Communication director jobs

We are looking for an experienced People Manager to work within a senior leadership role within HILS, responsible for the effective day-to-day delivery of HILS' People Strategy across teh organisation, and ensuring HILS' people practices support safe, ethical, service delivery in environments supporting vulnerable adults.

Reporting to the Director of People, the People Manager leads the People Team and acts as the primary operational adviser to leaders and managers on all people-related matters, ensuring consistent, legally compliant, and values-led people practices across all HILS locations.

The People Manager translates people strategy into operational delivery, provides authoritative leadership on employee relations and workforce matters, and ensures that people systems, processes, and behaviours actively support organisational performance, sustainability.

Can you help us?

The Head of Professional Learning & Development is responsible for leading the strategic design, development and continuous evolution of CoSRH’s professional learning and development portfolio, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy, educational quality standards, digital innovation and commercial objectives.

Reporting to the Director of Learning, Product & Innovation, the role plays a critical leadership function in translating strategic priorities into high‑quality, scalable learning products that meet the needs of the sexual and reproductive healthcare workforce in the UK and internationally.

The role:

Learning and development sit at the heart of what the College does and the Head of Professional Learning & Development plays a pivotal role in delivering our existing portfolio of education and training products. Leading a small team of product specialists, you will support the development of the portfolio as well as improve the experience of those undertaking our market-leading training.

You will have a strong background in the provision of learning and development programmes, ideally in the healthcare sector, with demonstrable positive impact on growth and quality. You will have experience of developing and delivering online and face-to-face development products and projects. Ideally, you will also have experience of supporting learners outside the UK. As one of the few medical Colleges with multidisciplinary membership, you will ensure we meet the aspirations and expectations of those across the sexual and reproductive healthcare workforce, ensuring that the products and services, and their delivery, meet their needs and the needs of their patients.

We are looking for someone who takes cross-organisational collaboration seriously, using your excellent communication skills with a wide range of stakeholders, including senior members of the College.

Who we are:

The College of Sexual and Reproductive (CoSRH) is the leader in the field of sexual and reproductive healthcare, and we are the voice for professionals working in this area. As a multi-disciplinary professional membership organisation, we set clinical guidance and standards, provide training and lifelong education, and champion safe and effective sexual and reproductive healthcare across the life course for all. 

Salary: £39,920

Location: London Diocesan House, Causton Street.

Contract type:  3-year fixed term, full-time (35 hours/week)

Closing date: 03 May 2026

Interview date: 11 May 2026

This is a newly created role within the Diocese of London, supporting the Head of Racial Justice Priority in delivering the aims of the Diocese’s Racial Justice strategy. The postholder will sit within the wider racial justice team and contribute to the development and delivery of key programmes.

The role involves managing projects, supporting programme design and working with a range of stakeholders across diocesan, civic and community networks. It will focus on addressing racial disparities and supporting changes in practice and culture across the Diocese.

Job Summary

The Racial Justice Project Manager will support the delivery of the Diocese’s Racial Justice strategy by providing project management and programme support across a range of initiatives. Working with senior colleagues, clergy and partners, the role will help ensure projects are coordinated, delivered effectively and aligned with diocesan priorities.

Job responsibilities

· Support the design and delivery of racial justice programmes and initiatives

· Manage projects, ensuring activities are planned, coordinated and delivered effectively

· Support training and leadership development programmes related to racial justice

· Oversee data collection, analysis and reporting to support programme delivery

· Coordinate engagement activities and partnerships with diocesan teams, schools and community organisations

· Contribute to monitoring and evaluation to support continuous improvement

Please refer to the attached Job Description for the full details on the main responsibilities.

Person Specification

· Understanding of racial justice, anti-racism, equality and inclusion, with relevant experience

· Experience of project management and working across multiple priorities

· Strong communication skills, both written and verbal

· Ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders from different backgrounds

· Ability to handle sensitive issues with professionalism and discretion

· Empathy with the mission and values of the Church of England

· Right to work in the UK

· The person will require a enhanced DBS check

Please refer to the attached Job Description for the full details on Person Specification.

