Finance and support services officer jobs

Who we are, what we do

Father Hudson’s Caritas (FHC) is a social and community care charity working across the Catholic Archdiocese of Birmingham.  For over 124 years we have responded to need, helping people to lead fulfilled lives through our range of services and partnerships. Our work is rooted in a Catholic ethos and we welcome and support people of all faiths and none.  As an organisation we have continued to adapt our services to the changing needs of those who are most vulnerable; it is an exciting time to join our organisation as we deliver our new 3-year strategy.

The Role

As our Head of Finance, you will be a key member of FHC’s Senior Management Team, providing strategic and operational leadership across finance and the wider resources portfolio (Finance, IT, Estates and Facilities). Working closely with the CEO and Trustees, you will ensure strong financial planning, robust controls, clear reporting and regulatory compliance. 

As part of this senior role you will line manage the Finance, IT and Facilities Manager.  We’re looking for a values-led leader who will model FHC’s organisational values, including compassion, respect, collaboration and excellence. 

What we are looking for

You will be CCAB qualified and bring senior-level financial leadership experience with the ability to operate confidently in a complex, mission-driven social care environment.  We’re particularly keen to hear from candidates who can combine strong technical skills, a thirst for digital transformation and effective use of resources, alongside collaborative, person-centred leadership.

Location

The role is based at our modern, purpose-built Head Office in Coleshill – St George’s House, Gerards Way, Coleshill, B46 3FG.

Closing Date: Monday 1st June 2026

Interview Date: Thursday 11th June 2026

Grants and Information Officer

Professionals Aid Guild

At the Professionals Aid Guild, we are a non-profession-specific charity dedicated to improving lives and relieving poverty among professionals and graduates across the UK. We support individuals facing challenges such as redundancy, illness, disability, family breakdown, and financial hardship in retirement.

This is an exciting period of growth and development for the charity, offering the successful candidate a real opportunity to contribute to meaningful work and drive positive change.

Each year, we support hundreds of individuals through direct grants covering essential living costs, further and children’s education, household items, furniture, and critical repairs. These grants often have a life-changing impact. Alongside this, we collaborate with a wide network of organisations and professional bodies to provide more holistic and sustainable support.

Could you be part of our small, dedicated team making a big difference?

About the Role

As Grants and Information Officer, you will play a central role in delivering our services. You will manage grant applications from initial assessment through to decision and award, contribute to committee processes, and support the wider operations of the charity.

Key Details

• Reporting to: CEO
• Hours: Part-time (21 hours per week)
• Working pattern: Flexible and hybrid working available (minimum one day per week in the office, typically Thursday)
• Salary: £28,000 – £31,500 FTE

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays and Christmas closure
• Additional annual leave after three years’ service (up to 5 extra days)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Training and equipment provided

Key Responsibilities

Casework

• Manage applications from initial assessment through to committee review
• Liaise with beneficiaries and maintain accurate, confidential records
• Prepare agendas and take minutes for committee meetings
• Signpost applicants to other appropriate sources of support

Finance

• Administer grants within agreed limits
• Arrange payments to beneficiaries and service providers
• Support audit processes

Grants Management System

• Maintain and update the grants database (Benefactor)
• Produce reports and review system content as required

Administration & Resources

• Update and maintain internal resources, including application forms, guidance, and standard communications
• Support website content updates
• Maintain standard operating procedures
• Provide general office administration support

Additional Duties

• Attend and support the AGM and other organisational meetings
• Represent the charity externally when required
• Support the CEO with fundraising strategy and policy development
• Undertake other duties as required in a small team environment

About You

You will be:

• Educated to degree level
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Experienced in working with databases and updating websites
• Familiar with fundraising applications and/or the charity sector (ideally benevolent funds or welfare services)
• Knowledgeable about the UK statutory benefits system
• Familiar with accounting software such as Xero or Dext (desirable)
• Highly organised, with the ability to prioritise a varied workload
• Adaptable and comfortable working in a small team
• An excellent communicator, both written and verbal
• A collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills
• Confident in problem-solving and decision-making
• Sympathetic to the charity’s mission and values

How to Apply

Please submit your CV along with a supporting statement outlining how you meet the requirements for the role.

