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Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This role offers a unique opportunity to make this role your own and take the charity to the next level, with the full support of a dedicated, experienced team.
The successful candidate will ensure that the charity remains resilient and able to deliver on its commitment to grow and evolve to meet the needs of the people we serve.
The role is a mix of operational activity, day to day management and strategic thinking; with the continuous building and nurturing of external relationships with our NHS, public sector and not-for-profit stakeholders.
Working alongside a committed trustee board, skilled staff and volunteers, you will bring drive, experience and passion to the team. You’ll get terrific support from the outgoing postholder as needed, with the space to act and bring your own ideas to the forefront.
If you wish to apply, please provide an up-to-date CV, together with a document (max 2 x A4 pages) detailing how you meet the criteria shown on the person specification. You can use experiences gained from work, volunteering and life experiences.
To improve heart health outcomes across Greater Manchester.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The General Assembly of Unitarian and Free Christian Churches (GA) is the central charity that supports its member congregations, ministers and societies in England, Scotland and Wales. Its purpose is to promote free and inquiring religion, through inclusive, free-thinking communities that draw on wisdom from all sources, without doctrine or dogma. Our congregations are autonomous and locally led; the GA is not a hierarchical leadership body, but one that supports and leads alongside our members.
As Britain’s religious culture and context has changed, so have Unitarian communities, and the GA is in a process of adapting to best meet these changing needs.
The purpose of this role
This is a new role, being the operational engine to strengthen the organisation at a time of change. Shifts in the wider Unitarian movement with patterns of innovation, rebuilding, and growth alongside congregational vulnerabilities and closures mean that the GA’s operational function must adapt.
This role would suit someone who is excited to manage governance, systems, and data as strategic enablers in a values-driven organisation, who can drive change while delivering operational excellence.
This is a role with real scope to shape how an organisation that is approaching its centenary works in the years ahead - including how good data, digital systems, and emerging tools can support a small team to make best use of its resources and build capacity for relational work.
The Operations Director will work closely with the Chief Officer, and will be a collaborative and proactive enabler to lead a transition to a future-fit organisation that can better serve its members and have a greater impact.
You don't need to be Unitarian or a person of faith to apply. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and beliefs who are drawn to work within a values-led organisation.
What you’ll be doing
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Strategy & organisational development — Partner closely with the Chief Officer to shape strategy, translate priorities into action, and build the systems that make us resilient.
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Governance, legal & compliance — Serve as Company Secretary, stewarding our transition to CIO and ensuring we meet our legal and regulatory obligations with confidence.
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Financial oversight — Ensure financial management arrangements (including outsourced providers) deliver accurate, timely information and sound controls; work with the Honorary Treasurer and external accountants on budgeting, fund oversight and audit support, escalating risks and holding providers to account.
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Systems, data & digital — Lead our information infrastructure, oversee our CRM migration, and champion a culture of good data practice — including thoughtful use of AI where beneficial.
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People & HR — Line manage two team members and keep our HR and supplier relationships running smoothly, with care and clarity.
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Unitarian relationships — Nurture collaborative relationships with key Unitarian bodies from an operational perspective, including governance support for affiliated organisations.
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Events & communications — Take operational ownership of the Annual Meeting and ensure the infrastructure behind our communications is solid and reliable.
See the attached job description for more details.
What core skills and experience you’ll have
Essential:
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Senior operations leadership experience in a purpose-led or membership organisation, with a track record of building capacity through periods of organisational change.
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Experience leading complex organisational change and systems transformation, including the people dimensions of change.
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Experience managing contracted delivery of services by third parties
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Financial literacy sufficient to own management accounts, lead a budgeting process, and act as a critical friend to trustees on financial governance.
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Must be comfortable interrogating financial information and holding external providers to account; accountancy qualification not required
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Experience of leading the implementation or significant improvement of CRM, financial management, or other organisational systems — including managing migration risk
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Experience of people management, and good HR / employment practice
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Substantial experience of charity governance and compliance
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Solid working knowledge of UK charity law and Charity Commission requirements, including the ability to advise senior colleagues and trustees with confidence
Desirable:
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Experience of property or building management, including leases, tenancy relationships, and facilities oversight
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Experience of a CIO conversion or similar legal restructuring of a charity
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Familiarity with Salesforce or similar CRM platforms
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Experience of working in a faith, membership, or congregational context
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Company secretarial experience
Please note: We've listed essentials and desirables in good faith, but we know no one is the finished article. If you bring the right values, approach, and most of the experience, we would love to hear from you.
