Head of operation jobs

Head of Operational Delivery | Lead National STEM Education Programmes | Maternity Cover

EDT is seeking an exceptional Head of Operational Delivery to lead national student and school engagement activities across the UK during an exciting period of transformation. This is a rare opportunity for a strategic and people-focused leader to take ownership of operational delivery, student recruitment, programme performance and team leadership within a respected education charity. As our Head of Operational Delivery, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring thousands of young people access inspiring STEM experiences that improve social mobility and create pathways into future careers.

Why Join EDT?

At EDT, our values drive everything we do:

• Passionate about creating equitable access to STEM careers.
• Dynamic in our response to a changing world.
• Collaborative with industry, educators and communities.
• Respectful of young people's potential and lived experiences.

As Head of Operational Delivery, you'll help shape the experiences of young people across the UK while leading teams that directly contribute to EDT's mission of inspiring the next generation of talent.

What You'll Be Doing

• Lead and develop EDT's Operational Delivery Team, ensuring exceptional programme delivery, student engagement and school recruitment nationwide.
• Oversee performance, capacity planning, budgets, KPIs, reporting and operational effectiveness across multiple programmes.
• Develop and implement student recruitment and engagement strategies that drive growth and impact.
• Work closely with senior leaders to improve efficiency, support programme growth and maximise delivery outcomes.
• Champion safeguarding, quality standards, continuous improvement and outstanding learner experiences.
• Build strong relationships with schools, colleges, universities, funders, volunteers, alumni and partners.

Please refer to the attached Job Description for the full responsibilities and person specification.

Who We're Looking For

• Experienced operational leader with a track record of managing teams, programmes and organisational performance.
• Strong background in education, youth engagement, programme delivery, student support or charity operations.
• Experience managing budgets, KPIs, reporting frameworks and operational planning.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to identify opportunities, solve challenges and drive continuous improvement.
• Passion for supporting young people and creating meaningful educational opportunities.
• Outstanding stakeholder management, leadership and communication skills.

What's In It For You?

• Full-time maternity cover contract from 28 September 2026 to 3 August 2027.
• From £36,000 to £49,000 per annum, depending on skills and experience.
• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Up to 10% employer pension contribution.
• Hybrid and flexible working.
• Opportunity to lead national programmes with significant social impact.

Location

• Hybrid working.
• Office base in any of our regional offices -  Manchester, Birmingham, Welwyn Garden City, Plymouth or Southampton.
• National remit with occasional travel and overnight stays.

Why This Role Stands Out

• This is more than an operational leadership role.
• As Head of Operational Delivery, you'll influence how young people engage with STEM education across the UK.
• As Head of Operational Delivery, you'll lead national recruitment, engagement and delivery strategies that support thousands of students each year.
• As Head of Operational Delivery, you'll work closely with senior leaders to shape the future direction of an ambitious and growing charity.
• As Head of Operational Delivery, you'll have the opportunity to create lasting impact for young people, schools and communities nationwide.

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We're looking for a Head of Internal Services to help shape the future of Calder Rivers Trust.

This is a senior leadership role with organisation-wide responsibility for ensuring the Trust is well run, well governed, financially sound, compliant and resilient. You'll provide the foundations that enable our teams to deliver environmental impact today while building the capacity and capability we need for the future.

Working closely with the General Manager, Board and leadership team, you'll help guide organisational development, support strategic decision-making, and ensure the Trust has the systems, information, resources and assurance needed to grow with confidence.

You'll lead our approach to finance, governance, risk, compliance, people, health and safety, organisational performance, systems and technology. You'll ensure these areas work together effectively, with clear responsibilities, strong controls and practical arrangements that support colleagues across the Trust.

As a trusted adviser to trustees and senior leaders, you'll provide insight, support and constructive challenge, helping ensure good decisions are informed by strong information and a clear understanding of organisational priorities, opportunities and risks.

You'll also play a leading role in organisational planning and development, helping translate strategy into action, strengthening management practice, improving how information flows across the organisation, and identifying opportunities to improve how we work.

We're looking for someone who combines strategic thinking with practical leadership. You'll enjoy bringing clarity to complexity, improving systems, developing people and helping organisations perform at their best. You might come from a finance, governance, operations, organisational development, HR, charity leadership or corporate services background. What matters most is your ability to take a whole-organisation view and turn ambition into effective organisational practice.

We’re a flexible, human-centred organisation. The role is full-time (35 hours/week), with 28 days’ holiday plus public holidays. You can choose a working pattern that fits your life, and we’re happy to explore reduced hours if that’s what you need.

If this sounds like a role you could grow into, even if you don’t tick every box right now, we’d be keen to hear from you. Send us an application and tell us what you’d bring to the role.

