. 

The RSA has been at the forefront of significant social impact for 270 years. Our proven change process, rigorous research, innovative ideas platforms and unique global network of changemakers, work collectively to enable people, places and the planet to flourish. We invite you to be part of this change. Join our community. Together, we’ll unite people and ideas in collective action to create opportunities to regenerate our world. 

We offer great benefits, including 30 days holiday (plus bank holidays), additional wellbeing allowance, free fellowship throughout employment and lots more! Read our full list of benefits on our website. 

Assistant Manager – Surbiton (Part Time)

Job description and person specification

Imagine being told that you, or someone you love, is losing their sight. In that moment, two profound questions demand urgent answers:

· Can this be stopped?

· How will I live my life?

Currently, research into preventing and treating sight loss is chronically underfunded, receiving a mere 1.2% of publicly funded health research grants: people who are blind or vision impaired are three times more likely to experience loneliness and isolation than the general population.

We find and fund the brilliant minds and bright ideas that put change in sight. Our researchers are at the forefront, making breakthroughs and discoveries that will prevent, treat and cure eye disease. The partnerships we build and initiatives we support are changing life for blind and vision impaired people.

We are Fight for Sight: we won’t stop until we: Save Sight. Change Lives.

We have a clear ambition and have the support of well-respected and highly engaged ambassadors. We are now looking for experienced, committed, and creative individuals to join our dynamic team to help realise a new five-year growth strategy. You’ll be part of something impactful, we’d love to hear from you.

We are now looking for experienced, committed, and creative individuals to join our dynamic team as we devise and launch a new five-year strategy. You’ll be part of something impactful, we’d love to hear from you.

The Assistant Manager will play a crucial role in the future growth of our newly merged charity and the impact that we can achieve through partnership for people with sight loss.

Responsible to

Commercial Manager

Direct reports

Immediately responsible for recruiting and developing a team of dedicated volunteers. In due course the role and responsibilities may grow in line with organisational growth and priorities.

Working hours and contract

Permanent, part-time

21 hours, 3 days per week but flexible over a seven-day rota

Salary

£15,124 PTE,

Location

Surbiton

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a covering letter with subject header – Assistant Manager – Surbiton (Part Time)

Your covering letter should include a supporting statement (max two pages) comprising why you think you are an ideal candidate for the role, what applicable experience you’ll bring and why you want to work for Fight for Sight? 

Closing date for applications: Rolling

Early applications are encouraged. We will be interviewing on a rolling basis; therefore, we will close the vacancy as soon as we have found the right candidate.

Important note: All applicants must have the Right to Work in the UK. Unfortunately, we do not have a sponsoring license for non-UK employees which means that if you do not have a current, valid UK working permit, please do not apply, as we will not be able to consider your application.

Role Responsibilities

Purpose of Job

· To coach, lead and manage a team of volunteers

· Drive sales performance to exceed targets, maximising cost efficiency

· Maximise shop profits through delivery of the retail strategy, including income, gift aid donor sign up and conversion, donations and other income generators.

· To achieve compliance with relevant regulation e.g., health and safety and safeguarding, whilst adhering to all policies and procedures

· To promote strong relations within the local community to enhance the profile and good name of the charity

Main Responsibilities

· To deliver shop income plan

· To achieve gift aid income objectives, donor sign up and conversion. Improving processes to deliver maximum value, coaching colleagues to success

· To support and manage volunteer pricing to ensure items are processed in line with policies and procedures, recognising and thanking the team for their contribution

· To develop a culture of ownership and follow up within own team and volunteers

· To adhere to safe, legal & secure requirements and standards for the shop, both front and back of house

· To induct, train and coach new colleagues, as evidenced through induction paperwork and development plans

· To role model and promote effective team communication, celebrating success and sharing best practice

· To liaise closely with the Warehouse Manager, Volunteer Manager and Commercial Manager

· To role model exceptional customer service to supporters and donors, providing feedback in a timely manner

· To ensure the highest standards of customer care and service are demonstrated by self, line reports and volunteers

· Promote, monitor and act on internal and external customer feedback

· To evidence effective local networking to generate donations and volunteer engagement, including local business and other stakeholders

· To monitor and check security of stock and debrief variances with the Commercial Manager

· To proactively assess own development needs and seek out development opportunities to enhance contribution to Retail objectives and operations

· To take ownership of good housekeeping for all areas of responsibility

· To accept responsibility and carry out any other task commensurate to the role

Person specification:

Skills, knowledge & experience

Sales and Profit

· Monitor and be accountable for sales and category performance, as well as ensure that the team are aware of and engaged in the shop’s financial performance

