Finance and grants officer jobs

The Society of Authors (SoA) is the UK's largest trade union for all types of writers, illustrators and literary translators. We’ve been advising authors and speaking out for the profession since 1884. 

We’re currently looking to welcome a Finance Manager to our team.

The role

The Finance Manager leads on the operational management of the finance function to ensure there are robust financial controls, effective reporting and efficient day-to-day financial operations across the organisation, including our ancillary charities and literary estates. The postholder is expected to foster excellent working relationships across the organisation with all staff, member volunteers, senior colleagues, board members and charity trustees.

Reporting directly to the Chief Operations Officer, the Finance Manager has significant responsibility for:

· Management accounts and reporting

· Budgeting and forecasting

· Cashflow oversight

· Audit and compliance

· Financial controls and process improvement

· Operational financial analysis

Responsibilities

Day-to-day financial management 

• Manage the day-to-day finances for the organisation. Ensuring all aspects of the financial systems are accurate and kept updated including banking and sales and purchase ledgers.
• Manage the finances for our 14 charities. Ensure all aspects of the financial systems are kept updated.
• Undertake monthly reconciliations ensuring all transactions are properly and efficiently recorded.
• Prepare quarterly VAT returns for the organisation including the partial VAT exemption calculation.
• Oversee the management and appropriate allocation of any restricted funds for the charities ensuring that monies are allocated as per donor wishes or grant specifications.
• Prepare any ad hoc budget request and figures for other departments or the management.
• Regularly review and maintain financial policies and procedures.
• Support with funding bids and reports for donors and grant-making bodies.

Budget process management

• Work closely with the Chief Operating Officer on preparing the annual budgets for the organisation and our ancillary charities.
• Prepare quarterly figures for review, explaining any variation from budgeted figures.
• Monitor the actual spend against budgets for all the charities.

· Ensure adequate cash flow to meet the needs of the organisation and our charities in consultation with the Chief Operating Officer and Head of Charities.

• Work closely with all Departmental Heads to ensure they fully understand their budgets and ongoing organisational performance against budget. 

Statutory reporting

• Assist the Chief Operating Officer with the preparation of the organisation’s accounts.
• One of the main points of liaison with the external auditors, ensuring all supporting papers are collated for an efficient and effective annual audit to take place.
• Maintain fixed asset register and inventory of all equipment contracts and agreements.
• Ensure adequate controls are in place to safeguard the financial assets of the organisation.
• Lead on preparing all our charity accounts.
• Assist the COO to ensure the organisation and its ancillary charities are compliant with statutory bodies and external institutions including:

o Companies House

o Certification office

o Charity Commission

o HMRC

o  All banks and payment processors

Financial risk management

• Work with the Chief Operating Officer to ensure that the appropriate processes are in place for the long-term financial viability of the organisation.
• Develop, update and produce long-term cashflow forecasts for both the organisation and our ancillary charities.

· Ensure appropriate financial risk management techniques and controls are in place at strategic and operational levels. 

Governance support to the Finance Sub-Committee and Charity Trustees

• Assist in the preparation of all associated papers and minutes for the Finance Sub- Committee.
• Assist the Chief Operating Officer in preparing papers for Board and Charity Trustees.

 The duties above outline the broad areas of responsibility. The SoA reserves the right to vary these duties to suit the requirements of the business.

 Person specification

Essential

• Minimum part-qualified accountant or qualified by experience with strong financial management experience, with an ability to understand the practical impact of finance decisions and processes across the organisation.

· Strong IT skills including the Microsoft Office suite, in particular Excel, and experience of using databases. 

• Experience of using Sage 50 Cloud Accounts.
• Significant experience and confidence in managing a full range of finance operations in a small or medium sized organisation in the not-for-profit sector.
• Confident presenting financial information to non-financial audiences.
• Demonstrates excellent attention to detail, organisation and communication skills.

· Resilience in working under pressure, ability, and willingness to both give and take constructive feedback. 

· Bring ideas for improvements and is open and honest in all communications where relevant and appropriate. 

• Ability to work with the Chief Operating Officer to develop the formulation of long-term financial plans and strategies for the society and its ancillary charities.

Desirable Skills

· Specialist knowledge of Charities, including Charity SORP guidance and procedures, underpinned by strong theoretical knowledge and practical experience. 

· Experience of working for a trade onion or a membership organisation.

· Tax and charities law, including a good understanding of partially exempt VAT status.

 What we offer

As a progressive and ethical not-for-profit organisation, we offer a range of benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. We are a London Living Wage and a Disability Confident – Committed employer.

Benefits include:

• Competitive salary
• Cycle-to-work scheme.
• Death-in-service benefit (8 x salary)
• Employee assistance programme
• Flexible, hybrid working practices.
• Family-friendly, disability-confident inclusive culture
• Generous annual leave, including all bank holidays.
• Salary exchange pension scheme
• Interest-free annual travel card loan
• *Office closure over Christmas
• Private healthcare

*Colleagues can work over the Christmas period, although the building is closed. For those who wish to take additional time off, colleagues take these days from their annual leave allowance.

As an employer, we nurture a working environment in which staff can grow and develop. We recognise the value of flexibility in the way we work with a positive culture of hybrid working practices.

Inclusion, diversity, and representation are at the core of our values, and we work to tackle structural discrimination and prejudice. Part of this commitment means that we are looking to increase diversity in our organisation at all levels. We strongly encourage applications from a broad range of social, cultural, educational, and underrepresented backgrounds

Cerebra is the national charity dedicated to improving the lives of children with neurological conditions and their families. We provide vital research, support, and practical solutions that empower families facing complex challenges.

