Head of programmes and impact jobs

The Difference is an education charity, founded to change the story on lost learning. Our vision is to see lost learning falling nationally by 2030 and for schools to be better equipped to support all children, particularly those most vulnerable.

We are a small, growing charity delivering many school leadership programmes, with a growing research and policy arm. We have had excellent early impact but there is work ahead to capture this, share learning with schools and policy-makers, and campaign to lower exclusions across England.

The Role
This is an exciting time to join The Difference as we increase our impact, reach more schools, and develop our influencing strategy. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs you will: 
 

Design and execute an impactful influencing plan 

• Design an influencing plan - Identify via horizon scanning opportunities to influence national policy using open policy windows, or by nudging/creating new ones. 

• Execute an influencing plan - Utilise own assets and assets across the organisation, including the Director team, to deliver against the influencing plan.

• Relationship building - Build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders who hold power. This will include policy makers in national governments, local government officials, politicians, other third sector organisations and think tanks. 

• Leadership - Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational and own brand.

Build policy capacity and credibility across the organisation

• Policy positions and solutions- Use the concepts, work and experience of The Difference’s programmes to develop new, and refine existing, national policy positions to shift incentives. 

• Thought leadership - Be the organisation’s education policy and political expert. 

• Generating income - Use own and team’s expertise and credibility to generate income via speaking engagements and consultancy to support the organisation’s financial sustainability. 

Person Specification

Essential – We are looking for someone with the following knowledge, experience and skills, though you may be stronger in some areas than others:
 

• Deep expertise in education policy, particularly on the topic of lost learning and the various policy and political debates, including areas of controversy, surrounding this policy topic. 

• Strategic thinker with a proven track record in identifying policy windows and designing activities that lead to meaningful national policy change. 

• Excellent relationship builder, who brings with them their own network of influential stakeholders and has a plan for building new relationships. Adept at navigating tricky situations and explaining complex, sometimes difficult, messages.

• Expert convener with a strong knowledge of the education sector, including which schools, trusts and local authorities are influential and experience in bringing a variety of perspectives together to generate consensus. 

• Persuasive and clear writing style for publication, including reports, press, blogs and ghost writing for members of the senior leadership team, often based on consensus positions, and designed to communicate key messages for impact. 

• Confidence and credibility in communicating nuanced messages in a contentious landscape, in writing, verbally and in public (e.g. on panels), to raise the profile of The Difference. 

• Strong project manager who can design systems and processes to keep self, team and other stakeholders on task and on time. Experience of designing programmes of work and monitoring their effectiveness. Flexible project management style that can adapt to a changing environment. Confidence in managing a variety of stakeholders and supporting them to deliver on time. 

Desired – You are more likely to be successful in your application if you have one or more of the following: 

• Familiarity with The Difference’s programmatic work, theory and practice. 

• Lived experience or insight into the school experiences of marginalised young people (e.g. those with experience of the care system, mental ill health, special educational needs, exclusion, and racism).

We know that some people, especially those from marginalised backgrounds, may hesitate to apply unless they meet every listed requirement. If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution, we warmly encourage you to apply. 

We actively welcome applications from people whose backgrounds are under-represented in the charity sector, including but not limited to: people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people with experience in the case system, non-graduates and first-in-family graduates.

Role description:

We are excited to be seeking a talented and motivated individual to join Southampton Hospitals Charity as our Grants Manager.

This role will provide the right candidate with a rare opportunity to implement, embed and oversee the delivery of the Charity’s £2.5 million dedicated grant programmes from pre to post award.

Covering four programmes (Patient Care, Research & Development, Clinical Innovation and Staff Education & Improvement), the post holder will be responsible for managing circa £2.5M of expenditure each year, ensuring they deliver impact for patients, staff and donors.

This is a unique opportunity to work within the hospital environment where the projects we fund are delivered, supporting clinical staff to access funding to directly improve patient care. You will be vital in cultivating these in-hospital relationships.

This role will be key, as continue our ambitious new strategy to grow our reach and impact, and this opportunity offers the right candidate the chance to implement new ways of working as part of the management team.

We are looking for a passionate individual with the drive to deliver this programme of work, but most important they will believe in the Charity’s mission and ensure that every aspect of our work supports its delivery.

Main responsibilities

Grant Management & Compliance

• Oversee the delivery of the charity’s dedicated grant programmes from pre to post award: Patient Care, Research & Development, Clinical Innovation and Staff Education & Improvement. The post holder will be responsible for circa £2.5M expenditure per annum ensuring they deliver impact for patients, staff and donors (grant values typically range from £2K to <£0.5M).
• Oversee the management of the charity's current grant portfolio; ensuring grants are delivered on time and in accordance with internal processes.
• Ensure compliance with financial obligations (inc. payments, reconciliations and audits) and regulatory obligations (inc. data management, grant award contracts, procurement).
• Ensure grant making processes reflects and champion current best practice.
• Develop and implement a Grants Advisory Committee.

Relationship & Stakeholder Management

• Build relationships with key stakeholders within University Hospital Southampton NHS Trust (UHS), including senior health professionals, executive team members, partners and beneficiaries.
• Work to embed the grants programmes within the hospital environment and work with UHS staff to support them in access funding through working within the hospital and regular visits to clinical areas.
• Act as primary liaison for the Charity’s grant making responsibilities, ensuring alignment with charitable objectives and 2024-2027 strategic mission 
• Provide support to Director of Operations and Resources and the Senior Leadership Team, fostering a collaborative approach to grant programme delivery in tandem with fundraising, communication and art programme goals.
• Represent the organisation at meetings, attending hospital site visits, events and other external facing activities as required.
• Implement hybrid applicant and grantee support functions (e.g. webinars, Q&A events, promotional events, annual learning events).

Strategic Planning & Funding Prioritisation

• Lead the development of the Charity’s grant-making function, working with internal and external stakeholders in identifying key funding priorities that align with the Charity’s mission and future goals.
• Develop strategies for allocating resources effectively and the ongoing review of grant programmes (aiming for continual improvement).
• Develop strategies for working in partnership with UHS for joint decision making, the effective management of capital awards and high value grant requests.
• Identify new grant opportunities and potential partnerships to diversify funding streams.
• Maximise grant impact by contributing to the business planning process.

