Executive director jobs

Job Description

Brent Mencap has been passionate about a healthier and fairer Brent since 1979. We’ve developed and run successful housing, employment, health, advice, wellbeing and self-advocacy services. During austerity and Covid we diversified, successfully taking on NHS work with people with long-term health conditions. We provide social prescribing support and health and wellbeing coaching to patients for Brent GPs. In 2024-5 we helped over 18000 people. We’re a leading partner on the Brent Health Educators Programme. Recently we’ve focused on developing and retaining a much larger staff group, using our data better and improving our marketing.

Brent Mencap offers fantastic free creative and wellbeing activities for people with a learning disability, autism and long-term health conditions. These have flourished since Covid. People love yoga, poetry, singing, gardening, Breathe and Move, self-advocacy, campaigning, awareness raising, CREATE art activities for young people, external trips and parties. Small grants, donations and our reserves fund this while we get longer term funding. Our self-advocates want us to focus on paid employment, youth services and making Brent Council use accessible information properly. People with a learning disability, neurodiversity and their family carers are inclusively supported by social prescribers for advice and by health educators/coaches for health-related matters if needed.

Our current Executive Director, who has led Brent Mencap so well for 25 years wants to retire. The successful candidate will build on Brent Mencap’s history, current success and potential so our long-term passion for a healthier and fairer Brent can evolve and improve the lives of Brent People. Are you the amazing successor to lead and inspire our talented, committed team?

We are looking for someone who  

· Has the relevant voluntary sector experience, vision, determination and leadership skills

· Is committed to developing and supporting our diverse staff group

· Can see the bigger picture but also focuses on the important details

· Supports our ethos of person-centred service delivery and activities

· Can communicate well with users, partners, staff, trustees and funders

· Enjoys influencing and raising awareness

· Is entrepreneurial, savvy, confident and can maintain our current  financial stability and diversify our income streams

· Understands the lived experience of disability, long term health conditions and inequality  and wants to improve their lives

· Understands the importance of marketing and data to challenge inequality, promote positive change and attract new funds.

· Can prioritise reviewing and improving our data collection

· Can develop funding project plans that includes staffing for enhanced  wellbeing and creative activities, for  young people, employment  related support and other identified needs

In addition, they will have to:

· Work with the Board of Trustees and staff to develop our vision, implement strategic plans and  deliver agreed objectives

· Be able to ensure all aspects of our work are done safely, legally, in line with our articles/constitution  and able to assess risks and mitigate them

· Be responsible for staff development, management and all aspects of the administration of the organisation

· Be an ambassador for Brent Mencap, meeting and working with leaders with statutory and voluntary sector, Royal Mencap and local Mencaps

· Represent the lived experiences and voices of people with learning disabilities, neurodivergence, long term conditions and their families who inform our work and the work of others in Brent

· Work late occasionally, attend evening events, meetings and occasional weekends and undertake any other necessary tasks as required to ensure Brent Mencap functions safely.

In order to deliver services effectively, a degree of flexibility is required and the post holder may be required to perform work not specifically referred to above. This job description will be subjected to review with the post holder, from time to time to ensure it accurately reflects the duties and range of the post.

This post is:

• subject to Enhanced DBS Disclosure

• subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. It will be necessary for a disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and barring Service for details of any previous criminal convictions.

• Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK

• Please note: Our office base is on the first floor of a Victorian building with steep stairs.

To be shortlisted,

· Candidates must fully complete our application form, and show clearly how their previous experience and knowledge meets all aspects of the person specification with examples given of actual actions/experience relating to the person specification. Please go to our website to complete the application by 9.00am on 28th August. We do not accept CVs

· Be prepared to visit Brent Mencap so key staff and self-advocates can meet them informally before the interview day  or have a 60–90-minute Teams meeting with them. To arrange a face-to-face or Teams  meet up on a Wednesday only  please contact our office manager Simon via the website.

Interview details

· A 4-part Interview with senior staff, self-advocates, operational managers and trustees, will take place at Brent Mencap on Friday 5th or 12th September 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be given a paper-based scenario to complete and send to us on the Thursday before the interview

· We anticipate the full interviews will take 2.5 hours with a 30-minute break at some point.

CEO (Chief Executive Officer)

Watford & Three Rivers Trust is seeking to appoint a new CEO to help steer the organisation through the next stage of its life.

Watford & Three Rivers Trust (W3RT) is a well-established infrastructure charity that works to strengthen community resilience and wellbeing across South West Hertfordshire.

Founded in 1974, W3RT partners with the voluntary, statutory, and business sectors to deliver essential services, provide sector support, and develop strategic initiatives that improve lives and build social capital.

