Development research officer jobs

Youth Realities is a small but mighty charity in North London looking for a new female leader to embed the strategy and support our next phase of growth and development. 

Our vision is a world where young people live free from relationship abuse and violence. We believe strongly in prevention, using creativity and forming trusted relationships to engage and empower young people to form positive change in their own lives and wider communities. 

Everything we do is ‘youth-led’ and ‘survivor-centred’ which means we centre the needs and experiences of young people and survivors, providing regular opportunities for them to feedback, co-produce and lead on the delivery, design and development of the charity. 

Our values, embedded in the heart of our work are: youth-led, survivor-centred, safe, equitable and audacious. 

Youth Realities works with young people aged 11 - 25 who have or are at risk of relationship abuse. We offer independent domestic violence advocacy for young females, provide a safe space with a program of dance and creative activities and go into schools delivering workshops on healthy relationships. 

Key Objectives of the job:

• Provide strategic vision and leadership further developing and embedding the organisations strategy 

• Ensure that the charitable purposes of the organisation are followed and that It delivers the charitable benefit set out in Youth Realities’ vision and governing documents

• To take overall responsibility for Youth Realities’ management and administration within the governance and accountability frameworks established by the Board of Trustees

• To secure funding and drive the organisation forward ensuring it is sustainable and able to grow 

Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Implementation

Partner with the CEO to translate IMO’s strategic plan into a clear organisational roadmap with defined milestones, priorities and success measures. You will work collaboratively with the CEO to agree the order in which elements of the strategy should be prioritised, before turning this into the roadmap, milestones and delivery framework.

Work with the CEO and trustees to:

• Define strategic workstreams
• Establish measurable organisational KPIs
• Identify capability gaps and development needs
• Develop a structured strategy implementation framework that enables effective delivery across the organisation

Operating Model Design

Partner with the CEO to co-design IMO’s future operating model. This is a collaborative process, you will work closely with the CEO from the outset to shape the vision, ensuring the model reflects organisational priorities and is set up for successful implementation.

This will include:

• Programme structure and service architecture
• Governance and decision-making frameworks
• Internal processes and ways of working
• Data, reporting and impact measurement systems
• Team structures and capability requirements

Ensure the model supports sustainable growth, stronger partnerships and improved impact outcomes.

Business Planning and Financial Modelling

Develop a clear strategic business case underpinning the new strategy. This will include:

• Financial projections
• Income pipeline modelling
• Investment requirements
• Scenario planning for growth and risk

Provide analysis and recommendations to support board-level decision making.

Programme & Transformation Management

Act as programme lead for key strategic initiatives, including:

• Scaling of youth employability programmes
• Strengthening organisational infrastructure
• Development of a standalone mental health service

Develop and manage a comprehensive implementation plan, ensuring:

• Clear timelines
• Resource alignment
• Risk management
• Delivery accountability

Maintain a live transformation risk register and ensure issues are addressed proactively.

Stakeholder Engagement & Organisational Change

Work closely with the CEO to support organisational alignment around the new strategy. Responsibilities include:

• Facilitating internal workshops and planning sessions
• Supporting senior staff to translate strategy into operational delivery
• Communicating progress to trustees and key partners
• Managing organisational change and maintaining momentum

Act as a trusted advisor and sounding board to the CEO throughout the transformation process.

Qualifications 

Formal project management qualification (PRINCE2, Agile or equivalent) - Desirable

Experience 

Proven experience leading strategy implementation, organisational transformation or operating model design - Essential

Experience working in growing or evolving organisations where structures, systems or programmes needed to be developed or scaled - Essential

Demonstrated success managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders and limited resources - Essential

Experience developing business cases, strategic plans or financial models to support organisational decision making - Essential

Strong track record of delivering initiatives from concept through to implementation - Essential

Experience working in the charity, social enterprise or public sector environment - Desirable

Experience working closely with CEOs, boards or senior leadership teams - Desirable

Understanding of youth services, employability, public health or community development sectors - Desirable

Skills/Attributes

Ability to translate high-level strategy into practical operational delivery - Essential

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills - Essential

Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels - Essential

Highly organised and able to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously - Essential

Comfortable operating with high levels of autonomy and responsibility - Essential

A pragmatic, solutions-focused mindset - Essential

Sight Scotland is Scotland’s leading charity providing specialist care, education and research for people with vision impairment. The charity has been in existence for over 230 years, and offer a variety of services in the community as well as education, transcription into alternative formats and residential care for adults and children. Their vision is of an inclusive Scotland where people of all visual abilities have the opportunity to thrive. To achieve their mission they are looking for a Fundraising Manager focused on trusts and grants who will cultivate a pipeline of opportunities and ensure an excellent funder experience, to provide Sight Scotland with sustainable income.  