About the role
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JOB TITLE: Operations Director
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LOCATION: Central London (Essex Hall, WC2) and home-based hybrid. Minimum 2 days per week in the office.
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WORKING HOURS: Full-time 35 hours a week. Part-time applications (min. 4 days a week) considered.
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SALARY: £55,000 per annum
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START DATE: ASAP
Our benefits package includes
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30 days holiday, plus English bank holidays
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Workplace pension scheme (7% Employer contribution)
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Staff support budget for personal development and wellbeing
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Membership of financial wellbeing programme (Maji)
Apply for the position of Operations Director
Please submit a cover letter and CV via the link below to make an application.
In your cover letter, we would like to understand what it is that has drawn you to this role, what it is about the General Assembly’s work that resonates with you and what experience you have of implementing organisational change.
Please note: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. We are unable to sponsor visa applications.
The deadline for applications is Wednesday 15th July 2026, 23:59 BST.
Our initial first stage interviews will take place on Wednesday 22nd July 2026. These interviews will be in person at our Head Office, Essex Hall, in Central London and we will reimburse travel expenses (standard class public transport).
Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to a final video interview taking place week commencing 27th July 2026.
Please keep these dates free and be aware that there will be a short notice period before each interview.
The interview process will include a prepared task, and you'll be given plenty of time in advance to work on it - we want to see your thinking, not test you under pressure.
If you need any reasonable adjustments to support you through the interview process, please just let us know - we're happy to help.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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.
About us:
We are an international humanitarian organisation that strives for a world free from poverty, fear and oppression. We deliver life-saving and life-changing interventions to the world's poorest and most vulnerable people. From rapid emergency response to innovative development programming, we go to the hardest to reach places to make sure that no-one is left behind. With almost 4,500 staff of more than 50 nationalities, Concern operates in 25 of the world’s poorest countries, helping people to achieve major and long-lasting improvements in their lives.
Benefits
• 25 days’ annual leave, pro-rated for part-time employees.
• Office closure between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
• Flexible hours and hybrid working
• Annual leave purchase scheme
• Enhanced parental leave pay
• Stakeholder pension
• Season ticket loan
• Cycle scheme
• Life assurance
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Details of our benefits could be found on our website:
Job Location: London (Hybrid)
Staff are expected to come into their base office once per week or the monthly equivalent i.e. 4 times per month. Staff are also able to flex their start and finish times between the hours of 7am to 7pm daily.
Our London office is based in The Foundry, a vibrant and eco-conscious workspace near Vauxhall and Oval stations. You’ll be based in a dynamic, purpose‑driven workspace designed to support collaboration and innovation. The Foundry offers excellent on‑site facilities, including a vegan café and a programme of monthly events, workshops, and networking opportunities with other charities and NGOs based in the building. With its welcoming, inclusive environment, The Foundry is a place where people come together to work, connect, and drive meaningful change every day.
About the role:
The Digital Content Manager will provide leadership and strategic direction for all of Concern’s digital content.
The role’s overriding objective is to create a positive and engaging online experience for Concern’s digital audiences while maintaining a focus on content that increases awareness, income and brand loyalty.
Acting as the organisation's champion for content marketing, the post holder will not only drive donations, but design meaningful digital experiences that bring supporters closer to the impact their contribution has.
The role involves managing complex demands from across the organisation as well as being responsible for output and managing risk. As one of the organisation’s lead digital copywriters, they ensure all content is of the highest quality and meets our strategic objectives. They are also an expert in digital content management and accessibility best practise, ensuring the website is maintained according to the highest digital standards.
The role also involves daily liaison and negotiation with a multitude of internal stakeholders in the UK, Ireland and the US, as well as external stakeholders including content creators, designers and developers among others.
About You:
You’re an experienced digital content professional with a strong track record of writing, editing and quality‑assuring clear, accurate and accessible content. You understand tone, brand consistency and user needs, and you know how to shape content that performs.
You’re confident working across multiple CMS platforms including Drupal, and you bring solid technical knowledge of SEO and digital optimisation, web usability and audience behavior.
Highly organised and calm under pressure, you manage workflows, deadlines and competing priorities with ease. You collaborate well, build strong relationships and handle stakeholders with professionalism, flexibility and integrity.
You’re adaptable, curious about evolving digital trends, and motivated by meaningful work, with a interest in development and humanitarian issues.