Evaluation, Reporting & Impact

• Oversee processes for effective grant monitoring, reporting and analysis of grants portfolio.
• Develop and implement an evaluation framework for the charity’s grants programme, ensuring this is embedded and linked to organisation wide reporting mechanisms and measurable outcomes are achieved.
• Use data and insights to inform the continuous improvement of grant-making practices and programme development.
• Utilise information captured to promote grant programmes and support Fundraising and Communications Directorate.
• Support the Grants and Impact Officer.

General

• Support the line management and continuing professional development of the grants team.
• Ensure content and material is in line with Directorate of Fundraising and Communications for marketing, publications, website and social media responsibilities.
• Support the wider work of the organisation, contributing to all staff events/meetings as required.
• Support the Director of Operations and Resources in the preparation of necessary Trustee reports, annual reports and impact reports.
• Support EDI journey.

Knowledge and experience

• Substantial experience in grants management, within a relevant not-for-profit setting (e.g. healthcare charity). Post holder must be proficient with pre and post award responsibilities including assessment.
• Demonstrable track record of contributing to organisational strategy.
• Demonstrable track record of utilising grants management systems.
• Demonstrable track record of budget management.
• Proven ability in managing impact measurement of charitable programmes.
• Proven ability in Committee Management.

Skills, abilities, and behaviours

• Strong attention to detail.
• Financially proficient.
• IT proficient.
• Excellent problem solver.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong strategic thinking with excellent leadership skills and experience in managing and developing others.
• A passion for the Charity’s mission and a commitment to delivering high-impact programmes that enhances patient care.

As the Project Manager - Data Programmes, you'll work closely with our Head of Data Science and Head of Volunteer Programmes to triage, scope, and manage our projects and to ensure we deliver impactful, responsible data science solutions for our partners. This includes leading and managing some of our key support programmes.

You'll be part of a kind and collaborative five-person staff team, and will work closely with our talented community of volunteer data scientists. This is an exciting and unusual opportunity to shape how the third sector uses data. Join us!

About DataKind UK

DataKind UK is a small infrastructure charity with a vision of a strong, thriving third sector that embraces data science to become more impactful. Effective data use has the potential to transform an organisation's impact by improving decision-making, maximising operational efficiency, and ensuring service delivery is evidence-based. A lack of access to responsible data science skills and techniques in the third sector means it isn’t having the impact it could.

We provide a variety of free and contracted support services to help third sector organisations achieve their missions, encourage innovation, and improve decision making, problem solving, and practices.

Since 2013, more than 2,200 DataKind UK volunteers have supported over 300 charities—from large organisations like St John Ambulance and Action for Children to local food banks and campaigning charities—helping them better understand their users, evaluate what's working, streamline routine tasks, and ultimately better tackle society's biggest challenges. 

Who we’re looking for

We are looking for an experienced, people-oriented project manager who is excited to help us deliver and scale innovative data programmes. You will work directly with organisations from across the third sector to understand their missions and translate their challenges into well-scoped projects. You will also support teams of volunteer data experts to scope projects and deliver impactful data science solutions.

You don't need to write code or run analysis yourself, but you should be comfortable working alongside technical experts, asking the right questions to scope data projects, and translating between technical and non-technical stakeholders. You'll need to hold conversations with data scientists about what's feasible, help charity partners understand what's possible with their data, and know when to bring in additional technical expertise.

If you don’t have all the experience and skills listed below, please still consider applying. We don’t expect a candidate to have 100% of these, but we do want to know that you have relevant experience and an appetite to learn in other areas.

Essential skills and experience

• Project management: You are a skilled project manager, successfully leading projects involving multiple stakeholders from conception to completion. You have experience managing multiple projects at once and can successfully prioritise and juggle competing demands. You can plan ahead, allocate resources, identify and mitigate risks, and bring in additional expertise as required.
• Scoping and needs assessment: You have experience collaborating with clients/stakeholders to assess their challenges, translate them into project plans, evaluate their feasibility, and create delivery plans.
• Volunteer and/or people management: Experience recruiting, training, coordinating, or managing volunteers or managing people over whom you do not have direct authority (eg. contractors/freelancers). Comfortable leading multi-skilled teams in a remote-first environment, fostering collaboration within newly established groups.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and strong active listening skills. You have experience being the main liaison for a project or programme, providing regular updates to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. You’re not afraid to ask clarifying questions in areas that are new to you. You are skilled at distilling the key insights or next steps in project meetings to ensure clarity on the big picture and details.

Desirable

• Experience managing or delivering data-related or social tech projects.
• Experience volunteering or working with volunteers.
• Familiarity with CRMs and/or project management software.
• Experience working or volunteering in the UK nonprofit/charity sector.
• Knowledge of the UK nonprofit/charity landscape and common digital, data, or tech challenges facing third sector organisations.
• Understanding of privacy, ethics, or responsible data and AI.
• Experience with impact measurement or evaluation frameworks.

Qualities

• You are aligned with DataKind UK’s core values: curious, responsible, collaborative.
• You have an interest in data, are willing to work with technical volunteers, feel comfortable asking questions, and are keen to learn more!
• You are self-directed and goal-oriented, and like working independently.
• An approachable, friendly people-person, you enjoy building productive relationships with people from different backgrounds and experience levels, and communicating with a wide range of stakeholders.
• You thrive in an environment where every day is a bit different, and you are happy working flexibly and adaptively. 
• You are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. You believe and act in a way that celebrates and encourages a range of experiences, views, and values.
• You like to learn and can quickly absorb and synthesise information from new domains. You know what you don’t know and are comfortable asking questions or for help. You can switch between big-picture and detail-oriented thinking.
• You are a collaborative team player, and happy to jump in and support team members where needed. You care more that good things happen than who gets the credit.

Please download the full job description attachment for more detail about the role.

