Head of people and engagement jobs

Head of Research and Engagement

Salary: £34,032 pro rata for 21 hours per week (£56,720 FTE)

Letchworth Garden City/ home working (hybrid)

Part time (21 hours a week)

Permanent

Flexible working considered

Lead research, insight and engagement that helps shape better MS care. If you are an experienced neurology or MS healthcare professional with strong leadership, research and stakeholder skills, this is an opportunity to turn evidence and lived experience into action for people affected by MS.

Join our friendly team
We are looking for someone who can bring people together around evidence, insight and improvement. You will be confident working with health professionals, researchers and external partners, and able to translate findings into clear, practical outputs that support better services and care. You will bring strong communication, project management and analytical skills, with the ability to lead a small portfolio and build trusted relationships across the MS community.

Our charity
The MS Trust is a UK charity which is here to help everyone make sense of MS. We are here for everyone affected by MS, from the moment of diagnosis and throughout their journey. We're here today, tomorrow and every day after that.

The role
Head of Research and Engagement: This is a senior and varied role where you will lead and oversee our research grants, MS service mapping, supported research and Helpline. Working closely with the Director of Services, you will set priorities, manage key roles, develop stakeholder relationships and make sure our research and mapping findings are shared clearly, accurately and accessibly. You will help strengthen our engagement with the NHS, professional bodies and partners, ensuring our work is rooted in real experience and has practical impact for people with MS.

What we can offer

· 28 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays, which increases with length of service to 30 days.

· Company pension with enhanced employer contribution. Salary Sacrifice scheme available.

· Death in Service benefit.

· Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay.

· Sick pay.

· Hybrid working.

· Employee assistance Programme

· Fantastic office location with free parking, local to town centre and train station. Good transport links to London and Cambridge.

· Learning and development policy to develop all staff.

· Cycle to work scheme, Volunteering day and Season ticket loans.

To find out more and apply

Please visit our website to download a job pack and application form (CVs will not be considered).

As part of our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), we appreciate your time completing the form, as this allows us to keep our recruitment process fair and neutral.

Closing date: 1 September 2026 at 9.00am

First Interviews: 17 September 2026

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Leadership

· Lead and evolve Back Up's Partnerships strategy aligned to organisational objectives.

· Identify opportunities to diversify and grow income across corporate, trusts, statutory and commercial partnerships.

· Contribute to fundraising strategy, budgeting and business planning.

· Monitor KPIs, income targets and pipeline performance.

· Prepare reports and forecasts for senior leadership and trustees.

· Act as core member of the Fundraising Leadership Team.

Corporate Partnerships

· Develop an ambitious corporate partnerships programme.

· Personally secure and steward high-value partnerships.

· Develop compelling partnership propositions.

· Build and manage a robust prospect pipeline.

· Explore sponsorship, commercial collaborations, and pro bono opportunities.

Trusts, Foundations and Statutory Funding

· Oversee the statutory, trusts, and foundations programme.

· Lead the development of high value, complex funding applications.

· Support compelling funding applications across funders.

· Identify new funding opportunities.

· Ensure timely, high-quality reporting and stewardship.

Special Events

· Provide strategic oversight of special events fundraising, for example: Front Row Fashion, the City Dinner, and the Back Up Ball.

· Support the Special Events Manager to maximise income, sponsorship and engagement.

Leadership and People Management

· Lead, coach and develop a high-performing team.

· Foster an inclusive and collaborative culture.

· Set objectives and support professional development, including through mentoring, coaching, and training.

Relationship Management

· Build relationships with partners, trustees and stakeholders.

· Represent Back Up externally.

· Work collaboratively across the organisation.

· Ensure partnerships align with Back Up's values and ethical fundraising principles.

Planning, Performance and Governance

· Manage budgets, forecasts and income pipelines.

· Maintain accurate CRM records.

· Analyse performance and recommend improvements.

· Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and organisational policies.

· Support the ethical and responsible use of AI and other technologies across the charity to support our ability to deliver for people with spinal cord injury.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Experience

· Significant experience securing a wide variety of high-value corporate partnerships, statutory, and trust funding.

· Track record of delivering 7 figure income targets.

· Experience leading fundraising or business development teams.

· Experience developing fundraising or commercial strategies.

· Experience managing fundraising special events.

· Experience managing senior stakeholder relationships.

· Experience managing KPIs, budgets, and forecasts.

Essential Knowledge and Skills

· Excellent influencing, negotiation and relationship-building skills.

· Outstanding written communication and presentation skills.

· Strategic thinking and commercial awareness.

· Strong project management and organisational skills.

· Ability to use data and CRM systems to inform decisions.

· Collaborative leadership style.

Desirable

· Knowledge of disability or spinal cord injury.

· Experience with Power BI, Canva, Mailchimp or Asana.

The above list is not exclusive or exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be expected within the scope of this role.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Engagement Manager is an experienced professional who plays a key role in supporting donor engagement across all Impetus donors, enabling the team to provide best practice and high-quality donor stewardship and a platform for the renewal of key philanthropic gifts.

The Engagement function is responsible for pro bono and volunteering. Reporting to the Head of Engagement, the Engagement Manager is responsible for supporting the successful delivery and continuous improvement of the volunteering programme, ensuring it delivers high-quality opportunities, contributes to agreed KPIs and evolves in line with the needs of funders and the organisation. 

The postholder will account manage key relationships with mid-level supporters and internal stakeholders, working across teams to deliver meaningful and well-coordinated engagement opportunities. They will contribute to identifying and developing new opportunities for the volunteering and pro bono programmes that respond to funder interests and portfolio needs. 

In addition, they will manage relationships with mid-level pro bono supporters, taking them through the full pro bono journey from project matching and onboarding through to stewardship and ongoing support.

This is a cross-functional role that collaborates closely with the Investment team, wider Philanthropy team, Public Affairs team and other stakeholders to ensure a consistent and excellent donor experience.

Key responsibilities

Volunteering programme  

• Account manage relationships linked to volunteering across corporates, individuals and grant-making trusts, ensuring engagement is maintained and escalating strategic issues or risks where appropriate.
• Support or lead meetings, alongside fundraising account managers where appropriate, with funders to understand their volunteering interests and contribute to the development of suitable engagement opportunities.
• Support account managers in ensuring consistent donor engagement throughout annual giving cycles, including tracking, reporting, and communications.
• Contribute to the development of the volunteering function to ensure the programme offers a range of high-quality opportunities suitable for different funder types and aligned to organisational priorities.
• Identify and suggest new volunteering opportunities based on charity needs and funder interests, working with the Head of Engagement to ensure strategic alignment across the programme.
• Lead delivery of the mentoring programme within agreed plans and frameworks.
• Where necessary, support delivery of the volunteering programme (i.e workshops), ensuring it delivers high-quality engagement activities, contributes to agreed KPIs and continues to develop in response to organisational and funder needs.
• Build and manage effective working relationships across the Investment team, Philanthropy team and other stakeholders to ensure volunteering opportunities are well scoped, coordinated and delivered effectively.
• Work with the Head of Engagement to coordinate needs across the Engagement team, liaise closely with the Investment team and portfolio contacts, and plan and deliver a high-quality programme of volunteering opportunities.
• Ensure communications with donors and external partners are clear, timely, compelling and aligned with agreed messaging.
• Line manage the Engagement Officer, providing support, guidance and oversight to enable effective delivery. Where necessary, lead volunteering delivery sessions when cover is required.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in Salesforce, including pipeline activity, reporting and key relationship updates.

