Head of programme jobs
Hours: Full-time
Pay: Up to £51,100 GBP gross per annual (dependent on experience)
Duration: Permanent
Location: UK-Med Office, Manchester, UK with hybrid working (approximately 30% on-site)
Do you have the strategic insight and operational expertise to ensure strong and effective financial leadership in a fast-growing humanitarian organisation?
UK-Med is a frontline medical aid charity. Born of the NHS, we’ve been working for over 30 years towards a world where everyone has the healthcare they need when crises or disasters hit.
As UK-Med continues to grow and scale its impact, we are strengthening our financial capacity to meet rising humanitarian needs. In this context, the new Head of Finance (UK) will play a pivotal role in ensuring the strength, integrity and effectiveness of UK-Med’s financial management.
You’ll lead the operational finance function overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, payroll, treasury and grant management, and support for fundraising, ensuring the organisation has the financial resilience to deliver life-saving humanitarian responses around the world.
Based in the UK, this role is central to maintaining high standards of financial governance, supporting sound decision-making, managing risk and ensuring effective systems, policies and processes. You’ll work closely with our Associate Director of Finance and senior leadership team, while leading and developing a high-performing finance team.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives on supporting operational delivery, ensuring high-quality financial reporting, and strengthening systems. You’ll bring together technical excellence and strong leadership skills, working collaboratively and effectively in a complex, fast-changing environment. Your contribution will directly enable UK-Med to respond rapidly to emergencies and make a tangible impact on people affected by crises.
We offer a competitive salary and benefits, a collaborative and supportive working environment, and the opportunity to make a real difference through humanitarian work.
UK-Med is a growing and ambitious organisation with a passionate team of staff, members, and volunteers. This is a truly exciting opportunity to shape the future of our financial function and support our mission to provide healthcare in emergencies worldwide.
How to apply
We strongly recommend that you read the Candidate Information Pack – Head of Finance (UK) - November 2025 before applying for this role.
To apply, please submit a current CV and a supporting letter (2 pages) through ouronline jobs portal.
Response to the following question:
- A detailed explanation of your suitability for this post with specific reference to the essential criteria in the person specification
Please apply as soon as possible and no later than Tuesday 2nd December 2025
Candidates who meet the eligibility and salary thresholds for visa sponsorship may be considered. However, it’s important to note that the role is based in the UK, and regular attendance at our Manchester HQ is expected. Therefore, candidates currently based outside the UK would need to be willing to relocate if successful.
UK-Med is committed to safeguarding of our personnel and beneficiaries and has a zero-tolerance approach to sexual exploitation and abuse. We conduct thorough vetting before any appointment is confirmed.
UK-Med is committed to the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where employees feel respected and supported to be able to fulfil their potential.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Over the last four years, the current Head of Funding & Partnerships has secured over £10m from trusts, foundations and housing associations to help HACT deliver its charitable purpose. In the next three years, our objective is to increase this amount. We want to hear from you if you believe you can support HACT deliver on our ambition.
ROLE DESCRIPTION
The Head of Funding and Partnershipsis a key member of HACT’s Leadership Team and leads the organisation’s business development, tendering and fundraising function. As part of the management tier, the role is responsible for scaling HACT’s impact across and beyond the housing sector through innovative commercial approaches, strategic fundraising, and exceptional customer relationships.
This position combines fundraising expertise, partnership building, developing and maintaining high-value relationships with funders, partners, and clients, as well as market intelligence. It identifies new opportunities for R&D development, pipeline growth, product sales and tender submissions while managing core business development activities that support HACT’s strategy.
The Head of Funding and Partnerships creates and executes annual fundraising and commercial plans, fosters collaborative relationships across the organisation, and embodies HACT’s values through transparent, supportive leadership. From time to time, the role presents to the Trustee Board and provides strategic advice and leadership to the executive team.
JOB PURPOSE
To lead HACT's fundraising, tendering and business development function, delivering ambitious fundraising targets while providing strategic market insights that drive organisational growth and innovation.
Responsibilities
Strategic fundraising leadership
- Create and deliver a fundraising strategy aligned with HACT's business strategy and ambitious growth target, with annual and multi-year targets
- ·Identify new funding opportunities through market research, relationship building, and strategic intelligence
- Lead the development of high-quality tender responses and proposals
- Maintain a register of frameworks and procurement opportunities aligned to HACT’s strategic priorities
- Oversee the production of high-quality client proposals within agreed deadlines, ensuring compelling cases for support
Partnership building:
- Develop and maintain relationships with corporate sponsors, foundations, and other organisations to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
- Manage existing funder relationships to ensure satisfaction, retention, and growth of funding commitments
- Support cross-sector collaborations, innovation pilots and consortium funding bids.
Market intelligence & business development
- Contribute to organisational strategy development through participation in Leadership Team activities
- Proactively identify collaboration and innovation opportunities, supporting business growth and diversification
- Provide market insights that enable R&D development, supporting innovation and new service creation and market analysis to support pipeline growth in new markets and enhance existing product sales
- Collaborate with colleagues to identify emerging trends and opportunities in the housing and social value sectors
- Contribute to strategic decision-making through robust market intelligence and competitive analysis
Cross-functional collaboration
- Work closely with the Head of Communities and Projects to ensure project delivery meets funder expectations, leading on managing key grant funding relationships
- Work closely with the Head of Marketing to align fundraising and marketing strategies for maximum impact
- Work closely with the Head of Services to create proposals that maximise income opportunities
- Work closely with Head of Customer to identify commercial opportunities and enhance service delivery, using insights form Social Value Insight to strengthen funding propositions.
- Work with the Head of Business Functions to develop commercial pricing and funding models and ensure compliance with due diligence and funder requests.
- Support colleagues across the organisation by providing proposal support, market insights and funding intelligence
Team leadership & operational excellence
- Line manage and develop the Funding and Insights Officer, providing coaching, guidance, and performance management
- Develop and implement Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for proposals and grant applications to ensure consistency and quality
- Establish accessible, reliable management information systems to track performance and inform decision-making
- Ensure efficient processes and systems that support high-quality proposal development, tender submissions and relationship management
- Leverage AI tools and platforms to enhance business development processes
- Champion the adoption of AI-enabled solutions to improve productivity, personalise engagement strategies, and uncover new opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
Strategic leadership & culture
- Actively model HACT's values and behaviours by consistently demonstrating supportive, transparent and collaborative leadership
- Contribute to an inclusive and respectful organisational culture through positive leadership and team engagement
- Lead by example as a key member of HACT's Leadership Team, embodying our values across all internal and external relationships
- Champion cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing to maximise organisational effectiveness
REQUIRED SKILLS
Experience & skills
- Proven track record in senior fundraising roles, with demonstrated success in securing and managing significant grants from charitable foundations, government, and other funding bodies
- Demonstrated success in proposal writing, developing tenders and commercial bids
- Strong background in business development and market research, ideally within the charitable or public sector
- Experience in relationship management with high-value stakeholders and complex funding organisations
- Strong communication, influencing and project management capabilities
- Demonstrated ability to create and deliver strategic fundraising plans aligned with organisational objectives
- Strategic thinking ability combined with practical execution and attention to detail
- Resilience and adaptability in a dynamic funding environment.
