35 Head of safeguarding and HR compliance jobs

The Head of Operations will provide strategic leadership and oversight of HEY Smile Foundation’s governance arrangements, organisational systems and infrastructure, human resources and culture, and buildings and facilities. The role will ensure Smile has the people, processes, controls and resources to deliver its purpose reliably and respond confidently to future opportunities. Working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team, the postholder will translate organisational strategy into a clear operational plan, strengthen accountability and lead improvements across the charity. They will provide the CEO and trustees with timely information, assurance and practical recommendations on operational performance, capacity and risk.

This is a senior leadership role combining strategic oversight with the ability to secure delivery through colleagues, managers and specialist providers. The postholder will establish clear responsibilities, standards and reporting, intervening directly where necessary and building capacity so that routine delivery does not depend on the CEO.

Working as part of the operations team, the you will help maintain the systems, processes and practical foundations 
that enable the organisation to function effectively. This includes supporting people operations and HR administration, 
leading on governance and advisory meeting administration, acting as the first point of contact for IT queries, and helping 
FEA’s events run smoothly.

Acting as a trusted point of support for colleagues, you will help create a responsive and well-organised 
working environment where staff, trustees and members feel enabled to do their best work. The role requires exceptional 
organisation, sound judgement and a genuine pride in quality. By ensuring that the practical aspects of the organisation 
run reliably and well, you will help create the conditions that allow the Fair Education Alliance to deliver its 
mission and drive progress towards a fairer education system.

Safeguarding sits at the heart of life at The Perse School. We are seeking an exceptional leader to join our senior team as Assistant Head (Safeguarding), taking strategic responsibility for safeguarding and child protection across our 3 Cambridge schools and serving as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for the Upper School.

This is a significant leadership opportunity for an experienced safeguarding professional who can combine expertise, sound judgement and compassion to ensure every pupil feels safe, supported and able to flourish. The successful candidate will lead safeguarding strategy and practice, oversee complex child protection matters, provide guidance and training to colleagues, and work closely with pupils, families, staff, governors and external agencies.

We welcome applications from experienced teachers, educational leaders and safeguarding professionals from related sectors. While experience in education is highly desirable, we are equally interested in candidates who have developed substantial safeguarding expertise through social care, local authority safeguarding services, the LADO function or other child protection settings.

The Perse enjoys a prestigious reputation and values a mixed approach to teaching and learning. We aim to respect tradition and innovation, industry and fun, and academic and personal growth. All teachers and pupils are required to demonstrate all-round excellence and contribute to the academic, pastoral and extra-curricular life of the school. 

At The Perse School, we value the well-being of all staff and offer a supportive environment that balances professional ambitions with personal growth, opportunity and work-life balance.

Further details including how to apply can be obtained from our website: Work with us - The Perse School Cambridge

Closing date: Friday 18th September at 9.00am. Interviews will be a two stage process; preliminary online on Wednesday 23rd September followed by in person for successful candidates in the week commencing 28th September.

The School actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

Safer Recruitment

The Perse School recognises that an important element in safeguarding our pupils is a robust recruitment process that incorporates measures to deter, reject or identify people who might abuse children, or who are otherwise unsuited to work with them. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post including: references from previous employers, a Disclosure and Barring Service check at the enhanced level, as well as eligibility to work in the UK (in compliance with UK immigration regulations).All work carried out at the School on a regular basis amounts to regulated activity.  This role is also exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone's responsibility. The School is committed to acting in the best interests of the child so as to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people. The School requires everyone who comes into contact with children and their families to share this commitment. Interviews will be conducted in person, and they will explore candidates’ suitability to work with children.

Stella Maris UK is looking for an experienced and confident Senior HR Manager to drive and deliver our people-focused HR strategy that supports employee wellbeing and organisational growth.

About the Role

Reporting to the Director of Resources, this is a senior leadership role with responsibility for promoting the vision, mission and values of the organisation. 

You’ll oversee all aspects of human resources, including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, learning and development, and policy implementation, and will provide leadership and support to the HR team. 

