Head of programme jobs in withington, greater manchester

Are you an experienced product manager with excellent people leadership skills, seeking a challenge where you can make a real difference?

�� Location: Hybrid (expectation to travel for team days/as business requires)

⌚ Contract Type: Permanent, 35 hours per week

�� Salary: Starting from £64,866.26 - £71,352.88 dependant on experience

What is the Head of Product?

The Head of Product Management is a newly established role at MSI UK, responsible for driving product management through strategic business analysis and leadership. You will have extensive experience in this, or a similar role applying your product leadership experience to shape digital strategy, develop impactful healthcare products, and guide a team of 6 Product Owners.

The vision for Product Management in MSI UK as a healthcare organisation ensures digital, data, and technology solutions are strategically aligned, user-centric, and drive operational efficiency. This is a unique opportunity to apply your product expertise in a growing and critical healthcare organisation, driving the strategy and development of core digital products. In this role, you will shape impactful solutions that support over 110,000 clients annually.

The Head of Product Management will lead the Product Function with an iterative and agile approach, optimising operations by streamlining manual and complex processes. This role focuses on delivering intuitive, user-friendly digital platforms that enhance the client experience and drive business efficiency.

What can we offer you?

• �� Expenses incurred while traveling outside your base location will be reimbursed.
• �� Birthday Bonus with an additional day of annual leave dedicated to celebrating your birthday and long service recognition rewards programme
• �� Perks and discounts at over 4000 retail and hospitality outlets through the Blue Light Card

In addition to the perks outlined above, there are many more benefits alongside what is written above for you to enjoy. Find out more during your interview!

What you’ll be doing:

The Head of Product Management will drive the growth and maturity of a newly established team, ensuring digital products and services support healthcare delivery. This role shapes and executes a product strategy aligned with MSI UK's mission to enhance client care through innovative, user-centered, and data-driven digital solutions.

Responsibilities include:

• Define and communicate a product vision that aligns with strategic healthcare objectives.
• Lead the development, launch, and continuous improvement of digital solutions.
• Build partnerships, negotiate terms, and ensure vendors meet expectations and legal standards.
• Partner with internal and external teams to ensure alignment and adoption of digital products.
• Develop, motivate, and mentor a cross-functional team of product owners.
• Lead user research and leverage health industry trends and emerging technologies.
• Use data analytics to monitor performance and derive actionable insights.
• Provide clear reporting on product progress and outcomes to key stakeholders.
• Work with stakeholders to understand strategies and lead the development of digital roadmaps.
• Stay updated with health industry and technology innovations.
• Reporting: Implement and deliver regular reporting on product development progress and performance metrics.
• Support demand management and technical project management to ensure successful delivery of digital products and enhancements.

What we’re looking for:

• Extensive experience in product management and business analysis in agile environments, ideally in healthcare or charity sectors.
• Strong collaboration skills to foster cross-functional teamwork and a culture of test-and-learn innovation.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, able to engage stakeholders at all levels and translate complex problems into digital/data solutions.
• User-centric mindset with the ability to balance diverse stakeholder needs (e.g., clients, clinicians, operations).
• Proven leadership of cross-functional teams, with hands-on capability when needed.
• Experienced line manager with a focus on coaching, performance management, and team development.
• Strategic and analytical thinker with a passion for innovation and problem solving.
• Skilled in vendor and partner management and experienced in driving digital/product frameworks and continuous improvement.
• Strong prioritisation skills across diverse workstreams, with financial acumen and stakeholder management.
• Proven ability to measure and improve product performance (e.g., SLA, usage, scalability).
• Deep understanding of agile product lifecycle and technical concepts, able to communicate effectively with non-technical audiences.
• Knowledgeable in current/emerging digital tech, particularly AI, and how it supports strategic goals.
• Willingness to work flexibly, including occasional weekends and national travel.

We're on the lookout for a seasoned pro who knows their way around the software development and project management lifecycle—if that sounds like you, keep reading!

�� Location: Hybrid (expectation to travel for team days/as business requires)

⌚ Contract Type: Permanent, 35 hours per week

�� Salary: Starting from £64,866.26 - £71,352.88 dependent on experience and location

What is a Head of Digital, Data and Technology? 

As the Head of DDaT Portfolio Delivery, you will leverage your extensive experience and deep understanding of the technical project lifecycle and key delivery methodologies. Proficiency in Agile, Scrum, DevOps, and Waterfall frameworks is essential for effective governance and optimisation of complex project portfolios.

This role offers a unique opportunity to apply your skills and passion for change in a growing healthcare organisation, supporting over 110,000 clients annually.

You will collaborate closely with various heads of departments and colleagues across the business to ensure all DDaT deliveries are strategically aligned, rigorously tested, delivered on time and within budget, and fully adopted by the business. This role drives seamless execution from small enhancements to large-scale projects, enhancing the client journey, operational efficiency, and business impact for MSI UK.

What can we offer you?

• �� Expenses incurred while traveling outside your base location will be reimbursed.
• �� Birthday Bonus with an additional day of annual leave dedicated to celebrating your birthday and long service recognition rewards programme 
• �� Perks and discounts at over 4000 retail and hospitality outlets through the Blue Light Card

In addition to the perks outlined above, there are many more benefits alongside what is written above for you to enjoy. Find out more during your interview!

What you’ll be doing:

The role of the Head of DDaT Portfolio Delivery will have:

• Deep understanding of software development, IT infrastructure, DevOps, Agile, and Scrum practices, with experience in AI, ML, RPA, UX, design, end-user testing, and requirements gathering.
• Ability to analyse complex problems, devise solutions, and make informed decisions under pressure.
• Identify risks, implement mitigation strategies, and ensure projects stay on track.
• Ensure deliverables meet standards through effective QA and testing protocols, with continuous monitoring and evaluation.
• Comprehensive understanding of project lifecycles, tailoring Agile, Scrum, and Waterfall methodologies for timely, budget-compliant delivery.
• Capable of troubleshooting technical issues and understanding software or product development intricacies.
• Expertise in system architecture, DevOps, risk management, ITIL, technical documentation, and programming languages.
• Oversee testing quality internally and with vendors, ensuring robust methodologies and evidence collection.
• Familiarity with technologies used, capable of troubleshooting technical issues.

