Freelance operational manager jobs

The National Gallery is looking for a Technical Project Lead to drive the delivery of two transformative, multi‑million‑pound projects: a state of the art Research Centre and a landmark new wing.

You will lead the technical oversight of complex MEP building services for a new Research Centre and a major new public wing, ensuring high-quality, sustainable, and compliant design delivery within a historic, publicly accessible environment.

For more details and to apply please go directly to The National Gallery website.

Contract: Full-time, permanent
Hours: Full-time
Reports to: Chair; Board of Directors 
Location: Hackney
Salary: £50,000-60,000 depending on experience.
Pension: HSoF participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, free onsite lunches .
Probation period: Six months.

About Hackney School of Food

Hackney School of Food is an award-winning food education hub based in the grounds of Mandeville Primary School in Clapton, East London. Through our teaching kitchen and educational garden, we help children, families and communities build the skills, confidence and knowledge to grow, cook and eat good food.

Each year, we welcome more than 10,000 visits to our kitchen and garden, delivering curriculum programmes for schools alongside community cooking courses, gardening projects, holiday clubs, corporate volunteering and public events. Since becoming a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2023, we have expanded our facilities, strengthened our governance and built a strong reputation as a leader in food education.

We're now looking for an exceptional Managing Director to build on these strong foundations and lead Hackney School of Food through its next phase of growth and impact.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Managing Director (MD) will provide both strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the organisation delivers its mission while remaining financially resilient, well-governed and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.

The Managing Director is responsible for all aspects of the organisation, including strategy, income generation, finance, governance, partnerships, programme delivery and people leadership. Working closely with a small, committed team and an engaged Board, they will build on strong foundations to grow Hackney School of Food's impact, reach and long-term sustainability.

This is a varied, hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys balancing big-picture thinking with practical delivery. One day you may be developing a new partnership, meeting a prospective funder or working with the Board on future strategy; the next you could be supporting the team, welcoming visitors to the garden or solving day-to-day operational challenges.

Key priorities

In your first 12 months you will:

• Build on Hackney School of Food's strong foundations to deliver the next phase of our strategy and growth.

• Increase and diversify income through fundraising, partnerships and commercial opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability.

• Lead, support and develop a small, ambitious team, fostering a positive and inclusive culture where people can thrive.

• Strengthen relationships with funders, partners and local businesses, helping Hackney School of Food deepen its impact.

• Work closely with the Board to embed strong governance, organisational systems and long-term planning for the future.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership 

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for Hackney School of Food, ensuring delivery of its mission, vision and long-term objectives. 

• Lead the development and implementation of Hackney School of Food's annual business plan and organisational priorities.

• Work with the Board to evolve organisational strategy, identify opportunities, manage risks and support sustainable growth.

• Monitor, report on and respond to organisational performance against agreed objectives and impact measures. 

• Champion Hackney School of Food externally, strengthening its profile and influence.
   

Financial sustainability and income generation 

• Oversee organisational budgeting, financial planning, forecasting and cashflow management, working closely with the Treasurer and accountant.

• Lead income generation across the organisation, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, sponsorship and earned income.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, sponsors and strategic partners.

• Ensure all funding commitments are met, including grant reporting, monitoring and evaluation requirements.

• Identify new opportunities to diversify income and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

Partnerships & External Relations

• Act as the main point of contact for HSoF’s key partners, LEAP Federation and Chefs in Schools to ensure the partnerships are effective and positive.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with other key stakeholders, including local authorities, funders and sponsors.

• Represent Hackney School of Food at meetings, events, and public forums.

• Champion the value of food education and contribute to wider local and national conversations. 

• Ensure programmes remain responsive to community needs through ongoing engagement and consultation. 

Governance and public benefit 

• Ensure the organisation operates in line with its CIC objectives and delivers clear public benefit. 

• Support the Board of Directors to fulfil its governance responsibilities through high-quality reporting, planning and decision-making.

• Prepare Board papers, reports and agendas, ensuring timely and accurate information is available to support effective governance.

• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Directors quarterly.

• Act as the primary link between the Board and the operational team.

• Maintain effective governance, delegated authority and accountability frameworks. 

• Support the Board in meeting all statutory and regulatory obligations relating to the CIC.

People, Culture and safeguarding

• Provide leadership to a small core team (currently c.4 employees), directly managing staff and fostering a positive, inclusive culture. 

• Provide oversight and support for a wider network of approx. 15 freelance contractors to ensure consistently high-quality delivery.

• Lead recruitment, induction, performance management and professional development in line with safer recruitment and equality principles. 

• Ensure effective organisational structures, clear roles, and performance accountability.

• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.

• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, embedding safeguarding throughout the organisation maintaining compliance with all relevant requirements. 

• Develop organisational systems, policies and practices that support an inclusive, high-performing workplace.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.

• Oversee organisational policies, procedures and continuous improvement, ensuring policies and legal requirements are up to date, clearly communicated and embedded across the organisation. 

• Ensure compliance with employment law, health and safety, safeguarding, GDPR and other relevant legislation. 

Personal specification

Essential experience 

• Senior leadership experience with responsibility for organisational performance and accountability. 

• Experience securing income through fundraising, partnerships and/or commercial activity.

• Experience of financial leadership, including budget setting, forecasting and cashflow oversight.

• Experience working closely with a Board, Trustees or governing body to translate strategic vision into operational delivery. 

• Experience building and managing successful partnerships with funders, businesses and community stakeholders. 

• Experience in managing and motivating a team, creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture. 

• Experience of governance, compliance and organisational risk management.

• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth or community context.

• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, make sound decisions and remain resilient in a resource-constrained environment.