- Knowledge of the social housing sector (desirable).
- Ability to identify and apply AI-driven tools to enhance business development activities and using AI to streamline workflows, personalise engagement strategies and uncover new growth opportunities.
Knowledge & understanding
- Deep understanding of the UK funding landscape, including charitable foundations, government funding streams, public procurement frameworks and social investment
- Knowledge of the housing sector, social value, or community development preferred
- Understanding of R&D funding mechanisms and innovation support programmes
- Familiarity with grant management processes and funder compliance requirements
- Knowledge of market research methodologies and competitive intelligence gathering
Personal qualities
- Exceptional relationship-building and networking skills with ability to engage stakeholders at all levels
- Strategic mindset with ability to identify opportunities and translate them into actionable plans
- Strong communication and influencing skills, both written and verbal
- Collaborative leadership style that embodies transparency, respect, and inclusivity
- Excellent project management and prioritisation skills with ability to manage multiple complex workstreams
- Resilience and adaptability in a dynamic funding environment
- Passion for HACT's mission and commitment to social impact in the housing sector
Technical competencies
- Proficiency in CRM systems and database management for relationship tracking (ideally HubSpot or Salesforce)
- Advanced skills in proposal writing, bid development, and presentation creation
- Experience with project management tools and budget management systems
- Understanding of due diligence processes and compliance requirements
- Knowledge of social impact measurement and evaluation frameworks
Desirable requirements
- Professional qualifications in fundraising (IoF membership) or business development
- Experience working in or with housing associations, local authorities, or social housing sector
- Knowledge of social value frameworks and impact investment principles
- Experience in managing EU or international funding programmes
- Understanding of research and development processes in policy or practice areas
JOB ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Leads the successful delivery of strategic fundraising and business development projects, ensuring high-quality outputs, stakeholder engagement, and funder satisfaction.
- Secures project funding through strategic relationship-building, proposal development, and targeted fundraising activities.
- Develops and maintains accessible management information systems to support .
- Implements service level agreements (SLAs) for proposals to ensure consistent quality and timely delivery across grant applications and business development outputs.
- Builds new relationships with charitable funders while sustaining and growing existing partnerships to diversify income streams.
- Embeds HACT’s values through inclusive leadership, fostering a collaborative culture and modelling best practice across the organisation.
Employees are also expected to be flexible in undertaking the duties and responsibilities attached to their post and may be asked to perform other duties that are consistent with the grade, responsibilities, and typical scope of the role. Any additional tasks should remain appropriate to the nature of the post and not extend into unrelated functions or specialisms.
All employees are expected to work in accordance with the organisation’s values and behavioural standards, which include being supportive, transparent, respectful, kind, honest, and collaborative. This means fostering a culture of empathy, openness, integrity, and teamwork in all interactions, and contributing positively to the organisation’s mission and strategic objectives.
ABOUT HACT
Innovation. Collaboration. Insights.
It’s what we’ve always done.
As the charity of the social housing sector, these are the core values that have driven the transformation and development of housing providers for over 60 years.
We believe the provision of housing is about more than just bricks and mortar – it’s about enhancing peoples’ lives.
By partnering with organisations across the housing sector, we drive value for residents and communities through insight-led products and services which encourage innovation and foster collaboration.
This position is currently based remotely with the occasional day in the London office and travel to UK based events as required.
To apply for this role, please share your CV with a one-page cover letter setting out why this role appeals to you and how your skills and experiences meet the key skills points in the job description.
Interviews expected to take place on week commencing the 15th December.
To apply for this role, please share your CV with a one-page cover letter setting out why this role appeals to you and how your skills and experiences meet the key skills points in the job description.
Interviews expected to take place week commencing 15th December.
To support the social housing sector to unlock the full potential of its social purpose, for the benefit of residents & local communities
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Head of Operations at the Donmar Warehouse is a critical role working in collaboration with all Donmar departments, contractors and freelance staff to ensure the smooth, safe and efficient running of all operational, facilities and Health and Safety processes.
The role will manage the Facilities & Operations Coordinator and between the two posts ensure adequate coverage is in place across the required hours on a shift basis. The role requires coordination, communication and direction to external parties such as security, maintenance and suppliers to ensure all needs of the organisation are met, including some availability out of hours by phone and email for the most part, with time off in lieu given.
The Donmar Warehouse sites, where this role operates, comprise the theatre, offices, a residential flat and include kitchens, bathrooms, plant rooms, etc.
TERMS
Permanent, Full Time
Salary: £42,000 per annum
Working hours:
Shift based working pattern to ensure cover across Monday to Friday 8:30am-7pm with line report. On call and out of hours work as detailed in the job pack.
Key Dates
Applications Close at 10am on Monday 1 December
Late submissions will not be accepted.
Round One Interviews: week commencing 8 December
Round Two Interviews: week commencing 15 December
Handover Days: early to mid January 2026
We believe that representation matters; diversity of identity, of perspective and of lived experience enriches our work and our lives. We recognise that the Donmar and the wider theatre industry is not representative of contemporary society in terms of workforce, artists and audience. We particularly encourage applications from those who are currently under-represented both at the Donmar and more widely in the industry, and specifically from D/deaf or disabled, or neurodivergent applicants and applicants who experience barriers and inequity due to ethnicity, gender reassignment and/or socio-economic background.
Duties and Responsibilities
Building Management
- Managing a shift-based work pattern between yourself and the Facilities Coordinator to provide minimum x1 on-site coverage between 8.30am - 7pm Monday - Friday (excluding public holidays).
Stakeholder Management
- Liaising with a variety of contractors, freelancers and internal staff to ensure all planned and unplanned maintenance is delivered to high standard and in a timely fashion.
Health & Safety, Security and Training
- Work closely with the Director of Technical and Production and external consultants/contractors to ensure the Health & Safety and Security compliance requirements of both buildings are met, including leading regular audits and inspections and carrying out/organising improvements across departments.
Project and Systems Management
- Being the first point of contact for all departments in the company on any issues that might arise with facilities or IT.
More information and the full list of duties and responsibilities is available on our Careers Page.
Person Specification
Essential
- Substantial experience in a management-related role, demonstrating evidence-based decision making and professional learnings. This role may suit someone with a background in Stage Management, Technical Management or Front of House Management.
- Understanding of theatre operations, processes, and roles — or experience working within a similar creative live performance environment.
- Experience in line management.
- Experience in managing external suppliers, contractors or freelancers.
- Experience writing, reviewing and managing process-related documentation, risk assessments and other pertinent documents.
- Experience of supporting the delivery of organisational strategy, through clear and effective planning and reporting.
- Experience of managing aspects of Health & Safety in a professional environment and an understanding of related legislation.
- Computer-literate, with the ability to learn and provide basic coaching on new IT systems and software, making the most of their capabilities.
- Ability to contribute to building, and effectively managing an operational budget.
- Excellent communication skills across all mediums (in person, phone, email and paperwork).
- Exceptional organisational skills; able to prioritise effectively, work under pressure, and adapt to new situations.
- Practical problem solver with a can-do attitude and keen attention to detail.
