Executive assistant to the chief operating officer jobs

As Chief Executive, you will lead the staff team, be responsible for providing overall strategic direction, coordination and management of all CAP programmes. Partnership building is a key role to maximise our impact.

Church Action on Poverty is a medium sized social justice charity, with a vision for the UK to become a country where everyone can flourish free from poverty. We are an ecumenical organisation with a Christian ethos and roots in the churches who remain key partners for us. We support programmes across the UK improving the lives of people in poverty and create opportunities for those with lived experience to voice their concerns with the aim of educating the public to raise awareness and understanding in line with our charitable objectives.

Currently, our programmes are structured on the principles of dignity, agency and power. They comprise: supporting a network of 130 food pantries with a membership of over 50,000; enabling people with lived experience of poverty to speak truth to power and supporting churches to explore what it means to be a ‘church on the margins’ as well as playing a leading role in high profile national campaigns.

It is anticipated that the role will be varied and flexible, but will include:

• Assisting the CAP Council of Management in the development and implementation of the organisation's programmes, campaigns, partnership building and public affairs work. 

• Managing CAP's staff and resources in line with the organisation's agreed policies and priorities, and core values of collaboration, participation and empowerment. 

• Fundraising and organisational strategy to achieve our aims.

• Ensuring that people with lived experience of poverty are actively involved in all aspects of CAP's work. 

• Leading and line managing the Senior Leadership and Management Team.

• Working with the whole staff team to develop and implement strategies that build dignity, agency and power to end poverty.

Key responsibilities 

1. Supporting CAP's Council of Management in its governance function

• Maintaining regular contact with the CAP Chairperson and Officer Group. 

• Providing regular written reports to CAP's Council of Management and attending all meetings of the CAP Council of Management and Officers Group. 

• Agreeing and implementing an annual planning cycle with the Council of Management, in line with CAP’s strategic values and vision.

• Working with the chair and officers to ensure good governance of the organisation. 

2. Ensuring the effective management of CAP's staff team by: 

• Providing day-to-day management and support for the Senior Management and Leadership Team. 

• Holding oversight of the policies and procedures of the organisation and ensuring that they are up to date and fit for purpose 

• Setting the culture of the organisation, with a focus on promoting collaborative working, learning and staff wellbeing. 

3. Finance and fundraising

• Setting a clear, viable organisational and financial strategy and implement through

• Fundraising and relationship building to secure the resources needed for the programme work and campaigning.

• Formulating appropriate applications for programme funding.

• Providing resources for donors and churches to organise fundraising.

4. Programme Development

Leading the process of programme development within CAP in order to: 

• Promote new approaches to combating poverty, which build the dignity, agency and power of people and communities struggling against poverty. 

• Ensure that programmes have clearly identified aims, objectives and methods and that projects are monitored and evaluated. 

5. Partnership Building
Building partnerships and contribute to the shared leadership and development of a movement based on dignity, agency and power with people and struggling communities against poverty, by

• Working with a wide range of partners and people with lived experience, to connect and build networks of people and groups who are committed to challenging poverty.

• Ensuring that CAP works collaboratively, leading CAP's involvement in strategic coalitions, alliances and other movement building opportunities.

• Ensuring CAP’s work is informed by the insights of people with lived experience of poverty, as well as wider public policy, debate and research. 

• Ensuring that CAP’s views are shared with government, politicians, churches and others, where possible, led by people with lived experience of poverty.

6. Membership and supporters
Working with CAP’s Communications and Supporter Relations manager to ensure the recruitment and retention of members, donors and supporters by ensuring that: 

• CAP members are provided with regular mailings and appropriate support for local/national activity. 

• Ensuring that requests from CAP members and others for information and support are dealt with appropriately. 

• Overseeing resources for Challenge Poverty Week and Poverty Sunday

7. Public Profile
In collaboration with CAP's Council of Management and staff, ensuring that CAP maintains a high profile within both the church and secular media, including: 

• Ensuring CAP contributes effectively to public and media debate, including mainstream secular and church media, TV, radio and new/social media etc.

• Prioritising opportunities for people with lived experience to act as spokespeople and the public face for CAP.

• Attending and speaking at appropriate conferences and events making sure that CAP is represented at key events.

• Representing CAP views to national, regional and local government.

8. Theological Development
Facilitating the development of theological and other resources which reflect 

• the lived experience of people and communities struggling against poverty, biblical sources, personal faith and other theological writing.

• wider analysis of social, political and economic issues.

Accountability and relationships 

The Chief Executive is accountable to the elected Council of Management. Regular contact is maintained with the Officers Group, and in particular the Chair.

The Chief Executive provides line management to the other members of the Senior Leadership and Management Team, and works closely with other members of the CAP staff team, and external partners. 

Other details about employment

Duration: Permanent contract with six month probationary period.

Hours: 35 hours per week including occasional 'unsocial' hours, weekend working and overnight travelling for which Time Off in Lieu is provided.

Salary: Church Action on Poverty Salary Band L, starting at scale point 43 on the NJC scales (currently £52,805 pay award pending).  Rising by increments after 3 years and every 2 years thereafter to point 46 (currently £56,073), paid monthly on the 14th day of each month.

Pension: Church Action on Poverty operates the Nest auto-enrolment pension scheme, and contributes a 10% employer contribution provided the staff member commits to making a 5% employee contribution. 

Benefits: Simply Health Cash Plan, Working from Home allowance, Employee Assistance Programme, Cycle to Work Scheme, Staff Expenses Debits Cards, National Gym and Partner Discounts.