· Foster a creative and entrepreneurial shop environment where team members seek to maximise income in new and innovative ways both within the shop and through a variety of channels, such as community events

· Manage the team to maximise income from Gift Aid on donated products

· Ensure that all of Fight for Sight’s financial procedures are adhered to and executed in a timely fashion by the shop team

Shop Floor

· Ensure sourcing sufficient levels of donated stock locally in collaboration with the shop team

· Establish efficient and commercially successful stock processing systems (such as pricing, quality standards, consumer safety, stock density and culling stock), including backroom systems and ensure these are adhered to by the volunteer team. Ensure that all legal and Fight for Sight’s internal regulations regarding donated stock are adhered to

· Inspire the team to provide a great customer and donor experience, which enables Fight for Sight to attract new supporters every day. Ensure that feedback, including complaints are escalated to the Area Manager within the agreed timeframes

· Empower the team to create original, appropriate and commercially successful visual merchandising displays, including shop windows

· Make sure that all procedures for the sale of new products are followed by the volunteer team (if applicable)

· Work with the Commercial Manager to ensure our shops are in good condition, maximise their potential and are fit for purpose

· Provide a safe and healthy working environment and ensure that all team members are aware of and operate within Fight for Sight’s health and safety policies and procedures, including waste management and customer safety

Leadership – Volunteers

· Recruit, induct, and retain an inclusive and diverse volunteer team, which is large enough in numbers and capable to maximise the shop’s income and profitability and guarantee the smooth running of the shop.

· Maintain an empowered, well trained, motivated and engaged volunteer team with excellent levels of communication at team and individual level.

· Connect the volunteer team with Fight for Sight’s work and help them to understand the value of their contribution

Leadership - Paid Staff

· Recruit, induct, and retain an inclusive and diverse volunteer team, which is large enough in numbers and capable to maximise the shop’s income and profitability and guarantee the smooth running of the shop.

· Maintain an empowered, well trained, motivated and engaged volunteer team with excellent levels of communication at team and individual level.

· Connect the volunteer team with Fight for Sight’s work and help them to understand the value of their contribution.

Management - being part of Fight for Sight

· Play active part in the charity, including attending and contributing to all-staff meetings

· Play a key role in enabling the shop to represent Fight for Sight and increase the knowledge of the local community about our mission and work

· Be accountable for the integration of the shop into the local community in collaboration with the shop team

· Empower the team to respond to all appeals and fundraising opportunities.

· Adhere to and enforce Fight for Sight safeguarding policies.

Other

· Required to adhere to Fight for Sight’s mission and values

· Understanding of and commitment to adhere to equality, diversity, and staff health and wellbeing principles

Personal qualities

· The ability to work under pressure whilst remaining calm and organised

· To be receptive to change and to act as a change agent

· The ability to maintain excellent rapport with staff, volunteers, supporters, and donors

· To demonstrate a calm and logical approach to problem solving

· To consistently demonstrate a dedicated approach to the quality of customer service and team working.

· Comfortable working in a small team both strategically and operationally

· Commitment to teamwork, business partnering and a collegiate approach – with a ‘can do’ attitude and a sense of humour.

· Able to provide positive, dynamic, tenacious and flexible leadership at all times.

· Results-driven, able to measure and quantify own outcomes.

· Adaptable to changing landscape and evolving organisation.

· Willing and able to operate at pace in an organisation going through rapid change, using your initiative and delivering to tight deadlines

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills

· Highly organised with ability to plan effectively and allocate resources appropriately.

· An understanding of and commitment to London’s blind and partially sighted people.

Flexibility

The role description is a general outline of duties and responsibilities and may be amended as we grow. The post holder may be required to undertake other duties as may be reasonably required from time to time.

Employee benefits

We value our staff and volunteers and want to make sure that they are supported in their work. Other benefits we also offer are:

· A great team and a supportive culture

· Employer pension contributions matching up to 10%, and death in service cover

· Generous parental leave

· Flexible/hybrid working options

· Apprenticeships scheme, study leave and financial support for training & development

· Cycle to work scheme, eye test vouchers, and a staff loan scheme, access to an Employee Assistance Program

· An active Social Committee and staff events

Application & Interview process

See above (page 2) for How to Apply. Please note that we value the authenticity and individuality of our applicants and believe that your CV and cover letter should reflect your unique skills, experiences, and personality. Therefore, please refrain from using AI tools, including ChatGPT, to produce your application materials. Applications drafted with the assistance of AI will be automatically rejected.

Successfully shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview online via MS Teams.

