Head of operations jobs

If you’re passionate about supporting local people, highly organised and have a keen eye for detail, then you might be the person we’re looking for!

St Paul’s Centre is preparing for an exciting adventure, and we need a new Operations Administrator to help take us to the next level.

St Paul’s Centre is a well-established local charity based in the centre of Crewe. Since 1986 it has provided a range of services focused on meeting local practical need. It is a growing charity inspired by its Christian beliefs and driven by a passion to help and support people in their times of hardship.

St Paul’s Centre is currently running 8 different projects in the local community and as a charity we’re committed to keeping things sustainable so that our community projects can continue to have an impact for years to come.

The main function of the job is to support our Head of Operations and Retail in the administering of logistics, health and safety, warehousing and record keeping, all whilst ensuring a high level of efficiency and productivity. The post-holder will be making a key contribution to the sustainability of St Paul’s Centre, ensuring that we continue to support the local community.

Your main role is to be a senior member of the PIRC team, holding responsibility for overseeing PIRC’s strategic direction and vision, programme delivery, representing the organisation at internal and external events, and working with the Head of Operations to ensure the financial health of the organisation.

Title: Head of Programmes

Contract: Permanent

Location: Hybrid - based at PIRC offices in Machynlleth, as well as your home address, with travel when necessary.

Salary: £42-45,000 (£33-36,000 pro rata). This is the base rate for our socially-just pay policy, which can provide additional salary based on personal need.

Hours: 32 hours over 4 days, usually between Monday to Thursday, with 1:1  toil system (hours or days earned for working beyond your set hours)

Job-sharing: Unfortunately applications for job-sharing this role cannot be considered.

Holiday: 28 days (22.5 days pro rata, including bank holidays) 

Additional Leave: We operate a two-week (paid) winter closure period. This is non-contractual leave and it does not count  towards your annual leave allowance. Closure period dates are reviewed and confirmed annually.

Benefits: NEST Pension 3% employer contribution, External Mentor, Annual Training & Development Budget, Free eye test & contribution to glasses.

Deadline to apply: 9:00am, 14th July 2025.

Interviews: We’ll carry out remote interviews online, on 22nd and 23rd July 2025.

Preferred start: October 2025, negotiable.

This role requires that you are resident and have the right to work in the UK.

PIRC works to support our movements—for equality, anti-oppression, and climate justice—to tell better stories for a just world: 

• We connect diverse groups, in participatory spaces, to share knowledge, develop strategies and strengthen movements;
• We carry out strategic research to support this work;
• And we create and openly share resources and tools for developing better strategy and communications. 

For us, this work is not just about communication: our practices must reflect and strengthen the stories we tell, and the values that underpin them. Our approach is strongly rooted in the social sciences, and is led by principles of:

• liberation
• connection
• participation
• creativity

We advocate an approach that can be used by grassroots groups with limited financial resources, who often find themselves excluded by mainstream strategic communications work.

The Role:

Strategic Leadership

• With the Head of Operations, co-lead, as part of a collaborative process with the full staff team, the development and review of the operational strategy and budget
• Plan and facilitate Programme Team Meetings
• Oversee and input into funding applications and reports, including ensuring programme team documents are kept up to date for fundraising 
• Working with the fundraiser to identify funding opportunities and attend key funder meetings 
• Input into Board development, including regular reports at Board meetings
• Oversee and drive annual, quarterly and monthly planning
• Play an active role in the restructure and its evaluation and review, including development of this role

Team Leadership & People (HR) Management:

• Work closely with delivery staff to set delivery project plans
• Check in regularly with individual Delivery Team members (such as Workshops Lead, Curriculum Lead, Community Lead and Research Lead)
•  Support staff to take ownership of and drive forward their areas of work and participate in the overall running of PIRC
• Support staff development 
• Liaise with PIRC Board ‘Delivery SubGroup’

Programme Delivery

• Ensuring programme delivery is aligned with PIRC’s strategy and values
• Taking an active role in programme delivery alongside Delivery Team members

Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaising with funders, maintaining existing relationships and building new ones
• Building and maintaining relationships across PIRC’s movement ecosystem

Shine On is stepping into a new chapter with fresh energy, a vibrant identity, and an ambition to reach many more people with more services. Since the appointment of its first CEO last year, the charity has undergone a revitalisation aimed at better meeting the needs of older people, primarily in the East of Newcastle upon Tyne.

