Head of research and programme policy jobs
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About the Programmes Officer role:
This is your chance to sit at the heart of a pioneering national programme that could reshape how kinship families are supported across England.
As Programmes Officer, you’ll be part of the operational engine behind a complex, high-profile feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) – keeping delivery tight, evidence strong and nothing falling through the cracks. If you thrive on pace, precision and being the person who quietly makes big things happen, this might be the role for you.
Kinship is undertaking a major feasibility RCT of Kinship Connected, a Kinship Navigator Programmes.
This is a complex, multi-partner programme involving funders, independent evaluators, local authorities, internal delivery teams and kinship carers with lived experience.
The Programmes Officer plays a critical role in ensuring the programme runs smoothly day to day. This is a technically demanding, detail-heavy role requiring excellent administration, strong initiative and the ability to anticipate what is needed next.
The Programmes Officer works closely and day-to-day with the Mobilisation and Delivery Project Manager and is a key part of the core delivery spine of the Kinship Navigator feasibility RCT.
The role provides structured operational, administrative and coordination support that enables the Mobilisation and Delivery Project Manager to maintain oversight of timelines, risks, dependencies and delivery quality.
This role requires someone who is comfortable working at pace, highly responsive to direction, and able to anticipate what the Mobilisation and Delivery Project Manager will need next in order to keep the programme running smoothly and evidence-ready.
Please note - we are looking for people who can start immediately ideally. This is due to the nature of the mobilisation and delivery timescales.
Purpose of the role:
To support the Mobilisation and Delivery Project Manager in mobilising and delivering the Kinship Navigator feasibility RCT through exceptional administration, proactive coordination and anticipatory problem-solving.
You will act as a trusted operational support, ensuring systems, data, documentation and local engagement activity are accurate, well organised and up to date, allowing the Mobilisation and Delivery Project Manager to focus on delivery oversight, risk management and external accountability.
Key responsibilities:
Programme delivery and coordination
- Support mobilisation activities across all workstreams, ensuring actions, documentation and timelines are tracked and followed up.
- Maintain delivery plans, action logs and trackers using Asana.
- Support coordination of onboarding activities with local authorities and internal teams.
- Ensure all operational documents are version-controlled, accessible and kept up to date.
- Flag emerging issues, risks or capacity pressures early, with clear evidence.
Local authority engagement and ecosystem mapping
- Coordinate local engagement activity across participating local authorities, including planning, logistics and follow-up for local events.
- Map each local authority’s kinship care ecosystem, including statutory services, voluntary and community organisations, referral pathways and gaps in provision.
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date local authority profiles and ecosystem maps.
- Ensure local intelligence is captured consistently and stored accessibly using agreed systems (e.g. Notion).
Outreach and local marketing support
- Support outreach and engagement activity by helping develop programme-specific marketing and engagement materials, working with the Marketing and Communications team to ensure alignment with Kinship’s brand and messaging.
- Adapt and manage local collateral for each participating local authority, ensuring materials are accurate, up to date and easy to use.
- Maintain clear version control and accessible storage of outreach materials, incorporating feedback from local partners where appropriate.
- Use Canva, Padlet and other agreed tools to adapt and produce local materials for events, Communities of Practice and local authority engagement.
Communities of Practice support
- Provide operational support to the Head of Programmes in coordinating Communities of Practice in each participating local authority.
- Support scheduling, logistics, materials and follow-up actions.
- Capture learning, actions and insights clearly and consistently.
- Support translation of local learning into insight for programme improvement and future scale-up.
Administrative excellence and anticipation
- Deliver a consistently high standard of administration across the programme.
- Maintain clear, structured and accurate records across all systems.
- Anticipate upcoming needs, deadlines and risks, taking initiative to address them early.
- Proactively prepare information, materials and updates without needing to be prompted.
- Act as a reliable operational anchor, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
- Anticipate the information, updates and preparation the Mobilisation and Delivery Project Manager will need to manage delivery effectively.
Data, systems and technical delivery
- Maintain accurate and timely data entry across Salesforce and related systems.
- Support data quality checks and evaluator requirements.
- Use Asana, Salesforce, Notion and Canva confidently and fluently.
- Support documentation, manualisation and knowledge management.
- Ensure systems are used consistently and to a high technical standard.
Coordination, reporting and communications
- Coordinate meetings, agendas, notes and follow-up actions.
- Support preparation of dashboards, updates and reports.
- Ensure information is shared clearly, accurately and on time.
How to apply:
Please apply for the role of Programmes Officer by sending a tailored CV and responding to these 4 questions below in the online application process. Please read the guidance notes in the job pack.
Closing date is 9.30am on Weds 4 March, with interview in person on Tues 10 March 2026.
1. Alignment to Kinship and the role: Why do you want to work for Kinship? And what can you bring to this role (think about the job specification)
2. Programme coordination and administration: Tell us about a time you supported the delivery of a complex programme or project. What were your specific responsibilities, and how did you keep work organised and on track?
3. Initiative: Describe a time when you spotted a potential issue, gap or risk before it became a problem. What did you notice, what action did you take, and what was the outcome?
4. Digital systems and learning new tools: Give an example of a time you had to learn a new digital system or tool quickly to support delivery. What was the context, how did you learn it, and how did you use it in practice?
What we offer you:
- Flexible working - we understand how important it is to balance family and work life.
- 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (1 April to 31 March) pro rata (3 to be taken at Christmas shutdown)
- Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential advice line and counselling)
- Charity Worker Discounts.
Some tips for your application:
Read the guidance notes in the job pack.
Make sure you’ve read the job description and the essential requirements – make sure your application reflects those points in the requirements very clearly.
Tell us why you want to work for Kinship. We’re interested in working with people who share our values. You can read about our values above.
Keep your response clear – use bullets points and short paragraphs if that helps. It will help the recruitment team to focus on your knowledge, skills and experience.
We know people might use AI – however make sure the answers reflect you and who you are and your experience. So many applications are the same because they’re using AI. Make sure you stand out.
We support kinship carers in their homes and communities, giving advice and helping them work through problems to find the best way forward.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Zoe’s Place is seeking a Head of Fundraising to lead our team of fantastic fundraisers at the Middlesbrough Hospice. This position presents an excellent opportunity to join the Charity during a pivotal period in its development.
Zoe’s Place is unique, we are the only baby specific Hospices in the U.K., with hospices located in Middlesbrough and Coventry and strive to promote and maintain our commitment to the local communities in each area.
We’re incredibly proud of our hospices. We provide palliative, respite and end of life care to children aged 0 – 5 years old with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions. With our team of specialist nurses offering 24-7 care and support, we’ve created a safe, caring and fun place, where parents know that their child will receive the best care possible - a home away from home.
