Executive director jobs

The People Matter Trust is a Christian Charity based in Eastbourne helping job seekers reach their full potential.  The organisation gained the Queens Award for Voluntary Service in 2022 and is Matrix accredited.  The Board of Trustees are seeking to recruit a Director of Operations to take up a position that will become vacant due to retirement during the second half of 2026.  The post will be full time (35 hours per week).

This key senior management role is responsible for the operational delivery of services, in line with the Christian ethos and values of People Matter. The Level 6 CIAG (or equivalent) qualified post-holder will hold responsibility for overseeing the delivery, management and reporting of funded contracts, managing the team of advisers, and overseeing all Careers, Information, Advice and Guidance services.

The salary for this post is £36,000 per annum.

Under the 2010 Equality Act, schedule 9, there is a genuine occupational requirement for the Senior Management Team (CEO and Director of Operations), and Board of Trustees to be practising Christians, to ensure the protection of our strong Christian ethos and values.

People Matter is an inclusive employer.  However potential applicants should be aware that our office premises are located on 2nd floor of a multi-occupancy building with no lift and we are unable to accommodate wheelchair users.

Closing date for receipt of applications is midnight on Friday 3rd July 2026

Interviews will be held during the period 20th to 21st July 2026.

Purpose of the role

As Deputy CEO of Leeds Older People’s Forum, you will play a pivotal leadership role in driving our mission to ensure older people in Leeds have the opportunities, choices and support they need to live the life they want. 

Working closely with the CEO, you will shape organisational strategy, influence policy and system change, and build strong partnerships with decision‑makers, funders and our third sector member organisations. 

What’s involved? 

The Deputy CEO will support the CEO drive LOPF’s mission and lead delivery of its key outcomes for older people in Leeds. The role combines strategy, influence and leadership, including:

• Shaping and delivering LOPF strategy and developing new ideas that improve the lives of older people.

• Influencing policy and system change by building strong relationships with decision‑makers and ensuring the third sector has a voice at city‑wide boards.

• Supporting and strengthening our third sector members through learning, grant‑making, network support and helping members access funding.

• Responsibility for managing staff, budgets, projects and funder relationships.

• Ensuring impact, keeping work aligned to LOPF’s priorities and involving older people and member organisations in everything we do.

Skills and experience

The skills and experience we are looking for include:

• Senior leadership experience with strong strategic thinking and decision‑making skills.

• Excellent relationship‑builder able to influence policymakers, funders and partners.

• Strong understanding of the third sector and the diverse needs of older people.

• Proven operational management, including staff leadership, budgets and project delivery.

• Confident communicator who can represent LOPF and engage stakeholders effectively.

• Change‑focused mindset, able to innovate, improve and respond quickly to emerging issues.

• Values‑driven, with a genuine commitment to improving life for older people.

Please note this role is fixed term until March 2028 subject to identifying further funding

Join us at a pivotal moment of change and opportunity

This is an exciting time to join the League Against Cruel Sports.

Under new leadership and with a refreshed strategic plan, we are embarking on an ambitious new chapter - strengthening our impact, growing our reach and building an organisation fit for the future.

Recently recognised as a Sunday Times Best Place to Work, we are proud of our people-first culture, our commitment to wellbeing and development, and the passion and purpose that unite our teams.

If you are an experienced finance leader looking for a role where your expertise can directly contribute to creating a kinder society for animals, we would love to hear from you.

• Hours: 35 hours per week (flexible and part-time options considered)
• Salary: up to £70,200 per annum (pro-rata for part-time)
• Location: Hybrid working – Majority home based, occasional visits to Godalming office

About us

The League Against Cruel Sports is Britain's leading charity working towards a society where persecuting animals for ‘sport’ is consigned to history.

For over a century, we have campaigned for stronger animal protection laws, conducted investigations to expose cruelty and illegality, and managed wildlife reserves that provide safe havens for animals.

United by compassion and driven by evidence, we believe lasting change is possible.

Together, we will end cruelty to animals in the name of ‘sport’.

The opportunity

As Director of Finance, you will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, providing strategic financial leadership across the charity and its trading subsidiary.

You will ensure robust financial management, governance and compliance while helping shape organisational strategy and supporting sustainable growth. This role offers the opportunity to influence decisions at the highest level and play a critical role in delivering our long-term ambitions.

Leading an established finance team, you will oversee all aspects of finance operations, risk management and financial planning, ensuring our systems and processes are fit for the future.

What you'll be doing

Providing strategic financial leadership to the organisation and Board of Trustees.

• Leading budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes.
• Producing high-quality management information and financial reporting.
• Overseeing statutory accounts preparation and external audit processes.
• Ensuring compliance with charity, company and tax regulations.
• Managing treasury activities and financial risk, including fraud prevention.
• Developing robust financial systems, controls and processes.
• Supporting organisational growth and delivery of our strategic plan.
• Leading, mentoring and developing the finance team
• Working collaboratively across the organisation and with external stakeholders.