Working hours and location 

This is a full-time role (35 hours per week); however we will consider part-time options (28 or 32 hours per week) for a strong candidate. Working hours are flexible, but we ask that 75% of working time is within the hours of 10am and 6pm, to facilitate team working and real-time collaboration.

The role requires regular out-of-hours commitments - roughly one weekend per quarter and 2-4 evenings per month for volunteer events. This work is part of, rather than additional to, your hours, and you must take time off in lieu for any extra working hours.

Our organisation is remote-first, and this role is hybrid, with access to London office space on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and quarterly in-person commitments in London. We have a preference for candidates able to work from our office space in London at least one day per week. There may be occasional national travel within the UK for other events and conferences, with reasonable expenses covered.

You must have the right to work in the UK.

Benefits

• Working in a small, flexible, hybrid team where you are trusted to manage your time and your projects. If you need to take time out of the day to go to a dentist appointment or for your child’s school play, go ahead! We are focused on outputs over time spent at your desk.
• Onboarding and continual development of data science, analytical, and technical knowledge.
• 27 days of annual leave + 8 public holidays.
• 5% employer pension contribution.
• Employee Support plan.

How to apply

The deadline for receipt of your application is 9am GMT, Monday 16 February 2026. Applications received after this time will not be considered.

Please send us your CV and a cover letter of no more than two single-spaced pages addressing the following questions:

1. Why does this role appeal to you? 
2. How do you meet the experience, skills, and qualities listed above? (We recommend using the STAR (Situation Task Action Result) approach).
3. How would you approach scoping a project with a new partner or client?
4. How would you approach managing, supporting, and getting the best from a skilled team of volunteers?

All applications will be anonymised before shortlisting.

Timeline & Process

• If successful at the first stage, you will be invited to a 15-minute screening call via Zoom on 19/20/23 February.
• Interviews will be held on 25/26 February or 2 March via Zoom.

Please let us know if you have any accessibility requirements. Questions will be provided in advance. If prior important commitments impact your ability to attend the call/interview at these times, please let us know when you submit your application.

Equity & Diversity Monitoring

We are committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of their background, and welcome applications regardless of age, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, religion/belief, race, nationality, ethnicity, marital status, pregnancy, or disability. The data you provide will be used to monitor whether we are receiving applications from quality candidates across the whole of society. If there are differences in application rates it will enable action to be taken to ensure that no group is treated unfairly.

We particularly encourage applications from groups who are underrepresented in data science, tech, and/or the third sector, including people of colour and people with disabilities. We can make reasonable adjustments throughout the application process (both with the application and interview) and on the job. If you have particular accessibility needs, please get in touch and let us know any requirements you may have.

Head of Programmes / Programmes Director, Level Water

What we're building

Level Water exists to solve a problem that shouldn’t exist: too many disabled children are still missing out on high-quality swimming lessons.

We’ve built a delivery model that works. Families trust us. Pools want to work with us. Funders back us. We’re well-funded (80% unrestricted) and responding to growing demand.

Now we’re entering the next stage: scaling what works without losing quality, care, or joy. This role sits right at the heart of that mission - leading not just how our programmes are delivered, but how we define, measure, and grow our impact.

We’re Level Water - a founder-led charity solving unequal access to swimming for children with disabilities. We’re not a typical charity. We own our swim events and run them like a business, creating a sustainable income stream that directly funds our programmes. That model gives us the freedom to move fast, test ideas, and build something that doesn’t exist anywhere else.

Because we’re self-sustaining, we can make clear, confident decisions about our programme and impact direction. If you want to help tackle unequal access to sport - and shape how a modern charity designs, delivers, and measures programmes at scale - this is your chance.

The opportunity

This isn’t a “keep programmes running” role.

This is a build, lead, and scale a national delivery model role.

As Head of Programmes, you’ll own how Level Water’s programmes are designed, delivered, improved, and expanded. You’ll take a proven model, design for growth  and help turn it into something category-defining - working at pace, making smart decisions, and setting the standard for what inclusive swimming can look like across the UK.

You’ll work closely with the CEO and senior team, lead our brilliant programme function (a Training and Excellence Manager and Programmes Officer), and bring energy and momentum to a part of the organisation that sits right at the heart of our impact.

If you’re excited by growth, complexity, and building something that really matters, you’ll thrive here.

If you’re looking for a role where you can play it safe, this probably isn’t it.

What you’ll actually own

Programme design, quality & scale

• You’ll own how Level Water’s programmes are designed, delivered, and grown - now and into the future.

• Set the strategic direction for our lesson delivery model, ensuring it scales without losing quality, care, or joy.

• Lead and develop the Programmes team, setting clear priorities, standards, and ways of working.

• Ensure programmes are safe, inclusive, effective, and consistently high-quality as delivery expands.

• Build the systems and processes that make great delivery easier at scale, not harder.

Impact, learning & continuous improvement

• You’ll define how we understand, measure, and improve our impact - and use learning to drive better delivery.

• Ensure we gather meaningful insight from families, swimmers, teachers, and partners.

• Turn data and feedback into clear learning that actively shapes programme decisions.

• Lead Level Water’s approach to impact reporting for funders, partners, Trustees, and the Board, alongside the Senior Leadership Team.

• Set clear success measures and use them to guide prioritisation, iteration, and growth.

Strategic partnerships, funding & sector influence

• You’ll build the relationships and credibility that enable sustainable programme growth and wider change.

• Build and manage strategic partnerships with national pool operators and delivery partners.

• Secure and manage national agreements that unlock scale and improve access.

• Work closely with Fundraising to shape strong, realistic programme content for grants and funding proposals.

• Own the programme side of grant-funded delivery, ensuring work is well planned, delivered to a high standard, and reported with clarity and confidence.

• Represent Level Water externally as a credible, influential voice in inclusive swimming, helping to shift culture and practice across the sector.

Who we’re looking for

We care far more about how you work than where you’ve worked or what sector you come from. You don’t need a background in swimming. You don’t need charity experience. What matters is how you think, how you lead, and the energy you bring.

People who thrive here have:

• Ambition for growth. You’re excited by the moment where something good needs to scale - and you want to help shape what comes next, not just maintain what already exists.