Our CEO will:

· have great knowledge of the local voluntary sector

· understand the world of local commissioning

· possess a wide range of technical and business skills

· be committed to partnership working

· have a passion for community action

· be a great communicator

· be a great leader able to motivate and inspire

· have a clear moral focus

For the full person specification, please see the attachments (CEO job package) below.

Benefits:

• Enhanced sick leave
• Enhanced holiday allowance (25 days annual leave, additional day off following Boxing day + Bank Holidays)
• Flexible working arrangements
• Pension
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

# CEO # Chief Executive Officer # Chief Executive

We are working in partnership with Andover Mind, the charity has been working in the local area since 1984, and more recently in Romsey, Basingstoke and Aldershot, providing support, advice, and information for anyone affected by mental health distress.  They also deliver training and encourage local people to talk about mental health to help break down the stigma which surrounds the subject. 

A new three-year business plan was recently agreed, and its implementation is underway.

Andover Mind is now seeking to appoint a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the senior leadership team providing leadership, developing and implementing Andover Mind’s strategic and operational plans and leading on income generation, partnership and business development and for being an effective advocate for the charity and its beneficiaries.

Key responsibilities: 

• To support and advise the Chair and Board of trustees in setting the vision, strategy and business planning across mental health, health & social care policy and practice
• Create an organisation able to support its communities with easily accessible, mental health support
• To create and sustain effective multi-channel, multi-purpose income generation.
• Lead on organisational change: identifying and responding to internal and external challenges and influencing organisational culture so the organisation is supportive, inclusive and cohesive.
• Deliver an ambitious, aspirational and innovative strategy that has a clear measurable impact.

The new CEO will be responsible for the day to day running of the Charity, providing effective leadership and direction for the organisation.  The successful candidate will instil the positive culture of the organisation and motivating the team to achieve fantastic results.  You will be a problem solver who understands the bigger picture and will be able to demonstrate this through your experiences.  You will be able to develop highly effective partnerships, be an active listener, excellent communicator and be an ambassador for the charity. 

If you feel you have the values and skills to succeed in this role, we very much look forward to hearing from you. 

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law. 

Applications should be submitted via the Charisma Charity Recruitment website and include your CV and supporting statement. For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment.

Closing date for applications: 25 August 2025

Charisma interviews must be completed by 27 August, prior to shortlist on 28 August

Interview dates: w/c 1 September 2025 to be confirmed, to be held in-person in Andover, Hampshire

Executive Director, DIVA Charitable Trust

About DIVA 

DIVA Charitable Trust is committed to elevating, celebrating, and supporting LGBTQIA+ women and non-binary people everywhere. Our goal is to be a stage for talent, a mirror that reflects our community in all its diversity, and a megaphone, amplifying our movement in its work to create a fairer, more just world for all LGBTQIA+ people. Through this work, we believe we can contribute to shaping a world that is better for everyone.

Following an exciting year in which we registered as a charity after more than 30 years serving our community, we are looking to appoint an Executive Director who can work with our talented team of staff and trustees to grow and nurture DIVA at a critical time for LGBTQIA+ women and non binary people.​​

Job description

The Executive Director is an externally facing role, responsible for growing DIVA’s income, partnerships, and impact. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and dynamic leader to build on our iconic brand and deliver for LGBTQIA+ women and non binary people in the UK and globally.

A key aspect of the role will be to continue growing DIVA’s network of partners, corporate sponsors, and donors. The ED will work with the Board of Trustees to drive the future strategy and lead a small editorial and design team.

Core Responsibilities

·Act as the public face of DIVA, and support the wider team (including Board, Patrons, and colleagues) to represent DIVA to key audiences.

·Work with the Board to set and deliver the strategy for DIVA Charitable Trust and be accountable for ensuring its implementation and the appropriate governance of the charity.

·Lead on fundraising for DIVA Charitable Trust, growing our sponsorship and partnership income and establishing new charitable donation and grant-based funding streams.

·Oversee the planning and delivery of Lesbian Visibility Week, continuing to grow its global reach, and work with the team to develop new flagship projects.

·Oversee the delivery of an engaging, high quality and creative magazine in both print and digital formats, and develop a marketing strategy to increase magazine sales

·Manage the DIVA team and oversee operations at DIVA Charitable Trust, including leading on the financial strategy and business plan.

Person Specification / Attributes

The successful candidate will be a talented leader with a strong track record in fundraising and partnership development and experience of building high performing teams.