With an annual income of £3 million and a headcount of 68 employees, we have ambitious plans to double our income between 2025 and 2027, ensuring we can extend our impact, reach more families, and drive real change. To achieve this, we are investing in fundraising innovation, income generating ventures, and strategic partnerships, alongside enhancing our brand to increase our national recognition.

Our work is underpinned by our values ensuring that everything we do aligns with our mission to create a better world for children with neurological conditions.

This is an incredibly exciting time to join Cerebra, as we are preparing to launch our new strategy and brand. The COO is a vital leadership role that will support the drive towards even greater impact for children and families across the UK.

Our Services

Sleep Advice Service

Cerebra understands that if you have a child that doesn’t sleep, the whole family suffers. Many children with neurological conditions suffer from disrupted sleep. Our sleep advice service provides bespoke advice and support so that everyone can get a good night’s sleep.

Legal Rights Service

Our Legal Rights Service provides help and support to families of children with neurological conditions when they are faced with barriers and difficulties in accessing statutory support services they are entitled to. The service provides information on their legal entitlements.

Book and Toy Library Service

Our specialist postal lending library contains a wide range of books for both adults and children, plus a selection of sensory toys specifically chosen for children with a neurological condition.

Innovation and Product Design Service

Our Innovation Service designs and builds bespoke products that cater to the specific needs of children with neurological conditions. The aim of the service is to make products that are desirable and exciting, therefore promoting social inclusion, peer acceptance and enabling children to participate in everyday activities that are so often close to them.

Information Products

Cerebra publishes different information products to help families with a child with a neurological condition. Our information products offer comprehensive, up-to-date support and research-driven strategies to assist families with a wide range of issues.

Buzgi and Toy Adaptation Service

Cerebra designs and builds bespoke assistive equipment for disabled children, this includes creating custom mobility aids, switch‑adapted toys, and other innovative solutions to help children access play, learning, and independence.

The Bugzi - a mini powered wheelchair for children offers many children their first experience of independent mobility. It uses either a joystick or switches and adaptable seating for complex needs, and helps develop spatial awareness, confidence, and early mobility skills. The Bugzi is available through a national loan scheme.

Additionally, we operate commercial services (including a web shop) to supplement our income to support children and their families.

Our services are provided to families free of charge.

Job Title:

Chief Operating Officer

Reports To:

Chief Executive Officer

Direct reports:

3 senior managers (Finance (headcount of 3), HR (headcount of 1), IT (headcount of 5))

Purpose of the Role:

The Chief Operating Officer will play a vital role in supporting the Chief Executive Officer, Board and Leadership Team to deliver Cerebra’s vision and ambitious strategic aims. The Chief Operating Officer will provide strategic leadership and operational management across key areas within Cerebra including:

• Operational Systems
• Governance
• Compliance
• Finance and Growth

This is a pivotal executive leadership role, responsible for driving organisational performance, sustainability and growth. The COO will translate Cerebra’s strategic ambitions into effective operational delivery, ensuring robust governance, financial stewardship and a high-performing, values-led culture.

As a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board, the COO will lead core operational services and commercial activity, enabling the charity to maximise impact and generate sustainable income in support of its charitable objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Executive Leadership

• Partner with the CEO and Board to deliver strategic priorities, growth and long-term sustainability
• Collaboration with the Director’s Group to ensure strategic alignment across the charity. The Director’s Group consists of:

            Chief Executive Officer

            Chief Operating Officer

            Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications

            Director of Research and Support Services

• Provide expert advice on finance, operations, commercial performance and organisational risk
• Lead organisational planning, business continuity, and operational resilience
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability and inclusion

Finance, Commercial & Sustainability

• Lead financial strategy, planning and performance, ensuring long-term sustainability
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow and financial controls
• Lead and develop Cerebra’s strategy for commercial income , ensuring alignment with charitable objectives
• Support funding growth through strong financial insight and business case development
• Ensure robust financial governance, audit and compliance

Operations & Infrastructure

• Lead and strengthen operational functions including HR, IT, governance and administration
• Ensure effective systems, processes and infrastructure that enable growth, efficiency and impact
• Oversee procurement, contracts, facilities, and organisational compliance
• Drive innovation and value for money across operations

People & Culture

• Champion a positive, inclusive and high-performing organisational culture
• Oversee HR strategy, workforce planning and leadership development
• Ensure compliance with employment law and best practice
• Promote wellbeing, engagement and organisational effectiveness

Digital & Technology

• Provide strategic oversight of IT, data and digital development
• Ensure systems are secure, resilient and aligned to organisational needs
• Leverage data and technology to improve insight, decision-making and organisational impact

Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Ensure effective governance frameworks, risk management and regulatory compliance
• Support the CEO and Board with high-quality reporting and strategic insight
• Lead safeguarding, data protection and organisational risk strategy
• Drive a strong culture of accountability and ethical practice

Leadership & Management

• Lead and develop a small senior team across finance, HR and IT
• Build capability, strengthen performance, and embed a collaborative culture
• Model Cerebra’s values and leadership behaviours

Key Attributes

• Strategic and commercially minded leader with strong operational delivery experience
• Strong financial leadership and business acumen
• Proven track record of driving income growth, sustainability and organisational performance
• Skilled in governance, risk and stakeholder engagement

Please see attached job description for the Person Specification.

Are you a skilled fundraiser with a talent for crafting compelling bids and building strong relationships with funders? Nottingham Women’s Centre is looking for a Trusts and Grants Officer to help secure vital income and support life-changing services for women.

