Early years programme lead jobs

A little bit about the role 

Location: National. If London-based you will be required to attend the office 2 days per week.

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

Salary: £50,242.40 (£53,747.68 inclusive of London office allowance) plus competitive pension

Please note that this role will be closing on Thursday 14 May at 9am.

This role provides leadership to three Partnerships and Placements Managers (PPMs), with responsibility for sustaining and securing strong partnerships with local authorities (LAs) and children’s trusts across their region.

The postholder will have strategic ownership of sales activity against recruitment targets across several programmes, with scope for future growth and expansion of business development activity as the organisation evolves. 

Specifically, the role will have overall ownership for the achievement of partnerships targets in their area for the Approach Social Work programme, to develop and support 600+ Fellows (alumni) annually. This is directly linked to achieving Frontline’s organisational objective of having 4,000 impactful Fellows by 2025, who will create social change for children without a safe or stable home.

Working closely with Principal Practice Tutor colleagues, the role will manage and escalate partnership risk within local authorities, ensuring timely resolution and strong ongoing relationships.

The role will also support the Head of Partnerships and Placements in:

• Cultivating a high-performing, positive culture within the partnerships and placements team
• Creating more meaningful relationships and networks with LAs
• Advancing our charitable aims around diversity and inclusion, leadership and innovation – therefore supporting better outcomes for children and families. 

Please review the job pack for full list of responsibilities.

Please note: This role is advertised externally as Partnerships Lead for clarity, with Principal Partnerships Lead being the full internal job title.

A little bit about you 

We are looking for a strategic and relationship-focused leader who thrives in a fast-paced, target-driven environment. You will bring strong experience in business development, partnerships or account management, with a track record of delivering against ambitious targets and building long-term stakeholder relationships. You will be an effective people manager, able to set clear expectations, coach high performance and create a culture of accountability and ownership. A confident and credible communicator, you will be comfortable leading pitches, influencing senior stakeholders and navigating complex partnerships.

We have a fast-moving culture within the team and organisation, so we’re looking for someone who is who is well organised, details-focused and can use their initiative to do what works. You will have excellent communication skills, be able to build relationships with people and be willing to learn. There are lots of opportunities for growth and development in this role – and for the right candidate to make the role their own. 

If you feel you have the skills to make a real impact and contribute to creating lasting social change for children and families, we would love to hear from you. 

Important information

We have increased the diversity of Frontline’s workforce in the last 12 months, but we need to do more to have greater global majority representation in our senior roles. We know the value global majority voices bring and therefore, we are strongly encouraging applicants from these backgrounds to apply. We are also a disability confident employer and welcome applicants with disabilities.

We recognise that artificial intelligence (AI) such as ‘ChatGPT’ etc can be useful for applicants e.g. to shorten an initial draft, so we do not attempt to have an absolute ban on AI in applications. However we would caution applicants not to rely too much on AI in drafting answers to application questions. We want to hear your authentic voice arising out of your experience, and we will be looking for answers that use examples and experiences that are specific to you. You are more likely to be able to produce that kind of content yourself than an AI will.

We reserve the right to close this role ahead of the deadline once we reach a suitable number of applications, so please apply as soon as you can!

This role is ineligible for sponsorship and so all applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Research Programme Manager

Are you an experienced research professional looking to make a difference to children and young people’s lives?

Please note: this role is known internally as Research Lab Manager

Anna Freud are seeking a Research Lab Manager to join our world-leading mental health charity for children, young people and their families on a part-time basis.

Our mission is to close the gap in wellbeing and mental health by advancing, translating, delivering, and sharing the best science and practice with everyone who impacts the lives of children, young people and their families. More information about Anna Freud is available on our website.

Our EDI commitment

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and being an equal opportunities employer, whereby equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are core to our recruitment practices. All candidates who meet the job criteria will be considered for employment, regardless of ethnic origin, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, socioeconomic background, caring responsibilities and care experience.

We ask candidates to share their diversity dimensions with us to help us identify, tackle and prevent bias across the employee lifecycle. We believe a diverse workforce enhances our ability to support mental health and wellbeing, allowing us to better meet the needs of the children, young people and families we serve.

As a Disability Confident employer, disabled candidates meeting our criteria are guaranteed an interview. Applications are submitted anonymously and assessed using a fair evaluation process based on the criteria set out in our job profiles.

What we offer

We offer a range of staff benefits, including an all-in-one rewards and recognition platform called Perkbox and wellbeing offers such as finishing early on Fridays and free counselling through our Employee Assistance Programme. We are proud to have staff-led Diversity Networks offering unique opportunities for learning, connection and impact.

This role offers the chance to work on high-impact mental health research, gain exposure to leading experts across Anna Freud and UCL, and take real ownership of projects from start to finish. You’ll build experience across a range of research methods, develop your profile through publications and funding work, and play a meaningful role in improving outcomes for children and young people.

What you’ll do

A central role supporting the delivery of a programme of mental health research, coordinating projects, managing operations, and ensuring studies are delivered to a high standard from set-up through to completion.

• Coordinate and manage multiple research projects, ensuring timelines, risks, and deliverables are effectively tracked and met
• Oversee research operations, including data management, documentation, and project governance
• Lead on funder reporting and support grant applications and wider research opportunities
• Liaise with key stakeholders, including funders, NHS services, local authorities, and research participants
• Support and supervise junior team members while contributing to high-quality research outputs

What you’ll bring

For the Reseach Lab Manager role, you will be an organised and proactive research professional, with strong experience managing complex projects and data, who can confidently coordinate studies, work with a range of stakeholders, and drive high-quality research delivery in a mental health setting.

• Proven experience managing and coordinating large-scale quantitative or mixed-methods research projects
• Strong data management and administrative skills, with attention to quality, accuracy, and compliance
• Experience contributing to research outputs, including funder reports, publications, or dissemination activities
• Ability to plan, prioritise, and manage multiple deadlines independently, using initiative to solve problems
• Effective communication skills and experience working with diverse stakeholders, including supporting or supervising junior team members

Key details

Hours: Part-time: 14 hours per week (two days). Usual working hours are Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00. Specific days to be negotiated. Flexible working is possible.