About you

You will be a qualified accountant (ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with significant senior financial leadership experience and a track record of delivering strategic and operational excellence.

You will bring:

• Strong experience in financial leadership within complex organisations.
• Expertise in management and statutory accounting.
• Experience of leading audits, treasury management and regulatory compliance.
• Outstanding leadership and people development skills.
• The ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and influence decision-making.
• Excellent judgement, commercial awareness and risk management capability.
• A collaborative and values-driven approach.
• Experience in the charity sector and knowledge of charity accounting and regulation would be highly desirable.

Why join us?

At the League Against Cruel Sports, you'll find more than a job - you'll find purpose. We offer:

• The opportunity to help create lasting change for animals.
• A supportive and inclusive culture with exceptional colleagues.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
• Generous annual leave and wellbeing support.
• Professional development and learning opportunities.
• The chance to shape the future of a respected national charity during a period of transformation and growth.
• A workplace recognised as a Sunday Times Best Place to Work.

If you are inspired by our mission and excited by the opportunity to lead finance at a pivotal moment in our journey, we would be delighted to hear from you.

If you’d like to have an informal conversation about the role, please get in touch and we will be happy to arrange a call with our CEO or current Finance Director.

Deadline for applications: Sunday 12 July 2026.

Interviews for the role will be scheduled on 22-23 July online for stage one and 29 July in person in London for stage two.

Together, we will end animal cruelty in the name of sport.

Chief Executive - King George and Queen's Hospitals Charity (KGQHC)

Location: Hybrid, with strong on-site presence
Salary: £80,000 - £100,000
Type: Full-time

About King George and Queen's Hospitals Charity

King George and Queen's Hospitals Charity plays a vital role in supporting patients, staff and communities across Barking & Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge. The charity funds projects that go beyond NHS provision - investing in equipment, innovation, environments, research and staff wellbeing to enhance patient care and experience.

Now operating as an independent organisation, the charity is entering a pivotal phase - with the opportunity to build on strong foundations, deepen community connections and significantly expand its impact. This is an opportunity to shape a growing NHS charity at a defining moment in its journey - building a confident, sustainable organisation that will improve health outcomes and experiences for thousands of people every year.

What You Can Look Forward To

As Chief Executive, you will lead the charity through its next phase of development - balancing immediate delivery with long-term strategic ambition.

You will:

• Shape Strategy and Build for the Future
• Strengthen Fundraising and Income Generation
• Lead and Develop a High-Performing Team
• Enhance Grant-Making and Impact
• Build Trusted Partnerships and Profile
• Strengthen Governance and Operations

Why This Role Matters

• Your work will have a direct and visible impact on patient care and community health
• You will build an organisation that is values-led, inclusive and sustainable
• You will operate at the heart of a complex and rewarding NHS environment
• Your leadership will leave a lasting legacy across local communities and healthcare services

About You

We are looking for a values-driven leader who combines strategic vision with a hands-on, practical approach.

Skills and Experience

• Significant senior leadership experience (CEO, Director or equivalent) in a charity, public service or similarly complex environment
• A track record of leading organisations through growth, transition or transformation
• Strong understanding of fundraising and income generation strategy
• Experience of working with Boards and governance structures
• Credibility in stakeholder management and external representation
• Financial and operational acumen, with the ability to build effective systems and infrastructure

Personal Attributes

• Strategic, thoughtful and future-focused
• Empathetic, resilient and emotionally intelligent
• Collaborative and inclusive in leadership style
• Comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels
• A strong communicator with credibility across diverse audiences
• Passionate about improving health outcomes and community wellbeing

Recruitment Timeline

To ensure equitable access to information and uphold KGQHC's commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the charity will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the Chair/Outgoing CEO. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Thursday 9th July 2026 6.30-7.30pm and we will send you a link.

Application Deadline: 5pm Monday 22nd July 2026

First Interviews: w/c 17th August 2026

Final Interviews: w/c 24th August 2026

How to Apply

Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to KGQHC on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity Peopl and request a candidate pack in the first instance.

For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People

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 we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

Director of Operations – Finance & Support Services
Dartington (& Torquay as required)
Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week, 52 weeks per year, ideally Monday-Friday 08.30-16.30
Salary: £51,663.00 - £59,597.00 per annum (DOE)

Are you a skilled operations professional with a background in finance?

We have a brand-new opportunity at Lifeworks Charity, for a Director of Operations (Finance & Support Services) to play a crucial role in our Central Support team. You will drive the sustainable growth and operational efficiency of the charity, directly contributing to our charitable impact.

You'll blend your financial expertise with your keen eye for operational oversight in this hybrid role, ensuring our resources are managed effectively to benefit the young people and families we support.

Who we are:

Since 1996, we've been empowering people with learning disabilities in Devon to achieve their dreams and build fulfilling lives. Our core values of kindness, respect, and positivity guide everything we do.