�� Closing date: 26 May 2026
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the vacancy may close early.

�� Interview date: Monday 15 June 2026
Please ensure availability on this date.

Somewhere in West Africa, a mission worker is sitting with a question about their monthly budget. In South Asia, another is preparing to extend their service and needs to understand what that means financially. Every one of our mission workers, serving in around 25 countries, depends on someone back home who understands their situation, knows their name, and helps them navigate the financial realities of life serving in mission.

We’re looking for someone who brings both financial competence and genuine warmth – someone who can manage budgets and reconciliations with accuracy, but who also understands that behind every spreadsheet is a person serving Jesus by making disciples. You’ll be the consistent, trusted point of contact for workers from the moment they join SIM through to when they return home, and every budget review, fund statement, and financial query in between is a chance to make them feel genuinely cared for.

If that sounds like the kind of work that excites you, then we are looking for someone who has experience in bookkeeping and financial management within a small to medium-sized organisation, and who also has experience in a finance customer services role.

Come and join our Team!

Please submit your application by 5pm on Thursday 14th May 2026.

Interviews will be held on Tuesday 19th May.

As Head of Finance, you will be a member of the Executive Team, supporting the Chief Executive with the overall direction and long-term financial viability of the Charity. You will be accountable for developing and implementing the organisation’s financial strategy, delivering effective financial planning, monitoring and reporting, and maintaining sound financial and risk management systems.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide sound financial advice to the Chief Executive, Board of Trustees and senior managers to support effective leadership and management of the Charity
• Lead financial planning, budgeting, cash flow management and resource allocation, ensuring strong processes for performance monitoring at all levels
• Establish and oversee financial reporting systems, monitoring key performance indicators and delivering management information to the Board
• Take responsibility for compliance with accounting, tax and regulatory requirements, ensuring internal financial systems and controls are robust and scalable
• Undertake the role of Company Secretary, ensuring all statutory and regulatory governance obligations are met
• Lead procurement of systems, products and services, driving cost savings and value for money in line with the Charity Governance Code
• Oversee relationships with banks, auditors, payroll providers, insurers and charity finance specialists, ensuring the Charity manages its assets effectively
• Ensure appropriate risk management techniques and financial controls are embedded at strategic and operational levels

About you:

This role will suit a fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with senior-level finance leadership experience in a charity or not-for-profit organisation of comparable scale. You will bring strong technical knowledge of Charity SORP, charity law and financial governance, a collaborative leadership style, and the confidence to operate with minimum direction in a small Executive Team. Experience of company secretarial duties and charity governance is essential.

Benefits:

• Private medical insurance provided through Bupa after 1 years’ service
• Continuous training and professional development opportunities
• Staff wellbeing events throughout the year
• Team building days
• Employee Assistance Programme - this is a scheme run by Dudley Lodge for its employees. It enables staff to gain access to qualified advisors for a wide range of services day or night.
• Cash plan - After 1 year’s continuous employment, you can opt for free cover under this Cash Plan policy.
• A pension scheme with Standard Life, Dudley Lodge contributes 5% towards your pension, also matching additional employee contributions up to 7.5%. The company will increase its contribution to 10% after an employee has reached their 10 years’ service, on condition employees contribute the same.
• Life Assurance - Group Life Assurance Policy with Unun Life.  Life. The scheme provides a tax-free benefit to all permanent employees, paying a lump sum amount of 2 x salary in the event of death in service.
• Free tea, coffee, water and fruit for all staff
• Enhanced holidays:
• 27 days plus 8 bank holidays - up to 5 years continuous employment
• 34 days plus 8 bank holidays - over 5 years continuous employment
• Flu Vaccine: For Staff that do not qualify for the flu vaccine through the NHS
• Bike (Cycle) Scheme: Staff can purchase a bike (max, £1000 or 50% of monthly contractual salary). The employee cycle loan request form should be completed for validation.
• Long Service Awards: We value our staff and to show recognition we offer long service awards.

Our Commitment Statement

Our expectation of all staff is to demonstrate kindness, empathy, and fairness to all.

