Chief financial officer jobs

We are seeking an exceptional leader to be our next chief executive, leading a respected and influential membership organisation at the heart of a thriving grassroots movement.

You’ll be working to build on the success we’ve seen and strong position and voice we have established for ourselves and our members, as a leading force for inclusive and sustainable transport and communities.

You’ll bring an impressive track record in values-based leadership, a proven ability to engage and inspire grassroots change-makers, strategic partners and policy-makers, and a deep belief in the importance of community-led change towards a sustainable, equitable future.

About us

Community Rail Network is a national not-for-profit organisation, which is in the process of applying for charitable status, supporting a growing ‘community rail’ movement, which helps communities get the most from their railways, promotes sustainable and inclusive travel, coordinates volunteering and place-making, and brings people together.

Community rail is made up of 77 community-based organisations, and around 1,300 station volunteer groups and other community-led initiatives around Britain. Their activities range from creative projects for young people, to advising train operators on service improvements, to building travel confidence among marginalised groups, to biodiversity projects at stations, to promoting greener tourism by rail.

Our enthusiastic team of 24 works from home in dispersed locations, but we come together regularly in person and online. We work collaboratively to support members, provide training, events and resources, run campaigns, and champion community rail and its insights. We believe in helping everyone reach their potential while having a good work-life balance.

About this role, and your main responsibilities

Our current CEO is moving on after nine years in role, leaving the organisation, team and wider movement in a strong and empowered position to deliver on the next phase of our development.

Your opportunity is to lead the organisation, and to deliver on our new five-year strategy setting an ambitious course for the future during a period of major transformation for our railways and the wider transport system. You will ensure that we are:

• clear in our identity and our independence, and seen as thought leaders in our field;
• are supporting our members and stakeholders to meet their changing and diverse needs; and
• ensuring the financial and operational resilience of the organisation in an environment that is undergoing a period of rapid change.

As CEO, you will lead a passionate and experienced senior leadership team with three direct reports, while working closely with and reporting into our Board, key partners and funders, and ensuing an engaging, empowering, tenacious approach across all we do.

Advocacy of community rail and its benefits will be high on your agenda, and you will be working closely across multiple stakeholders including UK and devolved national governments, regional and local authorities as well as forging collaborative partnerships with like-minded organisations.

Maintaining our community-centric ethos, you will need to ensure we're effective in enabling members to unlock greater value from the railways at a grassroots level, while drawing on their insights to affect wider change. With hundreds of member groups and organisations across Britain delivering life-changing, place-enhancing work, you will have a solid foundation to build on, to take community rail forward and expand our impact in the years ahead.

Last, but not least, you will be responsible for ensuring the strong and effective governance of the organisation, modelling our governing principles, values and behaviours, and ensuring that we have robust financial and resource management in place.

Skills, competencies and qualities

1. Exceptional leadership skills, including a proven ability to lead, develop and grow third sector organisations or multi-faceted teams delivering complex activities, projects and campaigns;
2. Excellent communication and external leadership skills: articulate, assertive, with the ability to work diplomatically and persuasively with stakeholders at all levels;
3. Experienced in acting as the public face of an organisation, such as through the media, public speaking and high-level meetings, and using evidence and storytelling to articulate and champion a cause;
4. Politically astute, with knowledge of and commitment to social inclusion, social justice and sustainability, and a sound grasp of the importance of public transport, sustainable travel, and community-led action;
5. A proven ability to influence policy and decision-makers, and to identify influencing opportunities, ideally in relation to community development, sustainability and/or transport, including sharing community insights;
6. A strong track record in income generation and development, building strong funder relationships and delivery partnerships, managing programme or organisational budgets and controlling expenditure;
7. Experience of working with and/or reporting to a board, ideally in a not-for-profit and/or membership context;
8. An empowering, engaging approach to leadership, management and change-making;
9. Resilient, pragmatic and determined, with the ability to work under pressure, seize emergent opportunities, manage risk, and support others dealing with competing priorities.

Other information

The role will involve extensive travel within Britain as part of building your profile and that of the organisation with central and devolved government in Scotland and Wales, and increasingly with the devolved regions of England.

There is flexibility on location given the requirement to travel and that your office will be home-based. You will need to travel to in-person quarterly team meetings (usually in London or West Yorkshire) and to Board meetings which alternate between online and London. It is expected that travel will be by public transport and easy access to the rail network is therefore required to ensure journeys can be made sustainably. 

This is a full-time position, 37 hours per week. We use a flexi-time system with core hours 10am-3pm, and are committed to being a flexible, supportive and understanding employer. This is a permanent position with a probationary period of six months. 