We are a vibrant, feminist organisation dedicated to helping women overcome barriers, amplify their voices and build better futures. Through services including counselling, advice, wellbeing activities and campaigning, we create opportunities for women to thrive. 

The Trusts and Grants Officer will lead on trusts and grants fundraising, researching and developing opportunities with charitable trusts, foundations and statutory funders. You’ll write high-quality applications and reports, manage a pipeline of funding bids, and build strong, lasting relationships with funders to secure significant income. 

You’ll work closely with colleagues across the organisation to gather data, develop budgets and evidence impact, helping to create compelling cases for support that reflect the difference our services make. You’ll also play a key role in monitoring income, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring excellent stewardship and reporting. 

We’re looking for someone with proven experience securing grants, strong research and organisational skills, and excellent written communication skills. You’ll be confident managing multiple deadlines, using data to inform your work, and building positive, professional relationships. A commitment to feminist values and equality is essential.

You’ll join a supportive, values-led organisation where your work will have a direct and meaningful impact. We offer flexible and hybrid working, generous leave, and a strong focus on wellbeing and collaboration. 

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in sustaining and growing services that support women across Nottingham.

Please review the full Trusts and Grants Officer job description below for further details.

Finance Officer
Full-Time | London | £40,000

Prospectus are delighted to be supporting a wonderful membership body in their search for a Finance Officer. You will be proactive, detail orientated and play a key role in ensuring the smooth running of their financial operations. You will have experience managing payroll, bookkeeping and will be an experienced user of Sage 50. You will be collaborative, a good communicator and comfortable working with stakeholders at all levels. You will bring a high level of accuracy, work efficiently and be able to prioritise effectively.

You will be an experienced Finance Officer, who is AAT or part-qualified (ACA, ACCA, CIMA), or have relevant equivalent experience. As the organisation’s Finance Officer, you will be responsible for the day-to-day financial operations of the charity, with a primary focus on bookkeeping, payroll and banking. You will also contribute to wider financial processes, such as audit support, and helping to strengthen the organisations financial policies and procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain Sage 50 Accounts, including sales and purchase ledgers, and bank receipts/payments
• Process and verify expenses, grants, and prize claims
• Analyse and post credit card transactions
• Manage and process supplier and staff payments
• Perform bank and investment account reconciliations
• Handle accounts queries from staff, trustees, and suppliers
• Prepare monthly payroll and pension contributions
• Maintain and reconcile the fixed asset register
• Post and update prepayments and accruals
• Support the annual audit process
• Provide ad hoc support to the Finance Director

To Apply Please Submit:

• Your CV, outlining your relevant experience and skills
• A cover letter demonstrating how your experience aligns to the role, and what skills you will bring

At Prospectus we invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you with your application. We welcome all candidates to apply, regardless of age, sex/gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status or pregnancy/maternity. If you have any disability and require reasonable adjustment/s to any part of the process then please contact Shannon Sanderson at Prospectus.
 

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.

What you’ll be doing: 

• Managing the organisation’s financial responsibilities, working to tight deadlines, and a varied workload across different areas of responsibility, particularly in relation to financial reporting. As well as ensuring that financial processes are accurate, up to date and compliant with statutory requirements

• Taking a proactive approach to maintaining efficient office systems and operations, ensuring that orders are processed and providing support for the general up-keep of the office equipment 

• Contributing to project delivery by supporting the team with a range of ongoing administrative and organisational tasks, which requires flexibility and able to manage a varied workload across different areas of responsibility.

What we’re looking for: 

• We are looking for someone with a strong level of experience in managing the financial operations of a small organisation, ensuring that systems and processes are both robust and efficient. This includes experience of financial forecasting, reconciliations and, where appropriate, introducing or improving financial systems. 

• The postholder must be able to communicate financial information clearly to a range of stakeholders with differing levels of financial understanding, both verbally and through written reports or presentations relating to the organisation’s finances and funded projects. 

• Strong organisational and administrative skills are essential. The role requires the ability to manage different aspects of project support, general administration and office management, while keeping the wider team informed of progress on outstanding tasks. 

If this role is of interest, please refer to the full job description and person specification for further details. 

We kindly ask recruiters or agencies not to contact us about this role as we're managing this process directly. Due to the volume of agency enquiries, we're unfortunately unable to respond to each one individually.

Location: Reading, Hybrid (at least once per month to Reading Office)

Hours: 21 hours per week

Salary: £30,124 pro rata £17,097.41 for 21 hours per week

Contract Type: Permanent, Part Time

Campaign Closes: 22nd June 2026

Interviews: First stage: 24th/25th June 2026,

                Second stage: 30th June 2026

On occasion, we may close a vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We therefore encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible, as we will be shortlisting on a rolling basis.

Core Purpose

To deliver high quality, accurate, and responsive financial support that ensures the smooth operation of Make-A-Wish finance function. This role is central to maintaining the integrity of financial data through timely processing of transactions, effective communication with stakeholders, and diligent reconciliation of accounts. By supporting both internal teams and external partners, the role helps uphold financial compliance and operational efficiency, enabling Make-A-Wish to focus on granting life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses.

Key Responsibilities

Customer and Communication Support

• Monitor the finance mailbox daily, ensuring all emails are reviewed and responded to in a timely, professional, and accurate manner. Provide first-line support for internal and external customer queries, escalating complex or unresolved issues to the appropriate team member or manager.
• Handle incoming calls to the finance team, offering courteous and knowledgeable assistance. Accurately log call details and follow up on outstanding queries to ensure resolution and customer satisfaction.

