Head of public policy and programme director jobs

Main Role & Responsibilities

The post holder is required to provide strategic leadership and oversight of all programme activity, ensuring all activity is delivered and evaluated effectively and in alignment with organisational goals.  

The successful candidate will lead and develop programme teams and oversee engagement, planning and delivery, and monitor risk and opportunities. They will develop strong relationships representing the organisation externally, and ensure programmes demonstrate clear impact and meet quality standards.

 

Role Requirements

Duties will include but not be limited to:

Strategic Leadership & Direction

• Lead all programme activity and ensure alignment with organisational goals
• Translate vision and strategic goals into actionable programme, content and priorities
• Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact
• Contribute to wider organisational strategy and oversee the operationalisation of strategic goals
• Work closely with other heads of services to support strategic development

 

 

 

Programme Development & Design

• Oversee the development and evolution of programmes, content, and resources
• Ensure programmes are evidence-based, relevant, and high quality, aligning with quality standards, working closely with the insights team
• Lead needs assessments and stakeholder consultations to understand programme needs
• Embed inclusivity, accessibility, and best practice in all programme design

Programme Delivery & Operations

• Oversee the planning, implementation and delivery of all programmes
• Develop systems, processes, and timelines for consistent execution
• Manage programme budgets and resource allocation
• Identify and mitigate risks to delivery
• Identify opportunities for commercialisation of products and services

Performance, Monitoring & Impact Measurement

• Define KPIs and success metrics aligned to organisational outcomes
• Analyse data to assess programme effectiveness and impact
• Use insights to drive continuous improvement and strategic decisions
• Report on performance to senior leadership, funders, and stakeholders

Stakeholder & Partnership Management

· Build and maintain strong relationships with:

• • Partners and collaborators
  • Funders and commissioners
  • Community or beneficiary groups
• Represent the organisation externally at meetings, events, and networks
• Identify and develop strategic partnerships to enhance programme reach

 

 

 

Team Leadership & Management

• Lead, manage, and develop the delivery leadership team
• Participate in strategic development and oversee work within delivery and impact portfolio
• Work closely with other heads of services to provide support to the SLT
• Set clear objectives, expectations, and performance standards
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and professional development opportunities
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture

Quality Assurance & Governance

• Ensure programmes meet quality standards and organisational policies
• Maintain compliance with relevant regulations and safeguarding requirements
• Oversee documentation, reporting, and accountability processes

Resource & Content Oversight

• Ensure the development of high-quality programme materials and resources
• Oversee content consistency, branding, and alignment with organisational values
• Ensure resources are accessible and effectively utilised

Financial Oversight

• Manage programme budgets and ensure cost-effective delivery
• Monitor expenditure and ensure alignment with funding requirements
• Support fundraising and contribute to funding proposals as required

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Work with Insight and Innovation team to stay informed of sector trends and best practices
• Encourage innovation in programme design and delivery
• Pilot and scale new approaches based on evidence and feedback

· Oversee development of all programmes and associated content and resources

Person Specification 

Essential

· Educated to degree level or have the equivalent experience

· A detailed understanding of education, Health and Social Care and family services and how to engage these sectors

· Confident leader with previous demonstrable experience in overseeing multiple programmes or portfolios with matrix management experience

· Proven track record of developing, delivering, and scaling programmes with measurable impact

· Experience working with a range of stakeholders, including partners, funders, and communities

· Experience managing budgets and resources effectively

· Experience of delivering regional and national programmes

· Strong understanding of programme design, delivery, and lifecycle management

· Understanding of partnership working and stakeholder engagement approaches

· Awareness of relevant policy, regulatory, and safeguarding requirements

· Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans

· Excellent planning, organisational, and project management skills

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex programmes simultaneously

· Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and drive continuous improvement

· Ability to define KPIs and measure programme success effectively

· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships

· Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop teams through coaching and performance management

· Strong commitment to quality, impact, and continuous improvement

· Collaborative and inclusive leadership style

· High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism

· Adaptable and resilient in a dynamic and changing environment

· Passionate about the organisation’s mission and values

Desirable

· Experience of working in gambling harms prevention sector or another similar or related field

· Experience of operationalising strategic plans

· Experience in developing harm prevention programmes and or interventions

· Knowledge of sector trends, innovation, and best practice

· Leadership qualification

· An understanding of public health frameworks and approach to harm prevention

· An understanding of PSHE, PSE, Learning for Life and Work

About The Clink Charity

The Clink Charity, founded in 2009, aims to prevent and reduce reoffending through training, reintegration, and support. We deliver hospitality and horticulture training behind the prison walls and in the community by creating an environment where our students are supported to gain the skills, confidence and qualifications they need to rebuild their lives.

Since that time, we have trained approximately 5,000 people in prison and delivered 2,600 City & Guilds qualifications in a variety of hospitality and food courses.

What makes The Clink so unique is our post-release support and mentoring programme that reintegrates an offender back into society through assistance with health and mental health issues, housing, employment, family connections and friendships.

The charity operates an award-winning fine-dining restaurant open to the public inside HMP Brixton, training kitchens in the prison estate, horticulture projects at HMP Send and HMP Erlestoke, a commercial bakery in Brixton, and a bespoke delivery service, Catered by Clink.

Additionally, Clink Events is our social enterprise catering business with food produced by the women in HMP Downview and also in an additional kitchen at Herne Hill and then served by alumni on front of house at some of the best venues in London including: the Guildhall, the Science Museum, Cutty Sark, Kew Gardens and the Camden Roundhouse. In 2025, across 239 events, The Clink fed 43,000 people.

More information can be found on our website and social media channels.

About The Role

Working pattern: Full time, 9am-5pm Monday-Friday, 3-4 days in the office, or on site at projects in prison or in the community.

Location: Our Head Office is in Herne Hill, SE24 London (7 min walk from Herne Hill station)

Our Head of Fundraising & Brand is a vital leadership role within The Clink Charity, responsible for securing the income, profile and partnerships needed to sustain and grow our life-changing work.

This is a broad and influential role, providing strategic leadership across fundraising, communications, marketing and brand. Working within our portfolio of prison and community-based projects, the postholder will help ensure that The Clink's impact is communicated in a compelling and consistent way to funders, supporters, partners and the wider public, while developing sustainable income streams to support our long-term ambitions.

Building on The Clink's strong reputation and proven impact, the Head of Fundraising & Brand will lead the development and delivery of a fundraising and communications strategy that extends beyond grants to encompass major donors, corporate partnerships, individual giving, events and other income opportunities. Through powerful storytelling, audience growth and brand development, they will increase awareness of our work, strengthen engagement with key stakeholders and create new opportunities for fundraising, partnerships and commercial income generation.

Working closely with the Chief Executive, Director of Finance & Resources and senior leadership team, the postholder will lead and develop a talented fundraising and marketing team, cultivate strategic relationships and identify new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

As The Clink continues to expand its reintegration, training and employment programmes, this role will play a central part in securing the resources needed to support that growth, strengthen our brand and increase engagement with our mission to reduce reoffending.

If you are a strategic and ambitious fundraising leader with a track record of generating income, building partnerships and inspiring teams, and are passionate about creating meaningful social change, we would love to hear from you.

A Little About You

You could be a great fit for our Head of Fundraising & Brand role if you are an ambitious and strategic leader with experience of developing fundraising strategies, growing income and building organisational profile. Perhaps you've led fundraising within a charity, developed successful partnerships, secured major grants, or overseen marketing and communications activity that has strengthened a brand, increased audience engagement and generated growth in income through fundraising, commercial activity or the sale of products and services.