Salary: £46,062 FTE per annum, plus 6% contributory pension scheme

Location: Hybrid (a mixture of home/onsite working): staff are working onsite for at least 20% of their working hours at our London site (4-8 Rodney Street, London N1 9JH). Attendance in-person for meetings, as and when required.

Contract type: Permanent

Next steps

Closing date for applications: midday (12pm), Friday, 08 May 2026. Please note that due to high application volumes, we may close this advert early. We encourage you to apply promptly and to keep an eye on our future vacancies for more opportunities.

Notification of interview: shortlisted applicants will be notified no later than Friday, 15 May 2026. During shortlisting, applicants are anonymously assessed using the criteria visible in the Job Profile. Please note: due to the high volume of applications received, we will not be able to provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants.

Interviews: will be held in Week commencing 18 May 2026.

How to apply: click on the 'apply now’ button to apply online. We are unable to accept CVs and kindly request no contact from agencies.

Questions?

Please get in contact with any job enquiries, or if you require assistance or experience difficulties when applying. Please note that successful candidate(s) will be asked to evidence their Right to Work in the UK post-job offer – we do not hold a sponsor license therefore we are unable to provide Visa sponsorship.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Senior Communications Officer to come and join our team in Middlesbrough.

Location – This role is both community-based in Middlesbrough, with the ability to work from home as agreed with your manager. There may also be occasional travel to other programme sites (currently Redcar, Cleveland, Stoke-On-Trent and Scotland) or travel to our London office.  

Salary – Up to £35,000 DOE 

Employment Type – Permanent

Team – Communications team

About you

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following: 

• Significant experience in a communications role, including experience with copywriting and content creation. 
• Experience producing high quality, clear, compelling and audience appropriate content for a range of platforms.
• Empathy, cultural awareness, and sensitivity when communicating with and about communities whose voices and experiences are often underrepresented, including those with English as an additional language or limited literacy in English.
• The ability to clearly demonstrate our impact and inspire collaboration among our partners and stakeholders by sharing compelling and meaningful stories.
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the local community, including its strengths, needs, and challenges. 
• Strong knowledge and skills in Adobe Creative Suite such as Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop or Canva. 

About the role

The responsibilities of this role include: 

• Actively identify opportunities where communications can strengthen programme delivery, support parent outreach and increase engagement with families and communities. 
• Develop the local stakeholder engagement approach in line with agreed objectives, proactively identifying opportunities to strengthen relationships and using data and team insight to increase engagement.
• Support effective communications with stakeholders across sectors including community, health, education and local organisations. 
• Develop and produce compelling, audience focused content for a range of channels, including newsletters, case studies and promotional materials. 
• Work closely with the Head of Communications, Programme Leads and colleagues across the organisation to align communications priorities with programme and organisational objectives. 

About us

Thrive at Five is a national charity focused on giving every child the best possible start in life. We know the foundations for life and learning are built in the earliest years, from pregnancy to five. By working alongside families, communities and local partners, we help build stronger, more connected support for parents, so more children get what they need to thrive and reach a good level of development by age five.
 

Thrive at Five is a relatively young organisation but with an already strong national and political profile, having been called out in Parliament for our ways of working in Stoke-on-Trent and invited to be interviewed at the 2025 Civil Society Summit by the Secretary of State for Education. We have grown rapidly in our first four years, with a growing team of nearly 40 across the country. 2026 will be a year of further growth and milestones for the charity as we celebrate our fifth-year anniversary and expand into our third and fourth regions. This will involve recruiting for a new teams, establishing our programmes and beginning to co-design and implement our work in partnership with communities. 

About our benefits

• Pension contributions – We will contribute 3% and you can contribute 5% towards your pension through NEST. 
• 25 annual leave days per year plus bank holidays.
• £100 contribution towards your professional body membership.

Please note that as this role is subject to a successful Basic Level Disclosure check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). If you have any unspent convictions, but wish to apply for this role, please advise us in your application. The successful candidate will also need to provide satisfactory references and current right to work in the UK. 

To apply for this role, please submit your cover letter and CV by following the Apply Now button. Closing date for applications is midnight on Friday 8th May 2026.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Senior Communications Officer to come and join our team in Redcar & Cleveland. 

Location – This role is both community-based in Redcar & Cleveland, with the ability to work from home as agreed with your manager. There may also be occasional travel to other programme sites (currently Middlesbrough, Stoke-On-Trent and Scotland) or travel to our London office.  

Salary – Up to £35,000 DOE 

Employment Type – Permanent

Team – Communications team

About you

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following: 

• Significant experience in a communications role, including experience with copywriting and content creation. 
• Experience producing high quality, clear, compelling and audience appropriate content for a range of platforms. 
• The ability to clearly demonstrate our impact and inspire collaboration among our partners and stakeholders by sharing compelling and meaningful stories.
• Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the local community, including its strengths, needs, and challenges. 
• Strong knowledge and skills in Adobe Creative Suite such as Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop or Canva. 

About the role

The responsibilities of this role include: 

• Actively identify opportunities where communications can strengthen programme delivery, support parent outreach and increase engagement with families and communities. 
• Develop the local stakeholder engagement approach in line with agreed objectives, proactively identifying opportunities to strengthen relationships and using data and team insight to increase engagement.
• Support effective communications with stakeholders across sectors including community, health, education and local organisations. 
• Develop and produce compelling, audience focused content for a range of channels, including newsletters, case studies and promotional materials. 
• Work closely with the Head of Communications, Programme Leads and colleagues across the organisation to align communications priorities with programme and organisational objectives. 

About us

Thrive at Five is a national charity focused on giving every child the best possible start in life. We know the foundations for life and learning are built in the earliest years, from pregnancy to five. By working alongside families, communities and local partners, we help build stronger, more connected support for parents, so more children get what they need to thrive and reach a good level of development by age five.
 