The Trusts and Grants Fundraiser is a new role brought in to support with this growing income stream. This is an initial 2 year fixed term contract with the potential to become a permanent position.

The fundraiser will work beneath and with the Fundraising Manager – Trusts to develop trust income. Specifically the post holder will manage the small trust portfolio, support with reporting on KPIs and impact, create engaging cases for support, and support the Manager with various tasks, freeing them up to develop larger, strategic bids.

This role would suit someone who has experience of trusts and grants, either at an officer or fundraiser level, who can demonstrate experience of developing a trust and grants pipeline, creating compelling applications and directly delivering income success.

Application notes

Please download the Candidate Info Pack provided for further information about the role, timelines and next steps.

To progress your application, please contact THINK Recruitment using the details within the Candidate Pack to organise an informal screening call. Please note, we cannot shortlist candidates who have not had a screening call so please allow enough time to have a call before the closing date.

If you need assistance with downloading the pack, please contact the THINK Recruitment team for support.

Closing date for applications: Midnight Tuesday 19th May 2026

Interviews are expected to be held on Thursday 28th May 2026

The Senior Fundraising Executive (Grants) leads on bid-writing and relationship building with grantmakers (Trusts/Foundations/Public). The candidate will be a key player in the Grants team alongside the Director of Development (Grants/Major Gifts) and Development Officer. Create has seen its fundraising increase significantly in recent years, as it fulfils its ambitious plans to double its reach by its 25th anniversary in 2028. The Grants team is responsible for securing over 50% of the charity’s income, managing an extensive portfolio of T/F/Public funders, approaching a well-researched pipeline of potential funders, and researching prospects. The successful candidate will share Create’s commitment to the transformative power of the creative arts within community settings, with exceptional written and verbal communication, research, organisational and IT skills, and meticulous attention to detail.

The Fellowship and Administration Officer is the main point of contact for Society Fellows, applicants and general enquiries. They administer and update records in the Society’s CRM database and undertake financial and general office administration. They also support the delivery of the Society’s annual programme of in-person, online and hybrid events.

Main Responsibilities

• Acts as the main point of contact for Society Fellows, prospective Fellows and general enquiries by telephone, email, letters and in person
• Assists with application, Fellowship and subscription queries and Fellowship applications and sends welcome packs to new Fellows
• Administers and updates database records and provides reports from the database (for example, mailing lists for sending biannual newsletters and other printed items to Fellows)
• Assists the Finance Manager with financial administration relating to Fellowship, including standing orders, credit notes, direct debits and Gift Aid, renewals and various mailings
• Assists Fellows with website login access and event bookings
• Monitors the Society’s main email inboxes, responding to queries or forwarding to other colleagues as appropriate
• Produces the monthly Fellows e-newsletter and additional e-mailings as required
• Undertakes general office administration, including meeting room bookings, booking accommodation for Trustees, printing meeting papers and mailings
• Supports with the operational delivery of Society events, including Eventbrite and survey-related tasks for Fellows-only events, liaising with speakers, arranging travel and accommodation, uploading recordings of Fellows-only events to YouTube, and attending and helping at events as required
• Contributes to internal quarterly reports
• Processes and posts merchandise orders

Join Age UK Kensington and Chelsea at an exciting moment of growth as our new Fundraising Officer, where you’ll bring energy, creativity and initiative to a small team with big ambitions.

This is a varied and hands-on role within a small team. You will be confident building relationships with donors and supporters, supporting events and writing clear, persuasive fundraising content. You may already have experience across more than one fundraising area and will be keen to build your skills further in a broad fundraising role.

About us

We’re a vibrant, values-led local charity and proud partner of the Age UK network. Every day, we work alongside older people to design and deliver services that promote wellbeing, independence and dignity. From supporting people to manage their health, to tackling loneliness and influencing local policy, we put people and communities at the heart of everything we do.
As we look to the future, we’re focused on innovation, growth and lasting impact — building stronger partnerships, diversifying our income, and creating new ways to reach more people across our borough.