What we’re looking for:

• Extensive experience delivering complex digital and tech-enabled programs, with deep knowledge of healthcare technology ecosystems (e.g., NHS Digital, EPRs, FHIR, GDPR, DSPT).
• Proficient in Agile, Scrum, DevOps, SAFe, Lean, and Waterfall, ensuring efficient delivery across cross-functional teams.
• Proven leadership in digital/data/technology strategy, including authoring and presenting strategic documents to executive teams.
• Skilled in developing and deploying client-facing digital solutions (e.g., portals, remote monitoring, digital health apps), ensuring compliance, usability, and smooth go-live transitions.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and vendor management skills, including RFPs and procurement via NHS frameworks (G-Cloud, Digital Marketplace).
• Expertise in demand and capacity planning for DDaT, aligning delivery with business needs, compliance, and budget.
• Experienced in BI and data strategy projects, including integration, analytics, automation, and emerging technologies (RPA, AI, ML).
• Able to gather technical requirements aligned with business goals and system capabilities.
• Skilled in measuring ROI on tech initiatives using KPIs and cost-benefit analysis.
• Strong project management skills across the full lifecycle, blending PRINCE2 governance with Agile and Waterfall delivery.
• Experienced in Agile product development—from strategy to launch—and translating complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
• Deep knowledge of emerging digital trends and their strategic applications.
• Flexible to travel and work outside core hours as required.
• Established and led PMO practices to ensure strategic alignment, risk management, resource planning, and continuous improvement.

Reporting to: Director of Policy and Engagement 

Direct reports: 1 x Scotland Policy and Public Affairs Manager and Legislative Lead, 2 x Policy and Public Affairs Officers, 1 x England Policy and Public Affairs Manager 

Location of work: Home-based. The post holder must be easily and quickly commutable to London and will require frequent meetings in London. The role may involve some irregular travel throughout England and Scotland to attend events and meetings.

Contract type: Full-time, 35 hours per week,  flexible hours may be considered. The role may require occasional evening and weekend work 

Contract Length: Permanent 

Salary: £54,500 - £56,500 

BACKGROUND

Our work has never been more needed. The latest research suggesting that the number of children and young people at risk of hunger has rocketed to 2.6 million* means that one in five children don't have enough to eat.When a child is too hungry to learn, when they’re aching for something to eat, they can’t concentrate. They can’t absorb information. Big feelings and worries can be impossible to control. They fall behind in their studies.

Magic Breakfast provide a nutritious and filling breakfast to over 300,000 children and young people every school day. We work with schools in areas of high disadvantage, helping staff target the children most in need without barrier or stigma.  Magic Breakfast are ambitious to grow our impact to remove hunger as a barrier to learning for all children and young people in the UK.

 This is an exciting time to join Magic Breakfast if you wish to make a difference to the lives of children as we work to influence both policy implementation, with the national rollout of primary-aged universal school breakfast, and legislative change, through the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill. There has also been commitment from the Scottish Government for a national breakfast scheme and we are seeking to expand our advocacy work into Wales. Magic Breakfast’s influence will be instrumental to ensuring school breakfasts are implemented in a way that is hunger-focused and barrier free.

In addition, thousands of secondary school children are at risk of losing their free school breakfasts from September next year. For many of these students, this is their only opportunity to have a nutritious meal before facing a demanding school day, including taking exams.  And for the very youngest, we know that the disadvantage gap begins before they even reach reception. With the Government commitment to another 100,000 places in school-based nurseries, early years is also a critical part of our advocacy work.

 Being part of the work of Magic Breakfast is your chance, together with parents, teachers and people across the UK, to demonstrate the power of school breakfasts and to shape the way forward to end morning hunger for good.

*Food Foundation Insecurity Tracker Jan 2025

JOB PURPOSE

The Head of Policy & Public Affairs will review, develop and implement our advocacy strategy and lead a team to influence the devolved legislatures across the UK to address child morning hunger, with a view to the underlying systemic causes of child poverty and hunger, by driving change through policy and legislation. The role operates at our ‘Head of level’ which is the most senior operational specialist level and provides both operational and strategic leadership.

This role will also provide wider leadership across the charity and input into organisational strategy development and planning as part of the Core Management Group. This role will ensure that the Policy and Public Affairs function is aligned to the wider strategic aims and outcomes of Magic Breakfast as well as the internal operational systems and delivery.

The strategic leadership will ensure an external and long term view, with an outward looking and forward thinking approach that builds thought leadership, relationships and partnerships, with positioning to anticipate and build on new opportunities to end child morning hunger for good.

It will require an experienced Policy and Public Affairs professional, with significant experience of high impact and demonstrable outcomes at a senior level in the field. The postholder will lead the policy and public affairs team to influence the Early Adopters Scheme, the national rollout of primary school breakfast provision in England and breakfast legislation in the Children’s Wellbeing Bill (CWB).

They will also develop, guide and lead plans to influence the Scottish government, particularly in the run up to the election in May 2026 and the influencing of manifestos; and will lead Magic Breakfast’s upcoming influencing work in Wales. 

In the external leadership that the role provides they will build relationships with politicians, political influencers, special advisors and civil servants to establish long-term, sustainable solutions to child morning hunger in the UK.

As a compassionate, people centric and inspiring leader they will work to enable their team to grow and develop in their skills ensuring they can step away from the detail whilst retaining accountability, build effective resource management and progression pathways. This role may manage external consultants where necessary, and work collaboratively with external organisations to amplify our voice and asks and strengthen our position as a thought leader. 

 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

· Review and define the advocacy strategy for 25/26 in line both with moving political environment and Magic Breakfast’s influencing agenda, considering the systemic barriers to ending child morning hunger for good.

· Develop and maintain close relationships with the Department for Education and other key departments including Department for Health and Social Care and Treasury, to secure hunger and child focus as key priorities for breakfast provision.

· Develop, monitor and evaluate influencing plans for each devolved nation

· Support the development of influencing plans with coalition groups and organisations to influence school breakfast policy, commitments and implementation

· Review policy positions in Wales and Northern Ireland and define our advocacy approach, gaining external insights and analysing available research and data to shape the plan

· Develop a vision for advocacy beyond current demands, considering political appetite and gaining insight from lived experience communities and relevant sectors, to ensure that we are clear on future asks, and can build the foundation towards them.

· Work with Impact and Insights team to define future research needs to meet our longer-term advocacy plans

· Enhance and establish internal processes and ensure good internal information dissemination 

· Work closely with key internal stakeholders to shape advocacy work and support broader organisational objectives

· Embed learnings and develop a fail fast, learn fast culture in the team

· Coach, support and lead direct reports enabling increased professional development, strategic decision making, proactive project management and robust political influencing

· Contribute to and help shape the work of the Core Management Group to ensure ongoing alignment for in year implementation of the strategic plan and create integrated future year plans which meet organisational goals

· Monitor and review KPIs to monitor and measure both team and cross organisational performance, using the results to guide teams and surface learnings

· Assess areas of risk and escalate where necessary and according to policy

· Develop and monitor annual team budgets

General

• Work collaboratively across the organisation, building good working relations and providing ad-hoc support to other teams and members of staff

• Passion and commitment to Magic Breakfast’s aim of alleviating morning hunger as a barrier to learning for children in the UK.