We are now looking to recruit for the newly created post of Head of Operations, to manage all aspects of our projects and services, including our community launderette. They will also support and deputise for the CEO, where required.

Our new Head of Operations will be energetic, experienced in managing budgets, services, staff, and volunteers. Shine On is a small charity, so they will be flexible and willing to ‘pitch in’ where needed.

Please read the job description and person specification carefully, which also outlines how to apply.

We are now seeking a strong project manager with great people skills and an eye for detail to join as our Head of Operations. Join The Fore, the UK’s only venture philanthropy fund dedicated to backing the best small charities, and play a key role in achieving our goal of getting the most innovative solutions from grassroots to nationwide impact.

Reporting into the Director of Operations, you will lead the delivery of The Fore’s grant rounds, which are the core engine of our impact. You’ll  oversee our Programme Team and pool of Strategic Applicant Consultants (SACs) and will make sure the strongest proposals reach our  funding panels. The role is a key part in achieving our goal of getting the most innovative solutions from grassroots to nationwide impact.

You’ll drive our workshops and peer learning programme, enabling small charities to develop the skills and networks to take their solutions to  the next level. You will also take forward newer strategic initiatives, including our scale-up funding rounds and the launch of high-profile charity showcases that connect our most impactful organisations with government, funders and policy influencers.

Alongside this, you’ll own our impact and learning work, ensuring we capture and communicate the difference our work makes. You’ll work  closely with senior colleagues and be supported by the small but mighty Programme Team (a Programme Officer and Programme Assistant)  who you will also be line managing.

Key responsibilities

• Grant-making: Lead the end-to-end delivery of our core funding and scale-up programmes, from shaping programme design to ensuring the strongest applications reach our funding panels. You’ll keep the process running smoothly, support and steer our SACs, and maintain a  strong focus on quality and impact. This includes oversight of our Salesforce grants system, working with specialised contractors to ensure it  supports effective delivery.
• Strategic Applicant Consultants (SACs): Lead the recruitment, training, support and retention of our SAC pool, making sure they’re equipped,  motivated and connected. You’ll foster a strong sense of community and shared purpose across this talented group.
• Impact and monitoring: Lead The Fore’s impact and monitoring work, including producing our annual impact report and sector insights, and  commissioning external contractors for deeper analysis when needed. You’ll also ensure our portfolio is on track to deliver its plans, and support  organisations to adapt and thrive when challenges arise.
• Charity showcases: Spearhead our new high-profile showcase events, connecting outstanding small charities with policymakers, funders and  influencers.
• Peer learning and workshops: Maintain strategic oversight of our learning events for our portfolio, including peer-to-peer sessions and  workshops designed to build the skills and knowledge small charities need to maximise their impact.
• Funder engagement: Collaborate with the Partnerships Team to align programmes with funder interests and help build strong, enduring relationships.
• External representation: Represent The Fore by speaking at events, building relationships, and engaging with funders, networks, and sector  partners.
• Line management of Programme Team members – currently consists of the Programme Officer and Programme Assistant.

This is a broad and evolving role with plenty of scope to shape new initiatives and strengthen existing systems as the organisation grows.

Candidate profile
Skills and experience:

• 7+ years of professional experience in the business, public or third sector
• Strong project or programme management track record, with the ability to juggle multiple workstreams and deadlines
• Experience managing volunteers and/or direct reports
• Skilled at engaging a wide range of stakeholders and adapting communication style as needed
• Experience working in or with small charities or social enterprises is a bonus, but not essential. We’re looking for transferable skills and a clear  commitment to social impact

Attributes and mindset:

• Meticulously organised and confident managing complex logistics and timelines
• Excellent attention to detail, especially when coordinating multiple inputs and deliverables
• A clear, persuasive communicator and motivated people manager, able to bring others with you, maintain momentum, and foster collaboration
• Solutions-focused, curious, and energised by learning and problem-solving
• Comfortable in a small, fast-moving team and excited by the chance to take real ownership

Location: Vox Studios, 1–45 Durham Street, London, SE11 5JH (hybrid working, working from home on Wednesdays and Fridays)
Contract and salary: £50,000 (if full time). We’re ideally looking for someone able to work full time but would consider 3.5 days+ per week for  the right candidate. However, the role does require you to be in our London office three days a week.
Start: As soon as possible from August 2025

Deadline for applications: Monday 14 July, 9am.