Essential skills and attributes

• Passion for Hackney School of Food's mission and the role of food education in improving health, wellbeing and community connection. 

• Strategic thinker who is equally comfortable with hands-on operational leadership. 

• Entrepreneurial, resourceful and committed to building long-term financial sustainability and identifying growth opportunities.

• Ability to lead a team through change with sensitivity, clarity and kindness.

• Strong communicator with excellent relationship-building skills. 

• Confident decision-maker with a high level of personal accountability. 

• Committed to equity, inclusion and community-led practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within a Community Interest Company (CIC), social enterprise or charity.

• Knowledge of Hackney, its communities and local stakeholder landscape.

• Experience of working in food education, community food, gardening, environmental education or a related field.

• Experience reviewing and managing contracts, service agreements or other legal documentation.

An inclusive workplace

We know that diverse teams make stronger organisations and are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to fair and inclusive recruitment and will consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

We particularly encourage applications from people who are under-represented in our sector and in leadership roles, including people from the global majority and those whose lived experience brings valuable perspectives from the communities we serve. We also welcome applications from people who live in Hackney or East London.

How to apply

The deadline to apply is Monday 20 July at 9am. Please apply by filling out this application form.

You'll find the link to the application form on our Recruitment Pack which provides more information. 

Stage 1: A one-hour online interview with the Senior Team and Board (24 July) 

Stage 2: On-site interview at Hackney School of Food (30 July), including a short presentation. 

We may also invite the preferred candidate to an informal meeting with the wider team and Board before making a final appointment. 

The successful applicant will need to pass an enhanced DBS check and provide two suitable references. 

We may close the application window earlier if we are inundated with applications, so please don't wait to apply.

If you have any questions about the role or your suitability, please feel free to get in touch with us. You will find a Recruitment pack and email address to contact via our website.

This is a defining moment for the National Forest. With a renewed Vision, our purpose is clear: to harness the transformative power of forests to restore nature, connect communities, and drive enterprise for a positive future. Over 30 years, this 200 square mile landscape has been reshaped, more than 10 million trees planted, and forest cover increased from 6% to 26%. Now, we are ready to build on this success within the National Forest itself, enabling three new national forests and championing a forest network for England.

We are now looking for a Project Manager to join us to take forward this work on new national forests. This role is full-time, working 37 hours per week for a fixed-term contract to 31 March 2031, with the potential for extension depending on funding.

Our Commitment to You

- Salary of £43,500 - £48,575
- Civil Service Pension scheme
- 30 days’ annual leave plus 10.5 days’ public and privilege holidays
- Staff bonuses
- Flexible working options
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounts on gym memberships

 Your Role in Growing Our Forest Story

As the New National Forests Project Manager, you’ll lead on effective project management of centralised activities for the three new national forests.

Specifically, you’ll manage the centralised reporting of progress, targets and budgets, liaising closely with the programme managers for each new national forest.

You’ll also provide technical support and advice on land use issues, including forest creation grants delivery, habitat management and land use planning, writing briefings and policy papers.

Additionally, you will:
- Liaise with external partners including government departments, statutory agencies, NGOs and wider partners
- Procure and contract manage consultancy works
- Support communications, advocacy and funding work for new national forests

What You’ll Bring

To be considered as a Project Manager, you will need:
- A relevant degree-level / professional qualification, or at least five years’ work-based experience in a similar role
- Proven experience of project managing partnership projects to deliver positive place-based or environmental outcomes
- Experience of building productive relationships at all levels with external delivery partners and funders
- Knowledge of land use and environmental policy and practice, including incentives and regulation

PROJECT OPERATIONS MANAGER

Brand-new operations and project role with Free to Fly, supporting expectant mothers affected by domestic abuse to build safe, independent futures.

Location: Hybrid – Hope Centre, Portsmouth, plus networking and field work

Free to Fly exists to break cycles of abuse for future generations by raising awareness of domestic abuse and supporting mums-to-be on their journey to safety and independence. Through compassionate, person-centred practical and emotional support, the charity helps expectant mothers bring their children safely into the world and build stable, positive futures. Free to Fly is rooted in strong partnerships, community engagement and a deep respect for the dignity of every survivor.

Why work for Free to Fly?

• Flexible hours and hybrid working to suit your schedule
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (FTE)
• Opportunity for growth as the organisation expands
• Support for your professional development and relevant training
• The opportunity to build something that makes a real impact

The Project Operations Manager is a brand-new role, created to shape and drive the charity’s next phase of growth and impact. This is a wonderful opportunity to build and lead something meaningful from the ground up, playing a central role in how the organisation expands its reach and supports more women.

We’re looking for a practical, solutions-focused individual who thrives in a hands-on environment and enjoys turning ideas into reality. More than anything, this role calls for a genuine passion for the cause and a strong understanding of domestic abuse and trauma-informed practice, ideally gained through direct experience in a relevant service.

You’ll bring the confidence to take initiative, the ability to build trusted relationships, and the drive to create systems, partnerships and ways of working that make a real and lasting difference.

In this role, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Lead design and delivery of funded projects, including a scalable volunteer support model
• Establish project plans, systems, processes, safeguarding standards and operational frameworks
• Recruit, train and support volunteers to deliver safe, high-quality services
• Build referral partnerships across churches, health, community and support organisations
• Track impact, manage budgets, and ensure effective reporting to funders and Trustees

As the role involves regular travel for partnership meetings and delivery activity, you’ll need a full driving licence and access to a vehicle.

This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check.  For further details please have a look at the candidate pack.

For an informal chat to ask any questions, please contact Nick Thomas, Senior Consultant, Charisma Charity Recruitment.  Please apply through the Charisma Charity Recruitment website with your CV and supporting statement. 