Benefits: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (rising up to 30 days, plus Bank Holidays, in line with long service); pension with employer contribution of 7%; and access to Employee Assistance Programme.

Successful applicants will need to provide proof that they have the right to work in the UK and provide two references.

Community Rail Network is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and Black, Asian and other minoritised groups, who meet with the skills and competencies for this role. We will provide reasonable adjustments for interviews as required.

The Finance Director is responsible for all aspects of the group's finances (National Federation of Music Societies, trading as Making Music and its trading subsidiary), to ensure accurate and complete recording of all financial transactions, adherence to internal controls and procedures, and timely and effective analysis and reporting to the Chief Executive, Senior Management Team and other budget holders, the Finance & Compliance Committee and the Board of Trustees.

The Finance Director post is an integral part of the charity's senior management team, working closely with the Chief Executive, the Deputy CEO Advocacy and Lobbying and the Marketing Director, setting the strategic direction of the organisation and ensuring it has the financial systems and resources to implement its strategy.

The role line-manages and oversees the work of the Finance Manager who runs the day-to-day financial accounting processes, with the help of two Finance Administrators.

The role also leads on supporting members with finances, e.g. leading Treasurers' events, relevant website resources and responding to finance-related consultations.

The 2.5 days (18.75 hours) per week can be worked flexibly, and at least some of them from home, by agreement with your line manager. We would expect you to spend at least 1 days each week in our London office in Moorgate.

This is a friendly team, and our bright and lively office is located in one of the buzziest areas of London, with excellent transport links and nice places to spend your lunchtimes or meet friends after work.

When life gets tough, good relationships help us through.

TLC: Talk, Listen, Change is a relationships charity that has supported people in the North of England for over 40 years.

Our aim to ensure everyone within our community benefits from good emotional wellbeing, and the key to this is maintaining safe, healthy, and happy relationships.

We’re entering an exciting phase of growth across the country and are looking for a Group Finance Director to join our Executive Leadership Team to contribute to the collective leadership of the TLC Group.

The Role

This role will lead the financial strategy and financial management of the TLC Group.

You will:

· Lead financial strategy to ensure sustainability and growth.

· Advise the CEO, Executive Leadership Team, and Board on financial matters.

· Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cashflow, and financial planning.

· Ensure strong governance, controls, and regulatory compliance.

· Provide clear, high-quality financial reporting and Board assurance.

· Lead audit, statutory reporting, and external auditor relationships.

· Oversee financial systems and processes to support growth.

· Lead financial due diligence for partnerships, mergers, and opportunities.

· Lead and develop the finance team, promoting accountability, and transparency.

About You

We’re looking for a values-led, people-focused leader with sound judgement and strong operational experience.

You’ll bring:

· Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).

· Significant senior finance leadership experience.

· Strong expertise in financial strategy, planning, and governance.

· Experience of Board reporting and working with senior stakeholders.

· Skilled in budgeting, forecasting, and cashflow management.

· Experience in financial modelling and supporting growth.

· Proven ability to lead and develop high performing teams.

· Strong analytical skills, including advanced excel capability.

· Able to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance audiences.

· Collaborative, values-led, and motivated by social impact.

The Offer

· Salary: £61,429 - £71,069

· 37 hours per week

· Hybrid working, with time spent at TLC Group offices (various locations across England).

· The opportunity to help lead a growing national service with strong group-level support.

If you’re motivated by using your financial expertise to drive meaningful social impact, and want to play a key role in shaping the future of a growing, values-led organisation, we’d love to hear from you.

Application Deadline:

The deadline for applications is Thursday 14th May 2026

Interviews expected in Manchester on Tuesday 2nd June 2026

Assistant Finance Director (12–18 month FTC to begin)
A leading Housing Association in the area

A well-established and forward-thinking Housing Association is seeking an Assistant Finance Director to join on a 12–18 month contract initially. Reporting directly to the CFO, this position offers a unique opportunity to operate as the number two in finance, playing a key role in both strategic leadership and operational delivery.

The organisation provides a broad range of general and supported housing and is recognised for its commitment to delivering high-quality services and positive outcomes for its communities.

This role is ideally suited to a senior finance professional with Housing sector experience who is looking to step into a high-impact leadership role, driving improvements across people, processes, and financial insight.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the finance function, acting as deputy to the CFO
• Oversee financial and management accounting, ensuring robust reporting and controls
• Support financial planning, treasury activities, and development finance
• Drive a high-quality business partnering function across the organisation
• Lead on improving financial processes, systems, and internal controls
• Support the Executive team on business planning, including scenario modelling and stress testing

Requirements

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
• Proven experience within a Housing Association or Registered Provider
• Strong leadership capability, with experience managing and developing teams
• Ability to operate at a strategic level and influence senior stakeholders
• Excellent technical finance skills combined with a commercial, business-partnering mindset
• Strong analytical and systems capability, with confident communication skills

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious finance leader looking to step into a director level role within a purpose-driven organisation.