Holidays: 25 days’ annual leave pro rata (30 after five years’ service) plus statutory holidays. Office closure over New Year period on top of annual leave.

Location:  Hybrid working on a flexible basis from home with some time each week in the Manchester office. 

No CVs or other attachments please, only applications using our standard application form (available to download above) will be considered.

As Portsmouth Cathedral continues its journey of growth and expansion, we seek a CFO who will not only ensure financial oversight and compliance but also drive strategic initiatives to foster financial sustainability. Your expertise will be instrumental in solidifying the Cathedral’s financial position, optimising its resources, and advancing our service to the community.   

Following the implementation of the Cathedrals’ Measure 2021, and the registration of Portsmouth Cathedral as a charity in March 2024, the new role of Chief Finance Officer, funded by the Cathedrals Sustainability Fund, will support Chapter, the Cathedral’s governing body, in offering strategic financial leadership. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the CFO will be part of the Senior Management Team (SMT) and will manage a small team and will oversee the operational processes and functions, and communicate the necessary assurances, information and reports to the Senior Management Team, Chapter and the Board of our to be established trading company periodically. This will involve communicating complex financial ideas and information to a range of stakeholders (mostly non-financial).   

The successful candidate will be CAEW, ACCA or CIMA Qualified or similar and be able to show continued professional and personal development .  They will have:

•  Demonstrable experience in strategic financial leadership, with a track record of leading financial governance, compliance, and team development.   

• Strong knowledge of VAT, tax planning, and advanced accounting practices.   

• Excellent verbal and written communicator with an enthusiastic can-do approach and the ability to convey complex financial information to diverse stakeholders clearly and effectively.   

• Experience of dealing with colleagues, trustees and stakeholders.  

• Excellent analytical and reporting skills, proficient in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite.   

• Familiarity with a multi-fund accounting software   

• Empathy with the ethos of the Church of England. 

They will be:

• Commited to upholding the highest standards of safeguarding practice.

• Commited to equal opportunties and inclusivity and at ease when working at all levels. 

• Self-motivated.

• Highly collaborative and have excellent interpersonal skills including warmth, tact, diplomacy, discretion and imagination.

• Meet the standards required to pass a Fit and Proper Persons test. 

Safeguarding

The position is subject to a Basic DBS check as well as the ongoing safeguarding training provided by the Church of England and Diocese applicable to this role.

Benefits

• Annual leave allowance of 27 days per annum (FTE) plus public holidays
• Employer pension contributions of 7.5% plus employee contribution.
• Commitment to professional development and training
• Cash health plan

Portsmouth Cathedral is an Equal Opportunities Employer and a member of Inclusive Church.  

Role Context and Purpose

Following recent and projected growth of the organisation, Gaddum is looking to recruit additional resource within the Central team to bolsters its support to the organisation ensuring delivers safe and high quality services.

The post holder, line managed by the Finance and Resources Director will join the finance team and play a crucial role in the day-to-day financial administration of the charity. You will also play a key role in improving our financial systems and process as we continue to grow. This is a 35 hours per week role, working flexibly and hybrid to suit the needs of the organisation and individual.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

General

• Ensure robust financial administration of all supplier payments and funder receipts including all entries into accounting system to relevant programme and project budgets and the subsequent filing of all payment documentation.

• To provide a professional and comprehensive service in dealing with finance queries raised by suppliers, customers and funders Accounts Payable

• Ensure goods and services invoiced have been ordered and charged in accordance with the approved purchase order • Raise regular BACs payments, ensuring all creditors are paid in accordance with internal policies

• Fulfilling orders and booking requests using company credit card on an adhoc basis

• Record all transactions on SAGE

• Reconcile the creditors account on a regular basis Accounts Receivable

• Ensure all invoices are processed in line with requests

• Record all receipts in SAGE

• Manage credit control function, ensuring that all debts are received in line with internal policies and procedures

Cash Management & Bank

• To oversee the distribution of petty cash when required and reconcile receipts

• Perform bank reconciliation on a regular basis and ensure all payment information is updated

• To support the Finance Assistant (Trust and Grants) in periods of absence

Other Duties and Responsibilities

• To meet regularly with Finance & Resources Director for supervisions

• Undertake additional duties within competence of post holds as required by the Finance & Resources Director

• Flexible approach to working patterns and in-office working days.

The details contained in this job description, particularly the principal accountabilities, reflect the content of the job on the date the job description was prepared. It should be remembered, however, that it is inevitable that over time, the nature of individual jobs will change; existing duties may be lost, and other duties may be gained without changing the general character of the duties or the level of responsibility entailed. Consequently, this job description may be revised from time to time.

All staff are expected to work within all Gaddum policies and procedures. This role is subject to a basic DBS check. 

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

We’re recruiting for a team co-ordinator to support our busy legal, compliance and governance team and to support the good functioning of our team. Working with us will provide wide experience of how a busy and efficient in-house legal team deals with contracts, compliance, policies, processes and communications. There’s scope for the right candidate to take on more responsibility for  project work. We’ll provide a good quality handover as there’s many processes that you’ll need to understand and manage.

About you

You’ll need excellent Microsoft 365 skills, particularly in word, outlook, teams and excel. You should have a great eye for detail, be efficient, proactive and accurate. Experience of organising meetings and minute-taking would be an advantage. You should be able to manage your own workload, maintain your own to-do lists, organisational registers and respond to requests in a timely and efficient manner. You’ll be able to maintain confidentiality and understand its importance. You should have a commitment to building and maintaining excellent personal relationships with colleagues across the organisation.

Job description and benefits

Please download the job description and our attractive benefits package.