Applications are being reviewed on receipt and interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis. When a suitable candidate is found the role will close, so please apply without delay to avoid disappointment.

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

*In accordance with paragraph 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010, this role is subject to an occupational requirement to recruit only an individual who is biologically female, due to the specific nature of the duties involved.

Purpose of the Role

The Head of Operations is the most senior staff member at PACE and the primary day-to-day operational lead for the organisation. The postholder will ensure that services for children and young people are delivered safely, consistently, and to a high standard across all three sites, and that the organisation's systems, finances, people, and compliance obligations are properly managed.

This is an operational leadership role with responsibility for translating the Board's strategic direction into effective day-to-day delivery. The postholder will work closely with the Board of Trustees, who retain strategic governance responsibility, and will be the principal point of accountability for performance across all services. The postholder will also act as Designated Safeguarding Lead for the organisation

Key Responsibilities

1. Operational Leadership and Service Delivery

• Take day-to-day operational responsibility for all PACE services across all three sites, ensuring consistent, high-quality, and safe delivery.

• Support and line manage Senior Centre Managers and Service Managers, providing clear direction, regular supervision, and accountability.

• Ensure all services meet regulatory requirements including EYFS, Ofsted standards, safeguarding and child protection legislation, and disability inclusion policy.

• Maintain and develop operational policies and procedures that reflect best practice in service delivery for children and young people, including those with additional needs.

• Identify and respond to operational risks across sites, escalating to the Board where appropriate.

2. Safeguarding

• Act as the organisation's Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), maintaining overall responsibility for safeguarding practice across all sites.

• Ensure centre managers and service leads fulfil their DSL responsibilities and that training, records, and incident reporting are consistent, up to date, and audit-ready.

• Lead the organisation's response to any safeguarding concern or Ofsted inspection, maintaining transparent and proactive communication with commissioners and the Board.

• Embed a culture of safeguarding awareness and accountability across the whole staff team.

3. Financial Management and Budget Oversight

• Work with the Finance team to manage the organisation's annual budget, ensuring income and expenditure are tracked accurately and reported monthly.

• Hold budget holder accountability across service and centre level, ensuring managers understand and operate within their agreed financial envelopes.

• Monitor income streams - including statutory contracts, parental fees, grants, and fundraised income - and alert the Board to variances or risks in a timely manner.

• Support income generation through effective contract delivery, occupancy management, and proactive relationship management with commissioners.

• Oversee the Fundraising Manager's workload and priorities, ensuring fundraising activity is aligned to operational need and deliverable commitments are accurate before submission.

4. Human Resources and Workforce Management

• Lead, support, and develop the staff team, fostering a culture of professionalism, consistency, and accountability.

• Work with the HR Consultant to ensure HR processes - including onboarding, probation, sickness management, performance management, and offboarding - are followed correctly and documented appropriately.

• Conduct regular line management meetings and appraisals with direct reports, setting clear expectations and addressing performance issues promptly and fairly.

• Manage staffing levels and deployment across sites to ensure services are appropriately resourced, proportionate to demand and income, and compliant with contractual ratios.

• Address workforce culture issues, reducing reliance on informal decision-making and ensuring accountability is embedded at all levels of the team.

5. Commissioner and Stakeholder Relationships

• Maintain and develop the organisation's relationships with Camden commissioners, the Play Providers Forum, Family Hubs, and other statutory and voluntary sector partners.

• Ensure proactive, transparent, and timely communication with Camden regarding service delivery, performance data, and any operational concerns.

• Represent PACE at external meetings, forums, and events as required.

• Support the development of community partnerships that extend the reach and impact of PACE's services.

6. Compliance, Governance and Risk

• Ensure organisational compliance with all relevant regulatory frameworks including Ofsted, EYFS, charity law, and employment legislation.

• Maintain and regularly review operational policies, risk registers, and compliance records, ensuring they are current and accessible across all sites.

• Provide the Board of Trustees with regular, concise, and accurate reports on operational performance, financial position, safeguarding, staffing, and risk.

• Support Board governance by preparing timely papers, flagging decisions required, and maintaining clear separation between operational management and trustee oversight.

7. Systems, Monitoring and Evaluation

• Embed consistent, documented operational systems across all sites, reducing reliance on individual knowledge and informal workarounds.

• Develop and maintain monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track service quality, outcomes for children and families, and contractual KPIs.

• Oversee the organisation's use of operational systems including safeguarding software, HR and payroll platforms, invoicing, and timekeeping tools.

Produce and sign off external impact reports for funders and commissioners

Essentials:

• Experience in an operational management role within a children's services, play, youth work, education, or social care setting

• At least 3 years in a management role with direct line management of multiple staff or teams

• Demonstrable knowledge and practical experience of safeguarding children, including DSL-level responsibility

• Experience managing multi-site or multi-service delivery

• Sound financial literacy: budget management, variance analysis, and income/expenditure monitoring

• Experience of working with Ofsted regulatory frameworks, including EYFS

• Strong people management skills: supervision, appraisal, performance management, and HR process compliance

• Experience working with, and reporting to, a Board of Trustees or equivalent governance body

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to manage competing priorities across multiple sites calmly and consistently

• Commitment to inclusive practice and experience working with children with disabilities and additional needs

• A suitable Level 3 or above qualification in Early Years, Childcare, or a relevant field (e.g. CACHE Level 3, BTEC Level 3 in Children's Play, Learning and Development, or equivalent EYFS-recognised qualification)

Desirable 

• Experience of income generation including commissioner relationships, grant management, and contract compliance

• Experience of charity or voluntary sector management

• Coaching or mentoring experience

• Knowledge of Camden's VCS and community infrastructure

Conditions of Employment

• This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

• The postholder will be required to work across all PACE sites in Camden. Flexible or hybrid working will be considered where operationally appropriate, but the role requires significant on-site presence.

