170 Head of research and development jobs

About us

New Local has a mission to transform public services and unlock community power. We publish research, lead peer learning, influence government and work with public sector organisations on some of today’s most pressing issues, informed by our network of 50-plus local authority members.

All of our work is guided by a belief in community power - the principle that communities themselves have the best insight into their own circumstances and should be able to participate in shaping their places and services. We believe that active, empowered communities should be at the heart of a wider shift towards place-based public services and a system focused on prevention, which can lead to better outcomes and a more sustainable system for all.

Purpose

Our Head of Practice role sits within our Practice and Programmes team. You will lead the development and delivery of a portfolio of practice work whilst also contributing to New Local's policy and thought leadership work. We are committed to strengthening the feedback loops between practice and policy locally, regionally and nationally and this role is key to this.

In our practice work you will solve challenges alongside councils, other public sector partners and communities, supporting them to deepen the impact of innovative place-based approaches and to understand the conditions needed for them to grow. You will be leading projects, working alongside delivery partners where needed, managing other New Local team members, to deliver high-quality work and impact for our partners.

Our thought leadership and policy approach is deeply rooted in our practice and peer-learning networks.You will draw on the pioneering work we see in places, and with our members, to support New Local's work to inform the national policy conversation about the conditions and enablers needed for places to accelerate and grow innovation in place-based, preventative and relational working.

Key tasks and responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of practice projects, ensuring effective project management so that practice work is delivered within budget and to agreed timelines.
• Lead the delivery of projects within our practice portfolio, using a range of innovation and practice approaches including design, facilitation, strategy development, user-centred design, adaptive and collaborative learning, and approaches that enable partners to test, learn and adapt.
• Build and maintain excellent relationships with partners and clients for our practice work, across local government, the wider public sector and communities, placing an emphasis on collaborative working, co-design and building the relationships needed to support meaningful change.
• Develop and grow our practice work and generate revenues through deepening client relationships, creatively developing and responding to new partnership and business opportunities, including writing proposals and devising project budgets, aligned to our organisational purpose and vision.
• Lead effective project management of our activities, working with colleagues and partners to deliver high-quality work and impact within agreed budgets and timelines.
• Work with clients and the wider New Local team to connect practice, strategy and policy, drawing out learning from innovation and working with partners to translate this into changes in policy, strategy, systems and services, while contributing to wider thinking about the conditions needed to enable and scale change. 
• Model and promote the integration of practice and policy, through testing and iterating New Local's integrated policy and practice model and proactively contributing to our thought leadership and policy work.
• Model and promote collaborative working across New Local, including with our network and communications teams, using your practice expertise and learning from projects to strengthen the wider impact of our work on community power and public service reform.

How to apply

For the full job description, person specification and details on how to apply, please visit New Local's website.

About the team

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

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

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

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

About this role

The Head of Engagement is a strategically significant and high-impact role within the Philanthropy team, responsible for leading and developing Impetus’ engagement programme across both volunteering and pro bono support.

At Impetus, volunteering refers to opportunities for employees of our donor firms to engage directly with the young people supported by our portfolio partners, helping to inspire, motivate and broaden horizons through meaningful interactions.

Pro bono support is a core element of our capacity-building approach and a key way in which we strengthen the organisations we back. It involves skilled volunteers and partners contributing professional expertise to address strategic challenges and opportunities within our charity portfolio, helping to build capability, resilience and long-term impact.

The Head of Engagement will shape the strategic direction and lead the delivery of a high-quality programme of volunteering and skilled pro bono support, creating meaningful outcomes for portfolio partners while delivering engaging and rewarding experiences for supporters. The postholder will ensure that engagement opportunities align with Impetus’ investment priorities and organisational objectives, respond to donor interests, and maximise impact for the young people and charities we serve.

The role combines strategic leadership, relationship management, programme innovation and operational oversight. Working closely with colleagues across Philanthropy and Investment, and engaging regularly with Public Affairs and senior leaders, the Head of Engagement will build, steward and deepen relationships with a wide network of corporate partners, major donors, and highly skilled volunteers.

The postholder will also lead and develop the Engagement team, comprising the Engagement Manager and Engagement Officer, fostering a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture that enables exceptional delivery, continuous improvement and professional growth.

As a key member of the Philanthropy leadership team, the Head of Engagement will play a central role in expanding and strengthening Impetus' supporter network, developing innovative opportunities for supporters to contribute their time and expertise, and ensuring our volunteering and pro bono programmes continue to evolve in response to the changing needs of young people, charities and partners.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape and grow a critical area of Impetus’ work, harnessing the expertise, networks and commitment of supporters to help more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed in school, work and life.

Key responsibilities

Strategy and Leadership 

• Develop and deliver the engagement strategy and operational plan for the pro bono and volunteering functions
• Set and monitor KPIs, targets and budgets for engagement activity in line with organisational frameworks, securing approval from senior leadership where appropriate
• Lead the continued growth and development of volunteering and pro bono activity in alignment with organisational strategy and portfolio partner needs
• Work collaboratively with senior colleagues across Philanthropy and Investment to align engagement opportunities with organisational priorities
• Lead prospecting for the pro bono function, understanding the needs of our Investment Team and portfolio partners, identifying gaps in supporter skills and expertise and onboarding new organisations and specialisms 
• As the organisational lead for volunteering and pro bono engagement, advise senior leadership on engagement trends, sharing insights, learning and volunteering best practice internally and externally
• Lead, develop and coach the Engagement Team, creating a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture and ensuring clear objectives, development opportunities and succession planning 
• Provide guidance, support and oversight of delivery to the Engagement Team, line managing the Engagement Manager and supporting the development of the Engagement Officer