Primary location of role and hybrid working

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

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: Thursday 22 May at 9am

Interview date:  Tuesday 3, and Wednesday 4 June 2025 (in person at our London office at The White Chapel Building E1 8QS)

Local Government Scale SO1 SCP23 – 25 £35,377.47 to £36,662.63 pa inc

London Weighting

Fixed Term contract to 31st March 2026 – May be extended subject to funding (plus 6% contributory pension. 35 hours per week).

Due to the immediate need for this post we will be interviewing suitable applicants as they are received.

The Care Navigator will support those with long term conditions to access timely care and community support services. Working closely with Camden GP practices and Integrated Care Teams is required as is accurate record keeping using IT systems. Through timely intervention and care co-ordination, unnecessary hospital admissions, GP appointments and residential placements will be reduced.

The successful candidate will come from an information/advice, social care or health background, must be computer literate, and have excellent people and communication skills, and able to work in a multi-disciplinary team. Experience of person centred planning is required. It is important that a candidate promotes a culture that values, protects and uses information for the success of the organisation and benefit of its clients/patients. For this role it is essential that you to have the ability to travel across Camden as the role involves visiting clients in their own homes. This is a full time role with no job share opportunity and works out of GP practices in Camden. AUC offers a contributory pension, and season ticket or bicycle loan facility.

Closing date: Rolling recruitment

Interview date: TBC

As part of the application process please submit a CV and Covering letter, demonstrating how you meet the shortlisting criteria in the Person Specification. Please also complete and return the criminal convictions declaration form.

Age UK Camden is an Equal Opportunities and London Living Wage Employer. Registered Charity No. 293446

Doorway has operated across Warwickshire since 1997 providing a range of services for young people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Our key objectives are:

· To prevent youth homelessness and the exclusion that embeds it.

· To increase access to safe and secure accommodation for young homeless people to alleviate homelessness and exclusion.

· To promote a personalised approach to young people’s housing and personal development needs.

· To influence policy that affects homelessness and excluded people.

We are proud to have worked with so many fantastic young people by listening to them and offering appropriate advice, support and wellbeing options as well as accommodation.

Doorway is seeking an exceptional and inspiring leader with the following:

· experience in successfully balancing the strategic and operational leadership responsibilities

· ability to manage high performing teams of staff and volunteers

· a good knowledge of housing and homelessness, local authorities and the charity sector

· able to develop strong and lasting relationships with a broad range of stakeholders, including young people who are at the heart of our service delivery.

· senior experience in an organisation of similar scale and complexity

· sound financial and commercial acumen with a track record of identifying and securing funding

Above all else, you will be intrinsically values driven and aligned to our purpose and culture. You will demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion along with a passion for tackling social injustice.

This is an exciting new role for hte Trust as it seeks to uplift and empower the people of Evesham in Worcestershire.

The Trust has secured funding for a new COO who will support, encourage, lead and develop the Trust into our next chapter.

We are an established Community Centre with a brilliant, dedicated and highly motivated small staff team with lots of volunteers.  We have a wide range of commumity centre users, and estblished partnerships and networks.  The Trustee body have recently set a new Vision and Priiorites process; and we are working with a community research body and fundraising strategy.  Our new COO will work to support and develop all this towards a sustainable future.

Part of this new role will be to support one of our key projects become an independent charity in their own right; and to work on the vision for social housing/supported housing locally with linked buildings in the HIgh Street.

Further information is in the Job Pack.

Executive Assistant & Head Office Administrator

Part time Job Share, 3 days per week

£28,000 - £30,000pa (pro-rated to £16,800 to £18,000) + benefits

Leatherhead, Surrey

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity enables families who have a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness to make the most of time together, providing expert, practical and emotional support, where they need it for as long as it is needed.

This role will provide proactive and efficient administrative and operational support to the Senior Leadership Team and the Board of Trustees, whilst observing the strictest confidence. Provide proactive and efficient administrative support at the Head Office. The Senior Leadership Team comprises the Chief Executive, Director of Care Services, Director of Finance and Operations, Director of Fundraising and Engagement and Director of HR & Volunteering. The role is responsible for a wide range of cross-organisational tasks and projects as directed and will be part of a job share arrangement, working 3 days per week. The post holder will live the Rainbow Trust Values and effectively communicate with all stakeholders, over the telephone, online, by email and face to face.

About the role:

This Best Companies Top 100 mid-sized company and Top 20 charity is looking to appoint an Executive Assistant to provide proactive and efficient administrative and operational support to the Senior Leadership Team and the Board of Trustees, whilst observing the strictest confidence. This is a part time job share role, working 3 days per week.

Reporting to the Chief Executive you will be responsible for a wide range of cross-organisational tasks and projects, including leading on general operational issues at Head Office including franking machine, stationery orders, cleaning materials, managing and monitoring switchboard voicemail messages, sign-in sheets, shredding, parking etc. You will act as key point of contact for Trustees and a wide range of external contacts, maintaining a professional, confidential and responsive approach.

Having worked in an administrative support role, you will have exceptional organisational skills and will support the Senior Leadership with their day-to-day activities, including the monitoring the progress of their various projects and organising, as required, internal and external meetings for each SLT member including sector-wide meetings.

What we’re looking for:

A co-operative working style – you’re able to work well with others, communicating clearly and consistently with your job share partner, and you thrive working at a steady pace with a desire and willingness to help others

A confident user of MSOffice and experience of managing multiple diaries and priorities – you’re efficient and organised, produce high quality accurate work, are able to carry out instructions carefully and respond promptly to enquires.