• PACE is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from all sections of the community.

• PACE is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

The Head of Fundraising and Communications plays a pivotal role in shaping and driving Bowel Research UK's fundraising strategies and audience engagement initiatives.

This position is responsible for embedding and executing comprehensive fundraising strategies, growing the charity’s supporter base and income, building up new and under-developed income streams and communicating effectively with their audiences to expand their reach, and encourage financial and non-financial support to deliver the organisations mission.

You will have the autonomy and scope to drive elements of your work and take ownership of your own objectives. You will be required to collaborate on decisions to shape and deliver initiatives, programmes and processes as required for each area of income delivery. 

Key to the success of this role is a strong understanding of individual giving fundraising – an area that is underdeveloped at Bowel Research UK. This role blends the strategic oversight and leadership of a Head of Fundraising role, with the hands-on expertise of an IG fundraiser. Experience across other income streams would be a huge benefit as the role leads all fundraising income streams, but experience in individual giving is essential.

The successful candidate for this role will be someone who has already operated at a senior level within a charity such as at Senior Manager level, or Head of in a specific income stream.

Application notes 

Please download the Candidate Info Pack provided for further information about the role, timelines and next steps.

To progress your application, please contact THINK Recruitment to organise an informal screening call. Please note, we cannot shortlist candidates who have not had a screening call so please allow enough time to have a call before the closing date.

If you need assistance with downloading the pack or any reasonable adjustments to ensure you can engage with the selection process, please send an email to THINK Recruitment and our team will support you.

Closing date for applications: Midnight Tuesday 14th July 

There will be a two stage interview process: 

Stage 1 interviews: 22nd or 23rd July 

Stage 2 interviews: 29th or 30th July 

This is a pivotal role within a small, ambitious team, working closely with clinical leaders and committees to deliver high-quality education for a diverse membership including nurses, consultants, resident doctors, pharmacists, scientists and allied health professionals. 

You will play a key role in shaping and delivering BSH’s educational offer – from webinars and podcasts to in-person events and digital learning resources – as well as leading the development of our new online Knowledge Hub. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Support the BSH Education Committee and deliver its programme of educational activity 

• Plan, coordinate and deliver webinars, podcasts, events and educational resources 

• Lead the development and management of the BSH Knowledge Hub, ensuring content is high-quality, relevant and up to date 

• Track engagement and usage data, including CPD activity 

• Support delivery of education sessions at external events and contribute to BSH events 

• Work collaboratively with other societies and organisations to enhance educational content and signposting 

• Support educational outputs across BSH committees, particularly the Nurse Forum and Research Forum 

We are looking for an experienced, thoughtful Operations Lead to join our small,

purpose-led CIC. The Operations Lead is central to how Power & Integrity functions day-

to-day, supporting both the running of operations and the development of the systems

and processes that help us work more effectively as we grow. The postholder holds the

operational backbone of the organisation, providing trusted executive and

administrative support, coordinating our consultancy portfolio, supporting financial

processes, and strengthening the systems that allow our work to land reliably and on

time.

Working closely with the Co-Chairs, the Operations, Governance and Risk Committee,

our consultancy, impact and the finance function, the postholder combines hands-on

operational delivery with coordination across our consulting and wider engagements.

This is a varied, practical role suited to someone who enjoys constructing workflows,

anticipating needs, spotting risks early, and creating processes that allow others to do

their best work.

This is not a polished corporate operations role. We are a small organisation, still

evolving how we work, so this role would suit someone who enjoys building, shaping, and

improving systems over time, rather than stepping into something already fully formed.

The role carries responsibility for coordination, administration and reliable delivery. The

postholder enables and supports decision-making, governance and delivery, working

within agreed processes and escalating appropriately, and grows their scope over time.

Harris Hill is recruiting for a Head of Finance and Operations for this well-established Charity based in North London

• Location: North London
• Salary: to £65,000 per annum depending on experience  
• Hybrid working: 2 – 3 days a week is required at our offices.
• Working pattern: Flexible working hours, with home and office working
• Reports to: Chief Executive
• Direct reports: Senior Finance Officer 
• Key working relationships: Senior Management Team / Treasurer / Board of Trustees

Purpose of Role

The Head of Finance & Operations is a pivotal senior leadership role responsible for ensuring the financial sustainability, operational effectiveness and strong governance of the charity.

Reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with the Board of Trustees, Treasurer and Senior Management Team, the postholder will lead the charity's finance function whilst overseeing governance, risk, compliance, systems, facilities and business operations.

This is a hands-on role within a lean and ambitious organisation, requiring both strategic leadership and operational delivery. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting organisational decision-making, strengthening infrastructure and ensuring the charity is well-positioned for future growth.

Key Responsibilities
 

Financial Leadership

• Lead financial planning, budgeting and forecasting processes
• Develop and manage cashflow, ensuring long-term financial sustainability
• Produce timely and accurate management accounts and financial reports for the CEO, Board and Committees
• Oversee the preparation of statutory accounts and manage the external audit process
• Ensure strong financial controls, compliance and fraud prevention measures
• Support the CEO, Treasurer and SMT with financial insight, analysis and scenario modelling
• Line-manage the Senior Finance Officer to ensure effective financial reporting and controls.
• Develop longer-term financial planning, cash flow and budgeting processes to help shape the future financial direction of the charity.
• Ensure adherence to financial policies, procedures, and fraud prevention controls.

Strategic Leadership & Organisational Planning

• Act as a key member of the Senior Management Team, contributing to organisational strategy and planning.
• Translate financial and operational data into clear, actionable insight.
• Support performance monitoring and organisational decision-making across the charity.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of sustainable growth plans.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and organisational effectiveness.

Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Lead the coordination of Board and Committee cycles, ensuring meetings are effectively planned and delivered.
• Oversee the preparation and collation of Board and Committee papers, working with SMT colleagues to ensure timely submission of reports.
• Maintain the governance calendar and ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory deadlines.
• Attend Board and Committee meetings as required, providing financial and operational insight.

Systems, Data & Information Governance

• Provide strategic oversight of the charity's systems, technology and data infrastructure.
• Lead systems improvement projects to enhance efficiency, reporting and user experience.
• Oversee the charity's CRM, finance systems and reporting platforms.
• Manage relationships with external IT providers and consultants.
• Act as the charity's Data Protection Accountable Person.

Operations, Facilities & Procurement

• Oversee office operations and facilities management.
• Manage supplier relationships and key service contracts.
• Lead procurement processes and ensure value for money across operational expenditure.
• Ensure operational policies, procedures and controls support effective service delivery.
• Support organisational resilience and business continuity planning.

BLCF is a leading local grantmaker, striving to be a catalyst for positive change in the community. The Foundation distributes millions of pounds locally each year and is establishing a national reputation for an innovative, community-focused and strategic approach.

BLCF is currently recruiting for an experienced Head of Grants to lead our expanding grants team and join our Senior Leadership Team to steer the future direction of the Foundation.

Applicants will need to have significant previous and relevant experience in a grants management role, and possess excellent leadership, team and programme management skills. Excellent communication and IT skills are also essential.

To apply, please submit a concise covering letter (no more than two pages) outlining your suitability for the role against the job description and a completed application form

Closing date for applications is 12noon on Monday 13th July 2026.

About Adolescent Health Study

The Adolescent Health Study (AHS) is an ambitious new UKRI-funded initiative to establish a prospective, longitudinal population study that will generate a globally leading open science data platform and research resource. AHS aims to recruit at least 100,000 young people aged eight to 18 years from across the UK and to follow their mental and physical health and wellbeing over at least 10 years. It plans to collect data through questions and measures; to obtain bio-samples for a wide range of genomic and other high-throughput assays; and to capture linked data relevant to health and wellbeing from participants’ health, education and other administrative records. Recruitment will take place mainly through schools. There will be a strong emphasis on engaging with and involving young people, schools, parents and other relevant stakeholders in the design and delivery of the study, as well as on including young people that represent as wide as possible a range of backgrounds, experiences and characteristics. AHS will focus on enabling a wide range of research, including studies of the critical biological and social developments that occur during the transition from childhood to adulthood and the determinants of both mental and physical health and wellbeing in adolescents and young adults.

Purpose of the post

 The Procurement Lead is responsible for developing and delivering a robust procurement and commercial strategy that ensures value for money, compliance with Procurement Act 2023 regulations in line with AHS being primarily public funded and supports AHS study and operational objectives. The role will lead on sourcing, contracting, supplier management, and commercial governance, ensuring ethical, transparent, and efficient use of public funds.

Main responsibilities

Procurement Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and implement a procurement and commercial strategy aligned with organisational goals and funding requirements.
• Lead procurement planning across research programmes, operations, and corporate services.
• Act as a subject matter expert on public procurement policy and best practice.
• Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes, systems, and capability.

Tendering and Contract Management

• Oversee end-to-end procurement processes including tendering, evaluation, and contract award.
• Ensure compliance with UK public procurement regulations (e.g., Procurement Act and associated guidance).
• Draft, review, and negotiate complex contracts, including research, clinical, and grant-related agreements.
• Manage contract lifecycle including performance monitoring, renewals, and extensions.

Commercial Governance & Compliance

• Establish and maintain procurement policies, procedures, and governance frameworks.
• Ensure all procurement activities meet audit, transparency, and reporting requirements for public funding.
• Identify and mitigate commercial risks across supplier engagements.
• Support internal and external audit processes.

Supplier & Stakeholder Management

• Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships, ensuring high performance and innovation.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (research teams, finance, legal) to understand needs and deliver value-driven procurement solutions.
• Work with external stakeholders including funders, partners and strategic advisors to develop optimum outcomes
• Provide commercial advice and guidance to senior leadership and project teams.
• Promote sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.

Financial & Value Management

• Deliver value for money through effective sourcing and negotiation strategies.
• Monitor procurement spend and identify cost-saving or efficiency opportunities.
• Contribute to budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
• Ensure funding is used appropriately, ethically and in line with public funding requirements.

Knowledge, skills and experience

Essential

1. Professional qualification in procurement or supply chain e.g., CIPS Level 5 or equivalent
2. Degree or comparable experience in business, finance, law, or related field.
3. Proven track record of managing complex procurement exercises and contracts.
4. Experience in procurement or commercial roles within regulated procurement environments, specifically those classed as a public authority
5. Strong understanding of UK public procurement regulations and best practice.
6. Commercial acumen with strong negotiation and contract management skills.
7. Experience of drafting and reviewing heads of terms and commercial agreements.
8. Knowledge of intellectual property (IP) considerations in research contracts.
9. Strong experience in supplier and stakeholder management.
10. Excellent analytical, financial, and problem-solving abilities.
11. Strong communication and influencing skills across all levels of an organisation.
12. Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.