Thrive at Five is a relatively young organisation but with an already strong national and political profile, having been called out in Parliament for our ways of working in Stoke-on-Trent and invited to be interviewed at the 2025 Civil Society Summit by the Secretary of State for Education. We have grown rapidly in our first four years, with a growing team of nearly 40 across the country. 2026 will be a year of further growth and milestones for the charity as we celebrate our fifth-year anniversary and expand into our third and fourth regions. This will involve recruiting for a new teams, establishing our programmes and beginning to co-design and implement our work in partnership with communities. 

About our benefits

• Pension contributions – We will contribute 3% and you can contribute 5% towards your pension through NEST. 
• 25 annual leave days per year plus bank holidays.
• £100 contribution towards your professional body membership.

Please note that as this role is subject to a successful Basic Level Disclosure check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). If you have any unspent convictions, but wish to apply for this role, please advise us in your application. The successful candidate will also need to provide satisfactory references and current right to work in the UK. 

To apply for this role, please submit your cover letter and CV by following the Apply Now button. Closing date for applications is midnight on Friday 8th May 2026.

Barnardo's is seeking a qualified teacher to lead and support the delivery of evidence‑based social and emotional learning (SEL) programmes across St Helens, working with Early Years settings, primary and secondary schools, and parents.

A key focus of this role will be the implementation of the PATHS Programme (Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies), alongside wider SEL approaches. PATHS is a well‑established, evidence‑based programme that supports children and young people to develop essential life skills, including self‑awareness, self‑management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision‑making.

About the role

As Programme Co‑ordinator, you will play a central role in embedding high‑quality SEL practice across a range of educational settings. You will work collaboratively with professionals and families to ensure programmes are delivered with confidence, consistency and impact.

Your role will include:

• Leading and supporting the delivery of SEL programmes across Early Years, primary and secondary school settings
• Providing coaching and ongoing support to staff delivering the programmes
• Modelling effective programme delivery in educational settings
• Designing and delivering training sessions to build staff skills and confidence
• Engaging with parents and carers, supporting them to understand and reinforce social and emotional learning at home
• Building strong, collaborative relationships with schools, settings and partner organisations

You will be part of a UK‑wide Barnardo's team, with access to comprehensive training, resources and peer support to help you excel in the role.

About you

In addition to meeting the criteria outlined in the generic Programme Co‑ordinator Person Specification, applicants must demonstrate the following service‑specific experience and attributes:

Essential:

• A recognised professional teaching qualification
• Experience of working within Early Years, with an understanding of progression into primary and secondary education
• Post‑qualification practice experience in social and emotional learning (SEL)
• A strong working knowledge of the UK Curriculum and its key components
• Experience in a co‑ordination or leadership role, developing collaborative relationships to achieve shared goals
• A full driving licence and access to your own vehicle to travel between settings
  (Driving is an intrinsic part of the role. Applicants unable to drive due to a disability should demonstrate alternative ways of meeting the mobility requirements of the post.)

Desirable:

• Experience of designing and delivering engaging, high‑quality training for professionals, using a range of approaches to meet different learning needs
• Experience of delivering social and emotional learning programmes within primary and/or secondary school settings

Although this contract has a permanent status, please be aware that this post is subject to funding currently to end of July 2027 and therefore should this funding not be extended further, you may be subject to a redundancy consultation or a TUPE arrangement. This contract is due to expire on 31st July 2027.

PATHS (Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies) is a well‑established, evidence‑based social and emotional learning (SEL) programme. It supports young children to build core life skills including self‑awareness, self‑management, social awareness, healthy relationships and responsible decision‑making.

About the role

As Programme Co‑ordinator, you will lead the local implementation of PATHS, working collaboratively with preschool teams to embed the programme effectively and confidently into daily practice. Your role will be both hands‑on and strategic, and will include:

• Providing coaching and ongoing support to Early Years settings delivering PATHS
• Modelling high‑quality programme delivery in preschool environments
• Delivering training and guidance to staff to build confidence and consistency
• Developing strong, inclusive relationships with settings to support positive outcomes for children

You'll be part of a supportive UK‑wide Barnardo's PATHS team, with access to full training, resources and peer support to help you succeed and grow in the role.

About you

In addition to meeting the criteria in the generic Programme Co‑ordinator Person Specification, we are looking for candidates who can demonstrate the following service‑specific experience and attributes:

• Essential:

  • A recognised professional teaching qualification
  • Experience of working within Early Years, with an understanding of progression into primary and secondary education
  • Post‑qualification practice experience in social and emotional learning (SEL)
  • A strong working knowledge of the UK Curriculum and its key components
  • Experience in a co‑ordination or leadership role, developing collaborative relationships to achieve shared goals
  • A full driving licence and access to your own vehicle to travel between settings
    (Driving is an intrinsic part of the role. Applicants unable to drive due to a disability should demonstrate alternative ways of meeting the mobility requirements of the post.)

  Desirable:

  • Experience of designing and delivering engaging, high‑quality training for professionals, using a range of approaches to meet different learning needs
  • Experience of delivering social and emotional learning programmes within early years / primary school settings
  • Be a fluent Welsh speaker

Most importantly, this role offers the opportunity to make a real and lasting difference to children, young people and families across Pembrokeshire by strengthening social and emotional wellbeing from a young age.

Although this contract has a permanent status, please be aware that this post is subject to funding currently until end of March 2027 and therefore should this funding not be extended further, you may be subject to a redundancy consultation or a TUPE arrangement. This contract is due to expire on 31st March 2027.teach

We are launching something rare. Lighthouse is the clearest expression yet of what Under One Sky has been building towards for over a decade - a space rooted in care, consistency, and the belief that people can rebuild their lives when they are met with dignity and trust. At our core is something simple but powerful: a commitment to human connection.

We take our work seriously, because the stakes are high, but we try not to take ourselves too seriously. There is discipline in how we deliver, but also warmth, openness, and moments of joy that matter just as much.

Lighthouse represents a step change for us. It is the point where our ambition is fully realised - moving beyond outreach into a structured, sustained environment where people can stabilise, reconnect, and move forward. We want Lighthouse to be exceptional - not only for the people we serve, but something that sets a standard others look to and learn from. 