• Ownership and momentum. You take responsibility, spot opportunities, and move things forward. You don’t wait for perfect information or permission before acting.

• The ability to hold strategy and delivery together. You can zoom out to set direction and zoom in to make sure things actually work - and you know when each is needed.

• Confidence leading through change. You’ve helped programmes or services evolve through growth, complexity, or transformation, and you’re comfortable making decisions in imperfect conditions.

• Strong relational leadership. You build trust quickly, bring people with you, and create credibility with partners, teams, and senior stakeholders.

• A solutions-first mindset. When things get complicated (and they will), you stay calm, pragmatic, and focused on what will move things forward.

Bonus points if:

• You’ve worked in a scale-up, start-up, or fast-growing organisation.

• You’ve built or reshaped delivery models, partnerships, or systems as things grew.

• You’re motivated by impact and inclusion, and want your work to genuinely change lives.

If this sounds like you - and you’re excited by the challenge of building something ambitious with real-world impact - we’d love to hear from you.

Why Level Water?

Our values - Bold, Driven, Personal, and Joyful - shape how this role shows up in practice. You’ll be expected to bring ambition, move with purpose, care deeply about people, and help build programmes that feel genuinely joyful to be part of.

Bold.
This isn’t a “run what already exists” role. You’ll challenge assumptions, set direction, and help shape the future of inclusive swimming. We want your judgement, your ideas, and your confidence to make clear calls.

Driven.
We’re growing fast, and programmes sit at the centre of that growth. If you’re ambitious about scale, impact, and building something that lasts, there's a real opportunity here to lead what comes next.

Personal.
We’re founder-led and people-first. You’ll work closely with families, partners, and colleagues, balancing high standards with empathy, clarity, and care.

Joyful.
Swimming should be positive, empowering, and fun - especially for children who’ve too often been excluded. You’ll help ensure our programmes don’t just deliver outcomes, but create experiences that build confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of the water.

Practical details:

• Flexible working: remote, hybrid, or (even better) office-based in Tunbridge Wells, your choice.

• You'll attend weekend events throughout the summer.

• Some travel required to pools, partners, and events (including occasional weekends)

• Salary: Head of: £46k-57k (depending on experience)

How to apply

We want to hear from you in whatever way best shows us who you are and how you think.

Get creative. We really want to get a feel for your personality and style. A traditional CV and cover letter? Great. A video introduction? Awesome. Whatever format helps you shine and show us who you are. 

Here's what we'd love to know:

1. What’s the boldest change you’ve delivered that improved outcomes for the people your programme existed to serve - and what did you personally do to make it happen?

Before you apply:

If you've got questions about the role, the team, or whether this might be right for you, please reach out. I'm Lucy Powell, Operations Director at Level Water, and I'd genuinely love to chat. 

Deadline: 

We're reviewing applications on a rolling basis and will close this advert once we've found the right person. So if this excites you, don't wait, but do take the time to show us who you really are. 

We'd rather see your best work than a rushed application. If you need a bit of time to put that together, talk to us.

We're excited to meet you. Let's build something brilliant together.

We’re offering an opportunity to support the delivery of the Trust’s flagship Lessons from Auschwitz Project, and the Trust’s Youth Advocacy Programme (AKA Ambassador Programme), including all content and quality assurance related to the delivery of a portfolio of activity that falls within these programmes. Ensuring that the young people we work with, through these programmes, understand what the Holocaust was, inspiring them to be part of ensuring this history is remembered, and empowering them to recognise and address antisemitism when they see it today. Driving our youth engagement strategy, developing high quality and empowering content, and advocating for youth engagement and youth advocacy.

About the Role
The Senior Programme Development Lead (Lessons from Auschwitz Project and Ambassador Programme) Maternity Cover is accountable for the delivery of the Trust’s flagship Lessons from Auschwitz Project, and the Trust’s Youth Advocacy Programme (AKA Ambassador Programme), including all content and quality assurance related to the delivery of a portfolio of activity that falls within these programmes. The remit of the Senior Programme Development Lead (Lessons from Auschwitz Project and Ambassador Programme) Maternity Cover will include two areas of leadership:

1. The continued development and delivery of our Youth Advocacy/Ambassador Programme – the Trust’s youth engagement initiative. The SPDL is responsible for ensuring that through this programme the Trust engages young people across the country, ensuring they understand what the Holocaust was, inspiring them to be part of ensuring this history is remembered, and empowering them to recognise and address antisemitism when they see it today. The SPDL is responsible for driving a youth engagement strategy, which actively scales up the reach of the programme – bringing it to new audiences. They will be responsible for developing high quality, inspiring, engaging and empowering content to young people in England, Scotland and Wales – quality assuring the programme and all associated initiatives. The SPDL will be an advocate, internally and externally, for youth engagement and youth advocacy, ensuring the Trust’s voice and reputation plays a role in leading and shaping the sector and a future where young people play an active role in Holocaust remembrance and tackling antisemitism today.

2. Oversight of the Trust’s Government funded Lessons from Auschwitz Project, ensuring that the programme continues to reach students across the country each year; that it continues to be regarded as a globally recognised site-based learning initiative; that we are delivering in line with all associated KPIs; and importantly that the content continues to educate in-line with objectives, and continues to inspire young people to continue to engage with the Trust’s cause. This role will work closely with the Chief Programmes and Outreach Officer to drive delivery across programmes in line with the Trust’s strategic vision and strategic plans. The SPDL will work closely with the Senior Logistics Manager who will be accountable for schools marketing; engagement with and registration for all Trust programmes; all associated logistics for schools’ programmes; and ticketing and logistical support for the Ambassador Programme.

For information on the key responsibilities of the role and the person specification, please see the full application pack on our website. This also contains information on how to apply. 

Client: Democratic Progress Institute (DPI)

Project Title: Supporting Peace Through Dialogue by Engaging the Leading Actors and Civil Society in Türkiye

Duration: 18 months

Location: Remote in UK (Flexibility to come to London office if required) 

Start Date: ASAP

 

Background

The Democratic Progress Institute (DPI) is an independent non-governmental organisation established in consultation with international experts in conflict resolution and democratic advancement in Türkiye and the region. DPI seeks to promote peace and democracy building through strengthened public dialogue and political engagement.