Desirable

1. CIPS Level 6 or equivalent
2. Membership of a professional body (e.g., MCIPS or FCIPS).
3. Experience managing high-value and complex contracts, including collaborative or partnership agreements
4. Experience in procurement or commercial roles within charity and/or research sectors
5. Detailed understanding of intellectual property (IP) considerations in research contracts.
6. Detailed knowledge of the UK Procurement Act (or Public Contracts Regulations 2015 historically) and transitions between them.
7. Experience of drafting and reviewing heads of terms and commercial agreements.
8. Understanding of subsidy control, state aid, or funding compliance frameworks.
9. Ability to analyse procurement data and generate insights using tools such as Excel, Power BI, or similar.
10. Experience leading organisational change or transformation programmes in procurement.
11. Ability to build procurement capability across a non-procurement stakeholder base.

Dimensions

• This is a full-time role, 37.5 hours per week, offered initially as an 18-month fixed-term contract with potential route to permanency.
• Flexible working across several geographical locations in the UK.  Travel may be required to AHS locations and partner organisations.
• AHS is a national organisation, and our activities take place across the UK.

Application Process

All candidates are required to complete the application form which can be found when clicking 'Apply Now' via Charity Job.

Please refer to the ‘How to Apply’ section of the downloadable application form.

Please note that only applications submitted directly to Gravitate HR will be accepted for this position.

The closing date for applications is 11:00pm on Sunday 12th July 2026.

Interviews are currently expected to take place on Wednesday 19th and Thursday 20th August 2026.

Equal Opportunities Policy Statement

AHS is an equal opportunities employer, and as such aims to treat all employees, consultants and applicants fairly. It is our policy to provide employment equality to all, irrespective of:

• Gender, including gender reassignment
• Marital or civil partnership status
• Having or not having dependants
• Religion or belief
• Race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins)
• Disability
• Sexual orientation
• Age

We are opposed to all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.  All job applicants and employees who work for us will be treated fairly and will not be unfairly discriminated against on any of the above grounds. Decisions about recruitment and selection, promotion, training or any other benefit will be made objectively and without unlawful discrimination. 

Values

It is an exciting time for the Adolescent Health Study (AHS) as we establish our senior leadership team and begin to plan the pilot studies. As the senior executive team evolves, the AHS values will be grounded in inclusivity, integrity, accountability, and collaboration.

Job Purpose: 

The International HR Operations Administrator provides pro-active, generalist HR operations support to all staff. This role involves supporting all aspects of the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, on-boarding and orientation, performance management, learning and development, monthly payroll, benefits administration, as well as assisting with HR administration and the HR system. 

Key to this role is the ability to be efficient and well-organised, as well as to build strong working relationships, and manage HR-related issues in a professional and timely manner. 

Scope and Limits of Authority: 

The post holder is expected to organise their own day-to-day activities according to the overall priorities and timescales set. 

● This role does not have line management responsibility 

● Assisting with contracting and managing consultants and interpreters 

● Processing personal and confidential staff data 

Key Responsibilities: 

HR Strategy, Planning & Budgets 

● Processing HR activity invoices, ensuring accurate reporting in line with agreed budget criteria 

HR Policies & Processes 

● Supporting staff to understand and comply with HR policies and procedures as needed and raising any concerns to line managers. 

Global Resourcing & Payroll 

● Assisting with all recruitment activity, including finalising job descriptions, planning recruitment activity, placing adverts, support with selection and appointment processes, and scheduling interviews 

● Assisting with the monthly payroll for all staff globally, including providing relevant information to outsourced employment (EOR) and payroll only providers, processing invoices and maintaining relevant records; tracking payroll changes for all staff 

● Assisting with administration related to cost of living reviews (e.g. writing letters, updating the HR system) 

● Assisting with the management of all benefit administration including pension, Employee Assistance Programme, Life Assurance etc. 

● Assisting with the effective on-boarding of new starters and managing the orientation process 

● Assisting with termination / end of employment processes 

● Assisting with consultant due diligence processes as needed 

Staff Engagement & Employee Relations 

● Assisting with employee engagement activities such as staff surveys and employee wellbeing activities. 

● Assisting with staff communication activities as needed andensuring the HR section of the Secretariat Space is accurate 

Talent Management 

● Assisting with the performance management process to ensure reviews are completed on time and documented effectively 

● Assisting with L&D activities by identifying and monitoring training opportunities for staff 

HR Administration & Reporting 

● Draft offer letters, contracts, employee correspondence and paperwork covering the whole employee life cycle e.g: Maternity / new starts / Leavers etc 

● Provide administrative support in various tasks including meeting notes, booking meetings 

● Effectively monitoring the HR team’s shared email accounts 

● Keeping the HR system up to date, supporting staff to use it effectively 

● Maintaining HR records, in line with data protection regulations 

● Contribute to the life and work of the wider Resources team, helping out administratively where necessary 

Cross Team & Cross Secretariat Responsibilities 

● Building, maintaining and developing relationships with colleagues across all teams in the Secretariat, contributing to the delivery of the Alliance mission and Family for Every Child’s strategy 

● Contributing to cross-team work as needed and cross Secretariat project teams 

● Establishing and maintaining efficient administration systems, including digital filing 

● Undertaking any other reasonable duties or projects as required to support the work of the Secretariat 

Self-Management 

● Working in a results focused, open and collaborative way with agility, flexibility and a ‘can do’ mentality, enabling colleagues to thrive in a remote working environment 

● Keep up to date professionally and take responsibility for own professional development 

Person Specification: 

Education, qualifications, knowledge and experience 

Essential: 

● Educated to UK A Level (International level 3) or equivalent qualification or experience 

● Relevant and recent experience working in generalist/operational HR at a similar level 

● Knowledge of HR best practices (UK & International) 

● Experience of working in a fast paced environment 

● Experience of supporting multi-disciplinary teams 

● Experience of remote working 

● Experience of working in a multicultural environment 

● Experience of effective communication at all levels across an organisation 

Desirable: 

● Degree in a relevant discipline 

● Professional qualification in HR

● CIPD membership 

● Experience of embedding HR policy and process 

● Experience of working within a network organisation 

● Experience of working with Google suite 

● Good understanding of charity sector/international development and/or international membership organisations 

● Experience of working with an HR management system 

Skills, personal attributes and behaviours 

Role specific skills 

● Ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality in relation to a range of information 

● Ability to be responsive to multiple requests 

● Ability to establish rapport with a variety of stakeholders 

● Strong interpersonal skills 

● High level of accuracy and attention to detail 

● Proactive approach to problem solving 

● Ability to prioritise work and work to deadlines within a changing environment. 