Accessibility

We believe in fostering an inclusive environment where all individuals, regardless of their abilities or circumstances, feel supported and valued. If you have any accessibility requirements or specific needs that you would like us to accommodate during the application process, please let us know. If you are unfamiliar with MS Teams and would like to familiarise yourself with the platform before the interview, we are more than happy to arrange a tech run-through to ensure your comfort and confidence.

Equal opportunities, diversity & inclusion 

Don’t meet every single requirement? At Fight for Sight we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workforce, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every item in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles that we have.

We have an inclusive and accessible recruitment process, including any adjustments required to support people from diverse community groups.

Other information

We draw your attention to some important policies that govern the research that our charity funds. You can find these on our website.

The Vacancy

Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) is a faith-based humanitarian relief and development organisation working to save and transform the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable people.  Established in 1984, with an active presence in over 45 countries, we strive to make the world a better and fairer place for those affected by poverty, conflict and natural disasters. IRUK’s focus is strengthening effective funding, mobilising for change through advocacy and awareness-raising, and strengthening programme development and delivery. IRUK works with various partners and institutions, from governments, non-governmental organisations and local authorities to grassroots communities.

Islamic Relief UK (IRUK) is recruiting for the position of ‘Supporter Relations Assistant’ to be based from its Waterloo Office, London. This position is being offered on a fixed-term contract basis for 6 months. The organisation is currently operating to a hybrid working model.

To manage IRUK’s switchboard and phone enquiry system and to administer the entry of data on the fundraising database. This will include processing donations, updating supporter details, maintaining supporter records, and ensuring that information held is accurate, appropriate and up to date.

The successful candidate must have:

• Demonstrable experience in a similar role
• Experience of using databases
• Excellent customer service experience
• Experience of working with sensitive information
• Experience of and passion for, delivering excellent supporter care
• Good levels of computer skills with experience of working with databases and competent in Microsoft Office applications such as Word and Excel.
• Fast and accurate data entry skills
• Good standard of numeracy
• Proven administrative skills
• Excellent communication skills by phone, email, and post
• Experience of delivering timely and accurate responses
• Experience of multi-tasking and effectively prioritising workload. Ability to work in a methodical manner with attention to detail
• Must be a team player as well as being able to work on own initiative
• Strong empathy for the aims and work of Islamic Relief
• Knowledge of Data Protection Act/GDPR

For more information, please click on the Documents tab above to view the full Job Description.

If you are talented, reliable, service-minded, resilient and a highly motivated professional looking for a meaningful career, with a strong commitment to IRW’s mission and values of sincerity, excellence, compassion, social justice and custodianship, please apply by completing our online application form.

For more information on the excellent company benefits we offer our employees, please visit our website.

PLEASE NOTE: Interviews are expected to take place on an ongoing basis until a suitable appointment is made. We therefore may close the advert sooner than the advertised date.

Pre-employment Checks:

Any employment with Islamic Relief will be subject to the following checks:

• screening clearance
• proof of eligibility to live and work within the UK
• receipt of satisfactory references

Please note, for UK-based roles, we are only able to accept applications from candidates who are eligible to work in the UK. We are unable to progress applications which would require sponsorship.

Our values and commitment to safeguarding

IRW is committed to preventing any type of unwanted behaviour at work including sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse, lack of integrity and financial misconduct; and committed to promoting the welfare of children, young people, adults and beneficiaries with whom IRW engages. IRW expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct. We place a high priority on ensuring that only those who share and demonstrate our values are recruited to work for us.

The post holder will undertake the appropriate level of training and is responsible for ensuring that they understand and work within the safeguarding policies of the organisation.

All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks, which can include criminal records checks. IRW also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme.

In line with this Scheme, we will request information from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment.

By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures.

Islamic Relief is an equal opportunities employer

You will work with the Assistant Principal Learner Services to define, articulate and
implement our shared vision and values of the college to support learners with additional
needs in achieving their expected outcomes. You will also work with the Dean of the
Apprenticeship programme to ensure adult learners with additional needs are supported by
teaching staff and in their work placements.

You will hold a key role in the college and are expected to demonstrate outstanding skills in
working with the leadership team, parents and carers, external agencies and learners to
implement the strategic vision of the college, working with these individuals and groups to
ensure we provide a high quality of education to our learners with additional needs.

You will be accountable for ensuring that exam access arrangements are organised to meet
the needs of learners, annual reviews are completed for learners with EHCPs, ALS with the
Apprenticeship team and work alongside the pastoral team and teaching staff to implement
and make them aware of training and teaching strategies that support learners with
additional needs, and that reasonable adjustments for these learners are in place. In addition
to help administer the high needs funding claims with the Assistant Principal and Finance
department and MIS.