The primary purpose of this position is to lead and manage the fundraising team, supporting income generation to successfully meet annual objectives. The individual in this role will oversee the strategic planning and execution of all fundraising initiatives at our Middlesbrough Hospice.
The successful candidate for this position will demonstrate confidence, compassion, ambition, and strong organisational skills, along with the capacity for creative and strategic thinking. They should possess a genuine passion for their work, excel in independent tasks with minimal supervision, and have the ability to influence, motivate, and persuade others effectively.
Due to the nature of the position the post holder may need to work unsocial hours to meet the needs of the role.
Additional benefits:
- 5% salary employer pension contribution p/a.
- 27 days annual leave plus all statutory English bank holidays.
- Hospice closure between Christmas and New Year (annual leave allowance must be used).
- Mileage paid at 45p per mile for business miles.
- Free, on-site parking.
- Employee assistance programme and free counselling for employees and their family members (limited availability).
- Death in service benefit after six months of service.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
ROLE OVERVIEW
You will be a passionate and ambitious leader with the skills, knowledge and experience to drive Membership retention and growth whilst listening to our diverse membership base to understand the areas that are important to them to help us to support their specific needs in their areas.
You will have a dynamic approach with the ability to combine business development, relationship management, stakeholder engagement and operational oversight to ensure that RLSS UK’s membership thrives and aligns with our purpose, mission and vision.
RLSS UK members include Lifesavers, Lifeguards, Licence to Operate Members, Lifesaving Academy members, Honorary Members and Staff.
KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Regular communications and support to branches and lifesaving clubs
- Engage with our members to understand their needs and future opportunities to support their roles in their communities and beyond
- Conduct research and horizon scan for new opportunities for our members
- Conduct research to identify and understand potential new members and opportunities to support growth and meet need
- Conduct research to identify and connect with relevant external stakeholders
- Drive new membership onboarding, ensuring a seamless and effective experience
- Ensure clubs achieve and maintain the appropriate accreditation in line with RLSS UK requirements, policies and processes
- Develop an annual plan of community engagement and roadshows with members and non-members to raise awareness of the work of RLSS UK and our members, to recruit new members and share water safety and drowning prevention education and campaigns
- Ensure clear and concise processes are in place to support membership experience, retention and growth
- Work collaboratively with all RLSS UK teams to raise awareness of our awards and qualifications offer. Collaborate to adapt offerings based on member feedback and emerging industry trends
- Develop tailored marketing materials to support our membership offer and recruit new members.
- Represent RLSS UK in meetings with key stakeholders and to share outcomes and impact to further the society’s purpose, mission and vision.
- Respond to membership queries and provide an excellent service together with timely responses
- Support the implementation, update and oversight of the CRM system to improve member engagement tracking and data management.
- Manage data collection processes, including compliance requirements of membership criteria
- Support the development of thought leadership pieces, contributing to annual reports and ensure high-quality written outputs
- Support the planning, organising and execution of events, including membership forums and conferences ensuring seamless delivery and high attendee satisfaction
- Support the development and refinement of directorate strategies
- Lead and deliver an annual membership survey and analysis to produce meaningful feedback
- Ensure that all membership processes and policies are up to date
- Attend the RLSS UK Sports Committee
- Assist with the implementation of the Lifesaving Sport Strategy, and support the growth in participation in Lifesaving Sport events
- Work closely with the Volunteering Team, particularly in relation to volunteers within RLSS UK branches and clubs
- Actively develop initiatives that broaden the demographic diversity of the RLSS UK membership
OTHER DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead on and support ad hoc projects as required
- Contribute to the successful operation of the charity by undertaking such other tasks as may from time to time be required including all other duties reasonably associated with your role, as directed by the Line Manager.
- Ensure compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 by complying with internal information governance policies and maintaining up-to-date documentation as part of RLSS UK’s compliance programme.
- To demonstrate and uphold the Society’s values and behavioural standards at all times.
- To help create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday actions ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality.
This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of areas of activity and responsibility and will be amended in light of the changing needs of the organisation.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes
- At least 10+ years’ experience in a Membership role
- Significant experience of working at a leadership role level ideally in a membership organisation
- Demonstrable experience of positively interacting, engaging and influencing at all levels including with senior management and external stakeholders
- Demonstrable experience of membership retention and acquisition
- Demonstrable experience of successfully pitching new approaches to prospective members, ideally in a membership organisation
- Demonstrable experience of delivering member-focused solutions within a membership organisation
- Excellent communication, engagement and interpersonal skills
- Excellent presentation, listening and negotiation skills
- Proficiency in CRM software and MS Office applications
- Willingness and ability to travel as required for the role including occasional evenings and weekends
Desirable Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes
- Knowledge and understanding of RLSS UK
- Skilled income generator with experience in achieving income targets, possibly with a previous account management background or experience of a similar B2B membership
- Understanding and experience of the application of safeguarding laws
WHAT RLSS UK CAN OFFER YOU
RLSS UK is a national Charity based in Worcester, and we offer great staff benefits including -
- Annual Leave based on 27 days + Bank Holidays + a discretionary day off for your birthday
- Private Medical Scheme*
- Enhanced Society Sick Pay*
- Eye Care*
- Employee Assistance Programme via Health Assured
- Life Assurance Scheme
- Howdens Sports Benefits/Perks at Work
- Free RLSS UK Membership
- Free tea and coffee when working from HQ, including access to our wonderful Coffee Machine
- Free on-site parking when working from HQ
- Company Events and more!
*Subject to eligibility criteria
YOUR APPLICATION
Please send your CV along with a Cover Letter outlining why you should be our next Head of Membership
Closing Date – 11.59pm, Sunday 1st March 2026
Interview Date – First Round Interviews scheduled for 18/19th March 2026, at our Worcester Head Office (subject to change)
Should you wish to discuss the role, any reasonable adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment process, or have any questions, please get in touch where a member of the RLSS UK HR Department will be happy to help.
RLSS UK are a Disability Confident Committed Employer and an INclusive Worcestershire Leader.
It is our vision to have nations without drowning where everyone can safely enjoy being in, on or near water.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
For homeless people, or those at risk of homelessness, finding employment and housing opportunities can feel like an uphill battle, even more so if they’re affected by physical, mental health or substance misuse issues. Providence Row works with those affected by homelessness and those vulnerably housed in London, offering an integrated service of crisis support, advice and progression programmes. We ensure that people often excluded from mainstream services gain the support and opportunities they need to create a safe, healthy and sustainable life away from the streets. We’re looking for a Head of Marketing to bring energy, creativity and focus to our marketing activity—boosting awareness, growing supporter engagement and helping drive income across fundraising streams. You’ll also play a part in the wider leadership of the organisation as a member of our management team.