Pro Bono programme 

• Support the identification, prospecting and conversion of new pro bono supporters, aligned with the needs of portfolio charities and Impetus, including attending meetings with prospective supporters.
• Manage relationships with mid-level pro bono funders, supporting delivery across the full engagement process from identifying suitable projects and matching opportunities through to onboarding, delivery and stewardship.
• Work with the Head of Engagement, internal teams and charity partners to scope projects and support matching pro bono funders to suitable opportunities.
• Support the onboarding and ongoing management of pro bono partners, ensuring clear communication and a high-quality supporter experience.
• Monitor the progress and quality of pro bono projects, gather feedback and identify improvements to strengthen delivery and impact.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in Salesforce, including pipeline activity, reporting and key relationship updates.

Other

• Support the development and implementation of efficient processes and systems within the Philanthropy team, with a focus on consistency and effectiveness.
• Work in line with best practices and agreed processes, policies and standards across all engagement activities.
• Share insights and learnings internally and externally to support continuous improvement.
• Work in line with Impetus’ strategy, policies, and procedures.
• Attend and support delivery of Impetus events as needed.
• Support the Philanthropy team as required with ad hoc duties.
• Provide cover for aspects of the Head of Engagement role when required.
• Represent the Philanthropy team in cross-functional projects and working groups, contributing to delivery and collaboration.
   

Person specification

Essential

• Experience of delivering or managing successful engagement, volunteering or fundraising activities, including tracking performance against objectives or KPIs.
• Familiarity with the fundraising landscape, including a good understanding of the corporate donor marketplace.
• Strong account management experience, including managing external partners or funders and building effective relationships across internal teams.
• Experience managing across the donor lifecycle, and  identifying and developing opportunities that meet stakeholder needs.
• Experience of developing opportunities for diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to understand and communicate complex ideas and information, including Impetus model.
• Experience working with skilled volunteers or pro bono partners, including supporting relationships through the full lifecycle from scoping or matching through to delivery and stewardship.
• A collaborative working style, comfortable working across teams with a commitment to working in a collaborative and inclusive way to achieve shared objectives.
• Experience of managing and developing staff, including setting clear objectives, providing regular feedback and creating development opportunities. Able to adapt management style to support colleagues at different levels of seniority and experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience delivering workstreams or programmes within agreed plans and KPIs.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to devise donor engagement plans and use project/account plans, budgets, and other financial information.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and manager a busy and varied workload.
• Ability to look beyond own area of expertise and be pro-active and creative in problem solving.
• Ability to make operational decisions and escalate strategic issues where appropriate.
• IT proficiency, including Microsoft Office and CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce).
• A commitment to Impetus’ mission.
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Knowledge of the sector – education and employment.
• Knowledge and understanding of the needs of a young person, charities, and corporates.
• Experience of working with young people.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 23rd August 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 31st August 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 7th September 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

Head of Communications & Public Affairs 

Salary: Up to £62k depending on experience
Location: Remote, with regular planned travel nationwide, particularly to London and the South, plus attendance at monthly and quarterly team meetings
Hours: Full Time, 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

We're looking for an exceptional communications leader to join Help for Heroes as our Head of Communications & Public Affairs. This is a rare opportunity to shape how one of the UK's most recognised charities engages with the media, policymakers, supporters and the wider public, ensuring the voices of veterans and their families are heard where it matters most.

Leading our integrated communications, public affairs, policy and PR activity, you'll develop influential campaigns that continue to strengthen our reputation, support fundraising and drive meaningful change for the Armed Forces community. Working closely with senior leaders across the charity, you'll act as a trusted adviser, bringing insight into the political, media and stakeholder landscape while helping to navigate the opportunities and risks that affect our mission.

This is a high-profile leadership role for someone who combines strategic thinking with outstanding delivery, thrives on building influential relationships and wants to use their expertise to create lasting impact for those who have served our country.

Please see below for more information on what just might be your future role.

About the Role

As Head of Communications & Public Affairs, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping how the charity is seen, heard and understood by the public, media, policymakers and supporters. Ensuring the experiences of veterans and their families remain at the heart of national conversations and decision-making.

• Developing and delivering an integrated communications, public affairs and policy strategy that advances the charity's mission and influence.
• Leading high-profile campaigns that raise awareness, support fundraising objectives and drive systemic change for the Armed Forces community.
• Building influential relationships with media, government, political stakeholders, partner organisations and sector leaders.
• Acting as a trusted adviser to senior leaders, providing strategic counsel on reputation, stakeholder engagement, public policy and emerging issues
• Leading the charity's press office, crisis communications activity, ambassador programme and external reputation management
• Developing, inspiring and coaching a high-performing team, fostering innovation, collaboration and measurable impact.

About You

Are you a strategic communications leader who knows how to turn insight into action and ambition into results?

Do you have a strong track record of leading integrated communications, public affairs, policy or campaigning activity that has built reputation, influenced decision-makers and delivered measurable impact?

Can you confidently navigate complex issues, build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders and provide clear, credible counsel?

Are you equally comfortable shaping long-term strategy, responding to fast-moving external events and spotting opportunities to raise the profile and influence of an organisation?

If you're passionate about telling powerful stories, understand the UK media and political landscape, and enjoy leading talented teams to achieve ambitious goals, we'd love to hear from you.

You'll bring significant senior-level experience across communications, public affairs or policy, alongside expertise in media relations, stakeholder engagement and reputation management.

Most importantly, you'll be motivated by the opportunity to use your skills, networks and leadership to improve outcomes for veterans and their families.

About the Team

You’ll join our ambitious Marketing, Communications and Public Affairs directorate, a team dedicated to amplifying the voices of veterans and their families and ensuring their experiences influence public understanding and decision-making.

We are a collaborative, creative, and purpose-driven team that works across the charity to tell powerful stories, build meaningful relationships and create lasting impact. Together, we’re passionate about helping the Armed Forces community get the support they deserve.

In return we can offer you:

• Belonging to a team who make a difference to our community and value equality, diversity and inclusion.
• 29 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, regardless of service — plus your birthday off to celebrate!
• Opportunity to buy and sell up to 5 days annual leave per year.
• Added to our free health scheme from day one, including discounts on dental, opticians, massages, and more - with the option to upgrade.
• 3 volunteer days per year to support the Help for Heroes community.
• A generous salary sacrifice pension scheme with an 8% employer contribution and a minimum 3% employee contribution, plus life insurance up to 4× salary as an active member.

Closing date: 23rd August 2026

Interview Process: Two stage process with an initial competency based interview and second round stage involving a task.

First round interviews to be held in person or via Teams 4th/7th/8th or 9th September.

Second Round in person 16th or 22nd September.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high number of strong applications.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Are you passionate about creating positive opportunities for children and young people? Do you enjoy organising activities, building partnerships and helping families access the support they need?

Refugee Action Kingston (RAK) is seeking a dedicated and highly organised Youth Activities and Enrichment Coordinator to join our award-winning Bright Futures Children and Young People's Programme.

In this rewarding role, you will plan and coordinate engaging and inclusive educational, recreational and enrichment activities that help refugee and asylum-seeking children and young people build confidence, develop skills, improve wellbeing and feel connected to their local community.

Location: We have offices in Kingston Upon Thames, greater London.

Hours: 14 hours per week – 2 days a week* (including paid half-hour lunch break).

Salary:  £12,740 (FTE £31,850) for 2 years.

Leave: 26 days per annum Pro Rata plus bank holidays.

Starting Date October 2026.