- Calm and level-headed, especially when faced with business-critical challenges. Prioritising, organising & communicating solutions to relevant parties in a timely manner.
- Proactive collaborator, communicator and negotiator. Able to build strong working relationships both internally and externally in order to anticipate and meet needs and challenges ahead of time.
- Ability to prioritise an ever-shifting workload with positivity, flexibility, tact and diplomacy to ensure both buildings run smoothly and safely even when new challenges appear.
Desirable
- IOSH qualification.
- Experience of managing Health & Safety in a professional technical, live-performance environment.
- Experience of planning and managing training and professional development.
- A functional understanding of IT systems and basic networking.
- Basic understanding of Health and Safety legislation related to the theatre industry. In particular COSHH, PUWER, CDM (2015), HSWA (1974).
- Knowledge and experience of the Theatre Green Book 2.0.
- Experience writing, reviewing and managing Operational and H&S policies.
Benefits
Holiday
Enhanced holiday scheme with 25 days a year (rising a day per year, up to 30 days) excluding Bank Holidays.
Annual Birthday leave.
Benefits (post-probation and dependant on length of service)
6% employer pension contribution as part of the Donmar’s stakeholder pension scheme.
Enhanced maternity, paternity, and shared parental leave
Lifestyle
Season ticket loan (travel)
Subsidised local gym membership
£25 towards annual eye tests
Employee welfare programme
Cycle to work bike loan scheme
Discount at Donmar bar on food and drinks
Complimentary tickets to attend Donmar performances
Professional Development
All staff training and professional development programme
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you want to be part of the team in a charity that has a 135-year history of combating the challenges arising from deprivation and social exclusion in East London?
Our mission at St. Hilda’s East is to equip our service users with the resilience to navigate modern life. We welcome everyone into our spaces and work together to deliver engaging activities, promote social contact and ultimately enrich lives.
Located in Tower Hamlets, we welcome people of all ages to our large, friendly community centre in Shoreditch where we offer a wide range of activities promoting wellbeing and social connections. Our services include sensory play for Under-5’s, youth programmes, wellbeing activities for those experiencing mental health issues, bilingual advice, and activities to reduce social isolation and enhance physical and mental wellbeing for older people. We also run a day centre in Shadwell, where we care for elders from the Bangladeshi and other communities.
We employ over 40 staff and engage about 65 volunteers each year. In a recent survey of our staff, more than three-quarters reported St Hilda's as a great place to work, and this role will help embed best practice relating to employment and volunteering to ensure we can build upon this positivity. The postholder will work closely with our Senior Leadership Team and the Board, including a Trustee who has several decades experience as a HR manager and consultant. The role would highly suit someone in the early stages of their career in HR wishing to expand upon their experience or, alternatively, someone with a career in HR behind them, looking for a change of scene and to get involved in a mission driven charity.
The postholder will provide support and guidance on HR matters to all staff and managers, helping to foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Our newly refreshed strategic priorities include a commitment to increasing volunteer participation within the charity’s work, and the postholder will play a key role in implementing this priority by improving our procedures and enhancing our capacity.
This job is for you, if you:
- Have at least 2 years’ experience in HR administration and practice, ideally within the charity sector.
- A good working knowledge of employment legislation and best practice in people management.
- The ability and passion to drive forward an agenda around staff and volunteer engagement and wellbeing.
- Ability to write organisational policies.
- Demonstrable knowledge of best practice around volunteer management, or the ability to learn quickly.
Benefits include flexible working arrangements with the option to work either a 2 or 3 day week, 25 days annual leave, and access to an Employee Assistance Programme.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 7th December 2025 at 23:59
We will be reviewing applications as they come in. Immediate availability is a plus. The closing date for this post may be brought forward or extended depending on the volume and strength of applications.
St Hilda's is committed to racial justice and wider inclusion and diversity. We are working towards a goal where our team fully reflects the diversity and difference in lived experiences of our local community.
To apply, please upload your CV and cover letter by clicking on the "Quick Apply" button. Referring to the attached Person Specification, your cover letter should explain your background, suitability for the role and interest in what we do. Don’t forget to provide examples to evidence your experience and abilities.
St Hilda’s East delivers a wide range of engaging activities for local communities in Tower Hamlets to promote wellbeing and social connection.


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Head of Communications
Salary: Banding Level 5 £45,000 - £50,000
Contract type: Permanent / Working hours: Full time
Location: Taunton, Somerset. Opportunity for hybrid working
The Head of Communications is a fundamental role within the Somerset Wildlife Trust.
The role is responsible for leading the development and coordinated delivery of the Trust’s communications in line with the Wilder Somerset 2030 strategy. This includes identifying key audiences, crafting core messages, and selecting effective communication channels to raise awareness and understanding of the Trust’s work. The postholder will support staff across the organisation in achieving the strategy’s aims while managing a team of specialists and responding to emerging issues professionally and astutely.
Working across teams, the Head of Communications will develop and deliver an annual communications plan that meets the organisation's priorities.
Key Responsibilities and Tasks
Responsibility 1: Leadership & Cross Team Working
- Strategic Planning: Lead the development of the communications delivery plan and annual calendar, involving all areas of the Trust, defining key audiences, messages and channels with the aim of increasing awareness and understanding of the Trust. Provide effective leadership and build strong working relationships with departments across the charity to ensure integrated communications plans and campaigns are developed and implemented to achieve the maximum impact with external audiences.
- Communications Delivery Plan: Effective coordination of both messages and activity – both reactive and proactive throughout the year. Including improvements with revised website navigation and architecture, SEO improvements and content targeted at priority groups, including use of video, and influencers.
- Senior Leadership Team: Be an active member of the Senior Leadership Team taking collective responsibility for decision making, risk and budget management across the Trust. Work with the Senior Leadership Team to ensure all communications effectively contribute to and support all strategic goals of the Trust.
- Brand Marketing: Work with teams to improve our products and services and how these meet the needs of our audiences, including working with focus groups (with co-creation when relevant).
- Building Capability: Coordinate providing support and training for all staff to achieve effective communications, which supports the Trust’s overall brand and positioning, including mentoring the communications team.
- Systems & Processes: Maintain and develop systems for gathering information and communications planning within the Trust and from project partners, RSWT and SWT. Embedding into all teams’ ways of working.
Responsibility 2: Communications Delivery
- Line Management: Manage, support and develop a team of staff and volunteers to deliver the communications work programme, providing effective line management. Including the provision of specialist support and advice for the development of specific communication campaigns or tools across the organisation.
- Budgets: Ensure communication activity elsewhere in the Trust is produced within allocated budgets and timeframes.
- Performance: Set and manage KPIs and budget for communications programmes, monitoring and reporting performance and reforecasting in line with Trust requirements. Continuous improvement.
- Brand: Develop the Trust’s brand, ensuring a clear and distinctive brand proposition and engaging brand identity, which also supports the Trust as part of the Wildlife Trusts movement. Ensure the brand’s consistent use and monitor the link with the Trust strategy and values.
- Public Affairs: Oversee the PR and media relations (press office function), and act as a key charity spokesperson when required. Horizon scanning and being aware of emerging issues to develop opportunistic messages to optimise nature recovery actions.