Westway Trust is seeking a dedicated Head of Operations with a minimum of 5 years’ senior leadership or operational management experience in a multi-disciplinary organisation, ideally within a community, charitable, social enterprise or values-led setting.

In this newly created role, you will act as a key advisor, reporting directly into the CEO, and will have responsibility of key areas of the Trust’s operational functions, ensuring the smooth and effective running and delivery of services. You will directly manage the leads of HR, Learning, Communications & Marketing, and Community Engagement, supporting them to deliver high-quality work and develop professionally.

If you are a values-led operational leader who is committed to community transformation and organisational excellence, and thrives on steering strategic decisions, this role is for you! 

Key responsibilities of the role include but not limited to:

• Oversight and line management of the HR, Learning, Communications & Marketing, and Community Engagement functions of the Trust.
• Oversight of key projects essential to the delivery of the Horizon (strategic) Plan 2025-2028 as agreed with the CEO.
• Be a key part of the Executive Team, chaired by the CEO.
• Maintain an overview of all projects and programmes of activity, outputs and outcomes within the role and ensure reports are written and submitted on time.
• Provide day-to-day operational leadership across teams, driving high performance, alignment with values, and maintaining individual, personal & team wellbeing.
• Develop and implement planning processes and performance management tools to ensure effective delivery of goals.
• Develop, drive and maintain the data gathering and analysis for the Westway Trust, that enables the Social Impact Framework and to play a key role in the organisation’s progress towards creating a strong narrative in respect of achievement. 
• Attend People Committee Meetings and the Board as requested, and contribute to the preparation of meeting papers as necessary in line with agenda requirements. 
• Provide upward reporting and insight to the CEO including written briefings, performance dashboards, and recommendations.
• Attend internal and external meetings, including those that require representing the Trust publicly, in line with agreed strategies and perspectives.
• Monitor, update and ensure compliance with organisational policies and legal requirements (e.g. safeguarding, employment, health & safety, data protection) to build a positive work culture.
• Champion collaboration and integration across departments, ensuring consistent implementation of work priorities that align with community needs and objectives.
• Support a values-based culture that centres equity, sustainability, openness, courage, and integrity.
• Contribute to organisational development and support the process of communicating and managing change effectively at the Trust in line with agreed policies and frameworks.

Essential Experience, Skills and Attributes:

• Minimum 5 years’ senior leadership or operational management experience in a multi-disciplinary organisation, ideally within a community, charitable, social enterprise or values-led setting.
• Proven ability to lead, guide and motivate diverse teams and to support the professional growth of those who report to you as a line manager.
• Demonstrable experience of good practice approaches to conflict resolution, working in collaboration with others and encouraging honesty, transparency and open ways of working across teams that benefit the organisation’s effectiveness and efficiency.
• Excellent planning, organisation and performance management skills.
• Excellent writing and reporting skills, including the ability to summarise complex data and issues for decision-makers.
• Experience in researching, developing and managing departmental budgets.
• Ability to analyse information, and formulate practical and reasoned operational plans that can be easily understood and monitored.
• Strong interpersonal and emotional intelligence skills – able to offer both moral and professional support to teams.
• Experience of supporting organisational change, transition, or transformation programmes.
• Experience of embedding inclusive and equitable practices across teams.
• Demonstrable alignment with the Trust’s values and commitment to anti-racism and community power.

Desirable Experience, Skills and Attributes:

• Previous experience overseeing HR or education/community programmes is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with communications/marketing functions is a plus but not essential.
• Degree-level education together with a recognised professional qualification in any of the fields this role covers - or equivalent lived/professional experience – is highly desirable.

Benefits of working with us:

• Great location in the heart of Portobello, North Kensington
• Generous holiday entitlement of 25 days per year + statutory bank holidays
• Sick pay scheme
• Investor in People (IiP) employer
• Free gym membership at health club one minute walk from the office
• Pension scheme
• Life Assurance
• Season ticket / bicycle loan
• Free eye test voucher

The application deadline is  Sunday 13 July when applications will be reviewed and shortlisted for interview.  However, we reserve the right to close the application early.  An early application is strongly recommended.

We are working in partnership with Veterans Outreach Support (VOS), a well-known, award-winning, UK registered charity that supports those who have served our nation, in the Armed Forces and Merchant Navy, through the provision of welcoming and relaxed settings where UK veterans and family members can access welfare, wellbeing, and mental health support. VOS’s development has taken them well beyond these elements to a wide-ranging, person-centered one-stop shop that provides direct and holistic support.