Strong verbal and written communication skills and a team-oriented focus

Patient and consistent – you have better-than-average attention to detail and accuracy, even with repetitive work, and make cautious decisions within clear guidelines

Applications will be particularly welcome from those who have volunteered or worked in a charity, are educated to A level or equivalent and have previously worked in a busy administrative office, in a role that provides support to multiple people.

What we offer:

We have a range of fantastic benefits that we offer our employees, this includes:

· Flexible working hours to balance home and working life

· Employee Assistance Programme with access to remote GP, counselling, physiotherapy, resources to support your mental health and financial wellbeing, as well as a 24/7 helpline via Help@Hand

· 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays – rising to 26 days after 1 year, 27 days after 5 years and 30 days after 11 years, with an additional 5 days to use in your 10th or 20th year of service (pro rata for part time)

· Company car for front line care posts

· Time off in lieu

· Access to the Blue Light Card Scheme, and other rewards and discounts

· Bike to work, season ticket loan and payroll giving schemes

· Family friendly policies, focused on employee wellbeing, and an active cross-organisational wellbeing group running a number of initiatives throughout the year

· Pension scheme where we contribute 5% of your salary and you contribute at least 3%

· The option to buy/sell annual leave, as well as additional leave for your birthday, wedding/civil ceremony and an extra half day off for Christmas shopping

· Robust training and development programmes to support your learning and growth

· A recommend a friend recruitment referral bonus scheme

If you’d like to find out more about working with us, please click here. More information can also be found in our Candidate Pack.

How to apply:

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter highlighting why your application should be considered above others to us via the link.

Closing date: 25 May 2025

Please disclose in your cover letter if you have used AI for any part of your job application.

Interviews will take place at our Head Office in Leatherhead with the dates to be confirmed. We will only contact those applicants who have been successful.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert early.

An enhanced DBS disclosure will be required for this post.

Rainbow Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment.

Rainbow Trust is an equal opportunities employer and a Best Companies One-Star rated organisation, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds. Registered Charity No: 1070532

About Kinship

We are Kinship. The leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We’re here for kinship carers – friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren’t able to. 

Together, let’s commit to change for kinship families.

About the role

This role will support Kinship to operate as an effective charity by ensuring effective day-to-day operations and seamless delivery of the People function at the charity.

You will bring your People leadership experience, attention to detail and excellent communication skills to the role. You will be structured in your approach to ensure that day-to-day issues are handled while also working to improve processes and systems. You will be credible with senior management and able to articulate and balance the trade-offs of a People leadership role.

You will be able to balance multiple competing priorities and prioritise effectively, A positive mindset is key to being part of the team, as is thinking creatively to problem solve and being empathetic to colleagues. You will be highly motivated by our mission, recognising that excellent internal People processes are essential to allowing others to effectively complete their roles and achieve our mission.

You will be a powerful ambassador for our mission, credible with other HR and CSR professionals working to implement kinship friendly employer policies and processes.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Work with the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and the Executive management team to design, develop and embed a high-quality HR function to support the employee life cycle.

• Responsible for ensuring all policies, procedures, and processes relating to people and culture, work effectively, efficiently and in line with legal requirements.

• Responsible for all People matters, ensuring they are handled fairly and consistently in line with policies and procedures.

• Support and advise line managers on People, EDI and change management activities, including promotions, disciplinary, capability and grievance procedures.

• Organise line manager training to ensure line managers understand their responsibilities and apply policies consistently.

• Responsible for the candidates’ recruitment experience. Ensure candidates receive a consistent and professional recruitment experience.

• Responsible for job descriptions, person specifications, recruitment packs and job adverts.

• Ensure offboarding processes are robust and implemented consistently to safeguard the charity’s assets and to comply with Data Protection rules.

• Lead on the delivery and growth of the ‘Kinship Friendly Employers’ scheme, driving growth in the scheme and the number of bronze, silver and gold partners

• Ensure Kinship role models ‘Kinship Friendly’ employment practices and seek opportunities to share these as examples with other HR professionals.

• Support fundraising efforts with corporate supporters who are ‘Kinship Friendly Employers’

Essential criteria includes:

• HR qualification or significant demonstrable experience.

• Coaching qualification or significant demonstrable experience.

• Demonstrable experience of supporting the development of a high-quality People function within a growing organisation.

• Demonstrable experience working in a changing and flexible organisation.

• Demonstrable problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities.

• Demonstrable knowledge of best practices, employment laws, and regulations.

• Effective communication skills.

• Strong interpersonal skills – a genuine team player able to relate to a wide range of people.

• Ability to work on own initiative and manage own workload.

• Demonstrable experience of EDI principles.

Desirable experience includes:

• Personal experience of kinship care.

• Experience of working in a dynamic and fast-changing workplace.

• Exceptional business-partnering skills

What we’ll offer you 

Kinship offers 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time) as well as a generous pension scheme. We have an excellent wellbeing offer including the Employee Assistance Programme and clinical supervision. We will invest in your professional development with training and career development opportunities.

Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion.  We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams.  We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us. 

This is a fantastic time to join a supportive and well-established team within an organisation with rapid growth ambitions. This role will be what you make it and we’re looking for someone to seize this opportunity!

How to apply

Please apply via Charity Job with your CV and a cover letter of no more than 2 pages. Please include your notice period and earliest availability to start in your cover letter.     

• Application deadline:  Thursday 22 May, 9am
• First interview:                 29 May - 2 June
• Second interview:            TBC

Kinship reserves the right to close applications early on receipt of sufficient applications. Apply early!

Start date:  Mid-August 2025 (subject to Enhanced DBS Check and satisfactory references).