What you’ll do:

Finance

- Manage and maintain all financial aspects of the charity, including (but not limited to), budgeting, forecasting, reporting, ledgers, balance sheets, bank reconciliations, debtor accounts, cash flow management, insurances, property and procurement.
- Take a lead on the development of financial and fundraising processes and strategies.
- Manage and be the main point of contact for all aspects of ESFA and DfE funding compliance and reporting.
- Lead a small team to deliver outstanding support to the charity and act as a key financial advisor to managers across the organisation.
- Produce clear and concise monthly management accounts and provide financial insights to senior managers and the Board of Trustees.
- Working closely with external auditors, prepare and oversee our year end accounts.

Operations

- Ensure that charity governance and compliance is upheld, by contributing to record maintenance, managing registers and supporting with reviews of policies and procedures.
- Work with our external IT partners to manage our technology. You will make sure that the correct infrastructure, systems and processes are in the right place at the right time.
- Lead on IT security for the charity, implementing regular reviews to monitor compliance.
- Act as the Data Controller and manage all areas of data protection regulations, always prioritising data security.
- Develop and review charity policies as necessary, ensuring they align with best practices and legal requirements.
- Ensure compliance of Health and Safety policies, liaising with external advisors to maintain safety within the workplace.

Last but not least, we are looking for someone that is an advocate for people with learning disabilities and shares our common goal of making sure the people we support achieve their best lives with us. You may not be involved in the day-to-day work with our service users, but the work you will do is vital to the success of our charity.

What we're looking for:

You'll be a motivated and experienced professional who is passionate about making a difference. You should be:

- ACCA/CIMA/ACA part-qualified with significant experience (or fully qualified is a bonus!).
- A proven leader with the ability to inspire and develop a team.
- An expert in financial management, from budgeting to reporting.
- An excellent communicator who can clearly explain complex financial information to all audiences.
- Experienced in managing a broad portfolio, ideally including Health and Safety, IT, or facilities.
- Knowledgeable about governance frameworks and risk management.

If you are a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and a desire to contribute to a vital cause, we would love to hear from you.

We're passionate about supporting our staff just as much as we are about supporting our service users. When you join our team, you can expect:

- An hourly rate above the Real Living Wage
- A holiday entitlement of 33 days’ holiday (inclusive of bank holidays)
- A fully funded DBS check and update service to ensure a smooth onboarding process
- Access to valuable resources including an employee assistance program to support your mental and emotional health

Building a diverse and safe team:

At Lifeworks, we're committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the diversity of our community. As a Disability Confident Employer, we actively encourage applications from individuals with disabilities who meet the job criteria, and we guarantee qualified candidates with disabilities an interview.

Lifeworks is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. To achieve this commitment, we will ensure the continuous development, improvement and review of robust safeguarding processes and procedures that continuously promote a culture of vigilance in respect of safeguarding within our organisation. All staff undergo Safer Recruitment checks which include pre-employment checks, reference checks, and a DBS check with Barred List checks (where applicable).

Early applications encouraged!

This vacancy is scheduled to close on the 19th of July, but may close earlier if suitable candidates are identified. So, to ensure your application is considered, ensure you apply early!

The interview format will consist of 3 parts; a formal interview assessment, a short presentation and a Q&A with staff members. If you are selected for interview, further details will be shared ahead of the above date.

Apply today and tell us why you'd be a great fit for our team.

Please note that this role was previously advertised as Operations Manager. We ask that previous applicants of this role need not reapply.

We’d appreciate no contact from agencies regarding this role. We are only accepting direct applications.

Interim Director of Finance and Operations
London | Hybrid Working (2 days per week in the office)
3-6-Month Interim Assignment
£500-£600 per day

We are working with a respected UK membership organisation seeking an experienced Interim Director of Finance and Operations to provide strategic leadership across finance and corporate services during a key period for the organisation. 

Reporting to the Chief Executive and forming part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will lead Finance, HR, Membership, IT and Facilities, ensuring strong governance, operational effectiveness and financial sustainability.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and reporting
• Provide strategic financial advice to the Chief Executive, Board and Committees
• Strengthen financial controls, governance and risk management
• Oversee year-end accounts, audit and statutory reporting
• Drive operational efficiency and continuous improvement across corporate services
• Provide leadership across HR, IT, Membership and Facilities functions
• Support organisational development, culture and staff engagement
• Ensure compliance across GDPR, health and safety and regulatory requirements
• Lead and develop a high-performing corporate services team
• Support the delivery of strategic priorities and organisational change initiatives

About you:

• CCAB-qualified accountant
• Experienced Finance Director, Director of Finance & Operations, COO or equivalent senior leader
• Strong track record within charities, membership bodies, professional institutes, Royal Colleges or other not-for-profit organisations
• Experienced in working with Boards, Committees and Trustees
• Broad corporate services experience covering finance, governance, risk and operational management
• Commercially minded with a hands-on and pragmatic approach
• Strong leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills
• Able to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery

Previous experience within a membership organisation, professional body or charity would be highly advantageous.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a purpose-driven organisation and play a key leadership role during an important period of organisational development and change.