The following skills and personal attributes are expected of all staff 

● Flexible and adaptable; willing to contribute to other streams of work and across teams 

● Highly skilled communicator, in different formats, and capable of working across languages and cultures (using translation and interpretation support as relevant) ● Flexibility to work outside typical working hours and across time zones, especially in relation to line management responsibilities and to support cross team working ● Highly organised and self-motivated, able to manage and deliver on multiple concurrent tasks 

● Competent IT proficiency across a range of packages, able to learn quickly and troubleshoot problems independently 

● Ability to use initiative and work without close supervision, working both as part of a team and as an individual 

● Excellent command of English (oral and written) is a must, but working knowledge of Spanish, Portuguese, or French is appreciated to broaden the range of language skills within the Secretariat 

Due to the urgency of this role, we’ll be reviewing applications and holding interviews as soon as strong CVs are received. We’re ideally looking for someone who can start immediately, as our superstar currently in the role will be heading off to new adventures on 15 July. Candidates who are available to begin straight away will be prioritised.

As we anticipate a high level of interest, we will only be contacting shortlisted candidates. If you haven’t heard from us by 10 July, please consider your application unsuccessful. We truly appreciate your interest in joining Family for Every Child and thank you warmly in advance for taking the time to apply.

Please note that only candidates with the Right to Work in the UK should apply. We carry out full RTW checks and are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.

About Toynbee Hall

Based in the East End of London since 1884, Toynbee Hall is a charity working alongside people facing poverty, injustice, and inequality to build a fairer East London. We provide vital advice and support, working in partnership to tackle unfairness and ensure everyone has an equal chance to thrive.

Directorate background

The Advice Services directorate at Toynbee Hall is central to our commitment to address and alleviate poverty in London and beyond. Specialising in debt, welfare benefits, legal support, and generalist advice, our directorate has proven instrumental in significantly enhancing the financial wellbeing of those we serve. Last year alone, our efforts helped individuals and families to be over £23 million better off, showcasing the direct impact of our work.

Job purpose

The Director of Advice Services provides strategic leadership for Toynbee Hall’s Advice Services Directorate, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, accessible and impactful services that support people experiencing poverty, financial hardship, social exclusion and inequality.

Scope of role

The Interim Director of Advice Services is responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of all Advice Services delivered by Toynbee Hall.

This includes direct delivery services, partnership programmes, grant-funded projects and commissioned contracts delivered across community, healthcare and criminal justice settings.

The postholder will oversee a complex portfolio that includes:

• Debt advice and financial wellbeing services
• Welfare benefits and generalist advice services
• Legal advice services including employment and housing
• Welfare benefits services for customers with cancer
• Ministry of Justice-funded prison-based advice services
• Future commissioned, grant-funded and partnership programmes

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the strategic direction and development of the Advice Services Directorate.
• Contribute to organisational strategy and planning as a member of the Senior Management Team.
• Ensure services align with Toynbee Hall’s mission, strategic objectives and organisational priorities.

Financial Planning and Performance

• Work with Finance colleagues to develop budgets, forecasts and financial plans across the Directorate.
• Ensure services operate within agreed budgets and deliver value for money.
• Monitor financial performance across contracts, grants and programmes, identifying risks and opportunities.

Business Development and Growth

• Lead the development and delivery of the Directorate’s growth strategy.
• Identify new funding, commissioning and partnership opportunities.
• Lead the development of bids, tenders and funding proposals.

Contract and Partnership Management

• Provide strategic oversight of all contracts, grants and service agreements.
• Lead negotiations with commissioners, funders and delivery partners.
• Ensure effective contract management processes are embedded across the Directorate.

Service Portfolio Leadership

• Provide strategic oversight across all advice services including debt, welfare benefits, generalist advice, legal advice, Macmillan services and prison-based advice programmes.
• Ensure services are integrated where appropriate and provide a seamless client journey.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement across all service areas.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

• Experience of leading large-scale advice, support, health, justice or community services and projects.
• Proven experience of business development, income generation and securing funding or contracts
• Experience of leading complex partnerships / multi-agency programmes.
• Experience of negotiating and managing significant contracts, grants and service agreements.
• Strong understanding of service quality, governance, compliance and risk management.
• Experience of budget management, financial planning and working with finance colleagues to support effective financial oversight.
• Ability to build relationships and influence at senior level with funders, commissioners, regulators and strategic partners.

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience of working within or alongside the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS)
• Experience leading within a senior Advice Services Directorate
• Experience in developing or delivering advisor training and technical supervision.
• Understanding of criminal justice or mental-health service environments.