Through its Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI), the European Union is funding an 18-month programme on supporting inclusive dialogue and peacebuilding in Türkiye.

Purpose & Objectives

DPI is recruiting a Communication Consultant to meet key KPIs for its newly secured EU project.

The Communications Consultant will design, implement, and manage all strategic communications for the project from launch through close-out, ensuring consistent messaging, strong public visibility, and documented impact.

The consultant will:

1. In line with the approved project proposal and logframe, develop and operationalise a comprehensive communications strategy in close collaboration with the Programmes team.
2. Lead external communication throughout project lifecycle.
3. Provide continuous communications support and reporting on communications and donor visibility activities throughout the project implementation.
4. Produce end-of-project visibility and impact documentation.

 

 

Key requirements

- At least 5+ years’ experience in a mid-level communications role for NGOs.

- Additional 2+ years’ experience working as an independent consultant.

- Strong knowledge of the EU communications guidelines and experience working on EU projects.

- Experience working in peace building, conflict resolution etc. desirable.

- Turkish language a plus.

UK-based remote role. Should be flexible to come to London office if required. (TBC with Head of Programmes)

 

Location: Remote working (with some travel across The Girls’ Network regions in England as required)

Reports to: Head of Programmes and Impact

Salary: £37,000 per annum

Contract: Permanent/Full-time, 37.5 hours per week

Direct Reports: Up to 8 Programme Facilitators

Closing Date: Friday 29th January at 9AM

Interviews: 1st stage interview to be held between 4th & 5th Feb, 2nd-stage interview to be held on 13th Feb

About The Girls’ Network:

The Girls' Network is a national charity with a mission to inspire and empower girls from the least advantaged communities by connecting them with a network of professional women role models and volunteer mentors. We believe no girl should have her future limited by her gender, ethnicity, background, or parental income. Our vision is a future where all girls are supported to realise their ambitions, discover their self-worth, and shape their own futures.

We partner with secondary schools and colleges across multiple regions in England, including London, Merseyside, Portsmouth, Southampton, Sussex, Tees Valley, Tyne & Wear and the West Midlands. We match girls aged 14–19 with trained volunteer mentors for one-to-one support. Additionally, we offer group mentoring, workshops, and access to an Ambassador Community that provides continued opportunities for development, career support, and connection.

Role Summary:

The National Programmes Manager is responsible for leading, managing, and developing a team of regionally dispersed Programme Facilitators to ensure consistent, high-quality delivery of The Girls’ Network programmes across all localities. The post-holder drives programme performance and quality through effective people leadership, robust performance management, and the use of SMART objectives to ensure KPIs are met and organisational outcomes are achieved.

A core element of the role involves embedding best practice across all aspects of programme delivery and maintaining a strong, consistent approach to safeguarding  through our work with children and young people. The post-holder is expected to be an experienced, supportive, and proactive leader, confident in managing performance, developing staff, and supporting team wellbeing and professional growth.

For full details of the role’s responsibilities and person specification, please refer to the attached job description, together with a candidate pack designed to support you throughout the recruitment process.

How to apply

Please apply as soon as possible. You will be asked to complete your application by submitting your CV and answering a few application questions.

Appointees are subject to a DBS check. You must have the right to work in the UK to apply.  

Diversity at our core

The Girls' Network is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating discrimination. In line with the Equality Act 2010, if you require any reasonable adjustments to support you with any stage of this recruitment process, please contact the People team. 

Our Benefits

• 27 holiday days per year, plus public holidays (pro-rata for part-time staff)
• Option to purchase up to 5 additional days of annual leave every year
• Gifted birthday leave
• 3 days volunteering leave per year
• Extended and comprehensive sick pay policy
• Enhanced Family Leave pay policy
• Pension scheme
• Annual professional development fund to help you grow
• 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support
• Benefit from flexible, remote working options with a full suite of home office equipment.
• A dedicated Girls’ Network buddy, available beyond the induction period for ongoing support

Location: Home-based with regular travel to the London office
Department: Behaviour Change and Development
Job Type: Full time, 37.5 hours per week
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £48,083 – £53,426
Benefits: 27 days holiday bank holidays (pro rata for part time roles), healthcare cashplan scheme access, life assurance, paid compassionate leave, enhanced sick pay, Cycling UK membership plus many more staff benefits.

There’s never been a better time to join Cycling UK. As we continue to grow our impact and ambition, we are looking for an experienced and driven Head of New Programmes and Business Development to help shape the next phase of our work.

Cycling UK is committed to creating healthier, happier and more sustainable communities through behaviour change. Whether or not you cycle yourself, our work contributes to improved public health, reduced congestion, cleaner air and more inclusive transport systems.

As Head of New Programmes and Business Development, you will lead the development, mobilisation and delivery of new restricted programmes across the Behaviour Change and Development Directorate and, where required, the wider organisation. Working closely with senior leaders and specialist teams, you will design compelling, fundable programme models, write high-quality bids and secure new income from trusts, foundations and statutory funders.

You will be responsible for building and managing strong relationships with prospective and existing funders, while ensuring that newly secured programmes are mobilised and delivered effectively, compliantly and to a consistently high standard.

The role has end-to-end responsibility for programme management across new workstreams, including planning, budgets, reporting, risk and performance. You will ensure that Cycling UK’s behaviour change models and evidence frameworks are applied consistently, and that robust data is captured to demonstrate impact and value, including social, transport and health outcomes.

This is a fast-paced and highly fulfilling role, ideal for someone who thrives on delivery, collaboration and impact. If you are motivated by creating meaningful change through well-designed, evidence-led programmes, we would love to hear from you.

Explore the attached job description for full details on this exciting opportunity. Please complete the application form, clearly setting out why you are the right candidate for this role. Your supporting statement should demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role, directly referencing the person specification. This will help the selection panel assess your suitability against the criteria.

This role is home-based with expected regular travel to London.

Applications close at 9:00am on the closing date shown.