London-based with hybrid working, typically requiring two days per week in the office.

About Depaul International

Our vision is of a society in which everyone has a place to call home and a stake in their community. We aim to end homelessness and change the lives of those affected by it. Depaul International, made up internationally of eight member organisations, exists because we believe everyone deserves the dignity and security of a place to call home. We are committed to ending homelessness and improving the lives of the people affected by it.

Depaul International’s current six-year strategy is focussed on four key areas:

• Service: Developing evidence-based solutions to develop services to prevent and end homelessness on a local, national and global scale
• Reach: Empowering member organisations to lead services in their own countries, establishing partnerships and cross-sector working globally to strengthen capacity and scale.
• Voice: Advocating for local, national, and global responses to end homelessness
• Values: Working to strengthen client involvement and enabling our clients to influence decision making to ensure our services are welcoming, accessible and just.

The incoming Director of Finance will play a key role in delivering this strategy, providing the financial leadership needed to support international growth, strengthen resilience, and ensure sustainable impact worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead financial management across Depaul Group, supporting National Members, this includes consolidated reporting, budgeting, cashflow and audits.
• Develop and implement financial strategy, controls, policies and best practice across the charity
• Act as principal financial adviser to the CEO, Executive Team, Board and Committees.
• Provide insightful financial reporting, forecasting and risk analysis to support decision-making.
• Oversee governance, compliance, company secretarial duties and data protection.
• Lead group-wide internal audit processes and financial due diligence activities.
• Support and strengthen finance capacity across international member organisations.
• Manage key external relationships including auditors, bankers, legal advisers, investment portfolio managers, insurers and regulators.
• Pivotal member of the Executive Team, which leads the development of organisational strategy, performance and culture.
• Lead and develop the finance function.

About You

• You will be a qualified accountant (CCAB qualified or equivalent),
• You will have experience in senior leadership roles (Head of Finance, Director of Finance or similar) within the charity or wider non-profit sector
• You will have the ability to balance strategic leadership with operational delivery in a small, collaborative organisation
• You will be pragmatic and collaborative, and passionate about social justice and the work Depaul International undertakes to end homelessness.

We welcome applications from ambitious senior finance leaders who are ready to take their first step into a Director of Finance position and can demonstrate the strategic capability, leadership skills and values alignment required for the role.

Further Information

• Hybrid working of 3 days per week of central London based office
• This role will require occasional international travel to member organisation countries
• Interviews will be held w/c 13th July and w/c 20th July for first and second stage interviews respectively
• Ivy Rock Partners is working exclusively with Depaul International for this appointment.

Depaul International is a faith-inspired charity rooted in St Vincent de Paul's tradition of dignity and compassion. We welcome people of all backgrounds, faiths, beliefs and non-beliefs, working together towards a shared goal of ending homelessness and creating positive social change.

If you are looking for an opportunity to use your financial leadership skills to drive meaningful social impact on a global scale, we would love to hear from you.

For a confidential discussion, please contact Holly Arrowsmith at Ivy Rock Partners.

Deputy CEO and Creative Director Role

We are looking for a Deputy CEO/Creative Director to working alongside the CEO/Creative Director to contribute to the artistic vision, creative, entrepreneurial and strategic leadership of the charity.

For over 40 years, the organisation has co-created inclusive, artistic opportunities with diverse communities.

This work enhances wellbeing and celebrates culture and heritage. 

We call this Art for a Reason.

Position: Deputy CEO / Creative Director Role

Location: Manchester/Hybrid (3-4 days in the office, with one day being a Wednesday)

Hours: Full time, 37 hours per week

Salary: £43,869 plus a 7.5% employer pension contribution

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: Wednesday 8 July at 5pm

Interview Date: Thursday 16 & Friday 17 July

The Role

In this pivotal role, the Deputy CEO/Creative Director is responsible for working alongside the CEO/Creative Director to contribute to the artistic vision, creative, entrepreneurial and strategic leadership of the charity. Line managed by the CEO/Creative Director, you will lead on daily operations including governance, fundraising, marketing, embedding EDI across all aspects of the company’s operations and contribute to artistic programming to achieve our project objectives and strategic targets.

You will deputise as ambassador for the organisation and foster strong stakeholder relationships and will build relationships with the current major funders including the Arts Council England (the charity is not an NPO), Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and the Garfield Weston Foundation. On occasion, you may be required to deputise for the CEO/Creative Director.

About You

We are looking for a leader with a proven track record in creative/cultural leadership, who can contribute to the implementation of an artistic programme, oversee complex budgets, and foster productive relationships with a Board of Trustees. Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion are embedded in the work with communities experiencing inequality, exclusion or barriers to participation.