About the London Diocesan Fund

The London Diocesan Fund (LDF) is the employment body that serves and supports the Diocese of London and Church of England. 

The Church of England in London is growing, vibrant and at the heart of communities throughout the capital. At the London Diocesan Fund, we seek to do everything we can to support this mission and growth, using our resources to help our parishes and chaplains to serve over 4 million people.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

The Diocese of London is committed to creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive workforce which represents our context and wider community.

We are aware that those of Global Majority Heritage/United Kingdom Minority Ethnic (GMH/UKME), women, and disabled people are currently under-represented among our clergy and workforce, and we particularly encourage applications from those with the relevant skills and experience that will increase this representation.

Safeguarding

The Diocese of London is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Benefits of working with us

The LDF offers a supportive working environment, opportunity for career development and the following financial benefits:

• Competitive remuneration package
• 27 annual leave days to rise to 30 after 5 years’ service, plus bank holidays
• 15% employer pension contribution and salary sacrifice available
• Death in service benefit x3 of basic gross salary
• Enhanced maternity leave of six months full pay, after 12 months of employment
• Season ticket loans for public transport
• Access to Benenden Health Insurance
• EAP counselling through Health Assured
• Up to £100 for eye test and contribution to spectacles
• Two additional paid days for community volunteering

To apply:

Submit your application and CV online via Pathways. Please refer to the person specification and JD when you’re answering the application questions.

For more details, please see the full Job Description and Person Specification or visit the LDF Careers Page

This is an exciting opportunity to direct our grant awarding as Programmes Director, 37.5 hours per week, based in Cornwall and able to work from CCF’s office in Bodmin at least two days a week.

Salary: £42,000-£45,000 per annum depending on experience

The Programmes Director is a key role within Cornwall Community Foundation (CCF) and is responsible for leading the development and management of CCF’s grant making programmes and measuring our impact.

At the Cornwall Community Foundation, we believe in a positive life in Cornwall for all, free from poverty and social isolation. Our aim is to change people’s lives for the better by helping local communities.

If you have previous knowledge of the voluntary sector, particularly in Cornwall, and are looking for a wide variety of responsibilities working to tight deadlines, we want to hear from you. We offer a friendly environment to work in and you'll be joining a team who really are making a difference in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Please download the application pack from the Cornwall Communitty Foundation website.

To apply for this post please send your CV and covering letter. (Incomplete applications will not be considered). CCF are committed to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion across our funding portfolio and staff team. We particularly welcome applications from people who identify as LGBTQ+, those with disabilities, those from lower socio-economic backgrounds and/or those from racialised communities.

Closing date 11 May 2026.

Job Title: Individual Giving Manager Department: Income Generation and Partnership Development

Reports to: Director of Income Generation and Partnership Development

Hours: Full time, (part time and flexible arrangements considered)

Salary: £30k-£38k (pro-rata if part time and dependent on experience)

Contract: Fixed term for 2 years, potential to extend depending on funding

Location: Largely home based / with occasional visits to the Oxford office. Must be able to attend two all staff meetings in Oxford per annum 

Role purpose:

To develop and deliver an Earthwatch individual giving programme. The role will focus on identifying opportunities to engage supporters, implementing activities to cultivate, solicit, and steward donors, and increasing financial contributions from new and existing supporters. The role will also assist in the delivery of major donor cultivation events alongside senior staff. 

Key deliverables:

Strategy & Income Growth

• Develop and implement a multi-year individual giving strategy, including regular giving, one-off donations and legacy giving

• Set and monitor income and engagement targets, using data insights to refine and improve approaches. 

Campaigns & Appeals

• To project manage multiple appeals delivering accurate campaigns across digital, print, and telephone on time, to inspire and convert supporters, on budget to a high standard and meeting agreed targets.

• To manage the relationship with external fundraising agencies, ensuring they are briefed and provided with the information they need.