VOS is now seeking a Head of Operations, who will directly support the Chief Executive by taking responsibility for the day-to-day operations of VOS, working in close cooperation with the Head of Care (Deputy CEO). In addition to managing the Operations Department, as well as overseeing business administration and people issues, the non-clinical, business-related contracts, the post-holder will be responsible for managing regulatory compliance, financial planning (with the VOS Finance Manager), and external relations, with delivery partners and other stakeholders, where they will also have representational duties, acting as lead for CRM implementation Health & Safety, and is the VOS Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Successful candidates must be able to demonstrate the following:

• Excellent business administration and management, with exceptional organisational skills. 
• Effective leadership skills, with a high level of emotional intelligence (EQ), with outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, especially listening skills, with the ability to build strong relationships at all levels. 
• Strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Competent in use of IT systems and social media, including video-conferencing and MS Office software.
• Ability to travel independently, across all VOS locations.

We are seeking a proactive, flexible and responsive leader with a strong team player work ethic, capable of working as part of a dynamic, high-tempo team, including with volunteers and other supporters and partners.

For more information, please contact Louise Portnall, Recruitment Consultant at Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

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

Location: Royal Maritime Hotel, Portsmouth / limited scope for homeworking/flexibility

Requires the ability to travel independently, across VOS locations, including the Isle of Wight (IOW)

Closing date: Thursday 10th July 2025 

Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by lunchtime on the 16th July prior to shortlist submission by EOD 

Interviews with VOS: w/c 21 July

Are you a compassionate and driven leader ready to make a life-changing impact?

Join Gilgal, a charity supporting women and children escaping domestic abuse. We are seeking a Head of Service and Operations to oversee day-to-day services and operations, ensuring safety, compassion, and excellence in everything we do.

Location: Birmingham & Remote 
Hours: 22.5 per week (Part time)
Contract Type: Permanent
Starting Salary: £42,000 pro rata
Application Deadline: Friday 18th July

Your mission

In this pivotal role, you’ll lead the delivery of trauma-informed, high-quality support at our Birmingham women’s refuge. You’ll empower frontline teams, manage essential operations, and drive continuous improvement, ensuring every woman and child receives the support they deserve.

You’ll also work closely with our CEO, deputising when required, and play a central role in implementing our mission and values.

What you’ll be doing

·Lead daily operations at our refuge with compassion and professionalism

·Manage and support staff and volunteers, fostering a high-performing team culture

·Oversee charity-wide operations: HR, finance, IT, facilities, and our Charity Shop

·Ensure compliance in safeguarding, health & safety, GDPR, and governance

·Collaborate with the CEO on strategic planning and service development

·Represent Gilgal with partners, funders, and in community settings

·Promote co-production and the voice of survivors in shaping our services

What you bring

Essential:

·Strong operational leadership experience in charity or social care

·Proven track record in team management and finance oversight

·Understanding of safeguarding, trauma-informed care, and data protection

·Emotional intelligence, resilience, and a commitment to women’s rights

·Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills

Desirable:

·Experience in a refuge or domestic abuse setting

·Familiarity with charity retail or income generation

·Knowledge of VAWG issues and policy in Birmingham or nationally

·Relevant qualifications in leadership, social care, or supported housing

Why Gilgal?

At Gilgal, our mission is to provide a safe, healing space where women and children can rebuild their lives. You’ll be part of a team that values compassion, excellence, and dignity. This is more than a job; it’s a purpose.

Special Conditions:
This post is open to women only under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010. The successful applicant will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check.

Ready to lead with purpose?

Apply today and be part of a mission that matters.

Please sypply your CV and cover letter. Applications close on Friday, 18th July. Short listing will take the following week, and interviews will be held week commencing 28th July.

Job Summary

Location : Requirement to attend our sites in Basildon, Harlow and Thurrock if required and to team meetings quarterly.

Type: Remote

Salary: £48,000.00 per annum

Hours :  37.5 hours per week

Term: Permanent

Main Responsibilities:

Leadership

1. As a member of the Operational Leadership Team and wider Senior Leadership Team, work collaboratively and take collective responsibility for the strategic management and leadership of the organisation.