Essential skills and experience

·Demonstrable track record of raising significant income from a variety of sources

·Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills

·Demonstrable track record of providing motivational and influential leadership and in representing a high-profile organisation and issues

·Good understanding of financial accounting and budgeting in the charity sector

·Strategic and innovative thinking

Desirable but not essential

·Experience of working in or with the LGBTQIA+ movement

·Experience of working in media or communications 

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Job Role:

Deputy CEO

Start Date:

ASAP

Contract:

Permanent / Full time

Salary:

£50,000 per annum plus additional benefits

Location:

Remote working from home with occasional travel

Closing Date for Applications:

6th August 2025

Interviews likely to be on

18th/19th August 2025

Role Overview

Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse (AAFDA) was founded by Frank Mullane in memory of his sister Julia Pemberton and her son Will who were both killed by her ex-partner in 2003. Each year, more than 200 families lose a loved one to domestic homicide or suicide or sudden death following domestic abuse. We help these families in many ways, our prime function being to provide families in England and Wales with specialist peer support and expert and specialist advocacy for the range of statutory reviews that will take place after fatal domestic abuse. 

AAFDA are recruiting a Deputy CEO to join our remote team to play a pivotal role in ensuring our operational success, driving key programmes, enhancing organisational performance, and supporting income generation efforts.

As Deputy CEO, you will be a key leader in transforming our vision into action. Working closely with the CEO, you will ensure the smooth running of the charity’s day-to-day operations and your leadership will enable AAFDA to reach new heights in both impact and growth.

We need someone with the passion and conviction to help us push for the big changes needed and the expertise to develop and position our strategy, influencing, campaigning and fundraising accordingly. The right person will be comfortable embracing chaos, and will convey resilience and calmness under pressure.

We welcome applications from candidates with experience of domestic abuse.  We are also committed to diversity and strongly encourage applications from those with Black and/or Minoritised backgrounds.

To Apply: Please see the job description and person specification. Please apply by submitting your C.V. and a supporting statement, which will be no longer than 4 sides of A4 and covers your experience and ability to fulfil the person specification.

Drive the next chapter of the Surrey Hills Society - a thriving countryside charity in the Surrey Hills.

Are you an entrepreneurial leader with a passion for nature, community engagement, and sustainable development? Do you want to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a much-loved environmental charity?

The Surrey Hills Society is seeking its first Chief Executive Officer to lead our dedicated team and volunteers, sustain and grow our vibrant membership, and develop long-term funding to support our work across one of England’s most treasured National Landscapes.

About Us

The Surrey Hills Society is a well-established independent charity with a 15-year track record of engaging communities in environmental, cultural, and educational activities. We run 40+ events each year and are closely partnered with the Surrey Hills National Landscape and other local organisations. Our reach and impact have grown significantly in recent years through funded projects like the National Lottery Heritage Fund's Growing Together and the South East Surrey Care Farm Pilot, alongside a strong and active membership.

This is an exciting time to join us as we transition from a volunteer-led model to a more professional and sustainable structure—with the CEO at the helm.

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About the Role

As CEO, you will lead the strategic and operational development of the Society, with a particular focus on:

 •  Fundraising & income generation – developing and securing grants, donations, and earned income

 •  Team leadership – line managing a small staff team and supporting a wide network of volunteers

 •  Stakeholder engagement – acting as the public face of the Society and deepening key partnerships

 •  Strategic planning – creating a 3-year vision and business plan for long-term sustainability

 •  Programme oversight – ensuring delivery of existing and new conservation and community projects

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About You

We’re looking for a resourceful, proactive leader who combines strategic thinking with hands-on delivery. You’ll need:

 •  Proven fundraising experience (grants, trusts, individuals, corporates)

 •  Leadership skills with experience managing staff and/or volunteers

 •  Confidence in managing budgets and business planning

 •  Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

 •  A genuine passion for the countryside, community engagement, and conservation

Experience with membership models, event programming, or working in a similar community/landscape context would be an advantage.

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What We Offer

 •  Flexible, home-based working (3 days/week)

 •  A supportive, purpose-driven team environment

 •  The chance to shape a unique, growing charity at a critical point in its evolution

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Deputy Chief Executive to join our Senior Leadership Team. This pivotal role will work closely with our Chief Executive to ensure our internal governance, planning, and systems are robust and future-ready.

About CAN (Community Action Network):
CAN is a respected local infrastructure charity proudly holding the NAVCA Quality Award. We are a membership-led organisation committed to strengthening Dorset’s voluntary and community sector. Our mission is to serve and champion local charities and community groups, helping to build strong, healthy, diverse, and thriving communities.

We hold two national quality assurance awards and our work is underpinned by NAVCA’s four functions of a Local Infrastructure Charity:

• Leadership and advocacy
• Partnerships and collaboration
• Capacity building
• Volunteering

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight across the organisation.
• Drive performance by setting clear expectations and evaluating outcomes.
• Contribute to the delivery of our strategic plan, Action With Heart, aligning with our vision, mission, and values.
• Act as a key ambassador and representative for CAN, deputising for the Chief Executive as required.
• Collaborate with the Senior Leadership Team to identify and secure new income streams, strengthening our financial sustainability

About You:
You are an experienced leader with a passion for the voluntary and community sector. You bring:

• Proven experience in strategic planning, governance, and performance management.
• Strong financial acumen and a track record of income generation.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• A collaborative and values-driven approach to leadership.