We are looking for two people who want to help shape and run this with us. This is not a role to simply manage a programme; it is an opportunity to co-create it. We are looking for people who combine initiative with reliability - individuals who are grounded, thoughtful, and willing to take ownership. People who care deeply about purpose, who value relationships, and who bring energy and discipline to their work. These roles are for people who want to build something meaningful and do it brilliantly.

About Under One Sky & The Lighthouse

Under One Sky works alongside people experiencing homelessness to provide practical support, human connection, and pathways toward greater stability. 

Lighthouse creates the conditions for people who have experienced homelessness to move beyond survival and begin rebuilding their lives. Over twelve weeks, small cohorts come together in a consistent, supportive space where confidence grows, relationships are rebuilt, and people reconnect with their sense of direction and possibility.

Through outreach, partnership working, and volunteer-led programmes, we aim to create spaces where people are treated with dignity, trust, and consistency.

The role

The Programme Manager leads the operational delivery of Lighthouse, ensuring the programme runs safely, reliably, and to a consistently high standard across the programme week. This role sits at the centre of the work - creating the conditions that allow Lighthouse to function with both structure and humanity.

Lighthouse operates in a dynamic environment where participant needs, operational demands, and volunteer teams intersect daily. You will bring clarity and calm to that complexity, maintaining strong systems and organisation while responding thoughtfully and decisively to what emerges in real time.

You will take ownership of the systems, planning, and operational coordination that underpin delivery. This includes overseeing key sessions, ensuring volunteers are well supported, and maintaining a physical space that is safe, welcoming, and well run. Your role is to make sure Lighthouse works - consistently, reliably, and with care.

You will also play a central role in shaping how Lighthouse develops over time. By observing how delivery works in practice, you will identify what can be strengthened and translate this into practical improvements. This requires sound judgement, attention to detail, and a commitment to doing things well.

You will work closely with the Engagement Manager to ensure Lighthouse remains both operationally strong and deeply responsive to the people it serves.

Key responsibilities

Operational leadership

• Lead the day-to-day operational delivery of the Lighthouse 
• Plan and coordinate the weekly programme schedule, ensuring delivery is reliable and consistent
• Ensure sessions are well staffed and supported by volunteers and team members
• Provide operational leadership during high-demand sessions
• Respond calmly and effectively to challenges if they arise

Programme systems and coordination

• Develop and maintain systems that support consistent high-quality delivery
• Coordinate logistics including spaces, equipment, supplies, and delivery resources
• Support budgeting, resource planning, and cost oversight
• Maintain clear and consistently applied operational processes 

Space and facilities management

• Ensure the Lighthouse space is safe, organised, and ready for delivery
• Oversee opening and closing procedures 
• Coordinate setup and breakdown of delivery areas, equipment, and supplies
• Maintain a welcoming, well-structured environment for participants, volunteers, and staff
• Liaise with venue partners or building managers where required

Volunteer coordination

• Coordinate volunteer scheduling and session rotas across the programme week
• Ensure sessions are appropriately supported by volunteers
• Maintain clear and timely communication with volunteers 

Programme monitoring

• Ensure delivery data is recorded accurately and consistently
• Maintain operational records to support reporting and learning
• Support monitoring of delivery against agreed objectives and metrics

Programme development and operational improvement

• Monitor how Lighthouse operates in practice and identify opportunities to strengthen delivery
• Translate learning from day-to-day delivery into practical adjustments to programme design, scheduling, and systems
• Work with the Engagement Manager and the Co-Leads to implement improvements
• Ensure changes are communicated clearly and embedded across volunteers and teams

Operational partnerships

• Coordinate practical relationships with venues, delivery partners, and collaborators
• Manage operational arrangements for Lighthouse sessions
• Ensure partnerships support reliable and well-organised programme delivery

Requirements

About you

This role requires someone who is organised, decisive, and comfortable taking responsibility in a complex delivery environment.

You will be able to maintain structure and clarity even when situations change quickly. You will bring a calm and practical approach to problem-solving and be confident supporting volunteers and teams during live programme delivery.

You will likely bring:

• significant experience coordinating programmes, projects, or complex operations

• the ability to manage multiple moving parts while maintaining attention to detail

• confidence making practical decisions in real time

• experience supporting teams or volunteers in delivery environments

• strong organisational discipline and systems thinking

• a commitment to dignity and respect when working alongside people experiencing homelessness

Working pattern

Lighthouse operates primarily between 8:00am and 8:00pm, with occasional evening events. Programme delivery is supported by a team of volunteers.

The two Managers coordinate their working schedules to ensure presence during key delivery periods across the programme week.

Working patterns are flexible and planned collaboratively to support delivery while maintaining sustainable workloads.

Lighthouse Management Structure

Lighthouse is delivered through a shared model, with two Managers working together to ensure the programme remains a safe, consistent, and dignified space for people experiencing homelessness.

Delivering this well requires both strong programme organisation and careful, trauma-informed engagement with participants.

The two Managers hold complementary responsibilities that ensure Lighthouse is both well-run and deeply responsive to the people it serves. While each role leads on specific areas of the programme, they work closely together to maintain consistent standards, clear communication, and a reliable experience for participants.

Joint responsibilities

Together the Managers ensure that Lighthouse operates with consistency, safety and care:

• Participants experience Lighthouse as a safe and welcoming space where they are treated with dignity and respect.

• Delivery remains trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in Under One Sky’s values of presence, trust, and follow-through.

• Lighthouse sessions are appropriately staffed, with volunteers and team members supported to deliver confidently and reliably.

• Safeguarding is embedded into day-to-day delivery, with clear processes for responding to disclosures, incidents, risk, and vulnerability.

• Participant needs, concerns, and wellbeing are recognised early and responded to appropriately.

• Volunteers and staff are supported to hold clear boundaries while maintaining compassion and respect.

• Communication and follow-through are strong so participants do not experience gaps, confusion, or inconsistent responses.

• Lighthouse maintains a high standard of care, professionalism, and stability across the programme week.

Culture and approach

The Managers help shape the tone of Lighthouse through calm, grounded leadership and consistent presence within the programme.