Our Room is a values-driven, creative support community working with male, trans and non-binary people who do sex work: an often-hidden population experiencing some of the highest levels of homelessness, trauma, poor mental health and social exclusion in Manchester. For twenty years, we have been a trusted, specialist service providing intensive advocacy alongside creative, developmental programmes that help participants stabilise their lives and imagine new futures.

As a Manchester-based organisation, we are the only organisation in the UK whose core mission is to support male, trans and non-binary people who do sex work. We believe that everyone who sex works deserves dignity, respect and safety.

We are seeking someone who can bring together clear strategic thinking and hands-on-leadership to inspire our staff team and represent the charity externally across key sectors and partnerships. This is an opportunity to lead a unique and vital organisation supporting male, trans and non-binary people who sex work.

The CEO acts as the primary external ambassador for the organisation, maintaining partnerships across housing and homelessness, sex work and VCSE sectors. The role is responsible for establishing our inclusive, values-led culture and is accountable for ensuring the charity delivers impact for male, trans and non-binary people who sex work. 

Merseyside Society for Deaf People

Chief Executive

Full-time

Permanent

Merseyside

Merseyside Society for Deaf People (MSDP) has been supporting and empowering Deaf, Deafblind and hard-of-hearing people since 1864. We are one of the oldest deaf charities in the country and an important part of the Deaf community on Merseyside.

We are a local charity with a national outlook. Campaigning, advocacy and practical support are all central to who we are. We work to advance equality for Deaf, Deafblind, and hard-of-hearing people by raising awareness of the barriers they face and providing accessible, high-quality services that promote independence, inclusion, and well-being.

MSDP is a “lived experience”- led organisation that works in partnership with Deaf, Deafblind, and hard-of-hearing communities to design and deliver services that reflect real needs and lived realities.

Demand for our services is growing. The needs of Deaf, Deafblind, and hard-of-hearing people continue to evolve, and support systems do not always keep pace. Rising delivery costs, pressure on public funding and the need to diversify income all make this a pivotal moment for the organisation.

We’re looking for an inspiring, values-led leader who can combine long-term vision with day-to-day delivery. You’ll work closely with the Board of Trustees to steer our business strategy, ensuring both sustainability and innovation.

You will lead teams with compassion and purpose, embedding Deaf culture and equality at the heart of everything we do. As our ambassador, you’ll also influence partners, funders, and policymakers to broaden our reach and impact.

To be our next Chief Executive you will bring strategic leadership experience with a proven record of accountability, financial stewardship, strong governance, and organisational growth. You’re a confident communicator and influencer, comfortable building partnerships and leading campaigns. Above all, you share our values of inclusion, integrity, and community.

How to apply

Please click on the apply button for further information.

To apply, please submit your CV and a supporting statement explaining how you meet the requirements of the role. Applications in written English, BSL video, or other accessible formats are welcomed. As a general guide, your Supporting Statement should be around two sides of A4.

View a BSL version of the candidate brief on the MSDP website.

Closing date: Sunday 22nd May

Accessibility

Please let us know if you have any special requirements which we might need to consider in relation to the selection process, e.g. attending interview, completing any part of the selection process. Any requests will not be taken into account in the selection process.

MSDP is a Disability Confident Employer.

Founded in 1865, and established by Royal Charter, the Royal Alfred is a much respected and widely known Maritime Charity based in Surrey providing a Nursing Care Home and affordable Housing for former seafarers and their dependents. Due to the impending retirement of the current Chief Executive Officer, they are seeking a dynamic individual to take on this exciting opportunity to build upon recent achievements and to meet the challenge of maintaining a first-class service to the Society's beneficiaries.

To £85 000 + bens

Surrey - Hybrid

The post requires a committed, well-motivated individual with excellent communication skills, able to absorb responsibility yet delegate to an established and talented team of senior managers. Training, where applicable, will be provided, particularly for registration as the Nominated Individual. The post also takes responsibility for Finance, and thus an understanding of financial procedures and budgetary control will be essential.

Reporting to the Chair, other duties will include;

● As the Nominated Individual, supervise the management of the Care Home (Belvedere House), together with Housing, ensuring the highest standards of delivery possible are being achieved.

● Representing the interests of the Society within the wider Maritime Charity and Care sectors as necessary.

● Ensuring that the Strategic Plan and all Policies laid down by the Society are implemented and adhered to.