Volunteering programme 

• Lead the strategic development and continuous improvement of a high-quality volunteering programme, ensuring it delivers value for portfolio partners, corporate and donor partners and young people.
• Oversee programme quality and effectiveness across all volunteering activities.
• Build capability and strong relationships with portfolio organisations to support the design and delivery of high-quality volunteering opportunities
• Monitor participation, impact and quality across the volunteering programme, using data and feedback to drive improvements.
• Work closely with account managers in the Philanthropy and Partnerships team to drive and steward donor engagement.
• Develop new models of volunteering in collaboration with the Engagement Team, including governance and trustee pathways, skills-based workshops and intensive challenge clinics.

Pro Bono programme 

• Lead the development of the organisation’s pro bono programme and oversee the delivery of activities, ensuring high-quality support for portfolio partners.
• Set annual pro bono targets (including project value, number of projects, and supporter engagement) and lead the team to deliver on these
• Oversee the maintenance of a strong pipeline of projects from portfolio partners and supporters that meet the needs of portfolio partners.
• Source and cultivate new pro bono supporters, including companies and highly skilled individual professionals.
• Oversee and contribute to business development activity including prospect research, outreach, relationship building and partnership development.
• Steward existing strategic supporter relationships and create compelling supporter journeys that communicate impact and strengthen long-term engagement.
• Work closely with the Investment Team to identify, scope and prioritise pro bono projects, and work with the team to improve quality and impact in project delivery. 
• Ensure an effective team approach to project identification, prioritisation and matching across the programme.
• For select high-priority projects, directly match portfolio partner needs with appropriate supporters, ensuring an effective and high-quality project experience, with support from the Engagement Manager.
• Support select high-priority project kick-off meetings and maintain oversight of project delivery, stakeholder management and follow-up processes.
• Ensure appropriate evaluation processes are in place to capture project impact, supporter feedback and learning.
• Own quality assurance, review programme outcomes and impact data to drive continuous improvement
• Collaborate with the Events team to design and run relevant supporter engagement events.

Relationship Management and Donor Engagement 

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with both new and existing corporate partners, major donors, volunteers, pro bono supporters and charity / sector stakeholders.
• Lead strategic account management of donors and supporters.
• Act as a key Account Manager for strategic engagement partnerships, notably the most high-value Pro Bono relationships.
• Work closely with account managers and senior stakeholders to maximise supporter engagement and long-term partnership opportunities.
• Contribute to the creation of compelling communications and marketing materials that demonstrate the value and impact of engagement activity.
• Represent Impetus externally at meetings, events and networking opportunities building effective and inclusive partnerships.

Operations, Systems and Reporting 

• Oversee the effective administration and operational delivery of the engagement function.
• Ensure accurate data management and reporting through Salesforce and related systems by the Engagement team.
• Maintain oversight of engagement pipelines, financial tracking and programme reporting.
• Lead quarterly reviews and reporting processes through the analysis and presentation of engagement data.
• Develop and improve systems, processes and operational efficiency across the engagement function.
• Ensure all activities comply with organisational policies, procedures and best practice.

Cross-Organisational Working

• Form part of the Philanthropy and Partnerships Leads group to lead and drive performance against fundraising targets and strategy.
• Collaborate closely with the Investment Team to identify opportunities for volunteering and pro bono support, especially driving innovation for both programmes.
• Build strong internal relationships to ensure engagement activity is coordinated and effectively communicated across teams.
• Attend and support Impetus events where required.
• Represent the Philanthropy team on internal projects, working groups and committees.
• Support wider team priorities and contribute to a collaborative and inclusive working culture.

Person specification

Essential

• Excellent relationship management skills with experience across a range of sectors, and track record working productively with senior stakeholders in corporate and charity organisations, including internally.
• Strong business development skills, with experience identifying and developing new relationships, partnerships, and engagement opportunities.
• Experience translating strategic priorities into operational plans, objectives and delivery.
• Strong project and programme management skills, including managing multiple priorities, budgets, timelines and stakeholders.
• Experience and understanding of how to design and implement inclusive, accessible and engaging experiences for a range of audiences, including young people and corporate supporters.
• Experience managing line reports or leading teams including coaching, supporting and enabling others to deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Strong analytical and organisational skills.
• Ability to identify opportunities, solve complex problems and contribute innovative and creative ideas.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences internally and externally through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• A collaborative and flexible working style with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Impetus.
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Experience working in, or closely with, the charity, youth, education or employment sectors.

Desirable

• In depth understanding of the corporate donor and philanthropy landscape.
• Experience in corporate fundraising or donor engagement, in particular with the financial services and investment sectors.
• Significant experience overseeing either a large corporate volunteering programme or a pro bono programme (e.g. 50+ projects).
• Experience working with Salesforce.
• Expertise in evaluation or impact measurement.
• In-depth understanding of the education and/or youth employment sectors in the UK.

About Impetus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Values

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

We are brave and curious

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

We bring high trust, high challenge

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

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

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

We thrive through diversity

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

We always seek collaboration

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

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our employee benefits

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

How to apply

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

You will need to:

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

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

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

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

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 28th September 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

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

Personal Data

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

Research Programmes Manager

We have established a number of high-profile strategic initiatives to help us advance our work towards a cure. We now have an exciting opportunity for a Research Programme Manager to support the successful ongoing delivery of two of our major initiatives, the Drug Discovery Alliance and Brains for Dementia Research, and collaborate across the organisation and externally to maximise their impact. Where required, the successful candidate will also support the ongoing delivery of our other major initiatives, working collaboratively across the organisation to maximise their impact both internally and externally.