Responsible to Head of Services/Family Support and Supplementary School Manager.

*The peak activity periods for this role happen during school half-terms, which means extra hours will be required during these times. In return, we offer full flexibility with Time Off in Lieu (TOIL), allowing you to reclaim your time outside of busy half-term periods. Afterschool club is currently on Wednesdays and you will be expected to attend in person until 6pm. 

Purpose of the Role

The Youth Activities and Enrichment Coordinator will play a key role in planning, coordinating, delivering and monitoring educational, recreational and enrichment activities as part of our award-winning Bright Futures Children’s and Young People’s Programme. Working closely with the Head of Services/Family Support and Supplementary School Manager, Primary Teacher, external partners and volunteers, the post holder will ensure the provision of engaging, inclusive and memorable opportunities. In addition, they will support the delivery of RAK Bright Futures After School Club and Supplementary School and contribute to education-related casework for children and young people and monitoring and evaluation of all above activity.

All staff are expected to adhere to the Equal Opportunities Policy of RAK at all times.

Refugee Action Kingston (RAK) is a well-established charity dedicated to supporting refugees and people seeking asylum from anywhere in the world who find themselves in the Royal Borough of Kingston and neighbouring boroughs. Since its foundation in 1991, RAK has been the main provider of direct services to refugees and people seeking asylum as well as promoting refugee rights.

RAK aims to support refugees through the process from their initial reception in the borough through to final integration into the local community in order to enable them to live a fulfilling life and become accepted and active participants in our local communities.  We achieve this by accomplishing a variety of outcomes for refugee and asylum-seeking families through delivering a holistic service including advice, information, counselling, education, training, and assistance to access mainstream services and employment opportunities to help them rebuild their lives.

What we can offer you

· Work in a highly respected organisation punching above its weight – providing quality support to around 1300 individuals and families a year.

· A friendly and supportive environment, with an experienced team of professional teachers, counsellors, solicitors and advisers working to quality standards.

· Flexible working.

· A committed community in South West London that supports RAK through volunteering, sharing information about our work, and donations.

· Generous annual leave.

· Paid 30 minute lunch break if working 6 or more hours per day.

Our values 

• Empathy: we put ourselves in the shoes of those we work with. 

• Enterprise: we are innovative and resourceful in our approach to supporting refugees and people seeking asylum. 

• Empowerment: we strive to empower our clients, helping them achieve their aspirations. 

Key Responsibilities

• Research, plan and coordinate holiday activities, trips and workshops that promote learning, wellbeing, community engagement and social inclusion.
• Develop and maintain relationships with activity providers, venues, schools, community organisations, cultural institutions and other partners to secure and coordinate activities, trips and enrichment opportunities.
• Manage invitations and registrations. Communicate with families regarding activities, permissions, travel arrangements and other relevant information.
• Organise the provision of lunches and refreshments through partnerships with local organisations and suppliers. Ensuring compliance with relevant food hygiene standards.
• Track project expenditure, process invoices, reconcile activity-related expenses, and maintain accurate budget records.
• Maintain records of attendance and activities. Administer questionnaires to monitor outcomes and obtain feedback to support evaluation and project reporting requirements.
• Take photos and prepare short commentary for social media whilst prioritising online safety of children and young people and ensuring all necessary permissions are in place.
• Deal sensitively with children, young people and families, identifying needs and making referrals to appropriate RAK services, external organisations and community opportunities. 
• Keep up to date with local community activities and services and ensure youth activities notice boards are regularly updated.
• Promote the welfare and safety of children and young people at all times.
• Adhere to RAK’s safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Conduct appropriate risk assessments and ensure health and safety requirements are met for activities and trips.
• Ensure compliance with data protection and confidentiality requirements.

Support Duties

• Support the delivery of RAK’s After School Club and Supplementary School programmes.
• Provide support to the Head of Services/ Family Support and Supplementary School Manager and Primary Teacher with education-related enquiries and casework.
• Support and work alongside volunteers involved in the delivery of Bright Futures.
• Ensure client details and case records are accurate, confidential and recorded on the RAK database and other relevant platforms.

Other duties and shared responsibilities

• Attend team meetings, training and other activities required to support the successful delivery of the programme.
• Represent RAK professionally with partners, stakeholders and the wider community.
• Undertake any other duties reasonably required by the Head of Services/Family Support and Supplementary School Manager that are consistent with the nature of the role.
• Undertake other duties such as implementing cleanliness procedures, and assisting in fire practices.
• Implement Refugee Action Kingston’s Equal Opportunities, Confidentiality, Health and Safety and other policies in all areas of work.

Please note the duties outlined in this Job Description may be reviewed and amended from time to time.

Person specification

•  Experience of organising activity and enrichment programmes and events for children and young people.
•  Experience of working with children and young people at risk of violence or exploitation.
•  Experience of managing administrative processes and maintaining accurate records.
•  Experience of monitoring budgets and handling financial administration.
•  Experience of working with volunteers.
•  Digital proficiency – experience of working with database systems, Microsoft 365, Canva.
•  Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion.
•  Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
•  Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, young people, families and partner organisations.
• Ability and willingness to work flexibly.
• Available to work during school half term holidays.
• A commitment to the aims and objectives of Refugee Action Kingston and an understanding of the challenges faced by people seeking asylum and refugees in the UK.

Desirable criteria

• Spoken competency in one or more key client language groups.
• Lived or learned experience of the challenges faced by children and young people affected by displacement, disruption to education, youth violence or exploitation.

Our workplace

We want RAK to be a great place to work and to ensure that our communities are represented across our workforce. A vital part of this is ensuring we are a truly inclusive organisation that encourages diversity in all respects, including diversity of thought. Our values are clearly set out in our strategy RAK Strategy 2023-28 which is available on our website.

RAK is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to recruiting staff, trustees and volunteers who reflect the communities we serve and the wider community of London where we live and work. We particularly welcome applications from people: from Black, Asian and other minority-ethnic communities; refugee and migrant backgrounds; LGBTQ+ communities; with disabilities; and neurodiverse communities.

Asking for adjustments - RAK is committed to making our recruitment practices barrier-free and as accessible as possible for everyone. This includes making changes for neurodiverse people, people with disabilities or long-term health conditions. If you would like us to do anything differently during the application, interview, or assessment process, including providing information in an alternative format, please contact us.

RAK is obliged to comply with the Asylum and Immigration Act (1996), and this requires certain documents to be presented by candidates before an offer of employment can be made. If you are invited to interview, we will ask you to bring these documents with you. For jobs which involve, for example, working with, or having access to children and/or vulnerable adults and their records, we will require an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and need to have information from you regarding any previous, existing, or pending convictions or cautions. This will form part of the recruitment process if you are successful after interview.

Interviews will take place w/c 21 September 2026.

This is a new role to stabilise, diversify and grow income in a financially constrained environment, reducing reliance on statutory funding, increasing unrestricted income, and strengthening Catalyst Support’s credibility with all sources of non statutory funding, including trusts, foundations, corporates, individuals and communities. The postholder holds clear accountability for income performance, return on investment and risk management, and plays a critical role in the organisation’s financial recovery and long-term sustainability. The role is designed as a strategic investment, with the expectation that income generated will move the function towards break-even and net contribution over time, supported by clear targets and Board oversight.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Income Delivery

• Lead and deliver a multi-year income and engagement strategy covering trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, major donors, community fundraising and individual giving.
• Take ownership of income targets, pipelines and forecasts, including break-even requirements and risk exposure.
• Actively manage income risk, developing scenario plans and mitigation actions where delivery falls below expectation.
• Work with the Executive and Senior Leadership Teams to align income activity with organisational strategy and service priorities.