● Ensuring that all legal, statutory, governance, and best practice guidelines are adhered to.

● Overseeing grant application planning, submission and implementation, including identifying resource requirements and submitting proposals.

Who are we looking for?

The nature of the Charity defines that a candidate with some maritime experience in a leadership role would be an advantage but is not essential. Previous experience in the care sector or some experience in regulated environments is also desirable

The successful candidate will have proven experience as a senior manager, and will be an effective leader, with a willingness to learn then apply knowledge of Care Services as the legally Nominated Individual. The chosen candidate will require DBS certification for work with vulnerable adults.

The closing date for applications will be Monday 18th May. Any direct applications will be forwarded to our retained consultant, Simon Bell at Adjacency Executive Search.

Longmire Recruitment is our dedicated recruitment partner for this vacancy.

• Location: Hybrid working – (currently 5 days over 2 weeks in office)
• Reports to:        Chief Executive Officer

About SRUK:

Scleroderma & Raynaud’s UK is the UK’s leading charity for people affected by Scleroderma and Raynaud’s. We provide information and support to patients, campaign for better awareness and services, and fund research into treatments and cures.

We are a small, ambitious and impactful organisation. Working at SRUK means being part of a collaborative team where everyone contributes whilst thinking strategically about our long-term impact. The COO will work closely with internal teams, professionals, researchers, trustees, and people affected by these conditions.

The Role:

Key Responsibilities include:

• Working closely with the CEO, the COO will translate strategic vision into operational delivery, ensuring the organisation has the systems, people, and processes in place to achieve its goals
• Providing operational leadership as part of the Senior Management Team
• Overseeing financial management, budgeting, and reporting
• Leading governance, compliance, and Board support
• Driving people strategy, culture, and organisational development
• Managing IT systems, data, and digital transformation
• Ensuring effective operational processes and risk management
• Providing support to the department heads, chair SMT meetings, and deputise for the CEO when needed

About You:

You will bring significant experience in senior operational leadership, ideally in the charity or not-for-profit sector.  Knowledge of health, particularly rare conditions or patient organisations would be advantageous, but not essential.   

You will have a strong track record of leading and developing senior teams.  Financially astute, you have experience overseeing budgets, management accounts, and presenting to Boards, alongside a solid understanding of governance and regulatory compliance. 

You will bring experience in HR and people management, including policy development and employee relations, as well as oversight of systems, IT, and digital infrastructure. Professional qualification in finance, HR, or relevant management discipline would be advantageous. 

Crucially, you will combine strategic insight with a pragmatic, hands-on approach, and will be comfortable operating across a broad remit within a small, agile organisation, and motivated by the opportunity to help shape and strengthen how it operates.

Why Join Us:

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference for people affected by rare diseases. You’ll work within a passionate, dedicated team and lead initiatives that help sustain and grow SRUK’s vital work.

How to apply:

Longmire Recruitment is our dedicated recruitment partner for this vacancy.

About Us:

At Future CFO, we're committed to excellence in financial consulting, offering bespoke solutions to our clients who are predominantly in the not for profit and social impact space. As a forward-thinking organization, we're looking for a dynamic Finance Manager to join our senior management team. The Finance Manager will be responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of Future CFO clients. This includes financial planning, budgeting, reporting, analysis, strategic decision-making and donor reporting. The Finance Manager is responsible for managing, supervising, and directing financial activities that our charity clients buy into. Other duties include strategic support and advisory to the management personnel and their Board members ensuring finances are used beneficially, developing the financial strategy, assessing investments, and ensuring legal and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate will have Non Profit and NGO experience and possess a blend of strong financial accounting skills and the ability to manage complex month-end processes across clients that are based globally. The individual will possess excellent communication abilities to liaise effectively with various teams and clients. They will be confident and a self-starter with excellent people skills, possess a passion for growth and create a powerful and connected team culture.

Before you apply

We’d encourage you to take a good look through the role responsibilities and person specification before applying. This is a broad and impactful role, so we’re looking for someone who can demonstrate strong experience across many of these areas and make sure your application brings this to life. We are also open to considering contractors with equivalent experience.

