Foundation manager jobs in edinburgh, scotland

Salary: £34,596.75 per annum

Location: Flexible – home or office based

Contract: Fixed term contract ending December 2026

Hours: Full time 37.5 hours

Closing date: Monday the 5th of January at 11:30pm

Are you able to write clearly and accurately drawing on a range of evidence?  Could you use those skills to support our Business Development team with tenders for statutory funding, including preparation work, research, and supporting with bid writing? Then join Shelter as a Business Development Officer and you could soon find yourself playing an important role within our Business Development team

About the role

Responsible for supporting the Business Development Team to generate statutory income and achieve its income target, you will be involved in a range of activities including producing content for bids, horizon scanning and maintaining the pipeline to inform income forecasting.  In collaboration with the Business Development Manager, you will undertake research into local needs and priorities in our service areas with a view to supporting the team in influencing commissioners and driving forward systems change.

About you

To succeed, you’ll be skilled at writing clearly and accurately and drawing on a range of evidence to produce compelling content for tenders, proposals and reports. You’ll be comfortable working on your own initiative or as part of a team, and happy to share your knowledge and skills to play your part in cross-team projects when required. The ability to use Microsoft Office programmes including Word, Excel and Outlook are also a requirement for the role.

Apply to be part of our team and be the change you want to see in society.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave, enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. We are committed to offering fully flexible working to help all employees maintain work-life balance. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.

About the team

The Business Development team (BDT) is the support function that leads, coordinates and supports Shelter business areas working to develop new and existing services to meet Shelter’s strategic goals.

The BDT team sits within the Income Generation directorate and will involve leading the development of high-quality statutory funding tenders, support growth through researching new markets and maintaining a strong pipeline of opportunities and contribute to strategic projects that embed continuous improvement.

You will collaborate with teams across Shelter including Services, High Value Partnerships and Finance, looking to enhance ways of working, building external partnerships that strengthen applications and delivery, along with influencing commissioners and funders to ensure opportunities align with Shelter’s strategic priorities.

How to apply

Please click ‘Apply for Job’ below. You are required to submit a CV and a supporting statement.

The supporting statement should include your responses to the points in the ‘About You’ section of the job description of no more than 300 words each. Please provide specific examples following the STAR format and ensure you demonstrate how you address the behaviours below throughout your responses:

• We work together to achieve our shared purpose
• We learn from our experiences and are open to risk

Any applications submitted without a supporting statement will not be considered

About Shelter

Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet everyday millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.

Safeguarding statement

Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.

Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

Terms: 0.6 FTE, 3 days per week; one year contract, with possibility for extension

Salary: £24,000 - £38,000 per annum, depending on experience

Location:Remote working

Start Date:As soon as possible 

Line Manager:Communications Manager 

Please note that you must have the right to work in the UK. 

Closing Date: 4th January 2026

About BASIC

BASIC is an independent, non-profit think tank working to safeguard humanity and Earth’s ecosystem from nuclear risks and interconnected security threats, for generations to come. Our vision is for a global security consensus founded on multilateralism, the recognition of the indivisibility of security, an adherence to Earth’s planetary boundaries, and the consideration of future generations

For nearly 40 years, we have developed a global reputation for groundbreaking dialogue and incisive thought leadership to strengthen international peace and security. We comprise an intellectually and culturally diverse team of 20 expert-practitioners with deep and wide-ranging institutional experience, headquartered in London with additional presences in Berlin and Rome.  We are independent, receive no core funding from any state, and our project work is funded transparently.

BASIC's approach to resolving contemporary nuclear dynamics is centred on dialogue as both a practice and a philosophy. We interpret dialogue broadly, recognising that meaningful engagement takes many forms: from facilitating direct strategic conversations between adversaries grounded in conflict resolution principles, to developing networks and diplomatic initiatives that build consensus around shared objectives, to shaping the intellectual foundations of policy discourse through rigorous research and thought leadership. 

BASIC is a fast-paced and rewarding environment in which to work, with an exceptionally-positive and inclusive team culture. We have experienced rapid growth over the past decade, and we are well-suited to people who are motivated by our mission, able to work at a sustained pace, keen to develop professionally, and enjoy being part of a collaborative team working on consequential issues. 