• Collaborate with the communications team to ensure campaigns align with brand and messaging guidelines.

• Undertaking all activities in line with best practice standards and processes as set out by the Institute of Fundraising, Fundraising Regulator and any other bodies as prompted by the Director. 

Donor Engagement & Stewardship

• Deliver high-quality donor communications, including impact reports, appeals, and tailored updates.

• Support donor journeys that build loyalty and increase lifetime value through a range of fundraising products

• Attend events as required to meet donors.

Data Management & Reporting

• Ensure all materials produced are accurate and compliant with relevant data protection and gift aid legislation (where applicable).

• Use the database to track donor engagement and manage contact strategies.

• Produce reports and analysis on giving trends, campaign performance, and donor behaviour to inform decision-making.

Collaboration & Support

• Work closely with colleagues across Income Generation, Communications, Programmes, and senior leadership to maximise donor opportunities and engagement.

In undertaking these roles, the postholder should also have regard to: -

• Acting as an ambassador for the work, vision and values of Earthwatch Europe.

• Ensuring continuous development of skills and knowledge required for the post, undergoing training and performance review as required.

• Working within all the policies and procedures of Earthwatch Europe, ensuring compliance with health & safety policies and all legal and contractual obligations associated with the post.

• Collaborating with other Earthwatch teams to ensure effective delivery of partnership programmes.

• Carrying out any other reasonable duties commensurate with the level of responsibility of the post, as requested by the post holders line manager. 

Please find attached the full job description and person specification.

The Director of Performance and Assurance provides leadership to ensure the VCSA has a robust internal infrastructure in alignment with our mission and values.

To include compliance, risk management, assurance, health and safety, performance and impact measurement.

This post also provides leadership to ensure VCSE delivery partners to have required compliance, risk management, assurance, health and safety, performance and impact measurement processes in place.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Performance and Assurance works as part of that team to contribute to strategic planning and ensure that the VCSA is a great place to work where performance, reporting and compliance is strong.

Duties and Responsibilities –  Strategic Leadership

• Lead the development and implementation of a Risk and Performance Strategy that supports the charity’s strategic ambitions and annual operational plan
• Provide expert advice to the Board, Finance and Resource Committee and Leadership Team on risk exposure, compliance, and organisational assurance
• Embed a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Contribute to strategic planning and policy development, ensuring alignment with risk appetite and performance priorities
• To lead performance and assurance support for our network of network VCSE partners where required Line manage the Impact and Insight Manager

AND MORE - Please read the Job Description.

The VCS Alliance

The VCS Alliance is a charity dedicated to transforming health and social care across Bradford District and Craven. To do this, we act as a bridge between the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector and the Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership, channelling investment into the sector, to deliver transformational programmes. These programmes keep people out of front-line and emergency health services and address health inequalities.

We also provide and support Bradford District and Craven’s VCSE sector voice to contribute to system conversations, leading to better outcomes for our diverse communities. To do our work, we support the convening of spaces and organisations for collaborative conversations leading to better outcomes and learning. 

This role is vital to the growth of our charity and represents an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to join our small but dynamic team.

You will work closely with the Director of Fundraising and Events Manager on events, corporate, trusts and foundations, community, and individual fundraising efforts.

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable experience in a fast-paced fundraising environment. 

The successful candidate will be motivated to improve life for autistic people - joining a team that is passionate about delivering impact. They will be a strong advocate for ensuring that all opinions are heard and respected and will have the ability to communicate with people of all backgrounds and with different communication styles and support needs.