• Help to maintain a positive working environment; keeping the vision of Magic Breakfast at the heart of everything we do. 

• Share Magic Breakfast’s commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion

• Establish and ensure existing Ways of Working are adhered to across team

• Adhere to all Magic Breakfast policies and procedures and ensure that all activity is compliant with current legislation, GDPR, data protection and child safeguarding requirements

• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the role

 PERSON SPECIFICATION

Knowledge and Experience

Essential

· Strategy development, demonstrating a deep understanding of how to craft, implement, and evolve strategies that align to operational outcomes for the Policy and Advocacy function as well as enabling our organisation strategy in our aim to end child morning for good.

· Stakeholder management and partnership building with extensive experience of engaging, influencing, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including senior political figures, policymakers, funders and sector leaders.

· Ability to confidently and flexibly deal with volatile political environment, anticipating potential developments and adapting to emerging situations to meet aims

· Highly experienced in developing and shaping policy positions, using insights, research and data sets to inform and guide decision-making

· Understanding and experience of the role of the broader external environment to shape policy asks and political influencing, including the implications of a policy ask in one sector on another.

· Experience of influencing key political events such as budgets, national elections and the legislative process.

· Significant experience of coaching, supporting and managing the development of a team, with the ability to make difficult decisions and challenge where needed to deliver the organisational strategy.

Desirable

· Experience of education, food insecurity, child poverty or childcare sectors

Skills and Abilities

• Effective leadership mentality with confidence to step away from the detail and delegate responsibility, enabling others to use judgements, make decisions, learn from failures and continuously improve.

• Analytical and evidence based decision making, with the ability to turn data and analysis into policy and advocacy related recommendations or outcomes for action.

• Effective planning, prioritisation and project management skills. Able to organise self and team to meet planned objectives and strategic direction with the ability to pivot and manage the unexpected.

• Strong, influential and impactful interpersonal and communication skills and to advocate for own specialism, department and Magic Breakfast's mission, effectively conveying the organisation's impact and needs to a wide range of audiences.

• Operational and financial acumen and analysis: understanding and practical application of knowledge as required around funding considerations, budget development and management, risk management, and ensuring systems in place for efficiency by setting and maintaining policy and procedural frameworks.

• An outward looking and forward thinking approach that drives a sense of curiosity, innovation and continuous improvement. Always thinking what can we learn from others, what new developments can be explored and what are the opportunities for the function to improve and grow with others too.

WHAT WE OFFER

At Magic Breakfast we value our employees and work hard to develop offer a supportive, respectful culture which enables everyone to bring their whole self to work.

Please find attached our job pack

APPLICATION PROCCESS

Should you wish to discuss the role before applying please email our People and Culture Team, recruitment @ magicbreakfast. com

Shortlisting - w/c 5th May

Interview 1 - 15th and 16th May

Interview 2 - w/c 21st May

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications are received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.

We’re looking for a self-directed and talented technologist who is passionate about tech for good and how AI can support civil society organisations to achieve their missions.

• 4 days per week
• £52,000 salary FTE
• Remote location
• 1 year fixed term with possibility to extend

We are also recruiting for a Head of Design for AI, and we expect these roles to work closely together alongside our wider CAST team and partners.

Application deadline - Tuesday 6th May 12pm

About CAST

CAST helps people use digital for social good. We're on a mission to create a more responsive, resilient and digitally-enabled social sector by supporting nonprofits to embed digital and design across their services, strategy and governance and working with sector leaders, funders and government to make this happen.

CAST is a ten-year old charity made up of incredibly dedicated designers, technologists, activists and entrepreneurs. Collectively we have deep experience and a great reputation across charity and civil society, design, digital and innovation. 

The past decade has proven how vital digital is to charities, and with it, how important CAST’s work and mission is.

About the role

One of the core areas of CAST’s work is building the capacity of the social sector to respond to the rapid scale advances in AI. The evidence from the Charity Digital Skills Report; Joseph Rowntree's Grassroots and Nonprofits research and our own AI survey shows that charities are unlikely to benefit from - or respond to the challenges of - AI without intentional support and capacity building. To support charities’ (critical) adoption of AI we need to invest in supporting sector-experiments that create demonstrable impact (acting as showcases), working alongside the peer groups, charities and working groups to help move conversations into practical action.

To achieve that, we are looking to recruit a Head of Technical AI Experiments to focus on driving forward this work in a number of different ways:

• Providing direct support to organisations and specific technical advice;
• Building a range of experiments and tools alongside the sector;
• Supporting the design and development of specific programmes, training and interventions that will help shift the sector on AI

Whilst there is a lot of work underway and in the pipeline on AI this role will be expected to shape this work based on their deep experience and knowledge of AI, and support the wider team at CAST to upskill in this area. 

You can find more information about CAST on our website.

What you'll achieve

• Create simple to use AI products and prototypes that meet the needs of the charity sector and their communities; being transparent about how the tools work to build understanding and confidence
• Contribute to the development of an ongoing AI strategy that aligns with CAST's mission and supports the digital transformation of social sector organisations;
• Alongside the Head of Design for AI, lead the design, development, and deployment of AI experiments, tools and resources tailored to the needs of the social sector;
• Provide training, resources and expertise to social sector organisations to build their AI literacy and empower them to leverage AI technologies effectively through both direct coaching and via networks;
• Working with the wider CAST team, contribute to the ongoing development of ethical guidelines for AI use, ensuring compliance with legal standards and promoting responsible AI practices within the sector; 
• Foster partnerships with technology experts, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to advance AI initiatives and share best practices for the sector;
• Stay abreast of emerging AI trends and technologies, assessing their potential impact on the social sector and identifying opportunities for innovation;
• Support the wider CAST team in developing their knowledge and skills on AI, and how we can use AI to best effect within our own work.

Skills and capabilities required

• Proven experience in a senior AI or technology leadership role, ideally with experience of the social sector;
• In-depth knowledge of AI technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, and data analytics.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives that drive technological adoption and innovation.
• Strong understanding of ethical considerations and regulatory requirements related to AI technology.
• High levels of autonomy with extraordinary organisation and communication skills.
• Able to thrive in a distributed team that changes and responds to the needs of the network and charity sector
• A strong commitment to the aims and objectives of CAST.

