Head of services jobs

About the role

We’re recruiting for a Head of Retail Operations for our Northern Division. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of driving success within six regions, leading a team of dedicated Regional Managers across 85 shops with around 270 colleagues.

This isn’t just about overseeing operations – it’s about owning them. You’ll have the freedom and autonomy to shape the strategy for your division, making key decisions on everything from financial performance to people development. You’ll build a values-led, inclusive culture – one where our people feel appreciated, respected and supported.

As part of the senior leadership team, you’ll play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of Mind Retail, bringing fresh ideas and driving initiatives that make a real impact. And because every pound we make in our shops helps support Mind’s mission, the work you do will have a lasting and meaningful impact.

This is a role for an ambitious leader – someone ready to take ownership, think strategically and inspire a team to do great things.

We’re looking for someone who:

· Is a natural leader, passionate about creating high-performing teams and building an inclusive culture

· Has senior-level experience leading multi-site, large-scale retail operations and knows how to drive commercial success

· Understands retail finances inside out, from managing P&L’s, to spotting opportunities for growth

· Thinks strategically, but isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and make things happen

· Embodies our values and behaviours

Ready to make a difference?

Join Mind Retail. Join the fight for mental health.

Due to our commitment to work/life balance, you must live within reasonable travelling distance of the division. The geography of the division covers the North West, Yorkshire & Humber, North East, East & West Midlands and North Wales.

Mind Retail reserve the right to close the vacancy to applications earlier, should we receive a high volume of strong candidates. Therefore we encourage an early application.

About our benefits

As Head of Operations, you’ll receive:

· A competitive salary of £59,753 per year

· A company car

· A strong commitment to work-life balance with a working pattern that supports this, with the occasional weekend working

· 25 days’ paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays

· Development workshops & courses, to help build your career

· Comprehensive, personalised induction programmes, tailored to your role when you join us

· A huge variety of additional qualifications & development programmes for anyone looking to grow their skills

· Family friendly policies & enhanced pay

· A competitive pension scheme & life assurance, available to all our employees

· 25% staff discount in all Mind shops

· Access to exclusive discounts at over 160 retailers through our employee savings app

· Employee Assistance Programme

· Cycle to Work Scheme

· Interest free season ticket loan

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating an income of around £25 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we’re going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve. There’s never been a more exciting time to join us.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

We value the power of diversity. We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We are creating an inclusive working environment where everyone is appreciated for being authentic and bringing their whole selves to work.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working with us to share this commitment. In line with our Safer Recruitment policy, the successful candidate will be required to provide references and will be expected to undertake an enhanced DBS check with a check of the Children's Barred List and/or ‘Work with Adults' workforce check based on their role and responsibilities. A DBS check is a process to check someone's criminal record (if they have any). A Barred List is a list of people who are barred from working with children. To enable you to predetermine what might be disclosed in your DBS check, please use this disclosure calculator.

Mind Retail is an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applicants from all communities. We are committed to the fair treatment of our staff, potential staff and volunteers, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, responsibilities for dependants, age, physical/mental disability or offending background.

This job vacancy is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. 

More details

For more information and a full person specification, please check on the Job Description button below.

Contract start date: Provisionally 1 November 2025

In this key role you will own and lead an innovative membership strategy to achieve ambitious population and income targets by accelerating member acquisition, delivering compelling member experiences, driving immediate engagement, creating long-term loyalty and running membership operations.

You will advocate for the importance of membership at Kew working with colleagues across the organisation. You will lead the membership response to our new brand framework and CRM programme to increase engagement and accelerate support of Kew as a charity whilst embedding our proposition of ‘creating a thriving planet, powered by plants and fungi.’

You will bring extensive experience of leading a significant membership or loyalty scheme. Experienced in turning audience understanding and data in actionable plans to achieve growth, you will be analytical, innovative, creative and commercially driven.

Strong project management skills with good negotiation and persuasion are essential as you work with others to deliver membership experiences.

Interviews are due to take place on 9 & 10 October.