Take a look at the full job / person spec enclosed for a full breakdown of the role and responsibilities.

We will be interviewing on a rolling basis, so please avoid waiting until the advert closes before applying! We reserve the right to close the advert earlier than advertised.
Due to capacity we may not be able to respond to unsuccessful applications received. 

We look forward to hearing from you!

Worcester Students' Union 

Chief Executive Officer 

Salary: £62,000 - £64,000 per annum 

Working Pattern: Full-time

Location: Worcester

Contract: Permanent 

Atkinson HR is pleased to be supporting Worcester Students' Union in the recruitment of their next Chief Executive Officer. 

Worcester Students' Union (WSU) exists to represent, support, and enrich the lives of students at the University of Worcester. As a charity, everything they do is guided by a commitment to members, ensuring they have a voice, access to outstanding services, and a community they are proud to be part of. 

This is a genuinely exciting moment for the organisation. WSU has a fantastic opportunity to reshape its strategy and culture, supported by a dedicated and talented staff and officer team, and is determined to deepen its reach across a diverse student body, strengthen partnerships, and build on the energy and momentum that defines life at Worcester. 

About the Role 

As CEO, you'll provide overall leadership and management of WSU, taking responsibility for delivering its charitable objectives and ensuring excellent services for students. You will develop a sustainable, strategically focused organisation that is ready to meet the opportunities and challenges ahead. 

Working in close partnership with elected student leaders and the Board of Trustees, you will bring professional expertise to support governance, operational delivery, and long-term planning. You will lead a committed staff team, model the values of the organisation, and ensure that WSU continues to grow in reach, relevance, and impact across the student community. 

About You 

WSU are looking for a strategic and inspirational leader with significant senior leadership experience in a complex organisation, and a demonstrable track record of developing and delivering successful organisational strategy. You'll be financially and commercially astute, able to interpret data to inform sound decisions, and experienced in working constructively with Boards and senior external stakeholders. Experience within the higher education, students' union, charity, or membership sectors is desirable, though not essential. 

You'll be an empowering and energetic leader, someone who builds inclusive, high-performing teams, encourages creativity, and is willing to engage with operational delivery as well as strategic direction. You'll bring the ability to balance challenge and support, fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability across the organisation. 

Above all, WSU are looking for someone with a genuine commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and a real passion for working in a democratic, student-led environment. You'll believe in the importance of student voice, be able to communicate a compelling shared vision to a wide range of stakeholders, and demonstrate a lasting commitment to WSU's charitable objectives and long-term development. 

How to Apply 

Please click 'Apply' to be redirected to the Atkinson HR website, where you can download the Candidate Information Pack and find details of how to apply. 

For an informal conversation about the role and application process, please contact Atkinson HR via. the information in the candidate pack. 

Key Dates 

Closing date: Midday, Tuesday 5th May 2026 

Longlist Interviews (Remote): Tuesday 26th May 2026 

Final Stage Interviews (In-person, Worcester): Monday 1st June 2026 

Programme Support & Knowledge Director

Contract: Permanent, Full Time

Location: The role can be based in the London, United Kingdom, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya and Rwanda, subject to right to work eligibility in the respective countries.

UK hybrid working – a minimum of 40 % of working time is spent face-to-face (London office, external meetings or travel). 60/40 hybrid working at WaterAid means roughly three days wherever you work best and two days together in person.

Salary: Salaries and benefits will vary in line with the location of the successful candidate and depending on experience.

UK: £81,510 per year with excellent benefits.

Other Countries: Competitive with excellent benefits.

*We offer competitive, market-aligned starting salaries. While most roles are offered at the advertised starting salary, we may adjust this in exceptional cases depending on a candidate’s experience, skills, and potential.

Change starts with water. Change starts with you.

Every day, millions of people live without clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid exists to change that – for everyone, everywhere. Join us, and your energy will help unlock people’s potential and create a fairer future.

About WaterAid

We’re a global federation driven by one vision: a world where everyone, everywhere has clean water, sanitation and hygiene by 2030. Powered by our values of Respect, Accountability, Courage, Collaboration, Integrity and Innovation, we work alongside communities, partners and supporters to make change happen.