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Calder Rivers Trust is an environmental charity with a Team dedicated to protecting and enhancing the rivers, brooks, becks, and streams of Calderdale, Kirklees, and Wakefield. Our work reaches every part of the Calder catchment touched by water, bringing together colleagues, partners, landowners, communities, and supporters to act with urgency and integrity. Together, we are working towards a future where healthy rivers support thriving wildlife, resilient landscapes, and prosperous communities.

We are a people-centred organisation, and when you join Calder Rivers Trust, you'll be supported to do your best work, develop your skills, and contribute as part of a team making a positive difference. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is respected, valued, and given equal opportunities to fulfil their potential, free from discrimination.

A Calder Rivers Trust, we value people who are committed to doing their job well, supporting their colleagues, and helping the organisation succeed. If that's you, we'd love to hear from you.

Standard Terms & Benefits:

• Location: Hybrid Home/Halifax
• 35 hour working week
• 28 days Annual Leave + public holidays
• Rivers Trust Group Pension Membership (9% employer contribution - subject to eligibility)
• Life Assurance Scheme (with the Pension Scheme)
• Flexible working and Working From Home

AT KSAAS, the Operations Manager leads the day-to-day management of the office and administration team, oversees organisational operational and administrative systems, and acts as the key point of contact for all operational matters. They work collaboratively with the leadership team to develop, implement, evaluate and improve organisational operational policies and procedures, ensuring legal compliance, ethical working, effective service coordination and high standard client, staff, partner and stakeholder experience. They line manage the administrative staff and coordinate the volunteering & training services. At KSAAS, the operations lead is supported directly by the CEO, Head of ISVA Services & Head of Therapeutic Services and indirectly by the Board of Trustees.  We are looking for a candidate who has extensive experience of administrative or operations roles, preferably at manager level, and able to work in the Canterbury office several days a week. 

Kent Sexual Assault & Abuse Service is a feminist organisation that firmly believes that sexual violence against women and girls arises from the patriarchal social structure in our society.  We believe this social structure causes and propagates gender inequality and that sexual violence is one tool that is used to control women and girls as part of this social dynamic.  We recognise the sexual violence affects people of all genders and provides a safe space for all survivors of sexual violence across Kent & Medway, where they can access the high-quality trauma-informed specialist practical and therapeutic support they need to recover from the impact of sexual violence and rebuild their lives.

Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. We therefore encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.

The Head of Policy & Influencing is responsible for shaping and delivering the Foundation’s policy and influencing strategy within the Impact on Urban Health (IoUH) directorate. The role leads the development of parliamentary and government engagement strategies, ensuring a coordinated and impactful approach across multiple programme areas.

The Head of Policy & Influencing provides strategic oversight of all influencing work, guiding Policy & Influencing Managers and the Policy & Convening Manager, and advising colleagues on how to maximise policy impact. The role drives a unified urban health influencing strategy that aligns with the Foundation’s priorities and contributes to meaningful changes in policy.

The Head of Policy & Influencing builds and maintains strong relationships with stakeholders across government, the policy sector, and partner organisations, acting as a spokesperson and creating opportunities for collaboration. The role supports senior leadership with stakeholder engagement, oversees budgets and manages a team, while ensuring diversity, equity and inclusion are embedded in all influencing activity.

Key Responsibilities 

• Develop and deliver our parliamentary and government engagement strategies across all our issue areas.
• Provide strategic oversight of programmatic influencing strategies developed by the Policy & Influencing Managers and Policy & Convening Manager, ensuring a coherent and complementary approach across all programmes. 
• Lead on our cross-programme urban health influencing strategy.
• Provide high-level strategic advice to Heads of Programme and Portfolio Managers on programmatic influencing strategies and the development of influencing partnerships. 
• Develop and maintain a broad range of stakeholder relationships, with a view to creating opportunities for us to partner on our influencing work and acting as a spokesperson for our work at external events.
• Support senior leadership with stakeholder engagement.
• Oversee budgets for our programmatic policy and influencing work.
• Deputise for the Director of Policy, Influencing & Communications as required.
• Line manage the Policy & Influencing Managers and Policy & Convening Manager.
• Bring a diversity, equity and inclusion lens to all our policy and influencing activity, and support cross-organisational work on diversity, equity and inclusion. 

Role responsibilities are not exhaustive, and you would be reasonably expected to take on wider tasks that are commensurate with the level of your role. 

Skills, abilities, and attributes

• Excellent interpersonal and networking skills at all levels.
• Enjoys working in places with a clear and ambitious mission, a matrix structure and ways of working that challenge the norm.

Knowledge, experience, and qualifications

• Significant experience working in public affairs and policy in a UK setting, with demonstrable impact on policy making in Westminster Parliament and/or the devolved administrations. 
• Experience leading teams to deliver against impactful influencing strategies.
• Experience working across a broad policy brief, and the ability to develop expertise and familiarity with different policy areas quickly.
• Experience developing and managing budgets.
• In-depth understanding of the UK political environment and operation of Government.
• Expertise in public policy, ideally in issues relating to health equity or social justice. 