About the Organisation

Join a dynamic participatory arts charity based in Rochdale, dedicated to using creative practice as a catalyst for social change. For over 40 years the organisation has co-created inclusive, artistic opportunities with diverse communities that enhance wellbeing and celebrate culture and heritage.  We call this Art for a Reason. Through a range of initiatives from Art for Wellbeing to community-led festivals, the team provide opportunities for people to explore their heritage, find their voice, and experience the transformative power of the arts. The vision is for a world where everyone has access and opportunities to create, participate and belong.

We particularly encourage applications from individuals who live in Rochdale and/or identify as being of the global majority, disabled, neurodiverse and/or LGBTQ+/and or non-binary communities. The successful candidate will be offered the post subject to an enhanced DBS check and references.

You may also have experience in areas such as Programme Coordinator/manager, Learning and Engagement, Director, Creative Director, Operations Director, CEO, Director of Creative, Joint CEO, Deputy CEO, Assistant CEO, Chief Exec, Assistant Chief Exec, Deputy Chief Exec. #INDNFP

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

Citizens Advice Torfaen is seeking to appoint a new Chief Executive to ensure we continue to thrive, grow, and develop the services we deliver locally and nationally. The Chief Executive will lead the management of the organisation; advise the Trustees on the strategic direction of the organisation, implement Board decisions and promote our values, aims and objectives in everything they do. Reporting directly to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, the post will play a critical role in the overall leadership and management of Citizens Advice Torfaen and will be vital in securing the future success of the organisation.

Managing Director – YMCA Cornwall

Lead Change. Inspire Futures. Make a Difference.

YMCA Cornwall, a respected and growing local charity, is seeking a visionary Managing Director to drive our mission: ensuring every young person has the foundation for a safe, healthy, and fulfilling life. Based in Penzance, we support young people aged 16–24 at risk of homelessness, providing supported accommodation, life skills, and mentoring, as well as vital services for the wider community.

About the Role:

• Provide strategic and operational leadership to a financially robust, values-driven organisation.
• Oversee and innovate youth services and supported housing, ensuring person-centred, safe, and effective delivery.
• Lead a talented team, foster a culture of inclusion and inspiration, and champion our values: seeking out, serving others, inspiring, speaking out, and welcoming all.
• Build strong partnerships with local authorities, funders, and community organisations, and represent YMCA Cornwall as a visible ambassador.
• Drive sustainable growth, manage budgets, and secure diverse funding streams.

What We Offer:

• Salary: £60,000–£65,000 + benefits
• 37.5 hours/week (flexible, some evenings/weekends)
• 34 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
• Pension, wellbeing support, and more
• Immediate start, permanent contract

Who We’re Looking For:

• Senior leadership experience in charity, public sector, or community settings
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage budgets, and deliver diverse services
• Strong strategic, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Values-driven, with a passion for empowering young people

Ready to lead the next chapter? Closing date:  midday, Friday 26th June 2026

YMCA Cornwall – Transforming our community so all young people can belong, contribute, and thrive.

Be Our First Hire. Build the Infrastructure that Saves Lives.

About Us
We are a newly registered, fully-funded UK health charity embarking on a variety of health-related Missions.  Having secured Charity Commission approval and robust initial funding, we are now ready to step out of the planning phase.

Duet Health Foundation is starting with significant funding and access to external resources to support our initial campaigns which will include;

- Addressing significant safety issues related to certain commonly used medicines, gathering data on adverse events and deaths in order to campaign for ways to mitigate this.

- Raising awareness of rare diseases which are being missed. These can significantly affect sufferers’ lives, and while they may be relatively easy to diagnose and treat, are often simply not recognised by primary healthcare providers.

We are seeking our first employee—a visionary Director of Operations—to build our operational infrastructure from the ground up and turn our strategic vision into a highly impactful reality.

The Role

As our first hire, you will be a key part of the operational architecture of the charity. Working closely with the Founders, you will help transition the organisation from a newly approved legal entity into a fully functional, compliant, and active campaigning force. This is not a role for someone who just wants to manage existing systems; it is for a builder who also wants to create them.

The Director of Operations is a pivotal senior leadership role within the organisation, responsible for creating the operational backbone of the organisation. This role ensures that the organisation’s systems, people, suppliers and processes operate smoothly, safely and compliantly, enabling high-quality delivery. The Director of Operations will provide strong day-to-day operational leadership and discipline, freeing the Founders to focus on strategy, partnerships and organisational growth. The postholder will be highly organised, practical and accountable, with a strong focus on implementation and follow‑through.

To apply for this role, you will need to have significant operational management experience in a charity or similar environment. You will have demonstrable experience of managing complex operational systems and will have proven experience of workforce planning, operational delivery and implementing organisational change. You will have experience of managing suppliers, contracts and procurement processes and will have a strong understanding of operational compliance, risk management and audit readiness. Overall, you will be practical, organised and solutions-focused, with the confidence to work across teams and with trustees, suppliers and external partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Blueprinting: Design, implement, and oversee all required documentation and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), financial controls, and risk management systems.
• Governance & Compliance: Ensure total alignment with Charity Commission regulations, particularly the CC9 guidelines regarding political and health campaigning.
• Information Governance: Establish secure data sharing, privacy frameworks, and GDPR structures for future collection of sensitive patient and clinical data.
• Strategic Scaling: Manage third-party vendors (legal, IT, Associate contractors etc) and eventually support building the infrastructure for future recruitment.