Key Responsibilities:

● Strategic Leadership

○ Develop and implement a comprehensive ALS strategy aligned with the
college’s vision and values.
○ Oversee the effective allocation and utilisation of resources, including High
Needs and EHCP Funding.

○ Monitor and evaluate the impact of ALS interventions and initiatives, driving
continuous improvement.
○ Foster a culture of inclusivity and support for learners with additional needs.
○ Collaborate with the Senior Leadership Team to advocate for SEND provision
and secure necessary resources.

● Operational Management

○ Line supervise the work of a team of 4 Learning Support Assistants, providing
guidance, support, and performance feedback.
○ Oversee the day-to-day operations of the ALS team, ensuring efficient and
effective service delivery.
○ Co-ordinate the allocation of caseloads and workload distribution within the
team and creating support plans
○ Develop and implement robust systems and processes for identifying,
assessing, and supporting learners with additional needs.
○ Ensure compliance with relevant SEND legislation, Policies and regulations.

● Collaboration and Partnership

○ Work closely with the Assistant Principal Learner Services, the Dean of the
Apprenticeship programme, and other key stakeholders to ensure a cohesive
and coordinated approach to SEND provision.
○ Build and maintain strong relationships with external agencies, including local
authorities, health professionals, and specialist support services.
○ Engage with parents/carers, providing regular communication and
opportunities for involvement.

● Staff Development

○ Lead and facilitate professional development opportunities for the ALS team,
ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to support learners
effectively.
○ Foster a culture of continuous learning and development within the team.

Essential:
○ Proven experience in a leadership or co-ordination role within a SEND or ALS
context.
○ Be educated to Level 3 standard.
○ In-depth knowledge of SEND legislation and best practices.

○ Strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing learners with
additional needs in a further education setting.
○ Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
○ Ability to lead, motivate, and inspire a team.
● Desirable:
○ Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent teaching qualification.
○ Experience working in a further education college.
○ Knowledge of the digital skills sector.
Leadership and Coordination – the ability to demonstrate:
● Genuine passion and belief in the potential of every learner
● An educational vision aligned with the college’s high aspirations
● Clear strategies for establishing consistently high standards of results and behaviour in
complex inner-city schools and a commitment to relentlessly instilling these
● Versatility to adapt your style in circumstances where an alternative approach is needed
● Effective line management of a range of people – coaching and motivating them to achieve
excellent results in their roles
● A desire to innovate and try new approaches, being reflective and learning from mistakes
● An ability to give feedback in a constructive and, where needed, challenging way
● An ambassadorial approach in all dealings with the community and subsequently to be
positive in successfully marketing the college in the community
● Strong interpersonal, written and oral communication skills
● Strong organisational skills which includes the ability to delegate, prioritise and use effective
time management
● Resilience and motivation to stay positive and focus on key priorities during times of
challenge
● Confidence and effective presentation skills during assemblies, parents and carers events and
other public speaking opportunities
● A willingness to work flexibly and where necessary outside of normal working hours

We have an exciting opportunity for a Service Delivery Assistant to join the Safer Space Plus team in London, working 18.75 hours a week.

Working from the office one day a week with the remaining hours to be agreed with the successful candidate to include some evenings.

Do you want to make a difference every day? Do you want to contribute to change & improvement for those who need it?

Do you have resilience & adaptability? Can you work effectively with a focus on customer service and care?

If yes, then we'd love to hear from you…

What we offer

At Victim Support, we are committed to attracting and retaining the best talent. Our competitive rewards and benefits package includes:

• Flexible Working Options: Including hybrid working.
• Generous Annual Leave: 28 days plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 33 days plus Bank Holidays, with options to buy or sell annual leave.
• Birthday Leave: An extra day off for your birthday.
• Pension Plan: 5% employer contribution.
• Enhanced Allowances: Enhanced sick pay, maternity, and paternity payments.
• Exclusive Discounts: High Street, retail, holiday, gym, entertainment, and leisure discounts.
• Financial Wellbeing: Access to our financial wellbeing hub and salary-deducted finance.
• Wellbeing Support: Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support.
• Inclusive Networks: Access to EDI networks and colleague cafes.
• Sustainable Travel: Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loans.
• Career Development: Ongoing training and support with opportunities for career progression.