To view the full job description and person specification, please click on the link below to download the document.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion:
Concern Worldwide encourages all qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, ethnicity and origin, disability, political beliefs, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status to apply to become a part of the organisation. Concern is against all forms of discrimination and unequal power relations, and is committed to promoting equality.
HOW TO APPLY
To apply for this post, please upload your CV and cover letter explaining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria for the position by 19th July 2026.
Your cover letter will be scored against each of the listed requirements listed in the job description. To give yourself the best chance of being shortlisted, please copy each criterion into your cover letter and explain under each one how your experience, skills, or achievements demonstrate your suitability. Use clear and specific examples to support your statements.
Concern will shortlist only those candidates who clearly demonstrate that they meet all essential criteria. If a high number of applicants meet the minimum requirements, we will assess and score candidates against the desirable criteria to determine who will be invited to interview. It is therefore important that your application provides detailed evidence of how you meet the role requirements.
All candidates who are short-listed for an interview will be notified via email.
Candidates must be legally entitled to work in the UK at the time of application.
Conditions of Appointment:
Pay band: GB6
London: £43,250- £48,055, based on full time hours (35 hours per week)
New employees typically start at the beginning of their pay band.
We are looking for someone who can start end of September to allow a handover before the current postholder begins maternity leave.
The successful post holder will be required to complete a criminal records self-declaration form and a Basic DBS check.
Having a criminal record will not necessarily debar you from working with Concern Worldwide. This will depend on the nature of the position, together with the circumstances and background of your offences.
Our mission is to permanently transform the lives of people living in extreme poverty, tackling its root causes and building resilience.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join the Cardinal Hume Centre and use your estates expertise to help create a safe, welcoming and well-managed environment for young people, children and families facing homelessness and poverty. This is a rare opportunity to lead both the long-term stewardship of a significant Central London site and the day-to-day delivery of facilities, compliance and improvement works that directly support life-changing services.
Working closely with the CEO, Head of HR and Operations and Board of Trustees, you will shape future plans for the Centre’s estate while ensuring the building remains safe, compliant, efficient and fit for purpose. If you are a strategic and practical estates professional who wants their work to make a tangible social impact, we would like to hear from you.
What you’ll do
· Lead long-term estate planning, capital works and building improvements – you’ll support our master planning for the site
· Oversee day-to-day maintenance, facilities management and contractor performance to keep the Centre running effectively
· Take organisational responsibility for health and safety, fire safety and statutory compliance
· Manage budgets, procurement and reporting, delivering value for money while supporting excellent services
· Support sustainability and environmental improvements that strengthen the Centre for the future
What we’re looking for
· A skilled estates, facilities or property professional with strong experience in building compliance, maintenance and project delivery
· A confident communicator who can work effectively with senior leaders, trustees, contractors and colleagues across the organisation
· Someone who can balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational oversight
· A values-led individual who is motivated by the opportunity to support a charity tackling youth and family homelessness
The Centre enables families, children and young people to overcome poverty and avoid homelessness.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Who We Are
The Race Equality Foundation is a national charity working to tackle systemic racism and create the conditions for everyone to live healthy, secure and fulfilling lives and we are looking to appoint a Head of Operations.
We combine evidence, co-production and practical action to address the root causes of racial inequality. Our work focuses not only on identifying inequality, but on challenging the structural racism, discrimination and unequal distribution of power that drive them. We work alongside communities, practitioners, policymakers and institutions to develop evidence-informed solutions that improve services, strengthen communities and promote racial justice.
Today, our work spans health and care, employment, housing and community wellbeing. Through partnerships, research, training and policy influence, we continue to demonstrate what meaningful anti-racist systems change can look like in practice.
We are based in London but have a national remit.
Job description
We are entering a period of organisational growth and staff restructure, and the Head of Operations will be a new post at REF. The postholder will be ready to get stuck in, helping us to identify and address operational challenges before they become problems and reduce unnecessary demands on managers and senior leaders. We are looking for an effective communicator to ensure that people, systems, and resources support the Foundation's mission and enable staff to do their best work. We are not looking for someone who believes every challenge requires a new process. We are looking for someone who can exercise sound judgement, introduce structure where it adds value and help create the conditions in which staff and managers can focus on delivering impact.
The postholder will be expected to bring a strong commitment to anti-racism, equity and inclusion in the way they approach organisational development and operational leadership.
See Job Description document for full details of the role and responsibilties.
Person Specification
Essential
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Several years' experience in a senior operational, organisational development or business management role in a charity or voluntary sector organisation.