The ideal candidate
To be considered for this role, you should be able to:
- Support with the development of the annual marketing strategy to achieve fundraising targets and contractual service delivery requirements.
- Build marketing programs to support specific marketing objectives across different channels and segments in support of the overall marketing plan.
- Lead on the execution of marketing programs from start to finish, driving collaboration with stakeholders and leveraging the right internal processes and support.
- Support with fundraising acquisition activity linked to new prospects and opportunities e.g. individual philanthropists, decision makers in companies, trusts, foundations and local authorities.
- Overall responsibility for brand management and corporate identity.
- Managing Providence Row's digital profile, including maintenance and development of the website, social media, external website listings and links, and Google Ads (etc).
- Overseeing the production of organisational marketing materials. This may involve project managing production of materials or providing oversight to other staff producing materials.
- Improve upon current social media activity with editorial calendar and content for social media networks including Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, blogs and similar platforms.
Research shows some people, especially women and marginalised groups, may hesitate to apply unless they match all the criteria. However, we want to assure everyone that we encourage applications from all individuals, regardless of whether they fulfil every point in the job description. Your unique perspective matters to us – please apply with confidence.
Benefits
- 27 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Pension scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Season ticket loan
- Employee assistance programme
- Access to shopping discounts
- Learning & development opportunities
- Monthly reflective practice
To apply: Please upload your CV with a covering letter detailing how you meet the job specification by 12 March 2026 at 23:30.
Interviews
Please note that we may interview on a rolling basis and therefore encourage early applications.
Providence Row is a charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales; company number 07452798 registered charity number 1140192.
We tackle the root causes of homelessness to help people get off, and stay off, the streets.



We are looking for a dynamic Programme Manager. The post-holder will play a key role in managing specific programme and partnership activities in partnership countries such as the Gambia, Kenya and Sierra Leone as well as project management, monitoring and reporting for our cross-partnerships strategic project on strengthening health systems through strengthened postgraduate medical education of health worker.
The post-holder will also support the design and management of new programmes, working closely with the KGHP Director, Head of Programmes, Partnership Leads, Advisors and with our partners.
This is a fantastic opportunity to shape innovative and impactful health systems strengthening programme, rooted in strong local partnerships.
Based in the UK, this role may require line management support to in-country coordinators/UK based Programme Officer(s).The role will require travel for 1 week at a time to monitor projects abroad to our projects/ partnership countries, totalling no more than three times a year.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The Difference is an education charity, founded to change the story on lost learning. Our vision is to see lost learning falling nationally by 2030 and for schools to be better equipped to support all children, particularly those most vulnerable.
Leading national policy strategy
As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you will work closely with the CEO to develop and execute a four-year influencing plan. Together we’ll aim to shift local and national incentives on inclusion by 2030, which see the national trend of rising suspension and absence begin to fall.
You will hold relationships with the Department for Education and Ofsted and advise on policy priorities ahead, such as:
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Widening the definition of inclusion beyond special needs, recognising the needs of those young people historically or currently interacting with social services
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Reducing perverse incentives for schools to alter their school roll through admissions and pupil exits
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Expectations for multi-academy trusts in capturing and analysing data on lost learning, including how it disproportionately affects different groups
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Improving local alternative provision eco-systems, to improve outcomes for young people
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National standards for inclusive school practice, at a universal and targeted level
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Professional development standards for school inclusion
Developing implementation expertise in the middle tier
In your first six months, you will advise on the internal development of a new programme for middle tier policy actors: multi-academy trust and local authority leaders. You will support the Programme team in its design, to plan strategically for the recruitment of trusts and local authorities, and you will plan the research and influencing work which will seek to share their success nationally.
Building the evidence base
In your second six months, you will work with the CEO to build out our research function. Your influencing plan will include how The Difference can learn from the work across our multi-academy trust, local authority and internal AP pioneer partners over the next four years, to develop influential publications. Research work ahead will include publishing sector-facing publications of The Difference’s own research, carried out by our research lead and associates; alongside managing external contractors and internal colleagues to bid for and deliver aligned research disseminating our ideas.
Raising your voice
This is an exciting opportunity for someone committed to inclusive policy change. The Difference has always punched above our weight in national and sector press reach. In post, you will publish blogs and comment pieces, disseminating our shared ideas. You will be a prominent voice on inclusion.
The Difference is still a small and growing charity. This means that our work is fast-paced, our roles are broad, and there is a culture of being highly autonomous, reactive and flexible, as the needs of the organisation evolve. If this sounds exciting rather than daunting, then this could be the role and team for you!
The Role
This is an exciting time to join The Difference as we increase our impact, reach more schools, and develop our influencing strategy. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs you will:
Design and execute an impactful influencing plan
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Design an influencing plan - Identify via horizon scanning opportunities to influence national policy using open policy windows, or by nudging/creating new ones.
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Execute an influencing plan - Utilise own assets and assets across the organisation, including the Director team, to deliver against the influencing plan.
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Relationship building - Build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders who hold power. This will include policy makers in national governments, local government officials, politicians, other third sector organisations and think tanks.
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Leadership - Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational and own brand.
Build policy capacity and credibility across the organisation
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Policy positions and solutions- Use the concepts, work and experience of The Difference’s programmes to develop new, and refine existing, national policy positions to shift incentives.
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Thought leadership - Be the organisation’s education policy and political expert.
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Generating income - Use own and team’s expertise and credibility to generate income via speaking engagements and consultancy to support the organisation’s financial sustainability.
Person Specification
Essential – We are looking for someone with the following knowledge, experience and skills, though you may be stronger in some areas than others:
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Deep expertise in education policy, particularly on the topic of lost learning and the various policy and political debates, including areas of controversy, surrounding this policy topic.
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Strategic thinker with a proven track record in identifying policy windows and designing activities that lead to meaningful national policy change.
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Excellent relationship builder, who brings with them their own network of influential stakeholders and has a plan for building new relationships. Adept at navigating tricky situations and explaining complex, sometimes difficult, messages.
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Expert convener with a strong knowledge of the education sector, including which schools, trusts and local authorities are influential and experience in bringing a variety of perspectives together to generate consensus.
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Persuasive and clear writing style for publication, including reports, press, blogs and ghost writing for members of the senior leadership team, often based on consensus positions, and designed to communicate key messages for impact.
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Confidence and credibility in communicating nuanced messages in a contentious landscape, in writing, verbally and in public (e.g. on panels), to raise the profile of The Difference.
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Strong project manager who can design systems and processes to keep self, team and other stakeholders on task and on time. Experience of designing programmes of work and monitoring their effectiveness. Flexible project management style that can adapt to a changing environment. Confidence in managing a variety of stakeholders and supporting them to deliver on time.