About the Role

As a service delivery assistant you will be:

Supporting the service manager to provide a high quality service to victims of domestic abuse.
Be the initial point of contact for families referred into the service, completing initial risk and needs assessments over the phone
Providing information, advice and guidance to those families you engage with
Maintaining clear and accurate records within our case management system
Working with sensitive, confidential and secure data

You will need:

• Effective verbal/written communication and numerical skills.
• Experience of working in a client focused service area or setting.
• Experience of working and adhering to policies, processes and procedures.
• Understanding and knowledge of the requirements relating to safeguarding, confidentiality and data protection.
• Understanding and knowledge of equal opportunities and diversity.
• Good understanding and knowledge of office systems and business support functions.
• Ability to prioritise own workload and deal with competing demands in an organised and methodical manner.
• Excellent IT skills and experience of using all packages in the standard Microsoft Office suite and case management systems/databases.
• Excellent customer service skills with the ability to communicate sensitively and effectively both verbally and in writing with a wide range of individuals and audiences.
• Ability to work on own initiative and with minimal supervision to achieve deadlines.
• Excellent record keeping skills with a focus on quality and accuracy.
• A team player with a flexible working approach.

About Us:

Victim Support (VS) is an independent charity providing a range of specialist services to people who have been affected by crime across England and Wales. We work towards a world where there are fewer victims but who have stronger rights, better support and a real influence in the Criminal Justice System. Everyone at VS is driven by our Vision Ambitions and Values to play their part in making a difference for those who experience crime and traumatic events. Working for VS gives you the opportunity to play a key role in a national charity providing high quality services to victims and witnesses and being a vital force for change.

Victim Support are committed to recruiting with care and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Background checks and Disclosed Barring Service checks may be required.

Victim Support strives to represent the diverse communities we serve and are passionate about creating an environment where all staff and volunteers feel respected and heard. Being a diverse organisation with an inclusive culture is integral to us being able to meet our aim of ensuring that anyone who is a victim of crime gets the support they need.

As part of our commitment to the Race at Work Charter we particularly welcome applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. VS is also a Disability Confident Employer and we provide a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates that are disabled and meet all essential criteria for a role.

If you have a disability, a learning difficulty such as dyslexia or a medical condition which you believe may affect your performance during any aspect of our selection process, we'll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform at your best.

How to apply:

To apply for this role please follow the link below to the Jobs page on our website and complete the application form demonstrating how you meet the essential shortlisting criteria.

We look forward to hearing from you.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date.

If you have already registered & started an application, then we will contact you to advise of the amended closing date wherever possible.

Early Literacy Interventionist (North London)

• £16 per hour

• Working across two schools -  20 hours per week, over 5 days per week, so 4 hours per day

• Contract to July 2026 (with the possibility of extension, funding permitting)

Are you looking for a new challenge? Are you keen to work with children to support and develop their phonics and reading skills? 

38% of children from disadvantaged backgrounds leave primary school in England each year unable to read to the expected standard. Chapter One is a fast-growing charity, with a vision of a world in which all children have the literacy skills they need to thrive. We work to ensure that all children have 1:1 reading support at the time they need it most.

Our Early Literacy Intervention (ELI) programme (based on a model that serves 20,000 children successfully in the USA) provides daily, 1:1, 7 minute phonics sessions for children who are behind in phonics. Using a bespoke technology tool, a trained Early Literacy Interventionist works individually with target children. 

This ELI role, reporting to the Schools Development Manager, is a great opportunity for someone who wants to develop and grow their knowledge of phonics and/or their teaching skill set. It is ideal for someone with previous school experience who is looking for a new and exciting challenge.

You will conduct initial baseline assessments and then deliver differentiated, 1:1, targeted, 7 minute phonics sessions to pupils using a systematic, synthetic approach. Although you are employed by Chapter One, you will work closely with the school team to understand the progression of the school’s phonics teaching; establish tailored plans for each child and feedback on pupil progress. Using your knowledge and insight, you will also collaborate with colleagues at Chapter One to further improve the ELI model, the online tool and programme delivery.

Please read the full job description for details of the responsibilities of the role, and our employee recruitment pack to learn more about Chapter One. 

This is a part-time role, based across two primary schools in North London. One school is Millbrook Park CE Primary School, NW7 1JF and the other is The Devonshire Hill Nursery and Primary School, N17 8LB. Our preference is for a candidate who will work across both schools, travelling between them in the middle of the day. However, if you are only interested in working 10 hours per week in one school then please state this in your application.

Closing date for applications: Sunday 21st September at 9pm

Interview date: Thursday 25th September

Chapter One is committed to safeguarding children and young people. All post holders are subject to a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service disclosure. Copies of our Safeguarding Policy and Safer Recruitment Policy are available on request.

As a charity that values and celebrates people's diversity and champions opportunities for all young people, we are keen to receive applications from people who have experienced disadvantage and from those who are of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities who are currently underrepresented in the organisation. We believe that a diverse organisation is one that is more innovative, more creative and gets better results.