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with room for growth

• 30 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays and closure days over the December festive period

• Employer pension contributions of 5% (above the national minimum)

• Flexible working arrangements, with set days (Wednesdays required) but flexibility on hours

• Remote working with option to use co-working space

• 1-2 all-staff in-person team away day per year, as well as other in-person working opportunities

• Opportunities for professional growth and development

• Excellent team culture built on respect, openness, and inclusion

The Role

BASIC is seeking a Digital Communications Officer with exceptional design sensibility and meticulous attention to detail. This role is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the organisation's digital presence through clear, consistent, and effective communication with key audiences. The Digital Communications Officer will support the implementation of strategic communication objectives, promote organisational priorities, and uphold the integrity and professionalism of BASIC's online profile.

Reporting to the Communications Manager and working closely with BASIC's programme teams, the postholder will develop, deliver, and analyse the impact of digital content across our online platforms — including BASIC's website and microsites, social media channels (LinkedIn, X/Twitter, BlueSky), and email communications.

Essential Requirements

The ideal candidate will be a fluent English speaker with strong copy-editing and proofreading skills. Professional-grade capabilities in graphic design, web design, newsletter software, and audio/video production are essential for creating compelling online content. We are looking for someone who combines technical fluency with creative flair and storytelling, and who understands how to engage diverse audiences across multiple digital platforms.

Key Responsibilities:

Digital Strategy and Content Management

• Work with the Communications Manager to develop, maintain, and refine BASIC's digital communications strategy and associated workplans

• Ensure consistency in the presentation of programme communications strategies and accessibility for all staff

• Monitor and evaluate the impact of communications activities, identifying successes, lessons learned, and opportunities for improvement

• Prepare communications plans for conferences, speaking engagements, international engagements, and campaigns

Website and Digital Platforms

• Commission, edit, and publish articles and commentaries for BASIC's website

• Maintain and update BASIC's website, microsites, and online presence (including Wikipedia and directory listings)

• Ensure all digital content is accurate, well-formatted, proofread, and on-brand

Social Media Management

• Develop and maintain a content calendar for BASIC's social media accounts (LinkedIn, BlueSky, X/Twitter)

• Create engaging, visually compelling, and timely social media content that advances BASIC's communications objectives

• Monitor social media engagement and use analytics to inform strategy

Email Communications and Newsletters

• Produce BASIC's regular newsletters, ensuring they are newsworthy, well-designed, and properly formatted

• Develop compelling headlines and select impactful imagery

• Use graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) to enhance visual appeal

Media Relations Support

• Develop, maintain, and update media contact lists and databases

• Work with the Communications Manager to document and refine media engagement processes

• Prepare press releases, ensuring they are compelling, accurate, and properly formatted

• Compile monthly digests of nuclear policy and security-related media coverage (as required)

Content Creation and Design

• Create visual, audio, and video content using professional-grade tools to tell BASIC's story effectively

• Ensure all imagery is well-cropped, edited, and appropriately branded

• Liaise with staff to identify the most impactful content for external communications

Additional Responsibilities (as required)

• Prepare programme Q&As, one-pagers, briefing notes, and key messages

• Support organisation of media training sessions

• Liaise with external contributors for website content

Please note: This list is not exhaustive. Other tasks may be required as they arise.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Degree in marketing, visual communications, journalism, or related field, or equivalent professional experience
• Proven experience in a digital communications or media role
• Experience in audio-visual storytelling such as video work or podcasting
• Excellent written and spoken English, with strong copy-editing and proofreading skills
• Professional-grade skills in graphic design, web design, and audio/video production
• Demonstrated ability to manage websites, social media channels, and digital campaigns
• Strong analytical skills, including experience using digital analytics to inform strategy
• Familiarity with email marketing or CRM platforms (e.g., Mailchimp)
• Technically fluent, with creative and storytelling flair
• Highly organised, collaborative, and attentive to detail
• Ability to balance multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Desirable:

• Postgraduate qualification in a relevant field
• Experience working in a think tank, NGO, research, or public policy organisation
• Experience in media relations or crisis communications
• Knowledge of global security, defence, or nuclear policy issues

Contract: 1.0 FTE (37.5 hours per week), permanent with 6-month probation period

Salary: £56,650-70,000 per annum, depending on experience

Location: Remote working, with option to use co-working space

Start Date: As soon as possible

Reports to: Executive Director

Please note: You must have the right to work in the UK.