Benefits 

• Contributory pension
• Annual health and wellbeing personal allowance
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and parental leave pay accessible without length of service requirements.
• Health and wellbeing programme that offers optional free yearly health check-ups.
• Support for healthy eating via fruit bowls and onsite lunch facilities. 
• Agile working, flexible hours, and supportive IT kit. 
• Shower facilities and bike lock area. 
• Generous annual leave (27 days + bank holidays)
• Subsidies for glasses
• Employee Assistance Programme

Executive Assistant to the Operations Director, Head of Legal & Risk and the Head of Internal Audit

Are you an experienced Executive Assistant looking for an opportunity to work for a Christian humanitarian and development charity witha heart for seeing an end to extreme poverty? Do you have proven experience of providing EA support at Director level in a demanding environment? Then this may be the perfect opportunity for you!

As Executive Assistant you will provide strategic administrative support to Tearfund's Operations Director to enable them to operate effectively and meet the global objectives of Tearfund. This role also supports the Head of Internal Audit and the Head of Legal & Risk with timely and proactive administration of confidential and sensitive information. You will need to be able to work across different cultures, functions and time zones, being flexible and creative.

This role requires:

• Excellent organisational and administrative skills 
• A natural relationship builder with exceptional communication and intercultural skills
• The ability to prioritise and work under pressure with high attention to detail
• Proactivity and ability to coordinate across multiple tasks simultaneously
• Ability to work with confidential and sensitive information
• Competency in travel planning
• Experience of Project Management
• Experience of managing the administration of organisational policies

All applicants must be committed to Tearfund's Christian beliefs.

We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities and those from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds (in our UK workforce) as these groups are currently under-represented at Tearfund.

Hybrid working: This role is eligible for hybrid working and you will be required to work from the Teddington Tearfund office and from your home by agreement with the line manager.

Please note: This is a Full time permanent role - with some flexibility over the working hours/days.

The recruitment process will include specific checks related to safeguarding. In addition, personal identification information will be submitted against a Watchlist database to check against criminal convictions as a counter-terror measure.

Grade 4 Salary £37,160 per annum

Interviews will be scheduled for 10th and 11th September. 

We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities and those from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds (in our UK workforce) as these groups are currently under-represented at Tearfund.

Applicants must be committed to Tearfund's Christian beliefs

Help us achieve our vision that fewer people die by suicide.

We're looking for an experienced and commercially minded finance leader to join Samaritans as our Head of Financial Planning & Analysis. This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in supporting strategic decision-making across the organisation, leading financial planning, forecasting and reporting, while helping ensure we can continue delivering our life-saving work.

Reporting to the Executive Director of Corporate Services and working closely with senior leaders across the charity, you'll provide expert financial insight, lead a high-performing team, and drive innovation and continuous improvement across our finance function.

Contract terms:

• £75,000 (FTE) per annum, plus benefits
• Fixed Term Contract (12 months)
• 35 hours per week (full time)
• We are passionate about flexible working, talk to us about your preferences
• Hybrid, linked to our Ewell (Surrey) office
• We value meeting in person and working collaboratively. Finance team members are encouraged work from the office one day per week.
• 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (pro-rata)

What you'll be doing:

As Head of Financial Planning & Analysis, you'll lead our FP&A team and oversee the organisation's financial planning cycle, management reporting, forecasting and financial modelling activities. You'll be a trusted adviser to senior stakeholders, providing commercial insight and helping leaders make informed decisions that support our strategic objectives.

You'll also be a member of the Senior Leadership Group, contributing to organisational planning and helping shape the future direction of the finance function. Alongside your strategic responsibilities, you'll oversee both the Management Accounts and Accounts Payable & Receivable functions, ensuring robust financial reporting, controls and processes are in place.

Key responsibilities

• Leading the organisation's budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes.
• Providing strategic financial insight and partnering with senior leaders to support decision-making.
• Delivering financial modelling, scenario analysis and business case support for key projects and initiatives.
• Overseeing management reporting and ensuring accurate, timely financial information across the organisation.
• Leading and developing a high-performing finance team, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Driving financial capability, commercial awareness and strong financial management across the business.
• Supporting Board, Finance Committee and senior leadership reporting through clear, insightful analysis.
• Ensuring robust financial controls, processes and systems that support organisational effectiveness.

What you’ll bring:

Essential

• A professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent) with significant post-qualification experience.
• Extensive experience across financial planning and analysis, including budgeting, forecasting, management reporting and financial modelling.
• Proven experience leading organisation-wide budget-setting and financial planning processes.
• Strong leadership skills with experience developing and motivating high-performing teams.
• The ability to engage, influence and challenge senior stakeholders through clear, evidence-based financial insight.
• Excellent analytical and commercial awareness, with confidence interpreting complex financial data and translating it into meaningful recommendations.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience using financial planning and reporting systems.
• Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work effectively across a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable

• Experience within the charity or not-for-profit sector
• Knowledge of VAT, Corporation Tax, procurement or project management

For full details, please see the Job Description and Person Specification

Why Samaritans?