Please note that this role will primarily involve working with a client based in the United States. As such, candidates must be comfortable accommodating time zone differences and working flexible hours where required to support client needs.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Planning, Budgeting & Forecasting

• Lead the annual budgeting process across all programmes and country offices, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy and funding requirements

• Develop and maintain robust financial models, including forecasts and scenario planning

• Produce regular forecasts (income, expenditure, and cash flow), highlighting risks and opportunities

• Partner with budget holders to ensure accountability and ownership of financial plans

Management Reporting & Financial Performance

• Oversee the preparation of timely and accurate monthly management accounts

• Deliver clear variance analysis with meaningful insights for decision-making

• Develop and enhance management reporting to improve visibility across programmes, grants, and geographies

• Present financial performance to senior leadership and non-finance stakeholders in an accessible way

Financial Accounting, Month-End & Audit

• Oversee and ensure timely and accurate month-end and year-end close processes

• Maintain integrity of the general ledger, including review of journals, accruals, and prepayments

• Ensure all balance sheet accounts are reconciled regularly and supported by appropriate documentation

• Lead the year-end audit process, acting as the primary point of contact for external auditors

• Prepare statutory accounts and ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards and local regulations

• Continuously improve financial processes, controls, and systems

Reserves & Cash Flow Management

• Support the development and management of organisational reserves in line with policy and strategic objectives

• Monitor and manage cash flow across entities, ensuring sufficient liquidity at all times

• Identify financial risks and propose mitigation strategies, particularly in relation to funding gaps

• Provide recommendations on reserves utilisation and financial sustainability

Grant & Donor Financial Management

• Oversee financial management of grants, ensuring budgets are accurate, compliant, and aligned with donor requirements

• Support proposal budgeting in collaboration with fundraising and programme teams

• Ensure timely and accurate donor financial reporting, including variance analysis and narrative explanations

• Maintain strong oversight of grant spend, ensuring compliance with funding agreements

• Act as a key finance business partner to programme teams on grant delivery

Financial Governance & Controls

• Ensure strong financial controls and compliance with internal policies and external regulations

• Support organisational audits and ensure audit readiness across all funding streams

• Maintain and improve financial policies, procedures, and systems

• Promote best practice in financial management across country teams

Strategic Finance & Business Partnering

• Act as a strategic finance partner to country directors and senior leadership

• Provide financial insight to support organisational strategy and growth

• Strengthen financial processes, tools, and reporting in a complex, multi-entity environment

• Build financial capability across non-finance teams

Candidate Profile

Qualifications & Experience

• Fully qualified accountant (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)

• Minimum 5-6 years experience in a senior finance role, ideally within the non-profit, international development, or grant-funded sector

• Proven experience managing budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes

• Strong experience of grant and donor financial management and reporting

• Experience leading month-end and year-end processes, including external audits

• Experience working across multiple entities, countries, or complex organisational structures is highly desirable

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of financial accounting principles and controls

• Excellent financial modelling, budgeting, and forecasting skills

• Ability to interpret and present complex financial data clearly to non-finance stakeholders

• Knowledge of donor compliance requirements and restricted funding environments

• Experience with finance systems and advanced Excel (or equivalent tools i.e. quickbooks, xero, etc.)

• Strong understanding of cash flow management and reserves planning

Leadership & Business Partnering

• Proven ability to act as a strategic finance partner to senior stakeholders

• Experience working collaboratively with non-finance teams (e.g. programmes, fundraising, operations)

• Ability to influence decision-making through clear financial insight

• Proactive and solutions-oriented, with the confidence to challenge where appropriate

Personal Attributes

• High level of integrity and accountability

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to see the bigger picture

• Excellent organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal

• Adaptable and comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment

• A collaborative and supportive team player with a hands-on approach

Desirable

• Experience in a multi-country or decentralised organisation

• Experience working with outsourced finance providers or shared service models

• Familiarity with international compliance, local regulations, and different accounting frameworks

• Interest in or commitment to the organisation’s mission and impact 

What We Offer

Purpose & Impact

• The opportunity to play a key role in a mission-driven organisation, contributing to meaningful and measurable impact

• A chance to shape and strengthen financial strategy in a growing, international environment

Professional Growth & Influence

• A highly visible role with exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision-making

• Opportunity to lead and improve financial systems, processes, and ways of working

• Scope to develop and broaden your experience in a complex, multi-country, grant-funded environment

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary 

• Pension contribution for permanent staff and FTC

• Annual leave for permanent staff and FTC

Flexibility & Work Environment

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

• A supportive and collaborative team culture

• Commitment to work-life balance

Wellbeing & Culture

• A values-driven organisation with a strong sense of purpose

• Inclusive and diverse working environment

• Employee wellbeing initiatives and support

International Exposure

• Opportunity to work with colleagues across multiple countries and cultures

• Involvement in international programmes and funding landscapes 

“The go-to organisation for a public health perspective”.

(Senior UK Government official)

The Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) is the representative body for Directors of Public Health in the UK. It has a rich heritage, with its origins dating back more than 160 years and is a collaborative organisation working in partnership with others to maximise the voice for public health.