Funding Applications & Grant Management

• Provide strategic oversight, delivery and quality assurance of all high-value bids, tenders and funding applications.
• Ensure bids are evidence-led, outcome-focused, accurately costed and aligned to service capacity.
• Taking direct responsibility for bid and tender preparation and submission.
• Maintain strong relationships with funders, and foundations, ensuring compliance with reporting requirements and effective stewardship.
• Maintain strong relationships with funders, and foundations, ensuring compliance with reporting requirements and effective stewardship.
• Contribute approximately 20% of working time towards partner applications and collaborative projects with key partners, supporting joint funding and shared objectives.

Communications, Marketing & Engagement

• Lead communications and engagement functions to directly support income generation, funder confidence and organisational reputation.
• Ensure all external messaging demonstrates impact, value for money and strategic coherence.
• Grow individual giving, community fundraising and supporter engagement where there is clear return on investment.
• Oversee brand consistency and visibility across digital and offline channels.

Internal Collaboration & Income Culture

• Work closely with service and enabling teams to strengthen funding evidence, case studies and impact data.
• Build organisational understanding that income generation is a shared responsibility.
• Working with services and enabling teams to develop compelling cases for support.
• Equip teams with clarity on how funding, impact and delivery are connected.

Performance, Impact & Governance

• Establish and monitor KPIs covering income performance, ROI, cost-per-£ raised, engagement metrics and pipeline health.
• Report regularly to the Executive team and Trustees, providing transparent assessment of progress, risks and corrective action.
• Support Board assurance through disciplined performance monitoring and review points.

Team Leadership

• Provide line management, development and performance oversight for income generation and communications staff. Head of Income Generation Feb 2026
• Recruit, develop and retain high-quality team capability aligned to organisational needs.

Leadership Contribution

• Contribute as a senior operational leader to organisational planning, change and continuous improvement.
• Work closely with the Director of Services on future service design, positioning and sustainability.
• Undertake other duties appropriate to the seniority of the role and Catalyst Support’s mission.
• Strengthen partnership development with Mary Frances Trust to enhance county-wide support, with particular emphasis on provision for mental health services across both East and West regions.

Person Specification

Essential Experience

• Proven experience securing trust, grant and philanthropic income at scale, with clear evidence of income conversion and delivery.
• Track record of leading income strategies that generate net financial contribution, including roles where income targets were explicitly expected to cover or exceed post costs or programme investment.
• Experience operating in financially constrained, recovery-focused or turnaround environments, with responsibility for balancing income ambition against organisational risk.
• Experience of Board-level reporting, accountability and scrutiny, including transparent reporting of income performance against targets.
• Demonstrated ability to build senior relationships with funders, partners and individuals that translate into sustained or repeat income.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in mental health, wellbeing or community services.
• Experience overseeing communications and marketing functions.
• Experience operating within multi-stream or system-based service environments.

Skills & Competencies

• Commercially and financially astute.
• Strong analytical, forecasting and risk-management capability, including income pipeline assessment and contribution modelling.
• Confident influencer with credibility at senior and external levels. • Strategic thinker with a strong bias towards delivery, outcomes and financial impact.
• Resilient, solutions-focused and adaptable in high-pressure, performance-driven environments.

Values & Behaviours

• Commitment to Catalyst Support’s values: Kindness, Integrity and Commitment.
• Collaborative, inclusive and trauma-informed approach.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and lived-experience leadership

Equal Opportunities Statement

We acknowledge the unique contribution that all Catalyst employees, volunteers and clients can bring to our organisation in terms of their culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital status, nationality, age, religion or belief and any physical disability or history of mental health or additional problems.

About Medair UK 

Medair is a Christian humanitarian organisation that responds to conflict, disease, and disaster so that the world’s most vulnerable and hard-to reach people can live with dignity and hope. Medair UK is an affiliate of the Swiss-based humanitarian organisation, Medair International.   

Together, we work in some of the world's most remote and challenging environments. In 2025, despite significant pressures across the humanitarian sector, Medair supported more than 3.6 million people across 13 countries through life-saving health, nutrition, water, sanitation, shelter and cash assistance programmes. From responding to cholera outbreaks in South Sudan and supporting communities affected by conflict in Sudan, DR Congo and Lebanon, to delivering emergency relief following natural disasters in Madagascar and Myanmar, our teams continued to reach people in greatest need with compassion, professionalism and perseverance. 

About the Role/Role and Responsibilities 

An excellent opportunity has arisen to join the Medair UK team as we are seeking a part-time Head of Operations. The post holder will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of Medair UK's finance, HR, IT and governance functions, ensuring robust systems, effective controls, and compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. They will support the Medair UK Director and Board of Trustees to ensure effective governance and management of the charity in accordance with best practice and ensure a sustainable operational platform is in place to support all Medair UK’s functions. The Head of Operations will contribute to organisational strategy, culture and decision-making, while also taking a practical and proactive role in the day-to-day delivery of operational activities. They will help lead, support and develop the culture of Medair UK, promoting its values and Christian-distinctiveness internally and externally. 

About you 

You will be a highly organised and experienced, strategic and hands-on operational leader who can provide strong oversight of finance, governance, HR, IT and office management within a growing charity. You will have significant experience in financial and operational management, with a sound understanding of charity finance, governance and regulatory compliance and UK employment law. You will be an effective people manager and leader, with strong communication, planning and problem-solving skills. You will be adaptable, able to manage multiple priorities, work to deadlines, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to Medair’s Christian values, mission and humanitarian purpose. 

Key Activity Areas 

Financial Management and Reporting 

• Lead the charity’s financial management, ensuring accurate records, robust controls and effective financial processes.

• Oversee budgeting, forecasting and cash flow management, in collaboration with the Director to support strategic planning and financial sustainability.

• Manage reserves and organisational funds, ensuring effective stewardship, appropriate cost recovery, timely grant transfers and compliance with donor and regulatory requirements. 

• Prepare timely and accurate monthly management accounts, financial reports and performance analysis to support informed decision-making.

• Lead the production of statutory accounts and manage the annual external audit process.

• Ensure compliance and best practice with regard to legal and other regulatory bodies, including data protection and the timely submission of accounts and other returns. 

Human Resource Management 

• Lead and oversee all HR operations, including the recruitment, onboarding and retention of staff and volunteers.

• Ensure compliance with employment legislation and organisational policies through effective management and administration of contracts, HR records, payroll, pensions and employee benefits. 

• Manage employee lifecycle processes, including inductions, appraisals, performance reviews and professional development planning.

• Maintain accurate HR records and oversee attendance, leave, sickness and other employee-related processes in line with organisational policies. 

Leadership, Governance and Organisational Development 

• Lead organisational operational planning and risk management, ensuring Medair UK has the systems, processes and resources required to deliver its strategic objectives. 

• Maintain the corporate risk register and support the Board with governance, compliance and reporting requirements. 

• Support the Director and Board of Trustees through the provision of financial, operational and governance advice, contributing to organisational effectiveness and long-term sustainability. 

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

• Foster a healthy organisational culture that reflects Medair's Christian values and supports staff wellbeing, engagement and development. 

IT & Office Management  

• Oversee the IT infrastructure, managing the procurement, installation and ongoing maintenance of IT hardware, systems and software liaising with the IT department at the Medair International Global Support Office (GSO) in Switzerland as appropriate. 