You’ll also work collaboratively across the organisation to foster a positive, inclusive and high-performing workplace culture. 

About You

We’re looking for a confident leader with experience in human resources leadership, employee relations, organisational development, workforce planning, and people management, as well as experience in leading teams and building strong relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

You’ll;

• Have CIPD or equivalent professional HR qualification.

• Be educated to degree level or equivalent experience.

• Have experience managing HR functions within a charity, not-for-profit, public sector, or mission-driven organisation.

• Have experience of advising senior leaders on people matters.

• Have strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.

• Have strategic thinking and organisational development capability.

• Have strong communication, coaching, and influencing abilities

We are looking for an exceptional Head of Group Human Resources & Facilities to lead our HR and Facilities function, ensuring our people, workplaces and practices enable us to deliver our mission effectively.

Salary: £49,173 per annum

Contract: Permanent

Hours: 35 hours per week

Location: York (Hybrid working available)

Closing date: 14 September 2026

Interview date(s): 22 September (First stage on MS Teams) and 6 October (Second stage in-person)

Family Fund’s mission is to make life better for families raising disabled and seriously ill children. We are committed to helping families achieve the best possible outcomes, while creating an inclusive, supportive and high-performing workplace for our colleagues.

About the role

This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for developing and delivering HR strategies, policies and operational plans that support Family Fund Group’s strategic objectives.

Reporting to the Group Director of HR & Facilities, this role leads a small dedicated HR and Facilities team, providing a comprehensive, high-quality service across the Group, which employs around 200 staff.  Working closely with senior leaders, the role is at the heart of ensuring that Family Find is a great place to work for great people.

The role will oversee all aspects of the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, learning and development, reward and benefits, organisational change and workforce planning, while ensuring compliance with employment legislation and HR best practice.

Candidates should be confident managing budgets and resources as well as being confident to use HR systems and data to support decision-making and continuous improvement as well as manage organisational risk.

The role also has responsibility for leading the organisation’s approach to health and safety, wellbeing and facilities management, ensuring safe, effective and cost-efficient working environments.

About you

We are seeking an experienced HR professional with a strong generalist background and a proven ability to lead people and deliver high-quality HR services. The successful candidate will have extensive experience advising managers on employment matters, implementing HR initiatives, managing employee relations, and leading teams to achieve excellent outcomes.

The role requires strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills, together with a sound understanding of UK employment legislation and HR best practice. You will be adept at building positive relationships with staff, managers, and stakeholders at all levels.

Applicants should hold a minimum of CIPD Level 5 qualification or equivalent. Experience within the voluntary or not for profit sector would be advantageous but is not essential.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a collaborative and inclusive leadership style, a commitment to fostering positive workplace cultures, and a passion for equity, diversity, inclusion, fairness, and safeguarding. They will align closely with Family Fund’s values and be dedicated to supporting and developing people across the organisation.

Why join Family Fund?

This is an opportunity to play a key leadership role in an organisation that makes a genuine difference to families across the UK. You’ll work alongside passionate colleagues in a collaborative environment where people, wellbeing and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do.

If you’re an experienced HR professional looking for a role where you can shape strategy, lead change and make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us build a workplace where everyone can thrive.

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 on the Family Fund website, 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

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.

For more information, please read the job description.

Lead safeguarding. Shape culture. Enable safer churches.

The Diocese of London is seeking an exceptional safeguarding leader to serve as our first Director of Safeguarding.

This is a pivotal leadership role at the heart of the Church of England’s largest and most diverse diocese, driving a culture that is preventative, accountable, transparent and focused on learning and improvement.

The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for safeguarding across the Diocese, oversee governance and assurance, lead a skilled safeguarding team, and champion the voices of victims and survivors.

We are looking for a credible and experienced professional with significant safeguarding expertise, strong professional judgement, and a passion for enabling safer churches.

Join us in shaping the future of safeguarding in London. We would be delighted to hear from you.