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Proven track record of driving operational improvements, such as overseeing or changing workflow systems, maintaining good governance and compliance policies, or implementing strong CRM systems.
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Proven track record of managing HR procedures, demonstrating strong interpersonal and communication skills, and effective people management including maintaining working relationships with colleagues at all levels.
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Strong ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery.
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Strong understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion and the ability to apply these principles in practice.
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Experience of working in an environment that requires flexibility, sound judgement and the ability to manage competing priorities.
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Experience of managing external suppliers, advisers or contractors.
Desirable
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Experience of working in a time and resource limited small or start up organisation.
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Experience of working with boards, trustees or governance structures.
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Experience of working in an organisation committed to equality, anti-racism or social justice.
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Knowledge of organisational development or change management approaches.
Pay and Conditions of Service
This post is permanent and full-time.
The annual full-time salary for this role is between £47,911 and £53,890, inclusive of London Weighting.
There is a probationary period of six months for this post.
Full-time staff are entitled to 25 days holiday leave per annum with additional days for long service. The timing of holidays must fit in with the needs of the Foundation and must be agreed in advance. In addition to annual holidays there is paid time off for national holidays.
The post will be based in the London office at Unit 17 Deane House Studios, 27 Greenwood Place, London NW5 1LB. Staff currently work two to three days a week in the office.
The normal working week is 35 hours for full-time posts, seven hours per day, Monday to Friday. Standard office hours are 9.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m.
Application Process
Applications will only be accepted via the portal on our website. We will require the submission of an application form and a supporting statement. The supporting statement should be 2-3 pages max, 12 point font. We will not accept applications via CV. Candidates invited to interview will be asked to prepare a presentation, details will be shared in advance.
Please note that we are only able to appoint people who are eligible to work in the UK.
Tackling racism, transforming lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Help us tackle disadvantage and change lives
Salford Foundation is looking for an experienced, values-driven Head of Finance & Resources to join our Senior Management Team and play a key role in ensuring the organisation is financially sustainable, well governed and equipped to deliver lasting impact for local people.
This is a varied and hands-on leadership role combining strategic responsibility with operational delivery. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you will lead our finance function while providing oversight of people, IT, facilities, data protection and organisational compliance.
You will be responsible for financial planning and reporting, budgeting, risk management and governance, while supporting colleagues across the organisation with the systems, processes and resources they need to succeed. You will also act as the Foundation's Data Protection Officer and lead officer to the Audit and Risk Committee.
About you
You will be a qualified accountant with strong financial management experience and the ability to communicate financial information clearly to a wide range of audiences. You will be comfortable operating both strategically and operationally, bringing a collaborative and solutions-focused approach to leadership.
You will have experience of supporting organisational decision-making, managing people and resources, and building effective relationships with colleagues, trustees and external partners.
Most importantly, you will share our commitment to tackling disadvantage, supporting communities and creating opportunities for people to thrive.
We offer
- Salary of £45,000 - £50,000 per annum
- Hybrid working
- Opportunity to influence the future direction of a respected local charity
- Supportive and values-led working environment
- The chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people across Salford
Join us and help ensure Salford Foundation has the resources, systems and leadership needed to continue tackling disadvantage and changing lives.
A job and person specification is attached along with our company benefits.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Lead the operations, governance and compliance that enable Solving Kids' Cancer UK to deliver its mission and impact for children and families affected by neuroblastoma. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will play a critical role in ensuring the charity operates effectively, compliantly and sustainably.
This broad and varied leadership role spans governance, risk, HR, IT, data protection and organisational operations, supporting delivery of the charity's strategy through robust systems, policies and processes. Acting as Company Secretary, you will work closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees, providing advice on governance, regulatory requirements and best practice. As a member of the Leadership Team, you will oversee key operational functions, lead cross-organisational projects and deputise for the CEO where required.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for a strategic, highly organised and values-driven leader with strong experience in charity operations, governance and compliance. You will have a track record of ensuring organisations are well run, compliant and effectively managed, with the ability to oversee multiple operational areas and support strong governance and decision-making at Board level.
You will be comfortable working across a broad remit, including governance, risk, HR, IT and data protection, and confident providing clear, practical advice to senior leaders and trustees.
Person specification
Key requirements include:
- Significant senior-level experience in operations, governance or compliance within a charity or similar environment.
- Strong understanding of charity governance and regulation, with experience supporting boards and senior leadership.
- Experience overseeing organisational functions such as HR, IT, data protection or risk.