This role sits within the Strategic Programmes team in the Research Directorate, an ambitious, supportive and friendly team that funds the best research to transform the lives of people affected by all forms of dementia. We’re looking for someone with strong programme management experience, a good eye for detail and who is excited by the opportunities in the dementia research landscape.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the delivery of two of ARUK’s major initiatives, Drug Discovery Alliance (DDA) and Brains for Dementia Research (BDR), and other initiatives as required:

· Develop a deep understanding of the programmes, acting as a point of knowledge and expertise

· Implement robust and proportionate review processes to oversee delivery of objectives and manage risks

· Ensure finances are effectively reported on and managed, working with the Research Funding and Finance teams

· Lead the preparation of papers and briefings for meetings, and support the Research Officer to ensure minutes and actions are captured and followed up on

Monitor and disseminate the impact of the DDA and BDR, to effectively tell the story of the initiatives and identify gaps:

· Monitor key programme progress, scientific developments and major outputs

· Work with the Impact team to ensure data gathered from the programme meets the needs of the wider organisation in terms of communicating progress and impact

· Work with the Public Involvement team to ensure the initiatives are reflective of the needs of people with lived experience

Stakeholder management

· Build strong relationships with stakeholders across the initiatives to identify opportunities to maximise their impact and value.

· Collaborate with the Head of Strategic Programmes and colleagues across the Research Directorate and wider ARUK to identify opportunities to strengthen programme objectives, provide updates on progress, and promote achievements.

· Act as a key point of contact and subject matter expert for the initiatives, both internally and externally.

· Support development of the strategic programme team’s strategy:

· Contribute to internal meetings, including discussions and content on strategic programmes and new initiatives

· Maintain up to date knowledge of developments in the dementia research field

· Attend meetings and events to build relationships and promote our strategic programmes

· Support the Research Leadership team to enhance ARUK’s external profile through active participation in meetings and collaborations with key stakeholders

Line Management Responsibilities:

· Line management of a Research Officer, effectively delegating work to support delivery of their objectives

· Help to promote an inspiring team culture where personal development is prioritised

Knowledge, skills and experience needed:

· Degree in Biomedical Science, or equivalent relevant knowledge and experience.

· Experience and/or in-depth knowledge in early-stage drug discovery, ideally in dementia

· Proven experience managing large programmes of work, preferably in the healthcare, research or charity sector

· Strong project management skills, with experience managing multiple priorities, overseeing budgets and identifying risks

· Proven ability to build and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including external partners and suppliers

· Experience defining programme requirements and using data and metrics to determine improvements

· Experience of managing staff and/or leading the delivery of work through others.

· Commitment to ARUK’s vision, mission and values

· Good analytical skills demonstrated by a structured and methodical approach

· Excellent eye for detail with a focus on continuous improvement

· Strong communication skills both oral and written with the ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences

· Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task, prioritise competing demands

· Demonstrated stakeholder management (internal & external), and problem-solving skills

· Ability to manage a varied workload and prioritise tasks, work under pressure and meet deadlines

· Ability to use own initiative, with a proactive and problem-solving attitude

· Willingness to travel, including occasional overnight travel

Additional Information:

Ways of working: As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £44,000 per annum, plus benefits.

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 20th September 2026, with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website. 

How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure.  Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope. 

Westway Trust is seeking a dedicated Head of Operations with a minimum of 5 years’ senior leadership or operational management experience in a multi-disciplinary organisation, ideally within a community, charitable, social enterprise or values-led setting.

In this newly created role, you will act as a key advisor, reporting directly into the CEO, and will have responsibility of key areas of the Trust’s operational functions, ensuring the smooth and effective running and delivery of services. You will directly manage the leads of HR, Learning, Communications & Marketing, and Community Engagement, supporting them to deliver high-quality work and develop professionally.

If you are a values-led operational leader who is committed to community transformation and organisational excellence, and thrives on steering strategic decisions, this role is for you!

Key responsibilities of the role include but not limited to:

• Oversight and line management of the HR, Learning, Communications & Marketing, and Community Engagement functions of the Trust.
• Oversight of key projects essential to the delivery of the Horizon (strategic) Plan 2025-2028 as agreed with the CEO.
• Be a key part of the Executive Team, chaired by the CEO.
• Maintain an overview of all projects and programmes of activity, outputs and outcomes within the role and ensure reports are written and submitted on time.
• Provide day-to-day operational leadership across teams, driving high performance, alignment with values, and maintaining individual, personal & team wellbeing.
• Develop and implement planning processes and performance management tools to ensure effective delivery of goals.
• Develop, drive and maintain the data gathering and analysis for the Westway Trust, that enables the Social Impact Framework and to play a key role in the organisation’s progress towards creating a strong narrative in respect of achievement.
• Attend People Committee Meetings and the Board as requested, and contribute to the preparation of meeting papers as necessary in line with agenda requirements.
• Provide upward reporting and insight to the CEO including written briefings, performance dashboards, and recommendations.
• Attend internal and external meetings, including those that require representing the Trust publicly, in line with agreed strategies and perspectives.
• Monitor, update and ensure compliance with organisational policies and legal requirements (e.g. safeguarding, employment, health & safety, data protection) to build a positive work culture.
• Champion collaboration and integration across departments, ensuring consistent implementation of work priorities that align with community needs and objectives.
• Support a values-based culture that centres equity, sustainability, openness, courage, and integrity.
• Contribute to organisational development and support the process of communicating and managing change effectively at the Trust in line with agreed policies and frameworks.