The postholder will have an enhanced DBS check.

The closing date for applications is Sunday, 20 September at 5pm. The selection day will take place in-person on Thursday, 22 October. 

Please refer to the Candidate Information pack for the full details of the Role, Responsibilities and Person Specification.

Human Resources Director

Permanent | Hybrid Working (50% London Office Attendance - non contractual) | London

Hays are delighted to be working exclusively with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) to appoint a Human Resources Director.
This is a rare opportunity to join a globally recognised, purpose-led organisation at a pivotal point in its evolution. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, the HR Director will provide visible leadership across a London-based international HR and Learning & Development function, supporting a workforce operating across around 24 countries.

The role offers the opportunity to build on the significant progress already made within the HR function and help shape and deliver its next stage of maturity. You will play a critical role in ensuring the organisation continues to attract, develop and retain talented people while providing expert advice on complex people matters across multiple international jurisdictions.

The Opportunity

This is a genuinely hands-on HR Director role. Working closely with the Chief Operating Officer, Executive Committee and senior stakeholders worldwide, you will lead a developing HR function through its next phase of growth and continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Providing strategic and operational leadership across the HR and Learning & Development function
• Leading HR operations across the full employee lifecycle including recruitment, reward, employee relations, compliance, systems and people data
• Acting as a trusted adviser to the Chief Operating Officer and senior leadership team on complex and sensitive people matters
• Leading and developing an HR team and supporting continued capability growth
• Reviewing, maintaining and improving HR policies, processes and governance frameworks across multiple countries
• Ensuring compliance with employment legislation and HR best practice across multiple international jurisdictions
• Driving consistency and best practice across international HR operations
• Leading annual reward and pay review processes
• Overseeing HR systems, reporting and people analytics to support business decision-making
• Working closely with leaders to strengthen management capability and performance across the organisation

About You

We are keen to speak with credible and experienced HR leaders who can demonstrate:

• Significant experience leading a broad HR function at Head of HR, HR Director or equivalent level with experience leading and developing HR teams
• Proven recent experience operating across multiple countries and international employment environments
• Strong expertise across employee relations, recruitment, reward, policy, compliance and HR operations
• Experience in supporting senior leaders and advising on complex people matters
• Experience improving systems and governance frameworks
• Strong commercial judgement and the ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Chartered CIPD membership (or equivalent senior HR qualification)
• Degree-level education or equivalent senior professional experience

Whilst sector background is flexible, candidates must demonstrate a genuine interest in working within a mission-led organisation and be motivated by the opportunity to contribute to the MSC's environmental and sustainability goals.

Why Join MSC?

The MSC's vision is for the world's oceans to be teeming with life, and seafood supplies safeguarded for this and future generations. Today, the impacts of overfishing and climate change pose an even greater threat to the ocean and fish stocks. Through our internationally recognised certification and ecolabeling program, well-managed sustainable fisheries are recognised and rewarded throughout the seafood supply chain. Over 700 fisheries around the world, representing 19% of the annual global marine catch, are now engaged in the MSC program and MSC certified and labelled seafood products are now available in over 66 countries. Through partnerships and collective endeavour, we are on a mission to end overfishing.

This is an opportunity to join an organisation with real purpose while leading and developing a high-performing international HR function during an exciting period of growth and change.

Additional Information

• Permanent position
• Hybrid working model, which is non-contractual (minimum 50% office attendance)
• London-based role
• 25 days annual leave
• Enhanced pension arrangements
• Life assurance
• International exposure and stakeholder engagement
• Significant opportunity to influence organisational culture, capability and people strategy

If you are an experienced HR leader with international experience, strong operational capability and a passion for building high-performing organisations, we would love to hear from you.

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Reporting to the Director of Ministry and People, the Head of People will lead the delivery of an inclusive People and HR service that supports the Diocese in fulfilling its mission through effective people practices. 