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and lead cross-organisational work effectively.
- Strong judgement, integrity and the ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion.
See our Recruitment Pack for the full role description and specification and for information about Solving Kids' Cancer UK.
This is an opportunity to make a significant contribution at the heart of a small, ambitious charity where strong operations are a vital enabler of impact for children and families.
Location: Home-based, within easy reach of London, with regular travel to the London office and occasional UK-wide travel.
First-stage interview: Thursday 6 August
Second-stage interview: Thursday 13 August
Our vision is a future where no child dies of the childhood cancer neuroblastoma or suffers due to the treatment they receive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AND RESOURCES
Are you a strategic finance leader with a heart for mission? Do you want your professional expertise to count for something more than the bottom line?
We are delighted to be partnering with Church Mission Society (CMS), who are supporting close to 200 people in mission across dozens of countries. CMS exists to make disciples of Jesus at the edges: the edges of church, the edges of society and the edges of our own comfort zones. They are now seeking an exceptional Director of Finance and Resources to help ensure that extraordinary mission work is sustainable for generations to come.
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), you will provide strategic leadership across CMS's financial sustainability, organisational infrastructure and central resources. This is a genuinely broad and influential role, covering financial strategy and management, investments, treasury, risk, legal and regulatory compliance, property and facilities, IT and cyber security, and relevant corporate governance. You will also maintain oversight of CMS's residual pension-related responsibilities following the transfer of its defined-benefit pension liabilities.
You will be a trusted adviser to the CEO, board of trustees and the wider SLT, providing the financial clarity, challenge and confidence that enables CMS to make wise, sustainable decisions in service of its mission. You will lead four direct reports (Head of Finance, Head of ICT, Facilities Manager and Head of Legal) and serve as a director of a number of CMS subsidiary entities.
You will be a qualified accountant with significant senior finance leadership experience, ideally gained within a charity, not-for-profit or values-led organisation. You will bring proven ability to contribute at executive and board level, with strong experience across financial planning, audit, internal controls, management reporting and team leadership.
But this role asks for more than technical expertise. CMS is looking for someone with the wisdom to balance prudent stewardship with an appropriate appetite for risk, the courage to hold a firm line when necessary, and the humility to lead in a way that enables others to flourish. You will be collaborative, relational and service-oriented, someone who genuinely believes that finance exists to serve mission, not the other way around.
A committed and practising Christian, you will be in sympathy with CMS's values, its Ethos Statement, and its pioneering, servant-hearted approach to God's work in the world.
If you would like an informal conversation, please contact Adam Stacey, CEO at Charisma Charity Recruitment.
Applications should please be submitted through the Charisma website, to include your CV and supporting statement. Please see candidate pack for full details.
We particularly welcome applications from individuals from minority groups as they are currently underrepresented within our organisation at this level. All appointments are made on merit of skill, experience and potential as set out in the job description and person specification.
All applicants must be wholeheartedly committed to the aims, ethos, and values of Church Mission Society. This post is subject to an Occupational Requirement that the post holder is a practising Christian, under Part 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010.
Closing date: 5 July 2026
First stage interviews with CMS: 14 July (online)
Second stage interviews with CMS: 29 July (in person)
People at the edges are at the centre of God’s story. Join our global movement as we follow Jesus to the edges together.



Cerebra is the national charity dedicated to improving the lives of children with neurological conditions and their families. We provide vital research, support, and practical solutions that empower families facing complex challenges.
With an annual income of £3 million and a headcount of 68 employees, we have ambitious plans to double our income between 2025 and 2027, ensuring we can extend our impact, reach more families, and drive real change. To achieve this, we are investing in fundraising innovation, income generating ventures, and strategic partnerships, alongside enhancing our brand to increase our national recognition.
Our work is underpinned by our values ensuring that everything we do aligns with our mission to create a better world for children with neurological conditions.
This is an incredibly exciting time to join Cerebra, as we are preparing to launch our new strategy and brand. The COO is a vital leadership role that will support the drive towards even greater impact for children and families across the UK.
Our Services
Sleep Advice Service
Cerebra understands that if you have a child that doesn’t sleep, the whole family suffers. Many children with neurological conditions suffer from disrupted sleep. Our sleep advice service provides bespoke advice and support so that everyone can get a good night’s sleep.
Legal Rights Service
Our Legal Rights Service provides help and support to families of children with neurological conditions when they are faced with barriers and difficulties in accessing statutory support services they are entitled to. The service provides information on their legal entitlements.