Benefits

• Working in a dynamic and creative team with an open and supportive culture
• Opportunity to make a positive social impact
• 30 days holiday a year pro rata, plus bank holidays
• Flexible and remote working
• Family Friendly Benefits: we are committed to supporting staff in achieving a sensible work-life balance
• Group personal pension scheme

We’re looking for a self-directed and talented designer who is passionate about tech for good and how AI can support civil society organisations to achieve their missions.

• 4 days per week
• £52,000 salary FTE
• Remote location
• 1 year fixed term with possibility to extend

We are also recruiting for a Head of Technical AI Experiments, and we expect these roles to work closely together alongside our wider CAST team and partners.

Application deadline - Tuesday 6th May 12pm

About CAST

CAST helps people use digital for social good. We're on a mission to create a more responsive, resilient and digitally-enabled social sector by supporting nonprofits to embed digital and design across their services, strategy and governance and working with sector leaders, funders and government to make this happen.

CAST is a ten-year old charity made up of incredibly dedicated designers, technologists, activists and entrepreneurs. Collectively we have deep experience and a great reputation across charity and civil society, design, digital and innovation. 

The past decade has proven how vital digital is to charities, and with it, how important CAST’s work and mission is.

About the role

One of the core areas of CAST’s work is building the capacity of the social sector to respond to the rapid scale advances in AI. The evidence from the Charity Digital Skills Report; Joseph Rowntree's Grassroots and Nonprofits research and our own AI survey shows that charities are unlikely to benefit from - or respond to the challenges of - AI without intentional support and capacity building. To support charities’ (critical) adoption of AI we need to invest in supporting sector-experiments that create demonstrable impact (acting as showcases), working alongside the peer groups, charities and working groups to help move conversations into practical action.

To achieve that, we are looking to recruit a Head of Design for AI to focus on driving forward this work in a number of different ways:

• Blending expertise in AI technologies with human-centered design principles to foster innovation and inclusivity across the social sector;
• Providing direct support to organisations and specific product design advice;
• Designing a range of experiments and tools alongside the sector and CAST team;
• Supporting the design and development of specific programmes, training and interventions that will help shift the sector on AI

Whilst there is a lot of work underway and in the pipeline on AI this role will be expected to shape this work based on their deep experience and knowledge of AI and product design, and support the wider team at CAST to upskill in this area. 

You can find more information about CAST on our website.

What you'll achieve

• Develop and execute a vision for the integration of AI into CAST’s design methodologies, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s mission and values.
• Alongside the Head of Technical AI Experiments, lead the design, development, and deployment of AI experiments, tools and resources tailored to the needs of the social sector;
• Working with the wider CAST team, contribute to the ongoing development of ethical design principles in AI applications, ensuring transparency, accessibility, and fairness in all outputs;
• Work closely with charities, community groups, funders, and tech partners to co-design AI solutions that address real-world challenges and drive meaningful outcomes;
• Support social sector organisations to develop the skills and resources needed to design and implement AI systems effectively, fostering confidence and innovation through both direct coaching and via networks;
• Stay ahead of developments in AI and design thinking, identifying opportunities to incorporate emerging trends and technologies into CAST’s initiatives;
• Support the wider CAST team in developing their knowledge and skills on AI and human-centred design, and how we can use AI to best effect within our own work;

Skills and capabilities required

• Demonstrated expertise in human-centered design, particularly in projects involving AI technologies or data-driven solutions; 
• Proven leadership experience in design and innovation, preferably within the social sector;
• Deep understanding of AI principles, including machine learning, natural language processing, and their design implications;
• Strong commitment to ethical design, accessibility, and inclusivity;
• Excellent collaboration and facilitation skills, with the ability to bring together diverse stakeholders to achieve shared goals;
• High levels of autonomy with extraordinary organisation and communication skills.
• Able to thrive in a distributed team that changes and responds to the needs of the network and charity sector
• A strong commitment to the aims and objectives of CAST.

Benefits

• Working in a dynamic and creative team with an open and supportive culture
• Opportunity to make a positive social impact
• 30 days holiday a year (pro rata), plus bank holidays
• Flexible and remote working
• Family Friendly Benefits: we are committed to supporting staff in achieving a sensible work-life balance
• Group personal pension scheme

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, with around 300 people diagnosed every day. The Macular Society is the only charity determined to beat the fear and isolation of macular disease with world class research, and the best advice and support.

To support people affected by macular disease now, the Macular Society provides a range of support, information and services. Our research programme is focused on finding new treatments and a cure to Beat Macular Disease forever.

This exciting role is responsible for delivering income from a range of donors and prospects, with a focus on trusts and foundations, lottery and statutory sources, as well as HNWI. We are looking for an ambitious and strategic fundraiser with a proven track record of raising significant funds from charitable trusts and foundations, lottery and statutory sources as well as HNWI, who, alongside our existing team, will help to grow and develop this area of fundraising for the Macular Society. The post holder will have a proven eye for detail, an analytical nature, first class relationship management skills and a flair for writing successful applications.

In return, we provide a great working culture – we do something worthwhile and are proud to work together to Beat Macular Disease – as recognised by our inclusion in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2023 list. 

We offer flexible working options, 26 days annual leave, rising to 27 after one years’ service, the ability to buy or sell annual leave, supportive family policies, and 6% pension contribution.

We are passionate about treating people fairly and as equals, doing so is instinctive to us. To Beat Macular Disease for all we know we have work to do. That’s why we are keen to hear from people of all backgrounds who have the skills and experience we are looking for. We particularly encourage applications from people from under-represented groups, to help ensure what we do and how we do it is inclusive – for everyone.

The eoa exists to grow and strengthen employee ownership as a force for powering fairer livelihoods, stronger businesses, and a more resilient economy. With 800+ member businesses and a community of thousands of employee owners, we are the national voice for employee ownership in the UK.

Our refreshed strategy is focused on accelerating impact through people powered growth. We’re here to make employee ownership a mainstream business model choice—by expanding the sector, setting the standard for excellence, and building a connected, values-led ecosystem. We do this through sharp insight, high-impact advocacy, and a thriving member experience.

For founders and business owners exploring employee ownership, or for leaders and managers building Great EO businesses, the eoa offers tools, knowledge, experience and connection. We facilitate powerful peer learning, codify what works, and champion the stories that inspire others to choose EO.

Together with our members, we’re creating the conditions for employee ownership to thrive—seizing the political, cultural, and digital opportunities ahead. and this is where you come in.