Dudley Lodge strive to provide an inclusive working environment and experience, where employees can bring their best, and authentic self to work. Where difference is recognised, respected, valued, and celebrated.

Our approach to inclusion and diversity is rooted in listening, learning and acting. This includes conducting ongoing listening forums across the company, the implementation of Inclusion & Diversity talking/support groups, workshops and training, good quality supervision, surveys and collaborative working parties. All with the core aim to receive honest feedback, reflect and continuously strive to be the best that we can be. 

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.

Dudley Lodge is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Where Next is a well-established charity supporting adults with learning disabilities to live fulfilling, independent lives. We are looking for a capable and reliable Finance Officer to lead our day-to-day financial operations and support the organisation as we continue to grow.

The Role

This is a hands-on role with responsibility for the smooth running of all core finance functions, including:

• Payroll, pensions, and statutory returns
• Purchase and sales ledger (including varied client income streams)
• Bank reconciliations and cashflow management
• VAT returns (including partial exemption) and Gift Aid
• Monthly management accounts and reporting

You will be the go-to person for finance, working closely with the CEO and senior team to ensure strong financial control and provide clear, practical financial information.

About You

You will:

• Have solid experience in a finance or bookkeeping role
• Be confident managing end-to-end finance processes
• Be highly organised, accurate, and reliable
• Be comfortable working independently and taking ownership
• Ideally have experience with Xero, payroll, and VAT

Experience in the charity sector or working with restricted funding is a bonus, but not essential.

Why Join Where Next?

• Flexible working – part-time or full-time considered
• Hybrid working available
• A varied role with real responsibility
• Opportunity to grow into broader financial and organisational responsibilities
• A supportive, values-driven organisation where your work has real impact

Apply

If you’re looking for a role where you can combine strong finance skills with meaningful work, we’d love to hear from you.

We are open to shaping the scope of this role around the successful candidate, depending on experience and working pattern.

Help ensure strong financial foundations for a charity where people in later life can connect, belong and thrive.
Use your finance expertise to support meaningful community impact every day.

Evergreen Care UK is a relational charity rooted in a Christian ethos, guided by our values of Compassion, Dignity, Connection and Trust. We welcome and serve people of all faiths and none.

Through our community cafés and services, we support people in later life to remain independent, reduce loneliness, and stay connected to their communities. We believe ageing is something to be celebrated, and that every person has gifts, stories, and experiences worth valuing.

We are now looking for an experienced and trustworthy Finance Lead to play a vital role in the sustainability and growth of our organisation. This is a high-trust, part-time role where your work will directly enable Evergreen’s services to continue and expand.

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and Treasurer, you will bring clarity, insight and confidence to our financial management—supporting good decision-making, strong governance, and responsible stewardship of resources.

About the role

This is both a strategic and hands-on role. You will take ownership of financial reporting, year-end accounts, and internal controls, while ensuring the organisation remains compliant and financially well-managed.

You will:

• Prepare monthly management accounts and provide clear financial insight to leadership and trustees
• Lead the preparation of annual statutory accounts in line with charity SORP
• Support the independent examination process and ensure timely regulatory submissions
• Monitor budgets, cash flow and restricted funds, highlighting risks and opportunities
• Maintain strong financial controls and support good governance
• Provide oversight of bookkeeping and day-to-day financial processes

A collaborative and relational role

As part of a small team, how we work matters as much as what we do. You will work closely with colleagues, contributing to a culture of trust, collaboration and shared responsibility. Your role will help ensure that financial systems support—not hinder—the delivery of impactful, people-centred services.

Who we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who combines strong financial expertise with a thoughtful, values-led approach.

You will bring:

• Proven experience in a similar finance role, with responsibility for financial reporting and year-end accounts
• Experience producing management accounts and financial reports
• A strong understanding of accounting principles and internal controls
• Working knowledge of charity SORP (or willingness to develop this)
• Confidence in building relationships and communicating financial information clearly
• Alignment with our values and comfort working within a Christian ethos

Experience in the charity sector, supporting trustees, or working with systems such as Liberty Accounts (or similar, e.g. Xero) would be advantageous.

Why join Evergreen?

This is an opportunity to play a key role in a small, relational charity where your work has direct and visible impact. Your financial leadership will help ensure more people in later life experience connection, dignity and belonging.