About the team

The Programme Support & Knowledge (PSK) team is a critical and dynamic unit within WaterAid UK’s International Programmes Department (IPD), working across 17 countries in Africa and Asia. PSK is a diverse and motivated group of over 20 technical specialists and advisors committed to bringing sustainable WASH to the world’s poorest and most marginalised people.

About the role

As our Programme Support and Knowledge Director, you will play a key role in delivering our mission by providing strategic leadership to the PSK team and the wider IPD, as part of the department’s SMT. You will also input into organisation-wide initiatives, external collaborations and global networks to drive sustainable change.

In this role, you will:

• Provide strategic and technical leadership to WaterAid UK’s programmes
• Lead the Programme Support & Knowledge Team
• Lead programme learning and knowledge management
• Oversee programme support and capacity development
• Support fundraising, external engagement, partnerships and communications
• Champion WaterAid’s commitment to equity, inclusion and safeguarding.

Requirements

To be successful, you will need:

• Extensive and deep experience in WASH development across multiple contexts
• Strong technical WASH skills – e.g. sustainable rural and /or urban water supply service delivery and management, climate resilient WASH, 
• Systems-thinking capability to support transformational WASH programming
• Proven ability to lead strategic, impactful initiatives in large organisations
• Strong understanding of planning, monitoring and evaluation in development
• Experience in knowledge management, learning and capacity development
• Proven experience of developing propositions and donor engagement and
• A track record of leading high-performing teams and supporting change

Although not essential, we’d prefer you to have:

• Working knowledge of French, Portuguese or Spanish
• Experience leading or managing applied research
• Experience establishing and promoting technical standards.

Closing date: Applications close 12:00 PM UK time on 11 May 2026. Shortlisting and Interviews may be scheduled on a rolling basis, and the role may close earlier if a suitable candidate is found. Therefore, we encourage you to apply at an early stage.

How to apply: Click Apply to complete the pre-screening questions and upload your CV and cover letter.

Can I use Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in my application?

At WaterAid, we strongly advise against using AI technology at any stage of the recruitment process. Our goal is to ensure a fair and transparent process that provides every applicant with an equal opportunity to succeed. We value hearing about your unique experiences and perspectives in your application, and, if shortlisted, during the interview as well.

Pre‑employment screening

To apply for this role, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the respective country. All pre-employment checks will be carried out according to local law and WaterAid’s Safer Recruitment policy. All UK based roles require a basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Benefits

As a global organisation, WaterAid is committed to creating an environment where you can thrive and be yourself at your very best. Alongside our inspiring mission and meaningful work, we offer a range of benefits tailored to each country’s context and policies. These will be shared during the process

Our Global Commitment:

Our people promise

We will work with passion and focus to make sure everyone everywhere has clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid is a place of purpose – where people have a real commitment and shared responsibility for the impact we have. We are a global community with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, motivated by inspiring, stimulating work. We are determined to be a place where people feel safe and able to contribute their voice and truly live our values.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions, ways of life and status. This includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, caste, colour, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, disability status, neurodiversity, age, marital and family status, sexual orientation and gender identity, health status, place of residence, economic and social situation.

Safeguarding

We are committed to protecting everyone we come into contact with. We have a zero- tolerance approach to abuse of power, privilege or trust across our global work, and to any form of inappropriate behaviour, discrimination, abuse, bullying, harassment, or exploitation. Safeguarding the people and communities we work with, our staff, volunteers and anyone working on our behalf is our top priority, and we take our responsibilities extremely seriously. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks (which can include counterterrorism, safeguarding and criminal records checks).

Together, we’ll change the world through water.

Join us and be part of the change !

Who we are:

Hope is here. The Global Returns Project (GRP) is a UK charity unlocking new philanthropy to deliver urgent solutions for our planet.

We are a fast-moving nonprofit that makes donations to high-impact nature and climate charities simple – and we don’t take any fees. We’ve already mobilised over £3 million for top environmental solutions and are working to unlock at least £30 million annually by the end of the decade.

We are growing quickly: Last year's annual fundraising was 275% higher than the previous year.

The problem: Charities protecting our planet can turn the tide on climate change and nature loss. They have the skills, strategies and networks to deliver fast and global impact. But less than 2% of philanthropy goes to climate mitigation.