2. Work closely with the CEO, Treasurer and Board of Trustees to facilitate good governance and risk management.

3. Manage, maintain and develop all financial systems and control; increasing their impact and quality, and implementing best practices in financial management.

4. To supervise finance assistants and ensure that they are adhering to financial code of practices.

Financial Management

1. Lead and manage all aspects of the financial cycle, including budgeting, forecasting, fixed asset management, reserves & designated fund management and financial reporting.

2. Work with HR & Payroll Officer to manage and retain oversight of the day to day financial operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, banking and general ledger maintenance, including the reconciliation of petty cash, credit cards and all bank accounts on a monthly basis reviewing and approving payment runs and payroll.

3. Work with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team to prepare the annual budgets and forecasts.

4. Lead and manage the provision of regular budget monitoring and reports to budget holders.

5. Assist with the budget preparation for funding bids. Manage, monitor and keep track of any grants, funding or commissioned income, working with relevant managers to provide relevant financial information for inclusion in monitoring reports.

6. Lead and manage the provision of quarterly financial reports to the Board and advise them on financial issues as appropriate

7. Provide insightful financial analysis and reporting to inform and support organisational management, development and decision[1]making, and funding applications across the organisation.

8. Work with the CEO to prepare medium term financial forecasts for the organisation to support strategic decision-making and delivery of strategic priorities.

9. Lead on the audit process and the preparation of year end accounts to trial balance including preparation of the audit file and the closing down of the accounts on our accounting management system to ensure that the organisation is compliant with legal requirements and good practice.

10. To work closely with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and designated Trustees to advise, review and cost the annual pay award.

11. To provide back-up and holiday cover for the processing of monthly payroll.

12. To work with and support the HR & Payroll Officer in providing payroll information and reconciling payroll monthly.

Governance and compliance

1. Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations and reporting requirements (e.g. Companies House, HMRC and the Charity Commission).

2. Attend Trustee Board meetings to report on financial matters, including the identification and management of financial risk, and provide any relevant reports.

3. To support the Trustees, SLT and line managers in managing our finances carefully and within our financial means, through provision of advice, guidance, support and training.

4. To be the main point of contact with external auditors.

5. To ensure that robust financial controls are in place, underpinned by appropriate financial policies and procedures and to ensure that they are adhered to and that the organisation is protected from fraud and error.

Closing date for applications : 21st July 2025

This role goes beyond traditional HR, and will help to deliver significant systemic change within ATLEU and, through sharing our learning, for survivors of trafficking across the advice and anti-trafficking workforces. The successful candidate will strengthen ATLEU’s organisational capacity to become a lived experience advice sector employer, integrate exceptional people management and ensure that every employee is equipped to thrive in their role.

In the coming months we will be reviewing our structure to better align it with our purpose and strategy, which will include establishing a new executive and leadership team and this appointment of a People and Inclusion Manager. This is a role for anyone with at least three years of HR experience and a strong interest in taking on a new challenge in an organisation with a commitment to maintaining and strengthening its people and culture and, to build its capacity to provide employment pathways for survivors of trafficking and slavery within the advice sector.

You will work closely under the supervision of the Head of Operations to develop and deliver a People, Culture and Inclusion strategy. You will provide efficient and effective management of Human Resources (HR) services and ensure ATLEU’s values and culture are woven into all areas of our activities. This is a part-time role (up to 21 hours per week), offering opportunities for growth and development.

The People and Inclusion Manager will be responsible for leading on enhancing  a positive, energising work environment at ATLEU, enhancing staff well-being; with a specific focus on

- developing and implementing a people, culture and inclusion strategy

- ensuring that employee wellbeing is at the forefront of this strategy

- supporting the changes and HR developments needed for ATLEU to offer an inclusive and trauma-informed work environment so that we are ready and able to hire and support survivors of human trafficking within our workforce

- learning and development for the wider team and support for line managers to ensure they are equipped to support and manage their teams

.

We are looking for a highly skilled Programmes & Operations Manager with a minimum of three years’ administrative experience to provide professional, inclusive, and efficient administrative support across DanceSyndrome’s Community programme and operations. This role is responsible for overseeing and managing the weekly Community timetable, and all associated administrative processes, co-ordinating key systems, and ensuring the smooth running of day-to-day operations, particularly in relation to session bookings, CRM management, and team co-ordination.

This role is comprises of administration, and programme management.