At Samaritans, you’ll join a values-led organisation with a powerful mission. You’ll be part of a collaborative and supportive team where your voice matters, your expertise makes a difference, and your work helps save lives.

We offer flexible hybrid working, great benefits, and the chance to make a tangible difference in suicide prevention across the UK and Ireland. To find out more about Samaritans, please read our recruitment brochure.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the people we support and who support us. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and walks of life. We are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels seen, heard and supported, at all levels of the organisation.

Apply now

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love for you to apply. You will be asked to answer some short application questions and to upload your CV and cover letter addressing key points in the job description. 

If you require adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know.

Applications close: midnight on 1st September 2026

1st stage interviews (online): w/c 14th September

2nd stage interviews (in person): tbc

At Samaritans, human connection is at the heart of everything we do. 

We do not use AI at any stage during the selection process. Your application will always be carefully reviewed by the recruiting manager or a member of the Talent Attraction Team. 

We kindly ask that you avoid using AI tools to generate your application or interview answers. We want to hear your own ideas, insights, and writing style so your unique strengths can shine through. We recognise that some candidates may use assistive technology or tools to help with accessibility, structure or grammar.   

Hours: Full-time

Pay: Up to £52,890 GBP gross per annual (dependent on experience)

Duration: Permanent

Location: UK-Med Office, Manchester, UK with hybrid working (approximately 30% on-site)

Do you have the expertise to ensure strong financial systems, compliance, and controls in a growing humanitarian organisation?

UK-Med is a frontline medical aid charity. Born of the NHS, we’ve been working for over 30 years towards a world where everyone has the healthcare they need when crises or disasters hit.

As UK-Med continues to expand its global reach and strengthen its international operations, we are investing in the financial leadership that underpins our humanitarian impact. In this context, the new Head of Finance (International) will play a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity, effectiveness, and resilience of UK-Med’s global financial management.

You’ll oversee financial governance, compliance, and grant management across our international programmes, ensuring that systems and reporting are robust, efficient, and aligned with donor and statutory requirements. Based in the UK, you’ll work closely with colleagues across Finance, Operations, and Programmes to strengthen financial controls, manage risk, and support sound decision-making that enables UK-Med to respond rapidly and effectively to humanitarian crises around the world.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives on supporting operational delivery, ensuring high-quality financial reporting, and strengthening systems. You’ll bring together technical excellence and strong leadership skills, working collaboratively and effectively in a complex, fast-changing environment. Your contribution will directly enable UK-Med to respond rapidly to emergencies and make a tangible impact on people affected by crises.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits, a collaborative and supportive working environment, and the opportunity to make a real difference through humanitarian work.

UK-Med is a growing and ambitious organisation with a passionate team of staff, members, and volunteers. This is a truly exciting opportunity to shape the future of our financial function and support our mission to provide healthcare in emergencies worldwide.

How to apply

We strongly recommend that you read the Candidate Information Pack - Head of Finance (International) - August 2026 before applying for this role.

To apply, please submit a current CV and a supporting letter (2 pages) through our online jobs portal.

Please apply below, as soon as possible and no later than Monday 24th of August 2026.

We welcome applications from candidates based in the UK and internationally. While being based in the UK would be advantageous due to the role’s close collaboration with UK-Med’s Manchester-based teams, it is not an essential requirement, and internationally based candidates will be fully considered.

UK-Med is committed to safeguarding of our personnel and beneficiaries and has a zero-tolerance approach to sexual exploitation and abuse. We conduct thorough vetting before any appointment is confirmed.

UK-Med is committed to the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where employees feel respected and supported to be able to fulfill their potential.

Head of Health Information and Support

Permanent

Salary: £55,000 - £60,000 per annum, plus benefits

London N1

Full time – 37.5 hours a week 

We're a hybrid working employer, meaning you're required to come into the office on average 2-3 days per week, currently Tuesday and Wednesday or Thursday

Closing date: 11.59pm, Mon 31 August 2026

First Interviews: 9/10/11 September 2026

Second interviews: 22/23 September 2026

An exciting opportunity for a Head of Health Information and Support has arisen at World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF).

World Cancer Research Fund champions the latest and most authoritative scientific research from around the world on cancer prevention and survival through diet, weight and physical activity, so that we can empower people to make informed lifestyle choices to reduce their cancer risk.

We are seeking an inspiring, strategic and collaborative leader to shape and deliver WCRF’s Health Information and Support strategy across three core audiences: the general public, health professionals and cancer survivors. The team turns WCRF’s scientific evidence on cancer prevention and survival into practical, accessible information, training and support based on our Cancer Prevention Recommendations. The postholder will lead and develop the team, ensuring its work is innovative, evidence-based, high quality and demonstrably effective.