This role is based at Kew with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.

About Us

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.

We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.

Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi. 

Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interviewing disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

No agencies please.

Job purpose:
Alongside the Head of Finance, the Management Accountant will provide business partnering by build relationships with SMT, managers and their teams, providing them with financial insights, reporting and analysis that enable them to make informed decisions. The post holder will champion and drive automation, enabling the effective and efficient running of the finance function.

The post holder will be a part-qualified/newly qualified accounting professional with experience of working in a not-for-profit setting. The role involves use of our accounting system IRIS Financials (formally PS Financials), ensuring the accurate and timely reporting of financial information; compliance with both internal financial procedures and external regulations; and recording and monitoring of financial data.

This role is based at our head office in 21 Portland Place, London. We offer a hybrid working arrangement with a minimum of 2 days in the office per week.

Key responsibilities:

Financial management and reporting

• Prepare monthly management accounts and cash flows for the Head of Finance to review.
• Prepare year-end schedules and other supporting documents for submission to external auditors as set out in annual audit plan and support the Head of Finance with responding to auditor queries.
• Maintain the Association’s accounting systems including updating the chart of accounts, period maintenance and user access.
• Support the Head of Finance with maintaining bank mandates for the Association and Foundation.
• Prepare monthly payroll journal and pension upload for the Head of Finance to approve.
• Prepare quarterly VAT return for approval by the Head of Finance and reconciliation of VAT control accounts within IRIS Financials.
• Reconcile statements received investment managers and record investment income and gains/losses into IRIS Financials accounts.
• Ensure assets are created and disposed within IRIS Financials fixed asset register and depreciated in accordance with the Association’s capitalisation and accounting policies.
   

Operational management

• Provide high quality and effective financial reporting, support and assistance to the Head of Finance and other senior managers in relation to budgets, forecasts and any financial modelling as required.
• Under the guidance of the Head of Finance, monitor and review financial systems and procedures and recommend, devise and implement more effective and efficient procedures.
• Maintain and improve your own competencies through continuous professional development.
• Abide by organisational policies, codes of conduct and practice as described in the Staff Handbook.
• Support and promote the Association’s commitment to diversity and equality of opportunity in the workplace.

 This job description is intended to reflect the main duties and responsibilities of the post and is not an exhaustive list of duties. The post holder may be required to undertake other duties which are commensurate with the role.

Person specification

Skills, knowledge and experience

Essential

• Part-qualified / newly qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA/CIPFA).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to explain financial information to non-finance managers.
• Excellent working knowledge and understanding of computerised accounting systems. Strong Microsoft Office skills.
• Experienced in the use of membership databases and reconciling financial data held within database to accounting system.
• Experienced in leading or participating in the production of regular management accounts and other financial performance reports.
• Working knowledge of charity accounting including principles of restricted fund accounting.
• Highly organised, able to work swiftly but with strong attention to detail and a focus on accuracy.
• Strong customer service skills and demonstrable ability to work with a diverse range of people.
• An appetite for problem-solving and making improvements and enhancing existing ways of working.

Desirable

• Experience of working within the membership or not-for profit sector.
• Experienced in the of IRIS Financials
• Experience of supervising and or coaching an individual
• Experience of processing and/or reviewing payroll
   

Head of Communications
Salary: £51,780.00 per annum
Location: SIA House, Oldbrook, Milton Keynes MK6 (Some hybrid working possible)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week

About Us

The Spinal Injuries Association is committed to a singular vision: a fulfilled life for everyone affected by spinal cord injury.

Everyone has a right to live a fulfilled life and that means the life they choose, a life that has the same opportunities as everyone else. We are the expert guiding voice for life after spinal cord injury.

About the Role

Strengthen the voice, influence and impact of thousands of people affected by spinal cord injury

We are looking for a dynamic individual to take on a pivotal leadership role at a transformative moment in our journey.

Over the past four years, our communications and campaigns team has grown in reach, impact and ambition. With a strong media presence, a network of influential ambassadors and a fully implemented CRM system, we've built a powerful platform for change. Our outgoing Head of Communications and Campaigns has played a vital role in this success and now we are ready to take the next step.