You may also have experience in the following: Programme Development, Business Development, Funding and Partnerships, Bid Writing, Trusts and Foundations, Statutory Funding, Programme Management, Behaviour Change Programmes, Public Health Programmes, Transport and Mobility Programmes, Head of Programmes, Head of Business Development, Funding Manager, Partnerships Manager, Programme Director, Impact and Evaluation Lead.

REF-225 847

About Unfold

Unfold is an established local charity supporting young people and families to reach their potential by identifying and achieving their goals through mentoring. We support families and young people in Westminster and its neighbouring boroughs through mentoring programmes and peer support groups for women with children.

For over 35 years, we have provided support to families and young people at risk of social exclusion. Working with trained and DBS-checked volunteers, we offer mentoring to women and children, building independence and helping people get where they want to be. We’ve also developed specialised programmes for refugees, children excluded from school, those with care experience, and families facing homelessness.

About the Role

We’re looking for a bold, dynamic Programme Manager to lead and grow Unfold’s Broadening Horizons programme, supporting children and young people aged 10–25. This is a pivotal leadership role for someone who enjoys building and supporting teams and creating outstanding youth programmes. 

You’ll oversee the development, management and delivery of our mentoring programmes and peer support groups, ensuring young people receive high-quality support that is meaningful and transformative. 

Leading a team of Programme Coordinators, you’ll bring energy, structure and clarity to delivery, so programmes run smoothly and to a high standard, achieving strong outcomes for young people and partners.

Partnership leadership is central to the role. You’ll build and deepen relationships with local schools, youth services and community organisations, strengthening Unfold’s trusted presence across Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea. 

You’ll spot opportunities, strengthen collaboration, and develop tailored programme offers that meet the needs of the specific groups we work with. 

You’ll also lead Unfold’s Youth Advisory Council, supporting members to build skills and confidence and to shape Unfold’s strategy and direction, ensuring young people’s voices are embedded in everything we do. 

As a key member of the Senior Management Team, you’ll contribute to programme strategy, systems and continuous improvement, helping Unfold deliver consistently excellent services and achieve meaningful, measurable impact for young people. 

The role may include occasional evening and weekend work, for which time off in lieu will be given.

About You

You will bring:

• Experience developing and managing projects involving vulnerable children, young people, and families.

• Proven management experience, including performance managing and motivating a team.

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience administering, monitoring, and evaluating projects effectively.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Experience developing programme strategy and workplans.

• Passion for supporting children and young people to improve outcomes.

• Ability to communicate with people from diverse backgrounds.

• Confident presentation and public speaking skills.

• Commitment to Unfold’s mission, vision, and values.

You’ll be a motivated, hands-on team player, empathetic to the experiences of vulnerable groups, and willing to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Why Join Us?

• Holidays: 25 working days (along with additional Christmas closedown days)
• Pension: We offer a generous pension provision. New staff are automatically enrolled for a pension after three months, and after six months, we will match your contribution up to a maximum of 8%.
• Team working: We are a small but brilliant team: we're supportive, diverse, and we help each other out. There are always opportunities to get involved in different aspects of the organisation, or lead on new initiatives.
• Training opportunities: We want to ensure that our team is continuously learning and building expertise in their field. For this reason, we offer each team member two days per year dedicated to professional development and training opportunities.
• Wellbeing - How we feel matters: Staff have access to a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, and our staff Wellbeing Champions are leading on the design and delivery of our wellbeing strategy, including the review of our quarterly wellbeing survey. Staff have regular supervision sessions to encourage reflection and discussion on our work and wellbeing. Additionally, we’re excited to introduce three days a year dedicated to team-building activities. These days are an opportunity to build skills, foster connections, and recharge as a team!
• Flexible working: We're happy to consider flexible working arrangements in line with the requirements of the role.
• Working Environment: We work in a beautiful, accessible, eco-friendly co-working space with a number of other charities, with plants, a leafy roof terrace and free hot and cold drinks. With comfortable spaces to read quietly or talk in a group, our workspace is somewhere you'll want to be. 

The purpose of this role is to deliver FSSW’s FareChance programme, including employability learning and practical logistics sessions alongside support and collaboration with the Employability Programme Facilitator. The FareChance programme currently works with young people aged between 18 – 25 who experience additional barriers to accessing education, training, or employment. The young people are supported to learn new skills, build confidence, and realise their full potential. 

FareChance provides a unique combination of two parts: the first is working alongside other volunteers and staff learning key warehouse and logistics skills, getting firsthand practical experience; the second is tailored employability sessions in small groups with 1-1 specialist support. 

The Employability Programme Lead will lead on running the employability workshops. This role will provide 1-1 support for young people where required and provide signposting and referrals to other specialist services. The successful candidate will be passionate about supporting people to thrive and be sensitive to the inequality and power imbalance faced by young people today. They will have experience of supporting young people to achieve their goals and can bring these skills to deliver FareChance. This role will coach as well as co-ordinate the programme whilst supporting the growth of an innovative, supportive, and caring employability pathway for people to overcome barriers and move closer to the future they deserve. 

Duties and Responsibilities: 

Programme Delivery 

• Support the Employability Programme Facilitator to deliver practical warehouse activity sessions 

• Working with the Operations team to ensure smooth integration of our participants and the programme into every aspect of the operation. 

• Lead in providing tailored programme coaching/mentoring: 

• Set up and monitor an action plan for each participant with realistic goals to overcome barriers they face. 

• Provide advice and guidance, build confidence and support participants with appropriate resources for their next steps (including CV writing and interview skills)

• Identify project management opportunities and build plans with relevant staff in the wider team. 

• Lead on developing and preparing programme resources. 

• Identify specific needs and risks, liaising with senior colleagues, create and maintain risk assessments with individuals to ensure safety in the workplace.

Programme Development 

• Lead on the recruitment, onboarding and offboarding of participants (currently 18–25-year-olds with possibility of expanding this range) onto the FareChance Programme. 

• Work with the Volunteer Team to ensure smooth transitions to and from FareChance to Volunteering where applicable. 

• Build a Youth Steering/Co-production group to design, deliver and evaluate the programmes. 