Working closely with the Head of Vocations and Formation, the Head of People will provide professional leadership across employment, organisational development and workforce support for diocesan employees, while ensuring effective and appropriate advice and support is given to clergy, volunteers and parishes, recognising the differing legal, canonical and governance arrangements that apply across each setting.

Working collaboratively with ministry colleagues, Bishops and Archdeacons as well as senior leaders within the Diocesan Board of Finance, the successful candiate will strongly contribute to the wellbeing, development and effectiveness of all those who serve the Diocese of Salisbury.

You will be someone who:

• Has significant experience in a senior HR or People Management role.
• Is confident working as a trusted advisor to senior leadership.
• Has a thorough knowledge of Employment Law and HR best practice.
• Has experience managing complex ER matters and can support workforce planning.
• Has the ability to align with and support the mission, ministry and values of the Church of England.

If you are interested in working in a supportive environment and can bring your HR/People-based worked experience to the Diocese, we would love to hear from you. You can find more information on our website, as well as details of how to apply.

Application Deadline: 21 September 2026

Department: Business Services

Location: London/Brussels

Compensation: London £76,431 / year and Brussels €7,066 / month

Description

If you are a strategic HR leader who thrives in complex international environments, we would love to hear from you. We are looking for an exceptional Head of People & Culture to partner with senior leaders, lead a global People & Culture function, and help build an organisation capable of delivering lasting environmental impact. This is a unique opportunity to influence strategy, culture and organisational effectiveness at a critical leadership level.

If this opportunity excites you, we would encourage you to submit your application early and don't wait until the deadline. While the vacancy will remain open, we will begin reviewing candidates throughout the advertising period.

Important dates to note:

• Deadline to submit an initial application: 21st of September
• If your profile passes initial screening, you will be asked to submit additional information in the form of three additional questions.
• The deadline to submit your answers is the 24th of September
• If we do not receive a response to these questions by the deadline we will assume you are no longer interested in the role.
• Interviews will take place from the week beginning 28 September 2026

Please also review the "Our Hiring Process" section at the bottom of this advert to learn more about the stages involved for this specific role.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a trusted adviser to the Global Leadership Team and, with the People Business Partners, other senior leaders, providing expert guidance on People-related organisational design implications, workforce planning, leadership effectiveness, and change.
• Provide functional leadership and coordination across the People team, ensuring high standards, alignment and delivery while retaining clear accountability for the overall effectiveness and performance of the global People function
• Lead any People-related organisational development initiatives to support growth, international expansion, and evolving organisational models
• Contribute to the development and leadership of ClientEarth’s EDI and Decolonisation strategy, ensuring alignment with global best practice and organisational values and measurable progress in systems, decision-making, and leadership practice

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

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• MCIPD-qualified HR professional, or equivalent senior-level experience in HR, organisational development, employee relations, or employment law (essential)
• Extensive experience leading or shaping a global People / HR function in a complex organisation and operating as a trusted adviser to senior leaders
• Experience working and negotiating with trade unions and other employee representative bodies
• Experience leading People-related organisational change projects in multi-country and matrixed organisations

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

Job Benefits

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

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

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

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

Join Our Leadership Team: Head of Service Delivery, Quality and Standards

Location: Eyre Street, Sheffield (with flexible/hybrid working)
Hours: 36.25 per week, Monday to Friday (flexible between 8am–6pm)
Salary: 42,000- 45,000 based on experience
Contract: Permanent

Are you a passionate, innovative leader looking for your next challenge in the charity or social care sector? Do you want to make a real and lasting impact in the lives of older people across Sheffield?

At Age UK Sheffield, we’re not just a service provider—we’re an organisation that puts older people at the heart of everything we do. We are now recruiting for a strategic, forward-thinking Head of Service Delivery, Quality and Standards to join our Senior Management Team and lead the evolution of our services at a time when older people need us more than ever.