They help ensure Lighthouse remains a place where participants feel:

• seen and respected

• safe and protected

• met with consistency rather than unpredictability

• supported without judgement

• able to access help with dignity

They create the conditions for volunteers and staff to provide meaningful support while ensuring Lighthouse remains structured, accountable, and deeply human.

The role

The Engagement Manager leads the relational and safeguarding delivery of Lighthouse, ensuring the programme is experienced as a place of dignity, trust, and consistency for every participant. This role sits at the centre of the work - shaping how Lighthouse feels, how people are received, and how support is experienced in practice.

Lighthouse operates in a dynamic environment where participant needs, operational demands, and volunteer teams intersect daily. You will bring presence, judgement, and emotional intelligence to that space, maintaining strong relational consistency while responding thoughtfully and appropriately to what emerges in real time.

You will take ownership of participant engagement across the programme. This includes building trusted relationships, maintaining strong safeguarding practice, and supporting volunteers to engage in ways that are respectful, boundaried, and trauma-informed. Your role is to ensure Lighthouse is not only well run, but deeply human - a place where people feel seen, respected, and supported.

You will also play a central role in shaping how Lighthouse supports people beyond immediate engagement. By understanding participant journeys and needs, you will help strengthen pathways into stability, connection, and opportunity. This requires sound judgement, relational skill, and the ability to translate insight into practical support.

You will work closely with the Programme Manager to ensure Lighthouse remains both operationally strong and deeply responsive to the people it serves.

Key responsibilities

Participant engagement and presence

• Lead participant engagement across Lighthouse delivery
• Build consistent, trusted relationships with participants
• Maintain a visible, calm, and grounded presence during programme sessions
• Help ensure participants feel recognised, welcomed, and respected

Participant wellbeing and support

• Recognise emerging participant needs and respond appropriately
• Support participants to access information, services, and appropriate support
• Help maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive programme environment
• Ensure participant experience remains consistent and well held

Safeguarding leadership

• Lead safeguarding practice across the programme
• Coordinate safeguarding processes, documentation, and follow-up
• Respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns and incidents
• Ensure safeguarding procedures and escalation pathways are consistently followed
• Exercise sound judgement in complex or sensitive situations

Volunteer support and guidance

• Support volunteers to engage confidently and appropriately with participants
• Provide guidance on boundaries, relational approaches, and safeguarding awareness
• Help create a volunteer culture that is consistent, compassionate, and well supported
• Ensure volunteers feel clear, confident, and supported in their roles

Partnerships, referrals, and pathways

• Build and maintain relationships with outreach teams, support services, and sector partners
• Coordinate referrals and connections to external services where appropriate
• Develop pathways into employment, training, and longer-term stability
• Liaise with employers and partner organisations connected to participant opportunities
• Strengthen the network of support available to participants beyond Lighthouse

Requirements

About you

This role requires someone who is grounded, perceptive, and confident taking responsibility within a complex, people-centred environment.

You will be able to build trust quickly while maintaining clear boundaries and professional consistency. You will bring a calm, thoughtful presence and be comfortable navigating emotionally complex situations with care and sound judgement.

You will likely bring:

• significant experience working alongside vulnerable or marginalised communities
• strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• knowledge of safeguarding practice and working with vulnerable adults
• confidence navigating complex or emotionally demanding situations
• the ability to remain calm, consistent, and thoughtful under pressure
• a deep commitment to dignity, respect, and trauma-informed practice

Working pattern

Lighthouse operates primarily between 8:00am and 8:00pm, with occasional evening events. Programme delivery is supported by a team of volunteers.

The two Managers coordinate their working schedules to ensure presence during key delivery periods across the programme week.

Working patterns are flexible and planned collaboratively to support delivery while maintaining sustainable workloads.

Lighthouse Management Structure

Lighthouse is delivered through a shared model, with two Managers working together to ensure the programme remains a safe, consistent, and dignified space for people experiencing homelessness.

Delivering this well requires both strong programme organisation and careful, trauma-informed engagement with participants.

The two Managers hold complementary responsibilities that ensure Lighthouse is both well-run and deeply responsive to the people it serves. While each role leads on specific areas of the programme, they work closely together to maintain consistent standards, clear communication, and a reliable experience for participants.

Joint responsibilities

Together the Managers ensure that Lighthouse operates with consistency, safety and care:

• Participants experience Lighthouse as a safe and welcoming space where they are treated with dignity and respect
• Delivery remains trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in Under One Sky’s values of presence, trust, and follow-through
• Lighthouse sessions are appropriately staffed, with volunteers and team members supported to deliver confidently and reliably
• Safeguarding is embedded into day-to-day delivery, with clear processes for responding to disclosures, incidents, risk, and vulnerability
• Participant needs, concerns, and wellbeing are recognised early and responded to appropriately
• Volunteers and staff are supported to hold clear boundaries while maintaining compassion and respect
• Communication and follow-through are strong so participants do not experience gaps, confusion, or inconsistent responses
• Lighthouse maintains a high standard of care, professionalism, and stability across the programme week

Culture and approach

The Managers help shape the tone of Lighthouse through calm, grounded leadership and consistent presence within the programme.

They help ensure the Lighthouse remains a place where participants feel:

• seen and respected
• safe and protected
• met with consistency rather than unpredictability
• supported without judgement
• able to access help with dignity

They create the conditions for volunteers and staff to provide meaningful support while ensuring Lighthouse remains structured, accountable, and deeply human.

Job title: Operations & People Lead
Contract: 1.0 FTE - 1 year fixed-term contract with the possibility to become permanent
Location: Hybrid working: office base is at Somerset House, London: we are flexible on approach, within a hybrid model of in-person & virtual. This can be discussed at interview (*) 
Salary: £45k to £50k p.a. (pro rata), depending on experience
Reporting to: CEO
Start date: ASAP - depending on candidate’s notice period 
Normal hours: Office hours are 9.30 - 5.30pm, Monday – Friday. As this is ideally a 0.8 FTE role, there is flexibility on how the time is spread across the week. Please state how you would intend to allocate your time when you apply. (requests for flexible working hours will be considered) 

Other: 

• Annual leave is 25 days per year (pro rata) plus standard bank holidays
• Cultural entitlement of £250 per annum (pro rata) to spend on arts/cultural events & activities
• All employees are able to claim 1 hour a week for personal wellbeing
• Pension scheme enrolment and 6% employer contributions (reviewed annually)

(*) Access to office space in London is always available to staff who can't or don't want to work from home. 