Desired – You are more likely to be successful in your application if you have one or more of the following:
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Familiarity with The Difference’s programmatic work, theory and practice.
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Lived experience or insight into the school experiences of marginalised young people (e.g. those with experience of the care system, mental ill health, special educational needs, exclusion, and racism).
We know that some people, especially those from marginalised backgrounds, may hesitate to apply unless they meet every listed requirement. If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution, we warmly encourage you to apply.
We actively welcome applications from people whose backgrounds are under-represented in the charity sector, including but not limited to: people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people with experience in the case system, non-graduates and first-in-family graduates.
The Difference exists to improve the life-outcomes of the most vulnerable children by raising the status and expertise of those who educate them.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
L&W is growing our research team and looking for a Head of Research to lead innovative, impactful research and evaluation projects across our focus areas of employment and skills.
This role will expand our capacity to win and deliver evaluation and qualitative research, while strengthening our methodological capability. We’re open-minded about what that means—but we want people who can go beyond standard process evaluations and basic qualitative approaches. You might have experience mapping and evaluating complex system-level change, applying realist evaluation methods, or developing co-design and participatory research projects. You will have have applied these while working alongside the practitioners and policymakers who need these insights to make decisions.
You will join a team that is enthusiastic about learning and improving, and a peer group of experienced qualitative and quantitative research leaders who you will work alongside.
If you have research consultancy experience and want to join a purpose-driven organisation that delivers real impact locally and nationally, we’d love to hear from you. But you might come from a different professional background and still meet our criteria.
Location: Hybrid working: 40-60% in an L&W office. Our offices for this role are currently in Leicester and London, but if you are based elsewhere, please contact us to talk about how the role could work for you.
Team:Research and Development
Salary:£45,650-£59,080 per annum (pro rata), dependent on experience and location
Duration:Permanent
Working hours:0.6 to 1 FTE, with flexible working supported (eg, condensed hours, flexible start and finish times
Main Purpose
The Head of Research: Evaluation and Qualitative Methods is a new post for L&W – as we seek to deepen our capability and expand our capacity.
The post-holder will direct research projects across all of our areas of work, providing specific leadership and expertise in programme and system-level evaluations, and projects mobilising innovative or advanced qualitative methods (such as system mapping, co-design methods, ethnographic methods, creative methods and/or theory-based/realist evaluation).
They will work with the Head of Research: Employment and Better Work to develop the wider qualitative and evaluative skills of the wider research team.
They will also play a key role in leading and writing responding to tenders and working with colleagues to develop pro-active research proposals that fill key evidence gaps and respond to the interests of our funders. They will be a good relationship manager – who can understand what commissioners are interested in, and shape projects to deliver meaningful insights that solve the problems practitioners and policymakers face across employment and skills.
Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership and management
- Line manage members of the R&D team
- Co-lead the qualitative methods group at L&W: supporting the wider research team to develop their skills.
Income
- Write and contribute to reactive and proactive funding proposals across L&W’s areas of work, with a specific focus on process and theory-based evaluations, and proposals using advanced/innovative qualitative methods
- Build relationships with current and potential funders
- Identify and build relationships with research partners
Impact
- Ensure that all projects under their direction generate meaningful insights and recommendations that respond to the real-world concerns and challenges faced by practitioners and policymakers
- Communicate insights clearly and effectively to funders and other stakeholders
Delivery
- Act as Project Director for research and evaluation projects: liaising with funders; shaping research proposals and plans; supporting project managers; leading project meetings; ensuring project margins are delivered effectively; carrying out research directly where appropriate
- Work with External Affairs team to develop appropriate comms and influencing plans for projects under your direction
- Use your research skills and experience to support the wider development of the Learning and Work team
Person Specification
Expericence
Experience of delivering and directing high-quality programmes evaluation and policy-relevant research: shaping research plans, working with funders and delivering meaningful insights -Essential
Experience of responding to research and evaluation tenders and writing proposals. -Essential
Experience of managing, supporting and developing researchers and research managers -Essential
Experience of carrying out research and evaluation in the areas of employment and skills -Desirable
Skills
Advanced qualitative evaluation and research skills, eg. One or more of theory-based evaluation, ethnographic methods, creative/art-based methods, co-design methods, system-level evaluation -Essential
Effective and efficient relationship management -Essential
Clear and direct written communication style -Essential
Knowledge
Knowledge of, and commitment to, L&W’s charitable aims and purpose -Essential
Demonstrable knowledge in the areas of employment and skills policy and practice -Desirable
Learning and Work Institute works across the UK. Our work in Wales is led by a Cardiff based team, but all staff are required to follow the guidance set out in our Welsh language scheme when working in Wales.
This is a challenging, exciting and rewarding role for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and pro-active fundraising professional with a strong background in community engagement and communications. You will continue building the public profile of St Petrock’s and be responsible for generating the income needed to run and further develop our vital and life-saving services.
About St Petrock’s (Exeter) Ltd: St Petrock’s is Exeter’s local, values-led and much-loved homelessness charity, created and supported by the local community to provide vital services for rough sleepers and other people experiencing homelessness, and those at risk of homelessness in Exeter. For more details, please visit our website.
About the role: You will be creative, self-motivated, conscientious and energetic, and have superb interpersonal and communication skills to engage effectively with a wide range of people and build the supporter base of St Petrock’s. You will have strong project and event management skills to lead on major fundraising campaigns and events such as our annual Christmas fundraising video campaign, the Big Night Out sponsored sleepout, and the Big Night In fundraising dinner, along with the imagination and drive to develop a full programme of public fundraising challenges and events. You will also have the knowledge and drive to develop legacy giving and major donor programmes and, supported by the Fundraising and Communications Officer, will be responsible for our social media platforms, website, media relations, and other external communications.
You will be primarily based at the St Petrock’s homelessness centre, with the opportunity for some hybrid working (at home or at local co-working venue). Given the nature of the role, it is essential that you have a suitably insured vehicle and are able to attend meetings and events outside normal working hours to share about St Petrock’s as needed.
Applications:For more detail (including a full Job Description & Person Specification) and how to apply, please download the Job Pack from our website or in the ad attachments.
To complete your application, please send us your CV, covering letter and a disclosure form as per the details in the Job Pack, outlining why you feel you are an ideal candidate for this post.. (These can also be emailed to us following the details in the pack).
Closing date for applications: Monday 16th February 2026 at 9am
Please contact Peter Stephenson, Chief Executive via the contact details in the Job Pack if you would like to have an informal discussion before applying (including a contact phone number if you would like to arrange a call back).
St Petrock’s is fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable adults and children. We use “safer recruitment” practices throughout our recruitment processes, and all successful candidates will be subject to the highest level of DBS check that is legally permissible for their role. Any offer of employment is subject to a satisfactory DBS check. Applicants should understand that a criminal history will not necessarily bar applicants from this role but will be subject to risk assessment.