• Lead the development, administration and optimisation of Salesforce , other fundraising platforms and related system integrations to support fundraising, donor engagement and organisational objectives, liaising with the IT department in GSOSwitzerland as appropriate.

• Manage the Salesforce system configuration, enhancements, user access and upgrades, ensuring the platform remains effective and reliable. 

• Drive the continuous improvement of Salesforce systems, processes and data management practices, ensuring high standards of data quality, security and operational efficiency.Implement system enhancements, streamline processes and carry out regular data quality, integrity and cleansing checks to ensure accurate, consistant and reliable data. 

• Provide training, guidance and user support on Salesforce and Campaign Monitor to maximise staff capability and system adoption. 

• Ensure a fully functioning office base which enables Medair UK to deliver its operational activities in the most efficient and effective manner. 

Tasks common to all staff  

• Act as an ambassador for Medair UK at all times when liaising externally and internally 

• Ensure consistent implementation of the Medair brand across all relevant activities 

• Record information as necessary and comply at all times with requirements for handling personal / sensitive data 

Qualifications - DESIRABLE 

• Vocational qualification in business or financial management / administration desirable 

Languages 

• Excellent English (spoken and written). 

Experience / Competencies – ESSENTIAL 

• Significant experience in financial and office administration

• Understanding of UK finance and governance and employment law 

• Proficient in finance packages, ideally Quickbooks 

• Proficient in fundraising or other database(s), ideally Salesforce and Campaign Monitor

• Experience of Microsoft Office solutions, with proficiency in Excel, Word, Internet and email use. 

• Effective people manager and strong leadership skills 

• Ability to handle a wide and varied workload, with tight deadlines and competing priorities. 

• Capable planner, problem-solver and clear communicator.

• Inspired by and in full agreement with Medair’s Christian values and ethos 

• Willing to contribute to the spiritual life of the team including prayer meetings 

• Willingness to be flexible in terms of hours worked at occasional, but inevitable moments of crisis 

Experience / Competencies – DESIRABLE 

• Experience of charity leadership and governance 

• Experience in relief / development work 

• Understanding of Humanitarian Issues 

Salary: £47,000 - £52,000 

Closing date: Wednesday 12th August, 5pm. Interviews to be held on Wednesday 2nd or Thursday 3rd September. 

Workplace:Medair UK office is based in Kennington, London. There is possibility to adopt hybrid working, but with a minimum of 2 days/wk in the office. 

Contract Details: Part-Time (3 days 0.6 FTE), permanent 

Direct Reports: Operations Support Officer 

Only those eligible to work in the UK can apply. 

NOTE: In order to maintain the organisation’s Christian ethos, there is a genuine occupational requirement for the holder of this Medair UK position to be a committed Christian. 

Every week, somewhere in England or Wales, a child experiences something they didn't think was possible. For almost 30 years Panathlon Foundation has created opportunities through inclusive sport for disabled and disadvantaged young people. Demand for our work continues to grow and we're looking for an outstanding Head of Fundraising to help us create opportunities for even more young people. This isn't simply about raising money, it's about creating opportunities.

Role Purpose

To lead Panathlon Foundation's fundraising strategy, securing sustainable income through trusts, foundations, corporate partnerships, individual giving, philanthropy, fundraising events and supporter engagement. 
Working closely with the Chief Executive, Trustees and Strategic Leads, the Head of Fundraising will develop the relationships, opportunities and fundraising culture that enable Panathlon to reach more disabled and disadvantaged young people through inclusive sport.

Why This Role Exists

Panathlon already benefits from committed funders, valued supporters and an experienced bid writer. This role has been created to take fundraising to the next stage of its development by providing strategic leadership, coordinating fundraising activity across the organisation and building sustainable income for the future.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver the fundraising strategy.
• Develop income from trusts and foundations.
• Build corporate fundraising relationships that generate sustainable income.
• Grow individual giving and philanthropy.
• Develop community fundraising and fundraising events.
• Lead supporter stewardship.
• Coordinate fundraising activity across the organisation.
• Manage the specialist bid writer and future fundraising resource.
• Report progress to the CEO and Trustees.

Organisation-wide Fundraising

Chief Executive – Strategic relationships, major donors and key introductions.
Head of Fundraising – Fundraising strategy, income generation, stewardship and coordination.
Strategic Leads – Programme partnerships and identifying funding opportunities.
Bid Writer – Funding applications and grant reporting.
Trustees – Advocacy, introductions and fundraising support.

Person Specification

Successful fundraising experience; strategic thinking; relationship building; communication; leadership; planning; collaborative, authentic, resilient and values-driven.

Three-Year Vision

A mature, coordinated fundraising function with diversified income, stronger supporter relationships and the financial resilience to enable Panathlon to reach significantly more disabled and disadvantaged young people.

Apply with your CV and a covering letter.

In your covering letter, please indicate:

Why you want to work for Panathlon Foundation.

Your most significant fundraising achievement.

How you would help grow Panathlon's fundraising over the next three years.

to https://bit.ly/PanathlonHoF

Remote work with occasional on site meetings also possible.

About Multibank Scotland

Multibank Scotland tackles poverty and waste by redistributing essential goods to people who need them. We work through a network of charities, community organisations and frontline services to provide families and individuals with items such as clothing, toiletries, bedding, baby products, household goods and other essentials.

We currently operate across Fife, Dundee, Perth and Edinburgh, and are expanding into Glasgow. This is an important period of growth for the organisation, and we are looking for an entrepreneurial, practical and relationship-focused person to help us build lasting partnerships and identify new opportunities for impact.

Role Overview

The Head of Partnerships and Development will lead Multibank Scotland’s partnership and development activity.

This is a senior, outward-facing role for someone who can identify opportunities, make clear and compelling asks, build trust quickly and turn ideas into practical partnerships. We are looking for someone who creates momentum and follows opportunities through, rather than someone focused solely on networking or stakeholder management.

The role will lead the day-to-day development pipeline across corporate partnerships, product supply, strategic relationships, expansion opportunities, funding proposals and supporter stewardship.

A central part of the role will be developing partnerships that increase the volume, quality and range of goods available for redistribution. This will include working with businesses, manufacturers, retailers, logistics providers and other organisations to secure donated goods, services, expertise and in-kind support.

The postholder will also help expand Multibank Scotland’s reach. Working closely with the Chief Executive and the Scotland-wide Operations Manager, they will support the development of new partnerships, satellite sites and delivery models across Scotland.

Fundraising will form part of the role, but it is not primarily a traditional fundraising post. The emphasis is on building strategic partnerships that create long-term value, whether through goods, funding, services, expertise, infrastructure or collaboration.

The Chief Executive will continue to lead on overall strategy, major funder relationships, Board reporting, governance, finance and key organisational decisions. The successful candidate will add senior capacity at an important stage of growth, helping to turn external interest and opportunity into delivery and lasting impact.

How to Apply

To apply for the Partnerships & Fundraising Manager role, please submit:

• A current CV, outlining your relevant experience and career history
• A cover letter (maximum two pages), clearly demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the person specification and why you are interested in the role Applications close: Sunday 16th August 2026 at 5:00pm

Please download the job description for full details. 

Senior Fundraising & Engagement Manager

Salary: £45,000
Location: Twickenham, London (hybrid working: four days office-based, one day remote)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent

About Harlequins Foundation

Harlequins Foundation uses the power of sport to improve the lives of people across communities. Working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, the Foundation delivers programmes that promote physical wellbeing, mental health, education, inclusion and personal development. Through its work, the Foundation creates positive opportunities, tackles inequalities and helps people reach their full potential. 