You’ll benefit from a flexible, part-time role that can work around other commitments, while working closely with senior leadership in a trusted and valued position.

Director of Finance

Due to the retirement of the current post holder, we are seeking an experienced Finance Director to join the leadership team at Compton Care.

We are a large independent charity, specialising in palliative care, based in Wolverhampton. We provide specialist care to the people of Wolverhampton, Dudley, East Shropshire and South Staffordshire, caring for several thousand people every year in one of our two locations, or within our patients’ own homes. 

Considered to be a large hospice offering modern palliative services, we are partially funded by the NHS but in the main are supported by commercial and charitable giving.

The Finance Director’s post is an integral part of the Charity's senior management team, working closely with the Chief Executive, setting the strategic direction of the organisation and ensuring it has the financial systems and resources to implement its strategy.

We are looking for someone who ideally has previous Director level experience. In return this full-time position is being offered on a very senior management (VSM) salary of circa £88.5K.  We would also consider part time work for the right candidate. 

Compton also offers hybrid working, but expectations are that you would need to be in the office for 60% of your working week. .

You will be responsible for all aspects of Compton’s finances ensuring accurate and complete recording of all financial transactions, adherence to internal controls, procedures and all financial compliance standards. You will report to the Chief Executive and work closely with the leadership team and Board of Trustees, whilst managing the organisation’s Finance and IT teams. 

If you are looking for a role with purpose, where your efforts positively affect the lives of others then this might be the right fit for you.

Interviews will place week on the 2 June 2026.

About our recruitment process:

Please note that we reserve the right to close a vacancy before the published closing date where applicant volume is high.

Compton Care is committed to safe and fair recruitment, safeguarding and protecting those we care for and serve. We make sure that all our staff are selected and vetted fairly so that they can provide safe, effective and compassionate care.

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a Standard submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions. It is also subject to satisfactory references and occupational health clearance.

REF-228 298

We are looking for a collaborative, proactive problem solver to step into the newly created role of Finance & Executive Support Officer.

This is a varied and crucial role which supports the organisation to work as effectively as possible. Working closely with the Finance Manager, SLT, Board and across the organisation at all levels, it provides a fantastic opportunity for the postholder to develop a broad range of skills and gain a deep understanding of how the organisation works. 

The postholder will spend about 3 days/week focussed on financial tasks including payment processing, month end, income processing and supporting the setup and rollout of new features in our finance system, and the rest of their time on governance, executive support & administration tasks to support the charity to operate effectively.

We are looking for a great communicator with experience of key finance processes, who thrives in a busy role and is able to balance and prioritise competing demands on their time (with support to do this).

We know that the role is broad and we don’t expect candidates to have direct experience in every aspect of the job description, so we welcome applications from those who meet some requirements and feel that they have the skills and approach to meet others.

Join us and together we'll fight for a world where ovarian cancer doesn’t limit life.

The role

This is a full-time (35 hours per week), permanent position.

The role is office-based at 10–18 Union Street, London, SE1 1SZ, with a requirement to attend the office at least two days per week on non-consecutive days (for example, Tuesday and Thursday).

How to apply

Click ‘Apply’ to view the full job description and complete your application.

As part of the application process, you will be asked to submit your CV and answer the following two questions (maximum 250 words per answer):

• This role engages with colleagues and trustees at all levels – what is your experience of working with senior stakeholders, and what do you pay particular attention to when communicating with them?
• Tell us about a time that you identified something that could be improved, and proactively made that change?

You will also be asked to complete an equalities monitoring form (details included in the recruitment pack).

Key dates

• Closing date: 23:59 on Sunday 10 May 2026
• Interviews: Week commencing 18 May 2026

Additional information

We appreciate that candidates may use AI tools to refine their applications. However, we encourage you to ensure your application remains a true and authentic reflection of your skills, experience, and personality. Excessive reliance on AI-generated content may impact your ability to stand out and may be discussed during the interview process.

The Finance Director is responsible for all aspects of the group's finances (National Federation of Music Societies, trading as Making Music and its trading subsidiary), to ensure accurate and complete recording of all financial transactions, adherence to internal controls and procedures, and timely and effective analysis and reporting to the Chief Executive, Senior Management Team and other budget holders, the Finance & Compliance Committee and the Board of Trustees.