Salary: £36,411 - £38,261 per annum, pro rata.

Hours: 35 hours a week, with some flexibility possible.

Contract: This is a 9 month maternity cover contract, with possibility of extension to 12 months

Place of work: To work flexibly at CARA premises across mid and north Essex, including Braintree, Chelmsford, Clacton, Colchester, Harwich and Dunmow, with some remote home working.

Holiday: 25 days per year pro-rata, plus additional closure days between Christmas and New Year.

To apply: Please complete the application form, which can be downloaded from our website, explaining how your skills and experience relate to the person specification. 

Applications must specifically address each essential and desirable criteria, giving evidence from previous experience or qualifications.

Application deadline:  10am, Monday 2nd June 2025 

Interviews:  Monday 9th June 2025 

Start date: Mid-August, subject to receipt of satisfactory references and enhanced DBS check.

Mandatory Training Dates: To be confirmed.

This post is restricted to women applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1.

Job Description

The role of CARA’s Child and Young Person’s Practice Manager is to lead CARA’s teams of Young Person’s Practitioners and Child and Family Practitioners and manage the provision of specialist sexual violence counselling for young people, play therapy and support for parents and carers.  The post holder may hold a small caseload of clients and undertake some assessments, but the main emphasis of this role will be on the management, support and coordination of the team.

This is a varied and interesting role, giving the post holder opportunity to lead a talented and committed team of practitioners.   As well as overseeing day-to-day operations of the team, the post holder will be part of CARA’s management team and will have the opportunity to play a key role in CARA’s wider development, working closely with the CEO and Deputy CEO.   The post holder will work with our sister centres, SERICC and SOS Rape Crisis to gain an understanding of Child and Young Person’s services across Essex and coordinate these as appropriate.   

Main Responsibilities

Leadership and Management

• To manage all operational aspects of CARA’s Child and Young Person’s Practice, including overseeing the delivery of our specialist young person’s counselling service, play therapy and support for parents and carers.    This may also include managing any new Child and Young Person’s Practice projects that CARA develops.

• To work in accordance with CARA’s policies and procedures and embed a feminist approach in CARA activities.

• To co-ordinate, review and develop effective processes within the Child and Young Person’s Practice, working closely with the Deputy CEO, the Young Person’s Practitioners and the Child and Family Practitioners.

• To line-manage a team of Young Person’s and Child and Family Practitioners, providing day-to-day support, monitoring performance and identifying training and development needs.   This will include keeping up to date notes of line management meetings and conducting and recording annual staff appraisals.

• Work with our Adult Practice Manager to oversee the work of a wider team of sessional counsellors, including supporting Practitioners in line managing sessional and volunteer counsellors and identifying training needs. This will include helping to co-ordinate a monthly sessional and volunteer counsellor meeting. 

• To support practitioners and sessional counsellors in maintaining up-to-date client records and ensure that gaps in data are proactively addressed, as required.

• To work with CARA’s Deputy CEO to recruit and train new staff and sessional and volunteer counsellors, as required.

• To lead regular Young Person’s Practice and Child and Family Practice meetings, producing notes to share with team members and with senior management.

• To maintain an overview of waiting lists, working closely with practitioners and with the Deputy CEO and CEO to ensure that staff and resources are deployed effectively.

• To keep up to date with relevant legislation, policy and practice issues, including BACP and child safeguarding guidance and ensure the practitioners are aware of changes.

• To liaise with CARA’s other teams and more widely with Synergy Essex teams, resolving problems and ensuring good communication and mutual understanding of respective roles and ways of operating.

• To liaise with external agencies, including children’s mental health and social care, ensuring CARA is represented at meetings as required and developing effective relationships to ensure our services co-ordinate with statutory and voluntary services.

• To be part of the CARA management team and attend regular management team meetings, contributing to CARA’s ongoing development.

Counselling and client support

• To oversee client work within the teams, working closely with all team members to resolve client issues and ensure high quality service provision.

• To undertake client assessments and make appropriate arrangements for support.

• To provide specialist counselling for young people and/or play therapy for children and support for their parents, holding a small caseload of clients.

• To keep client records up to date. 

• To work flexibly at CARA centres across mid and north Essex, providing face-to-face and remote sessions, as required.

General

• To work flexible hours, including some evening work and occasional weekends.

• To participate in CARA team meetings, supervision, training and development.

• To provide specialist advice to other workers and agencies, including participation in delivery of training sessions.

• To raise awareness of sexual violence and its impact in the community and within other agencies.

• To keep appropriate records in accordance with CARA policies and procedures.

• To adhere in full to all CARA’s organisational policies and procedures, including safeguarding procedures.

• To be administratively self-servicing.

• To report to the Deputy CEO, CEO and Trustees as required, including the production of regular written reports and verbal reports.

• To undertake any other related activities as required by the Deputy CEO, CEO or the Chair of the Board of Trustees.

About CARA 

CARA (Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse) works with victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse, providing independent, specialist support and promoting and representing their rights and needs.

CARA is a registered charity working with adults of all genders, young people and children from across mid and north Essex.  We have a head office in Colchester and outreach premises in Braintree, Chelmsford, Clacton-on-Sea, Great Dunmow and Harwich. We also provide remote services.

CARA seeks to be an inclusive organisation that actively encourages, supports and values diversity amongst both our service-users and our workers.  We wish to create a culture in which discrimination, in all its forms, is recognised and addressed.

You can read more about CARA’s commitment to diversity and inclusion here.   We encourage and welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds.