As we move toward our Strategy 2030, we are evolving. The Campaigns team has matured into a distinct force and we are now creating the foundations for a separate Public Affairs function. This transition opens up an exciting opportunity for a new Head of Communications to lead a focused, high-performing team and shape the voice of the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) for the future.

We represent a diverse community of over 21,000 members, but we know that more than 100,000 people across the UK are living with spinal cord injury. We want to reach them all. Communications will be central to how we equitably mobilise our members, engage our partners and overcome barriers of poverty, geography and services. To help deliver our promise: a fulfilled life for everyone affected by spinal cord injury.

If you're a strategic thinker, a compelling communicator and a collaborative leader ready to make a lasting impact - we'd love to hear from you.

Benefits

• Annual leave: 28 days per holiday year plus bank holidays, increasing to 30 days after two years of service (pro-rated for part time employees)
• Access to Group pension scheme (6% employer contribution)
• Access to Group life assurance scheme
• Access to Healthcare cash plan
• Access to discounted gym membership
• Access to Employee assistance programme (EAP)
• Employee volunteer days
• Free car parking at Milton Keynes, Head Office
• Investing in our people - all members of staff are encouraged to discuss their development plans and aspirations with their line manager. A budget is available for talent development.

Thank you for your interest in joining our special charity!

This post will play a critical role in achieving our ambitions. We hope that the role inspires you and we look forward to receiving your application.

Closing date: 29 September 2025, 9am
Interview dates: Thursday 9 & 10 October 2025 at SIA House, Milton Keynes

Interested?

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

At SIA, we value diversity. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment as we believe diversity fosters a more innovative, creative, and caring culture.

We are striving to create a culture that fully represents all the communities we serve. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, age, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, family or parental status, or disability status.

Disabled candidates who meet the standard job criteria will be offered a guaranteed interview.

No agencies please.

• Do you want to bring about a culture shift in the way services are delivered to young women and girls?

• Can you lead the expansion of Abianda’s training programmes, ensuring they contribute to systems change for young women affected by criminal exploitation and violence? 

• Are you a visionary and collaborative leader who can drive growth and income for a unique and thriving charity?​

Abianda is a London-based charity that works with young women and girls affected by criminal exploitation and violence, and the professionals who support them. We exist to ensure young women are no longer hidden in our communities and can live free from harm and abuse. We aim to bring about a culture shift in how services are delivered to young women and girls, so that they can access support that works for them when they need it. 

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Partnerships and Development to lead and drive our growth, ensuring the long-term sustainability and expansion of our work.  

The role will involve combining strategic leadership and operational delivery, with a particular focus on expanding Abianda’s training programmes across the UK, increasing unrestricted income, strengthening partnerships and overseeing impact measurement.  

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), you will work collaboratively with SLT colleagues to drive Abianda’s strategic objectives, ensuring that all our programmes are delivered effectively across our remit. This role requires dynamic strategic and operational leadership, as well as a commitment to driving the development of best practices within the sector.

This is an exciting time to join the Abianda team. With an ambitious strategy in place, and after securing social investment to support the growth of our training programmes, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation's future. You will ensure that our training, consultancy, and income-generating activities are aligned with our mission to support young women affected by criminal exploitation and violence. You will develop and implement strategies to scale our programmes to a national audience, drive income generation through training and fundraising, and enhance our external partnerships to increase Abianda’s reach and influence.​

Job details:

• Salary: £45,000 per annum, plus pension (reviewed annually)

• Full-time, 35 hours (however we are currently on a 31.5 hour-week trial that will likely be extended)

• Two-year fixed-term contract

• 25 days holiday per annum pro rata, plus bank holidays

• Flexible working - hybrid working including from our office in London N5, from home and travel around London and the UK for training delivery  

• Reporting to Abianda’s Founder & CEO

• Abianda provides a generous benefits and training and development budget for all employees

​

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for fundraising, communications, and community impact? Vauxhall City Farm is looking for a visionary Head of Fundraising and Engagement to shape and drive the income and engagement strategies that will support our ambitious growth as we reach our 50th anniversary in 2026. As part of the Senior Management Team, you will play a pivotal role in developing our next five-year strategy, while leading fundraising, marketing, and events that bring our mission to life. This is a unique opportunity to lead in a purpose-driven organisation, championing innovation and impact in one of London’s leading city farms. 