About You

• Experienced: You have at least 5 years’ experience of operational management within the UK charity sector of the NHS, the pharmaceutical industry, or healthcare regulation (e.g., MHRA, NICE).
• A "Builder": You thrive on both teamwork and autonomy. You have a proven track record of setting up systems, policies, and teams from scratch.
• Governance Savvy: You have a solid understanding of UK charity law, compliance, and financial frameworks.
• Locally Based: You live within 25 miles of Camberley, Surrey, allowing for regular, in-person collaboration with the Founders.

Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to shape a charity's DNA from day one. You will have substantial autonomy, and the opportunity to play a key part in building an organisation that will directly improve patient safety and rare disease outcomes across the UK.

The Founders of the charity are a married couple who have both spent their working lives in healthcare and health research, particularly focussing on  developing treatments for often-neglected patient groups.

Manchester Central Foodbank is a busy Trussell Trust-affiliated food bank, with centres in Central, North, and East Manchester. We were established in Ardwick in 2013 by students at the Manchester Universities’ Catholic Chaplaincy, making us the first student-led food bank in the country. Since then we have grown significantly, expanding our weekly sessions into Harpurhey and Openshaw.

Our core aims are to deliver the best quality support that we can to the largest number of our neighbours in need, while working with partners and influencing and organising at a neighbourhood and citywide level to reduce and end the need for food banks in Manchester.

We currently support 16,000 people per year with nutritionally balanced 3-day food parcels. This is double the number of people we supported in the first year following the Covid-19 pandemic, and four times the number supported in 2019. We also provide financial inclusion support with advice workers in public sessions, access to energy vouchers, SIM cards, and other voucher or material support. We coordinate across a network of 200 active front-line referral agencies with the aim of ensuring everyone who accesses our service has appropriate, specialised, and ongoing support alongside the material provision that we provide.

We are active leaders in anti-poverty organising and community development, as convenors of the citywide Building an Anti-Poverty Community collective and aim to be key shapers and influencers of new strategies and policies, working closely to support and influence local government, NHS, education and research agendas in Manchester and more widely building upon our track record of successful anti-poverty partnership work, social value impact and Parliamentary influencing. Our core values are: care, partnership, dignity, partnership, anti-stigma and rights-based.

Key responsibilities
As Chief Executive Officer you will be the key senior staff leader for the charity. You will lead the team to ensure they have the resources, frameworks, and support to effect smooth day-to-day running of our frontline support service. You will provide a strong business management focus, through supporting the financial process, overall metrics and reporting, day to day HR and input for the external Payroll Team, Health and Safety, appropriate working conditions, and strategic planning and communications. 

As the senior lead you will also facilitate and support the Board of Trustees to develop and lead strategic development objectives and plans for transformation, and ensure the delivery and implementation of the charity’s overall strategy and specific focused strategies. You will develop and manage strategic relationships with stakeholders including Council, NHS, and other statutory partners and funders, corporate and social value funders and partners, and high-value and donors. You will also plan and lead fundraising strategies. 

You will be a key external interface for our community and partners.  You will do this by:

Staff/Board Leadership and Governance:

• Line managing a current team of operations staff, including those supporting the recruitment, training, and management of a large team of volunteers. 

• Building team spirit and employee engagement and offer.

• Leading and delivering regular staff performance and development reviews.

• Developing and delivering robust metrics and reporting to the board and staff team, through consistent monthly and quarterly reporting packs to the board of trustees.

• Ensuring all staff and volunteers are familiar and engaged with the charity’s long-term goals and objectives, and know how their work helps to implement these on the ground. Leading the development of induction packages and ongoing offers for staff and volunteers. You will be responsible for writing, implementation, and update of institutional policies as needed to staff and volunteers.

• Leading targeted volunteer recruitment strategies to maximise core delivery capacity through volunteer roles and prioritise staffing capacity to core charity operations.

• Ensure policies are kept current.

• Ensure recording and management of absence/leave.

• Ensure Health and Safety aspects of all organisational operations are compliant, in collaboration with the Board sponsor.

• Manage day to day financial input, through the Xero app, and ensure accurate and up-to-date financial reporting for the Board/Treasurer. This includes administering monthly payroll requests.

• Oversee training and personal development plans for staff and volunteers, as appropriate.

• Working with the Chair of Trustees to implement the charity’s strategic plan and structural development objectives.

• Develop and implement ongoing plans and actions to ensure operationally-appropriate and safe office, warehouse, and working spaces.

• Lead on development, modelling, and maintenance of service delivery standards, quality control, and ensuring frontline teams have the appropriate resources, support, and frameworks to deliver high quality and consistent support offers.