About Synergy East

CARA is part of Synergy East and we work closely with South Essex-based SERICC and Southend-on-Sea Rape Crisis (SOS Rape Crisis) to deliver the contract for the Office for the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex for services for victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse across Essex.

The Mental Health Foundation is recruiting for a Research Officer to support our team in Scotland.

Deadline: 5pm on Friday 16th May
Location: Glasgow
Salary: Starting salary £31,350
Hours: Full-time, 32 hours per week (as part of our 32-hour week pilot and may revert to 35 hours after July 2025)
Contract type: This is a fixed-term role for 18 months

This is an exciting opportunity to design and implement impactful research and evaluation projects. You will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to collect and analyse data, ensuring that our work is informed by lived experience and reflects the diverse needs of the communities we serve.

What does the role involve?​​

• Lead and support research projects, including quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis.
• Produce high-quality reports, presentations, and academic publications to share findings with varied audiences.
• Conduct systematic and pragmatic evidence reviews to inform our initiatives.
• Collaborate with colleagues in communications and policy to ensure our research drives meaningful impact.
• Represent the Mental Health Foundation at events to promote our research and vision.

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

• A degree or relevant equivalent in a relevant field with substantial research elements, or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrable skills in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Proven ability to manage research projects and deliver results on time and to budget.
• Strong communication skills to present complex concepts to diverse audiences.
• Commitment to ethical research practices and inclusivity, with a focus on addressing inequality and adversity.

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

We are unable to provide sponsorship for this post, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the UK.

About us

Since 1949, the Mental Health Foundation has been the UK’s leading charity for everyone’s mental health.

Our vision is for a world with good mental health for all. With prevention at the heart of what we do, we aim to find and address the sources of mental health problems so that people and communities can thrive.

We will drive change towards a mentally healthy society for all, and support communities, families and individuals to live mentally healthier lives, with a particular focus on those at greatest risk.

The Foundation is the home of Mental Health Awareness Week.

How to apply

If you think your skills match and you’d like to be part of a dynamic and growing organisation, please complete and submit your application form by clicking 'Redirect to recruiter'. Please note that all sections of the application form should be completed as CVs alone will not be accepted. Applications will close at 5pm on Friday 16th May and we are unable to accept late applications. Interviews are planned for Monday 2nd June.

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

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

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

We look forward to hearing from you!

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, led by our CEO, Keith Valentine, who has valuable lived experience of sight loss. We’ve secured well-respected and highly engaged ambassadors, such as Sir John Major and Frances Segelman.

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.                                                                           

As Assistant Donation Hub Manager, your primary purpose is to support the efficient and effective operation of our Donations Hub, ensuring that all incoming stock is sorted, processed, and distributed in line with the needs of our retail and ecommerce operations.

You will work closely with the Operations Manager to manage a complex and varied stock flow coming from multiple sources - including in-store donations, house clearances, home collections, corporate and community events, and direct drop-offs from the public. A key part of your role will be to ensure these donations are processed efficiently, assessed for maximum value, and appropriately segmented to drive income across our 14 shops and online platforms.

This is a highly practical and physical role that requires strong organisational skills and a deep understanding of operational logistics. You’ll be responsible for ensuring timely fulfilment of shop orders, maintaining high standards of stock quality by both sorting incoming donations from shops, allocating corporate donations and supporting the movement and dispatch of goods in a way that maximises efficiency and minimises waste.

You’ll lead day-to-day activities in the hub, supervising volunteers and working collaboratively with drivers to deliver an excellent internal service to shop teams. You will also act as a key support for community-facing donation activity - helping to deliver excellent service during home collections, managing local donor interactions at the warehouse, and assisting with the logistics of house clearances.

Flexibility will be vital, as the role will operate across a seven-day rota and may require you to deputise for the Operations Manager or drivers when needed. Experience in a charity retail setting, excellent customer service and relationship-building skills, and a general understanding of charity retail would be a distinct advantage. A full UK driving licence is also highly desirable.

This role offers the opportunity to play a key part in the growth and success of our retail network and the wider mission of Fight for Sight: to Save Sight. Change Lives.

Responsible to

Operations Manager

Direct reports

None

Working hours and contract

35 hours per week, working across a flexible seven-day rota

Salary

£25,207 per annum (London Living Wage)

Location

Attending to all the shops around London, from Hampton Hill in the West to Crouch End in the north. Our Donations Hub is currently located within West Norwood, with a second small warehouse attached to our West Norwood Shop.

How to Apply 

Please submit your CV and an up to two page supporting statement which evidences the specification with subject header - Assistant Donation Hub Manage

Role Responsibilities

· Support the day-to-day running of the donation hub, ensuring a smooth, accurate and timely flow of donations through the hub

· Oversee and participate in the physical sorting, quality checking, and categorising of stock in line with stock standards and retail priorities

· Prepare and fulfil stock requests from shops and ecommerce channels, ensuring timely and accurate dispatch

· Maintain clear, efficient systems for inventory tracking and stock distribution

· Deputise for the Operations Manager as required, supporting wider operational priorities

· Ensure all machinery and warehouse equipment is fit for purpose, reporting faults and maintaining safety standards

· Coordinate with drivers and retail staff to organise timely deliveries, collections, and transfers between locations

· Step in to cover driving duties as required (subject to driving licence)

· Load vans safely and efficiently, ensuring optimal routing for stock movement

· Maintain roadworthiness and cleanliness of retail vehicles, completing regular checks and liaising on repairs or servicing

· Support waste management processes to reduce landfill and maximise recycling or resale potential

· Supervise, train, and support volunteers in daily warehouse activities, including sorting and logistics

· Create a positive, inclusive environment where volunteers are valued, recognised, and supported