We exist to stand with & for people experiencing homelessness. We will not give up until everyone in the Exeter area can enjoy a place to call home.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Citizens UK
Citizens UK is the UK’s biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems.
Purpose
The Head of People & Culture ensures that Citizens UK has the people, organisational capacity and enabling culture required to deliver its mission of building people power and strengthening civil society. The role plays a central part in securing a workforce that is capable, motivated and aligned with Citizens UK’s values, enabling the organisation to build strong alliances, support local leadership and achieve lasting social change.
Working as part of the senior leadership team, and under the direction of the Executive Director, Finance & Operations, the role strengthens organisational effectiveness by embedding fair, inclusive and well-governed people practices. Through sound employment frameworks, statutory compliance and a culture that supports engagement, performance and wellbeing, the Head of People & Culture safeguards Citizens UK’s resilience, reputation and ability to deliver impact at scale.
Main Responsibilities
Working as the Head of People & Culture for Citizens UK, reporting to the Executive Director, Finance & Operations, your main responsibilities will include:
People & Culture Strategy
Ensure Citizens UK has the people, capability and organisational shape required to deliver its mission and sustain impact over time.
· Analyse organisational strategy, change priorities and external context to identify their implications for people, capability, structure and ways of working.
· Carry out workforce planning to assess current and future capacity and capability, identifying gaps, risks and realistic options to address them.
· Develop, maintain and refresh the People & Culture strategy so it responds directly to organisational needs and provides clear priorities for action.
· Provide expert people and culture advice to the Executive Leadership Team and Board, informing strategic discussions, trade-offs and decisions.
Talent Management
Develop and implement talent management processes that ensure Citizens UK attracts, retains and sustains the people needed to deliver its work.
· Lead recruitment, selection and onboarding to bring in people who can perform effectively in their roles and are aligned with Citizens UK’s values.
· Develop and maintain retention approaches focused on the key drivers of retention, including meaningful work, effective management, development opportunities, wellbeing, inclusion and fair treatment.
· Identify critical roles and critical talent and put in place practical succession and risk-mitigation plans, including knowledge transfer, handover planning and interim cover where needed.
· Monitor employee experience across the employment lifecycle, using insight from feedback and people data to improve people practices and ways of working.
Performance, Leadership & Capability
Strengthen organisational effectiveness by enabling teams to perform well, grow in capability and contribute consistently to shared goals.
· Maintain and operate performance management processes, including objective setting, regular feedback and reviews, ensuring that staff are clear on expectations and accountable for results.
· Support managers to address performance issues constructively by clarifying expectations, strengthening feedback, building capability and resolving barriers to effective performance.
· Coordinate and deliver learning and development activity that supports managers and staff to build skills, leadership capability and confidence in their roles.
Organisational Culture, Engagement & Wellbeing
Foster a working environment where people feel engaged, supported and able to do their best work together.
· Promote Citizens UK’s values in everyday people practices, supporting managers to translate values into consistent behaviours, decision-making and ways of working.
· Design and operate staff engagement and feedback mechanisms, ensuring staff voice is heard, themes are analysed, and practical actions are taken in response.
· Develop and maintain wellbeing approaches that support psychological safety, healthy workload management, early resolution of concerns and sustainable working practices.
· Support constructive relationships with the Trade Union and enable effective consultation and dialogue on people-related matters.
EDI & Safeguarding
Ensure Citizens UK is equitable, inclusive and safe for all by embedding fairness, care and accountability into how the organisation operates.
· Develop and implement Equity, Diversity and Inclusion priorities, using clear measures to monitor progress, identify gaps and support accountability across the organisation.
· Embed EDI considerations into recruitment, progression, policy development and everyday people decisions, working closely with relevant colleagues to ensure consistency in practice.
· Act as the People & Culture lead for safeguarding, ensuring responsibilities are clear, processes are understood, and concerns are handled appropriately, sensitively and in line with agreed procedures.
· Support managers and leaders to recognise and address inclusion or safeguarding issues early, escalating concerns where required and ensuring appropriate follow-up.
Governance, Risk & Compliance
Ensure Citizens UK has a clear, effective and trusted people governance framework that supports lawful decision-making, fair treatment and organisational confidence.
· Develop, review and maintain People & Culture policies and procedures, ensuring they are legally compliant, values-aligned and understood by managers and staff.
· Provide day-to-day advice and guidance on people-related risk and compliance, identifying emerging issues early and supporting proportionate, lawful responses.
· Manage disciplinary, grievance and other formal employment processes, ensuring fairness, consistency, appropriate documentation and timely resolution.
Systems & HR Operations
Ensure the efficient, reliable and compliant administration of people processes and systems.
· Operate and maintain HR systems, payroll processes and core people administration, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality and compliance with organisational and legal requirements.
· Review and improve people processes to reduce duplication, minimise manual work and improve efficiency, making best use of available technology and automation.
· Maintain accurate and up-to-date people records and data, ensuring information is accessible, secure and fit for reporting, audit and operational needs.
Functional Leadership & Resource Management
Build and manage CUK’s People & Culture function, ensuring that staff and resources contribute effectively to achievement of CUK’s mission.
· Plan, prioritise and sequence People & Culture work to ensure available capacity is focused on the organisation’s most important people risks and priorities.
· Manage the People & Culture budget, including payroll, monitoring spend and applying value-for-money principles in line with organisational policies.
· Manage People & Culture staff and outsourced service providers utilising an engaging leadership style to support effective delivery of expectations.
Personal Specification
(D) Desirable, (E) Essential
Qualifications
· (E) CIPD qualification (Level 7) or equivalent senior-level professional experience in People / HR leadership
· (D) Degree or equivalent qualification in human resources, organisational development, management or a related field
Experience
· (E) Significant experience in a senior People / HR role, ideally within a charity, not-for-profit or values-driven organisation
· (E) Experience of leading and delivering people and culture priorities in complex, mission-led organisations
· (E) Experience of advising Executive and Board-level stakeholders on people, culture, governance and risk matters
· (E) Experience of operating as a senior, hands-on HR generalist, covering strategy, policy, employee relations and operational delivery
· (E) Experience of workforce planning, recruitment, performance management and organisational change
· (D) Experience of working with trade unions or staff representative bodies
Key skills and knowledge
· (E) Strong generalist HR expertise across employment law, compliance, safeguarding, performance management and people governance
· (E) Proven ability to design and implement practical people processes that support performance, inclusion and wellbeing
· (E) Strong coaching capability, with the ability to support managers to address performance, capability and behavioural issues constructively
· (E) Ability to manage complex employee relations matters with judgement, fairness and confidence
· (E) Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present clear advice and recommendations to senior leaders and boards
· (D) Knowledge of HR systems, people data and process improvement to support efficient delivery
Personal qualities & values
· (E) Strong commitment to social justice, inclusion and the values and mission of Citizens UK
· (E) Values-led and relational leadership style, combining empathy, integrity and pragmatism
· (E) Resilient and adaptable, able to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced and evolving environment
· (E) Comfortable working within an accountable team culture, open to feedback, reflective practice and continuous improvement
· (D) Willingness to work occasional evenings or weekends, and to travel when required to support organisational priorities
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Title - Managing Director of Research Programmes (UK)
Contract – Permanent
Hours - 35 hours per week
Salary – Circa £75,000 per annum (negotiable)
Location - Coram Campus, Bloomsbury, with occasional travel and some working from home as agreed
About Coram
Coram, which is the oldest children’s charity, is a group of specialist organisations; we help more than 1 million children and young people from infancy to independence, creating positive change that lasts a lifetime.