1. POSITION IN ORGANISATION:

Reporting to the Head of Community

2. SCOPE OF ROLE:                                  

1. Administrative duties

2. Events administration

3. Programme management administration

4. Monitoring & evaluation administration

We particularly welcome applications from people from the Global Majority, people with disabilities, and older people.

This is an exciting new role to head up DanceSyndrome’s Community work across Lancashire developing, nurturing, growing, and managing our community workshops. At the heart of our organisation are our weekly bespoke Community Inclusive Dance Workshops; ‘Everybody Dance’. These workshops are co-delivered by a qualified Dance Leader with a learning disability, working side-by-side with a non-disabled Dance Artist. As part of our ambitious strategy, we will be establishing several new workshops across Lancashire over the next five years and co-delivering inclusive dance provision for all ages from early years through to adulthood by 2030.

As Head of Community, you will oversee several vibrant and active communities; build community engagement and cohesion; and to collect, collate and analyse key data to demonstrate impact and to drive forward strategic planning and decision making. This is alongside developing and managing both strategic and operational long-term partnerships & collaborations across communities in the North-West and building and executing an engaging and effective Volunteer Programme to support all Community workshops.

This role supports strand one of DanceSyndrome’s ambitious strategy; Vision 2023; ‘To deliver an outstanding, collaborative, and high-quality programme of co-produced and co-delivered inclusive dance across the North-West’.

We are looking for an exceptional, experienced, self-motivated, and enthusiastic individual to represent DanceSyndrome at the heart of our communities taking our inclusive person-centred offering to the next level.

You will pro-actively support our timetable of weekly Community inclusive dance workshops ensuring they operate to the highest standards of Quality & Excellence and making sure that all systems and processes are in place in relation to security, registers and payments.

You will line manage the Programmes & Operations Manager and Data & impact Manager and collectively drive forward all aspects of our Community work to the highest standards.  

You will manage key partnerships with Community Centres and be instrumental in engaging and onboarding new participants supporting DanceSyndrome’s ambitious Vision 2030 strategy to increase participation, and reach under-served and diverse communities, as well as executing our Children & Young People strategy working across all ages.

You will identify, understand and engage with key partners and Stakeholders who can support DanceSyndrome’s ambitions to be the ‘go to’ and ‘organisation of choice’ for people with learning disabilities, leadership opportunities and an inclusive unique co-led delivery model which doesn’t exist anywhere else. Through effective partnership working, you will work across sectors and reach under-served and diverse communities. You will also be able to identify key barriers to access, gaps in current provision across the region and seek valuable evidence to inform strategy and to feed back to funders.

You will be an extremely personable and approachable individual with a strategic mind, and persuasive manner who is able to reach and attract new participants, increase engagement in our Community workshops, and secure local community engagement to ensure the long-term sustainability of DanceSyndrome’s community offering.

You will turn leads in sales in a variety of ways from initiating unusual and impactful partnerships, growing the number of beneficiaries, increasing sales of our products and services, securing in-kind support and vital funding.

You will also develop and manage an engaging and rewarding Volunteer Programme across key communities including recruiting, training, onboarding and retaining volunteers.

We particularly welcome applicants from Global Majority, who identify as LGBTQIA+, People with Disabilities and Older People to apply for this role.

We’re looking for a Head of People & Organisational Development to lead our people function, drive culture change, and support our incredible staff and volunteers.

You’ll work closely with the CEO and leadership team to deliver our 2030 vision, fostering a culture of learning, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

Are you a strategic, people-focused leader ready to shape the future of a respected local charity?

We’re looking for a Head of People & Organisational Development to lead our people function, drive culture change, and support our incredible staff and volunteers. You’ll work closely with the CEO and leadership team to deliver our 2030 vision—fostering a culture of learning, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

What You’ll Do:

- Lead people operations, L&D, and organisational development

- Champion EDI and embed inclusive practices across the charity

- Use data and insight to drive performance and engagement

- Deliver cross-functional change projects that make a real impact

What You’ll Bring:

- Senior HR/OD experience, ideally in the VCSE sector

- Level 7 qualification (or equivalent)

- Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills

- A values-driven mindset and passion for people and purpose

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a trusted, forward-thinking charity with a clear appetite for change. If you’re ready to lead with heart and ambition, we’d love to hear from you.

Today, 12 children and young people will be diagnosed with cancer. We’ll stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain.

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.