Why Join Us?
At CAN, you’ll be part of a dynamic team making a real difference in Dorset. We offer a supportive and flexible working environment, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to shape the future of a vital local charity.

We offer a competitive salary and great benefits, including contributory pension scheme, 25 days holiday (pro-rata) plus all bank holidays, season train ticket loan, flexible working and much more.

For an informal discussion, please contact Karen Loftus CEO

Available documents on our website

• Strategic Plan 2025 – 2026
• CAN our values
• Deputy Chief Executive Job description and person specification
• Application form

How to apply

Please download and complete our CAN application form from our website and return it to via email by 5:00pm, Monday 18th August.

It is not our policy to accept CV’s. If you have any problems completing your application, please call or email (details on our website).

Closing date: 18th August 2025 (5pm)
Interviews: On Teams 28th August 2025

For 140 years, the Forces Employment Charity has proudly supported Service leavers, veterans, and their families in building successful civilian careers.

We provide veterans with life-long, life-changing support, jobs, and training opportunities, regardless of circumstances, rank, length of service, or reason for leaving.
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We are now seeking a Director of Finance and Resources to join our senior leadership team. This is a strategic and mission-critical role that will shape the operational and financial foundations of the charity during an exciting phase of growth and transformation following recent mergers and expanded contracts.

About the Role

As Director of Finance and Resources, you will report directly to the Chief Executive and work closely with the Board of Trustees, leading the charity’s Finance, HR, Infrastructure, Legal, and Governance functions.

​

You will:

• Develop and implement a forward-looking financial strategy that supports sustainable growth and fundraising

• Provide leadership across Finance, People, and Infrastructure teams (managing three Heads of Department)

• Oversee risk, compliance, procurement, legal and IT systems, ensuring efficiency, resilience and value for money

• Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO and Trustees, supporting strategic planning and business transformation

• ​Foster a collaborative, inclusive and high-performance culture across the organisation

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This is an ideal opportunity for a commercially savvy, values-driven leader who thrives on bringing clarity, stability, and strategic foresight to complex organisations.

About You

We’re looking for a senior finance leader with a professional accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or similar) or equivalent financial and commercial management experience gained in an organisation of comparable scale or complexity.

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Ideally, you will bring:

• ​A strong track record of financial leadership, strategic planning, and operational delivery
• ​Experience working with (or within) third sector organisations and/or government-funded programmes
• ​An inclusive, engaging leadership style, with the ability to inspire teams and influence stakeholders
• ​A deep understanding of compliance, risk, and governance in a mission-driven environment
• ​A genuine commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community

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Interested? Want to know more about the Charity? please visit our website

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Eager to know more the role? Have a look at the Job Description attached or if you'd like to discuss the role with someone, feel free to contact us.

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What’s in it for you? Check out the Benefits sheet attached.

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Have we convinced you to apply? If so, submit your CV and Covering Letter by closing date Tuesday, 17 August 2025.

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Please note: Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert; therefore, we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible. If you are an internal applicant, please ensure you have made The People Team aware before applying.

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

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

A global movement working to protect animals and advance their welfare wherever they are at risk is seeking an Executive Director to lead its United Kingdom operations. Whether it’s challenging the fur trade, fighting to end trophy hunting imports, eliminating cruel farming practices or ending the brutal dog meat trade in Asia, this organisation’s campaigns are making a real difference for animals. The UK branch is at the heart of that mission, helping to deliver international impact while also shaping a distinct UK voice in the animal protection movement.

With a newly launched global brand, a track record of sustainable growth and a strong foundation of support, the organisation is entering an exciting new chapter.

Executive Director, United Kingdom
London, with hybrid working
Circa £120,000 per annum

This is a unique opportunity to lead the UK operations of a dynamic global organisation, by championing its values, inspiring the team, and driving forward strategic priorities.

The Executive Director will lead all aspects of the UK entity, from setting direction, strengthening operations, guiding a skilled team, and supporting the public and philanthropic profile. The role involves working closely with the Board of Trustees and global colleagues to align UK strategy with international goals, while ensuring a responsive approach to the opportunities and challenges of the UK’s political and charitable landscape.

With support from a dedicated UK team as well as colleagues across the globe, the Executive Director will play a central role in a movement that’s transforming lives, for both animals and people.

We’re looking for a strategic, values-driven leader who brings:

• A track record of leading multi-disciplinary teams at a senior level.
• Experience of managing charity operations, budgets and governance frameworks.
• A collaborative and inclusive leadership style, with a passion for team wellbeing and development as well as working with a range of internal colleagues.
• Experience or interest in acting as an ambassador, representing an organisation to a range of stakeholders.