Some travel is involved in this role, to visit organisations and run programme activities.

If you would like this application pack in a different format (e.g. large print or audio file), please email us (information in the link provided). 

About Julie’s Bicycle (JB)

JB unites culture, creativity and climate action to drive change. For nearly two decades, we’ve been at the forefront of the creative climate movement - one of the first to position culture as a powerful force for radical change. Our mission is to mobilise the creative sector, equipping thousands of artists, cultural organisations, and creative leaders with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to transform their practice into climate action. We focus on tackling the root causes of the climate, nature, and justice crises by shaping thinking, informing policy, and scaling practical solutions. Together, we can turn creativity into a powerful force for a just and regenerative future.

Role summary

As our new Operations and People Lead, you will help us continue to build and nurture a strong, can-do, and empowering operational culture that is rooted in collaboration, equity and care. You will support the CEO in ensuring the right systems and processes are in place for the smooth running of the organisation and support the Head of Programmes in the seamless delivery of our programs during a period of rapid change. You will collaborate with the whole team to continue to strengthen our equitable foundations and ensure our internal structures fully reflect and sustain our core values of justice and care.

Your goal will be to balance operational efficiency with team well-being, optimising people and teams allocations and implementing new approaches and processes so that we deliver outstanding work, while our people thrive. You will allow the leadership to focus on high-level strategy while you support us in continuing to nurture our supportive, empowering, and equitable working environment.

Key Responsibilities

People strategy - (Approx 40%)

• Operations strategy and ways of working: Work with the CEO and SLT, co-design and implement a robust operations strategy and clear ways of working for effective allocation of team and resources to achieve the organisation's objectives, strengthening further our  principles of deep collaboration, equity and care.

• Equitable recruitment and retention strategy: Building on our existing progress in inclusive hiring, you will work closely with the CEO and SLT to evolve and champion our recruitment and retention strategy. You will continue to refine our processes, ensuring we remain at the forefront of removing access barriers and nurturing a diverse, flourishing, and long-term workforce. You will be responsible for timelining, creating Job Descriptions; advertising strategy and budget; liaise with hiring manager; referencing; offer letters & contracts.

• People development & care: Working closely with the CEO and SLT, contribute to the development and lead on the implementation of training, continuous professional development processes and policies that enable transparency, peer to peer feedback, psychological safety, professional development and empowerment.

• Delivery strategy: Working closely with the Head of Programmes, design and drive a capacity planning strategy for the team across 20+ projects to ensure impact delivery as well as balanced workloads. 

• Cross-cutting principles: Working closely with the CEO, leading internal policy work, you will steward and expand our internal policy framework, ensuring that our established principles of wellbeing, diversity, accessibility, and anti-racism continue to be deeply woven into the fabric of every new and existing policy.

Operational excellence (Approx 30%)

• Systems improvement: Enhance and adjust systems, processes, and best practices to ensure they are flexible enough to respond to the lived realities of a diverse team.

• Digital access: Lead the planning and implementation of IT and digital strategies that facilitate accessible and collaborative remote/hybrid working.

• Compliance and safety: Maintain and communicate health, safety, and security protocols through a lens of collective care and team protection.

• Process standardisation: Working with the CEO and Finance Manager, drive consistency across HR, admin, and finance to reduce cognitive load and administrative friction for the team.

HR & financial administration (Approx 20%)

• HR: 

  • HR Software & data ownership, maintenance and ensuring consistency in colleagues use of the software. 

  • Act as the primary point of contact for HR enquiries, accessibility requests, and leave calculation.

  • Act on behalf of the CEO in handling confidential issues with care and restorative intent & liaising with external HR advisor.

• Financial support: In partnership with our Finance Manager, coordinate confidential finance administration, including payroll, pensions, and audit preparation, ensuring all team members are supported by stable financial operations.

• Resource management: Manage IT and Operations budgets.

• Contract management: Oversee the administration of employment contracts and agreements and NDAs for freelancers, as well as internship placements to ensure fair and clear working agreements.

Executive support & governance (Approx 10% of the time)

• Leadership partnership: Support the SLT in strategic direction, planning, and workforce development so they can focus on fundraising, advocacy and high-level impact work.

• Support the CEO on internal communications, business travel, scheduling, diary management, technical assistance.

• Board: Manage all JB Board administration, including arranging quarterly meetings, minutes, etc.

• Funding & tenders: Provide necessary operational and organisational information for funding applications and manage portal processes for payments and offers.

• Office Management: Lead on the management of JB’s office, ensuring that the office is a comfortable working environment and equipment is maintained. Be the first point of contact for Somerset House, facilities, and for office related issues.

Person Specification

Essential

• HR Expertise: Six to eight years of demonstrable practical experience in designing and implementing People centred strategies with a focus on collaborative leadership rooted in inclusion, equity, diversity and care (six to eight years of experience). We’re particularly interested in someone experienced and/or genuinely interested in participatory design methods that incorporate the lived experiences of a diverse team.

• Operational excellence: Six to eight years of demonstrable practical experience of developing and implementing effective operations strategies and effective systems and processes that enable organisational excellence and staff wellbeing.

• A genuine, demonstrable commitment for the role of culture in addressing the climate, environment and justice crises, preferably with experience of working with values-led teams working on systemic issues especially working across climate, environmental and justice issues.

• Demonstrable experience of planning and implementing streamlined digital operations, bringing a seamless and cohesive approach to IT and software solutions.

• Strategic thinking with an eye for detail: Ability to contribute to high-level strategy while maintaining excellent attention to detail.

• Excellent communication skills: Ability to communicate key messages effectively across various written and verbal forms.

• Broad familiarity with financial and business principles.