Established by Royal Charter in 1739, as the Foundling Hospital, and operating from its distinctive 3.5 acres headquarters in the heart of London, Coram has built a position of insight, influence, and research by working closely with other organisations and other sectors, universities and government, professionals, and families. We have ambitious plans for the future, to be the UK’s leading recognised research organisation, dedicated to improving life chances as the Institute for Children.
About the role
This role works directly with the Chief Executive as a member of the Senior Management Team in achievement of this vision and strategy; it will lead the advancement of the Coram Institute for Children as a UKRI recognised independent research organisation (IRO), drive research capacity and capability, champion and deliver internal and external evaluations, advance Coram’s sector credibility and relationships, and inform and contribute to the group’s reach, relevance and results.
This senior position leads a large team of mixed methods researchers and data analysts and comprises an important opportunity for a credible research leader and experienced charity senior manager who is dynamic and multi-skilled with an entrepreneurial approach to lead the only IRO in the children and young people’s sector.
The successful candidate will have a strong business focus and commitment to translating research findings into policy and practice and direct experience of securing research council funding, or funding from sources such as What Works Centres, local and central government or Trusts and Foundations.
You will be able to work individually, in a team and across the organisation. Strong critical thinking ability, partnership building skills and knowledge, experience and commitment to improving lives of children are essential.
To apply for this role, please visit the Coram website to complete an application. Please note CV’S will not be accepted.
Closing date: 18th February 2026 at 12 noon
Interview date: 26th & 27th February 2026
Coram is an equal opportunities employer and we believe a diverse workforce enables us to improve the services to the children and families we help. We are genuinely committed to encouraging candidates from all sections of the community we seek to support. This includes those from global majority ethnic backgrounds, those that identify as LGBQT+, those with disabilities, those with lived experience of care, those with neuro-diversity, and those from other groups who are underrepresented at Coram.
If applicants feel comfortable, we would encourage them to draw on lived experience as well as professional experience in their personal statement as part of their application.
We are committed to the safeguarding of children and where appropriate will require the successful applicant to undertake a check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Registered Charity No. 312278.
Coram changes lives, laws and systems to create better chances for children, now and forever.
Head of Supporter Insight & Experience
Job reference: REQ000936
£56,297pa + excellent benefits
Woking, Surrey GU21 4LL / Hybrid Working
Hybrid working: Minimum 40% in person collaboration per month
About the role
We’re excited to be recruiting a Head of Supporter Insight and Experience to lead WWF-UK’s understanding of its supporters and ensure that insight is consistently used to shape strategy, journeys and decisions across the organisation.
In this role, you’ll lead and shape WWF UK’s supporter insight and experience, owning the frameworks, intelligence and evidence that guide organisational strategy, supporter journeys, investment decisions, product development and innovation. You’ll build and develop a cross organisational insight capability in a new Supporter Experience Directorate - integrating qualitative research, quantitative analysis, audience segmentation, digital analytics and journey intelligence.
You will play a key change leadership role, embedding insight led ways of working across Fundraising, Communications, Digital and Technology, and championing a shared understanding of supporter needs and behaviours. A core part of the role is driving digital experience improvement and working collaboratively across teams to inform system development, UX design and experience innovation.
Skills and experience
You’ll bring the skills and experience needed to succeed in this role, including:
• Proven experience leading organisation-wide qualitative, quantitative and digital insight programmes
• Strong understanding of supporter or customer behaviours, needs and motivations, with proven experience in supporter segmentation and audience frameworks, as well as journey analysis, mapping and reporting.
• Experience of leading innovation pipelines, including developing business cases for improvements or investment and managing initiatives, from concept to delivery.
• Strategic insight leadership and communication skills, able to turn complex evidence into clear organisational direction, priorities and recommendations.
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders and embed insight led ways of working across fundraising, communications, technology and product teams.
• Strong people leadership skills, with experience building, leading and supporting insight, research or innovation teams.
• Proven ability to deliver insight and experience improvements in a fundraising, membership, charity or purpose led context (B2C and/or B2B).
• Degree level qualification, or equivalent experience, demonstrating strong capability in insight, data, digital, marketing or analytical disciplines.
What we offer
We believe in rewarding our team with more than just a salary. Here’s what you can expect:
· Annual leave starting at 26 days a year, rising one day each year to 31 days plus bank holidays
· Flexible working options, to support your work life balance
· 7.5% employer contribution to pension, rising to 10% with employee contribution
· Learning and development opportunities to help you grow
· Regular wellbeing initiatives to support your health and happiness.
This is a UK based contract, and you are required to have the Right to Work in the UK. Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer sponsorship and any offer of employment will be subject to evidence of your Right to Work in the UK.
This role is hybrid with a minimum 40% of your contracted hours spent at our beautiful UK head office, the Living Planet Centre in Woking, Surrey, where you’ll hot desk among trees and gardens.
About WWF-UK
We’re a global conservation charity with millions of supporters and hundreds of projects around the world.
At WWF-UK, we’re bringing our world back to life. Protecting what’s left isn’t enough. We’re racing to restore nature and prevent catastrophic climate change. And it’s a race we can win with everyone’s help.
We’re courageous, passionate, and driven by science. For more than 60 years we’ve been at the forefront of global efforts to protect wildlife and the natural world. We work with integrity, collaboration and deep respect for those we partner with.
How to apply
Click the link to apply via our website.
You’ll be asked to complete an application form and upload your CV and a supporting statement that tells us why you’ll be a great addition to WWF-UK.
Application closing date : 03/03/2026
Our Diversity Promise to You
At the heart of our mission is a simple truth: the planet needs everyone. That means you - in all your uniqueness, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or how you choose to express yourself.