As the Foundation continues to grow its reach and impact, this is an exciting opportunity to join at a pivotal stage and help shape the future of fundraising and supporter engagement.

About the Role

This is a senior fundraising leadership role with the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future sustainability of the Foundation. Reporting to the Head of Foundation, you will lead the development and delivery of an ambitious income generation and supporter engagement strategy, driving growth across Individual Giving, Major Donors and Trusts & Foundations. 

Many of these income streams are still developing, making this an ideal opportunity for an entrepreneurial fundraiser who enjoys building new opportunities, shaping strategy and delivering sustainable growth. You will play a key role in developing long-term supporter relationships, strengthening the Foundation's fundraising infrastructure and increasing engagement with donors, ambassadors and stakeholders.

This role would suit an accomplished relationship-builder who combines strategic thinking with hands-on delivery and is passionate about creating meaningful supporter experiences that drive long-term impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of the Foundation's fundraising and engagement strategy. 
• Build and grow income streams across Individual Giving, Major Donors and Trusts & Foundations. 
• Develop fundraising pipelines, targets and performance frameworks to support sustainable income growth. 
• Cultivate, solicit and steward major donors and high-net-worth supporters. 
• Develop tailored engagement plans and exceptional supporter journeys to maximise donor retention and giving. 
• Lead and oversee trust and foundation fundraising, including funding applications, reporting and funder stewardship. 
• Provide strategic oversight of marketing and communications activity, ensuring alignment with fundraising objectives.
• Strengthen the Foundation's case for support and develop compelling fundraising communications and storytelling.
• Build and engage a network of ambassadors to expand awareness, advocacy and supporter engagement. 
• Use data, insight and technology to improve fundraising performance and supporter engagement. 
• Explore innovative approaches, including digital tools and AI, to enhance fundraising effectiveness. 
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, trustees and external stakeholders to maximise fundraising opportunities. 

Key Requirements

• Proven experience in a senior fundraising role with a track record of delivering income growth. 
• Strong experience in one or more of the following areas: Major Donors, Individual Giving, Trusts & Foundations or high-value fundraising.
• Experience developing or scaling fundraising functions within a growing organisation. 
• Excellent relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills. 
• Strong understanding of supporter stewardship and fundraising best practice. 
• A strategic mindset with the ability to translate ambition into delivery. 
• Outstanding communication and storytelling skills. 
• Entrepreneurial, proactive and comfortable working in an evolving environment. 
• Data-driven with strong analytical and decision-making abilities.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

The Harlequinns Foundation is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital staus or pregnancy and maternity.

Head of Alumni Engagement & Operations with Kingston University
£60,996 (negotiable) | Full-time (37 hours) | Hybrid working | Kingston upon Thames
 

Charity People is delighted to be partnering with Kingston University to recruit their next Head of Alumni Engagement & Operations.

Kingston University has spent over 125 years transforming lives through education, innovation and opportunity. With TEF Gold recognition across the board, and a Town House Strategy that's rewriting what a modern education looks like, we are focused on helping students develop the skills, networks and experiences to thrive throughout their careers. Integral to this ambition is our global community of more than 280,000 alumni, who's futures have been shaped by the university.

As Head of Alumni Engagement & Operation, part of the senior leadership team of our Development, Alumni Relations and Engagement (DARE) team, you will help us build lifelong relationships with our alumni to support future growth and success.

About the role:

We have a 3-year strategy in place to develop alumni engagement, increase participation and embed philanthropy more deeply across the University, with full support of senior leadership across the board. This is a fantastic opportunity to join our growing team and work with senior stakeholders across the University, to champion the role alumni can play in student success, employability, mentoring, partnerships and philanthropy, and develop a lifelong alumni offer.

Reporting in to the Director of DARE, you'll lead a broad portfolio including alumni communications, events, volunteering, individual giving, CRM, data insight and operational delivery.

About you:

We're looking for someone who understands the power of communities and relationships.

This is a broad leadership role spanning alumni engagement, communications, volunteering, individual giving, CRM, data insight and operational delivery. While experience within alumni relations or advancement in higher education would be valuable, we're equally interested in hearing from candidates from the charity, membership, fundraising, supporter engagement or relationship management sectors. What matters most is your ability to build communities, create meaningful engagement opportunities, use insight to drive decision-making and inspire people to connect with a shared purpose.

You'll be strategic enough to shape the future direction of alumni engagement at Kingston, whilst remaining hands-on enough to build relationships, spot opportunities and bring colleagues and stakeholders with you.

You'll bring:

• Experience developing and delivering successful alumni engagement, advancement, membership, supporter engagement or relationship-management programmes.

• A track record of building communities, growing participation and creating meaningful engagement opportunities
• Strong leadership skills and experience developing high-performing teams
• Confidence using insight, data and CRM systems to inform strategy and decision-making
• Experience overseeing communications, events, volunteering, supporter engagement or related activities
• An understanding of how long-term relationships can lead to advocacy, mentoring, volunteering, partnerships and giving

Most importantly, you'll believe that alumni engagement is about much more than communications and events. You'll be excited by the opportunity to help graduates become mentors, volunteers, advocates, partners and lifelong supporters of the University.

Benefits include

• Generous annual leave entitlement
• Excellent pension scheme
• Hybrid working (with a minimum of 50% of time spent on campus)
• Access to professional development opportunities
• A supportive and inclusive working environment
• The opportunity to shape a high-profile function at one of London's leading universities

Key Dates:

• Closing date: 9th September 2026 - we encourage not delaying your application.
• Interviews: 28th and 30th September 2026 (in person)

How to apply

Charity People are managing this search on behalf of Kingston University.

In the first instance, please send your CV to Glen at Charity People. If your profile matches what we're looking for, we'll be in touch with the full candidate pack and further details about the recruitment process.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. Please inform us if you require any assistance or adjustment to help ensure the application process works for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

UK Internal Communications & Engagement Partner

Contract type: 15-month Fixed Term Contract, Full-time (35 hours per week)

Location: London, UK

UK hybrid working – a minimum of 40% of working time is spent face-to-face (London office, external meetings or travel), this amounts to a minimum of 2 days per week and the remaining 60% you can be based at home.

Salary: £47,423 per year with excellent benefits

*We offer competitive, market-aligned salaries based on the grade and scope of each role. Roles are offered at the advertised starting salary, with any exceptions considered only in exceptional circumstances. 

Change starts with water. Change starts with you.

Every day, millions of people live without clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid exists to change that – for everyone, everywhere. Join us, and your energy will help unlock people’s potential and create a fairer future.

About WaterAid

We’re a global federation driven by one vision: a world where everyone, everywhere has clean water, sanitation and hygiene by 2030. Powered by our values of Respect, Accountability, Courage, Collaboration, Integrity and Innovation, we work alongside communities, partners and supporters to make change happen.

About the role

A role where you will partner with UK senior leaders, teams, and employee-led groups to develop and execute strategic internal communications and engagement activities that drive delivery of our mission, strengthen organisational capability in communication, and help shape our employee experience.

Serve as the primary communications and engagement partner across the UK, providing proactive partnering, shaping key messages, and creating meaningful opportunities that connect colleagues to purpose, strategy, and each other. Champion diversity, equity and empowerment (DEE) through initiatives that celebrate our rich cultural diversity, promote inclusion, and help build a workplace where everyone can thrive.