We're looking for someone with:

• Proven senior leadership and stakeholder engagement experience

• A strong track record in growing income across fundraising streams

• Deep knowledge of charity fundraising, communications and marketing

• Experience managing teams, budgets, and complex projects

• Excellent strategic thinking and operational delivery skills

• Confidence working with Boards, funders and partners

• A collaborative, values-driven leadership style

• Strong understanding of governance, safeguarding and compliance

Are you someone who believes that the unique power of sport positively impacts the lives of disabled people?

We're seeking a Senior Partnerships Officer to help us expand our Coaching and Training offerings. In this dynamic role, you'll be the driving force behind forming new partnerships and strengthening existing networks. You’ll also manage exciting collaborations and think creatively about community sports development and its impact, helping shape opportunities that truly make a difference.

You will identify opportunities by generating leads, attending events, and engaging stakeholders to grow. You’ll have the chance to work across our project portfolio, delivering outcomes for our partners and funders, including Nike and London Sport.

Through line-managing our Workforce Development Officer, you will oversee the development of our talented and inspiring workforce, who are vital to our success.

You will play a key part in generating unrestricted funding to support our core operations and initiatives. Contributing to our “Enrich” strategic strand, a central focus will be fostering trust within the communities we serve, enriching the experiences of disabled people.

The role addresses gaps in delivery to meet the needs of underserved communities, supports the development of coaches by creating paid opportunities and mentorship for disabled coaches, and promotes awareness and attendance at our Community Clubs.

Working closely with the Head of Service Delivery, you’ll help shape the future by developing sustainable pipelines for growth, while playing your part in responding to enquiries as a valued member of our friendly team.

We’re looking for someone with a growth mindset who thrives within a small and inclusive delivery team. A positive team oriented attitude is key. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds who may not meet every qualification but are passionate about the role and bring relevant skills and experience.

If you are excited about the position of Senior Partnerships Officer, we would love to hear from you.

Head of Fundraising

Location: Lewes

Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 per annum

Hours: 37 hours per week

Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full Time

The Role

At Chailey Heritage Foundation, they give children and young people with complex disabilities the opportunity to pursue their fullest potential. As their new Head of Fundraising, you’ll lead their strategy to deliver transformational change — inspiring supporters, building partnerships, and

Key Responsibilities

As their Head of Fundraising, you will:

• Lead and inspire their dedicated fundraising team, ensuring a proactive, collaborative, and professional approach
• Shape and deliver ambitious strategies across trusts, corporates, major donors, community fundraising, events, and legacy giving
• Build strong, lasting relationships with donors, trusts, corporates, and major supporters
• Represent Chailey Heritage Foundation at events, presentations, and networking opportunities
• Provide regular reporting to trustees, senior leaders, and the Development Committee, ensuring governance, compliance, and fundraising systems are robust and effective

Skills and Qualifications

• A strong track record of success across multiple fundraising streams in the charity sector
• The ability to build lasting partnerships, diversify funding, and inspire donors at every level
• Experience of leading and motivating teams to achieve ambitious goals
• Strategic vision combined with hands-on delivery, and the confidence to innovate where it matters most

Benefits

• Enhanced Annual Leave – 25–30 days (plus bank holidays), increasing with service
• Enhanced Healthcare Cash Plan – claim back everyday health costs such as dental, optical, therapies, and counselling
• Contributory Pension Scheme
• Enhanced maternity, adoption, and paternity leave
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to their Wellbeing Centre
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Retail and leisure discounts, including Blue Light Card
• Free onsite parking, café, and kitchen facilities
• Death in Service benefit

 To Apply

If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Chailey Heritage Foundation, please click apply to be redirected to their website to complete your application.