While direct experience in animal welfare is not required, you must share our belief in a more humane world — and bring the drive, credibility, and compassion to lead our UK team into its next phase of growth and impact.

For further information, to access the appointment brief and to apply to this role, please click on "redirect to recruiter"

Recruitment Timetable 

Deadline for applications: Monday 25th August 2025

Interviews with Prospectus: 29th August – 5th September 2025

Interviews with organisation - UK: 18th September (afternoon) and 19th September (afternoon) 2025

Action for Refugees in Lewisham (AFRIL) is seeking our next Executive Director to lead our small, dynamic charity. You will be joining an impactful local organisation at a crucial time in our development. Since 2021 we have grown significantly and sustainably, developing new services based on client needs. You will be leading a highly competent and passionate team who are community minded and experts in their fields. 

The Executive Director has overall responsibility for the day-to-day management of the charity, including finance and fundraising, as well as supporting the development and delivery of services. They will work with four experienced project leads to deliver and develop our core services: Casework and Advocacy Service, Rainbow Club Supplementary School, Destitution Service and Food Bank, and our Allotment of Refuge, as well as our Policy and external influencing work led by our Deputy Director for Casework and Policy. 

We are seeking to appoint an exceptional candidate who can balance the demands of strategic leadership with the operational execution and development of our services and policy work. We are seeking someone with a high level of operational skill and accountability in operational management and governance. You will be responsible for the central services of the charity including finance, fundraising, legal, HR and communications. We are looking for a thoughtful leader who is passionate about staff and volunteer support. You should have experience and understanding of small charities and the external context within which we operate.

About us:

Founded in 2004, AFRIL supports refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants to lift themselves out of poverty, assert their rights, and rebuild their lives in the heart of our community. We provide both crisis support to meet immediate need, and longer-term, flexible programmes to tackle the underlying issues that result in poverty. We engage in policy and legal interventions to affect change. Our work is grounded in the values of professionalism, inclusivity, and solidarity, and our approach to service delivery is one of co-production and empowerment. We work with partners locally and nationally to deliver high quality services and advocacy.

Our Services:

• Casework and Advocacy – AQS and IAA accredited advice, casework and legal interventions in housing and homelessness, complex welfare rights, community care, asylum support,  immigration, access to education and employment, healthcare and related matters. 

• Destitution Project - supporting families to overcome extreme food poverty through regular food vouchers, fresh culturally appropriate food, toiletries, and essential household items plus small grants and a free café.

• Rainbow Club Saturday School - improving educational attainment, wellbeing, confidence and self-esteem, and raising the aspirations of disadvantaged primary age children. 

• Allotment of Refuge - a welcoming and integrated community of food growers improving the health, wellbeing and healthy food access of children and adults seeking sanctuary in Lewisham.

• Immigration Project in partnership with Southwark Law Centre - free legal advice and representation to support families to regularise their UK immigration status in the UK.

In addition, we hold a monthly Members Forum, and use the evidence from our frontline work together with the testimony of our members to influence improved policy and practice.

AFRIL is currently in a good position, with the several long-term grants and statutory funding secured, and good relationships with community and individual donors. The Executive Director position represents an exciting opportunity to work with a passionate and highly competent team and the wider community to bring about real, positive change for vulnerable migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees in South East London. 

AFRIL is an equal opportunities employer. We are a diverse staff team and particularly encourage applications from BAME candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates and those with lived experience of asylum/irregular migration. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support our staff to flourish.

We are proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector. Please feel free to use their information and resources which may help in preparing your job application.

Please read full Job Description and Person Specification. Applications will only be accepted through CharityJob - please submit a CV and cover letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) detailing how you meet the person specification. 

Chief Executive Officer

Charity: (Evidence-based healthcare)

Location: UK based (relocation package available)

Contract: Permanent, Full-time

Salary: Circa £160,000+ per annum

Reports to: The Governing Board

Our client is a globally recognised leader in evidence-based healthcare. For over 30 years, they have been committed to producing trusted health evidence that informs decisions, improves outcomes, and supports better health for all.

They are now seeking an outstanding Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation into its next phase of growth and impact.

Reporting directly to the Chair of the Governing Board, the CEO will provide inspirational, values-driven leadership to the Central Executive Team and across the global community. This is a pivotal appointment that will shape the strategic direction of a high-profile international charity at a time of significant opportunity and transformation.

The CEO will be responsible for delivering the strategy, ensuring strong operational and financial stewardship, and further enhancing the organisation’s reputation and influence across the global health ecosystem.

As the most senior ambassador for the organisation, the CEO will build strategic partnerships, cultivate stakeholder engagement, and advance the mission at the highest levels, including with governments, funders, the World Health Organization, and other multilateral partners.