We are now seeking a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through the next phase of its evolution, maintaining and building upon its established reputation and influence. The role requires a wide-ranging set of skills, capabilities and experience, proven leadership and credibility at the highest level. The successful candidate will have strong negotiating and influencing skills, and the ability to work independently, with board-level accountability, and be expected to develop and sustain extensive national networks across local authorities, the NHS, the voluntary sector and central Government. Possessing an adaptability in working practice together with a self-motivated, proactive approach that performs well under pressure, the successful candidate will be educated to Masters level with ongoing study in public health. In addition, they should have senior management training or equivalent experience and a clear record of continuing professional development. Experience should include at least five years in the public health environment, including in policy development, plus a minimum of three years in operational, financial and resource management.

Accountable to our Board of Trustees and the wider membership, the new CEO will develop the strategic direction of the Association and lead the organisation to deliver a rolling medium-term Strategic Business Plan, balanced budgets and effective governance in compliance with company and charity law. An ability to prioritise planned and reactive work programmes to meet the needs of our membership is required, alongside the sourcing and delivery of timely bids for external funding together with the management of staff and resources to ensure value for money and staff wellbeing.

The post holder will support the President, Vice‑President, Board and ADPH Council by applying public health knowledge through teaching, coaching, publishing and presenting as appropriate, maintaining a personal programme of continuing professional development, and be expected to uphold the Association’s values of members first, excellence, collaboration, inclusion and professionalism. Occasional travel, throughout the UK, and flexibility for occasional evening or weekend work will also be necessary.

To apply, submit a CV and a covering letter outlining your leadership experience, strategic achievements and vision for supporting Directors of Public Health across the UK.

Chief Executive Officer – Resolve West

Resolve West is recruiting a Chief Executive Officer to lead our respected charity supporting people and communities to resolve conflict and repair harm.

This part‑time role offers strategic leadership at a pivotal moment, following the retirement of our long‑standing CEO. Working with a committed Board, staff team and volunteers, the CEO will strengthen financial sustainability, partnerships and organisational culture.

Key details

• Part‑time: 24–28 hours
• Location: Bristol / Hybrid
• Salary: from £45,000 FTE (pro rata)
• Closing date: 15 May 2026

An acquired brain injury can happen to anyone at any time. The impact on individuals, their friends and family, can be devastating. Headway Luton is here to help those impacted by an ABI move forward with their life. 

Headway Luton is a registered charity that provides support, advice and services to people with an acquired brain injury and to their families and carers.

We deliver centre-based activities and community support services aimed at helping people live as independently as possible, maximise their potential, and improve their quality of life.

Our work is rooted in person-centred care, dignity, respect and inclusion. We collaborate closely with local partners, funders and the community to ensure that our services remain relevant, accessible and sustainable.

Role overview

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for the overall leadership, management and development of Headway Luton.

They will ensure that the charity delivers high-quality, person-centred services in line with regulatory standards, while working with the Board of Trustees to secure the organisation’s long-term sustainability and growth.

The CEO will promote a culture that reflects our core values:

• Person-centred care
• Dignity and respect
• Safeguarding and safety
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Professional standards

Key responsibilities

1. Strategic leadership

• Lead the development and delivery of the charity’s strategic direction.
• Identify opportunities for growth, partnerships and service development.
• Ensure services continue to meet the needs of the local community.

2. Governance and board engagement

• Work closely with the Board of Trustees to support effective governance.
• Attend trustee meetings and provide clear and timely reports.
• Ensure compliance with the Charity Commission, Companies House and relevant legislation.
• Support the planning and delivery of the Annual General Meeting (AGM).

3. Service delivery & operations

• Oversee the delivery of safe, effective and high-quality services.
• Ensure compliance with Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards.
• Monitor service performance and outcomes.
• Ensure safeguarding is embedded across all services.

4. People leadership

• Lead, support and develop staff and volunteers.
• Line manage senior staff and oversee performance management processes.
• Promote a positive, inclusive and collaborative working culture.
• Ensure the appropriate recruitment, training and development of staff.

5. Financial management & sustainability

• Oversee budgets and financial performance in partnership with the Board.
• Ensure resources are managed effectively and responsibly.
• Support the development of funding streams, grants and partnerships.
• Contribute to long-term financial planning and sustainability.

Person specification

Essential criteria

Experience

• Experience in the charity, health or social care sector
• Experience of managing teams and organisational performance.
• Experience of financial oversight and budget management.