Working across Science, Policy, Fundraising, Communications and Engagement, you will create new ways to share our health information, improve existing resources and services, and build impactful partnerships. You will ensure that public and patient insight shapes our work from cancer prevention to survivorship, strengthen programmes for health professionals and make effective use of digital channels. Responsibilities include contributing to our Medical Education programme, participating in working and steering groups and speaking at national conferences, networking at events, engaging corporate audiences and acting as a spokesperson in broadcast and print media. Ultimately, you will help establish WCRF as the go-to source of information and support on the links between cancer, nutrition and lifestyle.

The successful candidate will have a strong track record of implementing strategy, developing business and operational plans, and leading high-performing teams. 

You will bring substantial experience in areas such as health information or education, working with healthcare professionals, UK health policy, health science or research, or marketing health information and services. You will be confident in measuring impact, managing budgets and using data to improve performance, with strong knowledge of non-communicable diseases and issues including nutrition, obesity, diet and physical activity. An excellent communicator and relationship-builder, you will be proactive, creative and results-focused, able to operate at senior management level and open to using digital, AI and other emerging tools to improve effectiveness and efficiency.

Application Details:

If you are interested in this role and feel you possess the necessary requirements, please submit a current CV and covering letter (maximum 2 pages) by the closing date. You must have current right to work in the UK.

Please note: Your cover letter should highlight how your skills and experience will benefit WCRF and equip you for the role.
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are only able to provide feedback to shortlisted candidates. If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. 

Are you an experienced operational leader who thrives on making organisations run brilliantly behind the scenes?

Southwark Charities is entering an exciting new chapter. With a £100m property portfolio, a growing grant programme and the development of 64 new almshouses, we're looking for an exceptional Head of Resources to lead the systems and processes that keep our charity strong.

Reporting to the CEO, you'll oversee finance, HR, IT, governance, property compliance, contracts and organisational systems, ensuring the charity operates efficiently, remains compliant and is well positioned for future growth. You'll work in a small, dedicated team while working closely with colleagues to deliver outstanding services for older people across Southwark.

This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys improving processes, managing change and finding practical solutions. You'll bring experience in operations, finance or corporate services, excellent organisational skills and the confidence to work across multiple disciplines.

If you're looking for a varied senior role where your expertise will have a direct impact on people's lives and the future of a respected historic charity, we'd love to hear from you.

The National Biodiversity Network Trust is the UK charity dedicated to making biodiversity data accessble and useful. We co-ordinate the National Biodiversity Network, develop the NBN Atlas, support iNaturalistUK and are developing the NBN Record Manager. Our work connects biological recording, digital infrastructure and better decisions for nature across the UK. 

Our vision is Nature thriving everywhere, in all its diversity,.Our mission is Making data work for nature. 

This is a senior and pivotal role. The Head of Finance & Operations is the Chief Executive Officer's trusted strategic and operational partner on finance, governance, people systems, risk and organisational operations. They provide calm judgement, clear information, early warning and reliable follow-through. The role will turn strategy into affordable and deliverable plans, protect the Trust's financial resilience, and ensure that its core systems and controls enable colleagues to do their best work. They will combine strategic leadership with a willingness to enage in the practical detail when needed. 

More details, including on how to apply and a Recruitment FAQ, are available on our website. 

About Hope for the Young

Hope for the Young removes the obstacles to young refugees and sanctuary-seekers’ education and wellbeing through mentoring, advocacy, and financial support.

The Mentoring Programme supports young refugees and sanctuary-seekers aged 16-25 by matching them with trained volunteer mentors who provide weekly one-to-one support tailored to the young people's needs. Mentors help with teaching English, enrolment advice, study skills, confidence and trust building, and provide emotional and practical support that helps young people access new services, adapt and settle into their communities.

The Grants and Advocacy Programme supports young people who, due to their immigration status, have no access to student finance or other financial support to enable them to go to college or university. We provide small grants to pay for tuition fees, living allowances and travel expenses, alongside tailored advocacy support to enable young refugees and sanctuary-seekers to access education in the UK.

About this role

Hope for the Young is looking for an experienced and proactive Head of Finance and Operations to lead the smooth running of our finance, systems, HR and office functions. This is a hands-on role at the heart of a small, ambitious charity, giving you the opportunity to shape how we operate as we grow our support for young refugees and sanctuary-seekers across London.

You will oversee financial management and reporting, ensuring accurate records, robust controls and clear budgeting and forecasting to support the charity's long-term sustainability. You will also lead on our Salesforce system and wider data practices, manage day-to-day office and operational matters, and take responsibility for HR across the organisation. You will also line-manage our Finance and Administration Officer.