You may have built your career in fundraising, communications, marketing or business development, but you'll have a strong understanding of how these disciplines work together to generate support, attract funding, grow audiences and drive sustainable income. You'll be comfortable developing strategy, building relationships and translating organisational impact into compelling stories that inspire funders, partners, customers and supporters.

We welcome applications from experienced professionals who are ready to lead a talented team, shape the future direction of fundraising and brand development at The Clink Charity, and play a key role in our continued growth. Most importantly, you'll be passionate about our mission and motivated by the opportunity to transform lives, reduce reoffending and create second chances

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising and Income Generation

· Develop and deliver a multi-stream fundraising strategy that supports The Clink Charity's growth and long-term sustainability.

· Use brand identity to drive sales.

· Lead income generation activity across trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, individual giving, events and other fundraising streams.

· Use communications to create income from marketing of our commercial products and services e.g. bakery, restaurant, café, events.

· Build and manage a strong fundraising pipeline, identifying and securing new funding opportunities and strategic partnerships

· Monitor fundraising performance, ensuring targets are achieved and opportunities and risks are proactively managed.

Brand, Marketing and Communications

· Lead the development and delivery of a compelling brand and communications strategy.

· Ensure The Clink's impact, mission and outcomes are communicated effectively to supporters, funders, partners and the wider public.

· Oversee marketing campaigns, digital engagement and communications activity that strengthen the charity's profile and support income generation.

· Champion a consistent and impactful organisational brand across all channels.

Leadership and Team Development

· Lead, motivate and develop a high-performing fundraising, marketing and communications team.

· Create a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.

· Support the development of fundraising and marketing capability across the wider organisation.

Strategic Leadership

· Contribute to the strategic direction and future development of The Clink Charity.

· Work closely with colleagues across operational and support functions to align fundraising and brand activity with organisational priorities.

· Represent the charity externally with funders, partners, supporters and other key stakeholders.

· Ensure compliance with fundraising regulations, best practice and organisational policies.

 Person Specification

Essential

· Significant experience in fundraising, income generation and fundraising strategy development.

· A proven track record of delivering sustainable income growth across multiple fundraising streams.

· Experience of developing and implementing successful fundraising plans, campaigns and income-generation initiatives.

· Experience of leading or overseeing brand, marketing and communications activity, including the development of organisational messaging and audience engagement strategies

· Strong understanding of how fundraising, brand, marketing and communications can work together to increase income, profile and supporter engagement.

· Experience of leading, motivating and developing high-performing teams.

· Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence and inspire a wide range of audiences.

· Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to develop compelling cases for support and communicate organisational impact effectively.

· Strong planning, organisational and project management skills.

· Experience of using data, insight and performance metrics to inform decision-making and drive improvement.

· A commitment to the mission, values and objectives of The Clink Charity.

Desirable

· Experience within the charity, social enterprise or not-for-profit sector

· Experience of working with senior leadership teams, trustees or boards.

· Experience of corporate partnership development, major donor fundraising or philanthropy.

· Experience of managing digital marketing, audience development or supporter engagement activity.

· Understanding of rehabilitation, employability, education or the criminal justice sector.

· Membership of a relevant professional body such as the Chartered Institute of Fundraising or the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

Personal Attributes

· Demonstrable belief in The Clink’s mission and passion for our work.

· High levels of self-awareness, humility and flexibility, as well as an open and collaborative leadership style.

· Personal integrity, kindness, warmth and sound judgement.

· Good communicator: orally and in writing.

· Proactive, adaptable and can use initiative and find solutions to problems.

· Positive, entrepreneurial, energising and adopts a “can do” mentality.

· Values driven and promotes inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility (IDEA).

Reporting Lines & Management Expectations

You will report to our Director of Finance and Resources and will initially have two team members reporting to you.

General clink charity information

All staff are expected to:

· Comply with all current legislation

· Comply with all prison operational policies

· Comply with The Clink Staff Handbook

· Undertake such other duties within the scope of the post as may be requested by your Manager

Benefits:

28 days holiday plus bank holiday

Company pension scheme

Free meal on duty at Head Office or in the Restaurant

HOW TO APPLY

If you would like to apply for this post, please send your CV and a supporting statement (maximum 2 sides of A4) to Lizann Barnwell (HR Consultant) via this job site.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged. The closing date is Monday 22nd June, 9am.

In your supporting statement you should ensure that you try to address the desirable criteria set out in the person specification for the role. Make sure you give evidence which shows how you meet the criteria, not just telling us that you did it.

Interviews will be arranged on a rolling basis for this role, so early applications are encouraged. The deadline for applications is Monday 22nd June 2026, 9am.

We do not send individual acknowledgment of applications due to the high volume we receive, and we will only contact candidates who are shortlisted for an interview. If you do not hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, your application has not been successful on this occasion.

If you would like an informal chat about this role, we can offer a call with a member of The Clink Team. Even if you feel you do not meet some of the criteria listed above, we would still welcome applications from passionate candidates who are keen to make a difference.

Appointment Process

Applicants who have demonstrated that they meet the desirable criteria set out in the person specification will be contacted and interviews arranged on a rolling basis.

Interview

If you are shortlisted for interview, you will be invited to a selection process. A panel of two or more, including the recruiting manager conducts all interviews. If there are any special arrangements associated with the selection process e.g. tests or presentations, you will be informed accordingly.

Interview Outcome

If you are invited to attend an interview, you will be informed either verbally or in writing of the outcome. The successful candidate will have the decision confirmed in writing as an offer of employment. Unsuccessful candidates will be offered the opportunity for feedback.

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.

About us

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We know that homelessness is not inevitable. We know that together we can end it.

This is an extremely exciting time to join the team, as we anticipate the implementation of new homelessness legislation that holds the potential to be world leading and seek to develop relationships with the newly elected Senedd and Welsh Government.

You will lead our agenda in Wales to achieve positive and lasting change to end homelessness. This is an extremely exciting time to join the team, as the Wales Government introduces homelessness prevention legislation that will be world leading.

Location: Crisis Skylight South Wales, 163 St Helens Road, Swansea, SA14DQ. Option of hybrid working from home (minimum 1 day a week in the Skylight) with the ability to travel across Wales and within the UK for training and meetings.

Contract: Fixed term up to 11 months (available as a secondment)

Salary: £57,452 per annum

About the role

As Head of Policy and Communications in Wales you will lead a team working across policy, public affairs and communications to deliver the changes needed to address homelessness in Wales. After the formation of a new government in Wales, this role will be working closely with politicians, government officials, sector leads, and people with lived experience of homelessness to ensure Crisis’ goal of ending all forms of homelessness in Wales is a priority and bring about the changes needed to meet this goal.

About you

To be successful in this role you will have excellent knowledge and experience of developing and securing policy change at a national government level and raising the profile of an organisation through advocacy and strategic communications.

Ideally you will have experience across policy, public affairs and media work, and excel at building stakeholder relations. You will be an experienced spokesperson and understand how to communicate policy matters in a simple and concise way. You will have understanding and knowledge of developing policy and influencing objectives informed by frontline staff and working with people with lived experience of an issue and staff.

Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions, we encourage you to apply.

We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities and backgrounds.

Working at Crisis

Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.

Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.

As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:

• A competitive salary. Please note our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage
• Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy
• Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5%
• 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave
• Flexible working around the core hours 10am-4pm
• And more! (Full list of benefits available on website)

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience and career.

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

How do I apply?

Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.

Closing date: Sunday 14th June at 23:59

Interview date and location: Friday 26th June, in-person at Crisis Skylight South Wales, 163 St Helens Road, Swansea, SA1 4DQ

AI in Job Applications

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences.

Accessibility

We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please contact our Talent Acquisition team to discuss how we can help.