Essential Experience, Skills and Attributes:

• Minimum 5 years’ senior leadership or operational management experience in a multi-disciplinary organisation, ideally within a community, charitable, social enterprise or values-led setting.
• Proven ability to lead, guide and motivate diverse teams and to support the professional growth of those who report to you as a line manager.
• Demonstrable experience of good practice approaches to conflict resolution, working in collaboration with others and encouraging honesty, transparency and open ways of working across teams that benefit the organisation’s effectiveness and efficiency.
• Excellent planning, organisation and performance management skills.
• Excellent writing and reporting skills, including the ability to summarise complex data and issues for decision-makers.
• Experience in researching, developing and managing departmental budgets.
• Ability to analyse information, and formulate practical and reasoned operational plans that can be easily understood and monitored.
• Strong interpersonal and emotional intelligence skills – able to offer both moral and professional support to teams.
• Experience of supporting organisational change, transition, or transformation programmes.
• Experience of embedding inclusive and equitable practices across teams.
• Demonstrable alignment with the Trust’s values and commitment to anti-racism and community power.

Desirable Experience, Skills and Attributes:

• Previous experience overseeing HR or education/community programmes is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with communications/marketing functions is a plus but not essential.
• Degree-level education together with a recognised professional qualification in any of the fields this role covers – or equivalent lived/professional experience – is highly desirable.

The application deadline is 5 pm on Sunday, 27 September, when applications will be reviewed and shortlisted for interview. However, we reserve the right to close the application early. An early application is strongly recommended.

Job Title: Mass Participation Event Manager 

Location: Hybrid, minimum 1 day per week in our London Bridge office 

Contract: Permanent

Working Pattern: Full-time role based on a 32-hour working week across four days

Reporting to: Head of Fundraising (Community & Events) 

Salary: £35,000 – £37,000 per annum 

About Spinal Research 

Every two hours, someone in the UK becomes paralysed. Globally, more than 15 million people live with paralysis. At Spinal Research, our vision is a world where paralysis can be cured. We fund groundbreaking research to deliver life-changing treatments for people with spinal cord injuries. By backing the brightest minds and fostering innovation, we are driving progress towards what could be the medical breakthrough of the 21st century: curing paralysis. We will not stop until that future is achieved. 

The Role 

This is an exciting opportunity to join our Events team in a newly created management role, building on four years of significant growth and success across our mass participation programme.

As Mass Participation Event Manager, you will play a key role in shaping the future direction of the programme while driving continued growth in income, participation and supporter engagement. You will have responsibility for the development, performance and delivery of the mass participation portfolio, working closely with the Head of Fundraising (Community & Events) to grow income, participation and engagement.

Alongside this overall responsibility, you will have direct ownership of your own area of the portfolio, including the Great North Run, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, Cape Town Marathon and our wider challenges programme. You will manage these events from recruitment and participant onboarding through to fundraising, event-day delivery and post-event stewardship, while supporting the Head of Fundraising (C&E) with our flagship London Marathon.

You will also line manage the Events Junior Officer, who will have direct responsibility for their own allocated events. You will provide leadership, direction and support to ensure their events are delivered successfully and contribute to the wider mass participation goals.

This is a senior, hands-on role. You will be expected to lead the development of the overall programme while remaining directly involved in the day-to-day delivery of your own events. This includes recruiting and stewarding participants, developing campaigns, managing budgets and suppliers, speaking directly with supporters and being hands-on at events. 

Key Responsibilities 

· Strategy & Growth: Grow the mass participation portfolio, increasing income, participation and engagement through insight-led planning.

· Supporter Recruitment & Stewardship: Lead recruitment campaigns and deliver excellent supporter journeys from sign-up to post-event stewardship.

· Event & Portfolio Management: Manage allocated events end to end, including budgets, logistics, suppliers, event-day delivery and major event support.

· Team Management: Line manage the Events Junior Officer, providing direction, support and oversight across their events.

· Systems, Insights & Reporting: Use CRM and performance data to monitor KPIs, report on progress and inform future activity.

· Collaboration: Work across the Community & Events team and wider organisation to deliver a strong, aligned mass participation programme.

About you 

· Proven experience growing mass participation fundraising, with a track record of increasing income, participation and supporter engagement.

· A track record of increasing income, participation and supporter engagement.

· Experience leading recruitment campaigns and managing supporter journeys.

· Confident managing event budgets, suppliers, CRM systems and performance data.

· A strong communicator who builds great relationships with supporters, colleagues and partners.

· Highly organised, proactive and able to manage multiple priorities.

· Experience leading, supporting or developing others.

· Comfortable balancing strategic thinking with hands-on delivery.

Why Join Us?  

• Full-time role based on a 32-hour working week across four days, with Fridays as a non-working day.
• 8% pension contribution.
• Flexible, hybrid working environment split between home and our London Bridge office. 
• Opportunity to play a key role in a growing fundraising programme.
• Join a supportive, values-driven team built around commitment, integrity, collaboration and innovation.

Occasional evening or weekend working may be required to meet organisational needs, with time off in lieu provided. 

Ready to help us deliver life-changing impact? 
Apply now to join Spinal Research and play a key role in our mission to cure paralysis. 