About the Role

This is a rare opportunity to join an innovative, award-winning charity that prides itself on delivering excellence. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive and working closely with our Board of Trustees, you will have overall responsibility for the quality, delivery, development and strategic leadership of a diverse portfolio of services, including:

· Independent Living Coordination

· Hospital Discharge

· Dementia Support

· Information & Advice

· Paid-for Home Support Services

You will provide leadership to managers and teams working across multiple locations and community settings, ensuring services are safe, effective, person-centred and financially sustainable. You will lead on safeguarding, health and safety, quality assurance and continuous improvement, helping us maintain high standards and achieve excellent outcomes for older people.

About You

You will be an experienced senior leader with a background in social care, health or the voluntary sector. You will have a proven track record of managing multiple services through others, balancing strategic leadership with strong operational oversight.

You will be comfortable leading managers and geographically dispersed teams, ensuring consistent standards, strong performance and a positive culture across a complex service portfolio.

You're equally at ease presenting performance reports and strategic proposals to trustees as you are engaging with frontline staff, volunteers and older people using our services.

You'll Bring

· Significant experience of leading multiple frontline services, ideally across different locations or community settings.

· Experience of managing and developing managers, team leaders and remote or dispersed teams.

· A strong understanding of safeguarding, governance, quality assurance, health and safety and risk management.

· Experience of external audits and working within quality frameworks, with a good understanding of regulatory standards continuous improvement.

· Strong operational and contract management skills, including performance monitoring, KPI reporting and service development.

· Excellent leadership and relationship-building skills, with the ability to inspire, support and develop others.

· Strong IT and data literacy, using information and insight to drive decision-making and improve outcomes.

· A collaborative, flexible and values-driven approach to leadership.

Why Work With Us?

- You’ll be part of a visionary, supportive, and diverse organisation committed to making Sheffield a great place to grow older.
- We offer flexible working hours and hybrid working options following a comprehensive induction.
- 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
- Age UK Sheffield is proud to be a Mindful Employer and a Disability Confident Employer. We warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and Black and ethnic minority communities.

Ready to Lead Change?

If you’re excited by the opportunity to shape and deliver outstanding services that make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply by: 9am on Monday 14th September. Interviews will be held during week commencing Monday 21st September

Join us. Lead with heart. Deliver with purpose

Could you use your legal skills to support mission, providing in house legal support and leading a project focusing on international land issues?

• Fixed Term 1 year / Part-time 17.5 – 21 hours per week

• Hybrid working – approximately one day a week at CMS House, Oxford.

• Starting salary £50K per annum Full-time Equivalentdepending on experience with a generous pension contribution: up to 10 per cent employer contribution on annual salary

• CMS offers 36 days of annual leave pro rata (including bank holidays) as well as enhanced paid sickness, maternity, paternity and adoption leave.

• CMS supports the mental wellbeing of its employees and offers a generous rewards and wellbeing package

We welcome applications from everyone. We particularly welcome applications from individuals from minority groups as they are currently underrepresented within our organisation at this level. All appointments are made on merit of skill, experience and potential as set out in the job description and person specification.

Your role

As Head of Legal, you will provide legal expertise and support across the organisation, ensuring compliance with UK charity law and regulatory requirements. You will work closely with trustees, senior leadership, and operational teams to mitigate risk and enable the charity to achieve its objectives efficiently and legally.

The organisation you’ll be joining

Church Mission Society is comprised of people who are passionate about mission and fired up about helping people follow Jesus. For over 200 years CMS has been at the forefront of global mission, living out the gospel of Jesus, seeing lives changed and communities transformed. If you join CMS, you will find an organisation that has been reinvigorated with a fresh vision to make disciples of Jesus among people at the edges, both in the UK and around the world.

What you’ll need to succeed

The successful candidate will be a qualified solicitor or barrister in England and Wales with an understanding of commercial property and employment law.  It would also be helpful to have had charity sector experience (and possibly experience with overseas property issues).   

It is also a requirement for this post holder to be a committed and practising Christian as well as committed to CMS’s values and aims.

Further details can be found in the job description and person specification available to download on the CMS website.