Our Benefits

Annual Leave

• 25 days of annual leave, plus 3 additional days for our Christmas shutdown (on top of bank holidays)
• After 2 years: +3 extra days of leave
• After 3 years: +1 additional day
• After 5 years: A total of 30 days annual leave, plus the 3-day Christmas shutdown

Pension

• Standard Life Pension Scheme – Employer contribution: 4%, Employee contribution: 5%

Additional Perks & Support

• Enhanced Sick Pay for peace of mind during illness
• Enhanced Maternity & Paternity Leave to support growing families
• Employee Eyecare Vouchers to support your vision health
• Employee Assistance Programme for free, confidential advice and support
• Mental Health First Aid to ensure workplace well-being
• Tenancy Deposit Scheme to help secure your home
• Interest-Free Season Ticket Loan for cost-effective commuting
• Cycle to Work Scheme to promote a healthier, greener way to travel
• Charity Mentoring Network to support professional development and networking
• Westfield Health Cash Plan to cover your healthcare needs specified in the Policy
• Perk Box
• Life Insurance

Please refer to the attached job description for more details.

About Adolescent Health Study

The Adolescent Health Study (AHS) is an ambitious new UKRI-funded initiative to establish a prospective, longitudinal population study that will generate a globally leading open science data platform and research resource. AHS aims to recruit at least 100,000 young people aged eight to 18 years from across the UK and to follow their mental and physical health and wellbeing over at least 10 years. It plans to collect data through questions and measures; to obtain bio-samples for a wide range of genomic and other high-throughput assays; and to capture linked data relevant to health and wellbeing from participants’ health, education and other administrative records. Recruitment will take place mainly through schools. There will be a strong emphasis on engaging with and involving young people, schools, parents and other relevant stakeholders in the design and delivery of the study, as well as on including young people that represent as wide as possible a range of backgrounds, experiences and characteristics. AHS will focus on enabling a wide range of research, including studies of the critical biological and social developments that occur during the transition from childhood to adulthood and the determinants of both mental and physical health and wellbeing in adolescents and young adults.

Purpose of the post

The HR Officer plays a key role in delivering an effective, professional, and compliant HR service across the organisation. Supporting both operational HR processes and employee experience, the post holder will contribute to attracting, developing, and retaining talent in a collaborative and values-driven research environment.

Main responsibilities

HR Operations & Administration Support

• Lead recruitment campaigns in consultation with hiring managers, including drafting job adverts, short-listing and coordinating interviews.
• Manage employee life cycle process, including background checks, onboarding and offboarding.
• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records in compliance with GDPR and organisational policies.
• Administer HR systems, contracts, and employment documentation.
• Manage relationship with 3rd party suppliers including HR consultancy and DBS check providers.
• Support payroll preparation including monthly absence reporting and ensuring accurate data submission and coordination with Finance/Payroll.
• Support the wider central administrative team as required.

 Employee Relations

• Provide first-line HR advice to managers and staff on policies, procedures, and employment matters.
• Support casework relating to absence, performance, disciplinary, and grievance processes.
• Support managers and the COO with complex people cases, working with the external HR partner as required.
• Promote a positive and inclusive working culture aligned with the organisation’s values.

Learning & Development

• Coordinate training activities and support professional development initiatives for research and support staff.
• Some delivery of internal people-related training
• Assist in identifying skills gaps and contributing to workforce development plans.

Policy & Compliance

• Ensure HR practices comply with employment legislation, charity sector regulations, and best practice.
• Monitor and assist with the development, review, and implementation of HR policies and procedures, including handbook updates.
• Support equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives across the organisation.

HR Projects & Continuous Improvement

• Contribute to HR projects such as staff engagement, wellbeing initiatives, and organisational development.
• Support the implementation of HR systems improvements and process efficiencies.
• Collect and analyse HR data to inform decision-making and reporting.

Knowledge, skills and experience 

Essential

1. Experience in an HR administrative or officer-level role.
2. Sound knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.
3. CIPD Level 3 or equivalent.
4. Experience of supporting payroll and finance processes.
5. Proven ability to establish and evolve people processes in a growing organisation.
6. Proficiency in HR systems, such as BreatheHR or equivalent, and Microsoft Office applications.
7. Experience of working in organisations with multiple staffing arrangements i.e. direct employees, secondees, contractors etc.
8. Strong organisational and administrative skills with excellent attention to detail.
9. Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism.
10. Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Desirable

1. CIPD Level 5 qualification (or working towards).
2. Experience working in the charity, academic, or research sector.
3. Experience supporting EDI and wellbeing initiatives.
4. Familiarity with public funded and/or project-based staffing environments.
5. Experience supporting or negotiating secondment arrangements, particularly within academic, charity or research environments.

Dimensions

• This is a full-time role, 37.5 hours per week, offered initially as an 18-month fixed-term contract with potential route to permanency.
• Flexible working across several geographical locations in the UK.  Travel may be required to AHS locations and partner organisations.
• AHS is a national organisation, and our activities take place across the UK.

Application Process

All candidates are required to complete the application form which can be found when clicking 'Apply Now' via Charity Job. 

Please refer to the ‘How to Apply’ section of the downloadable application form.

Please note that only applications submitted directly to Gravitate HR will be accepted for this position.

The closing date for applications is 11:00pm on Sunday 5 July 2026.

Interviews are currently expected to take place on Wednesday 5 and Thursday 6 August 2026.

Equal Opportunities Policy Statement

 AHS is an equal opportunities employer, and as such aims to treat all employees, consultants and applicants fairly. It is our policy to provide employment equality to all, irrespective of:

• Gender, including gender reassignment
• Marital or civil partnership status
• Having or not having dependants
• Religion or belief
• Race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins)
• Disability
• Sexual orientation
• Age

We are opposed to all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.  All job applicants and employees who work for us will be treated fairly and will not be unfairly discriminated against on any of the above grounds. Decisions about recruitment and selection, promotion, training or any other benefit will be made objectively and without unlawful discrimination. 

Values

It is an exciting time for the Adolescent Health Study (AHS) as we establish our senior leadership team and begin to plan the pilot studies. As the senior executive team evolves, the AHS values will be grounded in inclusivity, integrity, accountability, and collaboration.