How to Apply

Closing Date: 4th January 2026 (23:59 GMT)

To apply, please submit the following: 

• Cover letter (maximum 2 pages)

• CV

Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from us within two weeks of the closing date, your application has not been successful on this occasion.

About BASIC

BASIC is an independent, non-profit think tank working to safeguard humanity and Earth's ecosystem from nuclear risks and interconnected security threats, for generations to come. Our vision is for a global security consensus founded on multilateralism, the recognition of the indivisibility of security, adherence to Earth's planetary boundaries, and consideration of future generations.

For nearly 40 years, we have built a global reputation for groundbreaking dialogue and incisive thought leadership to strengthen international peace and security. We are an intellectually and culturally diverse team of 20 expert-practitioners with deep institutional experience, headquartered in London with additional presences in Berlin and Rome. We are independent, receive no core funding from any state, and our project work is funded transparently.

BASIC's approach to resolving contemporary nuclear dynamics is centred on dialogue as both a practice and a philosophy. We interpret dialogue broadly, recognising that meaningful engagement takes many forms: from facilitating direct strategic conversations between adversaries grounded in conflict resolution principles, to developing networks and diplomatic initiatives that build consensus around shared objectives, to shaping the intellectual foundations of policy discourse through rigorous research and thought leadership.

BASIC is a fast-paced and rewarding environment with an exceptionally positive and inclusive team culture. We have experienced rapid growth over the past decade and are well-suited to people who are motivated by our mission, able to work at a sustained pace, keen to develop professionally, and enjoy being part of a collaborative team working on consequential issues.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with room for growth

• 30 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays and closure days over the December festive period

• Employer pension contributions of 5% (above the national minimum)

• Flexible working arrangements, with set days (Wednesdays required) but flexibility on hours

• Remote working with option to use co-working space

• 1-2 all-staff in-person team away day per year, as well as other in-person working opportunities

• Opportunities for professional growth and development

• Excellent team culture built on respect, openness, and inclusion

The Role

BASIC is seeking a hands-on Financial Controller to lead our finance function during a period of sustained growth. The Financial Controller will work across Programme teams ensuring strong financial management and reporting to funding partners, maintain strong financial controls, ensure compliance with charity finance regulations, and provide accurate financial reporting to our Directors and Board of Trustees.

The Financial Controller will oversee the small finance team, including line management of a Finance Assistant and management of an external bookkeeper consultant. This team will be responsible for the majority of financial accounting, processing payroll, and accurate bookkeeping, for which the Financial Controller will be ultimately accountable.

The role includes managing restricted and unrestricted funds in accordance with funder requirements and programme needs, preparing statutory accounts for external audit, and overseeing payroll processing. This role reports directly to the Executive Director to prepare annual budgets and financial strategy, and works closely with the Board's Financial Development Committee to present its implementation.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant with strong technical accounting skills, experience in charity finance, and a proven track record of effective financial management of a growing organisation. You should be comfortable both managing a small team and working hands-on when needed, building collaborative relationships across the organisation. You will need to be a multitasker with the ability to work at pace, and be willing to develop the finance function and best practices to enable the organisation to grow further.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Accounting and Reporting

• Oversee the maintenance of accurate financial records and bookkeeping in accordance with charity accounting standards (SORP)

• Prepare monthly management accounts including variance reporting and rolling forecasts

• Prepare annual statutory accounts and manage the annual independent audit process in its entirety

• Manage restricted and unrestricted funds in accordance with funder requirements

• Provide accurate and timely financial reporting to the Board of Trustees, Executive Director, and funding partners

Financial Operations

• Oversee day-to-day finance operations including payment processing, staff expenses, and cost allocation (including staff costs)

• Oversee monthly payroll using QuickBooks (led by Finance Assistant)

• Manage treasury functions including bank and cash management

• Oversee procurement of key assets such as IT equipment

• Cashflow management

Grant and Budget Management

• Support budget development for funding bids and proposals

• Monitor spend against grants and projects, working towards full cost recovery

• Prepare financial reports for donors and funding partners

• Lead annual budget-setting and forecasting processes in collaboration with the Board and Executive Director

Financial Systems and Controls

• Develop and maintain robust financial systems, processes, and controls

• Continuously improve finance processes and identify efficiencies

• Advise on financial governance and best practice

• Manage financial risks and opportunities (e.g., insurance, foreign exchange)