We challenge the systems and policies that surround children and young people, we highlight gaps and campaign for change. Because we know what a better future could look like. And we know what we need to do to make that future a reality. We need to push harder, reach further and work smarter. And we need the right people on our team to help us get there. People like you.

About the role

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we play a unique and vital role in supporting children and young people with cancer. Guided by our strategy, The Time is Now, we are committed to delivering high-quality, impactful services that make a real difference. As a leading provider of psychosocial support and accommodation throughout treatment, end-of-life, and bereavement, we are proud to ensure our services remain relevant, responsive, and tailored to the needs of those we support.

We are looking for a dedicated professional to provide business support across the directorate, working closely with senior operational leaders to drive the implementation and development of our services. This role will be instrumental in supporting new service initiatives and collaborating with other directorates and external partners, such as the NHS and charity organisations, to help us achieve our strategic goals.

This role is subject to a criminal record check. In the event of a successful application an enhanced criminal record check will be completed. 

What will I be doing?

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in the job description.

• Providing business support across service development, planning, evaluations, and improvement projects
• Collaborating with other directorates and external partners to deliver joint initiatives aligned with strategic goals
• Supporting the implementation of new systems and processes to drive continuous improvement
• Designing and managing operational programmes, embedding learning from previous work
• Coordinating cross-functional teams, managing risks, and ensuring robust monitoring and reporting
• Building strong relationships with stakeholders and managing governance and service agreements with NHS trusts

What do I need? 

Diverse perspectives and unique skillsets are at the heart of Young Lives vs Cancer. If you're passionate about making a positive impact and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet the criteria and person specification fully. Your potential is what matters most to us, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment to help you develop.

The key experience, skills and attributes we’re looking for in this role are:

• Experience in service delivery and development within health or social care, with a strong track record of managing programmes that drive improvement and innovation
• Skilled at working collaboratively across multi-disciplinary teams and with external partners to achieve shared goals
• Confident in preparing reports, managing corporate documentation, and using monitoring and evaluation to inform decision-making
• Strong understanding of project management, with the ability to identify risks and embed learning
• A commitment to anti-oppressive practice, equity, and amplifying the voices of children, young people, and families affected by cancer
• Passionate about Young Lives vs Cancer’s mission, values, and strategic priorities, with a proactive approach to safeguarding, inclusion, and continuous improvement

What will I gain?

 For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Thinking and Growth days: four days a year to support your wellbeing through reflection, learning and development - in whatever way works for you
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it.

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. CVs can be uploaded, but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to fully complete the work history sections of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly and objectively.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible.Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

To arrange an informal chat, please contact Cassie Davis, Service Manager Operations & Development. 

#ShowTheSalary #NonGraduatesWelcome

Closing date: Thursday 24 July, 5pm

Interview date: Tuesday 29 July, via Teams 

Interview note: We will let you know whether you’ve been shortlisted for interview on the afternoon of Friday 25 July. If you're shortlisted, you'll be invited to book an interview slot. Once confirmed, we'll email you the interview questions in advance.

Interim Head of Finance & Operations

Career Ready is a social mobility charity that believes that every young person deserves the opportunity to enjoy a rewarding future.

We were founded in 2002 by leading business figures with a mission: to boost social mobility by empowering young people and giving their talents a platform from which to flourish. Since then, we’ve grown in England and Scotland to support young people in areas of need.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced, qualified Finance professional to lead our Finance & Operations function.

About the Role

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer the Interim Head of Finance & Operations leads on and assumes day to day responsibility for providing high quality, strategic financial management for Career Ready.

You will lead on business operations to ensure the ongoing effective functioning of the charity and drive sustainable growth.

The Interim Head of Finance and Operations plays a key role in leading greater organisational efficiency and simplifying processes and will continue the delivery of a project plan reflecting the 2025-30 strategy.

You will play a critical role in driving the increased quality of Career Ready’s offer to our stakeholders in line with our strategy, vision and values.

Member of our SMT, comprising of the CEO, Director for Scotland, Director of Programme and Partnerships and Heads of functions.

This is an interim role to cover a period of maternity leave.

Main responsibilities and accountabilities

· Lead, direct and manage the finance and operations functions, overseeing two direct reports, ensuring they deliver a high-quality service to all internal and external stakeholders and are seen as adding value, in enabling Career Ready to achieve its vision and strategic objectives through its people. 