- Crisis Management: Protect the Trust's reputation by ensuring the effectiveness of robust crisis management plans and the definition of clear policies and position statements.
- Design, Content & Print: Coordinate the Annual Report with teams and Trustees. Editor for the members’ magazine and print products to support membership retention and enable action for nature.
Responsibility 3: Campaigns for Change
- Strategic Campaign Planning: Work with our policy, advocacy and engagement specialists to design campaigns that move people through the engagement funnel, change behaviour, influence policy, and improve supporter retention. Work with the Exec Team to set campaign objectives tied to clear outcomes: acquisition, activation, retention, behaviour change, policy influence, or income generation.
- Supporter Journeys & Segmentation: Map and optimise journeys across channels (email, web, social media, print, events) with named next steps that move people toward deeper engagement and action.
- Marketing Campaign Leadership: Own the strategic design of multi-channel marketing campaigns and provide clear briefs and creative direction to the delivery team. Ensure channel integration so website journeys, email, print content and social media activity are coordinated and measurable. Keep storytelling compelling while optimising for acquisition and action.
- Advocacy & Policy Campaigns: Work across teams to design campaigns to influence systems change by leveraging our data and evidence, combining public voice, stakeholder engagement and targeted advocacy tactics.
- Behaviour Change Campaigns: Work with our engagement specialists to apply social marketing techniques and behavioural frameworks to shift norms and the adoption of actions for nature. Translate data and evidence into interventions that use communication tactics such as prompts, social proof, incentives and nudges to create measurable behaviour change.
We offer some fantastic benefits including:
- 7% employer pension contribution
- Life assurance
- Flexible and agile working
- Wellbeing support – EAP, wellbeing champions
- Diversity networks through RSWT/TWT
- Paid volunteer days
- Continuous Professional Development opportunities
- 33 days of holiday (25 + bank holidays) + Christmas shutdown
- Staff social calendar and events
- The opportunity to make a real and positive difference to nature, communities and the climate
Closing date: Monday 5th January 2026
Please note: We reserve the right to close the position early if application volumes are particularly high. We encourage you to get your application in sooner rather than later.
Interested?
If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.
Somerset Wildlife Trust have an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Plan and are committed to continuing to improve the equality, diversity and inclusion of every aspect of our work; we know we need to engage with everyone to live our values and achieve our goals. We welcome applications from everyone and are happy to discuss any accommodations or arrangements that would make the recruitment process better for you, and the working environment should you be employed.
No agencies please.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Head of Fundraising (Philanthropy Manager) to lead our fundraising efforts and drive sustainable income growth. This is a pivotal role identified by our Board of Trustees as critical to the future of Life Charity. You will shape and deliver our fundraising strategy, lead a talented team, and cultivate relationships with major donors and supporters.
Reporting to the Director of Income Generation & Housing, you will:
- Take strategic ownership of Life’s fundraising strategy and ensure its successful delivery.
- Lead and inspire the fundraising team, embedding a culture of collaboration and innovation.
- Manage and grow relationships with major donors, creating inspiring supporter journeys that encourage long-term engagement.
- Oversee budgets, systems, and processes to ensure efficiency and compliance with fundraising regulations.
- Work closely with marketing and service teams to develop compelling cases for support and impactful campaigns.
About You:
We’re looking for someone who is:
- Experienced: Proven track record in fundraising leadership, major donor cultivation, and strategic income growth.
- Innovative: Skilled in developing creative proposals and pitches that win hearts and minds.
- Collaborative: Able to work across teams and build strong relationships internally and externally.
- Values-driven: Committed to Life’s mission and able to champion our ethos in all fundraising activities.
Essential skills and experience include:
- Leadership of fundraising teams and strategy development.
- Expertise in major donor fundraising and supporter stewardship.
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
- Knowledge of compliance with fundraising codes and GDPR.
About Life:
Life is a UK charity for vulnerable women and families facing unexpected pregnancy or pregnancy loss. Life’s aim is to provide housing, care and support to vulnerable pregnant women (typically aged 16-25) who are in crisis situations, such as those facing homelessness (or at risk of), escaping abuse or other traumatic circumstances. We offer supported housing, a helpline and counselling service, and other practical and emotional support. Our services are inclusive; non-judgemental; and client-centred.
Our Values:
All our work is underpinned by the following universal human values:
- Humanity – All people are special and equal.
- Solidarity – We’re with you and for you.
- Community – We’re better together.
- Charity – Doing good for one another.
- Common good – Building a better world.
Information about the role:
For further information, please see the job description on our website.
Salary: £40,000 – £44,000 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week
Location: Home-Based with frequent travel to supporter locations and occasional travel to Head Office (Leamington Spa)
Please note that this vacancy may close earlier than the advertised closing date if a suitable candidate is found.
Benefits:
At Life we are passionate about providing our employees with a supportive and engaging environment. As well as ongoing development and training, we offer our:
- Generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year, plus 8 Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time hours)
- Birthday Leave (applicable after 1 years service)
- Extra annual leave for long term service
- Company Pension Scheme
- Signed member of the Menopause Workplace Pledge
Safeguarding and Equality:
Life is committed to protecting all staff, volunteers and service users from harm of any kind. Life expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct.
We are committed to ensuring diversity and equality within our organisation by encouraging applications from all backgrounds.
All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks. Life takes its obligation to protect the rights of children and vulnerable people very seriously; therefore, the successful candidate for this post will be also subject to extensive background checking, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS) which is paid for by the Charity.
Head of People and Culture
Permanent
c£65,000 pa
Location: Central London - hybrid working
Our client, a highly values-driven charity is now looking for an exceptional Head of People and Culture to lead the people strategy and shape a workplace where colleagues feel inspired, supported, and empowered to deliver meaningful impact.
The culture of this amazing organisation is collaborative, inclusive, and ambitious, with a strong focus on wellbeing and professional growth and where colleagues are empowered to innovate, challenge, and make a tangible difference every single day. Their people are truly at the heart of everything they do.
In this pivotal leadership role, you will:
- Define and deliver a forward-thinking HR strategy aligned to organisational priorities, with clear success metrics to track progress.
- Partner with senior leaders to identify skills gaps, build career pathways, and drive succession planning.
- Embed organisational effectiveness by fostering a high-performance culture, integrating wellbeing, and championing continuous improvement.
- Lead strategic programmes that strengthen leadership capability, grow organisational capacity, and embed inclusive behaviours.
- Promote digital transformation, hybrid working, and collaboration, ensuring that people with lived experience are actively involved in shaping ways of working.
- Provide high-quality HR insights and analysis to inform decision-making, while managing the HR budget to maximise impact and sustainability.
About you: You will be MCIPD qualified (or equivalent) with a proven track record of leading high-performing HR teams in a similar people-focused and mission and values driven organisation. You'll bring expertise in organisational design, cultural change, and leadership development, alongside strong stakeholder management skills and data literacy. Experience of driving equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives is essential, as is the confidence and ability to inspire and influence at all levels.
Please note: The application process is moving quickly, with interviews taking place next week. If you're ready to lead and inspire, apply today!