Sales and Purchase Processing

• Process sales invoices accurately and efficiently in accordance with MAW’s financial procedures, ensuring correct coding, VAT treatment, and timely dispatch to customers.
• Set up new customers and suppliers on the finance system, verifying all required documentation and approvals are in place. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records to support compliance and audit readiness.
• Process purchase ledger invoices (approx. 360 per month), ensuring they are matched to purchase orders, coded correctly, and approved in line with internal controls. Resolve discrepancies promptly to avoid payment delays.
• Create payment runs and upload onto the bank for approval, ensuring approvals are obtained in a timely manner

Reconciliations and Debt Management

• Perform supplier statement reconciliations regularly, identifying and resolving aged or unmatched items. Liaise with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure accounts are accurate and up to date.
• Monitor outstanding sales invoices, escalating overdue items to the relevant ‘requestor’ or budget holder. Support the credit control process by providing timely updates and assisting with follow-up actions.
• Conduct income reconciliations on a regular basis, ensuring all income is accurately recorded and discrepancies are investigated and resolved.
• Reconcile balance sheet accounts as assigned, maintaining clear audit trails and supporting documentation for all entries.

Expense and Credit Card Management

• Process monthly credit card statements, ensuring all transactions are supported by receipts, correctly coded, and approved in line with company policy.
• Review and process employee expense claims, checking for accuracy, policy compliance, and appropriate authorisation before submission for payment.

Inventory and Stock Control

• Conduct stock takes at agreed intervals, working with relevant departments to ensure accurate counts and investigate variances. Support the maintenance of accurate stock records in the finance system.

Financial Recording and Reporting

• Post and process journal entries for accruals, prepayments, and other adjustments to ensure the general ledger reflects accurate and complete financial information. Maintain supporting documentation for all entries.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify process improvements and opportunities for automation, making recommendations to line manager and supporting implementation

General and Ad-Hoc Support

• Support with ad-hoc finance tasks as required, including data entry, reporting, and assisting with audits or internal reviews.
• Provide cover for team members during periods of absence, ensuring continuity of service and workload management. Take on additional duties as appropriate to the level of the role and contribute to team objectives.

Essential Criteria

• Proven experience in a finance or accounts role, with a solid understanding of financial processes such as invoicing, reconciliations, and ledger management.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and financial reporting.
• GCSE Maths or equivalent, grade 4/5 (C) or above.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to respond professionally to internal and external queries.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing workload effectively and meeting deadlines.
• Proficient in using finance systems, particularly Xero and Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential information with integrity and discretion.
• Strong organisational skills and a methodical approach to problem-solving.
• Willingness to learn
• Positive and ‘can do’ attitude

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working within a charity, non-profit, or mission-driven organisation.
• Experience with stock control or inventory management.
• Knowledge of VAT and basic accounting principles.
• AAT qualification or working towards a relevant finance qualification.
• Experience supporting audits or financial reviews.
• Willingness to take on additional responsibilities and support team members during absences.
• Proficiency in finance systems, Lightyear & JOIIN

Last year, 124,000 young people approached their council for help because they were homeless or at risk of homelessness. The figure has risen year-on-year for eight consecutive years, highlighting the scale of a challenge that continues to affect young people across the UK. Yet we believe the resources, expertise and influence already exist within the built environment sector to help tackle youth homelessness. That is where LandAid comes in.

We bring together the UK property industry, harnessing its capital, assets, skills and networks to help end youth homelessness. We do this by awarding grants to frontline charities, providing financial support, brokering free professional advice and expertise, and creating opportunities for our partners to make a meaningful difference to the lives of young people.

The Chief Financial and Operating Officer plays a critical role in helping us achieve our ambitions. A key member of the Leadership Team, you will ensure we have the financial insight, operational effectiveness and governance frameworks needed to deliver our strategy successfully. A key priority will be to provide high-quality management information, analysis and forecasting that supports confident decision-making across the organisation.

You will also help us continue to strengthen our internal operations, driving continuous improvement and ensuring our systems, processes and technology support a more efficient, evidence-led organisation. Working closely with our Board committees, you will oversee financial stewardship, risk management and governance, helping to ensure LandAid remains resilient and well positioned for future growth and impact. Beyond finance, you will oversee our outsourced HR and IT functions, ensuring we receive high-quality and cost-effective support and have robust systems and policies in place, while also helping us continue our commitment to being an excellent place to work.

We are looking for a qualified accountant who brings senior finance leadership experience, either at executive director level within an organisation of similar scale or at deputy director level within a larger organisation. Experience within the charity sector would be valuable, as would knowledge of the built environment, capital investment or social investment. Most importantly, we are looking for someone who combines technical expertise with a collaborative leadership style; someone colleagues trust, learn from and enjoy working with.

Diversity in all its forms matters to us, and we especially welcome applications from qualified women, people who are from black and minority communities, who are LGBTQ+, who live with a disability, and/or haven’t been privately educated.

Our people are our greatest asset and you would be joining an exceptional team united by a shared commitment to ending youth homelessness. If that mission resonates with you, we would love to hear from you.

To download a full copy of the candidate brief and learn more about the role, please click the ‘Apply’ button, where you will be redirected to the website of our recruitment partner, Tall Roots. 

Applications should include a CV and cover letter (no more than two pages), explaining your motivation for applying for the role, along with how you meet the Knowledge & Experience section of the Person Specification.

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.

Our client is a world-renowned, independent policy institute based in London, dedicated to building a sustainably secure, prosperous, and just world through the advancement of international relations. Following a period of rapid growth, the organisation is currently undergoing an exciting phase of transformation—consolidating and simplifying their internal structures, modernising their financial systems, and refining their strategic business model. 