Spinal Research is a Disability Confident Committed employer and welcomes applications from all candidates. We are committed to making our recruitment process inclusive and accessible and will provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process where required.

A new senior post in the Development Team, the Head of Trusts & Foundations will be responsible for cultivating and growing income from both private and statutory funding bodies, implementing and delivering a new strategy for this vital income stream for the theatre, maintaining and growing our income in exciting, innovative, and strategic ways through high-quality, persuasive applications, alongside stewarding existing relationships to ensure the highest level of care for those already supporting us.

Each year the Development Department is responsible for raising c.25% (£1.4m in 26/27) of the Young Vic’s income to enable great work on our stages and, vitally, in our communities. As Head of Trusts & Foundations, you will play a vital role in securing income towards these projects (currently over £300,000 is generated through Trust & Foundation revenue), driven by a strategic insight into this income stream and the opportunities our work presents. In this role, you will be central to ensuring revenue targets are met each year, elevating our income, in addition creating a pipeline of Capital prospects with a view to the theatre undertaking significant essential works over the next 3 years.

Led by the Development Director, we aim to be a fast-paced team of six, with desire to majorly increase income over the next 3 years led by an ambitious programme of main house and studio shows, the 30th anniversary of our Taking Part programme and further growth across the organisation in our excellent and exciting artistic endeavours.

If you are a passionate and curious fundraiser, excellent grant writer, or looking for the next step in your career and want to work in one of the most exciting London Theatres right now, this role is for you.

Please see the job description for full list of responsibilites. Please go to the Young Vic website via the link on this page for more information on how to apply.

Cure Parkinson’s is looking for an experienced events professional to join our Research Team and take charge of our programme of research workshops and conferences, both for the scientific community and for lay/patient supporters of the charity. This is an exciting time to join the team as we restructure our event offering and grow our programme of activity.

As our Scientific Programmes Manager you will have a degree in life sciences, with experience in neuroscience an advantage. You will have significant experience in planning, co-ordinating and delivering scientific programmes events, meetings and conferences (in-person, hybrid and virtual). You will be adept at liaising with and growing a research community and be skilled at speaking to and writing for both lay and scientific audiences.

The Parliamentary and Public Affairs Adviser and Researcher to the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Archbishop of York manages the public affairs of the Archbishops, including their parliamentary work in the House of Lords and other research needs. As a member of the Faith and Public Life Team, which serves both the Archbishops and the wider Church of England, the role is designed to be the personal connection within this team for the Archbishops, focused specifically on managing the events and interventions they make in the public sphere and Parliament, as well as providing relevant public policy research.

This post sits within Faith and Public Life (FPL), the team that supports the Church of England's work in the public sphere, and specifically supports the work of the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Archbishop of York across a wide range of topics, from their role in Church and state relations, to their witness on issues of social justice. The work is set in the context of the priority areas of the Archbishop's ministry, the Quinquennium goals of the Church of England, and the five marks of mission of the Anglican Communion. Policy and research on these areas are carried out within the Faith and Public Life team, and so the post will link across all the areas of work in FPL.

The Public Affairs Adviser/Researcher to the Archbishops fulfils this role under the supervision of the Director of the Faith and Public Life team, and the Head of Parliamentary Affairs for the Church of England, working closely with colleagues in the Office of the Archbishops at Lambeth and Bishopthorpe Palaces, the Public Policy Team and the Parliamentary Unit of FPL.

As a link between the Archbishops and the Faith and Public Life team, the post-holder will have frequent personal contact with the Archbishops and close working relationships across the team, ensuring, through the Director, that the Archbishops can avail themselves of all the skills and experience held within the team as required. The post-holder's research activities will contribute to, and be coordinated with, wide research activities of FPL's Public Policy team.

As the overall Parliamentary engagement of the Lords Spiritual and Second Church Estates Commissioner is coordinated through the Parliamentary Team within FPL, the post holder will be a full member of the Team and will be line managed, for that part of the work, by the Head of Parliamentary Affairs.

The role involves the briefing and management of events and meetings held by the Archbishops, and the management of their interventions in the House of Lords, including speechwriting. It also involves carrying out research both at the specific request of the Archbishops, and, where possible, assisting the Public Policy team in research that supports the wider Church of England.

Key duties include:

• Liaising with the other members of the Faith and Public Life team to ensure that the Archbishops are appropriately advised on key developments in government policy and legislation
• Assisting the Archbishops, through the Parliamentary Team, in their Parliamentary duties, including research for speeches, questions and meetings, monitoring and updating them on specific issues and events, and liaising with others in Parliament, civil society and the National Church Institutions on his behalf.
• Ensuring that the Archbishops are kept abreast of the wider activities of the Lords Spiritual.
• Organising and staffing meetings in Parliament with the Archbishops.
• Undertaking discrete and ongoing research projects, to assist in the ongoing public affairs work of the Archbishops and the Faith and Public Life team's wider work.
• Assisting in developing briefing material to support the Archbishops' contributions on social and public issues, including drafting speeches, notes and preparatory material for the Archbishops and members of their senior staff as required.
• Providing support for new work areas that enable the Archbishops to address their own priorities in their ministry. This will include work across both the Provinces of Canterbury and York.
• Assisting in the preparation of briefs for official engagements for which the Faith and Public Life team has lead responsibility, including basic research and collation of information.
• Assisting in the maintenance and development of relationships with major charities, NGOs, think tanks and social and public affairs (or equivalent) departments at a national level in other denominations and faiths.
• Assisting in the day-to-day activities of the Faith and Public Life team, such as drafting correspondence on behalf of the Archbishops on relevant matters and responding to the numerous invitations that the Archbishops receive.
• Where appropriate, attending meetings on behalf of the Archbishops and/or the Faith and Public Life team.