This is a varied and rewarding role for someone who enjoys working across multiple areas of responsibility and thrives in a small team environment. Working closely with the CEO and Head of Programmes, you will play a central role in ensuring Hope for the Young has the systems, processes and people in place to deliver our mission effectively, efficiently and sustainably, helping us support more young people seeking safety to build safe, hopeful futures.

We offer a flexible and hybrid working environment, however you will be expected to come to our office in Brixton for a minimum of 1 day per week (on a Wednesday, which is our office team day).

Key responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

· Lead and oversee the charity's financial management, ensuring robust controls, effective processes and compliance with financial policies and procedures.

· Lead budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management and financial planning in collaboration with the CEO and Head of Programmes to support organisational sustainability.

· Oversee the delivery of day-to-day finance operations, including bookkeeping, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, and financial record-keeping, delivered by the Finance and Administration Officer, providing guidance, training, and support as necessary.

· Monitor income, expenditure, reserves and restricted and unrestricted funds, ensuring accurate financial reporting and effective resource management.

· Prepare and present monthly management accounts, financial reports and analysis to support decision-making by the CEO and Board.

· Maintain and strengthen financial controls, delegated authority arrangements and audit processes to ensure strong financial governance.

Leadership, Governance and Organisational Management

· Lead organisational operational planning and risk management, ensuring systems, processes and resources align with and support delivery of the strategic plan

· Sit as a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), contributing to organisational strategy, cross-team planning and key decision-making alongside the CEO and Head of Programmes.

· Maintain the organisational risk register, working with the CEO and Board to identify and mitigate strategic and operational risks.

· Own the organisation’s policy framework, maintaining the policy register and ensuring the timely revision, review and compliance of all policies.

IT and Office Management

· Lead the development, administration and optimisation of Salesforce, other fundraising platforms and related system integrations to support fundraising, donor engagement and programme delivery, liaising closely with the Salesforce consultant to implement system enhancements and resolve issues.

· Drive the continuous improvement of Salesforce systems, processes and data management practices, ensuring high standards of data quality, security and operational efficiency.

· Oversee the IT infrastructure, managing the procurement and ongoing maintenance of IT hardware, systems and software with support from the external IT provider.

· Provide training, guidance and user support on Salesforce, Sharepoint, and all related platforms to maximise staff capability and system adoption.

· Ensure a fully functioning office base which enables Hope for the Young to deliver its operational activities in the most efficient and effective manner.

Human Resource Management

· Lead and oversee HR operations, including the recruitment, onboarding and retention of staff and volunteers

· Oversee employee lifecycle processes, including inductions, appraisals, performance reviews and professional development planning

· Ensure compliance with employment legislation and organisational policies through effective management and administration of contracts, HR records, employee benefits and people processes

· Lead on team wellbeing, fostering a supportive, inclusive, and resilient working culture across the team

The job description as described will be reviewed on a regular basis to respond to any changing needs of the post.

Benefits

• 25 days' annual leave (pro rata), excluding bank holidays, plus additional time off over the Christmas period

• Flexible/hybrid working arrangements

• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – a confidential counselling/support helpline

• Regular development opportunities to support professional development

• Quarterly wellbeing afternoons – group outings or activities to relax and unwind

Further Information

• You must have the right to work in the UK to apply for this job.

• You must adhere to Hope for the Young’s Equal Opportunities Policy at all times.

• Your employment at Hope for the Young is subject to two satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check.

• There is a 3-month probation period for this role.

To Apply

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those with lived experience of forced migration. If you think you have the skills and experience to be our new Head of Finance and Operations, we would love to hear from you.

We understand that AI can be a helpful tool when writing job applications. However, our advice is to not over-rely on AI and ensure your application is a true reflection of you and your voice. We can often tell when AI has been over-relied on and, in many cases, this is not giving applicants the best chance of success.

To submit your application you will need to send your CV and supporting letter, outlining how you meet the person specification for this post and explaining why you would like to work for Hope for the Young.The deadline to apply is 9am Thursday 3rd September. Interviews will take place on 10th and 11th September. If successful, you will be invited to a second interview the following week.  

ABOUT CHEFS IN SCHOOLS

Chefs in Schools exists to improve children’s health and futures through better school food and meaningful food education.

We work alongside schools and catering teams to transform what children eat every day, particularly in communities facing the greatest barriers to good health. We combine practical support, training, operational expertise and sector influence to help schools serve fresh, nutritious food that children want to eat.

We’re backed by some of the biggest names in food and are ambitious about both impact and scale. We want every child to have access to excellent school food and a real food education, regardless of background.

We are a values-led organisation - bold, honest, collaborative, innovative and focused on solutions.

WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS

You will lead the delivery of Chefs in Schools External Affairs function, ultimately ensuring there is widespread recognition that poor quality school food is unacceptable. Through integrated media, digital and advocacy work, you’ll ensure quality school food is viewed as a vital tool for healthy development and food literacy. 