Head of PS Financial Reporting

Are you a strategic finance leader with a passion for improving financial transparency and performance within an operational environment? Do you also have the passion to improve the lives of Adults with a Learning Disability? If this sounds like you then we would love to hear from you.

We’re recruiting for a Head of PS Financial Reporting to join our Finance team at Mencap. This is a pivotal role and the successful candidate will be in charge of the financial reporting across our Personal Support (PS) services in England, Cymru and Northern Ireland. The focus will be on providing robust financial oversight, compliance, and insight driven reporting that drives operational excellence.

This role is a full time permanent position. There is flexibility around where the role is based, we have large offices in London, and Peterborough and smaller offices located throughout the UK. If there is no office within a reasonable distance, the role may be offered as home based with some travel for team meetings. We are an inclusive employer and encourage our employees to bring themselves to work!

Key Responsibilities

• You will lead the development and delivery of accurate, timely, and insightful financial reports across PS services.
• You will collaborate with senior stakeholders on financial planning, forecasting, and performance improvement.
• You will drive continuous improvement in reporting processes and systems.
• You will promote evidence based strategic decision making through financial analysis and modelling.
• You will line manage the PS Finance Business Partnering team

Required Skills

• You will be a qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with significant post-qualification experience.
• You will have a proven track record in financial reporting and analysis within a complex organisation.
• You will have a strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and financial governance.
• You will have excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience working in or with social care or charities is desirable.

If you are passionate about using your financial expertise to create real, positive change for people with learning disabilities, we want to hear from you!

Apply now- applications close on Sunday, 28th September. Interviews will commence via Teams during the week beginning 6th October.

Benefits

Here at Mencap, we offer an impressive range of benefits designed to support and reward our employees to ensure that our teams feel valued and appreciated.

Our benefits package offers 32 days of paid holiday (including bank holidays, pro rata), along with a range of perks such as discounts at leading high-street retailers, access to health cash plans, interest-free loans, and many more exciting offerings.

For more details on what we have to offer, please see the attached document outlining all the fantastic benefits available to you as a member of our team!

About Mencap

Our vision is for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives. We're here to support people with a learning disability, their families and their carers. We fight for a kinder, fairer and more inclusive society for people with a learning disability to live in.

At Mencap, everyone works with people with a learning disability either providing support or advice, or alongside one another as colleagues.

Belonging at Mencap is for everyone, every day, everywhere.

• Everyone is expected to treat people well and make Mencap an inclusive organisation.
• Every day we grow and learn. It’s okay to make mistakes but we learn from them and make changes
• Everywhere people will feel respected, valued, and safe to be themselves.

We have Belonging network groups that meet online and are open to all colleagues. The groups include people who identify as Black and Asian, LGBTQIA+, disabled or with a long- term health condition, women, parents and carers, and their allies.

We want to encourage everyone to apply to work at Mencap and we offer a variety of different contract types and working patterns. We’re not looking for specific experience. It is your personality and values that will make you a great colleague. We will train and develop you to succeed in the role you’re applying for.

Location: Camden Road, London N7

Salary: circa £45,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week

Reporting To: Head of Finance and IT

Contract: Permanent

Centre 404 is a thriving charity with a proud history of supporting people with learning disabilities and their families. Based in North London, we currently work across eight London boroughs. We are looking for a skilled and motivated Finance Manager to lead our finance function and help us build a financially resilient future.

�� About the Role

This is a key leadership role within our Central Services team. You’ll oversee day-to-day financial operations, manage a small team, and deliver accurate, timely reporting that supports strategic decision-making across the organisation.

You’ll work closely with the Head of Finance & IT, senior managers, and Trustees to ensure robust financial planning, compliance, and risk management. Your work will directly support our mission and help us maximise the impact of every pound we receive.