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• A credible and confident leadership profile with experience operating at executive or CEO level, ideally within an international, scientific, healthcare, or related context.
• A proven track record of strategic leadership in complex organisations, including organisational development, financial oversight, and leading high-performing teams.
• Strong scientific or health sector knowledge with the personal authority to represent the organisation globally.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders across sectors, cultures, and disciplines.

Above all, the appointed candidate will show a deep personal commitment to the organisation’s values and to the vital role that high-quality evidence plays in improving health worldwide. This is a unique opportunity to lead a globally respected organisation that makes a tangible difference to people's lives.

Candidates who share this commitment to global health equity, evidence-based practice, and collaborative leadership are warmly encouraged to apply.

For more information on the role, the organisation, their community, and how to apply, please view the appointment brief on the Prospectus website by clicking 'Redirect to recruiter'.

Our client is a Disability Confident employer. If you have a disability and would like to be considered under the Disability Confident Scheme, please indicate this in your covering letter. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support your application, you are encouraged to let us know.

The interim Chief Executive is an executive leader, who co-leads the Belgrade with the Artistic Director, reporting to the Board. They are responsible for driving strategic planning with SLT, programming, advocacy and fund-raising, stakeholder management, and overseeing the finance and operations of the organisation. They are one of the public faces of the Theatre, alongside the Artistic Director.

The interim CEO works in close collaboration with the Artistic Director to:

• curate a high quality artistic programme and support the organisation to deliver the artistic strategy.
• provide effective and inclusive leadership for the staff team, drawing on the collective strength of the SLT in their decision making.

The interim CEO drives the income generation for the Theatre, to achieve the balanced budget, and is chiefly responsible for the Main Stage visiting work programme.

The interim CEO line manages an SLT including a Chief Operations Officer (who in turn oversees finance, HR, production and operations); Director of Audiences and Growth, Director of Producing and Co-Creation and Head of Business Support.

What You Will Do

Leadership & Management​

• In collaboration with the Artistic Director;​
• Provide inspirational leadership and a clear sense of direction to the senior team and wider organisation​
• Drive and oversee SLT in the development and delivery of the Belgrade’s story of change and business plans that support the Vision, Mission and Values of The Belgrade, communicating these internally and externally.​
• Take an inclusive approach to line management of the SLT which fosters a culture of clear timely decision making and communication. ​
• Oversee the SLT to ensure the experience all artists, audiences, visitors receive from the Belgrade is inclusive, informed and enriching; and the building provides a welcoming, safe space.​
• Ensure a commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability throughout the organisation.

Programming ​

• Work closely with the Artistic Director and SLT to curate and deliver a high-quality and relevant programme which balances artistic, financial and operational needs, taking chief responsibility for the visiting work.​
• Develop strategic relationships with a wide range of commercial producers and visiting companies to secure appropriate visiting work and negotiate the deals maximising the benefits of these partnerships for the commercial benefit and artistic reputation of the Belgrade.​
• Support the Artistic Director to shape the artistic strategy and creative direction of the theatre. ​
• In collaboration with the Artistic Director,​
• agree lead productions and secure co-producers​
• Bring in co-productions that enhance the programme.​

Governance​

• Work closely with the Chair and Board of Trustees to ensure best practice in governance, maintaining effective working relationships with all Trustees.​
• Support the implementation of the Board Effectiveness plan.​
• Develop and maintain robust and effective risk management systems with SLT.​
• Work closely with the SLT to ensure full compliance with all legal obligations and statutory requirements, including the preparation of Annual Report and Financial Statements, and annual returns to Companies House and the Charity Commission.​
• Carry out any other tasks that may be allocated by the Board of Trustees.​

  External Relations​

• Nurture excellent working relationships with key stakeholders, partners and supporters, including Arts Council England (ACE) and Coventry City Council (CCC); specifically, leading on NPO applications, and working to meet the objectives of CCC’s Cultural Plans.​
• Continue to develop The Belgrade’s role as a strategic partner and cultural leader locally and regionally.​
• Act as advocate and ambassador for the Belgrade, representing the organisation publicly, seeking out opportunities to raise the profile of the Belgrade. ​
• Lead on the Reporting to Funders, with support of Head of Business Support, and in collaboration with the AD.​
• The Interim CEO will represent the theatre in strategic and cultural development forums including Culture Works, and UK Theatre, in collaboration with the AD

Financial and Operational Overview​

• Oversee the Chief Operating Officer to ensure;​
• Robust financial management of the organisation, ensuring expenditure and commitments are made within available resources, risk is managed effectively.​
• Budgets are appropriately set and monitored.​
• Accounting information supplied in a timely manner and ensuring there is a strong cash-flow position at all times.​

​Income Generation​

• Take a pro-active approach to the continuing growth of the Belgrade’s commercial capability, ensuring all opportunities for generating income are maximised through;​
• Oversee the Director of Audiences and Growth and COO in driving the Belgrade’s commercial capacity, ensuring the commercial potential of the building is maximised, particularly through catering and conferencing.​
• Oversee the Director of Audiences and Growth in the delivery of The Belgrade’s fundraising strategy, playing a visible leading role in fundraising events as appropriate.