• Effectively manage competing priorities and adapt and respond as business needs require

• Experience of planning using organisational and project management skills with the ability to work under pressure and manage time and resources effectively.

• Creative problem solving skills

• A proactive, flexible approach, and ability to progress work independently in a fast paced environment.

Why Join Us?

At Julie’s Bicycle, you’ll join a passionate team working at the intersection of creativity and climate action. We offer a collaborative, inclusive, and flexible working culture, where your voice will shape how the cultural sector responds to one of the greatest challenges of our time. 

How to apply

If you’d like to apply, please: 

• Complete the application form and equal opportunities monitoring form found on our website.

Submit these via our application portal by 11.59pm on Sunday 17th May 2026.

We strongly encourage early applications as we may close the recruitment early if we have reached a sufficient number of viable applications.

We know job descriptions can feel daunting and that people who are from the global majority, from working class backgrounds, those without formal qualifications and some LGBTQ+ candidates are statistically less likely to apply even when they are well suited to a role.

If you read this JD and felt you *almost* matched (if you have built relevant skills through freelance work, lived experience, activism, organising or routes outside formal education) we very much want to hear from you! We also believe class is not defined by education or parental occupation alone. If you identify as working class by your current financial experience and lifestyle, that counts.

Our commitment to meeting underrepresented individuals in the sector:

Guaranteed Interview Scheme and Positive Action

As part of our ongoing commitment to building a team that better reflects the people, communities and causes we serve, we operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for disabled candidates, in line with the Equality Act 2010.

This scheme is available to candidates who identify as disabled (including under the social model of disability, encompassing physical, sensory, cognitive, mental health and long-term health conditions) and who can demonstrate within their application that they meet all of the essential criteria outlined in the job description. Candidates will be asked within the equal opportunities form whether they wish to be considered under this scheme. This information will be handled in confidence and will only be shared with those involved in the shortlisting process where necessary to apply the scheme.

We are committed to increasing the diversity of our workforce and recognise that some groups are underrepresented within our organisation and sector. We therefore actively encourage applications from people from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Where candidates are equally qualified, we may apply positive action in line with the Equality Act 2010 to select a candidate from an underrepresented group, where this is a proportionate means of addressing underrepresentation.

A note on AI

While we understand that some people may use AI tools for accessibility (and recognise and support that many assistive technologies may use elements of AI), we ask candidates to consider what tools are most appropriate during the application process. For example, we recognise the value for many people of machine learning language tools like Grammarly. On the other hand we would discourage the use of generative AI tools in writing your application, as we'd like to understand your personal interest in working for Julie's Bicycle, and be able to understand your non-AI-assisted communication skills just as they are. We also recognise that for many of the people and creative communities we work with, the rise of generative AI poses a threat to their livelihoods, while the environmental impacts of AI are only set to grow: this means we also have a responsibility as Julie's Bicycle to consider where and when (and if) we use AI in our work. 

Thank you for your interest in working at Julie’s Bicycle.

An exciting opportunity to help turn a new national initiative into reality as it moves from planning into delivery. Over the next year, we will launch a new national Foundation Degree while building the foundations of a wider programme of work. In the initial phase, this role will focus on working locally with partners and participants in one or more locations to support recruitment, onboarding and preparation for launch, while also contributing to the wider programme build-out alongside a national team. As delivery begins, the role will transition into ongoing programme management across a cluster of delivery centres, leading high-quality delivery, participant experience and programme quality, and helping to build strong, sustainable centres over time.

Role Summary

Julie’s Bicycle (JB) is seeking an experienced project manager to work across our Arts Council England Programme. This is a rare opportunity to join JB’s passionate, expert, and friendly team at our internationally renowned non-profit, working at the intersection of culture and the climate crisis.

Job title: Culture & Climate Project Manager
Contract: 1.0 FTE (part-time can be considered for the right candidate), 1 year fixed-term contract with the possibility to become permanent
Location: Hybrid working: office base is at Somerset House, London: we are flexible on approach, within a hybrid model of in-person & virtual. This can be discussed at interview (*) 
Salary: £39k to £41k p.a. (pro rata), depending on experience
Reporting to: Arts Council England Lead and Programme Manager
Start date: ASAP - depending on candidate’s notice period 
Normal hours: Office hours are 9.30 - 5.30pm, Monday – Friday.
(requests for flexible working hours will be considered)

Other: 

• Annual leave is 25 days per year (pro rata) plus standard bank holidays
• Cultural entitlement of £250 per annum (pro rata) to spend on arts/cultural events & activities
• All employees are able to claim 1 hour a week for personal wellbeing
• Pension scheme enrolment and 6% employer contributions (reviewed annually)

(*) Access to office space in London is always available to staff who can't or don't want to work from home. 

Some travel is involved in this role - to visit organisations and run programme activities.

If you would like this application pack in a different format (e.g. large print or audio file), please email us (information in the link provided). 

About Julie’s Bicycle (JB)

JB unites culture, creativity and climate action to drive change. For nearly two decades, we’ve been at the forefront of the creative climate movement - one of the first to position culture as a powerful force for radical change. Our mission is to mobilise the creative sector, equipping thousands of artists, cultural organisations, and creative leaders with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to transform their practice into climate action. We focus on tackling the root causes of the climate, nature, and justice crises by shaping thinking, informing policy, and scaling practical solutions. Together, we can turn creativity into a powerful force for a just and regenerative future.

About Key Programmes

Our Partnership with Arts Council England 

Julie’s Bicycle delivers the Arts Council England’s Environmental Programme, supporting organisations to embed Environmental Responsibility (ER) within their governance, operations and programmes, and supporting the Arts Council England (ACE) to drive positive environmental change within the sector. The programme focuses on delivering support to National Portfolio Organisations (NPOs) and Investment Principle Support Organisations (IPSOs), as well as the wider creative and cultural sector through a suite of free tools, resources, events and programmes.

Our programme is adaptive, responding to sector needs, insights and learning from delivery. As such, there is a significant opportunity for a collaborative and experienced project manager to deliver strands of work across the programme and to help shape the programme itself in response to learning and insights.