• Alongside the Head of Employability and Volunteering, support the development of the strategy for future programmes. 

External partnerships and relationship building 

• Work with the Head of Employability and Volunteering to develop our network of statutory, charity and business partnerships to increase referral pathways into and out of the programme. 

• Support the fundraising team in providing updates for employability funders 

• On occasion, attend events or appointments to support recruitment/represent FSSW 

• Build a network of signposting for participants across the programme including local businesses and apprenticeship opportunities. 

• Work with the Head of Employability and Volunteering to develop partnerships to offer on-course enrichment opportunities, e.g., away days and mentoring. 

Reporting and Administration 

• Maintain quality records of all participant information, including interventions with project participants, ensuring that such data is stored within the requirements of the Data Protection Act and FSSW policies and procedures 

• Work alongside the Head of Employability and Volunteering around any incidents or safeguarding concerns. Signpost to external agencies where appropriate. 

• Work with the fundraising and communications teams on internal and external reporting for FareChance, including gathering quantitative and qualitative data 

• Deliver programme data and, in conjunction with the Head of Employability and Volunteering, analyse and feed into future programmes 

Person Specification 

It is not expected that a successful candidate will necessarily have all the following criteria. FareShare South West is committed to helping individuals develop professionally and personally, and your application is encouraged.

Essential 

• Knowledge and experience of delivering 1:1 and group motivational mentoring/coaching.

• Successful experience of supporting people back into work or training, with a strong commitment to advancing equality and diversity. 

• Ability to work flexibly, respond positively to project changes and meet challenging targets. 

• Excellent interpersonal and listening skills with the ability to influence, motivate and negotiate. 

• Good IT skills 

Desirable 

• Experience of building a programme 

• Experience of responding appropriately to challenging behaviours 

• Project management experience 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills 

• Understanding of safeguarding and GDPR regulations 

• Ability to set up and maintain accurate and timely records for monitoring and evaluating purposes. 

• Strong organisational skills including planning, prioritising, and time management. 

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. As we expand our programmes, we particularly value candidates who bring multicultural perspectives and/or speak additional languages. Skills in languages such as Arabic, Pashto, or Farsi are highly desirable, but not essential. If you share our commitment to inclusion and want to make a positive impact, we’d love to hear from you. 

Additional Information 

• Role may involve some manual handling; training will be provided.

• Enhanced DBS check required. 

• This post is funded by St James’s Place Charitable Foundation

Location: MSSC, National Support Centre, 200B Lambeth Road, London, SE1 7JY (Hybrid)

Contract: Full time, Permanent

Salary: £60,000 - £63,000 gross per annum, depending on experience

Closing Date: Sunday 8 February 2026

Interviews:Tuesday 17 February 2026 (Interviews to be held in London)

Application: CV & Supporting Statement

Are you a Head of Safety, Health & Environment looking for a new opportunity?

The Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC) is the leading maritime charity for youth development and lifelong learning. We are a vibrant and growing charity inspiring young people to achieve their potential through challenge and nautical adventure and also enabling seafarers and maritime professionals to realise their potential through learning and career development. Working with our employees, cadets, and volunteers, we have built a strong vision and five-year Future Ready strategy to meet the growing demand for what we provide, both for young people, seafarers and maritime professionals – and the thousands who aspire to be the sea cadets and marine professionals of the future. It is also about equipping them to achieve their potential and thrive in a rapidly changing world, while growing our charity to benefit even more people – including those from under-represented or marginalised groups.

We are currently looking for a Head of Safety, Health & Environment to join our team.

About the role

If you have significant experience of delivering and guiding health and safety in a large organisation as well as providing advice and guidance on health and safety issues on both a strategic and operational level this could be the role for you. 

You will have first class leadership skills, with the ability to manage a disbursed staff team as well as the excellent interpersonal skills to support and influence colleagues, senior managers, volunteers and others.

The successful candidate will be able to build effective relationships, manage a diverse workload as well as being able to analyse and deal with complex or difficult situations, with skill and discretion.

Responsibilities

• Manage all safety, health and environmental issues within the MSSC, working closely with the Director of Young People, Volunteer & Business Support and other members of the senior management team, the area, offshore, training and other teams as appropriate.
• Manage a disbursed team of Safety Assurance Officers with the support of a Deputy Head of Safety, Health & Environment.
• Monitor changes to legislation and advise CEO and Trustees of their impact on the MSSC and any required actions and/or policy changes.
• Report and analyse safety data and identifying trends or issues.

Requirements

• Hold a formal qualification in Health & Safety (NEBOSH Certificate or higher).
• Up to date knowledge of H&S legislation, developments, practice and management.
•  Experience of risk management and compliance systems.
•  Significant experience of providing advice and guidance on H&S issues at a senior professional level; both operational and strategic.
•  Experience of managing and supporting a staff team.

For further information, please download the Recruitment Pack. If you are interested in this role, please apply now!

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata for part time employees, increasing with length of service
• Hybrid working for many roles
• Volunteering Leave
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Private medical insurance
• Generous pension (employer contribution up to 10%)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Access to the Marine Society Digital Library
• Wellbeing portal and EAP with 121 counselling
• Employee development: We are investing in our employees' development and have an annual calendar of learning and development opportunities, designed to support employees to develop into their roles and stretch them to achieve their full potential. 

Additional Information

MSSC positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates from all backgrounds. Equity, diversity, and inclusion really matters to us, so we can best serve our beneficiaries from every community. We work to ensure a fair and consistent recruitment process and aim to be a charity where diversity of experience, identity and skills are valued and welcomed. MSSC is an equal opportunities employer.

We recognise our responsibilities to safeguard and protect the young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We do all we can to promote their health, safety and wellbeing, and we expect our staff to share this commitment and work in line with safeguarding policy, the MSSC’s values and ethos of inclusivity. We adhere to safer recruitment practices and therefore employment is subject to detailed pre-employment checks for successful candidates, including references and criminal disclosure checks and the completion of a disclosure questionnaire. 

All successful applicants are required to attend safeguarding training and undergo pre-employment checks including a criminal record check.