In this role, you will:

Internal Communication & Employee Engagement:

• Develop and manage the UK staff communications plan and calendar - ensure alignment with global and wider WaterAid UK plans, activating WAUK and global priorities and initiatives at a local level.
• Manage all UK internal communications support requests - partnering UK based leaders and teams to advise on communications plans and channels.
• Manage key UK internal communications channels, including the UK country pages on the global intranet (The Spring) and the UK Connect Teams space.
• Business partners the UK Head of People to advise and review communications for risk and clarity.
• Business partner UK based employee groups (Staff Representation Group and Diversity Group), advising and supporting on communication/messaging, acting as a trusted advisor.
• Provide UK Functional Directors with advisory communications support for significant strategic initiatives.
• Lead for reactive/crisis internal communications support in the UK.

Projects

• Design, project management and delivery of WaterAiders Week in the UK, including events such as the UK WaterAiders Fair.
• Key communications partner for change management projects that span UK hosted and financed roles.
• Design, content creation and support communication and staff engagement of the office move from 20 Canada Square to our new premises.
• Activating communication on the employee engagement survey in the UK, in alignment with global communications.

Requirements

To be successful, you will need:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Experience of having worked and successfully impacted outcomes in an internal communication and engagement role.
• Demonstrable branding and design capability.
• Understands employee experience concepts.
• Project management experience.
• Designing engaging and impactful communication
• Experience of using and designing in SharePoint.
• Has used MS office suite, with a strong skill in PowerPoint.
• A demonstrated ability to work in a style that reflects WaterAid’s values of Respect, Accountability, Courage, Collaboration, Integrity, and Innovation.

Although not essential, we’d prefer you to have:

• Demonstrable experience of working in a communication, engagement role within a People & Organisational Development team.
• Experience of working with staff resource groups.
• Additional language skills such as French, Spanish or Portuguese 

Closing date: Applications close 12:00 PM UK time on 17th August 2026. Interviews are expected to take place the week commencing 27th August 2026.

How to apply: Click Apply to complete the pre-screening question and upload your CV.

Can I use Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in my application?

At WaterAid, we strongly advise against using AI technology at any stage of the recruitment process. Our goal is to ensure a fair and transparent process that provides every applicant with an equal opportunity to succeed. We value hearing about your unique experiences and perspectives in your application, and, if shortlisted, during the interview as well.

Pre‑employment screening

To apply for this role, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the respective country. All pre-employment checks will be carried out according to local law and WaterAid’s Safer Recruitment policy. All UK based roles require a basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Benefits

• 36days’ holiday (this includes 8 Bank Holidays)

• Option to buy an extra 5days’ annual leave
• Employer pension contribution up to 10%
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Season ticket loan
• Free annual eye tests
• ‘Give as you Earn’ charitable giving scheme
• Enhanced parental leave (maternity, adoption/surrogacy, shared parental and paternity)
• Sabbaticals (after qualifying period)
• Two paid volunteer day each year

As part of our annual leave policy, all employees receive three additional days of annual leave on top of their standard allocation of 25 days. These days are designated to cover the period when our UK office closes at the end of the calendar year, allowing all UK WaterAiders to take a well-deserved break.

These days are automatically scheduled and cannot be changed or moved. Annual leave is accrued based on your start date. If sufficient leave has not been accrued by the time of the closure, the 3 days will be taken as unpaid leave or pro-rated, depending on your circumstances.

Our Committment

Our People Promise

We will work with passion and focus to make sure everyone everywhere has clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid is a place of purpose – where people have a real commitment and shared responsibility for the impact we have. We are a global community with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, motivated by inspiring, stimulating work. We are determined to be a place where people feel safe and able to contribute their voice and truly live our values.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions, ways of life and status. This includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, caste, colour, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, disability status, neurodiversity, age, marital and family status, sexual orientation and gender identity, health status, place of residence, economic and social situation.

Safeguarding

We are committed to protecting everyone we come into contact with. We have a zero- tolerance approach to abuse of power, privilege or trust across our global work, and to any form of inappropriate behaviour, discrimination, abuse, bullying, harassment, or exploitation. Safeguarding the people and communities we work with, our staff, volunteers and anyone working on our behalf is our top priority, and we take our responsibilities extremely seriously. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks (which can include counterterrorism, safeguarding and criminal records checks).

Together, we’ll change the world through water.

Join us and be part of the change!

Location: Remote with regular travel to multiple locations (including Head Office in London)
Contract Type: Full-Time, Standard Contract
Reports to: Executive Headteacher
Responsible for: Curriculum Leads and Teaching Staff
Start Date: 4th January 2027 

Please note: Applicants who successfully pass the initial CV screening will be required to submit a full Equal Education Academy application form in line with KCSIE statutory guidance prior to formal shortlisting and interview.

Interview schedule: 

• Online interview (45mins) - Friday 28th August 2026.

• In-Person Assessment Day (London) - Friday 11th September 2026.

About Equal Education Academy (EEA)

Equal Education is excited to launch a new online academy for Key Stage 4 students, accredited under the DfE’s Online Education Accreditation Scheme (OEAS). We deliver high-quality alternative education tailored for learners facing barriers to education or with complex needs. This includes young people with SEND, SEMH needs, interrupted schooling, Children Looked After, and those requiring specialist or alternative provision.

Guided by our values of Belong, Empower and Aspire, we provide a safe, inclusive, and aspirational environment. We align with DfE guidance and aim to meet OEAS standards, ensuring that safeguarding, particularly online, is the foundation of our culture.

Purpose of the Role

The Head of Centre will provide strategic and operational leadership for Equal Education Academy, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, inclusive, and trauma-informed online provision. Serving as the Academy’s Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), the postholder will embed safeguarding, inclusion, and wellbeing into all organisational decision-making.

Key responsibilities include leading SEND and safeguarding strategy (including overseeing the Single Central Record)  delivering high-impact staff training, and driving rigorous quality assurance by monitoring and reviewing teaching and learning practices. 

Working collaboratively across the Academy and the wider Equal Education Limited group, the Head of Centre will serve as a vital operational bridge, facilitating seamless collaboration and synergy between Equal Education Academy and Equal Education Limited. Operating at the intersection of both entities, the post-holder is uniquely positioned to identify and leverage cross-group resources, optimising them to drive the growth and development of the Academy. By championing alignment across the ecosystem, this pivotal role ensures that the Academy’s functions, team, and strategic objectives are seamlessly integrated within the wider organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Quality of Education

• Support the Executive Headteacher in setting the Academy’s strategic direction and ensuring compliance with OEAS/DfE standards.

• Monitor and review teaching and learning across the Academy, using lesson observations, work scrutiny, and data analysis to drive pedagogical improvement.

• Contribute to the Academy Improvement Plan and lead on inspection readiness and quality assurance activities.

• Lead on developing and implementing a program of CPD and training for new staff. Ensuring the team is aligned under the vision and values of the EE Academy.

• Facilitate operational synergy between Equal Education Academy and Equal Education Limited, leveraging group resources to optimise performance.

2. SEND Leadership (SENCO)

• Coordinate all SEND provision, ensuring the identification, assessment, and effective support of learners with complex needs.

• Oversee EHCP management, annual reviews, and the development of targeted Individual Learning Plans (ILPs).

• Oversee PEP management for Looked After Children

• Champion inclusive pedagogy, ensuring all staff adopt trauma-informed and adaptive teaching strategies.

• Manage multi-agency collaboration with families, local authorities, and external professionals to secure positive learner outcomes.