As Director of Partnerships and Growth, you’ll be the driving force behind the eoa’s external influence and reach. you’ll lead our advocacy and external affairs strategy, build meaningful partnerships, and deliver powerful events programmes that accelerate adoption of Great EO. You’ll also shape the narrative—ensuring our insights, policy recommendations and thought leadership land with impact.

This is a high-profile, senior leadership role at a pivotal time for the EO community. It calls for someone with a track record in advocacy or external affairs, strong commercial acumen, and the ability to lead high-performing teams. It also needs a big-picture thinker - someone who can champion EO, influence change, and help us build a more inclusive, resilient economy.

If you’re excited about the opportunity to grow an economy that puts people at the heart of business, we’d love to hear from you.

Role Details

At the heart of this Director of Growth & Advocacy role is the opportunity to shape the external environment for employee ownership, champion the voice of our members, and lead high-impact strategies that grow both our reach and the sector itself.

You’ll lead on policy, advocacy, external affairs and events—crafting compelling narratives, building powerful partnerships, and delivering programmes that drive commercial sustainability and sector-wide change.

From shaping relationships with key stakeholders and securing strategic sponsorships, to overseeing the delivery of thought leadership, content, and events, you’ll ensure that the eoa is not just part of the national conversation—but leading it.

Your ability to influence, convene, and inspire will be critical to removing barriers to employee ownership and unlocking the potential of our £1.7m organisation to deliver even greater impact.

Join us on this exciting journey where your leadership will shape policy, grow influence, and contribute to our mission of unlocking the potential of people, businesses, and the economy through employee ownership.

This role is remote, however regular travel to our HQ in Brough and across the UK is expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead external affairs, collaborating with stakeholders to shape policy, advocacy and best practice that removes barriers and expands EO.
• Establish relationships and secure commercial partnerships and sponsorships, generating revenue to support advocacy, events, and sector growth initiatives.
• Engage key stakeholders to co-produce content that positively influence EO practice and policy and amplify the eoa’s voice in public affairs.
• Oversee delivery of an effective content strategy that delivers our commercial objectives and positions the eoa as the leading EO authority.
• Oversee events programmes, ensuring they drive knowledge-sharing, sector development, and commercial sustainability.
• Represent the eoa at industry forums, policy roundtables, and public affairs events, championing the employee ownership model.
• Collaborate with the Director of Membership & Operations to align advocacy efforts with member needs and engagement.
• Lead and develop high-performing teams, fostering innovation and delivering measurable impact across advocacy, policy, event activities.

Success in this role

Success in this role means having a positive impact on the growth rate, influence and adoption of great EO across the employee ownership sector. Strengthening and expanding stakeholder relationships, driving advocacy impact and securing commercial sustainability through a diverse mix of sponsorships, partnerships will also be indicators of success.

Key outcomes for the role

• Growth of the employee ownership sector. Measured by increased number of EO businesses, heightened sector awareness
• Strengthened corporate engagement. Measured by growth in strategic partnerships, corporate and government engagement
• Strong Commercial Sustainability. Measured by increased sponsorship revenue, secured long-term commercial partnerships
• Increased policy influence. Measured by policy recommendations adopted, increased government engagement
• Enhanced sector insight and intelligence. Measured by utilisation of high-quality data and insights for regular sector related content outputs.
• Development and adoption of best practice. Measured by creation, adoption and promotion of best practice across the EO network.
• Successful events programmes. Measured by iIncreased participation, sponsorship growth, positive feedback.

About you

• Proven expertise in advocacy, public affairs, or policy leadership, ideally within a business, trade body, or membership association.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with experience influencing government, media, and corporate partners.
• Demonstrated ability to drive sectoral or policy change, leading successful advocacy initiatives.
• Strong commercial acumen, with experience in sponsorship acquisition, revenue generation, and developing financially sustainable initiatives.
• Exceptional strategic communication and storytelling skills, able to engage and mobilise diverse audiences.
• Experience in event programme development, ensuring high engagement and sector impact.
• Passion for employee ownership and economic models that promote shared prosperity.
• Innovative, creative, and proactive in problem-solving and strategy execution.
• A confident and transparent leader who fosters collaboration and inclusivity through teamwork.
• Self-aware with emotional intelligence, resilience, and integrity.

Role Summary

• Contract: Permanent
• Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week
• Location: Remote, with regular travel to eoa offices and national events
• Salary & Benefits: £65,000 p/a + 7% Pensions. 30 Days leave + Bank Holidays.
• Reports to: CEO
• Management: TBC

About VODG

The Voluntary Organisations Disability Group (VODG) represents over 130 organisations within the voluntary sector whose work is focused on enabling disabled people of all ages to live the lives they choose. VODG believes that an ambitious, reliable and vibrant voluntary sector that works together is critical to achieving this aim.

VODG’s mission is focused on two key areas – enabling our members to be the best they can and improving the environment in which its members operate. VODG believes that our membership approach and operations should centre around the views of disabled people and be influenced by professional expertise.

Introduction to the role

Reporting to the Head of Membership and Operations, the Business Development and Partnership Manager will play a crucial role in driving sustainable growth and cultivating strategic partnerships that align with the organisation's core mission and values. This newly created position aims to strengthen our expansion efforts and help us adapt to the changing landscape of care and support for disabled people.

We are seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Business Development and Partnership Manager who will lead initiatives to identify, develop, and manage partnerships that can drive significant growth and enhance our market presence. This role will also focus on existing revenue streams and explore new areas for development and growth. The position requires exceptional relationship-building skills and a deep understanding of partnership management. It also requires a strategic approach that blends attention to detail and results-oriented delivery.

The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills to effectively engage with stakeholders at all levels, along with a proven track record of successful partnership management and revenue growth. As we continue with our growth plans, this role will be essential in advancing our organisational goals and objectives while fostering an environment both internally and externally that draws in expertise and insight from beyond our membership.

Purpose of role

The role will:

· Formulate and nurture strategic partnerships with corporate partners and non-profit organisations.

· Enhance the visibility and reputation of VODG among key stakeholders.

· Identify and pursue new business opportunities aligning with VODG’s mission and vision.

· Manage relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.

· Foster collaboration and create synergetic relationships for mutual benefits.

· Assess partnership effectiveness through detailed metrics and feedback.

· Negotiate corporate partnerships and secure commercial sponsorships.

· Build long-term relationships that promote shared goals and lead to the development of new business opportunities.

· Focus on exploring new areas for development and growth.

· Support internal colleagues, as necessary, on partnership grants and awards.

· Coordinate with colleagues for alignment of activities with organisational goals.