What Are We Looking For ?

Essential: You will be able to demonstrate this range of skills and experience:​

Commitment to the vision, mission and values of The Belgrade.​

​Either: significant senior management experience in a theatre of a similar scale to The Belgrade​

Or: significant experience of leadership at a senior level in the cultural industries, in an organisation of a similar scale to the Belgrade.​

• Considerable experience in financial management of complex, large scale budgets, and a proven track record in balancing Artistic risk and ambition with sound financial management.​
• Proven track record in programming commercially and artistically successful seasons of work.​
• Ability to nurture a diverse network of industry contacts nationally and internationally. ​
• Understanding of the UK arts and theatre scene; knowledge of the issues facing subsidised theatre.​
• Track record of negotiating and maintaining effective partnerships for theatre productions. ​
• Experience of developing and implementing strategic business plans.​
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to provide clear strategic direction and manage a large team.​
• An innovative approach; the ability to recognise and exploit commercial opportunities with energy.​
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with demonstrable ability to build trust-based relationships with a wide range of people both internally and externally. ​
• Commitment to learning, engagement, talent development and inclusivity.​
• Ability to act as spokesperson in a range of settings; experience of senior stakeholder management​
• Ability to articulate the role of The Belgrade in ACE’s Let’s Create strategy​
• Leadership of the Belgrade Brand Values to be the people who know and care. ​

Desirable ​

• Experience of carrying financial responsibility for an organisation of a similar scale.​
• Detailed knowledge of marketing & audience development; knowledge of the regional theatre context.​
• Experience of effectively managing a fundraising and individual giving strategy.​
• Experience of working with a voluntary Board of Trustees. ​
• Experience of working collaboratively with an Artist/Artistic Director. ​
• Experience of managing Arts Council England NPO relationship.​
• Understanding of Theatre Tax Relief.

Other Information

• The Belgrade operates a House Agreement based on the UK Theatre (formerly TMA)/BECTU (Broadcasting, Entertainment, Cinematograph and Theatre Union) Agreement and its Staff Handbook outlines the terms on sick pay, maternity leave and pay, paternity leave and pay, grievance and discipline and other relevant staff matters​
• Employees’ health and safety is of paramount importance, and Management insists that an employee obtains written express permission to take on any paid work or other employment during periods of TOIL (Time Off In Lieu) or holiday. No permission will be given for the first 28 days of holiday as this is a statutory requirement​
• On appointment the successful candidate must be able to provide the correct documents as proof of their right to work in the UK​​
• The candidate’s contract of employment with the Belgrade Theatre does not come into force until the first day of work​
• Staff are entitled to tickets for shows at the Belgrade Theatre, subject to particular conditions and 10% discount at the Theatre’s Café and Bars

Starting date: 13 October 2025 /ASAP​

Probationary period: 3 months​

Notice period: 3 months​

• Working Hours: Your normal hours of work will be 39 hours per week over Monday to Friday, but we are flexible to those considering a 32 hour week post. There will be occasional evening and weekend work. You are expected to offer reasonable flexibility in your working arrangements where it is considered necessary to undertake the duties you have been employed to perform and in the interests of the Theatre. There is no provision for payment of overtime​
• Overtime: Is not payable but 6th day working and excessive additional hours will attract TOIL (time off in lieu) if agreed in advance with the Line Manager​
• Pension: Auto-enrolment, with Belgrade currently making 3% employer contributions which will rise in line with legal requirements. The Theatre’s appointed pension provider is NEST. Further details are available​
• Holidays: 25 days a year plus 8 Bank Holidays, increasing by a day per year to a maximum 28 days plus 8 Bank Holidays​
• Location: This role is based at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry. Short term relocation / accommodation can be considered as part of the renumeration package.

​EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FORM​

The Belgrade Theatre is committed to ensuring equal opportunities, aiming to attract and work with staff from a wide diverse pool. The information that you give us on this form will be treated confidentially and stored on our HR database as statistical information only. This will be used to help monitor the diversity of applicants and to enable us to continue to develop policies and procedures regarding diversity and to submit required data to our funders. The information you supply will not be made available to anyone in any form other than anonymous data.​

​Please complete our monitoring form via the link you will find in the Job Pack

Inspire the next generation through outdoor adventure

Blackwell Adventure is one of the UK’s leading outdoor education charities. Located across two sites in rural Worcestershire and welcoming over 30,000 visitors annually, we deliver high-quality outdoor learning experiences to schools, Scouts, Guides, youth organisations, and corporate clients.