We don’t do stereotypes. We work together with purpose, driven by passion and enhanced by respect, courage, and integrity. We pull together from all walks of life to fight for a better future, and we want you to feel supported every step of the way.
We’re proud to be a Disability Confident employer and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities.
So, if there’s anything we can do to make your application or interview experience more comfortable or accessible, just give our Talent Acquisition Team a shout via our website.
Safeguarding Commitment
Just as we celebrate diversity in all its forms, we are equally dedicated to creating a safe environment for every person we work with or encounter.
Our commitment extends to children, adults at risk, and individuals experiencing any form of vulnerability, whether temporary or permanent.
We proudly stand behind CAPSEAH (Common Approach to Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Sexual Abuse and Sexual Harassment) and put this commitment into action through clear policies, thorough training, and recruitment checks tailored to each role, which may include external vetting.
If you ever have a concern, however big or small, know that there are confidential channels ready to support you at WWF-UK. We promise to respond promptly and with care, because protecting every individual is at the heart of everything we do.
Policy Advisor (Climate)
Job reference: REQ000950
£37,581pa + excellent benefits
Woking, Surrey GU21 4LL / Hybrid Working
Hybrid working: Minimum 40% in person collaboration per month
About the role
We’re excited to be recruiting a Policy Advisor (Climate) to support WWF-UK’s work on developing ambitious climate policy and accelerating the transition to a net zero, nature-positive economy.
Working within the Climate team in the Policy Directorate, this role will help shape and develop policy solutions that support the deployment of low-carbon infrastructure and technologies in ways that benefit people and nature. A key focus of the role will be supporting a major corporate partnership with an energy company, alongside contributing to wider climate policy development and influencing work across the UK.
You’ll undertake research, develop policy proposals and briefings, and support engagement with government, business and civil society stakeholders. The role offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of evidence, advocacy and delivery, helping position WWF-UK as a trusted voice in shaping the future of climate policy.
Skills and experience
You’ll bring the following skills and experience to succeed in this role:
Essential
• Experience or strong knowledge of climate policy, with interest in areas such as energy, home decarbonisation, finance, agriculture, land use or biodiversity
• Understanding of how public policy is developed and influenced within political and governmental contexts
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to translate evidence into clear policy proposals
• Experience producing policy briefings, reports or technical content for varied audiences
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex issues clearly
• Ability to build constructive working relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities within a fast-moving policy environment
Desirable
• Experience working across UK nations or understanding of devolved policy contexts
• Experience commissioning or managing research projects or external consultants
• Knowledge of the wider climate, economics or environmental policy landscape
What we offer
We believe in rewarding our team with more than just a salary. Here’s what you can expect:
· Annual leave starting at 26 days a year, rising one day each year to 31 days plus bank holidays
· Flexible working options, to support your work life balance
· 7.5% employer contribution to pension, rising to 10% with employee contribution
· Learning and development opportunities to help you grow
· Regular wellbeing initiatives to support your health and happiness.
This is a UK based contract, and you are required to have the Right to Work in the UK. Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer sponsorship and any offer of employment will be subject to evidence of your Right to Work in the UK.
This role is hybrid with a minimum 40% of your contracted hours spent at our beautiful UK head office, the Living Planet Centre in Woking, Surrey, where you’ll hot desk among trees and gardens.
About WWF-UK
We’re a global conservation charity with millions of supporters and hundreds of projects around the world.
At WWF-UK, we’re bringing our world back to life. Protecting what’s left isn’t enough. We’re racing to restore nature and prevent catastrophic climate change. And it’s a race we can win with everyone’s help.
We’re courageous, passionate, and driven by science. For more than 60 years we’ve been at the forefront of global efforts to protect wildlife and the natural world. We work with integrity, collaboration and deep respect for those we partner with.
How to apply
Click the link to apply via our website.
You’ll be asked to complete an application form and upload your CV and a supporting statement that tells us why you’ll be a great addition to WWF-UK.
Application closing date : 04/03/2026
Our Diversity Promise to You
At the heart of our mission is a simple truth: the planet needs everyone. That means you - in all your uniqueness, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or how you choose to express yourself.
We don’t do stereotypes. We work together with purpose, driven by passion and enhanced by respect, courage, and integrity. We pull together from all walks of life to fight for a better future, and we want you to feel supported every step of the way.
We’re proud to be a Disability Confident employer and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities.
So, if there’s anything we can do to make your application or interview experience more comfortable or accessible, just give our Talent Acquisition Team a shout via our website.
Safeguarding Commitment
Just as we celebrate diversity in all its forms, we are equally dedicated to creating a safe environment for every person we work with or encounter.
Our commitment extends to children, adults at risk, and individuals experiencing any form of vulnerability, whether temporary or permanent.
We proudly stand behind CAPSEAH (Common Approach to Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Sexual Abuse and Sexual Harassment) and put this commitment into action through clear policies, thorough training, and recruitment checks tailored to each role, which may include external vetting.
If you ever have a concern, however big or small, know that there are confidential channels ready to support you at WWF-UK. We promise to respond promptly and with care, because protecting every individual is at the heart of everything we do.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
This role is responsible for working collaboratively with the Head of Fundraising to develop and deliver our annual portfolio of events (including RDA UK organised events, securing places in third party events and supporting in aid of events), introducing new local fundraising opportunities, and building relationships within community groups.
- To work collaboratively with the Head of Fundraising to deliver RDA UK’s community and events fundraising programme, ensuring income targets are achieved or exceeded.
- To explore, develop, and manage an RDA UK flagship event.
- To oversee and develop our challenge events programme, including open and bespoke overseas challenges.
- To build strong community partnerships and supporter networks, maximising engagement across the UK.
- To provide excellent supporter stewardship, ensuring every fundraiser feels valued and motivated.
RDA is committed to creating a workplace where everyone belongs. We welcome applications from talented candidates of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences, and celebrate the diversity that makes our team stronger.
At RDA, we harness the power of horses to enrich lives, supporting disabled people through innovative programmes that promote health


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Senior Policy Advisor (Climate)
Job reference: REQ000942
£43,851pa + excellent benefits
Woking, Surrey GU21 4LL / Hybrid Working
Hybrid working: Minimum 40% in person collaboration per month
About the role
We’re excited to be recruiting a Senior Policy Advisor to help shape WWF-UK’s climate policy work and support the transition to a net zero, nature-positive economy.
Working within the Policy Directorate’s Climate team, this role sits at the intersection of science, advocacy and political delivery. You’ll design and develop ambitious policy solutions that can scale in the UK and influence action globally, helping ensure climate action works for people, nature and the wider economy.
You’ll contribute to developing policy frameworks that support the net zero transition across areas such as governance, power, heat, home decarbonisation, agriculture and land use. The role involves building strong evidence, engaging with government, business and civil society stakeholders, and positioning WWF-UK as a trusted, authoritative voice during a period of evolving political debate on climate action.