Specific responsibilities and duties

Business Development Strategy and Implementation 

· Develop and implement comprehensive business development strategies to identify and secure partnership opportunities. 

· Identify and explore innovative areas for development and growth.

· Set clear goals and objectives to measure the success of business development efforts. Analyse market trends and the competitive landscape to inform partnership strategies.

Partnership Development and Relationship Management 

· Identify and engage potential partners while building and maintaining strong relationships with existing stakeholders. 

· Serve as the main point of contact for key partners, ensuring their needs are met and expectations exceeded. 

Opportunity Identification and Market Research 

· Identify and evaluate new business opportunities and partnerships that align with organisational goals, including new membership opportunities.

· Conduct market research to recognise trends, opportunities, and challenges in the sector, analysing competitor activities to inform strategies.

· Deliver on existing opportunities and identify new ones, including sponsorship activities for events, projects, programmes, work, events and conferences, and smaller strategic roundtables.

Negotiation and Contract Management 

· Lead detailed negotiations for partnership agreements, ensuring favourable terms for both parties, and oversee contract management to ensure compliance and performance monitoring.

Collaboration and Project Management 

· Work closely with internal colleagues to align partnership initiatives with business objectives, managing execution to ensure initiatives align with organisational priorities. 

· Collaborate with internal teams to coordinate campaigns and promotional events effectively.

Performance Tracking and Financial Management 

· Monitor and analyse partnership performance, using data to refine strategies and maximise impact. Prepare regular updates on business development activities and partnership outcomes. 

· Prepare budgets and financial forecasts related to business development activities, monitoring and reporting on the financial performance of initiatives and partnerships.

Networking and Representation 

· Represent the organisation at industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events to promote business development initiatives and cultivate a strong professional network for future partnerships. 

·Engage in community outreach and represent the organisation in public forums to expand its network and promote its mission

Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week​

Location:​Home-based with frequent travel to projects across Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Hartlepool​

Contract:Permanent​

Do you want to work with multiple award-winning charity, FoodCycle? As Regional Manager you will represent, manage and co-ordinate FoodCycle for your allocated regional Projects. Our Projects are spaces where volunteers are empowered to run their own community meals using surplus food.​

You will manage local relationships with supermarkets, volunteer recruitment channels and venues to enable this to happen. As an excellent communicator, you will manage the volunteers at each Project ensuring they are trained, supported and on-message with FoodCycle strategy, ensuring that volunteers are confident enough to self-organise and make a success of their Projects.​

You will have experience of programme planning and delivery, and working with volunteers. You will be experienced in building relationships with a range of stakeholders, and be passionate about food and cooking.​

There will be frequent travel to our projects in the North East, with some evening and weekend work needed to cover our projects. A full driving license and access to a vehicle for work purposes is essential for this rewarding role.​

Benefits: We offer 26.5 days holiday plus bank holidays, and additional holiday for length of service (pro-rata for part-time). Our healthcare package allows staff to claim money back on healthcare bills and includes access to telephone counselling and online GP appointments.​

How to apply:Please upload a CV of no more than two sides, and a covering note/letter of no more than two sides explaining why you are suitable for the role, via our vacancy website.

Deadline for your application:We will be shortlisting and interviewing for this post on an ongoing basis and the vacancy will close once we have found the successful candidate.  Please apply as soon as possible if interested, and no later than 11.59pm on Thursday 8th May.

Interview process: Shortlisted candidates will need to complete a 30 minute task prior to being invited to interview.

Inclusivity: FoodCycle is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We are a Disability Confident Scheme member. 

Safeguarding: Safeguarding is Everyone’s business – FoodCycle is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare / wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk. This role will therefore require a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check.

Please note that you will need to have existing Right to Work in the UK to apply for this role. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship.​

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Make a Change 

Make a Change is a community-wide, early response approach to people using abusive behaviours (or who are concerned that they might be) towards a current or ex-partner. The model has been developed by Respect in partnership with Women’s Aid Federation England, drawing inspiration from their Change that Lasts approach. It includes three strands: expert support programme for perpetrators with parallel support for survivors, workforce development and community outreach.

Improving the safety, freedom and wellbeing of adult and child survivors of domestic abuse is a key outcome for our work with perpetrators.  The Make a Change model is a multi-partner project offering local areas a framework for delivering perpetrator work. Where feasible, we aim to establish partnerships with local survivor domestic abuse service to deliver parallel support for survivors (referred to as Integrated Support Service) as part the expert support strand.

This is a new and exciting role within the Make a Change team. This exciting new role offers a unique opportunity to join our team at a pivotal moment.  As the first person to fill this position, you'll play a key role in shaping its development and collaborating with the team to define its future direction.  This is a fantastic time to join us as we grow, and you'll be an integral part of establishing this important function and contributing to our collective and continued success 

We are seeking a Make a Change Development Lead to drive the development and innovation plans for the model for 2025-28. This pivotal role will focus on enhancing the three core strands of Make a Change: Expert Support, Workforce Development, and Community Outreach.

This role requires innovation, leadership and collaboration with a range of stakeholders, ensuring these strands work seamlessly together to achieve meaningful, measurable outcomes for individuals and communities.

You will need to think long-term and understand how different components of the programme fit together. Strong leadership skills are necessary to guide teams, inspire collaboration, and make decisions that will influence both the direction of the programme and its day-to-day operations. You will have a passion for innovation and continuous improvement to develop and test new strategies, tools, and methodologies, ensuring that the programme remains dynamic and responsive to changing needs.

This is an exciting opportunity within a creative and proactive team, where members are encouraged to seek out and share learning. The role focuses on continuously developing our work with perpetrators, contributing to the growing evidence base on effective behaviour change and strategies to keep survivors safe. 

At Fuel Bank Foundation, we believe no one should have to choose between heating and eating. Every day, we help people across the UK who are facing fuel crisis—providing emergency financial support, advice, and long-term solutions that create lasting change.

We’re looking for an experienced Strategic Partnerships Manager to help us grow and nurture high-impact relationships with corporate partners, charitable trusts, and grant-making bodies. If you’re a confident communicator, natural relationship-builder, and passionate about making a difference, this could be the role for you.

About the Role:

As Strategic Partnerships Manager, you will play a central role in driving income growth and increasing the impact of our partnerships. You’ll work closely with the Head of Strategic Partnerships to deliver our partnership strategy—developing new funding opportunities, managing existing relationships, and ensuring excellent stewardship throughout the partner journey.