Book and Toy Library Service
Our specialist postal lending library contains a wide range of books for both adults and children, plus a selection of sensory toys specifically chosen for children with a neurological condition.
Innovation and Product Design Service
Our Innovation Service designs and builds bespoke products that cater to the specific needs of children with neurological conditions. The aim of the service is to make products that are desirable and exciting, therefore promoting social inclusion, peer acceptance and enabling children to participate in everyday activities that are so often close to them.
Information Products
Cerebra publishes different information products to help families with a child with a neurological condition. Our information products offer comprehensive, up-to-date support and research-driven strategies to assist families with a wide range of issues.
Buzgi and Toy Adaptation Service
Cerebra designs and builds bespoke assistive equipment for disabled children, this includes creating custom mobility aids, switch‑adapted toys, and other innovative solutions to help children access play, learning, and independence.
The Bugzi - a mini powered wheelchair for children offers many children their first experience of independent mobility. It uses either a joystick or switches and adaptable seating for complex needs, and helps develop spatial awareness, confidence, and early mobility skills. The Bugzi is available through a national loan scheme.
Additionally, we operate commercial services (including a web shop) to supplement our income to support children and their families.
Our services are provided to families free of charge.
Job Title:
Chief Operating Officer
Reports To:
Chief Executive Officer
Direct reports:
3 senior managers (Finance (headcount of 3), HR (headcount of 1), IT (headcount of 5))
Purpose of the Role:
The Chief Operating Officer will play a vital role in supporting the Chief Executive Officer, Board and Leadership Team to deliver Cerebra’s vision and ambitious strategic aims. The Chief Operating Officer will provide strategic leadership and operational management across key areas within Cerebra including:
- Operational Systems
- Governance
- Compliance
- Finance and Growth
This is a pivotal executive leadership role, responsible for driving organisational performance, sustainability and growth. The COO will translate Cerebra’s strategic ambitions into effective operational delivery, ensuring robust governance, financial stewardship and a high-performing, values-led culture.
As a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board, the COO will lead core operational services and commercial activity, enabling the charity to maximise impact and generate sustainable income in support of its charitable objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic & Executive Leadership
- Partner with the CEO and Board to deliver strategic priorities, growth and long-term sustainability
- Collaboration with the Director’s Group to ensure strategic alignment across the charity. The Director’s Group consists of:
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Operating Officer
Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications
Director of Research and Support Services
- Provide expert advice on finance, operations, commercial performance and organisational risk
- Lead organisational planning, business continuity, and operational resilience
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability and inclusion
Finance, Commercial & Sustainability
- Lead financial strategy, planning and performance, ensuring long-term sustainability
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow and financial controls
- Lead and develop Cerebra’s strategy for commercial income , ensuring alignment with charitable objectives
- Support funding growth through strong financial insight and business case development
- Ensure robust financial governance, audit and compliance
Operations & Infrastructure
- Lead and strengthen operational functions including HR, IT, governance and administration
- Ensure effective systems, processes and infrastructure that enable growth, efficiency and impact
- Oversee procurement, contracts, facilities, and organisational compliance
- Drive innovation and value for money across operations
People & Culture
- Champion a positive, inclusive and high-performing organisational culture
- Oversee HR strategy, workforce planning and leadership development
- Ensure compliance with employment law and best practice
- Promote wellbeing, engagement and organisational effectiveness
Digital & Technology
- Provide strategic oversight of IT, data and digital development
- Ensure systems are secure, resilient and aligned to organisational needs
- Leverage data and technology to improve insight, decision-making and organisational impact
Governance, Risk & Compliance
- Ensure effective governance frameworks, risk management and regulatory compliance
- Support the CEO and Board with high-quality reporting and strategic insight
- Lead safeguarding, data protection and organisational risk strategy
- Drive a strong culture of accountability and ethical practice
Leadership & Management
- Lead and develop a small senior team across finance, HR and IT
- Build capability, strengthen performance, and embed a collaborative culture
- Model Cerebra’s values and leadership behaviours
Key Attributes
- Strategic and commercially minded leader with strong operational delivery experience
- Strong financial leadership and business acumen
- Proven track record of driving income growth, sustainability and organisational performance
- Skilled in governance, risk and stakeholder engagement
Please see attached job description for the Person Specification.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Donor Experience & Stewardship Manager
Salary £39,000 - £43,000 per annum - subject to skills and experience
Hours of work 37.5 hours a week over five days
Base Hybrid working for the foreseeable future, with regular attendance in the office two days a week, including Thursdays, at our central office:
· Pears Building, Pond Street, London, NW3 2PP
Other office days may be worked from other sites at:
· Barnet Hospital, Wellhouse Lane, Barnet, EN5 3DJ
· Chase Farm Hospital, 127 The Ridgeway, Enfield, EN2 8JL
The role
The donor experience & stewardship manager will report to the head of fundraising operations & strategy.