Team Management and Stakeholder Relations

• Line manage the Finance Assistant and oversee external bookkeeper consultant

• Build collaborative relationships across the organisation

• Manage relationships with key external stakeholders including banks, international transfer services, and audit partners

• Work closely with the Board's Financial Development Committee and BASIC's Treasurer

Please note: This list is not exhaustive. Other tasks may be required as they arise.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

• Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA or equivalent) or part-qualified with significant relevant experience
• Proven experience in a mid-level to senior finance role, with responsibility for financial accounting and reporting
• Experience managing restricted and unrestricted funds
• Experience preparing statutory accounts and managing audit processes
• Experience in a growing organisation, implementing and improving financial systems and controls
• Strong technical accounting skills and understanding of financial controls
• Excellent numeracy and attention to detail
• Proficiency with accounting software (experience with QuickBooks highly desirable)
• Strong Excel/spreadsheet skills
• Excellent communication skills, able to explain financial information to non-finance colleagues
• Highly organised with ability to manage multiple priorities and work to deadlines
• Proactive and solutions-oriented, with ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Comfortable working hands-on when needed while also providing strategic oversight
• Ability to work at pace in a fast-growing organisation
• Commitment to BASIC's mission and values

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience in charity finance and understanding of charity accounting standards (SORP)
• Experience line managing finance staff
• Experience in an international organisation or with international funding
• Understanding of charity governance and regulatory requirements

Do you have a good understanding of social and/or economic policy issues and a proven ability to undertake policy development or campaigning work on specific issues in a wider context? Then join Shelter Scotland as a Senior Advocacy Officer and you could soon be playing a vital role in helping us to deliver positive change for those affected by the housing emergency in Scotland.

About the role

Your main focus will be to lead Shelter Scotland in effectively advocating for the structural policy changes required to end the housing emergency, driving forward our strategic goals to secure more social homes, strengthen housing rights, and build a lasting movement for change. You’ll develop and communicate clear, evidence-based policy recommendations – drawing on research, lived experience, and sector insight – to influence key stakeholders across government, parliament, and beyond. You’ll commission and manage external research, lead stakeholder events, and work collaboratively across teams to ensure our policy work supports public affairs, media, and operational activity. You’ll also line manage an Advocacy Officer, supporting their development and overseeing their performance.

Role specifics

You’ll bring strong experience in crafting high-impact communications that influence decision-makers and persuade key stakeholders. With a solid understanding of Scotland’s political landscape and public policy processes – particularly within the Scottish Government and Parliament – you’ll have a proven track record of driving change through effective advocacy and relationship-building at a senior level. You’ll be proactive in spotting opportunities to influence policy, responding strategically to external developments. Alongside this, you’ll have experience managing externally funded projects, including budgeting and reporting, and will be confident leading and motivating a team to achieve shared goals.

Apply to be part of our team and be the change you want to see in society.

Benefits 

We offer a wide range of benefits, including 30 days of annual leave, enhanced family friendly policies, pension and interest free travel loans. Our employees also have access to a tenancy deposit loan, payroll giving, cycle to work scheme and an employee assistance programme.

We are happy to talk about flexible working, personal growth, and to promote a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.

About the team

The Advocacy Team is part of Shelter Scotland’s Communications and Advocacy Department and is responsible for developing the charity’s policy positions, research plan, and public affairs and professional stakeholder engagement.

The Advocacy team works closely with colleagues in Community Advice and our Telephone and Online Advice services to capture evidence of how Scotland’s broken and biased housing system is impacting communities, and colleagues in Communications and Engagement to translate this evidence into compelling public campaigns and fundraising appeals. The team have led the organisation on developing an anti-racism evidence base, the economic and social benefits of social housing investment and the case for a human rights-based approach to meeting housing need.

About Shelter Scotland

Shelter Scotland is Scotland’s national housing and homelessness charity. Our vision is of a home for everyone in Scotland. For over 50 years, the way we drive change has remained the same. We advise and support people in housing need today and use the insight we gain to inform our campaigns to change tomorrow. We also raise professional standards for those working in Scotland’s housing and homelessness sector by offering a broad range of training courses.

Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet everyday thousands of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement. In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter Scotland. We welcome you on our journey to becoming truly anti-racist.

Safeguarding statement

Safeguarding is everyone's business. Shelter Scotland is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. All our staff will be expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies. 

Shelter Scotland does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.