The Finance Director post is an integral part of the charity's senior management team, working closely with the Chief Executive, the Deputy CEO Advocacy and Lobbying and the Marketing Director, setting the strategic direction of the organisation and ensuring it has the financial systems and resources to implement its strategy.

The role line-manages and oversees the work of the Finance Manager who runs the day-to-day financial accounting processes, with the help of two Finance Administrators.

The role also leads on supporting members with finances, e.g. leading Treasurers' events, relevant website resources and responding to finance-related consultations.

The 2.5 days (18.75 hours) per week can be worked flexibly, and at least some of them from home, by agreement with your line manager. We would expect you to spend at least 1 days each week in our London office in Moorgate.

This is a friendly team, and our bright and lively office is located in one of the buzziest areas of London, with excellent transport links and nice places to spend your lunchtimes or meet friends after work.

About Us

Working Animals International is the new name for SPANA. Our name has changed, but our mission, values and life-changing work to transform the welfare of working animals worldwide remains the same. 

We are dedicated to transforming the welfare of working animals in greatest need globally. By increasing access to skills, knowledge and resources and campaigning for policy change we're building a world where working animals are healthy and valued, communities are stronger and livelihoods are more secure.

About this role

This is an exciting opportunity to join our small finance team as Finance Officer. This is a key role that will report to our Finance Manager and work closely with colleagues across the organisation so that our financial processes run smoothly and accurately.

We’re an international charity, so we work in multiple currencies. Key responsibilities in this role are liaising with domestic and overseas offices, suppliers, banks and partners. Please see the job description for full details, including responsibilites and a person specification. 

Contract, location and salary

This is a permanent, full-time (34.5 hours per week) role. This is a UK based position, and applicants must have the right to work in the UK currently and for the duration of the contract. 

The salary for this role is circa £34,000 per annum. We also offer benefits including a generous company pension scheme, and healthcare cashplan. 

Further information and how to apply

Please review the job description for full details. The deadline for applications is 23:59 GMT on Monday 25 May 2026. 

Harris Hill is delighted to be partnering with Maudsley Charity to recruit a Finance Officer. This is a strong opportunity for a part-qualified or early-career finance professional looking to gain broad exposure across financial accounting, reporting and business partnering within a purpose-driven organisation.

As Maudsley Charity continues to invest in innovative projects that improve mental health care for those who need it most, they are entering an exciting phase of growth and operational development.

To support this, they are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Finance Officer to play a key role in strengthening financial processes, supporting robust reporting, and enabling effective stewardship of funds. Working closely with the Finance Lead, this role will help ensure the organisation’s finances are managed with accuracy, integrity and insight, supporting informed decision-making and maximising the impact of every pound invested.

Location: London, UK (hybrid working)
Salary: £30,000 - £35,000
Contract: Full time, permanent

About the role

A varied, hands-on position within a small, collaborative Finance team. You’ll support day-to-day finance operations while contributing to reporting, budgeting and project work.

Key responsibilities include:

• Maintaining accurate financial records and processing transactions
• Managing invoices, payments, and bank reconciliations
• Supporting monthly management accounts and reporting
• Assisting with budgets, forecasts and grant due diligence
• Contributing to audit preparation and fund monitoring
• Improving processes and supporting finance queries across the organisation

About you

• Part-qualified (AAT or studying ACCA/CIMA/ACA) or equivalent experience
• Background in a finance or accounts role
• Strong Excel and systems skills
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Proactive, organised and keen to develop

This role would suit someone looking to step into a broader finance position with real variety and progression.

Closing date: 18th of May
interviews: Week commencing 1st of June (likely 4th of June)

Join our ‘Ask Us Anything’ webinar on Wednesday 13th of May at 12pm – 1pm. Link can be found in the information pack page 8.

Harris Hill is a certified B Corp™ and leading charity recruitment agency, committed to equitable and inclusive recruitment practices. Applications from all sections of the community are actively welcomed, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality or other protected characteristics.

When life gets tough, good relationships help us through.