For more information about our work please visit

@Crisis_Cymru on Instagram

@CrisisWales on X

Crisis Skylight South Wales on Facebook

Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094

About Us

The Early Education and Childcare Coalition unites the voices of parents, children, providers, early years professionals and the wider business community, working together for investment and reform of early education and childcare in England.

We believe that we all benefit from a well-functioning early education system and we all have a role to play in ensuring it works for children, parents and the economy.

We are backed by some of the most high-profile campaign and research organisations in the UK. Our members span providers, parent groups, trade unions, the business community and NGOs. Together, we use our collective voice and research to build public and political support for change.

This is an exciting time to join the Coalition. We have experienced significant growth in recent years and, with early years firmly on the political agenda, we expect this to continue.

About the role

• Hours: 30 hours per week (this can be worked over 4 or 5 days). We will consider other working patterns with a minimum of 3.5 days per week worked over 4.
• Duration: Two-year contract, renewed subject to funding
• Location: Home-working, can be based anywhere in the country
• Salary: c. £53,820 per annum FTE (£43,056 pro-rata for 4 days)

We are a remote team, with most colleagues based outside London. This role will support the whole organisation and requires occasional in-person meetings such as in-person team planning days which you will be expected to travel to.

We work flexibly and understand the realities of balancing work with caring commitments. We trust you to manage your time, but expect most hours to be worked within core office hours. To support effective remote working, all staff work on Thursdays.

This is a senior, cross-cutting leadership role sitting at the heart of the organisation. You will lead on operations, finance, HR and organisational systems, while working closely with the Executive Director and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and the Board to ensure the Coalition is sustainable, well-run, and set up for growth and impact.

About You

You are an experienced operations leader with a strong track record of building and running effective organisational systems, ideally within a charity, social impact or policy environment.

You are equally comfortable developing strategy and rolling up your sleeves to deliver. You bring strong financial and organisational management skills, and are motivated by enabling high-impact teams to thrive.

You have experience working at senior leadership level and are confident operating across a small, fast-paced organisation where priorities can shift quickly. You are a systems thinker who can spot gaps, create structure, and improve how things work.

What You Can Expect to Be Doing

Function leadership

• Work as part of the Senior Leadership Team
• Contribute to organisational strategy, planning and growth
• Support organisational decision-making, balancing operational, financial and strategic priorities

Develop operations and organisational systems

• Oversee the day-to-day running of the organisation, ensuring efficient and effective operations
• Develop and implement systems, processes and policies to support a scaling organisation
• Take ownership of organisational infrastructure (e.g. CRM, internal systems, workflows)
• Improve internal coordination, planning and ways of working across functions

Financial management and sustainability

• Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including reporting, invoicing and payments
• Support organisational financial planning, forecasting and scenario modelling
• Work with external accountants/bookkeepers and ensure strong financial controls
• Support the Executive Director and Board on financial governance and decision-making

People management

• Ensure the organisation has robust HR systems in place, ensuring they reflect changes in legislation, support staff wellbeing and development and foster an inclusive and positive culture
• Lead recruitment, onboarding and staff contracts
• Support performance management, team development and organisational culture

Programme and contract management

• Oversee operational delivery of programmes and projects
• Manage funder agreements and contracts, ensuring compliance and reporting
• Support programme leads with planning, delivery tracking and coordination
• Strengthen systems for delivery and accountability

Governance and organisational support

• Support effective governance, including Board coordination and reporting
• Ensure strong administration of meetings, papers and decision-making processes
• Strengthen alignment between governance, strategy and operations

Cross-organisational leadership

• Act as a central coordination point across policy, campaigns, research and communications
• Support other heads of function to deliver effectively through strong operational systems
• Identify and address organisational capacity gaps, particularly in admin, finance and infrastructure

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience of working at senior leadership level
• Strong experience in operations and financial management
• Experience establishing or improving systems and organisational infrastructure
• Experience of HR processes and people management
• Experience supporting governance and working with senior stakeholders
• Ability to operate effectively in a small, fast-paced and growing organisation
• Strong organisational, problem-solving and communication skills

Desirable

• Experience in a charity, coalition, membership or policy organisation
• Experience supporting organisational growth or scaling
• Experience managing CRMs or digital systems
• While not essential, we would welcome applications from candidate who have either a HR or a financial qualification i.e. CIPD qualified or AAT qualification or similar level of experience and knowledg

The application process

Please apply with a CV and cover letter (no more than two pages) by the listed closing date. No agencies please. We recognise that the use of AI technologies can be useful in reducing the work that goes into job-hunting, however, we kindly request that you use your cover letter to evidence that you have understood the requirements of the role and provide examples of how you can meet the criteria.

The EECC is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We use anonymous recruiting during the application process and we use positive action under section 159 of the Equality Act in relation to disability or race. This means that if we have two candidates of equal merit in our process, we will seek to take forward the disabled or Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic candidate in order to diversify our staff team.

We regret that our small team does not have capacity to respond to unsuccessful applicants individually.

Timeline

• Closing date: 23:30, Thursday 11th June
• Notified for interview by: Tuesday 16th June
• Interviews: We expect this to be a two-stage interview process with first interviews held on either 24th or 25th June and second stage interviews arranged an agreed time.

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

About NEON  

NEON is a not-for-profit organisation that exists to help social justice movements win. We build capacity and infrastructure to accelerate the transition to a new economy. We work across a wide range of progressive issues including climate, housing, healthcare and migration. Across our three hubs (movement building, communications and operations) we support a network of over 1000 movement organisations working towards political and social justice in the UK. 

This role is anchored within NEON’s Comms Hub. Established 10 years ago, the Comms Hub is a powerful, effective, pillar of the UK’s progressive communications infrastructure. The Hub convenes, networks, and books progressive spokespeople into the media at scale (averaging 1,500-2,000 media bookings a year), produces clear, usable tested messaging guidance that cuts through, and trains comms professionals (around 500 people annually). Our team serves as a go-to resource for strategic comms advice and planning, and crisis-comms support for groups across the progressive movement. NEON’s Comms Hub is relied on by a wide-range of organisations: from grassroots campaigners to expert insiders.  The Comms Hub has five programmes, and Digital will be the sixth programme.

Read more about the structure of the Comms Hub here, before applying. 

Purpose of this role

The Head of Digital is an exciting new role at NEON. This role will be responsible for designing and running a flagship new digital programme, that will sit at the heart of NEON’s Communications Hub. The aim of the digital programme will be to help connect, strengthen and scale the UK’s progressive digital comms infrastructure. 

Right now, progressive movements are losing the "air game" to far-right voices who are effectively using podcasts, social media, new media platforms and smart, aggressive, experimental digital strategies to dominate and shape national debates. 

Working closely with our experienced Comms Hub team, and our trusted networks, this role is a unique opportunity to be part of building the digital comms networks, skills and strategies progressive movements need to take on the rising far right – and win. 

At NEON, that would mean: convening and co-ordinating communities of digital comms experts, creators, editors and strategists; designing and delivering effective targeted digital skills training that will build capacity and confidence; supporting our 24/7 spokesperson and media booking team by setting up effective clipping and distribution programmes; and identifying opportunities to collaborate with our partners to run high-impact reactive digital strategies that shift the conversation. 

What you’ll be doing: 

The successful candidate will play an active role in shaping the strategy and focus of this programme, as well as the sequencing of the roll out of key workstreams. However, this role is likely to be anchored around the following key responsibilities. In this role, you will: 

1. Lead the strategy development and delivery of the new digital comms programme, alongside the Co-Directors of the Comms Hub.