We’re looking for a dynamic Head of Governance & Business Administration to play a pivotal role in ensuring our organisation runs with integrity, transparency, and impact. This is an exciting opportunity to influence how one of the UK’s most ambitious cultural organisations operates as we grow and evolve.
In this role, you’ll lead on governance, risk management, and compliance, acting as Company Secretary and Data Protection Officer. You’ll oversee business planning and reporting, legal and insurance matters, procurement, and organisational policies – ensuring everything we do meets the highest standards.
You’ll work closely with our Executive Director, Board of Trustees, and senior leadership team, building strong relationships and driving change that supports our vision for equality, inclusion, and sustainability.
JOB SUMMARY
To ensure that efficient governance, operational systems and controls are in place to manage Factory International’s Governance and Business Administration function.
This includes governance and acting as Company secretariat, data protection and acting as Data Protection Officer, accountable for Business Plan Reporting, internal communication, oversight of Legal & Compliance, Risk Management, Insurance, Policies & Procedures and Procurement
The key responsibilities for the Head of Governance & Business Administration include;
Governance & Risk
- Ensure robust governance frameworks and compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements
- Coordinate Board and Committee meetings, including scheduling, agenda preparation, and distribution of papers
- Maintain statutory registers and ensure timely filing of returns and documents with regulatory bodies
- Support FI Executive and Board in proactively managing risk, and accurately reflecting via the Company Risk register, working closely with Directors to ensure quarterly updates are shared with the Executive Leadership and Board of Trustees (including relevant sub-committees)
- Maintain consistency and compliance for all internal communication channels
Business Planning & Reporting
- Act as the organisational lead for Business Plan Reporting, ensuring alignment across all key grant funding agreements and business plan KPIs
- Oversee the annual cycle of statutory reporting to both public sector funders and trustees including all ad-hoc reporting requests across the business
- Attend key external stakeholder meetings with the Executive Director (e.g. MCC, ACE, GMCA) relating to reporting against grant agreements etc
- Work closely with key Directors, Commercial Leads (including the Trusts & Foundations Manager) on funding bids ensuring that commitments are consistent with our agreed internal Business Plan targets and objectives
Legal, Insurance, Data Protection & Compliance
- Ensure legislative and regulatory compliance in all systems and procedures around business administration
- Acting as lead organisational contact and budget holder for external legal support ensuring consistent processes are followed and value for money is achieved to meet the strategic needs of the business
- Ensure adequate data protection in place, devise and implement any additional process and/or training, and act as DPO, accessing external advice as appropriate
- Where required, support the achievement of essential consents such as Planning, Licence variations, Building Control, etc
- Manage the relationship with FI’s insurance broker, working with the Executive Director and Finance Director to ensure appropriate cover and regularly review policies. Overseeing the appropriate claiming of all losses
Procurement
- Acting as lead organisational contact for all Procurement Activity – working closely with the Executive Director to ensure consistent processes are followed and value for money is achieved to meet the strategic needs of the business
- Maintain oversight of the register of planned Procurement as well as responding to un-planned procurement requirements – working closely with relevant Directors and Executives
Policies & Procedures
- Overall responsibility for control and oversight of the organisation’s suite of policies and procedures, including requests for new procedures
- Ensure that key policies are updated by business owners and renewed as per the agreed schedule – ensuring a consistency of tone, content and that relevant checks/approvals have been managed at the appropriate level (Exec, Trustees etc)
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Use your finance skills to support Feba’s mission and growth strategy to inspire more of the world’s least reached people to follow Jesus.
About us
At Feba, we are passionate about God’s mission and the creative use of radio and audio media to inspire people to follow Jesus. We have a particular heart for people in contexts considered closed, where people might not hear the gospel by any other means or where it’s difficult to be a Christian. These people probably won’t be reached without us, and radio and audio media provide a way of reaching them at scale.
About our development
Since we were established 65 years ago as a shortwave radio ministry much has changed with big shifts in technology, missiology and geopolitics.
We no longer operate radio infrastructure or ‘send’ missionaries from the UK. Instead, we support local people with training, expertise and funding to produce culturally appropriate programmes in a listener’s ‘heart language’ - and to follow up in-person wherever possible.
Our locally-led approach, in line with best-practice in Christian mission, is having greater and more enduring impact, and has enabled our work to expand far beyond our original focus on South Asia to countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East.
About the role
Feba now seeks a Head of Finance and Financial Strategy to provide financial leadership and forward-thinking strategic input at a time of stability, financial strength and planned growth. This role will lead on reviewing and modernising financial processes and systems, developing and delivering strategic initiatives for good financial stewardship, planning new income-generation projects and helping to strengthen long-term financial sustainability beyond the next 10 years.
About you
We are seeking a strategically minded finance leader to bring new skills, rigour and energy to the management and oversight of our finances. You will bring knowledge of investment principles, strong technical accounting expertise, and a clear understanding of modern, effective financial systems and processes. You will be a committed follower of Christ and passionate about global mission.
If this sounds like you we would love to hear from you. For more details including how to apply please see the appointment details attached.
Closing date 3rd December.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Head of Fundraising and Partnerships
Salary: £46,000 - £50,000 per annum
Location: London
Our client is on a mission to tackle the high unemployment rate among adults with learning disabilities. Through their year-long traineeship programme, they equip participants with vital skills to become skilled baristas and expert café assistants, or to develop their capabilities as office managers and assistants. They are seeking an enthusiastic and engaged individual who has the passion and experience to drive their business forward.
As their very first Head of Fundraising and Partnerships, you will spearhead their strategy to generate the income necessary for maintaining their success and expanding their reach across London. They require an accomplished fundraiser with a proven background in implementing and delivering successful fundraising strategies, securing corporate sponsorships, and managing relationships with high-net-worth individuals, grant holders, and trustees. You will be working closely alongside their CEO, who has been actively leading the fundraising efforts until now.
The ideal candidate will possess the following:
- A strategic thinker with experience in creating and delivering successful fundraising strategies
- Excellent relationship-building skills and a proven track record in securing funding from trusts and foundations
- Strong organisational and project management abilities to navigate and coordinate fundraising activities across teams
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, able to engage diverse stakeholders effectively
- A proactive, results-driven mindset capable of adapting to a fast-paced environment
- Proven experience in fundraising, partnership management, or business development
- A genuine passion for supporting individuals within the disability community
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement a strategic fundraising outreach plan to build a sustainable pipeline of potential donors and partners
- Identify, cultivate, and secure significant funding from trusts, foundations, and major donors
- Design and deliver a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with the organisation's programme ambitions
- Build on established relationships with HNWIs and corporate partners while expanding engagement opportunities
- Manage the marketing team to ensure successful execution of campaigns aligned with fundraising goals
Our client prides themselves on cultivating an inclusive culture where every individual feels valued and respected. They encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences to help ensure that their team reflects the communities they serve.
To apply, please email your CV. Join them in making a meaningful impact in the lives of adults with learning disabilities!
Are you ready to lead transformational growth in public fundraising?
We’re seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to join our senior team as Head of Public Fundraising. This is a pivotal role, reporting to the Director of Income Generation & Engagement, where you’ll shape the future of our fundraising programmes and deliver ambitious income targets through a high-performing team.