�� Key Responsibilities

· Lead the finance team and manage daily operations

· Deliver monthly management accounts, statutory reporting, and audits

· Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning

· Ensure compliance with Charity SORP, funder requirements, and financial regulations

· Support strategic projects and deputise for the Head of Finance & IT

�� About You

We’re looking for someone who is either qualified or working towards ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or CIPFA, with a strong track record in financial management. You’ll be a confident communicator, a proactive problem-solver, and a collaborative leader who thrives in a mission-led environment.

You’ll bring:

· Experience in charity finance and donor reporting (desirable)

· Strong understanding of financial systems and controls

· Ability to lead and develop a finance team

· Excellent interpersonal and analytical skills

· A commitment to Centre 404’s values and mission

�� What We Offer

· A supportive, inclusive working environment

· Opportunities for professional development

· Flexible working arrangements

· The chance to make a real difference in people’s lives

We are recruiting to the role of Head of Finance, following the retirement of a long-standing member of staff. The role will be part of the Leadership Team at CPAS and report to the Director of Operations and Finance. The successful candidate will lead a small finance team and work collaboratively with Ministry and Support Teams to ensure our systems our efficient and well run.

You will be a qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) and have experience of managing a small team across the various finance functions. As part of an organisational wide programme to renew our digital systems, we are planning to start the process of selecting and implementing a new finance system in 2026 and the successful applicant will work with our IT and digital team to deliver the project. 

This is an exciting time at CPAS, as we move forward with our new strategy, covering 2025-2030. We are looking for someone who shares our vision and sees a strong Finance function as core to achieving our objectives. CPAS has strong reserves, and we want to ensure our current financial model enables us to invest in new areas of work and expand our influence and reach. You will be a team player and have experience of working at a senior finance level, able to ensure the detailed financial functions serve the complexities of our holiday operation, alongside our other income generating areas of work. You will be a practising Christian who is passionate about how excellent financial management supports the mission of CPAS, committed to upholding the Christian ethos of CPAS and encouraging biblical wisdom and advice.

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you!

Salary range: £53,940—£59,617 per annum (with a possibility to extend for an exceptional candidate).

This is a full-time appointment of 37 hours per week.

This post will be subject to a satisfactory Basic DBS check and completion of a Declaration of Suitability form. You must have evidence of your ongoing right to work in the UK.

Due to the nature of the role there is an Occupational Requirement that the postholder is a committed Christian under Part 1 of Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010, an active member of a local church, and in agreement with the CPAS Basis of Faith.

Application deadline: 9am on Monday 29 September.

Interviews are scheduled for Tuesday 7 October at our offices in Coventry.

The Philharmonia is looking to appoint an experienced and inspiring Head of Education & Community Engagement to lead on the day to day running of learning projects, with a firm focus on developing and growing this work. With a proven track record of creative leadership, innovation and producing high quality music education and community projects, successful applicants will be led by a passionate belief in the power of orchestral music to transform lives, whether as audiences or participants.

Centred around our ambition to deepen our engagement in our residencies in and out of London, this role will be responsible for the creative and strategic development and execution of both our long-established programmes (like Hear and Now, and Orchestra Unwrapped), as well as co-creating and developing new, innovative projects addressing real needs in schools and community settings. The role will have a strong direct connection with our Community Boards, the advisory bodies in our residency areas, and the Music Hubs, as partners and co-creators. Candidates should have a progressive and well-informed approach to place-based and grassroots music-making and project creation, and a strong understanding of the latest developments in the music education landscape. 

Combining a keen grasp of participant needs, with sound understanding of commissioner and funder requirements, as well as a can-do, entrepreneurial attitude, this is a great opportunity for a senior manager to progress to the next level of leadership within the sector and shape the education and community engagement programmes of a leading orchestra.

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Planning:

• Undertake research and mapping as required to ensure that projects and programmes respond to local and regional needs and is distinctive and complementary in the context of other providers.

• Keep abreast of educational policy and practice at national and regional governmental level, ensuring that project development is aligned with current thinking and strategy.

• Develop new bespoke and innovative education and community projects in strategic partnership with local and national bodies, allied to the core work of the Orchestra.