Goodman Masson are exclusively partnered with this prestigious institute to recruit for a high-calibre Finance Business Partner to join their dynamic central finance team.

This role would suit an ACA qualified auditor looking to make their first move into industry or someone who has already established themselves as a qualified Finance Business Partner within the not for profit sector. 

The Opportunity

Reporting directly to the Finance Director, you will act as a vital strategic partner to the institutes core international research programmes (covering Africa, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East). This is not a traditional back-office accounting role; you will actively bridge the gap between central finance and research directors, driving a culture of financial accountability and empowering non-financial stakeholders to make data-driven strategic decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Business Partnering: Build trusted relationships with budget holders and research colleagues, providing commercial acumen, financial insights, and expert analysis to improve financial performance. 

• Financial Planning & Analysis: Lead the annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting, and management reporting for dedicated programmes.

• Project & Grant Oversight: Oversee the financial health of complex research projects, ensuring accurate income recognition, monitoring variances, and ensuring strict compliance with complex funding/grant requirements.

• Commercial & Contract Management: Collaborate with the Contract Manager and Research Partnerships team to support project costing, ensure legal/financial terms are optimised, and manage audit processes for centre funding. 

• Continuous Improvement: Play a key role in change projects to modernise procedures, enhance internal financial controls, and improve the efficiency and value-add of the finance function.

• Statutory Support: Assist with the preparation of annual statutory accounts, including necessary disclosures and detailed analysis.

Essential Criteria: 

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, CIMA, ACCA or equivalent)
• Background within either external audit or a Business Partnering role within a similar organisation.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex financial metrics into clear, concise, and accessible insights for diverse, non-financial audiences.

Salary is £60,000 per annum + Excellent Benefits. 

Hybrid working with 2 days per week in the London office. 

Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis therefore please apply ASAP to ensure your details are considered. 

About Barnabas Aid

Barnabas International is a large family of Christian ministries and charities focused on giving practical support to suffering, abandoned and persecuted Christians around the world. The ministry was founded in 1993, and since then, it has funded projects in more than 100 countries, providing hope and help to millions of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Some of our key projects include supplying food aid, medical supplies, educational and vocational training, Bibles, micro-enterprise, disaster relief, help for victims of violence, and support for pastors and church leaders. Barnabas Aid also provides advocacy for religious freedom, especially for persecuted and suffering Christians.

Barnabas is a Christian ministry and a charity. Employees are expected to subscribe to the Vision, Mission, Value and Statement of Faith, and their work may be viewed as being vocational.

There is an occupational requirement for applicants to be practising Christians, who are engaged in their local church, in order to be able to carry out our roles.

About This Vacancy

We are looking for a motivated and organised Project Officer to join our International Programmes Team on a fixed-term basis for one year, covering a period of maternity leave.

Overview

The Project Officer will be part of a regional team that works with new and existing partners to design, deliver and learn from projects in line with the organisation’s mission. The team supports the full project cycle: partner engagement, application review, due diligence, project design, contracting, implementation support, monitoring, evaluation and project closure, maintaining accurate records throughout, in close collaboration with the Quality Team (Director and Quality Assurance and Impact (MEAL) Specialists).

The Project Officer will work collaboratively across the regional team, providing flexible support and surge capacity during peak periods and responding to emerging priorities as required. Under the supervision of Programme Managers and the Regional Director, they will also take day-to-day responsibility for a portfolio of assigned partners and specific projects, ensuring timely progression from concept to completion and that documentation, compliance, quality assurance and learning requirements are met. This includes working with the Quality Team to integrate appropriate MEAL approaches, support data quality and ensure learning is captured and shared.

Key Responsibilities

·Project Identification and Evaluation

oIdentify and assess project concepts and proposals with assigned partners, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy, feasibility, risk, safeguarding considerations and expected impact.

oContribute to emergency or rapid-response programming when required, including providing surge support to colleagues and helping to coordinate time-critical actions.

oSupport partner mapping and relationship management activities, helping to identify potential partners and project opportunities.

oUndertake contextual and partner due diligence research to inform project design, risk management and decision-making.

oPrepare high-quality proposals for internal review and project governance processes, including summaries of recommendations, risks and mitigation actions with the support of the Quality Team and in line with standards set by them.

·Grant Administration

oSupport Programme Managers and the Regional Director through the full project cycle, from initial scoping and proposal development through contracting, implementation support, monitoring, evaluation and closure.

oManage any individually assigned projects through the full project cycle, from initial scoping and proposal development through contracting, implementation support, monitoring, evaluation and closure.

oEnsure projects comply with organisational policies and procedures (including safeguarding and due diligence), and any relevant donor, statutory and partner requirements.

oEnsure the fulfilment of any actions mandated by the Programmes Subcommittee.

oTrack delivery against agreed plans, budgets and results frameworks; flag variances, support problem-solving with partners and colleagues, and recommend adjustments where needed.

oWork with the Quality Team (Director and Quality Assurance and Impact (MEAL) Specialists) to agree proportionate MEAL plans for assigned projects (e.g., indicators, data sources, reporting schedules), and to strengthen quality assurance throughout implementation.

·Stakeholder Engagement

oAct as a key point of contact for assigned partners, working closely with Programme Managers and the wider regional team to coordinate support and decision-making.

oMaintain regular communication with partners to provide guidance throughout proposal development and implementation, including on reporting requirements, procurement expectations and agreed outputs/outcomes.

oCoordinate with the Quality Team (Director and Quality Assurance and Impact (MEAL) Specialists) to support partner capacity strengthening on quality assurance and MEAL requirements, and to address quality or evidence gaps identified during implementation.

oDevelop familiarity with other organisations working in the Region and look for opportunities to collaborate with and learn from them.