· Continue the delivery of a project plan reflecting the 2025-30 strategy, ensuring that activities happen at pace, are deadline-driven and achieve a high level of impact.

· Assume overall responsibility for the financial management of Career Ready, working with the SMT to ensure high quality and effective use of charitable funds.

· Input into and review the financial elements of funding applications and ensure that fund accounting processes align with funders’ requirements for project reporting.

· Produce financial reports for various stakeholders, as well as leading on financial modelling.

· Have oversight of all financial and accountancy matters including month end reports, management accounts, cash flow management, compliance, tax liability, presentation of management information and KPIs. Ensure that the CEO and Trustees are provided with accurate, timely information and analysis. 

· Oversee and coordinate the fully managed payroll services with the external bureau for all Career Ready employees and for some internship students (Jun to Aug during the Summer)

· Administration of the Staff Opt-In Pension Scheme, including onboarding new staff (Royal London)

· Act as a role model in our ‘one team’ culture. Lead in the development of efficient working practices across the charity, creating momentum and supporting motivation within the charity. 

· Lead risk management strategies and internal control procedures to minimise the risk of loss, or damage to, Career Ready’s assets. 

· Prepare and submit annual operational budgets and annual accounts to the CEO for review and approval.

· Draft and deliver papers for Trustees and Finance and Fundraising Committee (F&FC) meetings. 

· Attend Board and F&FC meetings to present papers and answer questions related to areas of expertise. 

· Provide day to day line management of the Senior Finance Officers and support their ongoing growth and development.

· Management of organisational governance and compliance activities, including policy management.

· Oversee and manage the organisation’s risk management register and process, with input from SMT.

· Oversee reviews and renewals of all insurance policies that affect the organisation.

· Lead on the compliance of statutory and charity regulatory reporting, giving guidance to colleagues where required.

· Ensure any changes to processes and procedures across the function are clearly documented.

Person Specification

Essential skills and experience

•  Belief and commitment to Career Ready’s mission and values
• Qualified (ACA/ACCA/CIMA/AAT) accountant with at least 5 years’ experience in financial management including budgeting, preferably in the charity sector.
• Significant experience in producing management and financial accounts
• Skilled in financial reporting and producing VAT returns
• Preparing for and ensuring a successful year-end audit, and demonstrable knowledge of UK Charities SORP and other reporting standards
• Experience in budgeting to support strategic decision making.
• Financial dexterity and strong analytical skills.
• Strong IT skills, including advanced MS Excel skills and extensive of using an accounting software, preferably Xero
• Excellent organisational and prioritising skills and ability to work independently and with autonomy
• Strong starter finisher with ability to lead and drive projects
• Knowledge of charity governance and compliance requirements
• Ability to build excellent relationships and have effective engagement with stakeholders
• Good communication skills and ability to communicate financial concepts to non-finance staff
• Attention to detail
• Ability to present financial information to various audiences
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and sensitivity of financial information
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to cope with competing demands to deadlines
• Honest and dependable

Desirable skills and experience

• Experience of leading a team, strong team building skills
• Line management experience
• Experience of using MS Planner or other project management tools
• Genuine interest in the work done by the Charity
• Experience of using a CRM (Salesforce)
• Degree in financial management or accounting

Full details are provided in the candidate pack

Salary and Benefits

Salary: £52,000 to £54,000 FTE (salary will be pro-rata for part time hours)

28-35 hours per week.  Career Ready is committed to supporting condensed/flexible working patterns.

Permanent and remote.  Travel to London required on an occasional basis

You will be rewarded with the following benefits:

· 6% contribution to personal pension plan, subject to 3% employee contribution.

· Annual leave: 27 days per annum plus bank/public holidays (pro rata for part time). The charity is also closed between Christmas and New Year. Career Ready also allows flexible use of some Bank & Public Holidays

· Cycle to Work Scheme

· Access to both our Reward Gateway Portal and an Employee Assistance Programme.

· Flexible working

· Work from home allowance and paid travel expenses.

We regret that Career Ready is unable to offer visa sponsorship and candidates must be able to demonstrate their right to work in the UK. In accordance with our commitment to safeguarding, offers of employment are subject to completion of a DBS check. 

Timetable

Applications close at 9am on Monday 21 July 2025 

Please note that the closing date may be brought forward if we receive strong applications.

This is an interim role to cover a period of maternity leave, with a provisional start date of late September for a handover period.