Our solution: In the UK alone, around £2 trillion sits with “HNW+” individuals – those holding between £100k and £30 million. Yet traditional philanthropy largely overlooks them. We’re unlocking this funding by offering trusted, pro bono advice and a simple, portfolio approach to giving. Our expertise in UK wealth advice offers a unique path to scalability and systems-change.

What we are looking for:

Job Title: Senior Philanthropy Officer

We’re looking for a confident, capable fundraiser to play a key role in major-gift fundraising – helping to secure transformational support from high-net-worth individuals.

You’ll manage your own portfolio of prospects and donors, contributing across the full fundraising cycle: prospecting, cultivation, making direct asks, closing and stewardship. Alongside this, you’ll support the development of relationships with wealth advisers to generate referral leads, while also prospecting independently for major gifts.

The ideal candidate will be excited to build networks of wealth managers, private-client teams and other advisers to HNWIs, and to convert adviser introductions into committed support. You’ll complement this with proactive outreach to identify and engage new major donors beyond existing referral channels.

To succeed, you’ll develop strong fluency across three distinct fundraising pitches: a business case for advisers; an impact case to persuade donors to support our portfolio charities; and a systems-change case to win backing for GRP’s operating costs (salaries, office costs, etc) to keep the charity running fee-free.

You’ll be comfortable making direct asks for funding, ideally with experience of securing significant gifts or multi-year commitments. You’ll be hands-on in day-to-day fundraising activity and able to manage multiple relationships and priorities effectively.

You’ll thrive in a small, fast-moving team—taking initiative, being collaborative, and contributing to shared goals. Crucially, you’ll care deeply about climate and nature.

Experience required:

Strong experience in frontline fundraising (as a guide, likely 3-6 years).

Please see the full job description attached for information on skills required and main duties and responsibilities.

Location: Centrally located, light and airy office on Regent Street, London. Estimated two days per week in the office. 

Benefits: 20 days’ annual leave (pro-rata), plus statutory bank holidays (pro-rata). Occasional 1–2 days’ additional paid leave over Christmas period. Flexible working.

Reports to: CEO

Preferred start date: Monday 29th June 2026. Applications reviewed on rolling basis.

Fundraising Officer

We are seeking a proactive and strategic fundraiser to drive income growth and build lasting partnerships for the UK’s National trails.

Position: Fundraising Officer
Salary: £32,000 per annum
Location: Remote with occasional UK travel
Hours: Full time
Contract: 2 year fixed term contract
Closing Date: 22 May 2026 (midnight)
Interview Date: 29 May 2026 (online, with second stage if required)

About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in delivering a fundraising strategy focused on trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships and community engagement.

Working within a small, collaborative team, you will take ownership of funding applications and relationships, helping to grow income and shape the future of the organisation’s development function.

Key responsibilities include:

· Developing and growing the grants portfolio through research and networking

· Writing and submitting high quality funding applications for both core and project funding

· Building and managing relationships with corporate partners and sponsors

· Identifying and securing new partnership opportunities

· Supporting the development of individual giving, including regular giving and legacies

· Managing donor stewardship and maintaining strong relationships

· Engaging with members and supporting their fundraising activity where required

· Maintaining and developing the fundraising CRM database

· Keeping up to date with sector trends and opportunities

About You
You will be a confident, self-motivated fundraiser with a strong track record of securing income and building meaningful relationships.

You will have:

· Experience of trust and grant fundraising, including successful bid writing

· Experience developing and managing corporate partnerships

· Strong networking and relationship building skills

· Experience using charity CRM systems

· The ability to manage your own workload and work proactively

· A collaborative approach and ability to work within a small team

It would also be beneficial if you have:

· Knowledge of membership or infrastructure organisations

· An interest in outdoor access, heritage, or environmental sectors

· Experience working remotely and managing your own schedule

About the Organisation
The charity is the independent champion of the UK’s National Trails – iconic long-distance walking, cycling and riding routes. Connecting people to nature and the outdoors while advocating for accessible, sustainable trail experiences. Since their formation in 2021, they’ve grown quickly with an ambitious vision for a high quality, nature-rich National Trail network used and valued by all.