3. Safeguarding and Wellbeing (DSL)

• Serve as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), maintaining oversight of all safeguarding systems, referrals, and online safety protocols.

• Ensure policies remain compliant with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) and best practice.

• Promote a culture of vigilance, ensuring learner wellbeing, attendance, and emotional safety are central to all Academy functions.

• Lead on multi-agency safeguarding processes and provide expert advice to the leadership team.

4. Leadership & Staff Development

• Design and deliver high-impact staff training programs, specifically focusing on safeguarding, online pedagogy, SEND frameworks, and inclusive, trauma-informed practice.

• Lead staff appraisal, coaching, and professional development to ensure high standards of accountability and growth.

• Foster a collaborative, reflective culture, supporting recruitment, induction, and retention.

• Support learner engagement, attendance and successful transition pathways

• Contribute to self-evaluation and school improvement activities

5. Partnership Working, Influence and Professional Representation

• Build and maintain effective relationships with internal stakeholders to drive seamless integration between Equal Education Academy and the wider Equal Education Limited group.Work closely with the Executive Headteacher, Group CEO and relevant members of operational teams to ensure effective collaboration across the group. 

• Develop and sustain effective partnerships with families, schools, local authorities, virtual schools, and external agencies.

• Support policy development, implementation, and review.

• Represent Equal Education at professional meetings, conferences, and external forums.

• Undertake any other duties reasonably directed by the Headteacher or Executive Headteacher.

• Contribute to strategic planning and organisational development, effectively pitching ideas and challenging the status quo.

• Ability to constructively and professionally challenge colleagues and stakeholders at all levels, including leadership as necessary, in the interest of managing risk and developing a quality service offering.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

• National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCO). 

• Significant (3 years minimum) senior leadership experience in a school, AP, SEND, or online setting within the last year. 

• Proven experience in designing and delivering whole-school staff training.

• Extensive (1 year minimum) experience as a DSL (safeguarding) and SENCO (SEND provision).

• Deep understanding of KCSIE, the SEND Code of Practice, and OEAS/DfE requirements.

• Experience in reviewing teaching and learning to drive quality improvement.

• Significant experience supporting children and young people with barriers to learning and/or emerging or complex needs, including those with SEND, SEMH needs, interrupted education, Children Looked After, and learners requiring specialist or alternative provision.

• Significant experience supporting learners with EHCPs and complex needs, while coordinating multi-agency support and collaborating effectively with local authorities, schools, and external agencies.

• Experience contributing to quality assurance, school improvement or inspection readiness activities. 

Skills and Attributes

• Strong strategic, operational and project management skills

  • Ability to manage complex projects in an organised manner, develop project plans with effective tracking (e.g. Project Initiation documents, gantt charts,   reporting on key metrics, meeting key milestones and working to budgets). 

  • Ability to lead projects and processes in a collaborative way, identifying and engaging key stakeholders to ensure efficiency and avoid duplication of work across a group business structure. 

  • Demonstrates a commercial mindset, with the ability to articulate business cases, work effectively with budgets and interpret information effectively. 

• Excellent communication: capable of building high-trust relationships with staff, families, and local authorities.

• Resilient, reflective and adaptable. A champion of inclusion: deep commitment to supporting vulnerable learners and EEA’s values.

• Strong organisational skills, data-literate and improvement-focused with the abilities to support and develop colleagues. 

• Analytical mindset, able to challenge own assumptions and adapt based on learnings.

• Up to date educational landscape knowledge and a desire to remain informed of sector shifts and updates.

General

The post-holder will be provided with the technology required to complete their role. Equal Education works exclusively on Apple devices using Google software.

Equal Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All colleagues are expected to share this commitment. The post is subject to Enhanced DBS clearance, right to work in the UK, and two satisfactory professional references (one from the last employer). 

Every young person we support is unique and our team isn’t any different. Our differences are our strength when it comes to providing a tailored, human approach to education. We are proud of our people and provide an environment where everyone can bring their most authentic self to work. 

Our recruitment practices are carried out in line with equal opportunities and all candidates will be reviewed fairly regardless of age, gender reassignment, sex, race, religion, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic.

Hybrid – within commuting distance of one of our campuses in Beckenham, Blackburn, Birmingham, Bradford, Bristol, Doncaster or Redcar

Lead communications and engagement for a nationally influential organisation transforming teacher and leader development.

About us

The National Institute of Teaching (NIoT) has an unswerving commitment to high-quality, evidence-informed teacher education and is on a mission to improve the quality of teacher and leader development across the system.

About the role

The National Institute of Teaching is looking for an exceptional Head of Communications and Engagement to lead how we tell our story, build our reputation and deepen our relationships across the education sector. Guided by our belief that teaching is a fundamental societal good, a privilege and a responsibility, this is a senior, strategic role at the heart of an ambitious organisation working to improve the quality of teacher and leader development at system level. You will shape a clear and compelling organisational narrative, lead integrated communications and engagement activity, and act as the NIoT’s main link with the press, ensuring our voice is credible, consistent and influential with schools, trusts, policymakers, partners, funders, journalists, the media and the wider public.

You will bring outstanding judgement, creativity and communication expertise, with the ability to translate complex ideas into messages that move people to understand, trust and act. Working closely with the Executive Director of Partnerships, the CEO and senior colleagues across research, programmes, recruitment marketing, impact and policy, you will help position the NIoT as a distinctive, evidence-informed and school-led organisation with growing national reach and influence.

This is a hybrid role, with an expectation that the postholder will work from the office at least once a fortnight, and more frequently where required to meet business needs. The role also involves national travel, which may include overnight stays.

What we’re looking for:

• A senior communications and engagement professional with significant experience of strategic leadership, ideally in education, public policy, charity, higher education or another mission-led environment.
• Exceptional written, verbal and editorial skills, with a talent for conveying complex, evidence-informed ideas clearly, accurately and compellingly for different audiences.
• Proven ability to develop organisational narratives, lead brand and reputation activity, and maintain clear, consistent messaging across channels and teams.
• Strong PR and press experience, including media relations, journalist engagement, press office processes, handling enquiries, drafting press statements and identifying proactive opportunities to build profile and influence.
• The confidence and credibility to advise senior leaders, influence colleagues, manage sensitive issues and represent the organisation externally.
• A collaborative, values-led leader who can build a high-performing team, strengthen ways of working and support colleagues to communicate with clarity and confidence.
• A commitment to inclusive, accessible and audience-centred communications that help the NIoT reach diverse school communities and national audiences.

Key benefits

• Generous annual leave – 27 days’ holiday a year (plus 8 bank holidays), rising to 33 days after five years’ service.
• Flexible working – we offer flexible start and end working times, with hybrid working in place for all roles.
• Pension – entry to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Salary sacrifice schemes – we offer salary sacrifice schemes for bikes, cars and tech!
• Lifestyle benefits – we offer discounts on gyms, cinema, retail and much more!
• Parenthood leave – we offer above the statutory minimum for maternity, adoption and paternity leave.
• Working environment – we have a stimulating, supportive and rewarding working environment with a dedicated team of like-minded professionals.
• Support – our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) provides confidential support for employees on personal or work-related matters.
• Development – we fully support the development of our staff and ensure that you have a high level of continuous professional development.

We think a wide range of different work and educational experiences could support you to be successful in this role. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries, and are committed to employing a team that has diverse skills, experiences and abilities.

For more information and to apply, please visit our vacancies page.

Closing date: 31 August 2026.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications.

As a condition of employment, this post requires a satisfactory enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) with a Children’s Barred List Check and an Occupational Health Check.