·Budget Administration

oSupport sound financial management across the Regional Team and for assigned projects, including budget review, payment scheduling, verification of supporting documentation and reconciliation of expenditure against budgets.

oFor approved projects, ensure that all finance processes are completed to facilitate payments.

oPrepare clear updates and financial summaries for Programme Managers, the Regional Director and other internal stakeholders, maintaining an appropriate audit trail.

·Reporting and Documentation

oMaintain complete and accurate project documentation for assigned projects, including due diligence records, agreements, correspondence, partner reports and closure documents.

oMaintain project and partner information in relevant systems and trackers, producing reports and analysis as required.

oMonitor progress and results, review partner narrative and financial reports, support evaluations where appropriate, and ensure project learning is captured and shared within the team.

oWork with the Quality Team (Director and Quality Assurance and Impact (MEAL) Specialists) to review project evidence, ensure data quality standards are met, and support evaluations, reviews and learning products as required.

oCoordinate meetings and follow-up actions (including agendas, minutes and action logs) to ensure decisions are recorded and progressed.

Other duties

The above is not an exhaustive list of duties. From time to time, the postholder may be asked or required to carry out additional tasks, or duties, over and above their usual day to day activities. Employees are expected to work collaboratively across the regional team, including providing flexible support and surge cover as needed.

Person Requirement

Essential

·Experience in project administration or coordination, ideally in the charity, NGO or public sector.

·Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of partners and stakeholders across different cultures and contexts.

·Proficiency in MS Office suite and comfort using online systems for project tracking and document management.

• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to plan and manage multiple projects and deadlines.

·Strong attention to detail.

·Ability to work collaboratively and flexibly as part of a diverse, dispersed team.

·Ability to multitask and meet multiple deadlines under pressure.

·Familiarity with CRM or grant management systems (e.g. Salesforce)

Desirable

·Experience supporting monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL/MEAL) processes and/or producing donor-style reports, including working with quality assurance or MEAL specialists.-

·Additional languages relevant to the region

Person specification

·A strong commitment to the values and mission of Barnabas Aid, with an understanding of Christian principles and ethics in project management.

·High level of integrity, ethical conduct and professionalism

·Personal resilience and adaptability.

·Discretion and sensitivity with understanding of issues of confidentiality.

·A flexible approach to work, with a cooperative and collaborative attitude, ensuring excellent standards of service are always maintained.

From time to time, additional training, including safeguarding training, may be required.

The offer of employment will subject to the appropriate pre-employment checks such as references, qualifications, DBS criminal records, and eligibility to work in the UK.

How to Apply

Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter demonstrating how your skills and experience make you a good fit for this role and for the mission of Barnabas Aid.

Job Title: Development Officer

Reports to: Senior Development Manager

Location: Contracted to Breaking Barrier’ office in London, Birmingham or Manchester, with some expectation of travel 

Terms: 5 days per week (37.5 hours) but open to part-time (minimum 30 hours) and flexible working arrangements

Contract: Permanent

Salary:   £28,000 - £33,500 (Depending on the location and experience)

Purpose of the Role

The fundraising team at Breaking Barriers generates income from a range of sources: trusts and foundations, statutory and lottery, corporate and major donors. We sit within the wider Income and Engagement Directorate, alongside communications and public fundraising, and work closely together to drive income and engagement from funders, partners and supporters who share our vision that every refugee can access meaningful employment and build a new life. 

The Development Officer manages our portfolio of small trusts and foundations (grants up to £10,000), securing income and developing relationships from existing donors and new prospects. The role involves writing compelling funding proposals, delivering effective stewardship, and meeting all reporting requirements to a high standard.

Alongside portfolio management, the post-holder co-ordinates our fundraising events programme, ensuring both online and in-person events deepen engagement with our cause. The role also provides active support across fundraising appeals and the statutory, lottery and major donor income streams, including prospect research. The post-holder will also contribute to the operational efficiency of the fundraising team through effective administration.

This is a varied, fast-paced role that will suit someone with strong writing skills, attention to detail and a genuine commitment to our mission. It offers real scope to develop knowledge and skills across a wide range of fundraising disciplines within a supportive and ambitious team.

Key Responsibilities

1. Income generation (60%)

· Manage and develop a portfolio of trusts and foundations awarding grants of up to £10,000, delivering tailored stewardship and relationship management across both warm relationships and cold prospects.

· Plan, write and submit compelling funding applications based on a clear understanding of Breaking Barriers' programmes, funding needs and funder requirements.

· Manage all reporting requirements within your portfolio, ensuring reports are completed accurately and to deadline.

· Undertake research to identify new prospects, gathering relevant background information including funding interests, grant levels and connection points with Breaking Barriers.

· Ensure all income and pipeline activity is accurately recorded and kept up to date in Salesforce.

· Act as the philanthropy lead for the Big Give Challenge Appeal.

2. Fundraising Events and Stewardship (20%)

· Co-ordinate Breaking Barriers' fundraising events programme, working across the fundraising team and wider Income and Engagement Directorate to shape a calendar that inspires and engages funders, supporters and senior volunteers.

· Manage event logistics including venue sourcing, guest list coordination, on-the-day support and follow-up.

· Lead on the development of stewardship materials for philanthropy audiences, including impact updates, newsletters and event collateral.

3. Prospect Research and Fundraising Administration (15%)

· Carry out prospect research to support the major gifts, statutory and lottery fundraising pipelines, producing clear, well-structured briefings for senior colleagues.