Skills and knowledge

• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Ability to work effectively with a Board or senior stakeholders
• Good understanding of governance, compliance and risk
• Strong communication and decision-making skills

Personal attributes

• Reliable, motivated and able to work independently
• Able to prioritise workload and manage competing demands
• Committed to the values and aims of Headway Luton

Desirable criteria

• Experience in a senior leadership role (e.g. CEO, Director or equivalent).
• Understanding of CQC or regulated services
• Experience of fundraising, commissioning or contract management
• Relevant qualification (e.g. business, leadership or management)

Position: Chief Executive Officer
Employer: Headway Luton Ltd (Registered Charity 1080775)
Location: 49-53 Alma Street, Luton, LU1 2PL
Responsible to: Board of Trustees

Hours: 25 hours per week (flexible, Monday to Friday)
Salary: £30,277 per annum (pro rata)
Contract: Permanent, subject to a six-month probationary period

Annual leave: 28 days plus bank holidays (pro rata)
Pension: 5% employer contribution
Other benefits: Flexible working, TOIL for additional hours and free on-site parking

Appendix 1: Initial priorities (first 6 months)

• Build strong relationships with staff, trustees and key stakeholders.
• Develop a clear understanding of services, operations and funding.
• Review the current financial position and identify risks or opportunities.
• Ensure governance and reporting processes are effective.
• Identify early opportunities for service improvement or development.
• Contribute to future strategic planning. 

This is a rare opportunity to lead a nationally recognised suicide prevention charity at a pivotal moment in its development. We are not looking to become bigger, but stronger — building the leadership, systems and sustainability needed to protect and grow our impact.

Olly’s Future is a charity born from lived experience, working to prevent young people losing their lives to suicide. Over the past five years, we have trained more than 10,000 people in suicide prevention and built trusted partnerships across healthcare, education and communities. We are part of national conversations on how to better support young people and intervene earlier.

We are now seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation into its next phase.

This is a significant leadership role, responsible for the overall direction, performance and sustainability of the charity. The CEO will work closely with the Board of Trustees and in partnership with our Founder, ensuring that Olly’s Future remains values-led, well-governed and financially resilient, while continuing to deliver high-quality, compassionate work.

We are looking for someone who can:

• Lead strategically while maintaining a strong operational grip
• Build financial sustainability through a diverse income mix
• Develop and manage partnerships across sectors
• Ensure strong governance, safeguarding and risk management
• Lead with integrity, emotional intelligence and sound judgement

This is not about changing everything or making it your own. It is about building on strong foundations with confidence and care — strengthening what works, creating stability, and enabling the organisation to grow safely and sustainably.

The role is part-time (2.5 days per week) and offers the opportunity to shape a charity operating in a critical area of national importance, contributing meaningfully to suicide prevention across the UK.

If you are a thoughtful, values-led leader who can balance ambition with realism, and are motivated by the opportunity to lead an organisation where the work is both professional and deeply human, we would love to hear from you. 

The Chief Executive & Creative Director holds the most senior post at Dance City, unites the creative and strategic functions of the organisation, and is accountable to the board of trustees for the good management and impact of the charity. The Chief Executive & Creative Director leads and works collaboratively with the board, senior management team (SMT) and stakeholders and partners to ensure that Dance City creates opportunities for people to create, produce and experience dance at its very best. The Chief Executive & Creative Director drives the business, identifying commercial opportunities, securing financial resilience, and ensuring that Dance City’s programme is at the vanguard of sustainable dance development in the region. The Chief Executive & Creative Director is based in the northeast and plays an active role in the social life and cultural communities of the region. 
 

Role Profile and Person Specification 

Key deliverables 

• Lead on Dance City’s vision, values and organisational objectives and ensure the relevance and sustainability of its creative programme.

• Ensure there is alignment between Dance City’s creative ambitions and its business needs and that all activity is delivered to the highest possible standards to plan and within budget.

• Grow the organisation’s earned income and shape and set targets for initiatives embracing commercial ventures, corporate partnerships, public funding, trusts and foundations and individual philanthropy.

• Be accountable to the board and to funding bodies, and for the responsible stewardship of Dance City.

• Ensure a strong profile and reputation for the organisation and for dance practice locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. 

• Initiate, develop and sustain partnerships with existing and potential funders and key stakeholders. 

• Lead and enable the senior team; motivate, inspire, and support the development of the wider staff team.

Role profile 

Leadership and governance  

• Develop and monitor the strategic plan with the SMT and Board. 

• Work closely with the Chair and Trustees to ensure the good governance of the charity and that organisational performance is structured and monitored using well articulated, achievable KPIs. 

• Support Trustees in being an effective Board, ensuring it comprises the appropriate range of skills and has access to training and development opportunities.

• Deploy Trustees’ skills and networks to identify and activate opportunities for commercial development and business growth.