2. Set up and manage a supportive, reactive social media unit within our existing Spokesperson Network, with the support of our Media and Messaging teams. This unit will clip interviews and create original content for our established network of spokespeople, and help to secure bookings in new digital-first media outlets. 

3. Work closely with the whole Comms Hub team, to design and convene a powerful co-ordinated network of progressive creators and influencers. Built from our existing spokesperson pool, as well as new networks, members of this digital creator network will be individuals with the backing of social movements and the reach, potential and positioning to shape the national debate. Together with the Heads of Messaging, Training and Media, you will help to provide this network with hands-on training and strategy support, evidence-based messaging, and traditional and new media booking opportunities. 

4. Design and oversee a strategic, effective suite of digital training offers, designed to upskill influential progressive spokespeople, movements and groups, at scale. This will include shaping our existing training programmes, as well as designing and developing new offers. This could include: a half-day follow-up to our flagship 3-day spokesperson training, a one-day digital strategy training for comms teams within our networks, and shaping our bespoke, issue-specific and crisis-focused trainings to support groups dealing with online-hate or abuse. This workstream will be supported by our Head of Training, relevant Comms Hub team members and delivered with the support of external consultant trainers. 

5. Identify opportunities to trial and run effective digital ‘experiments’ with partners and movement groups within the Comms Hub. For example, this could look like collaborating with a network of migrants-rights groups to create co-ordinated digital content to push-back against a far-right attack at a moment of ‘whirlwind’. Or spotting an opportunity to work with the Head of Messaging to trial a new AI-driven platform to A/B test messaging in targeted ads during a movement campaign on wealth taxes. 

6. Set up a network of consultants to support and deliver the core programme workstreams including: freelance videographers, editors, digital strategists and trainers. 

7. Provide on-going 1:1 support to our spokespeople and allied organisations, particularly during moments of crisis and ‘whirl-wind’.

8. Provide regular insights to our partners on the digital trends shaping public opinion and national discourse. 

9. Play an active role in the wider Comms Hub strategy and day-to-day operations, including attending our weekly strategy meetings,  feeding into key messaging and narrative development projects, and supporting delivery across the hub. 

10. Oversee and the digital programme’s finances and budget on a month-to-month basis, and the programmes’ Fundraising Strategy, with the support of the Co-Directors of Comms and the Head of Fundraising. 

11. Play an active part in the wider NEON team, contributing to organisation-wide plans. 

Who you are: 

You will be someone with:

• 5–10 years’ experience in digital comms, including developing and deploying a strategy for multi-year multi-project programmes of work

• A track record of creating innovative, high-impact digital campaigns and content that push forward a progressive agenda

• Hands-on experience of creating shareable and persuasive video and digital content, campaigns and strategies that cut through, reache new audiences at scale, mobilise movements and persuade new audiences of progressive ideas

• A strong understanding of digital media, and a natural enthusiasm for tracking and responding to new trends in a fast-changing digital media landscape 

• Someone who enjoys piloting new approaches, experimenting with new techniques and quickly jumping on opportunities to tell compelling progressive stories online.

• Experience developing the tone, positioning and personal brand of an organisation, spokesperson or individual online.

• A strong understanding of the news agenda – you’ll enjoy being plugged in to how online conversations are changing, and be able to quickly jump on opportunities to tell a compelling alternative progressive story. 

• Experience collaborating with creators, influencers, and a range of partners to deliver creative, hard-hitting campaigns, grow reach, drive action and really change minds

• A strong understanding of different audience types, and experience adapting messaging and using digital testing methods to assess impact and improve performance.

• Experience designing and running effective, inclusive training for diverse groups of people, with the ability to help others land powerful, shareable content too.

• Politically aware and motivated by progressive causes, with a commitment to centring anti-oppression in your work and helping ensure people — especially those from marginalised backgrounds — stay safe online and get their voices heard.

• Excellent team-working and relationship-building skills, with experience building networks, making connections and working across differences.

• Experience of fundraising, including building and maintaining funder relationships and making a compelling case for projects to a range of stakeholders.

We know that people from certain backgrounds and identities are often excluded in progressive movements and we’re committed to doing what we can to correct this. 

So:

1. We particularly welcome applications from marginalised groups, especially people of colour and other ethnic minorities, people who identify as LGBTQIA, Disabled people and those who identify as working class or have done so in the past.

2. We know the work goes way beyond "diversity", it's about making the space inclusive too. So we are continuously working on that at NEON. So far this includes tangible things like a flexible work policy so people have genuine flexibility around where and when they work and a 28 hour week as standard; a gender-neutral parenting/leave policy, an anti-oppression strategy which is held at senior level given how important it is to the organisation. It also includes the day-to-day work of creating psychological safety for everyone at NEON and celebrating the wisdom of black, indigenous, queer, Disabled and other cultures in the way we work and behave

There are no formal education requirements for this role. As long as you can show us you have the skills we don’t mind where you got them from! Also important to us is your potential to learn and grow in the role so even if you don’t have 100% of the skills listed we want to hear from you.

Dates: 

Application deadline: 28th June  2026, 11.59pm

Interview dates: First round of interviews: 8th & 9th July 2026, second round of interviews: 14th July 2026

Please visit our website for more details and to apply.

Head of Finance | DFN Project SEARCH

Remote, with travel to London on average once a month plus occasional site visits | £51,500 – £61,500 | 9-day fortnight (after probation), flexible working welcome

DFN Project SEARCH is a national charity supporting young adults with a learning disability, autism, or both, into real, paid, lasting work. Last year alone, 431 young people started jobs through our programme. We work with around 200 employers, colleges and local authorities across the UK, and we've supported over 2,900 people since we started. We're good at what we do, and we want to do a lot more of it. Our aim is to support 10,000 interns by 2030.

We've grown rapidly, which is exciting, and this role has been newly created to make sure all the finance processes are set up so that we can continue to grow and scale properly. So, this isn't a steady-state job where you inherit clean processes and just keep them ticking. You'll be helping to build the structure as the charity grows around it.

That means we need someone who can lead and do. You'll own the finance function end to end: month-end, management accounts, statutory reporting, cash flow, controls. You'll also shape how all of it should work as we continue to grow. One day you're posting journals and reconciling the balance sheet; the next you're helping a budget holder who's never read a P&L understand their numbers, or modelling what reaching 10,000 interns actually means financially. You'll report to the Finance Director and line manage our Finance Administrator.

What your time will look like:

- Running the finance function day to day and ensuring everything is accurate, compliant and efficient, which means journals, reconciliations, month-end close, the monthly rhythm

- Producing management accounts and board-level reporting that people can act on, with clear commentary

- Working with the Finance Director on budgeting, statutory accounts, audit and VAT

- Strengthening cash flow forecasting, treasury, reserves and credit control

- Owning the controls framework, financial policies and procedures, and getting more out of Xero so we have real-time insight, not using out-of-date assumptions to make business critical decisions

- Managing restricted, designated and unrestricted funds, and reporting to funders properly and on time

- Supporting fundraising and bid colleagues with budgets for grant applications and tenders

- Overseeing payroll and pensions with our provider

- Helping non-finance colleagues across the charity get more confident in their own financial understanding

What we need from you:

- A qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent)

- Solid charity finance experience. You'll know Charity SORP, restricted funds and grant reporting, and you're across the changes coming to SORP

- Someone happy with their hands on the controls: month-end, reconciliations, statutory accounts and board reporting

- Strong on Xero (or quick to get there) and advanced Excel

- The ability to explain numbers clearly to people who don't think in numbers

- Experience setting up or developing financial instructions, controls and processes in a charity

You don't need to tick every single box. If you've been part of a finance team that's been through this kind of change and you're ready to step up and lead it yourself, we'd still really like to hear from you.