TLC: Talk, Listen, Change is a relationships charity that has supported people in the North of England for over 40 years.

Our aim to ensure everyone within our community benefits from good emotional wellbeing, and the key to this is maintaining safe, healthy, and happy relationships.

We’re entering an exciting phase of growth across the country and are looking for a Group Finance Director to join our Executive Leadership Team to contribute to the collective leadership of the TLC Group.

The Role

This role will lead the financial strategy and financial management of the TLC Group.

You will:

· Lead financial strategy to ensure sustainability and growth.

· Advise the CEO, Executive Leadership Team, and Board on financial matters.

· Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow, and financial planning.

· Ensure strong governance, controls, and regulatory compliance.

· Provide clear, high-quality financial reporting and Board assurance.

· Lead audit, statutory reporting, and external auditor relationships.

· Oversee financial systems and processes to support growth.

· Lead financial due diligence for partnerships, mergers, and opportunities.

· Lead and develop the finance team, promoting accountability, and transparency.

About You

We’re looking for a values-led, people-focused leader with sound judgement and strong operational experience.

You’ll bring:

· Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).

· Significant senior finance leadership experience.

· Strong expertise in financial strategy, planning, and governance.

· Experience of Board reporting and working with senior stakeholders.

· Skilled in budgeting, forecasting, and cashflow management.

· Experience in financial modelling and supporting growth.

· Proven ability to lead and develop high performing teams.

· Strong analytical skills, including advanced excel capability.

· Able to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance audiences.

· Collaborative, values-led, and motivated by social impact.

The Offer

· Salary: £61,429 - £71,069

· 37 hours per week

· Hybrid working, with time spent at TLC Group offices (various locations across England).

· The opportunity to help lead a growing national service with strong group-level support.

If you’re motivated by using your financial expertise to drive meaningful social impact, and want to play a key role in shaping the future of a growing, values-led organisation, we’d love to hear from you.

Application Deadline:

The deadline for applications is Thursday 14th May 2026

Interviews expected in Manchester on Tuesday 2nd June 2026

Assistant Director of Finance (18 month FTC)
A leading Housing Association in the area

A well-established and forward-thinking Housing Association is seeking an Assistant Finance Director to join on an 18 month Fixed Term Contract. Reporting directly to the CFO, this position offers a unique opportunity to operate as the number two in finance, playing a key role in both strategic leadership and operational delivery.

The organisation provides a broad range of general and supported housing and is recognised for its commitment to delivering high-quality services and positive outcomes for its communities.

This role is ideally suited to a senior finance professional with Housing sector experience who is looking to step into a high-impact leadership role, driving improvements across people, processes, and financial insight.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the finance function, acting as deputy to the CFO
• Oversee financial and management accounting, ensuring robust reporting and controls
• Support financial planning, treasury activities, and development finance
• Drive a high-quality business partnering function across the organisation
• Lead on improving financial processes, systems, and internal controls
• Support the Executive team on business planning, including scenario modelling and stress testing

Requirements

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
• Proven experience within a Housing Association or Registered Provider
• Strong leadership capability, with experience managing and developing teams
• Ability to operate at a strategic level and influence senior stakeholders
• Excellent technical finance skills combined with a commercial, business-partnering mindset
• Strong analytical and systems capability, with confident communication skills

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious finance leader looking to step into a director level role within a purpose-driven organisation.

We are seeking an exceptional leader to be our next chief executive, leading a respected and influential membership organisation at the heart of a thriving grassroots movement.

You’ll be working to build on the success we’ve seen and strong position and voice we have established for ourselves and our members, as a leading force for inclusive and sustainable transport and communities.

You’ll bring an impressive track record in values-based leadership, a proven ability to engage and inspire grassroots change-makers, strategic partners and policy-makers, and a deep belief in the importance of community-led change towards a sustainable, equitable future.

About us

Community Rail Network is a national not-for-profit organisation, which is in the process of applying for charitable status, supporting a growing ‘community rail’ movement, which helps communities get the most from their railways, promotes sustainable and inclusive travel, coordinates volunteering and place-making, and brings people together.