Main duties and responsibilities

As Fundraising Officer, you will:

• Develop and maintain positive relationships internally with colleagues and externally with stakeholders, donors, and funders. 
• Create marketing materials, including content for social media and our website. 
• Work with the Director of Fundraising and Events Manager, to deliver a series of high-quality, high-profile fundraising events, including assisting with logistics and supporter engagement. 
• Take initiative to explore new areas of fundraising and contribute to innovation. 
• Own and manage delegated tasks or parts of projects, ensuring successful and timely delivery of work. 
• Provide administrative support to the fundraising team, including sending fundraising packs, processing donations and fulfilling orders from our e-shop. 
• Respond to supporter queries via phone, email, and web with professionalism and empathy. 
• Maintain accurate supporter data in the CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system. 
• Create quarterly Gift Aid claims reports via the CRM system and liaise with the finance team to ensure timely submission to HMRC.
• Prepare thank-you letters, certificates, and merchandise to support fundraisers and events. 
• Manage incoming post for fundraising and donors, process Gift Aid declarations, and maintain stock levels for shop and event materials. 
• Produce monthly reports on income, donor activity, and progress against target. 

Person specification (who are we looking for?)

Essential

Qualifications

• While there are no specific essential qualifications, the successful candidate will need to demonstrate a good standard of numeracy and literacy and proficiency in MS Office Suite.

Experience

• Knowledge of and/or personal interest in autism and current issues relating to autism and community preferences.
• At least one year’s experience in a similar role within a charity or nonprofit organisation.
• Experience in using CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems.
• Track record of managing multiple tasks autonomously and meeting deadlines.
• Experience in building strong relationships, managing expectations and engaging confidently with a range of stakeholders.

Skills

• Organisational and administrative skills, including the ability to manage your own time and multiple priorities to achieve high-quality outcomes.
• Ability to maintain systems for data management and keep accurate records of fundraising activities and donor interactions.
• Confident communicator, able to explain ideas clearly in writing and in conversation.
• A reliable team player who can prioritise work effectively and manage tasks under pressure. 
• Good numeracy skills and the ability to work on simple budgets. 
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to contribute to team discussions and work collaboratively with colleagues.
• Demonstrate an awareness of, and commitment to, inclusion, equality, and diversity.
• A good working knowledge of MS Office 365 and ability and willingness to learn new IT systems (with support/training where needed).

Desirable (please still apply even if you do not have these)

Experience

• Knowledge of data protection and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance for handling donor information. 
• Experience of process mapping and CRM migration projects.
• Experience of digital content creation and donor engagement.
• Experience of remote and/or hybrid working.

Skills

• Able to apply basic marketing skills across different channels, such as emails, social media posts, or printed materials.
• A proactive learner with a passion for exploring new areas of fundraising and developing professionally. 

We are aware that the skills required for this role may be interpreted differently by different people. Our selection process will focus on the desired outcomes, and we are open to different ways of achieving them.

Operations Director

Are you the strategic and collaborative leader who can innovate with and enable the newly formed central operations team to speed reach and community impact while strengthening resilience? 

Location: Redbridge/Hybrid, with flexible working

Salary: FTE £52,000 (£41,600 pro-rata with salary review due in May)

Contract: Part Time 28 hours per week, permanent

Closing date: 24 April 2026

Join a local infrastructure charity dedicated to building a fairer Redbridge where everyone and every community has an equal opportunity to thrive.

Following a review of the current strategy and resources in 2025, the charity has strengthened its resilience and programme impact. We are now seeking Operations Director to bring the operations teams together and ensure their professional skills and knowledge can add value and impact to the mission delivery and team culture.

About the Role

The role calls for a forward-thinking and accomplished Operations Director to drive efficiency, effectiveness, and to embed a culture of shared leadership, continuous learning, and improvement.

Your strategic leadership and operational brief will span central functions of; Finance, Human Resources, Digital Communications, Risk and Compliance.

A pivotal role at the heart of the organisation, you will ensure that operations run smoothly and effectively, aligning systems and processes with strategic goals and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.

You will play an integral role with the CEO, Board of Trustees, partners, and colleagues bringing the vision to life, driving forward strategic priorities, and fostering a working culture where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work.

Personal style is key, you will be a natural collaborator and a strong communicator, able to build trusted relationships with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders alike.

You will lead the team of committed professionals and manage relationships with outsourced specialists, ensuring the support provided strengthens capacity to change, grow and deliver impact for communities.