You’ll oversee a diverse portfolio—Community Fundraising, Events, Legacies, Individual Giving, Trading—and lead our Supporter Care team. With 27 talented colleagues (including four direct reports), you’ll drive innovation, champion collaboration, and ensure an exceptional supporter experience.
Why join us?
- Be part of a senior leadership team shaping organisational strategy and culture.
- Lead a dynamic team through an exciting period of growth and change.
- Drive investment and innovation across multiple fundraising streams to maximise impact.
About You
· Proven senior leadership: Extensive experience operating at Head of Department level, successfully leading high-performing public fundraising teams to deliver income exceeding £7 million, while driving organisational growth and innovation.
· Strategic income generation expertise: Demonstrated ability to design and implement sustainable growth strategies across Individual Giving, Legacy, and Events, incorporating innovative approaches to maximise supporter engagement and lifetime value.
· Supporter-centric approach: Skilled in developing strategies that elevate engagement and deliver exceptional supporter experiences, leveraging audience insight and relationship management to increase acquisition, conversion, and retention.
· Financial and operational expertise: Strong track record in setting budgets, forecasting income, and producing performance reports for senior leadership and trustees, ensuring data-driven decision-making and accountability.
If this sounds like you – we’d love to hear from you!
About working for us
This is a fast-paced organisation that is committed to making a difference.
Being a part of our team is being part of a thriving, positive, dynamic, successful, and welcoming community that is making an impact. We will support you and develop you should you wish this, and you get the opportunity to be involved in activities outside the scope of your immediate role. We care about your health and well-being and your work-life balance, and you will feel that your contribution is valued and matters.
About us
We are Pancreatic Cancer UK. We go above and beyond for everyone affected by this disease.
Right now, half of people with pancreatic cancer die within three months of diagnosis. Families are left with only hope to hold onto. They need more. So we do more.
We bring more break throughs through research, more change through campaigning and more support through our expert nurses.
We make more noise because people have gone unheard. We are relentless because the disease is ruthless. We care more because people feel forgotten.
Because people with pancreatic cancer need more than hope.
Underpinning this vision are our three values:
· Courage
· Compassion
· Community
We cannot achieve our vision without employing people who are committed to our vision, strategy, and values.
At Pancreatic Cancer UK (PCUK) our ambition is to create an inclusive working environment that reflects the communities and audiences that we engage with and where everyone can be their true selves, where they feel respected, championed, heard, and supported. We want our workforce to achieve their potential, understand their contribution and feel proud of their impact by creating a culture and organisation that is genuinely inclusive by advancing equality, diversity, inclusion, and belonging through our policies and practices.
We believe diversity drives great outcomes by encouraging the different points of view that come from a diverse workforce. We want to hear from and engage with people whose experience of dealing with this disease may be very different depending on their individual circumstances and background. We can think of no better way to do this than by making sure this role fully represents our intent; therefore, we are especially keen to consider applications from suitable applicants who consider themselves to be in areas that appear underrepresented within the charity sector.
Safeguarding
PCUK is committed to safe and fair recruitment processes that safeguard and protect those we work with, support and serve. We make sure all our staff are selected, vetted (DBS/Criminal record checks where appropriate), trained, and supervised fairly and to a high standard so that they can provide safe, effective and compassionate care. Where we work with volunteers, we extend the same support in order to ensure that they are working within our ethos and standards.
Hybrid-working:
Our London office is a place to connect, collaborate and celebrate with colleagues, we recognise that flexibility around where you work is just as important. We are currently working hybrid with a minimum of 2-3 days in the office. This is an office-based role where you may be required to be in the office more frequently to attend activities and meetings depending on the needs of the role.
How to apply
- You can download the Job Description and Person Specification on our website for full details of the role. If you have any questions about this role that we’ve not answered, please get in touch with Julie Roberts (contact details are on our website).
- To apply, please complete the online application form, setting out why you are interested in the role and how you meet the person specification criteria. This information will be used to select candidates for interviews.
- You will need to have the right to work in the UK as we are not able to provide sponsorship for this role.
- The interviews will be held in our London office, Queen Elizabeth House, 4 St Dunstan’s Hill, London EC3R 8AD.
- The first-round interviews will be on the 9th and 10th December 2025
- The second-round interviews will be on the 16th and 17th December 2025.
No agencies/sales call please – as a charity we work hard to keep our costs down and therefore will not be engaging agencies to support this recruitment.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Head of Marketing & Communications
Location: Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP
Salary: £50,000 per annum
Hours: Full Time – 40 Hours per week
Contract: Permanent
About the role
The Head of Marketing and Communications plays a leading role in developing the gallery’s brand, growing and diversifying audiences, and strengthening the visibility of the organisation locally, nationally and internationally. Working closely with the Director and Senior Management Team (SMT), this pivotal role is instrumental in helping to meet the gallery’s objectives to increase footfall and digital engagement, strengthen relationships with existing visitors and develop new audiences. This post-holder plays a central role with the Director in maintaining the artistic reputation and profile of Modern Art Oxford as one of the UK’s most ambitious and influential contemporary art organisations, and driving ambitious marketing and communications campaigns.
The position is responsible for developing and delivering the gallery’s audience development, communications and digital strategies, and plays a central role in nurturing relationships with stakeholders, including press, partners, artists and audiences. Ensuring compliance with data protection legislation and championing the gallery’s value of equality, diversity and inclusion are central to this role.
Reporting to the Director and forming part of the Senior Management Team, the Head of Marketing and Communications is a full time position which manages and is supported by a full-time Marketing Manager and a full-time Design and Communications Officer, with freelance support on press/PR and design as required for specific exhibitions and projects.
Principal Responsibilities
Marketing and Communications
- To grow and diversify Modern Art Oxford’s visiting and online audiences by leading audience development, communications and digital marketing strategies that will enable the organisation to build on its brand and profile, and strengthen its visibility in Oxford, the UK and beyond.
- To develop and oversee implementation of all marketing, communications and PR activity including media relations, social media and digital activity, development of marketing and branding collateral, and on-site interpretation.
- To formulate with the direction of the Director a transformational vision for the use of digital technologies to drive engagement and interaction with our online audiences.
- To manage effective and efficient relationships with any external PR and marketing consultants and companies.
- To develop and nurture key stakeholder, media and marketing relationships and partnerships and cultivate new relationships to ensure that our profile is high locally, nationally and internationally, and that our position as a leading tourist attraction in Oxfordshire and the South East grows.
- To strategically develop distinctive and innovative digital content, working closely and in creative collaboration with the Head of Exhibitions, Head of Communities, Participation and Practice as well as the wider Marketing and Communications team.
- To work with colleagues to strengthen visitor experience and engagement, both on-site and digitally, to increase profile and ensure that the organisation continues to thrive as one of the UK’s leading contemporary art spaces.
- To work closely with the SMT to drive audience research, development and evaluation, ensuring that the gallery attracts significant visitor numbers and closely addresses our stakeholder priorities.
- To manage the Marketing Manager and the Design and Communications Officer positions.