You will turn strategic direction into coordinated delivery, leading a multidisciplinary team that increases our influence, strengthens our reputation and helps achieve meaningful improvements in school food.

Working closely with External Affairs colleagues and Chief Executive, you will ensure our public profile, policy influence and media work reinforce one another, while creating the management capacity required for a growing organisation. This builds on the new functional structure where media and content, policy and campaigns, and the School Food Review programme all sit within External Affairs.

We want Chefs in Schools to become the most trusted and recognisable voice in the conversation around school food and food literacy. This role will play a central part in building that influence and recognition.

We are looking for somebody who understands that influence is built through consistency, credibility, creativity and cultural relevance as much as through formal communications activity alone. 

WHAT YOU’LL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR

Leadership

• Lead the day-to-day operation of the External Affairs team.

• Translate organisational strategy into clear plans and objectives.

• Ensure media, content creation, campaigns, policy and coalition activity reinforce one another.

• Set priorities and allocate resources across competing work.

• Develop team capability through coaching, support and performance management.

• Contribute to organisational strategy and annual planning.

• Advise on reputational opportunities and risks.

• Ensure innovation is embedded at the heart of our work and approach.

• Deputise at SLT level where appropriate.

• Represent the organisation externally.

• Build a collaborative, ambitious, solutions-focused culture.

Operational planning

• Develop and oversee the annual External Affairs plan in line with strategy.

• Coordinate campaign calendars, policy priorities, publications and media moments.

• Ensure external activity supports fundraising, programmes and partnerships.

• Monitor delivery against KPIs and adjust plans where required.

Campaigns and public engagement

• Provide strategic oversight of policy development and campaigning.

• Challenge and refine policy recommendations before publication.

• Ensure campaigns are evidence-led and aligned with organisational strategy.

• Support relationships with government, sector leaders and coalition partners.

• Build strong relationships with media, MPs, councillors and key stakeholders.

Media & communications

• Oversee media strategy and organisational messaging.

• Ensure consistency across press, social media, website, publications and events.

• Identify media moments and hard hitting stories that will hit the headlines. 

• Sign off major messaging and communications.

• Lead communications planning around major announcements or crises.

School Food Review 

• Provide strategic oversight of the School Food Review programme.

• Ensure coalition work complements Chefs in Schools wider influencing strategy.

• Support senior relationships with coalition partners and funders.

• Remove barriers to delivery for the Programme Manager.

Budget & governance

• Manage the External Affairs budget.

• Ensure safeguarding, risk management and governance requirements are met.

• Oversee procurement of agencies and consultants.

ABOUT YOU

Essential experience and skills

• Significant senior leadership experience across media relations, campaigns, policy or public affairs.

• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams.

• Strong operational planning skills.

• Excellent political judgement.

• Experience influencing senior stakeholders.

• Outstanding written and verbal communication.

• Strong project and budget management.

• Comfortable balancing long-term strategy with fast-paced reactive work.

• Strong understanding of the UK media landscape and digital channels. 

• Excellent communication skills – written, verbal and visual. 

• Experience of working with MPs and other key stakeholders.

• Strong alignment with the mission and values of Chefs in Schools.

Desirable

• Education, food systems or public health experience.

• Coalition leadership.

• Charity senior management.

• Experience working with ministers, journalists and on national campaigns.

OUR COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION

We know that strong candidates may not meet every single requirement listed in this job description.

If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution to our mission, we would encourage you to apply.

We are committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive organisation where people from different backgrounds, experiences and communities can thrive.

Head of Finance and Operations

Salary: £50,000 – £54,000 per annum (depending on skills and experience)

Location: Manchester (Hybrid working with regular office attendance: 2 days a week)

Contract: Permanent, Full Time

About CLES

CLES is an independent economics think tank and charity dedicated to tackling the UK’s most pressing economic challenges. For over 40 years, we have collaborated with local governments, the NHS, national government, universities, and communities to create impactful, practical solutions. Our expertise in community wealth building has gained international recognition, and we embody our progressive ethos by offering a four-day full-pay working week. At CLES, we foster a deeply collaborative and flexible environment where strong relationships are valued, reflected in our regular social activities and annual residential gatherings.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Head of Finance and Operations who will play a crucial role in steering our financial and operational functions. Working closely with our senior management team, you will combine strategic insights with hands-on delivery, ensuring the efficient management of our financial systems, governance, and HR processes. You will be supported by a dedicated Finance and Office Administrator, allowing you to focus on higher-level financial oversight and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage day-to-day finances including cash flow, financial controls, and oversight of bookkeeping tasks.
• Prepare and present quarterly and annual management accounts, VAT returns, and payroll submissions.
• Lead the administration of governance, working closely with the board of trustees on compliance and regulatory filings.
• Oversee daily office operations, including IT infrastructure and health and safety.
• Administer HR processes such as recruitment, onboarding, and the management of employee records.