Our enduring focus is to strengthen the voluntary sector and transform the funding system, so that charities can do their best work.

About IVAR

At IVAR, we’re more than researchers – we’re sense-makers and bridge-builders. We turn real-world challenges in the voluntary sector into clear, practical insights that inspire change and action.

For 25 years, we’ve worked shoulder-to-shoulder with charities, funders and community organisations: listening, learning and tackling tough problems together. Our work is curious, grounded, human and hopeful.

Our 2025–2030 strategy includes a clear commitment to transforming the funding system and the Open and Trusting programme will be the key to achieving that commitment.

Born in 2021, Open and Trusting is directly inspired by what matters most to charities. Today, 170 funders have signed up to the eight commitments – actively working to be clear, flexible, proportionate, and purposeful in their grant-making. We know this makes a huge difference to charities and the communities they support.

About the role and person

Open and Trusting has come a long way, but there’s a lot more it can achieve – which is why we are looking for a dedicated leader for the programme. The success of the role will depend on an understanding and belief in the work of charities and funders, and the power of transforming funding practices. 

As Head of Programme and Engagement, you’ll bring energy, structure and connective thinking to the work. You will strengthen the community, support learning and ensure that the programme runs with momentum and purpose.

This role is collaborative and outward-facing and combines project management, engagement, community-building and fundraising. The person will need first-rate listening, diplomacy, influencing and relationship-building skills and will be a proven manager, with a track record of developing management infrastructures that underpin the success of initiatives involving multiple strands and big ideas.

If you feel you fit the role and are motivated by our work then we’d love to hear from you. Please find out more by looking at the Candidate Information Pack.

Closing date for applications is Friday 23 January; please download the pack before 18 January.

• Salary: London £76,431 gross per annum/Berlin €100.221,12 gross per annum

• Location: Berlin or London

• Contract Type: Indefinite

• Hours: Full Time

• First Interview Dates: Week beginning 16 February 2025

About the role

Are you a senior fundraising professional with international experience? At ClientEarth, we are looking to hire an experienced and strategic Head of Philanthropy to lead the development and delivery of our global philanthropy programme. In this senior leadership role, you will guide a talented, geographically dispersed Philanthropy team, build deep relationships with major donors across Europe, the US and Asia, and drive income growth.

Meet your Manager

In this role, you will be managed by Hannah Braithwaite who is based in London. Hannah is responsible for leading ClientEarth’s fundraising efforts for its growing portfolio of programmes. Hannah has dedicated her career to raising funds and resources for climate and nature causes. With a degree in Zoology from Sheffield University, Hannah combines her scientific background with her passion for the environment to generate impact with knowledge and credibility. Prior to joining ClientEarth Hannah has held a number of leading roles at prominent international environmental organisations, including Head of External Affairs at the UN Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre and Head of Trusts and Foundations at Fauna & Flora.

Main Duties

• Develop and implement the global philanthropy strategy as part of the overall fundraising strategy, liaising with senior leadership, programme leads, communications and finance to ensure ClientEarth can maximise the potential income from major donors.
• Develop, implement and achieve relevant KPIs and financial targets for the philanthropy team and lead on the production of appropriate reports for senior management and the board of trustees.
• Using the strategy (organisational and fundraising) the Head of Philanthropy will personally manage and support senior staff on holding income-yielding high-level relationships.
• Manage relationships and drive strategy relating to our senior stakeholders such as the Development Board, Chair of the Board and act as a key facilitator and steward of relationships between foundation staff and key programme contacts.
• Set up and implement systems to review performance against set targets and objectives and monitor funder data and oversee the effective management of our database; 

See the job description (below) for a full list of duties for this role.

Role requirements

• Significant philanthropy management experience with complex funders
• Demonstrable experience of securing five and six figure, and multi-year gifts
• Good knowledge of donor and pipeline management and financial processes
• Experience of working with the most senior representatives of an organisation, including at CEO and Board level
• An interest in environmental issues such as climate change, conservation and air pollution

See the job description (below) for a full list of requirements for this role.

Note to candidates: We know that long lists of criteria can be daunting and that some candidates will not apply for a role unless they feel they are 100% qualified. If you feel you meet at least some of the essential criteria, we still encourage you to apply.

Further Information

Have a question about this job? Please visit our Careers site for advice on applying, FAQs, and more.

Flexible working:  We are proud to be a Flexa accredited Employer. Visit our Flexa Employer page for more information on our approach to flexible working. Our flexible working policy allows our people the choice to decide to work from home/another location in the country where their contract of employment is issued for 80% of their month, with the other 20% of their month being office-based  See our Benefits page for more as well as our flexible working FAQ.

ClientEarth values diversity and inclusion and the benefits this brings. We aim to appoint the most suitable candidate at all times and welcome applications from people from all different backgrounds. See our equity, diversity and inclusion journey page for more.

Please note that ClientEarth is only able to employ those who have the pre-existing legal right to work in either the UK or Germany.

ClientEarth is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal services to third parties

We are incredibly excited to share a brand new role at Head In The Game as we enter a major period of growth.

We are recruiting an Area Operations Manager to lead and shape the delivery of our work across West Kent and South London. This is a senior, hands on role and a huge step forward in the expansion of our charity. 

While the role is primarily home based, the successful applicant will need to regularly travel to West Kent and South London to support the delivery of the programme.

This position sits at the heart of our organisation. You will be responsible for the quality, safety and consistency of our programmes, while supporting and leading the brilliant staff and volunteers who make our work possible. The impact of this role is real and direct, helping us reach more people, in more communities, through sport and physical activity that supports mental health and helps prevent suicide.

We are looking for someone with strong experience in the charity or community sector, who understands high quality delivery, safeguarding and partnership working. Just as important is a genuine passion for mental health and the power of sport to change lives. This role is ideal for someone who is people focused, values led and excited by responsibility and growth.

This is a 1 year rolling contract, salary £28,000 per year plus travel expenses and pension, with flexible working and regular travel to programme venues.

If you are looking for a role where your experience really matters, where you can lead from the front and be part of something that is growing fast and making a difference every day, this could be for you.