Our commitment to you

Our core values of being pioneering, relational, faithful and evangelistic are integral to everything we do, and we work hard to ensure that every member of staff is valued, supported and encouraged to continually learn and develop their skills.

We are committed to the safeguarding and protection of the people we serve, our partners, our volunteers, and our staff. We believe that every child or adult we come into contact with has the right to be protected from all forms of harm and abuse. Our recruitment and selection processes are in line with our Safeguarding Policy

Closing date

We must get your application by midnight on Sunday 27th September 2026

Interviews are planned to be held on Wednesday 7th October 2026 at CMS House, Oxford.

To apply

Please send your application form and CV via our bebsite or by post to HR Team, Church Mission Society, Watlington Road, Oxford OX4 6BZ. CVs will only be considered when sent with a completed application form, which is available to download from our website.

Candidates for all UK roles must already be eligible to work in the UK, with a valid visa and work permit if required.

As a member of the Inter-agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme, CMS has committed to systematically check with previous employers from the last five years for any ‘SEAH’ (Sexual Exploitation, Abuse or Harassment) issues relating to all potential new hires.

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.

We are looking for a person with an understanding of working with a values-driven team of people, in the charity or not-for-profit sector.

The person appointed will have an appreciation of the aims and values of the Sustain alliance and be excited by supporting our organisation in effective ways of working, whilst freeing up senior leaders and spokespeople to undertake influencing, communication, partnership development and fundraising activities.

The Operations and People Manager will help Sustain function effectively as an organisation and be a great place to work. This is a senior, trusted role working closely with the Chief Executive, Senior Leadership Team (SLT), Senior Management Team (SMT), line managers and Trustees to strengthen our people, operational and governance systems.

The post-holder will lead practical improvements in HR, people processes, line management standards, staff development, onboarding, offboarding, organisational culture and compliance. They will combine sound judgement, strong systems thinking and a people-centred approach, helping Sustain keep processes clear, proportionate and well-managed, while supporting colleagues to focus on effective delivery.

The mission of the Sustain alliance is to catalyse systemic change in the UK’s food and farming system – securing a healthy, fair, and sustainable future for all people, nature and a stable climate. Working in collaboration with our alliance members and others, we run a range of advocacy work, projects and campaigns to achieve permanent changes in policy and practice; and to engage more people, organisations and communities in being food system change-makers.

As with all senior roles at Sustain, the person appointed to this role will work mainly at the Sustain office in London during their probationary period, and thereafter at least half of working hours at our office, whilst benefiting from the flexibility offered to all colleagues. This is part of senior role-modelling of the creativity, support, engagement and well-being benefits that in-person working cultivates between colleagues. This will be managed in coordination with other senior colleagues to enable good in-person coverage and connectivity across the week and across common holiday periods.

Role and responsibilities
•Strengthen Sustain’s people, HR, operational and governance systems so that the charity works effectively, fairly and well.
•Help Sustain be a great place to work, with clear standards, supportive line management, good staff development and a positive, inclusive culture.
•Lead on high standards and practical improvements in recruitment; induction; probation; appraisals; people and HR processes; line management skills, knowledge and tools; staff consultation; and organisational policies and practices.
•Support senior leaders, line managers and Trustees with clear advice, reliable processes, good records and proportionate and effective risk management.
•Develop and maintain systems that are simple, useful and appropriate for Sustain’s size, values, resources and legal responsibilities
 

Tasks and responsibilities:

Organisational operations and systems
•Lead on managing and developing the charity’s operational activities.
•Ensure that senior management actions that support operational effectiveness are managed and carried out in a timely way, via an accessible and accountable process.
•Lead and/or participate in a range of internal groups that support operational effectiveness.
•Support the Chief Executive, Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and other relevant staff with governance matters, including:
oReporting to the Council of Trustees on operational and people matters;
oPerformance of the ‘Company Secretary’ role on behalf of Trustees;
oTrustee recruitment, induction and management of necessary information and processes;
oAppropriate compliance with the Charity Governance Code.
•Working with the Chief Executive and Chair of the Council of Trustees, help prepare and coordinate the agendas and the running of the quarterly board meeting and occasional (at least annual) staff and Trustees strategy day, as well as the Sustain AGM, Annual Report and Trustee elections (annual), as one of the key links in communication with and between Sustain’s Council of Trustees.
•Lead on development and implementation of one or more relevant chapter of Sustain’s Organisation Development Plan (ODP).