But honestly, the most important element is you, and how you bring people along with you through a period of change. You'll be comfortable bringing structure and calm to an organisation that's still growing into its processes. We need someone who can be calm and measured when the numbers feel busy, who can be a steady anchor point for the team when a lot is changing, and who knows when to help and when to teach someone how to help themselves. You'll be relentless about making things better, but able to bring people with you rather than drag them. If you want to lead a change rather than just be part of one, this is for you!

The practical stuff: This is a remote and flexible role, and we mean it, but it isn't a "never-leave-the-house" role. The leadership team comes together regularly, on average once a month, plus occasional travel to sites and the odd away day. Travel is always planned in advance and we cover the costs. If you can reach London comfortably and you value time with the people you work with, you'll get the best of both.

- 25 days' annual leave, plus your birthday off and bank holidays on top, with the option to buy back additional leave

- 9-day fortnight after successful completion of probation: 37.5 hours worked across nine days, with the tenth day off

- Flexible working genuinely considered: job share, part-time (minimum 4 days), compressed hours

- Pension: 6% employer contribution

- Employee Assistance Programme and NHS top-up wellbeing support

Please note we are unable to offer visa sponsorship, so you'll need the existing right to work in the UK.

It won't be a surprise that we're a Disability Confident employer. We share interview questions in advance, and if you need any adjustments to the process, or a different format for any stage, please just tell us.

If you're a charity finance person who wants their work to really mean something, and who fancies building something rather than just maintaining it, we'd love to hear from you.

Dates to note:

- Closing date: 16th June

- First interviews (remote): 24th–25th June

- Final interviews (London): 30th June

Reports to: Chief Operating Officer

Location: Flexible/Remote, with monthly co-working days in London

Salary: £47,000 - £50,000 

Hours: Full time; 37.5 hours a week, We are happy to consider requests for flexible or part time working 

Contract: Permanent 

ABOUT THE ROLE 

Role overview 

Now Teach is looking for our first Head of Impact as we embark on an exciting new organisational strategy to understand, articulate and maximise our impact. In this pivotal role, you will lead the ongoing development of Now Teach’s monitoring, evaluation and learning, ensuring we are able to clearly evidence our impact, evaluate and strengthen our approaches, drive continuous improvement and strengthen the case for career changers in teaching. 

We have identified four key areas of impact delivered by our network of Now Teachers and are now in the process of defining overarching organisational impact metrics and building our measurement systems. You will take on this role at a key point in our impact journey, embedding our strategic impact framework and strengthening our internal impact capabilities.  

You will refine and evolve our impact approach to drive continuous improvement across the charity and inform future programme design. Working closely with teams across the organisation, you will help embed a strong culture of learning, reflection and evidence‑led decision‑making. 

This role is a key member of the Now Teach leadership team and plays an integral part in evaluating progress against our strategy, sharing insight and learning with trustees, funders and other stakeholders. 

This is a strategic, hands‑on role, working in partnership with Recruitment, Network, Communications, Philanthropy and wider teams. You will also work closely with the Data Manager to ensure the collection, management and use of high‑quality data that underpins credible and compelling impact evidence. 

In this role you will……  

Impact strategy & measurement 

• You will represent Now Teach externally on impact and evaluation, strengthening our reputation as a credible, evidence-led organisation and building partnerships that enhance our influence and learning across the sector. 

• Lead the further development, ongoing refinement and implementation of the charity’s theory of change

• Design and develop the monitoring and evaluation approach to underpin delivery of our Network Impact Framework 

• Ensure outcomes and indicators align with the charity’s mission, strategic priorities and funder requirements. 

• Work closely with the Data Manager to ensure data collection processes, systems and outputs are robust, consistent and of high quality, ensuring data collection opportunities are maximised 

• Contribute to the development of our surveys, to ensure robust data is captured to evidence and inform strategic priorities against our impact model. 

• Embed impact measurement, insight and learning into organisational planning and decision making. 

• Identify and action external research opportunities and priorities, leading on relationships with external research bodies and managing ongoing research projects 

• Support the development and continuous improvement of data/impact dashboards to share insight and learnings across organisation 

Learning & Continuous Improvement 

• Develop and strengthen our approach to sharing learning internally, ensuring insight is used to drive continuous improvement and great decision making. 

• Strengthen and further develop Now Teach’s monitoring, evaluation and impact systems, ensuring they are proportionate, effective and used in practice. 

• Identify insights and trends that support continuous improvement and work collaboratively across teams to act on learning. 

• Support teams to test, refine and improve approaches based on evidence and evaluation findings. 

• Act as a business partner and internal consultant, supporting teams to interpret data, reflect on findings and apply learning to their work, producing key recommendations for particular teams on an agreed basis and facilitating next steps with relevant Directors. 

Strategic Reporting and Strengthening our case for support 

• Lead on the production of high‑quality impact reporting for a range of stakeholders, including trustees and funders, and responsible for the annual impact report. 

• Work closely with the Philanthropy and Communications teams to ensure impact evidence strengthens Now Teach’s narrative and case for support, and that we fulfil our impact measurement obligations to donors. 

• Contribute to organisational strategy, ensuring impact insight and evidence are central to strategic decisions. 

KEY COLLABORATORS 

CEO 

Director of Network 

Director of Recruitment 

Director of Communications, Philanthropy & Marketing 

Head of Communications & Marketing 

Data Manager 

PERSON SPECFICIATION 

Who you are  

You’re an experienced impact leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment. You’re as comfortable setting the strategic direction for impact as you are getting hands-on with data, frameworks, and tools. 

You’re comfortable working on your own, organised, and confident managing competing priorities, bringing clarity and focus in a fast-paced setting. 

A natural collaborator and influencer, you work effectively across teams—making impact practical, accessible, and central to decision-making. 

You’re curious, reflective, and committed to continuous improvement, always looking for better ways to understand and strengthen impact. 

Above all, you’re passionate about improving outcomes for schools and students, and motivated to ensure that the impact of Now Teach is clearly evidenced and continues to grow 

What you’ll need to succeed in this role 

• A big picture thinker who can think strategically across the work of the organisation, and spot opportunities to maximise impact 
• Experience in impact measurement, evaluation, research or learning within the charity sector 
• Strong understanding of theories of change 
• Experience working with data and collaborating with data specialists to ensure quality, consistency and credibility of evidence. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex findings into clear, compelling messages. 
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and work effectively across teams.

Don’t meet every requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every qualification. At Now Teach we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway.   

WORKING AT NOW TEACH 

Our people join and stay because they value Now Teach’s flexibility, close-knit team culture and social purpose. 32% of employees at all levels of the organisation work part time and everyone works flexibly, with time off in lieu part of our standard working practices. We are a small, collaborative and supportive team of nearly 20 people. We are non-hierarchical, and we set clear expectations and celebrate the successes of teams and individuals.  

Our Vision 

Schools and students benefit from the inspiring professional and life experience of career change teachers. 

Our Values 

Now Teach has four core values which encompass how we work together to delivery our vision and mission: Drive impact through expertise; Focus on who matters most; Make change happen; and Build connections that amplify. 

Our culture and values are central to us encouraging and supporting people into teaching. Without our positive, honest, and flexible approach we wouldn’t be able to adapt to meet the needs of Now Teachers. We have been named as one of Escape the City’s Top 100 Employers in 2021 and 2022 and have been recognised as a Working Mums’ Top Employer and at the Working Dads Employer Awards. We have won awards for our Culture, Flexible Working and Excellence in Public Service.   