· Build and maintain funder profiles, recording prospect activity, research findings and pipeline information accurately in Salesforce.

· Support colleagues in the finance team with gift administration and thanking processes.

· Contribute to the directorate's approach to data quality and CRM best practice.

4. Other Responsibilities (5%)

· Participate in cross-team projects to build a thorough understanding of Breaking Barriers' work and wider activities.

· Undertake any other duties that may reasonably be required within the scope of this role.

· Demonstrate Breaking Barriers' values of being welcoming, collaborative, mission-led and entrepreneurial.

Person Specification
Essential

· Demonstrable knowledge of and/or interest in the refugee or employment sectors.

· Experience of writing compelling funding proposals or other relevant persuasive content for different audiences.

· Understanding of the principles of trusts and foundations fundraising, whether through direct experience or study.

· Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesise information and present it clearly.

· Excellent organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

· Strong attention to detail.

· Proactive and self-motivated, with the ability to take initiative and problem-solve.

· Able to build effective working relationships with colleagues at all levels.

· Confident using Microsoft Office and comfortable learning new systems.

 Desirable

· Experience of trusts and foundations fundraising in the charity sector.

· Familiarity with major donor, statutory or lottery fundraising.

· Experience using Salesforce or another fundraising CRM.

· Knowledge of GDPR and data protection principles as they apply to fundraising.

Other considerations:

· Breaking Barriers is committed to protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect and for their views, wishes and beliefs to be fully taken into account when deciding action. 

· We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion or belief. 

· Breaking Barriers particularly welcomes applicants with experience of seeking asylum and/or a refugee background. 

As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, we are committed to offering an accessible recruitment process and guarantee an interview to all applicants with a disability who meet the minimum criteria for the role. 

Involve Northwest is an innovative, community-based organisation with an approach that is grounded in our core belief that the services we offer are free, confidential, and are motivated for public benefit, and not profit.

Job Title: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Location: The Community Village, Rock Ferry, and the Wirral community.

Working Pattern: 35 Hours per week (to be discussed)

Salary: £70,000 - £75,000 per annum (FTE) Depending on experience

Reporting To: Board of Directors

Responsible For: Operations & HR Director, Finance Manager and supporting Consultants.

This role is subject to a DBS check and subscription to the update service in line with the internal Safer Recruitment Policy.

Core Responsibilities

1. Lead the organisation, establish its standards, and represent it as the public face and ambassador.

2. Serve as the organisation’s figurehead while strengthening and expanding relationships with commissioners and key stakeholders.

3. Define the strategic direction in collaboration with the Board of Trustees.

4. Implement the strategic plan and drive sustainable organisational growth.

5. Provide strong financial leadership, including budgeting, forecasting, income generation, and asset management.

6. Prioritise and advance the diversification of funding streams with overall accountability.

7. Ensure effective risk management and regulatory compliance including GDPR, H&S, Safeguarding, Charity Governance.

8. Build and develop a strong workforce while fostering a unified, one-team culture.

Leadership And Managerial Responsibilities

• Lead the organisation, providing direct line management to the Operations and Human Resources Director, Finance Manager and Consultants.

• Deliver strong, visible leadership across the organisation.

• Accountable for shaping, influencing, and delivering both internal and external operational strategies.

• Maintain strategic oversight of existing contracts and services, ensuring effective delivery and performance.

• Develop, monitor, and review key operational resources, including business plans, business continuity plans, and risk registers.

Strategic Responsibilities

• Scope and drive forward funding & partnership opportunities in support of sustainability and growth.

• Grow Involve Northwest’s network of commissioners and strategic/mutually beneficial partnerships.

• Identify the opportunities for collaboration and diversification.

• Consider the organisation, its destination and routes to that destination with ‘out of the box’ thinking.

• Reviewing all aspects of service provision and the roles of Involve Northwest personnel.

• Oversee management of Involve Northwest assets, including any buildings.

• Assist in identifying new premises and the basis upon which they are occupied (purchased/leased) in the context of Involve Northwest’s needs.

• Lead on organisational change; provide governance around internal resources, communication and marketing, and growth.

• Lead on all funding opportunities, including the scoping and writing of bids and responses to tender invitations, expressions of interest and soft market testing as appropriate.

• Overseeing Involve Northwest’s communication and marketing strategy.

Partnerships Management

Involve Northwest is predominantly funded through contracts with central and local government. The successful person will interface directly with funders and commissioners, managing those relationships and attending contract meetings where appropriate. Attend external meetings/groups and act as the ‘face’ of the organisation, in collaboration with the Management Team.

The role will focus on growing Involve Northwest’s influence within our network of commissioners and strategic/mutually beneficial partnerships to secure future commissions in new delivery themes or areas in the Northwest that align with our strategy and vision.

You would also be expected to identify, explore, and develop new partnerships outside Involve Northwest’s traditional stakeholders with organisations in both the public and private sectors.

This role profile is not exhaustive and is subject to review in conjunction with the post holder and according to future changes/developments within the Company.

Company Duties and Responsibilities:

• Evaluate and work in line with statutory requirements and company policies and procedures, including ISO9001:2015, the Companies Act, Charity Law and UK GDPR.

• Work to Involve Northwest’s Safeguarding procedures.

• Represent the charity in the best manner.

• Demonstrate a commitment to the vision, values, and strategic aims of Involve Northwest.

• Maintain high standards of professionalism and keep abreast of current legislation, standards, best practice and maintain a focus of continuous improvement.

• Work within Involve Northwest’s practice standards.