•Support the planning and running of events, working with Sustain team leads, partners, venues and contributors.
•Work with the Head of Finance, Head of Digital and Design and external suppliers to help ensure office, IT and operational arrangements are appropriate and support effective working.
 

People, HR and employment processes
•Lead development and implementation of HR processes, practical actions and transactions, using external HR and/or legal advisors for authoritative support and advice where needed.
•Lead on full lifecycle support for Sustain staff including:
oEffective and inclusive recruitment, onboarding and offboarding – implementing Sustain’s commitment to recruitment for diversity – working with SMT, finance and admin leads;
oCreating, grading, reviewing and updating job descriptions, working with line managers and the senior leadership team;
oManaging employment contract variances; funding precarity; end-of-contract and risk-of-redundancy processes, working with senior managers, line managers, affected employees and HR/legal advisors;
oCreating or supporting a range of opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds and identities to get involved.
•Act as first point of contact for HR queries, taking ownership of policies and process, culture and employee relations; informed by HR advice, consultation and annual staff survey, including overseeing an action plan to embed areas of good practice, and to pursue improvements in an accountable way.
•Regular review of job descriptions, grades, progression and staff benefits within Sustain to ensure we remain competitive within the sector.
•Provide or commission sector benchmarking data, analysis and recommendations to inform decision-making, using a methodology agreed with Trustee oversight, on matters such financial and non-financial staff benefits.
•Maintain and improve the Staff Handbook, Recruitment Handbook, and related policies, guidance, advice and other support.

Line management standards, learning and staff development
•Lead the development and implementation of clear, practical standards for line management at Sustain, working with SLT, SMT, the Line Managers Forum and external advisers where appropriate.

•Develop and oversee implementation of key processes such as annual appraisals, annual planning and objective-setting, and a suitable performance management process.
•Help ensure objective-setting, personal development and progression conversations are undertaken routinely, and that these and performance management are handled consistently, fairly and in line with Sustain’s values and legal responsibilities.
•Support line managers to run effective 1-to-1s, probation reviews, appraisals, workload conversations, development conversations, and difficult conversations where needed.
•Ensure suitable and sufficient ongoing learning opportunities and training for the staff team and the Line Managers group, driving the charity’s approach to consistent standards, personal development and career progression.
•Maintain and improve the Line Managers Handbook and related tools, templates and guidance.
Culture, EDI, staff voice and union liaison
•Manage and develop Sustain as a great place to work, with a working culture and practices that support effective delivery, as well as health, wellbeing and personal development.
•Serve as an active member of the Diversity Group, to implement and innovate on equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism, and to gather data to measure and report on impact and progress.
•Working with the CEO, provide a route for requests and suggestions from the Health and Wellbeing Group to be properly considered and actioned as appropriate.
•Develop and support ways for staff voices to be heard and influence policies, practices and organisational culture, and for staff to be able to raise ideas and concerns confidently and see actions taken as a result.
•Support structured staff consultation and union liaison processes, helping ensure they are well-organised, transparent, well-documented and conducted in line with Sustain's policies and recognition arrangements.

Governance, compliance and risk management
•Develop and update key resources, contributing to useful reference sets such as the Staff Handbook, Recruitment Handbook and Line Managers Handbook, including overseeing production, maintenance and updating of all policies, procedures and guidance relevant to operations and people.
•Ensure Sustain complies with all employment, health and safety, data protection, charity legislation and statutory guidance including filing at Companies House and maintaining organisational records with the Charity Commission, and managing the risk register and internal policies tracker.