The post holder will also assist with day-to-day duties, such as drafting briefings and correspondence, and assisting with the drafting of speeches and written material for use by the Archbishops.

The postholder will be required to have basic DBS clearance.

Essential

Education

• Degree level (or equivalent qualification that includes a significant independent research project).
• Excellent ICT skills.
• Excellent communication skills, verbally and in writing.
• Excellent organisation skills, including time management, diary management etc.
• Research skills and the ability to gather information quickly and accurately.

Skills/Aptitudes

Knowledge / Experience

• Knowledge of Parliament, its function and structures.
• Appreciation of the role of the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Archbishop of York and the Church of England in national life.
• Proven ability in presenting complex data in manageable and informative ways.
• Some experience of organising events (receptions, seminars, small and large meetings etc.)

Personal attributes

• An open and collaborative working style.
• Discretion and judgement in handling confidential or sensitive material.
• Willingness to work creatively within a team with people of differing political and/or theological persuasions.
• Ability to make considered decisions on complex matters, to seek support and advice when necessary and to take responsibility for one's work.

Circumstances

• Willingness and ability to work some unsocial hours when required.

Desirable

Education

• Degree or A Level (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, such as politics, theology etc.
• Database management.
• Ability to discern the impact of policies, legislation etc. on the Church of England, other churches, and other faith communities.

Skills/Aptitudes

Knowledge / Experience

• Ability to draft briefing papers, bulletins and other accessible modes of communication.
• Awareness of Parliamentary processes, political parties, think tanks, lobby groups etc.

• A grasp of the key issues facing the Church of England in its public role today.

Personal attributes

• Ability to manage his/her own work programme with minimal direct management.
• Ability to deliver outcomes to deadlines and to work under pressure.

This role is being offered on a fixed-term contract as maternity cover for a period of up to 12 months.

We are seeking an ambitious and motivated Head of Research to oversee the delivery of our research funding programme. You will ensure our funding is delivered strategically with the greatest impact possible for people affected by MND. You will manage our research team to oversee the development and delivery of effective funding schemes, partnerships and initiatives, whilst ensuring the outputs of our research are monitored and evaluated, to communicate our impact and inform our future activities.

This is a key role in our small, agile organisation that will involve close working across the charity, and the research community. We are looking for someone with strong experience in research and people management, working experience in drug discovery, with excellent communication skills and strong motivation to make a difference for people affected by MND. 

Team Structure: 

You will report to the Director of Research and manage a team of four: three Research Programme Managers and a Research Officer. 

Key responsibilities: 

• Have day-to-day responsibility for distribution of the charity’s research funding, developing detailed annual plans and delivering against time and budget; 

• Be responsible for overseeing governance and compliance for all research funding activities, including adherence to standards set by the Association of Medical Research Charities; 

• Identify opportunities for improvements to grant management systems, processes and documentation and work closely with the research team to ensure they are implemented; 

• Maintain oversight of the research programme budget, working closely with the research and finance teams to plan, monitor and forecast; 

• Oversee the development and implementation of new funding schemes and research initiatives to ensure our funds are delivered for maximum impact and address gaps in the research landscape; 

• Oversee the setup and delivery of large collaborative research programmes including managing relationships with joint funders and other partner organisations; 

• Build and maintain strong relationships with the research community, including members of our review committees and grant holders; 

• Oversee the development and implementation of a robust impact evaluation framework to monitor, report and evaluate the impact of the research we fund and use this information to inform our future funding activities; 

• Ensure the outputs of our research funding activities inform the work of the charity, working with the research and communication teams to create and disseminate compelling and engaging scientific content to engage supporters and drive income; 

• Maintain a strong understanding of the MND research landscape, using those insights to inform our research activities; 

• Develop a high performing team, ensuring team members are supported and developed to contribute to their full potential in the achievement of the charity’s aims; 

• Oversee the delivery of research events e.g. annual meetings to bring together our researchers; 

• Support the development and implementation of future research strategies, working closely with the Director of Research; 

• Represent the Foundation at external meetings including international conferences; 

• Deputise for the Director of Research as required; 

• Undertake other appropriate work as required by the Director of Research. 

Skills and experience required: 

• Educated to postgraduate level, or with similar experience in a relevant biomedical science subject e.g. biochemistry, molecular sciences, neuroscience, pharmacology; 

• Working experience of drug discovery, gained either in the bio-pharmaceutical industry or an academic setting; 

• Significant experience in research management, ideally within a charity or government funding organisation; 

• Proven leadership and people management skills with direct line management experience; 

• The ability to think strategically, navigate uncertainty and adapt to evolving environments; 

• A great communicator, with excellent written and oral skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with a wide range of stakeholders; 

• Motivated to make a real difference for those living with MND and future generations. 

Please note, this role involves occasional overnight stays from home, occasional international travel and occasional attendance at meetings and events during evenings and weekends. Candidates must have the existing right to work in the UK.

About the role

As Head of Research and Evaluation, you will be responsible for the development and delivery of our research and evaluation strategies. This work will help us to understand and provide insight into the challenges and difficulties faced by families with disabled children, the quality of services we provide and the difference our support makes for the families we serve.

You will ensure that the voice of families is at the centre of our research and evaluation approach to help shape existing and new programmes and services, and our policy and public affairs work.