About You:

• You possess a recognised accounting qualification (ideally ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or AAT Level 4, with substantial senior-level charity finance experience.
• Demonstrated experience in financial management, including preparation of management accounts and familiarity with accounting software such as Sage.
• Strong understanding of governance and compliance within a charity context, alongside experience in HR administration.
• Excellent organisational skills and a proactive, solutions-focused approach to work.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, building trust and collaboration.

Our Offer to You:

• A four-day working week with full pay for a 30-hour commitment.
• Flexible and hybrid working options, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• Generous holiday entitlement, starting at 20 days (the equivalent of 5 full weeks off) and rising to 24 days (6 weeks) with service, plus additional leave for birthdays and Christmas.
• A robust pension scheme with an employer contribution starting at 6% and increasing with tenure.
• A supportive learning and development culture, with a dedicated budget for professional growth and annual team retreats.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

CLES is committed to fostering an inclusive workspace and welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds. We actively encourage candidates from all sections of the community to apply.

How to Apply

Click apply and you will be redirected to our careers page which has instructions on how to submit your application.

Please note, we are operating a rolling recruitment process, so early applications are encouraged. Initial application cutoff is Monday, 24th of August 2026 at 9:00am. Interviews are scheduled for Wednesday, 2nd of September 2026. If we do not fill the position, the advert will remain open for ongoing applications.

We look forward to welcoming you to our team at CLES!

Head of Business and Operations at TreeHouse School

Location: TreeHouse School, Woodside Ave, N10 3JA

Salary: £59,000 to £63,000 per annum (depending on skills and experience)

Start date: January 2027 (scope to start earlier)

About TreeHouse School:

TreeHouse School, part of Ambitious about Autism, is an Ofsted Outstanding specialist school supporting children and young people aged 4–19 with autism and complex learning needs. We are committed to providing an exceptional learning environment where every pupil can thrive and achieve their full potential.

The Opportunity

We are looking for an experienced and dynamic Head of Business & Operations to join our Senior Leadership Team.

This is a unique opportunity to play a central role in the leadership of the school, ensuring our operational services enable outstanding education and the very best outcomes for our pupils.

Reporting directly to the Headteacher, you will provide strategic leadership across the school's business functions, leading operational teams and ensuring the effective delivery of services that support pupils, staff and families.

Your areas of responsibility will include:

• Finance – leading budget planning, financial monitoring, resource allocation, and financial oversight to ensure value for money and support school priorities.
• Property & Facilities – leading the school's estate, health & safety, compliance, and facilities management, ensuring a safe and effective learning environment.
• Operations & Administration – leading the school's operational support functions, including the Office Manager, reception/front desk, senior administration and wider operations team, ensuring effective systems, processes and service delivery.
• HR & Employee Relations – working alongside Ambitious about Autism's central People Team to support recruitment, employee relations, workforce planning, and staff development whilst providing advice and support to managers.
• Strategic Projects – driving operational improvements, developing systems, and supporting the future growth and development of the school.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you'll contribute to the strategic direction of the school while leading and developing high-performing operational teams.

Every operational decision ultimately supports our pupils. We are looking for a leader who shares our commitment to enabling autistic children and young people to thrive and achieve their full potential.

What We Are Looking For:

We are looking for somebody who:

• Has strong financial and operational leadership experience.
• Is a strategic and commercially minded leader who can balance operational excellence with long-term planning.
• Is confident leading, motivating and developing teams.
• Can make difficult decisions and have challenging conversations with empathy and professionalism.
• Is emotionally intelligent, approachable, and resilient.
• Remains calm under pressure and thinks clearly when faced with unexpected challenges.
• Enjoys improving systems, solving problems, and making a genuine impact.
• Shares our commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes for autistic children and young people.

Working in a specialist autism school means you'll be part of a fast-paced, varied and incredibly rewarding environment. The role requires someone who is adaptable, solutions-focused, and comfortable leading in a setting where operational challenges can arise unexpectedly.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of an Ofsted Outstanding specialist autism school.
• Join an ambitious, collaborative and values driven leadership team.
• Play a key role in shaping the future of one of the UK's leading specialist education settings.
• Access professional development opportunities through Ambitious about Autism.
• Make a tangible difference to the lives and outcomes of autistic children and young people.

Recruitment Process

The selection process will include a formal interview and a range of work related exercises designed to assess leadership, strategic thinking, and operational expertise.

Closing date for the role: Wednesday 2nd of September at 12am

Shortlisting for the role: Thursday 3rd of September

Outcome of your application: Thursday 3rd/Friday 4th of September

Interview dates: Tuesday 8th and Wednesday 9th of September

Ambitious About Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious About Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search may be carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The safeguarding responsibilities of the post are as per the job description and person specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities, certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.