•Ensure adherence to health, safety, diversity and safeguarding procedures in the office, in hybrid working and for events and activities; undertaking comprehensive risk assessments for events and activities; and ensuring appropriate risk mitigation, staff communication and updates to guidance.
Other
•Potential for this role to line-manage one or more member of staff, volunteer, paid intern and/or external consultant, offering 1-to-1 support for objective-setting, work delivery, coaching and pastoral matters.
•Any other reasonable tasks and duties, agreed with the Chief Executive, consistent with the nature and level of the role.

Person specification / What we’re looking for:

Qualifications and requirements
•Significant experience operating at a senior level in a people, HR, operations or an organisation development role, including responsibility for organisational systems and staff management. [E]
•Experience of working in a charity, not-for-profit, campaigning, membership, alliance or other values-led organisation. [D]
•Demonstrable commitment to the operations and people role through a relevant qualification, training or other continuing professional development (CPD). [D]
 

Experience
•Significant experience leading organisational, people or operational improvement and advising senior decision-makers. [E]
•Developing skills and learning plans, and commissioning and/or delivering learning opportunities including training, workshops, facilitation and/or coaching. [E]
•Managing employment contracts to improve employee information and job security, especially where funding is short-term and project-based, with insights into good practice. [D]
•Delivering training and/or guidance to improve people-related functions to be delivered by line managers. [D]
•Working in a unionised organisation. [D]
Skills, abilities and attitudes
•Confidence and experience to take a leadership role on operational and people matters, working with the Chief Executive, Trustees and senior managers. [E]
•Strong problem-solving skills, and negotiation skills and the ability and confidence to provide insightful and constructive proposals and advice. [E]
•Excellent project management skills. [E]
•Aptitude for managing financial information and budgets. [D]
•Ability to communicate clearly and sensitively in writing and verbally, including on complex, confidential or contentious matters. [E]
•Proficiency with computer software and records management. [E]

Knowledge
•Knowledge and experience of end-to-end management of staff team members and their development: recruitment, induction and probation; learning experiences, skills and training; personal and career development; performance management; support for health and wellbeing; and HR processes. [E]
•Sound knowledge of UK HR and employment rules and statutory guidance, and their implementation in good practice. [E]
•Knowledge of IT, online and practical systems for improving processes and efficiency. [D]
 

Attitudes and personal qualities
•Highly organised and self-motivated, with the ability to work flexibly, independently and meet deadlines; whilst having the judgment to know when and who to consult before proceeding. [E]
•High integrity, with a professional, diplomatic, values-led, solutions-focused and collaborative approach to working with individuals and a wider team. [E]
•Commitment and ability to work at our office in East London regularly. [E]
•Demonstrable commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and racial justice. [E]
•Commitment to the mission and values of Sustain, and an interest in healthy and sustainable food and farming. [D]

Application closing date: Monday 14 September at 5pm (BST)

First stage interviews will take place (via Zoom) on: Wednesday 23 September 2026

Second stage interviews to take place in-person (London office) on: Wednesday 30 September 2026

Early applications are encouraged.

For any queries, please contact our recruitment team.

We’re looking for an inspiring Head of Community Delivery to join our London-based team. This is a senior leadership role within our Delivery Team, where you’ll play a key part in shaping and delivering AllChild’s place-based programmes, ensuring they create meaningful and lasting impact across your region.

Across the UK, millions of children and young people are facing complex social and emotional challenges. AllChild works within local communities and wider support systems to identify and support children and young people most at risk of poor social, emotional and academic outcomes. Through our two-year Impact Programme, we help build a joined-up network of support around each child and family, working in partnership with schools, local services and community organisations.

For further information, please view the Job Pack.

To apply, please visit our website via the Apply button.

Closing date: 25 September 2026.

We recognise that candidates may use AI tools to support research and check grammar. However, we ask that all supporting statements and application responses reflect your own thoughts and experiences. Over-reliance on AI may limit our ability to assess your individual skills, critical thinking, and personal approach, which are important parts of our selection process.