Fundraising and Finance
- To attend events at Modern Art Oxford and externally to represent the gallery and build relationships with key external stakeholders. Occasional weekend and evening work will be required.
- To ensure tight, clear, budgetary setting, control and regular re-forecasting against targets working with the Head of Finance.
- To work closely with the Head of Development to support new fundraising initiatives and partnerships as required.
- To regularly review all communications activities, suppliers and resources to ensure best value for money.
- To prepare reports as required by Arts Council England and Oxford City Council and other funders/stakeholders in relation to digital, marketing and communications activities.
General
- To support the work of the gallery in strengthening the equality, diversity and inclusivity of the working environment and practices.
- To ensure team management and cross-departmental work is effective and timely in achieving annual targets.
- To ensure that Modern Art Oxford complies with all aspects of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in relation to marketing and communication activities with audiences, stakeholders and any other third parties.
- To participate in training and development activities as required and assist with the training and development of colleagues.
- To carry out all duties in accordance with all Modern Art Oxford’s policies including Equal Opportunities, Access, Employment, Health and Safety, Child Safeguarding, Data Protection and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policies and the Creative Case for Diversity.
- To report to Modern Art Oxford’s Board of Trustees when requested.
- To undertake any other duties as reasonably required by the Director.
Person Specification
- Experience of running a Marketing and Communications team at a senior level within an arts organisation or similar field
- Experience of leading on mixed marketing campaigns, including setting measurable targets
- Significant experience of managing and motivating teams and being a supportive and encouraging team player
- Excellent arts press contacts and/or partnership development experience.
- Demonstrable experience of audience research, segmentation and development
- A strategic and analytical thinker able to devise, implement and report on strategies and to evaluate data using platforms such as Google Analytics and AdWords and experience of SEO, Content Management Systems, and social media platforms and analytics.
- An ability to prioritise competing workloads and work effectively under pressure in a fast paced and leanly resourced working environment
- Strong project management skills, including budget management
- An inspiring and creative thinker with ambition, vision and enthusiasm
- Self-motivated, positive, flexible and reliable
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- A strong affinity with the values and mission of Modern Art Oxford and a passion and enthusiasm for the visual arts, with a belief in the importance of artists and the power of art to have a transformational effect in society
About Us
Modern Art Oxford is one of the UK’s most exciting and influential contemporary art organisations, renowned for its bold and ambitious artistic programme that promotes diversity and internationalism and celebrates contemporary art as a progressive agent of social change.
Modern Art Oxford welcomes approximately 100,000 visitors each year with approximately 15,000 attendances by schools and community groups in creative learning and participation activities. The organisation’s digital content reaches 450,000 through Modern Art Oxford’s digital channels annually. Through a wide range of high-quality content creation and programming, Modern Art Oxford aims to make contemporary art accessible and engaging to the widest audience and to promote creativity in all its visual forms. Over the last 60 years Modern Art Oxford has brought some of the world’s most important artists to the city, and the UK, and has developed an international reputation for pioneering emerging and under-represented artists.
Modern Art Oxford is a registered charity and receives core funding from Arts Council England and Oxford City Council, and the generous support of individuals, trusts and foundations, sponsors and friends.
Benefits
- Pension
- An auto-enrolment pension scheme is in place with Legal & General. Under pension auto enrolment legislation, the employee will pay 5% (before tax relief) and the employer will pay 3% of qualifying earnings to the Legal and General plan.
- Holiday 25 days annual leave plus eight public bank holidays
- Staff discount in Cafe and shop
Closing date for Applications is Midnight on Sunday 14th December 2025
Interviews for the role will be Friday 19th December 2025
Interested?
If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.
No agencies please.
Contract start date: 1 March 2026
At Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex we have an exciting opportunity for a creative and experienced learning and public engagement specialist to join our Senior Leadership Team to lead a newly structured department. Reporting to the Director of Wakehurst, this role will help to deliver our mission by leading formal and informal learning, participation and events, delivering inspiring and informative experiences and content and connecting people to nature through Wakehurst’s designed and wilder landscapes, conservation, and research programmes.
Our ideal candidate is a dynamic leader with a passion for connecting people to nature. You’ll bring a proven track record of creating inspiring visitor experiences and events that drive attendance and income, alongside confidence in leading multi-disciplinary teams and collaborating internally and externally. With strong strategic thinking and hands-on delivery skills, you’ll manage complex projects, budgets, and KPIs while championing accessibility, safeguarding, and EDI best practice.
Experience in fundraising, ticketing strategy, and audience engagement is essential and we’re looking for someone with excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder engagement skills. A background in botanic science, conservation, or biodiversity is a bonus.
First interviews w/c 8 December. Second round interviews if required w/c 15 December.
This role is based at Wakehurst with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.
We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.
Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
If you are interested in this position, please find out more by clicking “Apply”.
We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.
No agencies please.
Martingale Postgraduate Foundation (Martingale) exists to fund and support the next generation of talented researchers. We believe that family income should not be a barrier to the pursuit of excellence, and our mission is to enable and nurture talented individuals from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to thrive within world-leading postgraduate research.
Martingale’s flagship programme is the Martingale Postgraduate Scholarship, which supports students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to pursue and excel in postgraduate degrees, by providing:
- A fully-funded Living Wage Scholarship to pursue a one-year Masters degree or a four-year PhD.
- All tuition fees and research expenses, including a tax-free stipend for living costs.
- Tailored support to apply for Martingale courses at our partner universities.
- Access to Martingale programmes, including leadership training and connections with top academic and industry professionals.
- Membership of a pioneering community of talented researchers.
In the three years since Martingale launched, we are now supporting over 100 Scholars to undertake postgraduate degrees across our ten partner universities and have committed over £7.7m in Scholarships. We are continuing to expand our offer, bringing on new partners each year.
We are seeking an experienced, strategic and collaborative Head of Communications and External Engagement to join our Senior Leadership Team and play a pivotal role in shaping Martingale’s external profile, strategic partnerships, and policy influence.
As Head of Communications and External Engagement, you will join our growing senior management team, overseeing several critical aspects of Martingale’s work: communications and recruitment; partnerships and fundraising; and policy and advocacy. Working closely with the CEO, you will oversee all aspect of Martingale’s external communications and engagement to ensure Martingale’s success.
You will set the strategic direction of Martingale’s external positioning, working closely with the CEO on a day-to-day basis to ensure that our communications, partnerships and policy activity is aligned and meeting Martingale’s mission. You will ensure that Martingale’s messaging is consistent, with a bold brand presence and strong collaboration with various external stakeholders including funders, universities, media, and government.
We are looking for a strong communicator with extensive leadership experience including line management, partnership management and external relations. You will bring excellent organisational skills, strong attention to detail, a proactive mindset, and a strong alignment with Martingale’s mission. We welcome applicants from a range of career paths who are excited to be part of a growing, fast-paced charity delivering meaningful impact.
Martingale Foundation is incubated by Purposeful Ventures who provide operational and strategic support. The Head of Communications and External Engagement will be employed by Purposeful Ventures.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and deliver a clear, bold strategy for communications, policy, and partnerships aligned with Martingale’s vision and growth.
- Lead the development of Martingale’s voice, ensuring consistency across all external channels and stakeholder interactions.