In return we offer you 

As well as flexible working and a great culture, we offer a wide range of benefits including 25 days annual leave per year (plus bank holidays), an additional 3 days for Christmas closure (25th Dec-1st January), a  pension scheme with a generous 11% employer contribution, enhanced parental leave policies, a rewards platform with employee discounts, access to an Employee Assistance Programme and an annual professional development budget for each employee. 

Working arrangements 

Full time/part time role, flexible working patterns possible. Now Teach are supported to work flexibly at co-working spaces or at home as needed with monthly working days in London. You will be required to cover your own travel expenses to London.

Application Process 

Please submit your CV and a cover letter (max. 2 pages for the cover letter).

Applications close on 16th June.

First stage interviews will take place on 25th or 29th June online.

Second stage interviews (if appropriate) will take place on 6th July in person at a location in London.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion 

Now Teach strives to be a workplace that is diverse, equitable and inclusive where we can ALL be ourselves. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, ages, gender identities, stages of life and those with hidden or visible disabilities.

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll endeavor to be as accommodating as possible. If you would like to discuss specific requirements, please contact us and ask to speak to the Operations team.

All applicants must have an existing Right to Work in the UK. 

Safe Recruitment Procedure 

Now Teach are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.To meet this responsibility, we follow a rigorous selection process, and all successful candidates will be subject to a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service check. 

Location: Contracted to our Peterborough office with the flexibility for hybrid working
Salary £50,000 - £55,000 FTE depending on experience
Full time: 37.5 hours per week; (would consider part time minimum 30 hours)
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: Monday 15 June 2026. We may extend the closing date, however, please apply as soon as possible.
 
Preliminary telephone interviews will be held on Friday 19 June 2026
In-person interviews will be held in Peterborough on 24 and 25 June 2026
 
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.
 
We are looking for a talented leader with a proven track record in building high-value corporate partnerships to lead our partnerships team, spanning corporate income, strategic collaborations and co-funding initiatives. You will bring a strong track record of securing significant income through corporate partners and innovative partnership models, alongside a deep understanding of the evolving corporate fundraising landscape. With proven experience in budget management, income forecasting and developing long-term partnership pipelines, you will play a key role in delivering our ambitious income and impact targets. You will have a passion for cultivating strategic relationships and going above and beyond to develop long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships that deliver shared value.
 
We operate a hybrid, flexible working style and fortnightly office attendance is required. The role is contracted to our Peterborough office and the team currently come together in person once a month. You will also be required to regularly attend external meetings and events.
 
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 have experience in the following: Head of Partnerships, Head of Corporate Partnerships, Partnerships Director, Corporate Partnerships Manager, Strategic Partnerships Lead, Business Development Director, Income Generation Lead, Fundraising Director, Corporate Fundraising Manager, Strategic Account Director, Relationship Director, Partnerships Lead, Charity, Charities, Third Sector, Not for Profit, NFP, etc.
 
REF-228 835

We’re looking for an exceptional Associate Director of Fundraising to lead one of the most ambitious and high-performing fundraising teams in the sector.  

At Blood Cancer UK, our fundraising is in a strong position. Over the last five years, we’ve doubled our income, achieved growth across every fundraising discipline, successfully launched new products, and reached new audiences.

We have fantastic momentum and the ambition to go even further. You would be joining us at an especially exciting time – we’re in the early stages of our first-ever major appeal and have already secured more than £8 million towards our £25 million target. Backed by a highly engaged and well-connected appeal board, this campaign has huge potential across Fundraising, but especially our high value audiences.

We’re looking for an experienced and confident high-value fundraiser — someone who can build authentic relationships with senior and influential supporters, open doors, and inspire people to be part of something transformative.

Alongside this, you’ll oversee our thriving mid-value and legacy fundraising programmes and help us deepen engagement with supporters across the UK.

Our community is the heartbeat of our organisation: passionate, determined people, often with a personal connection to blood cancer and a powerful desire to make a difference. With around five million people affected by blood cancer in the UK, the opportunity to grow our reach and impact is enormous.

You’ll bring ambition, passion and high standards, with the ability to lead and inspire a large, talented team of nearly 50 people. Collaboration will come naturally to you — you’ll build strong relationships across the organisation and be a key member of the Blood Cancer UK leadership team, creating a culture where people feel inspired to be their best.

Most importantly, you will make a real difference to the lives of people affected by blood cancer.

About Police Care UK

Police Care UK is the national, independent charity supporting serving and veteran members of the police community, and their families, when they’ve been physically or psychologically harmed through policing.
Demand for our services has grown by more than 400% in the last decade. This reflects the increasing impact of trauma in modern policing – from major incidents and serious violence to cumulative and vicarious trauma. We understand that harm doesn’t end with a shift, and that families are often affected too.

We’ve evolved from a traditional benevolent fund into a sector-leading organisation delivering evidence-informed support, trauma-focused recovery services and practical prevention programmes across UK policing. Our work is grounded in compassion, clarity and evidence, and we’re fiercely independent so we can focus on what people really need.

Our vision is simple: a future where every member of the police community has access to the care and support they need, and nobody faces the impact of harm alone. Based in Woking and working nationally, we’re committed to strengthening the people behind the force – and we’re looking for those who want to be a part of that work.

Role Purpose

Reporting to the Director of Development and working closely with the Executive Leadership Team, the Head of Insight and Innovation will lead the Charity’s research, data, evaluation and innovation functions. This is a strategic leadership role responsible for embedding a culture of evidence-informed practice, continuous improvement and sector-leading innovation across the Charity. 

The postholder will ensure that our insight drives decision-making, strengthens fundraising, informs service design and positions Police Care UK as a thought leader within the policing and blue light sectors. This will involve leading a multi-disciplinary team, with responsibility for future growth of the Insight and Innovation function as organisational needs evolve.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the development of our long-term insight and innovation strategy.
• Ensure data, evidence and evaluation meaningfully influence strategic planning and resource allocation.
• Drive horizon scanning across policing, mental health and the charity sector to inform organisational priorities.

Research and Academic Development

• Oversee our research portfolio, including academic collaborations and commissioned studies.
• Translate research findings into actionable recommendations that strengthen our services, policy influence and fundraising.
• Ensure our understanding of unmet need across the policing family remains current and robust.

Data, CRM and Impact Intelligence

• Lead the strategic development of our CRM and data systems.
• Embed strong KPI frameworks, dashboards and impact reporting across the charity.
• Ensure high standards of data governance, integrity and compliance.

Innovation and Service Development

• Lead our innovation pipeline, from discovery and prototyping to pilot evaluation and scaling.
• Embed co-production with beneficiaries and policing partners.
• Develop business cases and secure funding for new initiatives. 

Monitoring, Evaluation and Impact

• Oversee our success measurement framework and ensure outcomes are evidenced and clearly articulated.
• Produce high-value insight for funders, trustees and external stakeholders.

Governance and External Representation

• Provide high-quality insight and reporting to the Board of Trustees.
• Represent the charity externally across academic, sector and policy forums.
• Uphold the highest standards of safeguarding, ethics and data protection.

Person Specification

Essential

• Degree-level education and ongoing professional development.
• Significant senior experience in research, insight, evaluation or organisational development.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable insight.
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams and driving data-informed decision-making.
• Excellent communication skills, including presenting to senior stakeholders and Boards.
• Strong understanding of mental health, trauma or wellbeing in a public-sector or charity context.
• Knowledge of evaluation methodologies, data governance and ethical research standards.

Desirable

• Postgraduate qualification in a relevant field.
• Experience within policing, emergency services or the wider blue-light sector.
• Experience securing research or innovation funding.
• Knowledge of innovation methodologies (e.g. design thinking, co-production, agile).