· Define clear volunteer tasks and responsibilities in line with operational needs

· Assist in volunteer recruitment and onboarding in partnership with the Volunteer Engagement Manager

· Deliver excellent internal service to retail shops and ecommerce, responding to stock needs and changes with flexibility

· Provide a professional and friendly experience for public donors during drop-offs, collections, or house clearances

· Support and represent Fight for Sight during home collections and local engagement initiatives

· Promote and encourage donations through strong community-facing presence and service

· Ensure the Donations Hub operates in line with all health and safety standards, including proper manual handling, use of equipment and fire safety

· Carry out regular H&S checks, reporting hazards and ensuring safe working practices

· Adhere to data protection, safeguarding, and secure stock handling procedures

· Ensure all practices within the hub are in line with Fight for Sight’s Safe, Legal & Secure requirements

· Contribute to data tracking on stock volumes, processing times, and donation sources to help drive improvement

· Contribute to achieving KPIs related to stock value, waste reduction, ecommerce contribution, and volunteer hours

· Work with the Operations Manager to identify opportunities to improve donation hub processes, stock handling efficiency, and volunteer engagement

· Provide feedback and insights to the Operations Manager to support continuous improvement

Other

· Keep up to date with developments in the sector and key new initiatives in our field. 

· To work at all times in compliance with the Fundraising Regulator’s Code of Practice and data protection legislation.

Person specification

Desirable skills, knowledge & experience

· Previous experience in a warehouse, stockroom, logistics or charity retail environment

· Demonstrated experience in leading or supervising volunteers or small teams

· Excellent organisational and time management skills

· Ability to prioritise workload in a busy environment with changing demands

· Comfortable with physical work including lifting, sorting and operating equipment

· Strong IT skills (Microsoft Excel, Word, ability to learn existing systems)

· Managing multiple workstreams and deadlines.

Qualifications

· Full UK manual driving licence

· GCSE C or equivalent in Mathematics and English

Personal qualities  

· An understanding of and commitment to the sight loss community

· Strong verbal and written communication skills

· Flexible, motivated, and able to manage a varied workload with a practical, can-do attitude

· Personable, with excellent listening skills

· Calm under pressure and solution-oriented

· Commitment to excellent customer service and volunteer experience

· Excellent accuracy and attention to detail

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

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

· 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 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 TBC

The interview process is planned as follows: TBC

· 1st Interview: TBC

· 2nd Interview and an informal meeting with trustees and colleagues: TBC

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 and Vision Foundation 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.

Role Purpose

This is an exceptional opportunity to join the Royal Hospital Chelsea as Assistant Director of Audience Engagement on a fixed term contract to cover maternity leave.  A core focus of the role is to develop the Royal Hospital Chelsea into a national heritage destination while ensuring our community of veterans remains at the heart of everything we do.

During this fixed term contract, you will be responsible for delivering our public engagement strategy, and drive visits to, and engagement with, the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s heritage, supporting sustained and manageable footfall and increased income through public programmes, secondary spend and commercial visitor opportunities.  

You will oversee the successful delivery and operation of the new Visitor Centre within the recently restored Soane Stable Yard, ensuring the visitor experience both onsite and digital is inspiring, inclusive, and impactful. You will also lead our contribution to the Chelsea Heritage Quarter, including co-delivering the annual Chelsea History Festival, working alongside key partners: the National Army Museum and Chelsea Physic Garden.

This role carries senior leadership responsibility, including line management of a talented team covering public programmes, community engagement, visitor experience, and retail. You are also responsible for managing RHC’s relationship with a café concession. You will work closely with colleagues across the Royal Hospital Chelsea and externally to grow our public reach and income potential, positioning the Royal Hospital Chelsea prominently within London’s cultural landscape and the wider heritage sector.

About You

We are looking for an inspiring, strategic leader with a proven track record in the heritage, museums, or visitor attraction sector. You will bring significant experience in audience engagement or similar roles, including at least five in a senior leadership or management capacity. You will be adept at developing and delivering public-facing programmes, and leading a high-performing, multidisciplinary team.

The successful candidate will be a creative thinker with excellent communication skills, a strong grasp of commercial opportunities, and the ability to develop inclusive strategies that attract core, target, and hard-to-reach audiences.

About Us.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea, home of the iconic Chelsea Pensioners since 1692 provides both sheltered accommodation and full nursing care for up to 300 retired British Army veterans.

The ethos of the Royal Hospital is one that puts a premium on selflessness and companionship.  Our values of nurturing belonging, respect individuals, encourage pride and enjoy life underpin that ethos. We are united in a shared purpose, living and working together and ensuring everyone has a place in our diverse social and military community.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea is dedicated to equality, diversity, and inclusion, where all backgrounds and abilities can reach their full potential. We pride ourselves on attracting a wide range of talent, removing potential barriers, and promoting equal opportunities. We know, the more varied and inclusive our teams are, the better our organisation will be for our community. We are a Disability Confident employer dedicated to hiring diverse talent and ensuring you are treated with respect throughout the recruitment process and upon joining our community.

Our selection process.

Should your application be successful you will be invited to a formal interview, where you will be asked questions relating to your experiences and key requirements of the role. If you are successful after the interviews, we will:

• Ask for references from those you have listed on your application form
• Check your right to live and work in the UK
• Check any declarations you have made on your application form
• Ask you to complete a medical form
• Carry out an Enhanced DBS application.

The Finance Assistant will play a key role in supporting KCLSU's finance operations, maintaining strong financial controls, and ensuring accurate financial reporting across the organisation.