- Act as a senior leader within the organisation, contributing to overall strategic planning.
Communications & Brand
- Oversee all external communications, campaigns and media engagement, strengthening Martingale’s profile and influence.
- Manage content strategy, digital channels, storytelling and brand evolution.
- Ensure high-quality and accessible communications across print, digital, and in-person events.
Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
- Maintain and grow relationships with Martingale’s university, philanthropic, and other partners.
- Collaborate with the CEO on fundraising engagement strategies and impact storytelling.
- Oversee ambassador engagement and support Martingale’s national and regional events.
Policy & Advocacy
- Lead Martingale’s policy and advocacy work to shape the future of postgraduate access and equity.
- Along with the CEO, represent Martingale in external forums, responding to consultations and influencing key stakeholders in research and education policy.
- Collaborate with researchers and partners to generate evidence and drive systems change.
Team Leadership & Management
- Line manage team leads across communications and partnerships, with oversight of a team of four.
- Support the professional development of the team, ensuring alignment with Martingale’s values and goals.
- Foster a collaborative, agile, and inclusive culture within and across teams.
- The post holder will carry out any other duties as are within the scope, spirit, and purpose of the role as requested by the line manager.
Key Requirements:
Essential Criteria
- Right to work in the UK
Experience and skills
Essential
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences including senior stakeholders.
- Significant senior-level experience in communications, policy, or external relations within a mission-driven organisation.
- Proven experience line managing a multi-person team, including managing people who manage others.
- Strong track record of developing and delivering high-impact external engagement strategies.
- Excellent communication skills — strategic thinking combined with hands-on content expertise.
- Experience managing and cultivating high-value partnerships or donor relationships.
- Understanding of UK education, social mobility, or research funding landscapes.
- Proven experience in account management, managing multiple external stakeholder relationships and partnerships successfully.
- Advanced IT proficiency: Spreadsheet, Word Processing, CRM or Databases, Email, Web-based applications.
Desirable
- Experience working with or within higher education or research organisations.
- Familiarity with charity fundraising or philanthropic communications.
- Experience delivering communications in a startup or scale-up environment.
- Experience in working with governance boards and/or trustees.
- Experience delivering / overseeing ambitious recruitment campaigns.
Personal Characteristics
- Excellent interpersonal skills: able to build rapport and trusting relationships, able to work co-operatively in a multidisciplinary setting.
- A commitment to Martingale’s mission to support postgraduate students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Comfortable working in a rapidly growing and changing organisation with a degree of ambiguity – confident to create processes and ways forward where they might not yet exist.
- Creative and innovative: willing to think outside the box to maximise reach.
- Resourceful, able to act on initiative, hardworking, detail-oriented, and systematic.
Benefits:
- 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising to 29 days after two years of service and to 30 days after three years of service. This entitlement is pro rata for part-time employees. This entitlement excludes bank holidays.
- Full office closure between Christmas and New Year.
- A flexible approach to working with understanding and consideration for work-life balance and personal commitments.
- As a Purposeful Ventures employee, you will have the opportunity to be part of the TPT (The Pension Trust) scheme, our workplace pension scheme, where we make an 11% contribution; you are not required to contribute towards this scheme unless you choose to.
- Access to Charlie Perks, offering discounts and rewards at over 30,000 brands and retailers.
Our mission is to enable and nurture talented individuals from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to become a new generation of STEM leaders.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Head of strategic research development
Location: Contracted to our Peterborough office with the flexibility for hybrid working
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full time 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £50,000 - £55,000 depending on experience
Benefits: We want all our employees to feel valued and engaged and are committed to offering a positive working culture along with a good work-life balance. As well as ensuring we pay our employees fairly, we offer the following benefits: Flexible working, Generous annual leave, Private Medical Insurance, including dental and optical, Pension Scheme, Sick Pay, Death in Service, Employee Assistance Programme, Bike Loan Scheme, Cycle2Work Scheme, Eyecare, Discount Portal
Closing date: Wednesday 3 December 2025
Telephone interviews will be held week commencing 8 December 2025
Interviews will be held week commencing 15 December 2025
No agencies please
Be a part of an energetic and vibrant team who are driven by the desire to improve the lives of people living with kidney disease. Our vision is the day when everyone lives free from kidney disease.
Reporting into the director of research development and partnerships, the head of strategic research development leads the development and delivery of Kidney Research UK’s research strategy in our priority and emerging research areas, working closely with our research and health system-facing teams.
The role is responsible for horizon scanning and translating strategic priorities into deliverable research funding initiatives, mobilising multi-partner collaborations that accelerate progress from concept to delivery.
The post-holder will also provide line management for the research programme managers, offering direction, guidance and professional development to ensure coherent delivery across research themes and initiatives.
As a senior member of the team, the post-holder will deputise for the director of research development and partnerships as required, representing the charity with senior stakeholders, making timely decisions, and ensuring strategic continuity across portfolios.
You will have experience in research strategy, development, funding or portfolio management within the health, biomedical or life sciences sector. You’ll combine strategic insight into how research is funded and evaluated with the ability to lead and inspire others, fostering professional growth and wellbeing.
You will be a strategic thinker, confident and assertive, able to make sound decisions, delegate effectively and keep processes moving at pace. Strong communication skills (written, verbal and interpersonal) will enable you to work well across teams, build productive relationships with colleagues, and to influence and liaise effectively with external stakeholders.
If you are interested in the position, please complete the online application form and submit together with your CV.
We are committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone and encourage applications from all sections of the community.
About Kidney Research UK:
Kidney Research UK is the leading charity in the UK focused on funding research into the prevention, treatment and management of kidney disease. Our vision is the day when everyone lives free from kidney disease and for more than 60 years the research, we fund has been making an impact. But kidney disease is increasing as are the factors contributing to it, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity, making our work more essential than ever.
At Kidney Research UK we work with clinicians and scientists across the UK, funding and facilitating research into all areas of kidney disease. We collaborate with partners across the public, private and third sectors to prevent kidney disease and drive innovation to transform treatments.
Over the last ten years we have invested more than £71 million into research. We lobby governments and decision makers to change policy and practice to ensure that the estimated 7.2 million people living with all stages of kidney disease in the UK have access to the most effective care and treatment, and to make kidney disease a priority.
Most importantly, we also work closely with patients, ensuring their voice is heard and is at the centre of everything we do, from deciding which research to invest in to how we plan our priorities and our work across the charity.
Those patient contributions are vital, always helping us and our partners to understand what life is like with kidney disease, always ensuring we see the patient behind the treatment and always reminding us that behind every statistic and every number is a person – the patients and the carers who inspire our mission and push us forward to make a difference and change the future of kidney disease.
You may also have experience in the following: Strategic Research Development, Research Strategy Lead, Health Research Leadership, Biomedical Research, Life Sciences Research, Research Portfolio Management, Research Funding Initiatives, Research Strategy Development, Multi-partner Collaboration, Project/Programme Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Decision-making & Strategic Planning, Funding Evaluation, Policy & Research Translation, Line Management, Team Leadership, Senior Stakeholder Liaison, Charity, Charities, Third Sector, Not for Profit, NFP, etc.
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