Why work with us

You’ll be joining a forward-thinking, committed and values driven team making a real difference to the people who keep our communities safe.  We offer:

• Enhanced wellbeing support
• Pension scheme with up to 8% employer contributions
• Development opportunities
• A 35-hour working week
• A supportive, collaborative culture
• The chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of police officers, staff, volunteers, and their families

How to Apply:  Please submit your CV and a detailed cover letter explaining why you’re the right fit for this role. Applications are assessed on a rolling basis, so please apply as soon as you are able. 

Limitations: This job description is neither exclusive nor exhaustive. The duties and responsibilities may vary from time to time in the light of changing circumstances in consultation with the jobholder. The jobholder will be required to work within the rules and regulations of the Charity and accept the authority of the Chief Executive, who has the discretion to delegate authority to the jobholder and to withdraw it.

Equal Opportunities Policy: The Charity is committed to eliminating any discrimination and promoting diversity and equality of opportunity in all it does.

The Charity is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment, and we will not unlawfully discriminate against job applicants, employees of the Charity, volunteers, workers, or contract workers on the grounds of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race (which includes colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins) religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

REF-228 334

Reports to:  Chief Executive Officer   

Location:  Flexible: monthly co-working days in London and additional regular stakeholder meetings as required nationwide. 

Salary:  £45,000 - £50,000  

Hours: Full time; 37.5 hours a week , We are happy to consider requests for flexible or part time working  

Contract : Permanent  

ABOUT THE ROLE 

Role overview 

The Head of MAT and School Partnerships will build and lead a high-impact portfolio of strategic MAT partnerships that improve recruitment, retention and long-term success for career change teachers while strengthening outcomes for schools and pupils. 

This is a pivotal leadership role at the heart of Now Teach’s next phase of growth and impact. The postholder will play a central role in shaping how we work with MATs nationally and how career change teachers are recruited, supported and retained within schools serving disadvantaged communities.

You will also work closely with the Director of Network and Head of Impact to develop a school engagement, impact and advocacy strategy across the 500 schools where our 1,000-strong Now Teacher Network currently teach.

In this role you will……   

Lead the design, delivery and evolution of Now Teach’s MAT partnership strategy aimed at ensuring Now Teacher impact in schools. You will support teams to deliver on their agreed recruitment targets and network offer commitments , establishing and growing a portfolio of deeply engaged partners who get it right for their career change teachers.

You will create and maintain strategic relationships, act as a sector expert for growth opportunities, influence and negotiate at senior levels and demonstrate excellent communication skills. Strong judgement and relentless customer focus will be essential as you build customer loyalty and enhance MAT and school advocacy and ultimately, our impact. 

Key responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership  

• Lead the further development,  execution and continuous improvement of the charity’s MAT and School strategy   

• Feed your knowledge into decisions that will support us to increase our footprint in schools serving areas of greater socio-economic disadvantage 

• Use partnership insight and data to inform organisational strategy and decision-making 

• As a member of the extended leadership team, you will contribute to wider organisational planning, decision-making and strategic development 

Partner Development and Account Management 

• Identify and action external landscape opportunities leading on relationships with relevant sector partners 

• Build and manage a high-quality pipeline of prospective MAT partners who embed the Now Teach model successfully and champion its impact across the sector 

• Shape the development of CRM and partnership management systems that enable high-quality and scalable account management 

• Maintain robust partnership governance, ensuring compliance with contractual agreements and organisational standards 

• Design and deliver an approach for engaging existing partner schools to strengthen relationships and maximise Network impact. 

• Oversee a suite of messaging and materials that can be used to brief external audiences and pitch to potential partners supported by Now Teach Communications colleagues 

• Manage a lighter touch relationship rhythm with a wider set of training providers in our portfolio.

Cross-Organisational Delivery 

• Define and embed scalable partnership delivery models across recruitment and network teams to ensure successful delivery of agreed partnership models with up to 8 priority partners in year 1 growing to up to 15 over the next 3 years 

• Work with the Leadership team to implement required changes so that by 2030, 70% of new Now Teach recruits are placed with priority partners and experience an integrated Network offer achieving sector-leading satisfaction scores from Now Teachers and partner schools 

• Deliver on our ambition for 60% of all new Now Teachers to be teaching in schools serving areas of greater disadvantage by 2030 

 Business Development & External Influence 

• Secure partnership income targets, negotiate partnership contributions, and drive commercial sustainability, working closely with COO/Finance Manager on ongoing cost models. 

• Position Now Teach as a leading strategic partner for MATs seeking to recruit and retain high-quality career change teachers 

• Represent Now Teach externally across the education sector, building credibility and influence with MAT leaders, system partners and sector stakeholders 

• Maintain deep understanding of MAT priorities, workforce challenges and sector developments 

Impact, Evaluation & Continuous Improvement  

• Work closely with the Head of Impact to monitor and evaluate partnership work

• Identify insights and trends that support continuous improvement and work collaboratively across teams to iterate our future partnership models 

• Deliver and monitor data sharing agreements with priority partners working closely with our Data Manager and Head of Technology to ensure high quality and robust data sets

• Monitor and report on pipeline progress and established success metrics as part of the leadership team, course correcting as required 

PERSON SPECIFICATION 

Who you are (qualities/values) 

• You thrive when operating in ambiguity and can implement new approaches from the ground up 

• You enjoy being part of a small team where people work together to drive work forward  

• You are highly self-directed and comfortable leading complex workstreams independently

• You are credible operating with senior education leaders and understand the realities facing MATs and schools 

• You’re skilled at aligning colleagues (internally and externally) around a shared delivery plan 

• You’re committed to your own personal and professional development  

• You’re passionate about ensuring that schools and students benefit from the inspiring professional and life experience of career change teachers.  

What you’ll need to succeed in this role  

• Ability to think strategically and spot opportunities to maximise organisational impact 

• Proven track record of translating strategy into scalable operational delivery and measurable impact 

• Proven experience building and managing senior strategic partnerships, ideally within education, public sector or mission-driven organisations to achieve success metrics 

• Experience influencing senior stakeholders including CEOs, MAT executives or system leaders and shaping compelling propositions 

• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation capability

• A relentless focus on exceptional partner experience and reputation enhancement 

• Strong ability to lead through influence across cross-functional teams and external stakeholders

• A commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. 

Don’t meet every requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every qualification. At Now Teach we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway. 

WORKING AT NOW TEACH 

Our people join and stay because they value Now Teach’s flexibility, close-knit team culture and social purpose. 32% of employees at all levels of the organisation work part time and everyone works flexibly, with time off in lieu part of our standard working practices. We are a small, collaborative and supportive team of nearly 20 people. We are non-hierarchical, and we set clear expectations and celebrate the successes of teams and individuals.  

Our Vision 

Schools and students benefit from the inspiring professional and life experience of career change teachers. 

Our Values 

Now Teach has four core values which encompass how we work together to delivery our vision and mission: Drive impact through expertise; Focus on who matters most; Make change happen; and Build connections that amplify. 

Our culture and values are central to us encouraging and supporting people into teaching. Without our positive, honest, and flexible approach we wouldn’t be able to adapt to meet the needs of Now Teachers. We have been named as one of Escape the City’s Top 100 Employers in 2021 and 2022 and have been recognised as a Working Mums’ Top Employer and at the Working Dads Employer Awards. We have won awards for our Culture, Flexible Working and Excellence in Public Service.   

In return we offer you 

As well as flexible working and a great culture, we offer a wide range of benefits including 25 days annual leave per year (plus bank holidays), an additional 3 days for Christmas closure (25th Dec-1st January), a  pension scheme with a generous 11% employer contribution, enhanced parental leave policies, a rewards platform with employee discounts, access to an Employee Assistance Programme and an annual professional development budget for each employee. 