• Be an inclusive leader, collaborate with and empower the SMT, and motivate, support and develop the wider staff team. 

Advocacy, profile and civic engagement 

• Promote the profile and reputation of Dance City locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

• Initiate and enable constructive debate about dance and its development by artists, policy-makers and the public, and to promote Dance City’s role in dance leadership.

• Articulate the transformative potential of dance in enabling social cohesion, the centrality of its place in the wider creative industries sector, and its potential, through civic partnerships and collaboration, to make a major contribution to the economy and well being of the city and region. 

• Ensure Dance City is part of local, regional, national  and international arts discussions and networks, is represented at key events and viewed as crucial to decision-making processes in the dance and wider cultural and social sectors.

• Be the face of Dance City in professional and community networks and at events in the northeast; communicate and advocate for its plans and ambitions to the widest range of people including politicians, the media, funders, artists, audiences and the public.

Creative 

• Shape, co-create and communicate the creative vision for Dance City. 

• Oversee the development and delivery of a creative programme which appeals to a wide range of audiences, demonstrates excellence, and sets out to grow appetite and demand for diverse dance experiences. 

• Build and manage sustainable commercial and funding partnerships which will enhance the profile of the programme and enable the commissioning, programming and presentation of dance within and beyond Dance City.

• Oversee the evaluation of the programme, to ensure quality, to engage in reflection and implement learning with colleagues.

• Maintain an overview of the local and national dance ecology in order to inform advocacy and planning.

Brand, commercial performance and income 

• Oversee the design and delivery of effective marketing and communications strategies that are developed and effectively delivered, to retain existing and grow new audiences for dance in the northeast and to promote the Dance City brand.

• Be proactive in the development and delivery of effective fundraising and income generation strategies for Dance City, to ensure that contributed income grows and is diversified, and to develop commercial opportunities enabled by the building and programme. 

• Play an active role in identifying and approaching prospective donors, sponsors and funding partners.

• Develop, maintain, and strengthen relationships with existing and potential supporters and to lead on key public funding and donor relationships.

Finance and operations  

• Be accountable for the financial operation of the organisation, ensuring budgets are set and monitored, appropriate financial policies and procedures are in place, compliance with appropriate legal and fiscal frameworks is followed, and that there is timely reporting to the relevant funders and authorities.

• Oversee and ensure the smooth and efficient management of Dance City’s facilities and infrastructure.

• Ensure Dance City remains a visible champion of environmental responsibility.

• Ensure the organisation is fully compliant with all legal requirements, including health and safety, and that all staff are trained appropriately. 

People and culture 

• Set the tone for and model the organisational culture, be an inclusive and consultative leader, championing employee wellbeing and engagement. 

• Ensure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place for recruitment, induction, appraisals and the professional development of staff.

• Ensure the organisation upholds its principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, valuing the wellbeing of all colleagues.

Person specification  

Essential  

• Has held a senior role in a cultural venue or within an organisation with a substantial arts programme or partnerships; is well networked in and beyond the cultural and creative industries. 

• Understanding of the current landscape and eco-system in the cultural sector and awareness of local/national political initiatives that will impact on - and create opportunities for - Dance City and its partner organisations.

• Understanding of the legal, fiscal, social and political context within which the arts operate, and the contribution they make to health, education, social cohesion and civic pride.

• Understanding of the needs of dance as an art form and a commitment to best practice and to promoting inclusion and equality of opportunity.

• An inclusive leader with experience of overseeing organisational transformation and managing change. 

• A track record in relationship building, working in partnership with a range of funders, agencies and organisations, and of successful fundraising and income generation from a range of sources. 

• A strong advocate and compelling storyteller, able to network, represent the organisation, communicate its vision and inspire confidence among existing and potential peers and stakeholders.

• Strong financial literacy and skills, knowledge of charity governance and relevant financial policies and procedures; experience of senior financial accountability.

• Experience of working effectively with a Board of Directors, understanding of best practice in governance and organisational development.

• A commitment to living in the region, able to travel nationally and internationally, and to work some evenings and weekends where there is reasonable expectation to attend events.

Desirable 

• Experience of running a building with a diverse and impactful arts programme. 

• An extensive network in the cultural sector. 

• Experience of significant national/international cultural partnership projects. 

• Experience of managing significant public investment programmes such as ACE NPO, Creative Scotland RFO or equivalent.

Equity, diversity and inclusion 

At Dance City we believe that voices and perspectives from a range of backgrounds and lived experiences make our understanding of the world and the arts more relevant.

We believe that difference is our strength.

Therefore we actively encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and those that are under-represented in our city and region and in dance leadership.