If you join us, you’ll be:

• Leading the continued development and implementation of Family Fund’s research and evaluation strategies.
• Developing and overseeing our evaluation and service quality frameworks, including our Theory of Change outcomes measurement framework.
• Championing the ‘voice of families’, embedding their lived experience at the heart of our research.
• Managing and delivering high-quality research and evaluation projects/initiatives.
• Producing accessible, engaging, and impactful research outputs for a variety of audiences.
• Promoting the use of innovative and participatory research methodologies.
• Presenting and disseminating research findings internally and externally, including at events, conferences, and through publications.
• Developing and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders and representing Family Fund in strategic research partnerships, networks, and advisory forums.
• Commissioning external research and evaluation where appropriate, ensuring quality, value for money.
• Maintaining oversight of the team’s input to government/ funder reporting, ensuring timely and accurate submissions aligned to contractual and organisational requirements.
• Providing visible, hands-on leadership and line management to the Research and Evaluation Team.

About you

For this role you will need to have experience in developing and managing research and evaluation strategies, frameworks, activities and production of subsequent products. You will also need to have experience of working in partnership with other organisations, and of resource and budget management.

To be successful in this role, you will need excellent analytical skills as well as sound knowledge of quantitative and qualitative methodology and best practice through the research cycle. You will need to have good writing skills and an ability to communicate effectively with different audiences. You will also need to have the ability to interpret and present research in an accessible and engaging way.

You will be a self and team motivator with excellent communication skills, and the ability to develop and sustain positive relationships with a range of stakeholders. You will be pro-active and driven to succeed.  

About us

Family Fund is a great place to work for great people. We provide a challenging and rewarding working environment where every staff member can make their mark.

We are a values based organisation and we aim to show our values in all that we do. Read our staff stories here, and see how our staff display our values every day.

We commit to inclusion, equity and diversity and we welcome applications from all parts of the community. Family Fund is a Disability Confident Leader. We will invite to interview all disabled applicants who meet the requirements for the role. If you have a disability, and are happy to let us know, please highlight this in your covering letter. We have also signed the Armed Forces Covenant and we welcome applications from the Armed Forces Community.

How to apply

Please read and download the job description. 

When you’re ready to apply, complete the online application and submit a CV and a covering letter.  Your letter will need to explain what skills and qualities you would bring to the team. 

Please note that the successful candidate will be required to complete pre-employment checks that meet the Baseline Personnel Security Standard.  This includes a right-to-work check, a basic check for unspent criminal convictions, and an employment history verification for the last three years.

We are looking for a dynamic, technically skilled Head of Evaluation to play a senior role in shaping and delivering Youth Futures’ evidence strategy.

You will lead a team of Evidence and Evaluation Managers and oversee a portfolio of complex evaluations, helping us generate credible, useful evidence about what works to support marginalised young people into good work.

• Reporting to the Deputy Director of Evidence and Evaluation, you will be responsible for ensuring high-quality delivery of a portfolio of complex impact evaluations.

• You will have a sound understanding of youth employment and/or skills and design evidence-generating projects in a complex field that includes partners from national and devolved government, the third sector and employers.

• You will manage a team of Evaluation Managers, supporting their development while delivering projects that inform Youth Futures’ strategic goals.

This is an opportunity to shape some of the most important evidence being generated on youth employment in England. The role suits someone who enjoys combining technical evaluation expertise with leadership, judgement and collaboration, and who wants their work to influence real decisions about how services, funders and policymakers support young people.

We currently operate a hybrid model of two-days per week in the office and three-days from home.

Please download our recruitment pack for more information on this opportunity. To apply, please visit our website.

Due to receiving high volumes of interest in our opportunities, this vacancy may close earlier than the advertised deadline. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

Charity People is delighted to be partnering with the British Society for Haematology (BSH) to recruit for their next Head of Commercial & Membership.

The British Society for Haematology (BSH) is a leading UK professional membership organisation dedicated to advancing the study and practice of haematology. Supporting nearly 4,000 members across the UK and internationally, BSH plays a vital role in improving patient care through clinical guidelines, education, research support and professional networking.

This is an exciting time to join the Society. With a new five-year strategy, significant investment in systems and infrastructure, and ambitious plans to strengthen member engagement and diversify income, BSH is seeking an experienced and commercially minded leader to help shape its future.

Working closely with the Director of Corporate & Membership Services, this pivotal role will lead the Society's commercial and membership strategy, driving sustainable growth while ensuring members remain at the heart of everything BSH does. Combining strategic leadership with operational oversight, you'll have the opportunity to influence organisational direction, develop new opportunities for growth, and lead a period of meaningful transformation.

Job Details

Role: Head of Commercial & Membership
Salary: £60,000
Contract: Permanent and Full Time
Location: British Society for Haematology, 100 White Lion Street, London, N1 9PF
Hybrid: Flexible hybrid working
Reports to: Director of Corporate & Membership Services
Interviews: Early October 2026

About the Role

This is a broad and impactful leadership position responsible for shaping the Society's commercial and membership agenda.

Leading a team spanning membership services, data and systems, you will drive member acquisition, engagement and retention, develop innovative membership propositions, oversee the Society's grants portfolio and identify opportunities to diversify revenue in a way that aligns with BSH's charitable mission and values.