Foodbank Management:

• Support the Operations and Project Lead to deliver the smooth running of food bank sessions across multiple centres, ensuring an excellent standard of service across all centres, and seeking to continually develop our service in line with our goals to support the largest number of people with the best support we can while working to reduce and end the need for food banks in Manchester.

• Develop and build a new Delivery Strategy with the Chair of Trustees and Operations and Project Lead.

• Support the Operations and Project Lead and Warehouse and Logistics Coordinator to safely store and maintain optimal stock levels, maximise food donation levels and reduce food spend, develop and maintain relationships with community donors, and record incoming and outgoing stock, with the aim of ensuring that all centres are well stocked to provide as many varied, balanced, and nutritious and culturally-appropriate food parcels as necessary.

• Ensure compliance with the procedures set out in Manchester Central Foodbank’s policies, the Trussell Trust’s Operating Manual, and relevant statutory requirements at all times.

• Ensure our food bank centres provide a safe and dignified environment for clients, free from discrimination, judgement, and stigma.

Strategy and External Relationships:

• Working with the Chair of Trustees on development, monitoring, and implementation of the core charity strategy and sub-strategies. Ensuring the involvement and participation of the food bank’s staff, volunteers, external partners, and service users in all strategic planning and decision making, where appropriate.

• Support the Operations and Project Lead to work build strong relationships with referral partners and wider community and statutory networks of collaborators and support to ensure that our service users are able to access the maximum amount of support before, during, and after accessing our service to minimise the length and severity of financial crisis, maximise their incomes, and provide pathways to ongoing and longer-term support.

• Play an active role in strategic and convening spaces around our city and neighbourhoods to present the foodbank’s approach, bring more partners into our network, and influence policy and funding frameworks.

• Develop and manage a Corporate Relationships and Social Value strategy, including communications, networking, and relationship management.

• Lead on directing the charity’s external communications, including social media, in person, newsletters, company visits, and other content.

• Manage internal communications, including developing and delivering two-way team briefings with the board and staff/volunteers, biannual town halls or away days with board members and staff/volunteers, newsletters, and an open and collaborative, person-focused, and developmental culture within the organisation.

About you

Essential Experience and Knowledge:

• 5 years’ experience of leading a similar profiled charity or organisation and successful Board interaction.

• Experience of leading successful transformation and change for a charity and a strong developmental mindset and focus.

• Have led a team of 5 or more staff members to successful performance, demonstrating experience of coaching and individual development skills.

• Experience in developing and leading successful and engaged volunteering programmes and support.

• Full valid driving licence. 

• Proven experience of leading the development and delivery of strategy and sub-strategies to successful conclusion and fashioning evidenced business cases for current and new development projects.

• Leading multiple complex projects or services, balancing the needs and interests of a range of stakeholders.

• Experience of implementing rigorous reporting and evaluation practices on operations.

• Experience of managing day-to-day financial administration and reporting.

• Evidence of delivering clear metric dashboards and reports.

• Experience of high-quality implementation of Health and Safety and Safeguarding policies and a leadership practice that centres care for staff, volunteers, and service users. Safeguarding lead qualification is desirable but will provide training if not.

• Demonstrable knowledge and experience in HR processes and management.

• Experience in building and delivering strategic plans.

• Proven experience of effective problem solving and responding to crisis situations.

• A good working knowledge of the social welfare and political landscape in Manchester – or demonstrable experience in similar expertise and networking and an openness to learn and develop sector-specific knowledge.

• A nuanced and sensitive understanding of the complex reasons people attend food banks.

Desirable Experience and Knowledge:

• Partnering with and building relationships with Council, NHS, and other statutory partners and funders, corporate and social value partners and funders, high net worth donors, and fundraising through grant applications and individual/community donors.

• Experience of working collaboratively with stakeholders from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, faiths, and views. 

• Experience of handling safeguarding incidents, follow-ups, and debriefs with staff, volunteers, and service users.

• Demonstrated success in delivering communications strategies for internal and external stakeholders, including social media and press content and campaigns.

Personal Skills and Attributes:

• An individual who embodies the values of Manchester Central Foodbank in their core professional practice and personal approach to their work.

• An empathetic and care-centred approach and the ability to centre the experience and outcomes of people from marginalised or socially-excluded backgrounds in core decision-making and prioritisation.

• A leader who takes ownership, accountability, and responsibility to drive an organisation and team forward with a developmental mindset.

• A highly self-motivated and proactive person who centres collaboration and consensus with the staff team, volunteers and Board of Trustees in their approach.

• Able to develop strategy and plans and translate strategy to actionable delivery and developmental projects.

• A high level of literacy and communication.

• A high level of numeracy and ability to analyse data.

• Strong leadership attributes to build engagement and performance with the team.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to motivate, persuade, and coach staff and volunteers.

• Excellent personal organisation skills and the ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities and deadlines.