This is an opportunity to combine deep policy thinking with practical influencing, working collaboratively across WWF-UK teams and the global network to turn ideas into meaningful change.
Skills and experience
You’ll bring the following skills and experience to succeed in this role:
Essential
• Strong experience in public policy development, with a focus on climate, net zero or environmental policy
• In-depth knowledge of climate policy and at least one related area such as energy, home decarbonisation, finance, agriculture, land use or biodiversity
• Strong understanding of how policy is shaped and influenced within political and governmental contexts
• Experience building and influencing relationships with senior stakeholders across government, business or civil society
• Proven ability to use research and evidence to develop practical policy solutions and recommendations
• Excellent analytical thinking and clear, persuasive written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage complex programmes of work and collaborate across multiple teams and partners
• Experience producing policy briefings, reports or technical content for varied audiences
Desirable
• Experience working across UK nations or in an international policy context
• Experience contributing to fundraising proposals or partnership development
• Budget, grant or project management experience
What we offer
We believe in rewarding our team with more than just a salary. Here’s what you can expect:
· Annual leave starting at 26 days a year, rising one day each year to 31 days plus bank holidays
· Flexible working options, to support your work life balance
· 7.5% employer contribution to pension, rising to 10% with employee contribution
· Learning and development opportunities to help you grow
· Regular wellbeing initiatives to support your health and happiness.
This is a UK based contract, and you are required to have the Right to Work in the UK. Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer sponsorship and any offer of employment will be subject to evidence of your Right to Work in the UK.
This role is hybrid with a minimum 40% of your contracted hours spent at our beautiful UK head office, the Living Planet Centre in Woking, Surrey, where you’ll hot desk among trees and gardens.
About WWF-UK
We’re a global conservation charity with millions of supporters and hundreds of projects around the world.
At WWF-UK, we’re bringing our world back to life. Protecting what’s left isn’t enough. We’re racing to restore nature and prevent catastrophic climate change. And it’s a race we can win with everyone’s help.
We’re courageous, passionate, and driven by science. For more than 60 years we’ve been at the forefront of global efforts to protect wildlife and the natural world. We work with integrity, collaboration and deep respect for those we partner with.
How to apply
Click the link to apply via our website.
You’ll be asked to complete an application form and upload your CV and a supporting statement that tells us why you’ll be a great addition to WWF-UK.
Application closing date : 22/02/2026
Our Diversity Promise to You
At the heart of our mission is a simple truth: the planet needs everyone. That means you - in all your uniqueness, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or how you choose to express yourself.
We don’t do stereotypes. We work together with purpose, driven by passion and enhanced by respect, courage, and integrity. We pull together from all walks of life to fight for a better future, and we want you to feel supported every step of the way.
We’re proud to be a Disability Confident employer and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities.
So, if there’s anything we can do to make your application or interview experience more comfortable or accessible, just give our Talent Acquisition Team a shout via our website.
Safeguarding Commitment
Just as we celebrate diversity in all its forms, we are equally dedicated to creating a safe environment for every person we work with or encounter.
Our commitment extends to children, adults at risk, and individuals experiencing any form of vulnerability, whether temporary or permanent.
We proudly stand behind CAPSEAH (Common Approach to Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Sexual Abuse and Sexual Harassment) and put this commitment into action through clear policies, thorough training, and recruitment checks tailored to each role, which may include external vetting.
If you ever have a concern, however big or small, know that there are confidential channels ready to support you at WWF-UK. We promise to respond promptly and with care, because protecting every individual is at the heart of everything we do.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Head of Communications to come and join our team providing maternity cover until January 2027 during a period of organisational growth.
Location – This role is mainly working from home with one day a week in our London office (usually a Monday). Occasional travel to our other programme sites (currently Stoke-On-Trent, Redcar, Middlesbrough and Scotland) will also be required.
Salary – Circa £60,000
Employment Type – Fixed term until January 2027, 35 hours per week
Team – Communications team
About you
We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following:
· Strong experience in strategic communications, ideally within a start-up, growing, complex or place-based organisation.
· Experience setting up and embedding communications functions, including establishing foundations and building approaches as priorities evolve.
· Significant experience in people leadership, including developing others and building a strong, collaborative working culture.
· Experience influencing senior stakeholders and working with an SLT, including supporting government policy, media, funding and influence related activity.
· Strong content, storytelling and copywriting expertise and the ability to communicate a clear organisational narrative.
About the role
The responsibilities of this role include:
· Overseeing and ensuring the delivery of national and local communications strategies and plans, including national content activity and priority local campaigns and stakeholder engagement.
· Leading the set-up and embedding of new place-based communications functions.
· Leading and overseeing the planning and delivery of Thrive at Five’s 2026 Impact Report, communications relating to evaluations and learning, and our fifth-year anniversary, working closely with evaluation and fundraising colleagues.
· Maintaining and strengthening relationships with key national and local stakeholders in line with our communications strategy and goals.
· Providing professional and operational leadership and coaching to the wider Communications team to ensure they deliver to a high standard.
About us
Thrive at Five is a national charity focused on giving every child the best possible start in life. We know the foundations for life and learning are built in the earliest years, from pregnancy to five. By working alongside families, communities and local partners, we help build stronger, more connected support for parents, so more children get what they need to thrive and reach a good level of development by age five.
Thrive at Five is a relatively young organisation but with an already strong national and political profile, having been called out in Parliament for our ways of working in Stoke-on-Trent and invited to be interviewed at the 2025 Civil Society Summit by the Secretary of State for Education. We have grown rapidly in our first four years, with a growing team of nearly 40 across the country. 2026 will be a year of further growth and milestones for the charity as we celebrate our fifth-year anniversary and expand into our third and fourth regions. This will involve recruiting for a new teams, establishing our programmes and beginning to co-design and implement our work in partnership with communities.
About our benefits
· Pension contributions – We will contribute 3% and you can contribute 5% towards your pension through NEST.
· Hybrid working with one anchor day a week in our central London office near to Victoria train station, coach station and underground.
· 25 annual leave days per year plus bank holidays.
· In addition to your laptop and phone provided by us, you can also receive a £100 contribution towards your home-working set up.
· £100 contribution towards your professional body membership
Please note that as this role is subject to a successful Basic Level Disclosure check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). If you have any unspent convictions, but wish to apply for this role, please advise us in your application. The successful candidate will also need to provide satisfactory references and current right to work in the UK.
To apply for this role, please submit your cover letter and CV by following the Apply Now button. Applications will be reviewed and shortlisted as they are received. While the closing date is midnight on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, we may close the vacancy earlier if a suitable candidate is identified.