Community rail is made up of 77 community-based organisations, and around 1,300 station volunteer groups and other community-led initiatives around Britain. Their activities range from creative projects for young people, to advising train operators on service improvements, to building travel confidence among marginalised groups, to biodiversity projects at stations, to promoting greener tourism by rail.

Our enthusiastic team of 24 works from home in dispersed locations, but we come together regularly in person and online. We work collaboratively to support members, provide training, events and resources, run campaigns, and champion community rail and its insights. We believe in helping everyone reach their potential while having a good work-life balance.

About this role, and your main responsibilities

Our current CEO is moving on after nine years in role, leaving the organisation, team and wider movement in a strong and empowered position to deliver on the next phase of our development.

Your opportunity is to lead the organisation, and to deliver on our new five-year strategy setting an ambitious course for the future during a period of major transformation for our railways and the wider transport system. You will ensure that we are:

• clear in our identity and our independence, and seen as thought leaders in our field;
• are supporting our members and stakeholders to meet their changing and diverse needs; and
• ensuring the financial and operational resilience of the organisation in an environment that is undergoing a period of rapid change.

As CEO, you will lead a passionate and experienced senior leadership team with three direct reports, while working closely with and reporting into our Board, key partners and funders, and ensuing an engaging, empowering, tenacious approach across all we do.

Advocacy of community rail and its benefits will be high on your agenda, and you will be working closely across multiple stakeholders including UK and devolved national governments, regional and local authorities as well as forging collaborative partnerships with like-minded organisations.

Maintaining our community-centric ethos, you will need to ensure we're effective in enabling members to unlock greater value from the railways at a grassroots level, while drawing on their insights to affect wider change. With hundreds of member groups and organisations across Britain delivering life-changing, place-enhancing work, you will have a solid foundation to build on, to take community rail forward and expand our impact in the years ahead.

Last, but not least, you will be responsible for ensuring the strong and effective governance of the organisation, modelling our governing principles, values and behaviours, and ensuring that we have robust financial and resource management in place.

Skills, competencies and qualities

1. Exceptional leadership skills, including a proven ability to lead, develop and grow third sector organisations or multi-faceted teams delivering complex activities, projects and campaigns;
2. Excellent communication and external leadership skills: articulate, assertive, with the ability to work diplomatically and persuasively with stakeholders at all levels;
3. Experienced in acting as the public face of an organisation, such as through the media, public speaking and high-level meetings, and using evidence and storytelling to articulate and champion a cause;
4. Politically astute, with knowledge of and commitment to social inclusion, social justice and sustainability, and a sound grasp of the importance of public transport, sustainable travel, and community-led action;
5. A proven ability to influence policy and decision-makers, and to identify influencing opportunities, ideally in relation to community development, sustainability and/or transport, including sharing community insights;
6. A strong track record in income generation and development, building strong funder relationships and delivery partnerships, managing programme or organisational budgets and controlling expenditure;
7. Experience of working with and/or reporting to a board, ideally in a not-for-profit and/or membership context;
8. An empowering, engaging approach to leadership, management and change-making;
9. Resilient, pragmatic and determined, with the ability to work under pressure, seize emergent opportunities, manage risk, and support others dealing with competing priorities.

Other information

The role will involve extensive travel within Britain as part of building your profile and that of the organisation with central and devolved government in Scotland and Wales, and increasingly with the devolved regions of England.

There is flexibility on location given the requirement to travel and that your office will be home-based. You will need to travel to in-person quarterly team meetings (usually in London or West Yorkshire) and to Board meetings which alternate between online and London. It is expected that travel will be by public transport and easy access to the rail network is therefore required to ensure journeys can be made sustainably. 

This is a full-time position, 37 hours per week. We use a flexi-time system with core hours 10am-3pm, and are committed to being a flexible, supportive and understanding employer. This is a permanent position with a probationary period of six months. 

Benefits: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (rising up to 30 days, plus Bank Holidays, in line with long service); pension with employer contribution of 7%; and access to Employee Assistance Programme.

Successful applicants will need to provide proof that they have the right to work in the UK and provide two references.

Community Rail Network is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and Black, Asian and other minoritised groups, who meet with the skills and competencies for this role. We will provide reasonable adjustments for interviews as required.