Main Tasks

• Process and reconcile purchase invoices, sales invoices, and supplier payments, maintaining accurate ledgers.
• Reconcile daily income from multiple systems to banking records and update the finance system accordingly.
•  Support month-end processes, including bank reconciliations, journal postings, and assisting with management accounts.
• Assist with reconciling Balance Sheet accounts, investigating and resolving discrepancies.
• Generate financial reports and data extracts from the finance system to support financial reporting.
•  Support the maintenance of internal financial controls and ensure compliance with relevant financial procedures and regulations.
• Respond professionally to financial queries from staff, students, and suppliers, providing accurate and timely information.
• Other finance-related ad hoc tasks

General Responsibilities
• Support the efficient operation of the Finance Department, ensuring organisation and professionalism. Provide cover for colleagues where necessary, contributing to a cohesive team environment.
• Develop a strong understanding of Finance Business Partnering, providing financial advice and insights to internal budget holders, aiding informed decision-making and improved financial performance.
• Lead or contribute to projects supporting the implementation of KCLSU’s Finance Strategy, driving process improvements and strategic initiatives.
• Maintain compliance with KCLSU’s financial regulations, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of financial operations.
• Deliver excellent customer service to both internal and external stakeholders, addressing finance-related queries and providing accurate, timely information.
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of financial systems, ensuring sound financial controls and best practices are in place.
• Represent KCLSU professionally, supporting its objectives and upholding its positive reputation.
• Adapt flexibly to evolving responsibilities, assisting with tasks that support the wider needs of the organisation.
• Collaborate across departments, adopting a team-oriented approach to support the overall functioning of KCLSU.

Other Responsibilities
• Assist in the delivery of finance systems and procedures training for over 400 student groups, ensuring they have the necessary tools and knowledge to manage their finances effectively.

Working Hours
• The role requires 35 hours per week. On occasion, working hours may exceed this, including evening or weekend work to meet deadlines. These additional hours are included in the role's grading and contract.

Additional Information
• This job description is accurate as of 28th April 2025 and outlines the core responsibilities of the role. It is intended to assist both the post holder and KCLSU in understanding the position’s primary duties.
• The description is not exhaustive, and duties may evolve over time. The post holder may be required to work at various King’s College London sites.
• KCLSU operates a hybrid working policy, requiring employees to work in the office at least once a week and five days per month.
• KCLSU reserves the right to vary the duties and responsibilities after consultation with the post holder.
• Please note that the starting salary for this role is £31,041 with annual increases.

Candidate Specification

Qualifications
• A finance-related qualification (such as part-qualified Chartered Accountant or equivalent) is highly desirable, with at least two years of relevant finance experience, ideally within a student union or higher education environment, though other sectors will be considered.
• Alternatively, candidates with strong hands-on financial experience in a similar setting, or who are working towards a finance qualification, are also encouraged to apply.

Experience
• Proven, hands-on experience working with integrated accounting systems.
• Demonstrable experience managing all aspects of financial operations, including accounts payable, receivable, reconciliation, and financial reporting.
• Experience in finance business partnering or providing financial advice and support to non-finance staff is highly desirable.
• Experience in presenting financial information clearly and effectively to senior management is desirable.
• Any experience in treasurer or fund investment management is an additional advantage but not essential.

Knowledge
• Solid understanding of accounting concepts, financial reporting, and VAT regulations, ensuring compliance and accurate financial operations.
• A working knowledge of data protection requirements, particularly in the context of a membership organisation, is beneficial.

Skills
• Excellent multitasking ability and a keen eye for detail, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Advanced IT skills, including proficiency with Excel (intermediate to advanced), and strong Office 365 competency to produce reports and manage data efficiently.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact diplomatically with staff, students, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently under pressure, demonstrating initiative and a solution-oriented approach to problem-solving.

The list above is not exhaustive. We recommend that you read through the Job Pack to understand the scope of what the role entails.

Application Process

To apply, please visit our website, download and complete the application form and the equal opportunities monitoring form below and email your completed application directly to our HR email address.

Once shortlisting is completed, we will contact you and inform you of your progress.

At KCLSU Equality, Diversity and Inclusion are at the heart of everything we do and we endeavour to ensure equal treatment of all candidates. We welcome a diverse range of applicants and are open to discussing flexibility with the right candidate. Reasonable adjustments will be made for candidates with disabilities at all stages of the recruitment and selection process, and to ensure that a successful candidate with a disability can undertake the post.

As you will also see on our Job Pack that we are an equal opportunities employer and live by our 4 main values: Inclusive, Collaborative, Open and Brave. KCLSU is a fun, social and flexible work environment which offers opportunities for development as well as great staff benefits.

Benefits of Working for KCLSU include:

• Hybrid Working Policy 
• Pension Contribution
• Interest Free Season Ticket Loan & Computer Loan
• Cycle to work Scheme
• Enhanced Sick Pay
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay
• Eye Tests & single focal glasses allowance
• 25 days holiday entitlement & bank holidays & discretionary closure days per annum
• Discounts on KCLSU venues
• Employee Assistance Programme
• "No meeting Friday" ethos
• KEATS Learning Platform & LinkedIn Learning subscription
• Death in Service
• Access to Kings Libraries

Eligibility 

To be eligible to apply for this role you must: 

• Be eligible to work in the UK, and provide proof of this (i.e. a passport/visa) prior to your start date. Please note that KCLSU is unable to provide a visa sponsorship.
• Not be a trustee of King’s College London Students’ Union 
• Have a National Insurance number, or be in the process of applying for one

Thank you for applying with us. We look forward to bringing your talent onboard and working with you!