Working arrangements 

Full time/part time role, flexible working patterns possible. Now Teach are supported to work flexibly at co-working spaces or at home as needed with monthly working days in London. You will be required to cover your own travel expenses to London.

Application Process 

Please submit your CV and a cover letter (max. 2 pages for the cover letter)

Applications close on 15th June 

First stage interviews will take place on 24th June online 

Second stage interviews (if appropriate) will take place on 1st July in person at a location in London

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion 

Now Teach strives to be a workplace that is diverse, equitable and inclusive where we can ALL be ourselves. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, ages, gender identities, stages of life and those with hidden or visible disabilities.

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll endeavor to be as accommodating as possible. If you would like to discuss specific requirements, please contact us and ask to speak to the Operations Team.

All applicants must have an existing Right to Work in the UK. 

Safe Recruitment Procedure 

Now Teach are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.To meet this responsibility, we follow a rigorous selection process, and all successful candidates will be subject to a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service check. 

This role is being advertised as a Receptionist however the successful applicant will be employed as a Client Care Coordinator.

⌚ Hours: 37.5 hours per week (with the occasional Saturday)

We are looking for a compassionate and professional Client Care Coordinator to join our supportive team. This is a rewarding customer-facing role where you will support clients both in person and over the phone, providing reassurance, clear information, and a calm, empathetic approach during what can often be sensitive or challenging situations. We are seeking someone who is confident working with the general public and passionate about delivering exceptional care and support.

What we’re looking for:

• Previous customer-facing experience, ideally working directly with the general public
• Strong communication skills with the ability to remain calm, empathetic, and professional in difficult or emotional situations
• A caring, approachable nature and a genuine desire to support others

Full training and ongoing support will be provided, along with great transport links, on-site parking, and only one Saturday shift every two months.

Interviews for successful candidates will take place on Friday, 29th May.

Why Join Us?

We offer a supportive, values-driven environment where your contribution is recognised and rewarded:

�� Financial & Rewards: Aviva pension (up to 5% employer contribution), Blue Light Card discounts (4,000+ perks), Cycle to Work scheme, season ticket loan, and long-service recognition rewards.

�� Wellbeing & Work–Life Balance: Opportunity to buy and sell annual leave, 24/7 GP access and EAP via Westfield Health, an extra day off for your birthday, accredited Mental Health First Aiders, family-friendly policies and a national employee recognition programme.

�� Learning & Career Development: Clear career pathways, paid training and development, accredited apprenticeships, and learning agreements to support your professional growth.

The COO will translate BLiM's mission and strategy and ensure its well-run, properly resourced, with its ambitious day-to-day delivery. You will free the CEO to focus on strategic leadership and external influence by owning operations, people management, financial oversight and internal systems.

The COO will be a senior leader who shapes organisational culture, makes operational decisions, manages complex stakeholder relationships and drives the performance of a passionate, high-commitment team. You will be the person the organisation looks to when it needs clarity, stability and momentum.

The COO joins at a moment of leadership transition following the departure of BLiM's co-founder and Director of Operations.

Why Join Us:

Black Lives in Music (BLiM) is a not-for-profit dedicated to advancing racial equity across the UK music industry. We amplify the voices of Black artists, music professionals and communities; drive systemic change; and hold the industry accountable for meaningful progress. Through research, advocacy, programming and strategic partnerships, BLiM creates the conditions for Black talent to thrive.

BLiM has published ground-breaking research including the Being Black in the UK Music Industry report, produced the UK's first Black classical music festival in Classically Black, influenced government policy on live music licensing, and built a network of over 100 partner organisations across the four nations. BLiM is now entering a new phase of its development, with a strengthened leadership team, a Target Operating Model designed to carry the organisation beyond its founding era, and an ambition to become the UK's most influential voice for racial equity in music.

Person Specification 

Essential

• Significant experience in a senior operational leadership role, ideally as a COO, Head of Operations or Director of Operations in a charity, social enterprise or purpose-driven organisation.

• Demonstrable track record of building and improving operational infrastructure: systems, processes, policies and ways of working that make organisations more effective and resilient.

• Proven people management experience, including line management of senior staff, performance development, recruitment and team culture-building.

• Strong financial literacy, including experience of budget management, grant compliance, financial reporting and working with a board finance function.

• Experience of leading or supporting governance processes, including board reporting, risk management and compliance.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex operational information into clear, accessible reports and presentations for senior stakeholders.

• A genuine, demonstrable commitment to racial equity and an understanding of the specific systemic barriers faced by Black professionals, artists and communities.

• The emotional intelligence and interpersonal skill to lead with care, build trust quickly and navigate complex relationships under pressure.

• The resilience and adaptability to thrive in a small, fast-paced, mission-driven organisation where the work is varied, the stakes are high and no day is the same.

Desirable

• Experience of working in or with the music industry, creative industries or arts and culture sector.

• Familiarity with Arts Council England funding frameworks, charity law and the regulatory environment for non-profit organisations.

• Experience of implementing or managing a CRM system, project management platform or other operational technology.

• Knowledge of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) frameworks and how to embed inclusive practice into operational systems and culture.

• Experience of leading an organisation through a period of significant change, transition or growth.

• An existing network within the UK music sector, creative industries or racial equity and social justice space.

At BLiM, we're interviewing on a rolling basis, so we'd encourage you to apply sooner rather than later!

To be considered for a first interview, please include a Cover Letter with your application. This initial conversation will be relaxed and informal, and we'll take you through the full interview process together so you know exactly what to expect at every stage.

Contract
Full-time, permanent
(We welcome proposals for flexible working arrangements)

Salary
£55k per annum

This is a newly created role. with responsibility for financial management owned previously by the Executive Director, supported by the Head of Finance & Operations. In the refreshed structure operational and finance functions are separated.

The purpose of this role is to ensure the organisation is financially sustainable, well governed, and able to deliver its mission effectively. You will lead the financial management of the organisation, ensuring robust financial control, high-quality reporting, and effective financial planning to support strategic decision-making and long-term sustainability. This is a hands-on, collaborative role in a busy team, spanning both strategic and operational finance.

Being a success in this role will essentially balance three things at the same time:
1. Financial stability, control and risk management
2. Artistic and charitable ambition
3. Long-term organisational resilience and sustainable growth

Over the last two years the Festival has refreshed a number of our platforms and ways of working, including updating our CRM, ticketing and finance systems (Xero). We have worked with an external consultancy firm who have reviewed our systems and processes in finance and recommended new approaches; we are seeking a financial leader who can continue to progress this transformation, embedding new systems and ways of working across the team, while managing the busy annual BAU finance operations. We are in year two of a refreshed Strategic Plan, with a focus on building organisational resilience, maximising income and building new revenue streams; our new Finance Director will play a key role in realising these ambitions.

The role will be the key liaison with the Audit & Risk Committee of the Board of Trustees.

Key Responsibilities:

• Financial leadership
• Financial reporting and insight
• Festival and programme support
• Sustainability and development support
• Systems and data
• Compliance, governance and risk management
• Leadership and team management

Essential Knowledge, skills and experience

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent experience)
• Significant senior financial management experience including Xero accounting system
• Experience of budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning
• Experience preparing statutory accounts and managing audits 
• Strong understanding of financial controls and governance
• Experience presenting financial information to boards or trustees
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work strategically and operationally in a fast-paced environment

For full information on key responsibilities and person specifications please see full Job Description on Edinburgh International Book Festival Website.

Key Dates:

Closing date for applications: Monday 29th June 2026. Please complete the online application using the links on our website. 

Interviews will be held in central Edinburgh during the week of 6th July. Remote interview requests will be considered but in person is preferred.