What you will bring

• Significant experience in a senior operations or leadership role working across multiple disciplines
• Experience in several of the operational areas listed, with a proven ability to apply best practise solutions and to quickly pick up new skills
• Able to lead multiple operational functions, to prioritise, make best use of resources, and ensure they are aligned with our mission and strategic priorities. Experience managing outsourced functions, an advantage.
• Rigorous problem solver and accomplished in data-driven decision-making, evidence and insight based to drive innovation, and operational excellence.
• Track record of embedding organisational change and able to inspire, influence, and bring others on the journey
• Proven ability to identify improvements in organisational systems and processes, with a focus on innovation, efficiency, and impact
• Excellent organisational, prioritising and time management skills
• Fluency with digital systems including Microsoft 365
• Excellent communication, influencing and engagement skills
• Strategic and inclusive leadership skills able to build teams and develop culture
• A ‘can do’ proactive approach, able to work creatively and with impact in resource limited environments
• Resilience, change readiness, self-awareness and a commitment to learning for yourself and your team

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

What’s on offer

• A competitive salary (reviewed in May each year)
• 28 hours per week (can be over 4 or 5 days)
• Flexible working with 3 days per week in the office
• 25.5 days leave, full time equivalent 28 days (plus statutory holidays)
• Workplace pension
• Access to a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme

Shortlisting interviews will take place shortly after by Teams and shortlisted candidates will have an interview on May 6th, 7th or 12th, 2026.

We believe in being inclusive and giving everyone an equal chance to succeed. Applications are welcome from all regardless of age, sex, gender identity, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, race, sexual orientation, transgender status or social economic background. #INDNFP

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People. 

We are seeking an experienced and driven Director of Programmes & Impact with essential third sector experience to lead and shape our global programme function.
This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for ensuring that all funds raised are translated into effective delivery on the ground, supported by strong oversight, clear data, and credible impact.
You will own the full lifecycle of programme delivery — from partner management and implementation through to compliance oversight, data capture, and donor reporting. You will also play a key role in building the systems, processes, and structures that enable impact to be delivered and evidenced consistently as the organisation grows.
This role offers a high level of ownership and influence, with the opportunity to shape how The Zahra Trust delivers, measures, and communicates impact globally.

Following the growth of the Income Generation team Severn Hospice is expanding.

At Severn Hospice, we provide specialist care and support to people living with incurable illness from across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Mid Wales. We are looking for a motivated, empathetic and personable Legacy Fundraiser to help support our future care through legacy giving.

Legacies are a major income stream, and with your influential and intuitive approach you will play a pivotal role in managing, developing and maximising our legacy portfolio.

Just like our care, our relationships with supporters are individual and with your excellent interpersonal skills and sensitive manner, you will focus on building warm, meaningful relationships with supporters, creating positive experiences at every touchpoint and inspiring people to consider leaving a gift in their will. You will nurture existing legacy supporters, grow new audiences and contribute to engaging campaigns, events and community partnerships that promote legacy giving. Progress towards objectives will be regularly reviewed through key performance indicators (KPIs), ensuring that targets around supporter engagement, outreach activities, and campaign effectiveness are met and exceeded where possible and our future goals are achieved.

You will also develop links with local solicitors, funeral directors and other community partners to raise awareness of our care and the impact legacies can make. Part of your objectives will include expanding these professional networks and tracking partnership outcomes as a key indicator of success.

If you have excellent communication and organisational skills, the ability to balance sensitivity with ambition and a passion supporting a local cause we’d love you to get in touch. Working towards defined objectives and KPIs, you’ll play a fundamental role in supporting our future care and helping us to achieve long-term sustainability.

“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.

Director of Fundraising - Back Up : London office / hybrid (2 days per week)

Salary: £72,000 - £80,000 per annum : Full time, permanent

Closing Date: Wednesday 13th May

Charity People is delighted to be partnering with Back Up, a national charity supporting people affected by spinal cord injury, to recruit their new Director of Fundraising.