Other roles you may have experience of could include; Fundraising Executive, Development Officer, Trusts and Grants Officer, Partnerships Officer, Corporate Partnerships Executive, Income Generation Officer

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

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.

Employment Type: Full time
Location: Remote · Multiple locationsIreland · UK
Salary: £62,000 - £72,000 (GBP)25 days holiday plus other benefits.
Seniority: Senior
Closing date: 9:00am, 4th May

About GLAN

GLAN is an independent non-profit organisation made up of lawyers, investigators and campaigners. We pursue legal action against powerful actors involved in serious human rights violations and environmental harms, working across borders with international and local grassroots organisations. 

Our vision is justice across borders.

We are a fully remote team - our committed colleagues are spread across multiple countries, and we have offices in Ireland and the UK.

We currently work across three key focus areas: 

• Accountability for Atrocity Crimes
• Environment and Climate Litigation
• Abuses in Value Chains

About the role

The Chief Operating Officer at GLAN will play a crucial role in steering the team in the successful implementation of the charity’s organisational strategy, and will be responsible for ensuring the day-to-day smooth running of the organisation – in order to build a sustainable, compliant, resilient and well-governed organisation.

The ideal candidate

We are looking for an experienced leader with a proven track-record of delivering financial oversight and overseeing complex budgets and projects to completion in a fast-paced environment. We are looking for someone who possesses excellent people skills, who is emotionally intelligent and can guide a dynamic team remotely.

The Chief Operating Officer will be responsible for the delivery of core services and will manage a core team of staff to deliver Finance, HR, Fundraising, Communications and Governance.

The ideal candidate will have demonstrable experience in a similar role, with in depth understanding of how charitable, purpose driven organisations operate. You must have excellent leadership skills, a solid grasp of data analysis and performance metrics, financial planning and budgeting skills, and an advanced understanding of business planning, budget and project management.

Key Responsibilities

Senior Leadership

• Lead the Senior Leadership team in the implementation of our revised organisational strategy 2027-2030.
• Ensure organisation-wide financial oversight and operational business planning.
• Provide guidance and support to GLAN’s team.
• Deputise for the CEO when necessary and take ownership of high-level decision-making.

Operational oversight

• Maintain operational oversight so that legal, advocacy, funding and finance align with GLAN’s organisational strategy.
• Oversee and facilitate the flow of information between the legal and operational teams so that our legal case works aligns with finances, commitments to funders, team capacity, and communications plans.
• Ensure that systems enable on-going monitoring of expenditure so that fundraising and finance are aware of gaps/underspends.
• Help ensure cases/teams are sufficiently resourced in terms of staff capacity.
• Ensure joined up working, and provide strategic guidance when challenges arise.

People and culture

• Provide strong leadership to ensure a professional and healthy working culture.
• Build on GLAN’s existing commitments to a working culture that is in line with our values, overseeing team-wide consistency to HR line-management, 1:1’s, annual 360 reviews and performance.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and staff development and staff feedback.
• Ensure policies on anti-racism, equality, diversity, inclusion and wellbeing are embedded in how we work.
• Support the embedding of GLAN’s values across GLAN’s work.
• Oversee relationship and dialogue between GLAN’s SLT and Trade Union representatives.

Governance and Board relationships

• Lead on ensuring that GLAN is compliant with our legal, regulatory, health & safety, data protection / GDPR and employment law obligations.
• Ensure we have all necessary policies in place and take the lead on coordinating the establishment and review of existing and further policies. Oversee the regular review of GLAN’s risk management frameworks and our risk register.
• Oversee GLAN’s governance structures (internal reporting, Board meetings etc.), ensuring decisions are well informed and documented.

Financial oversight

• Oversee financial operations: budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, expenditure controls, financial reporting, payroll.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards, audit requirements and donor / funder financial reporting obligations.
• Manage relationships with external accountants, auditors, banks, and financial service providers.
• Ensure best practices are followed and financial risk is identified and managed appropriately.

Operations

• Ensure the smooth running of IT, data protection, office management. Managing relationships with our external providers.