We are seeking a creative and driven donor experience manager to join our team on a permanent basis. Working alongside members of the wider team, you will lead on creating and delivering a gold-standard experience for major donors supporting the Royal Free Charity, showcasing the impact their support has across our hospital sites. Your efforts will play a key role in ensuring continued, uplifted support for the charity.
You will play an important role within our Fundraising Operations team, helping to build relationships, and increase income, in a pivotal year for the charity, after our silent phase capital campaign launch. Your role will have a varied workload, supporting both core fundraising and campaign stewardship. The role will offer significant scope for development, giving you the opportunity to develop your skillset in a supportive, ambitious, and high-performing team.
The team
Our dynamic fundraising department generated c.£4m through donations in 2025/26, and we are now preparing for an ambitious multi-million-pound campaign in support of a ground-breaking cancer centre on the site of the Royal Free Hospital.
We pride ourselves on being a supporter focused and agile function, working at the heart of the charity to deliver impact for patients and staff across our hospitals.
Responsible for attracting and retaining donors, and delivering an outstanding supporter experience, the fundraising department comprises three teams which work closely together to achieve our shared objectives:
· Our philanthropy & campaigns team builds relationships with individual philanthropists, trusts, foundations, corporate organisations and intermediaries, giving or facilitating donations of £10,000 or more to the charity each year. They lead major appeal activity for the charity, currently focused on our cancer campaign, and special events to support these activities.
· Our public fundraising team harnesses the support and energy of individuals and groups, helping them to give back in the way that works for them. This includes committed giving, in memory support, gifts in wills, and fundraising events and challenges.
· Our fundraising operations team provides operational support for our fundraising and the wider charity through the provision of data and systems support, prospect research, stewardship, gift processing, reporting and governance. We underpin the work of the entire department.
Organisation
The Royal Free Charity stands at the threshold of its most important period of development.
Our vision is for everyone served by the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust (RFL) to have access to world-leading healthcare, delivered by a thriving workforce, and driven by medical research that has a global impact. We support the 17,000 staff of the RFL and their two million patients across Barnet, Chase Farm, North Mid and Royal Free hospitals and more than 30 NHS services.
Through the services we provide, and the programmes and equipment we fund, we make a profound and immediate difference to patients’ experiences of care.
The recruitment process
To apply for this post, send your:
- CV (please include your last employer and dates of employment)
- Cover letter addressing how you meet the criteria set out in the job description and person specification,
Please note, that applications submitted without a cover letter may not be considered for this role.
Closing date for application: Monday, 20 July 2026, 12 noon.
Interview date: Wednesday, 29 July 2026/ Thursday, 30 July 2026
Please kindly note that we may close the job advert before the closing date if we receive a large volume of applications.
- You must be eligible to work in the UK
We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may require during the recruitment process.
As an equal opportunities’ employer, the Royal Free Charity is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership.
We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join the Royal Free Charity and act in line with our values of dedication, innovation, partnership, energy and respect.
Benefits:
Core benefits
· 25 days of paid holiday, plus three-day office closure rest period between Christmas and New Year, and UK bank holidays. This increases to 30 days leave after five completed years of continuous employment (all leave is pro rata for part-time employees).
· A contributory pension scheme, where we match your 4% contribution towards your pension. If you choose to increase your payments into your pension scheme, we’ll match your contribution up to 9%.
· A sick pay package that offers one month’s full pay and one month’s half pay in any 12-month period if you’ve been with us for less than two years. This rises to two months’ full pay and two months’ half pay in any 12-month period after two years of continuous employment.
· Occupational maternity pay and paternity pay packages that provide more generous support than statutory pay alone.
· A flexible working policy to support our employees’ work/life balance.
Support for your financial wellbeing
As a member of the Royal Free family, you’ll be entitled to benefit from:
· Expert financial advice from our financial partner, the London Credit Union
· Savings on purchases with the Blue Light Card
· Our Death in Service benefit
Support for your health and wellbeing
· Subsidised gym, pool and classes at our Rec Club in Hampstead
· Secure bicycle parking and shower facilities at our Hampstead site
· Guided meditation
· Menopause peer support group
· Employee Assistance Programme offering 24-hour access to free confidential advice and support on work and personal issues.