This is a dynamic and varied role that offers scope for creativity, strategy, and hands-on relationship management. You'll collaborate closely with internal teams to bring partner activity to life, demonstrate impact, and align our work with shared goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage a portfolio of strategic partnerships, including charitable trusts, corporate sponsors, and grant-making bodies.
• Deliver high-quality stewardship and build strong, long-term relationships with supporters.
• Identify and secure new partnership and funding opportunities in line with organisational strategy.
• Create compelling, tailored proposals and pitches that align with partner objectives and Fuel Bank’s mission.
• Track partnership performance, prepare reports and evaluations, and share impact stories with funders and internal stakeholders.
• Collaborate across departments to align partner activity with service delivery and communications.
• Contribute to income planning, forecasting, and the delivery of financial targets.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong experience in partnership management, business development, account management, or fundraising—ideally within the charity, non-profit or social impact sector.
• A track record of building successful relationships and delivering income growth.
• Skilled in writing proposals, reports, and presenting ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Commercial awareness and confidence working with budgets, forecasts, and reporting tools.
• Strategic thinker with a creative mindset and the ability to spot new opportunities.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills.
• Comfortable working independently and managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

What You’ll Receive in Return:

• Team Support: Join a supportive and collaborative team committed to your success.
• Enhanced Annual Leave: 27.5 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to buy or sell additional days.
• Flexible Working: Enjoy a flexible schedule that supports a healthy work-life balance.
• Comprehensive Benefits:
  • Enhanced pension contributions.
  • Private healthcare and access to an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Training and Development: Benefit from a comprehensive onboarding programme and ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Equal Opportunities Employer: We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.

About Chapter One

Chapter One is a dynamic, growing charity with a vision of a world in which all children have the literacy skills needed to thrive. Our mission is to close the reading gap by providing children with one-to-one support at the time they need it most. 

Our unique Online Reading Volunteer programme currently supports about 3,000 children a year. It pairs disadvantaged, struggling five to eight-year old (KS1) readers with reading support volunteers who come from over 140 local and national businesses. The volunteer ask is very focused: readers commit 30 minutes a week to read with a child using a bespoke digital platform for an entire academic year. The results are transformative, boosting children's reading confidence and ability. 

We have set ourselves ambitious targets to support thousands more children by 2029, and this role, with responsibility for managing, stewarding and nurturing our existing corporate partners, will be crucial to ensuring that we have sufficient volunteers and support to achieve not only this target, but also to develop other innovative pilot programmes.

For more information about our programmes please visit our website. Please also take some time to visit our social media channels and watch our videos.

About the role 

Chapter One is seeking a proactive, energetic and enthusiastic Corporate Partnerships Manager to be an integral part of a team which aims to both maximise corporate income and deliver an excellent partner and volunteer experience. 

Reporting to our Head of Corporate Partnerships, and responsible for the line management of our Corporate Partnerships Officer, you’ll deliver on our annual volunteer and income targets and maintain our strong partner retention rate (target 87%). This will involve supporting the account management of a portfolio of existing partners and the responsibility to nurture relationships to increase partner investment in Chapter One over time. The role involves collaborating across departments to ensure a seamless and positive experience for volunteers and partners

This is an opportunity for an experienced partnerships manager to take on a more senior role and demonstrate their sales acumen and creativity in a dynamic, flexible and agile charity.

Key Responsibilities

Partner Stewardship

• Lead the account management of a selected portfolio of corporate partners, ensuring Chapter One achieves its annual retention and growth targets 

• In collaboration with the Head of Corporate Partnerships, devise effective schemes of delegation and partner allocation within the Corporate Partnerships Team 

• Focus, in all corporate partnership discussions, on maximising income 

• Identify opportunities to increase a partner’s support eg by identifying other regional/divisional opportunities or inclusion of Chapter One as a social value partner in public sector bids

• Conduct regular partnership meetings, including mid and end of year reviews, proactively proposing tailored opportunities to retain and grow partner support

• Lead on producing high quality written communications, reports, proposals and pitches as per the requirements of each partner, collaborating with the Data and Systems Officer and Fundraising team as needed

• Advocate effectively, with passion and enthusiasm, for Chapter One’s programmes in a variety of internal and external settings

• Proactively network to deepen and strengthen external relationships with Chapter One partners, identifying speaking opportunities for Chapter One where possible

• Strategically use LinkedIn to identify, connect with, and actively engage key stakeholders within corporate partner organisations,

• Attend conference and events to represent Chapter One and talk about its work to existing and potential new partners

• Keep up to date with relevant business news and strategic shifts or developments at key partners and sectors, proactively seeking opportunities to broaden knowledge

• Regularly analyse data in Microsoft Excel / Google Sheets, working with formulas, pivot tables and data analysis tools to aid decision-making and create dashboards. 

• Oversee and maintain all Account Management related processes, including stewardship plans, recording of activity on the Salesforce CRM and internal platform databases

• Ensure, in conjunction with the Finance Assistant, that partners are invoiced for their Chapter One donations accurately and in a timely manner

Line management

• Line manage and develop the Corporate Partnerships Officer, ensuring adherence to all Chapter One’s HR Policies and Procedures

• Be a source of advice and guidance for the Corporate Partnerships Officer as they manage their allocated partner relationships

• Supervise the Corporate Partnerships Officer to lead volunteer recruitment meetings, including stepping in if necessary

• Supervise the Corporate Partnerships Officer to manage new partner onboarding meetings, stepping in to lead them if required

Partner/volunteer onboarding and experience

• Alongside the Head of Corporate Partnerships, use internal systems to assign partner teams and volunteers to specific schools and ensure that their needs are met

• Develop proactive, supportive relationships with Volunteer Coordinators in partner organisations, providing high-quality data and information in a timely manner

• Work closely with the Volunteer Support Team to ensure that partner and volunteer onboarding is a smooth, time-efficient experience 

• Support the Programme Management team to liaise with partner contacts about the organisation of in-person school/office visits and virtual meet and greets

• Attend Chapter One’s internal Volunteer Experience group and Corporate Engagement Group.