You'll also play a key role in embedding data-led decision making, maximising the benefits of a new CRM platform, and supporting the evolution of a more integrated and collaborative operational model.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and delivering the Society's commercial and membership growth strategy
• Identifying and developing sustainable income generation opportunities
• Leading the ongoing evolution of the membership proposition and member experience
• Using insight, analytics and market intelligence to inform strategic decisions
• Driving membership recruitment, engagement and retention activity
• Leading budget planning, financial forecasting and performance monitoring
• Providing strategic oversight of the Society's grants portfolio
• Supporting the optimisation and adoption of Microsoft Dynamics CRM
• Leading and developing a high-performing operational team
• Driving service improvement, organisational change and operational effectiveness
• Building strong relationships with volunteers, committees, senior leaders and external stakeholders
• Working collaboratively across the organisation to deliver strategic objectives

About You

We're looking for a strategic and commercially astute leader who can combine big-picture thinking with strong operational delivery.

You will bring significant experience from a membership, commercial, customer engagement or business development environment and thrive in roles where growth, transformation and stakeholder engagement are key priorities.

You will be a confident leader who enjoys developing people, using data to drive decisions and identifying opportunities to create long-term value for members and the organisation.

You'll bring:

• Senior membership leadership experience, working within a professional membership body or learned society
• A track record of delivering income growth and commercial success
• Experience developing membership propositions
• Strong financial management, budgeting and forecasting experience
• Experience leading organisational change, transformation or service redesign
• Excellent people management and team development skills
• Strong analytical skills and a data-driven approach to decision making
• Outstanding communication and stakeholder management abilities
• Experience influencing and working with senior leaders, volunteers and boards
• A collaborative, innovative and solutions-focused approach

Desirable Experience

• Experience developing or managing grants programmes
• Experience of Microsoft Dynamics or comparable CRM platforms
• Experience operating within a complex stakeholder environment

Why Join BSH?

This is a genuinely exciting opportunity to join an ambitious organisation at a pivotal stage in its development.

You'll have the opportunity to shape strategy, strengthen the membership proposition, develop new commercial opportunities and play a central role in delivering long-term organisational sustainability.

The Society offers a collaborative, supportive and forward-thinking environment where new ideas are welcomed and innovation is encouraged. Working alongside an ambitious senior leadership team, you'll have the freedom and support to make a lasting impact across the organisation.

If you're an experienced Head of Membership, Head of Commercial Development, Membership & Commercial Lead or senior membership professional looking for a role that combines strategy, innovation, transformation and impact, we'd love to hear from you.

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

Role: Head of External Relations
Salary Band: £40,000 - £65,945 gross per annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Location: Woodstock, Oxfordshire. We value in-person collaboration and this role is primarily office based, with flexibility available where appropriate and regular travel across the UK.

About Us

Plunkett UK is a national charity supporting people in rural areas to set up and run successful community-owned businesses. These businesses, from shops and pubs to woodlands and farms, provide vital services, create local jobs, strengthen rural economies and bring people together. We've championed community ownership for over 100 years because it delivers thriving, inclusive and resilient places.

About the Role

We're looking for an ambitious and strategic Head of External Relations to lead delivery of Plunkett UK's Stronger Movement strategic priority, helping to grow our visibility, influence, membership and external relationships.

This is a senior leadership role with a particular focus on strengthening our communications and marketing. You'll help ensure Plunkett's impact, expertise and role within the rural community business movement are better understood by community businesses, funders, policymakers, corporate partners and other key stakeholders. Working closely with the Chief Executive and leading a multidisciplinary team, you'll develop compelling communications, build our profile and ensure our voice is heard where it matters most.

You'll also lead the development of our membership strategy, helping us strengthen and grow the rural community business movement, while providing strategic oversight of our policy, public affairs and research work. The role offers an exciting opportunity to shape how Plunkett is perceived externally, build influential relationships and contribute directly to the organisation's long-term sustainability and impact.

The successful candidate should have the following skills and attributes:

• A strategic communicator – able to turn complex ideas into clear, persuasive and memorable messages.
• Marketing-minded – focused on audiences, positioning, reach and converting awareness into action.
• Creative and proactive – bringing ideas, energy and momentum rather than waiting for direction.
• A strong leader and coach – able to inspire colleagues, build confidence and create ownership.
• Collaborative – comfortable working across teams and through other managers to achieve shared goals.
• Commercially aware – able to connect external relations activity with membership growth, partnerships, fundraising and wider organisational sustainability.
• Politically astute – confident operating with senior stakeholders while maintaining Plunkett’s independence and apolitical stance.
• A relationship builder – able to develop trusted relationships with members, funders, policymakers, partners and suppliers.
• Accountable – committed to Plunkett’s principle of listening first and acting second, using evidence and insight to guide decisions.

Closing date for applications: 9am on Monday 28 September
Interview date: In person w/c 5 October

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are committed to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and our approach goes beyond ‘protected characteristics’ to thinking more broadly about inclusion. Every individual will think and feel differently and we believe that these differences should be embraced, and individual needs taken into account. Additionally, the makeup of the rural communities we work with leads to their own particular diversity and exclusion challenges and opportunities compared to urban areas. Our commitment to EDI, both internally and externally, has been tailored to Plunkett and the communities we serve.

No agencies please.

Registered Charity: 313743

Head of Research and Engagement

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

Letchworth Garden City/ home working (hybrid)

Part time (21 hours a week)

Permanent

Flexible working considered

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

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

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

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

What we can offer

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

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

· Death in Service benefit.

· Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay.

· Sick pay.

· Hybrid working.

· Employee assistance Programme

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

· Learning and development policy to develop all staff.

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

To find out more and apply

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

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

Closing date: 7th September 2026 at 9.00am

First Interviews: 21st September 2026