We accelerate improvement and innovation beyond what the NHS can provide



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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:
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Build on Hackney School of Food's strong foundations to deliver the next phase of our strategy and growth.
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Increase and diversify income through fundraising, partnerships and commercial opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability.
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Lead, support and develop a small, ambitious team, fostering a positive and inclusive culture where people can thrive.
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Strengthen relationships with funders, partners and local businesses, helping Hackney School of Food deepen its impact.
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Work closely with the Board to embed strong governance, organisational systems and long-term planning for the future.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
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Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for Hackney School of Food, ensuring delivery of its mission, vision and long-term objectives.
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Lead the development and implementation of Hackney School of Food's annual business plan and organisational priorities.
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Work with the Board to evolve organisational strategy, identify opportunities, manage risks and support sustainable growth.
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Monitor, report on and respond to organisational performance against agreed objectives and impact measures.
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Champion Hackney School of Food externally, strengthening its profile and influence.
Financial sustainability and income generation
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Oversee organisational budgeting, financial planning, forecasting and cashflow management, working closely with the Treasurer and accountant.
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Lead income generation across the organisation, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, sponsorship and earned income.
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Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, sponsors and strategic partners.
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Ensure all funding commitments are met, including grant reporting, monitoring and evaluation requirements.
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Identify new opportunities to diversify income and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.
Partnerships & External Relations
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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.
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Build and maintain strong relationships with other key stakeholders, including local authorities, funders and sponsors.
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Represent Hackney School of Food at meetings, events, and public forums.
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Champion the value of food education and contribute to wider local and national conversations.
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Ensure programmes remain responsive to community needs through ongoing engagement and consultation.
Governance and public benefit
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Ensure the organisation operates in line with its CIC objectives and delivers clear public benefit.
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Support the Board of Directors to fulfil its governance responsibilities through high-quality reporting, planning and decision-making.
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Prepare Board papers, reports and agendas, ensuring timely and accurate information is available to support effective governance.
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Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Directors quarterly.
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Act as the primary link between the Board and the operational team.
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Maintain effective governance, delegated authority and accountability frameworks.
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Support the Board in meeting all statutory and regulatory obligations relating to the CIC.
People, Culture and safeguarding
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Provide leadership to a small core team (currently c.4 employees), directly managing staff and fostering a positive, inclusive culture.
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Provide oversight and support for a wider network of approx. 15 freelance contractors to ensure consistently high-quality delivery.
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Lead recruitment, induction, performance management and professional development in line with safer recruitment and equality principles.
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Ensure effective organisational structures, clear roles, and performance accountability.
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Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.
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Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, embedding safeguarding throughout the organisation maintaining compliance with all relevant requirements.
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Develop organisational systems, policies and practices that support an inclusive, high-performing workplace.
Risk Management & Compliance
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Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.
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Oversee organisational policies, procedures and continuous improvement, ensuring policies and legal requirements are up to date, clearly communicated and embedded across the organisation.
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Ensure compliance with employment law, health and safety, safeguarding, GDPR and other relevant legislation.
Personal specification
Essential experience
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Senior leadership experience with responsibility for organisational performance and accountability.
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Experience securing income through fundraising, partnerships and/or commercial activity.
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Experience of financial leadership, including budget setting, forecasting and cashflow oversight.
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Experience working closely with a Board, Trustees or governing body to translate strategic vision into operational delivery.
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Experience building and managing successful partnerships with funders, businesses and community stakeholders.
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Experience in managing and motivating a team, creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
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Experience of governance, compliance and organisational risk management.
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Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth or community context.
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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
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Passion for Hackney School of Food's mission and the role of food education in improving health, wellbeing and community connection.
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Strategic thinker who is equally comfortable with hands-on operational leadership.
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Entrepreneurial, resourceful and committed to building long-term financial sustainability and identifying growth opportunities.
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Ability to lead a team through change with sensitivity, clarity and kindness.
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Strong communicator with excellent relationship-building skills.
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Confident decision-maker with a high level of personal accountability.
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Committed to equity, inclusion and community-led practice.
Desirable
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Experience working within a Community Interest Company (CIC), social enterprise or charity.
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Knowledge of Hackney, its communities and local stakeholder landscape.
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Experience of working in food education, community food, gardening, environmental education or a related field.
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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.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.