Person Specification

Essential

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in senior leadership roles, delivering successful organisational financial oversight- with expertise in business planning and complex project management.
• Demonstrable experience of high-level budgeting, forecasting, auditing, proven accountability for ensuring financial sustainability and compliance.
• Minimum of 10 year’s line management experience.
• Excellent strategic thinking and planning skills, able to bridge between high-level strategy and operational detail.
• Sound judgement, risk-management and governance experience; familiarity with compliance, data protection / GDPR, employment law etc.
• Exceptionally organised and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to present complex operational, financial or legal information clearly.
• Strong collaborative approach, ability to work across teams, offer guidance to other senior level staff, and clear people management skills.
• Expertise in ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, policies, and procedures, particularly in the charity sector.
• Understanding of UK charity law and governance, including experience with Board of Trustees.
• Aptitude in decision making and problem solving, and confidence in providing guidance to boards and CEO.
• Warm, people-centred and positive approach.
• Emotionally intelligent, able to self-reflect, be honest and conduct open conversations with sensitivity.
• Solution-orientated, able to anticipate and resolve challenges.
• Strong alignment with GLAN’s values and our mission.
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and committed to GLAN’s ongoing anti-racist learning and practice.
• Commitment to developing an organisational culture in which our team thrives and we can achieve meaningful impact in our work.
• Ability to handle difficult situations and handle confidential information.
• Ability to balance GLAN’s operational priorities with our values.

Desirable

• Experience of operating in non-profit / mission-driven / legal organisations.
• Previous experience working in a human rights or environmental protection focussed setting.
• Legal or compliance experience.
• Experience of change management and scaling teams or systems.
• Experience of hybrid / remote team leadership .
• Experience of supporting culture building.
• Experience of working to decolonial commitments.
• Experience of delivering organisational change programmes.
• Legal or compliance experience.
• Experience of change management and scaling teams or systems.
• Experience of hybrid / remote team leadership 
• Commitment to equity, learning and continuous improvement.
• Knowledge of HR practices and employment law.
• Fundraising experience.
• Accountancy qualification, Leadership or management qualifications, Project management qualifications e.g. Prince2

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

We particularly welcome applications from candidates with lived experience of the issues that GLAN works on. We strongly encourage applications from disabled candidates, older candidates, and Black and racially minoritised candidates, who are currently underrepresented in our organisation. We use an anonymised recruitment process to ensure fairness. Each applicant will be individually assessed against the essential criteria regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or belief. We will use positive action on the basis of race and/or disability in case of a tie break situation.

Our values

Decolonial - We are committed to building decolonial, anti-racist, and anti-oppressive approaches at GLAN.

Collective Power - We believe lasting change is built through collective action and power sharing. 

Responsive - Working across interconnected global systems that are ever in flux, we aim to be adaptable, nimble and responsive to make the biggest impact we can. 

Steadfast - We know the kind of change we want to see won’t happen overnight, that’s why we strongly value patience and persistence. 

Self-Reflective - We recognise the power and privilege we hold as an organization. We’re committed to fostering a culture of honesty, reflection, and continuous learning, constantly examining how we work within the system and why to help us strengthen both our organisation and the movements we support work within the system.

How to apply

To apply, please use our application portal. Applications are due by 9am 4 May 2026. We will not review applications sent via LinkedIn or email.

GLAN does not use AI to review applications, and we ask candidates to avoid its use in this process. We want to read about people’s experience in their own words.

If you need any reasonable adjustments, including this job pack to be sent in a larger font, in order to apply for this role, please contact us.

Grants Officer

Help shape the impact of two leading charitable trusts

We are seeking a dedicated and motivated Grants Officer to work closely with two grant making Trusts and managing a varied portfolio of grants including the Arts & Heritage, Culture and Health & Social welfare, climate and environment, from assessment and due diligence through to monitoring and reporting

The Trusts’ support for charitable causes for over 50 years represents one of the leading examples of sustained philanthropy in Britain.

Position: Grants Officer

Salary: £51,718 per annum 

Location: London/Hybrid (Based in London Victoria with the expectation to work in the office at least two days per week)

Hours: Full time 35 hours per week

Contract: 18-month Fixed Term Contract

Closing Date: 9:00am, 5th May 2026

First round interviews (online): Monday 18th May 2026

Second round interviews (face to face at the offices in Victoria): Tuesday 26th May 2026