Marketing and Communications

• Work with the Marketing and Communications team to ensure that companies and volunteers have access to an array of promotional assets and recruitment materials

• Create and provide content for the regular volunteer and corporate partner newsletters, including working with partners to gather volunteer testimonials and partner profiles

• Work closely with the Marketing and Communications team to develop ways to promote, showcase and celebrate partnerships and individual volunteers across our social media channels and other digital platforms

• Encourage corporate partners to promote Chapter One through their own social media and channels

• Support the organisation of online and in person partner and volunteer recognition events

We are looking for the following key skills, though you might be more experienced in some areas than others:

Account Management Skills:

• Experience of managing Corporate Partnerships, or equivalent relationship-based roles in a fundraising, events, sales or marketing environment

• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with business professionals at all levels

• Expert meeting facilitation skills 

• Strategic thinker, able to maximise income and growth opportunities

• Understanding of CSR / ESG partner policies and social value trends

Communication Skills:

• Able to eloquently express commitment to Chapter One’s mission and values

• Outstanding presentation and storytelling skills, with the ability to excite and inspire an audience

• An ability to create compelling, attractive written pitches, ensuring messaging and brand are consistent

• Experience of engaging partners on social media (particularly LinkedIn)

• Experience of representing organisations at events 

Technical Skills:

• Excellent proficiency in Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets (including formulas, pivot tables, dashboard creation)

• CRM management (specifically Salesforce)

• Experience of complex data analysis 

You’ll be more successful in the role if you have:

• Experience of working in the charity/non-profit sector

• Line management experience

• Experience of mentoring and developing staff

• Experience of process oversight and improvement

Chapter One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value and celebrate diversity in backgrounds and experience and are deliberate about the kind of teams we are building. Literacy is a universal concern, and we need people from all backgrounds to maximise our innovation, creativity and impact. We especially welcome applications from persons who have experienced disadvantage and/or from those who are of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities who are currently underrepresented in the organisation. 

Chapter One is committed to safeguarding children and young people. All postholders are subject to a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service disclosure. Copies of our Safeguarding Policy and Safer Recruitment Policy are available on request.

Introduction to TDS

TDS is a not-for-profit organisation with a clear social purpose: to raise standards in the private rented sector. Established to create a fairer and more professional rental market by protecting deposits and resolving deposit disputes, TDS has since expanded its mission. Today, we invest in a range of additional services and initiatives that further our commitment to improving the sector.

Key initiatives relevant to this role include:
- Developing an influential research programme to ensure that laws and regulations are informed by robust evidence.
- Funding a range of projects and organisations through our two independent charities.
- Leveraging our direct communication channels with millions of tenants, landlords, and letting agents to educate and inform all parties.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Key initiatives relevant to this role include:
- Developing an influential research programme to ensure that laws and regulations are informed by robust evidence.
- Funding a range of projects and organisations through our two independent charities.
- Leveraging our direct communication channels with millions of tenants, landlords, and letting agents to educate and inform all parties.

Introduction to the Role

We are looking for a Research and Policy Officer (Maternity Cover) to join our expanding Policy and Research department, which also oversees the TDS Charitable Foundation. This is a pivotal role supporting our mission to improve standards in the private rented sector through impactful research, thought leadership, and policy engagement.
The successful candidate will play a key part in delivering our research programme, including overseeing flagship projects like the Voice of the Tenant and Voice of the Landlord surveys, and producing high-quality qualitative and quantitative research.

You will also support the smooth running of the Charitable Foundation’s grant-making and governance activities and contribute to our work influencing policy and practice across the UK’s private rented sector.
This is a great opportunity for someone passionate about housing, with a solid grounding in research and an interest in policy, to join a values-driven organisation delivering real-world impact.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Research
1. Collaborate with external research contractors to deliver the regular ‘Voice of the Tenant’ and ‘Voice of the Landlord’ Survey.
2. Ensure the research findings are widely disseminated through different channels, including events, publications, briefings and digital content.
3. Help identify research gaps and contribute to the development execution of new research projects or commissioning of external research.
4. Conduct proactive desk-based research to identify emerging trends, new policy developments, and partnership opportunities relevant to the Foundation and the sector.
5. Undertake in-house research activities, such as literature reviews, focus groups, stakeholder interviews, where required.
6. Contribute to the drafting and production of high-quality research reports and briefings, ensuring clarity, accessibility, and relevance for policy and practice audiences.

Policy
7. Monitor and analyse relevant legislative and regulatory developments, consultations, and debates, identifying implications for the sector and TDS’s work.
8. Support the development of TDS’s policy positions by preparing briefings, drafting responses to consultations, and summarising evidence from research.
9. Help communicate TDS’s policy insights and positions clearly and effectively to internal stakeholders, partners, and decision-makers.

Charity co-ordination
10. Act as a key point of contact for grant-funded projects, supporting projects to share progress and impact, and identify any support needs.
11. Help to Coordinate the TDS Charitable Foundation’s quarterly Board of Trustee meetings, including preparing board papers, taking minutes, and following up on actions.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential characteristics

1. Qualifications and experience
Essential:

• Educated to degree level in a relevant subject.
• At least 3 years’ experience in research, social policy or similar role (or equivalent post-graduate study).
• Knowledge of research design
• Proven track record of producing content to communicate to different audiences.
• Experience of building relationships with external stakeholders.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of the housing sector or charitable work.

2.  Job Knowledge
Must be able to:

• Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Show an ability to build relationships with stakeholders.
• Demonstrate organisational skills to help coordinate multiple projects.
• Utilise strong IT skills including sound knowledge of MS Office.
• Prove ability to write content for different audiences.

3. Communication
Must be able to:

• Work as part of a team;
• Have good interpersonal skills, communicating effectively with colleagues, funded projects and other stakeholders.

4. Equal Opportunities

• Must be able to demonstrate a commitment to equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion.

5. Required behaviour and attitude

• Applicants must be able to:
• demonstrate an affinity for customer excellence
• recognise the importance of fairness in all of our work
• demonstrate how they are making a difference in the work that they do
• is able to articulate the importance of teamwork
• are committed to excellence in all that we do;
• help create a great place to work.

TDS offers a plethora of benefits inclusive of:

• 33 days holiday inc bank holidays
• BUPA Private healthcare
• BUPA Wellbeing cash plan
• Pension Scheme
• Additional day off for your birthday
• Plus many more!

Hours of the role
35 hours per week. Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letting outlining how your skills and experience match the person specification.

TDS is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in our workforce and to be truly representative of all sections of society and our customers.

ARMA (UK) is the professional association for research management in the UK. We represent research leaders, managers and administrators, offering professional development and opportunities to build networks, knowledge and skills.

We are looking for a Conference and Major Events Manager to lead on the delivery of our successful annual conference and other major events.

The role includes, but is not limited to, project management, budgeting and financial management, marketing and promotion, sponsorship and exhibition sales/ coordination, venue selection and contracting, supplier management, speaker liaison, abstract management and delegate administration.

This role will work closely with our Head of Membership Engagement, the chair of Conference and Conference Working Group to deliver an excellent programme and outstanding delegate experience. The role holder is also responsible for managing the relationship with our appointed Professional Conference Organiser (PCO).

For full details about this role, our work and the skills required please refer to our role profile.