Leadership and Management:

• Provide creative leadership and direction for the Learning and Engagement Department, reflecting and clearly articulating the Philharmonia’s vision, mission and values

• Develop and motivate the members of the Learning and Engagement Team, and as required, manage the Learning & Engagement team’s support staff, such as freelance Project Managers, animateurs and musicians

• Sustain and strengthen existing partnerships for funding and delivery with key stakeholders including other NPOs, Local Authorities, Music Education Hubs, community groups, arts organisations and venues, private and public development agencies and schools, colleges and universities.

• Represent the Orchestra on the Strategic Boards of appropriate bodies in London and residencies (for example, music hubs)

• Ensure that key national and regional stakeholders have a detailed understanding of the Orchestra’s Learning and Engagement work, as well as ensuring effective and constructive communication with artists and musicians engaged in the Philharmonia Orchestra’s Learning and Engagement Programme

• Represent the Philharmonia Orchestra at external meetings and conferences, as required, acting as an advocate and ambassador for the Orchestra. 

• Lead and manage the Safeguarding for the Orchestra, ensure that the Philharmonia Orchestra’s safeguarding policy and procedure is up to date and effectively implemented, including taking responsibility as the Philharmonia’s Designated Safeguarding Officer; ensure that all relevant staff and freelance practitioners have current DBS checks. 

Programme Management and Delivery:

• Oversee evaluations of all projects to share outcomes with stakeholders and partners and to learn lessons for developing and delivering future projects. 

• Agree and manage budgets for the Learning and Engagement Department

• Commission and oversee production of project-specific marketing materials. 

• Help to develop and support the Orchestra’s Audience Development Strategy, in close partnership with the Marketing Director. 

• Oversee all aspects of project management, planning and production of the various projects and workshops which make up the Philharmonia’s Learning Programme

• Deputise for the Director of L&E as required

Skills and Qualifications

Essential:

• Minimum five years’ experience in a relevant role

• Knowledge of the education and community learning landscape

• Experience with managing and monitoring budgets

• Experience with producing and devising large scale, education, community or participation projects

• Excellent communication skills, with a personable and approachable style

• Experience of reporting tools and data visualisation, ideally for funders

• Passion and interest for music and the arts, with an excellent understanding of orchestras and classical music repertoire

• Ability to read music and orchestral scores

• Ability to lead, mentor and train a team

• Willingness to have a hands-on attitude 

• Willingness to work unsocial hours, including evenings and weekends – must want to attend concerts and learning projects

Desirable:

• An education or community learning qualification or degree

• Experience of creating external reports and evaluations 

 We’re looking for a dynamic Head of Social Enterprise to help shape the future of University of Wolverhampton Students’ Union.

This is a unique opportunity to drive both strategic development and hands-on leadership across our commercial and marketing functions, as we expand our commercial offer over the next 18 months and beyond.

As Head of Social Enterprise, you will:

Provide proactive support to the Chief Executive Officer on strategy and operations. Offering clear advice to the CEO and Board of Trustees.

Lead and manage the Marketing, and Commercial teams, ensuring their work aligns with our strategic goals and values.

Play a pivotal role in the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to organisational strategy and innovation.

Developing and establishing a marketing strategy, as well as establishing a brand for the organisation that our stakeholders can relate too.

Take responsibility for the growth and development of our commercial operations, from bars and cafés to new ventures.

This role is central to driving commercial sustainability while enhancing the student experience. You’ll balance commercial performance with social purpose, ensuring our services are not only profitable but also meaningful to our members.

Key Responsibilities:

· Lead strategic and operational planning, deputising for the CEO when required.

· Develop and deliver a marketing strategy that strengthens our brand and deepens student engagement.

· Grow our commercial portfolio through research, innovation, and evidence-based decision making.

· Build and maintain strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, from students and staff to suppliers and the wider University community.

· Champion a positive, inclusive culture, embedding our values across teams.