Lead a national charity at a pivotal moment of change and make a life‑changing impact for individuals and families affected by rare craniofacial conditions. 

Headlines Craniofacial Support is a UK-based charity providing information, advice and support to individuals and families affected by craniosynostosis and other rare craniofacial conditions.  The charity works closely with professional partners, including the 5 NHS Designated Specialist Craniofacial Units across the UK.

Craniosynostosis is a condition where two or more of the plates in the skull fuse prematurely, requiring medical support from a young age. Around 350 children are born with craniosynostosis each year in the UK.

Established by group of parents in 1993, Headlines now has over 2,500 members.  Within our charity offer we send out regular newsletters and an annual magazine, Headline News.  We also support families to connect through events such as an annual Family Weekend, conferences and Days Out, and provide information through our helpline and access to psychological support.  We have private social media groups and specific groups within our membership who meet regularly including Cranio Dads, Young Persons Network and a Teens Group.

After 8 successful years, our current Director will be retiring in 2026 and we are now seeking an enthusiastic, inspirational and proactive individual to take up the reins.This is a rare opportunity to lead a well-established, respected national charity at an important moment of transition.

Strategic priorities for us, moving forward, include increasing our fundraising activities to ensure sustainability of the charity alongside the smooth running of our core activities in providing support, facilitating research and raising awareness.

Key responsibilities

The Executive Director will hold day-to-day responsibilities, working closely with the Chair and Trustee Board to provide effective leadership and operational management of the charity. Specifically, they will:

• Act as an ambassador for the charity, liaising with members, health professionals and with wider community and provide day-to-day management of Headlines staff and activities, setting objectives in line with the operational plan.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding, data protection and other legal, statutory and regulatory requirements and responsibilities.
• Work on behalf of and with the Trustees to deliver the charity’s mission, goals, operational plans and long-term strategy,  and act as a positive leader and role model, managing and motivating Headlines staff,
• Ensure effective financial management of Headlines working closely with trustees and the treasurer to ensure financial security and appropriate allocation of funds.
• Manage and enhance the event programme to meet charity objectives, including identifying and meeting members’ priorities and raising awareness of craniofacial conditions.
• Develop opportunities for collaborative working and partnerships with other organisations for the benefit of people with craniosynostosis and rare craniofacial conditions.  This also includes work overseas, predominantly in Europe with our medical and charity partners.
• Oversee communications and marketing activities to raise the profile of Headlines, its work and the needs of its members.
• Identify opportunities for growth, developing projects and keeping policies relevant, to enhance and expand the work of Headlines.
• Be responsible for generating funds through innovative and cost-effective fundraising activities and grant applications to maintain the long-term success of the charity.

Person specification 

Essential criteria

• An understanding of the importance of the charity’s values and priorities.
• Evidence of inclusive, innovative and proactive leadership, with demonstrable experience of fundraising and income generation.
• Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills with experience organising events and activities.
• Experience of successfully managing budgets and developing new and sustainable funding streams.
• Excellent organisational, presentation and communication skills and the ability to write reports for public consumption and for statutory obligations.
• A high level of digital literacy skills with an understanding of online technology and the application of social media.
• Proven track record in managing, leading and motivating staff and volunteers.
• Willingness to operate a hybrid model of working with most work taking place from home, working remotely with stakeholders and across the UK/ internationally for specific events.
• Experience of working within the charity sector, ideally at a management level and/or within  financial management of the charitable sector, with sound knowledge of the relevant legal requirements and regulations applicable to a charitable organisation.

Desirable criteria

• Experience of working effectively with a Chair and Board of Trustees.
• Experience of working for a health-related organisation.
• An awareness of the principles of inclusivity, accessibility or experience of working with individuals with visible differences.
• Degree or equivalent.
• Experience of commissioning research and liaising with research bodies.

Other information

Headlines hosts events and fundraising activities throughout the whole of the UK. All Headlines staff are expected to work flexibly to support those activities as required, e.g. attendance at Annual Family Weekend, conferences, member events, supporter receptions and other related scientific meetings and conferences. This may occasionally require travel and overnight stays. In addition, all staff are expected to be self-servicing in terms of administration and basic digital skills. Please note that the list of duties is not exhaustive and additional responsibilities might occasionally arise and the workload can vary across the year

Are you an experienced charity leader ready to drive strategy, sustainability and frontline impact for an organisation supporting vulnerable young people experiencing social/emotional/domestic difficulties in school?

Mentor link is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead our Stourport based charity into its next phase due to the retirement of the Founder and CEO. Strengthening financial resilience, governance, partnerships and service impact whilst delivering high-quality, mentoring support.

This is a pivotal senior leadership role with full strategic and operational accountability.

About Mentor link

Mentor link supports vulnerable young people experiencing social/emotional or domestic difficulties in schools across the West Midlands. Based in Stourport on Severn Worcestershire the position is full time  circa £60k per annum and permanent subject to 3 months’ probation.

Please see the full job description attached