This is a pivotal, senior leadership role at an exciting point in Back Up's journey. With income at £3.6m and plans to reach £5m by 2030, the Director of Fundraising will play a critical role in shaping strategy, driving sustainable growth and further developing Back Up's high-performing, values-led fundraising function.

About Back Up

Founded in 1986, Back Up exists to ensure that no one faces spinal cord injury alone. Every two hours, someone in the UK sustains a spinal cord injury. Back Up provides life-changing services including mentoring, wheelchair skills training, family support, residential courses and return to work. Their Limitless Ambition strategy (2025-2030) sets out bold plans to expand reach, deepen impact and strengthen the organisation for the future.

The role

• Salary: £72,000 - £80,000 per annum
• Full-time, permanent role
• Generous annual leave and pension
• Strong commitment to flexible working and inclusion
• Disability Confident Leader (Level 3) employer
• Hybrid working, 2 office days per week (Wandsworth, South London)

As Director of Fundraising, you will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, reporting to the CEO and leading income growth across a broad and diversified fundraising portfolio. You will:

• Lead delivery of Back Up's 2025-2030 fundraising strategy, growing income from £3.6m to £5m+
• Provide inspiring leadership to senior fundraising leaders and teams
• Strengthen fundraising systems, performance frameworks and governance
• Build strong relationships with trustees, the Fundraising Development Board, major donors, corporates, trusts and foundations
• Champion ethical, values-led and inclusive fundraising practice
• Use insight, data and innovation (including responsible use of new technologies) to improve performance and decision-making

This is a role for a strategic, credible leader who enjoys translating ambition into income and impact.

About you

You will bring a strong track record of leading and delivering significant fundraising growth, alongside:

• Senior leadership experience within fundraising
• Expertise across high-value income streams (corporate partnerships, major gifts, trusts/foundations,)
• Experience working with boards, senior volunteers and high-level stakeholders
• Strong strategic thinking, commercial acumen, financial awareness and communication skills
• A leadership style that is collaborative, values-driven and inclusive
• Alignment with Back Up's values and mission

Experience in health, disability or adjacent sectors is welcome, but not essential.

Location

Hybrid working, with offices based in Wandsworth, South London.

How to apply

To request a full application pack, please submit an application with your updated CV.

Key dates

• Closing date: Wednesday 13th May
• Invitations to interview: 18th May
• First stage interviews (online): 26th May
• Second stage interviews (in person): 2nd June

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

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. 

At Ambitious about Autism, we are looking for a Programme Director – Service Development to join our team. You'll develop Ambitious about Autism's and the Trust's education and care services for autistic children and young people.

You'll lead on key strategic projects to extend existing or develop new education and care services for autistic children and young people, providing strong project leadership, strategic integration and managing project-related governance. You'll identify and pursue new business opportunities to drive growth and expansion of our educational settings, including school bids.

You'll be involved in new service development, conducting thorough assessment to identify gaps and opportunities for new provisions or products, whilst developing innovative concepts for new services and seeking approval through business cases. You'll also provide leadership to the Service Development team, with line management of 3 direct reports, whilst upholding Ambitious about Autism's core values.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Extensive business development and project planning knowledge
• Working knowledge of the education, health or social care of children/young people with SEND
• Working knowledge of: The social, policy, regulatory issues affecting children and young people with special educational needs or Commissioning and service delivery for children, young people and their families
• Proven experience of leading the development and delivery of new services for children, young people and/or adults with special educational needs or disabilities either from a third sector, educational, health or local authority background
• Experience of developing strategic and business plans

In return, we offer great benefits including a generous holiday allowance and commitment to continued professional development (CPD), flexible, hybrid working and more!

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious individual who would like to work for a forward-thinking, open and honest organisation and make a real impact to the young people we work with. Please find our full recruitment pack on the link below.

If you have any questions about the role or would like to have a confidential chat, please contact James Axford, Recruitment Officer.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.