As our current CEO prepares to retire, we are seeking an exceptional leader to take the helm and shape the next chapter of our charity’s story. This is an outstanding opportunity for a dynamic and visionary professional with a deep commitment to outdoor learning and youth development. 

About the Role

As Chief Executive Officer, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for the charity, reporting to the Board of Trustees. You will lead a committed team of staff and volunteers to ensure the continued delivery of safe, inclusive, and transformative experiences for young people, while ensuring Blackwell Adventure remains financially sustainable and future-focused.

Key areas of responsibility include:

• Strategic planning and organisational governance
• Operational and programme delivery across Blackwell Court and Pikes Pool
• Fundraising and income diversification, including grant acquisition and commercial development
• Financial planning, risk management, and regulatory compliance
• External representation and partnership development
• Team leadership and values-driven cultural stewardship
• This is a hands-on leadership role suited to someone who is equally comfortable setting vision, making strategic decisions, managing complex operations, and building strong, positive relationships with partners and funders.

About You

• We are looking for an experienced, inspirational leader with:
• A proven track record of strategic and operational leadership at senior level
• A strong background in outdoor education or a closely related field
• Demonstrable success in financial management and income generation
• Excellent people management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
• A deep understanding of the educational, developmental, and safeguarding needs of young people
• A collaborative, values-led approach, and commitment to continuous improvement

Higher-level outdoor qualifications and familiarity with the voluntary or charitable sector will be advantageous. 

Why Join Blackwell Adventure?

· A respected, successful, and values-driven charity

· A supportive and engaged Board of Trustees

· A passionate and talented staff and volunteer team

· Two beautiful 50-acre sites with extensive facilities

· A competitive salary and benefits package

· Relocation support available

· Optional on-site accommodation available for rent (Detached 2-bedroom Gatehouse Lodge).

Deadline for applications: 5:00 p.m., Monday 18th August 2025

Key Dates

• Application deadline: Monday 18th August 2025, 5:00 p.m.
• Shortlist notification: Friday 22nd August 2025
• Interviews + Facility tours (2.5 hrs, in-person at Blackwell Court):  Up to the 4th of September 2025
• Proposed start date: Monday 5th January 2026

Blackwell Adventure is an equal opportunity employer.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and actively encourage candidates with lived experience of the power of outdoor learning.
All offers are subject to satisfactory references, enhanced DBS clearance, and background checks.

Chief Executive Officer - NAFAS
Location: London (hybrid – 3 days per week at office in the City)
Salary: circa £65,000
Contract: permanent, full-time

Are you ready to lead one of the UK’s most cherished floral communities into a bold, new era?

The National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS) is a membership organisation and charity that has been enriching lives with flowers since 1959. With 30,000 members in 21 Areas, we unite amateur and professional florists, demonstrators, judges and teachers under one blooming banner. From gold-medal exhibits at Chelsea to county flower festivals, our mission, “Sharing the creative use of flowers through education, to bring joy and inspiration to all”, is at the heart of everything we do.

As our next CEO, you will:

• Strategic Leadership: Shape and deliver a strategy that will define the future of NAFAS.
• Governance & Finance: Provide strategic oversight of governance frameworks and financial operations, ensuring compliance, sound budgeting and transparent reporting.
• Operational Excellence: Strengthen organisational capacity through targeted recruitment and by further refining process to enhance efficiency and reduce reliance on manual effort.
• Membership & Education: Develop and roll out membership growth initiatives and a broad range of educational offerings to engage and inspire participants of all ages.
• Communications & Partnerships: Elevate communications strategies and cultivate strategic alliances to expand reach, bolster reputation and drive collaborative opportunities.

Who you are

• A seasoned senior leader, ideally CEO level, ideally in a membership organisation.
• Skilled in strategic planning, governance and P&L ownership.
• A confident boardroom presenter with the gravitas to inspire trustees, staff and volunteers alike.
• A hands-on, approachable team-player who balances respect for cherished traditions with appetite for innovation.
• (Desirable) A passion for flowers or creative arts, and digital marketing savvy.

Why NAFAS?

• Lead a specialist organisation with a £3.5 million reserve and a history of galvanising floral creativity.
• Work alongside a dedicated HQ team and hundreds of committed volunteers.
• Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working and the excitement of national flower shows.
• Make your mark by ensuring our legacy flourishes for generations to come.

If you would like to receive an Information Pack for this role with details on how to apply, please send an expression of interest and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile in confidence to our consultant, Jenny Hills via the apply now button. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny at the above address with suitable times to speak.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 1st September 2025

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.