About the Role

Working across both Trusts, you will manage a varied portfolio of grants including the Arts & Heritage, Culture and Health & Social welfare, climate and environment, from assessment and due diligence through to monitoring and reporting. You’ll balance analytical depth with strong relationship-building skills, ensuring that information for funding decisions is robust, and aligned with each Trust’s strategy.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Assessing grant applications and carrying out financial, governance and delivery due diligence
• Preparing clear, well-reasoned recommendations for Trustees
• Managing grants end-to-end, including payments, monitoring and compliance
• Producing insightful reports and analysis to support strategic decision-making
• Undertaking research to inform priorities and future funding approaches

About You

You will have demonstrable experience in grant-making; this could be from already working in philanthropy or for a grant-giving organisation or perhaps you have applied for and delivered grant-funded programmes. You should be motivated by the Trusts’ purposes and be keen to develop experience in grant-making in a collaborative and values led team.

You will have:

• Strong analytical, organisational and research skills
• Confidence working with budgets and financial information
• The ability to communicate clearly and sensitively with a wide range of stakeholders
• A high level of integrity and sound judgement
• A commitment to fairness, inclusion and thoughtful grant making

About the Organisation

The Trusts focus on public engagement with culture, including the arts and dance, particularly where this delivers benefits such as improved quality of life and supports work that improves the choices of people experiencing disadvantage and inequality, including those affected by homelessness, as well as refugees and asylum seekers. They also support with funding for curatorial support, industrial, conservation and marine heritage, archaeological and outreach projects, (as well as the Museums Archaeological Acquisition Fund); Health and Social Welfare (including support for older people and projects that help disadvantaged families and young people); Cathedrals; Education (through bursaries and apprenticeships in conservation and heritage skills, and in music and dance); and Overseas work (including Arts and Heritage projects in South Eastern Europe and programmes in anglophone countries in Africa).

Benefits

In 2025 the charity received an ‘outstanding workplace’ award for the staff survey results – which recognises the hard work, contribution and commitment of all staff which makes this a fantastic place to work.

Core benefits include a generous pensions scheme (12% employer contribution), life assurance, income protection, private health and dental care, annual health checks and Employee Assistance Programme, along with a range of benefits designed to promote your work/life balance and make your time with us enjoyable and rewarding.

Use of AI in applications

Applications are reviewed by people, not systems. While AI tools may be used in a supportive way, applicants are encouraged to present their skills, experience and values authentically and in their own voice.

Other roles you may have experience of could include Grants, Grants Officer, Grants Coordinator, Grant Giving, Fundraising, Grants Fundraiser.

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

Do you want to change the world for vulnerable children?

The Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies UK (CVAA) aims to improve adoption policy and practice across the UK for the benefit of children, challenging the adoption system to deliver for children and work in their best interests. Alongside advocating for system change, CVAA works to support our member voluntary adoption agencies (VAAs) across the four nations of the UK, stimulating innovation and ensuring they stay at the leading edge of practice. The active engagement of members and the building of collaborative alliances with others who seek positive change for children are essential to the effectiveness of our work.

The Head of Policy is a vital member of the small CVAA team, working closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees to champion the voluntary adoption sector and put children at the heart of everything we do. Due to maternity leave we have an exceptional and unique opportunity for someone who shares our passion to change the world for children, to gain valuable experience working at national level with senior stakeholders to contribute to system change, advocating for the power of adoption to change lives.

You will need strong people skills, experience of developing policy in consultation with stakeholders and using data to transform services and strengthen lobbying work. Most of all you need a cast iron commitment to change the world for vulnerable children.

CVAA works to challenge discrimination and disadvantage and welcomes applications from all communities, particularly those who are underrepresented in our sector, which includes but is not limited to people from Global Majority backgrounds, adoptees, men and those who identify as LGBTQ.

Key information

• Maternity Cover 1 year from July 2026
• Location - remote contract with occasional travel
• £40 – 45K depending on experience
• An enhanced DBS check is required for this role.

Applications

Please send a CV and letter of application, outlining your motivation for applying and the skills you offer, to Satwinder Sandhu (CEO) by 5pm on Friday 8th May 2026.

Both Satwinder (CEO) and Alice (Director of Strategy and Policy) are happy to have an informal chat about the role. Please email to arrange a convenient time to speak.

Initial online interviews via Microsoft Teams will be on Monday 18th and Tuesday 19th May, with final in-person interviews scheduled for Thursday 28th May 2026 in London. Please let us know whether you cannot make any of these dates in your application.