Person Specification – Essential

Experience

• Significant experience in a senior management role.

• Development of a strategy with a proven record of implementation, tracking and monitoring progress.

• Experience in securing year-on-year sustainable funding.

• The ability to link operational delivery with the strategic plan to achieve its stated objectives.

• Track record in delivering business change.

• Risk management, business continuity and disaster recovery planning and testing

• Working with commissioners/grant funders at senior levels.

• Significant experience in overseeing bid/tender writing at an operational and strategic level, with the ability to present at all levels and deliver reports as required.

• Strong decision-making skills.

• Budget management experience.

• Developing communication and delivery strategies.

• Working in the third sector would be useful but is not essential.

Knowledge and Skills

• Excellent people skills, including communication, relationship building and emotional intelligence.

• Proven track record in change management.

• Problem-solving, planning skills and innovative thinking.

• The ability to implement strategies to meet the organisation’s goals agreed with the board of directors.

• Understanding the importance of excellent employee management and have the ability to motivate.

• Excellent organisational skills, results-driven, with a clear focus on outcomes.

• Consider the organisation, its destination and routes to that destination with ‘out of the box’ thinking.

Personal Attributes

• Innovative thinking.

• A belief in the Organisation’s service delivery and objectives.

• Enthusiasm and a catalyst to motivate others.

• Be a visionary for the organisation and lead by example

• Good communication skills with excellent people skills

• Be compassionate and empathetic and have a high level of integrity.

• The ability to deliver honest feedback in a direct but emotionally intelligent way.

• Act with integrity and respect when working with all clients, agencies, and individuals.

• Flexible, adaptable, and an excellent active listener.

• Be a team player with an open and honest manner and be able to build effective relationships.

• High level of personal resilience concerning workload and ability to discharge tasks.

• Excellent organisational skills, hard-working, results-driven, with a clear focus on outcomes.

As a community-focused employer who values the health and well-being of our employees, Involve Northwest encourages a positive work-life balance and actively supports our staff so they can better support the community.

We offer a range of benefits to fulfil this, including:

· 25 Days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays

· Birthday Day Off

· Company Pension & Health Cash Plan (eligible after 3 months)

· Extra days of annual leave for service loyalty

Please note this role is subject to a 6-month probation period, 2 satisfactory references, right to work and DBS check.

Involve Northwest is committed to the welfare and safety of all individuals, particularly those who are vulnerable or at risk. We recognise our responsibility to protect the well-being of children, young people, and adults who may come into contact with our charity and its projects. We have a clear Safer Recruitment Policy in place, which is applied to all staff, including third-party individuals and volunteers.

The COO will translate BLiM's mission and strategy and ensure its well-run, properly resourced, with its ambitious day-to-day delivery. You will free the CEO to focus on strategic leadership and external influence by owning operations, people management, financial oversight and internal systems.

The COO will be a senior leader who shapes organisational culture, makes operational decisions, manages complex stakeholder relationships and drives the performance of a passionate, high-commitment team. You will be the person the organisation looks to when it needs clarity, stability and momentum.

The COO joins at a moment of leadership transition following the departure of BLiM's co-founder and Director of Operations.

Why Join Us:

Black Lives in Music (BLiM) is a not-for-profit dedicated to advancing racial equity across the UK music industry. We amplify the voices of Black artists, music professionals and communities; drive systemic change; and hold the industry accountable for meaningful progress. Through research, advocacy, programming and strategic partnerships, BLiM creates the conditions for Black talent to thrive.

BLiM has published ground-breaking research including the Being Black in the UK Music Industry report, produced the UK's first Black classical music festival in Classically Black, influenced government policy on live music licensing, and built a network of over 100 partner organisations across the four nations. BLiM is now entering a new phase of its development, with a strengthened leadership team, a Target Operating Model designed to carry the organisation beyond its founding era, and an ambition to become the UK's most influential voice for racial equity in music.

Person Specification 

Essential

• Significant experience in a senior operational leadership role, ideally as a COO, Head of Operations or Director of Operations in a charity, social enterprise or purpose-driven organisation.

• Demonstrable track record of building and improving operational infrastructure: systems, processes, policies and ways of working that make organisations more effective and resilient.

• Proven people management experience, including line management of senior staff, performance development, recruitment and team culture-building.

• Strong financial literacy, including experience of budget management, grant compliance, financial reporting and working with a board finance function.

• Experience of leading or supporting governance processes, including board reporting, risk management and compliance.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex operational information into clear, accessible reports and presentations for senior stakeholders.

• A genuine, demonstrable commitment to racial equity and an understanding of the specific systemic barriers faced by Black professionals, artists and communities.

• The emotional intelligence and interpersonal skill to lead with care, build trust quickly and navigate complex relationships under pressure.

• The resilience and adaptability to thrive in a small, fast-paced, mission-driven organisation where the work is varied, the stakes are high and no day is the same.

Desirable

• Experience of working in or with the music industry, creative industries or arts and culture sector.

• Familiarity with Arts Council England funding frameworks, charity law and the regulatory environment for non-profit organisations.

• Experience of implementing or managing a CRM system, project management platform or other operational technology.

• Knowledge of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) frameworks and how to embed inclusive practice into operational systems and culture.

• Experience of leading an organisation through a period of significant change, transition or growth.

• An existing network within the UK music sector, creative industries or racial equity and social justice space.

At BLiM, we're interviewing on a rolling basis, so we'd encourage you to apply sooner rather than later!

To be considered for a first interview, please include a Cover Letter with your application. This initial conversation will be relaxed and informal, and we'll take you through the full interview process together so you know exactly what to expect at every stage.