About You

We’re seeking an experienced, forward-thinking leader who brings:

· Proven experience in strategic and operational leadership within a commercial, social enterprise, or third-sector environment.

· A track record of developing and delivering successful marketing and commercial strategies.

· Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.

· A collaborative and innovative mindset, able to balance business growth with social impact.

Why Join Us?

This is more than just a temporary role; it’s an opportunity to shape the long-term future of our Students’ Union. Over the next 18 months, we will be developing and expanding our commercial offer, and this role is key to that journey. For the right candidate, there is a strong possibility of the position becoming permanent.

We’re committed to equality of opportunity for all. We welcome applications from individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender, or disability status.

We want to support diverse and inclusive work environments and are actively looking for people who share our values. We particularly welcome BAME applicants.

If you are motivated by making a difference, driven by innovation, and excited by the challenge of leading a growing social enterprise, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply please follow this link:

Vacancy

About Shout Out UK (SOUK):

Shout Out UK (SOUK) is a UK-based award-winning political and media literacy organisation with nearly a decade of experience in delivering impactful educational campaigns. Our mission is to defend and amplify democracy by equipping individuals with the critical thinking skills needed to navigate the complex information landscape and engage as informed, active citizens. We have a strong track record of working with educators and young people across various contexts, and we are the secretariat for the UK’s All-Party Parliamentary Group for Political and Media Literacy.

The Position:

You will be joining our small, passionate NGO to manage our programme implementation and delivery. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will be tasked with managing the distribution and delivery of our programmes. This will involve ensuring KPIs are met within budget and on time, larger projects may be handled by you directly at times. Programmes can vary from delivery of media literacy workshops in schools, counter extremism training in PRUs to city-wide democratic engagement campaigns.

The applicant needs to be motivated, interested in counter-extremism and passionate about Political & Media Literacy.

Key responsibilities

• Manage and deliver on our diverse projects 

• Coordinate our UK and US based delivery teams.

• Ensuring projects hit required KPIs on time and within budget.

• Tracking project expenses and improving efficiency of output.

• Run key projects yourself as required.

• Recruit, coordinate and support schools and teachers across the UK to take on our political and media literacy workshops and projects.

• Establish and maintain effective relationships with teachers, councils and other stakeholders.

• Assist in the collection and collation of data for the project’s monitoring and evaluation activities, including pre- and post-session surveys.

• Contribute to the preparation of project reports.

• Coordination and growth of our freelance delivery network, known as the Community Facilitator Network (CFN).

• Occasionally travel nationally and/or internationally, if required.

• Fulfil other duties as reasonably requested

Skills and Experience:

• Proven experience in project coordination or administration, preferably in the education, non-profit, or related sector.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

• Experience in event planning and logistics coordination.

• Proficiency in Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail) and other relevant software.

• A strong interest in political and media literacy, civic engagement, and addressing online harms.

• Ability to work independently and proactively, taking initiative to solve problems.

• Familiarity with online learning platforms and virtual communication tools.

• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., education, social sciences, communications) is preferred.

• Strong writing skills are desirable. 

• Must be eligible to work in the UK.

Personal Attributes:

As a natural leader, you are adept at managing fast-paced projects with multiple stakeholders. You possess outstanding project management and administrative skills, enabling you to work effectively under pressure, prioritize tasks, and consistently meet targets and deadlines.

You have a clear eye for detail and experience in delivering training programmes for schools and colleges, along with planning and developing resources.

Above all, you understand the needs and pressures faced by schools, sixth forms, and further education colleges. You can build strong relationships with teachers and support staff, and you excel at networking, negotiating, persuading, and problem-solving, all while remaining flexible to meet the needs of teachers and practitioners. You have excellent communication skills, both written and spoken.

This position requires an enhanced DBS check, provided by SOUK, in accordance with our Child Protection and Safeguarding policies.

Benefits:

• Unlimited Leave.

• Work Abroad Scheme.

• Opportunity to be part of an impactful project addressing critical societal challenges.

• Collaborative and supportive working environment with an international team.

• Professional development opportunities.