The Environmental Programme broadly includes: 

Sector support: developing resources, running events, facilitating workshops and peer share spaces to deepen understanding and share knowledge on topics relevant to environmental sustainability, tailored for freelance creatives, boards, cultural buildings and cultural practitioners; broadening access to cultural climate practice via creative climate e-learning;

Sector reporting: supporting organisations in reporting their environmental impacts and actions using the Creative Climate Tools - our platform created for cultural organisations and businesses.

Sector leadership: to inspire, develop and nurture sector leadership via a number of dedicated programme strands focused on governance, justice, resilience and decarbonisation.

Responsibilities

We are looking for an outstanding and energetic individual to join our team as a Culture and Climate Project Manager, leading and facilitating key strands of work across the programme in partnership with ACE.

Your core responsibilities will include:

• Annual Report: project managing, writing and delivering the ACE Annual Report. Drawing together both qualitative and quantitative data, case studies and stories of change to create an annual snapshot of environmental activity across the portfolio. You will work closely with the ACE team Environmental Coordinator on this project. Tasks will include:

  • End-to-end project management: Create and manage the production timeline, ensuring the report is delivered on time and meets Arts Council England (ACE) standards.

  • Data Synthesis: Collaborate with the Environmental Sustainability Coordinator to gather, analyse, and interpret both quantitative (carbon data, metrics) and qualitative (narrative progress) information.

  • Storytelling & impact: Coordinate the strategy and team involved in identifying and developing compelling case studies and "stories of change" that demonstrate the real-world impact of environmental activity across the portfolio.

  • Content development: Draft, edit, and refine the report narrative to ensure a compelling, cohesive, and accessible copy. Manage all the contributions to the copy and version control process.

  • Engage with ACE and JB’s comms team for the launch of the report to ensure maximum impact.

• E-learning module/s: Leading and project managing the development of new modules, working across internal teams to co-design and deliver engaging content and a great user experience.

  • Strategic lead: Serve as the primary project manager for the creation of new digital learning assets from concept to launch.

  • Content development co-design & collaboration: Lead on the content development and/or the facilitation of content co-creation with internal teams and expert associates to gather subject matter expertise and ensure content aligns with the programme’s strategy.

  • User experience (UX) oversight: Ensure modules are engaging, accessible, and intuitive for a diverse range of learners.

  • Production management: Oversee the technical and creative delivery of content, managing workflows between designers, LMS developers, and internal stakeholders.

• ACE partnership support: working in partnership with ACE's environmental responsibility team to help embed ER within the organisation, including stakeholder liaison and consultation workshops with area/regional managers.

  • Stakeholder Liaison: Build and maintain strong working relationships with the ACE environmental responsibility team and regional leads.

  • Consultation & Facilitation: Design and lead workshops for area and regional managers to gather feedback and align on ER implementation strategies.

• Programme delivery: Working collaboratively on the delivery of the ACE programme. This will include:

  • Resource development: Conduct research to create toolkits, guides, and practical resources that support the wider ACE programme.

  • Training design: Develop and facilitate training sessions, ensuring content is tailored for both in-person and virtual delivery.

  • Group facilitation: Convene and lead focus groups, stakeholder networks, and leadership sessions to foster knowledge sharing and peer learning.

  • Collaborative team work: Work fluidly across the delivery team to support large-scale program milestones and ensure a high standard and participant engagement.

About you:

You will be passionate about the cultural sector's role in responding to the climate and nature crisis, and committed to embedding values of care, stewardship, justice and collaborative action within it.

Candidates may come from a climate science background and we welcome applications from candidates with non-traditional career paths. You must demonstrate significant project management and partnership experience, combining strategic thinking with hands-on delivery. You will be an excellent communicator with a flexible, solution focused approach, and keen to also contribute actively to the learning and culture of the wider JB team.

Experience And Skills

Essential

• A genuine and demonstrable interest in arts and culture, the role they can play in the climate crisis, and the sustainability challenges facing the sector. This needs to be partnered with a deep and demonstrable commitment to climate justice.

• Significant project management experience (at least 5-7 years), developed across mid-large scale programmes, freelance work, or a combination of both, with strong attention to detail across all stages of delivery.

• Demonstrable experience in leading the development of e-learning or online training, whether through content design, learning frameworks, and/or digital/UX production, or transferable experience and skills that could demonstrate you’ll be able to lead deliver this part of the role.

• A degree in environmental science/studies/management/sustainability or related area, or a cultural degree that includes environmental/sustainability intersections or evidence of equivalent relevant expertise.

• Demonstrable experience of partnership working with external organisations and stakeholders, including facilitation of groups across cultural or environmental contexts. Ideally with cultural practitioners, institutions and funders.

• Experience of running consultation and/or action research with cultural or environmental sector individuals and organisations.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly across different partners and audiences and, ideally, proven ability to translate complex datasets and environmental metrics into accessible, compelling copy.

• A proactive, flexible approach with the ability to manage multiple workstreams and a genuine curiosity and commitment to drawing out learning to support adaptive programme design.

Desirable

• Knowledge of the ACE investment portfolio and/or the wider publicly funded cultural sector

• Experience of successfully managing climate, environmental and/or justice projects, working in partnership with external organisations

• Developed experience working with freelance artists and creative organisations within networks or peer sharing contexts

• Experience of participatory or co-design/collaboration approaches to content development, facilitation and consultation.

Why Join Us?

At Julie’s Bicycle, you’ll join a passionate team working at the intersection of creativity and climate action. We offer a collaborative, inclusive, and flexible working culture, where your voice will shape how the cultural sector responds to one of the greatest challenges of our time. 

How to apply

If you’d like to apply, please: 

• Complete the application form and equal opportunities monitoring form found on our website.

Submit these via our application portal by 11.59pm on Sunday 17th of May 2026. We strongly encourage early applications as we may close the recruitment early if we have reached a sufficient number of viable applications.

Please note that this role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

We know job descriptions can feel daunting and that people who are from the global majority, from working class backgrounds, those without formal qualifications and some LGBTQ+ candidates are statistically less likely to apply even when they are well suited to a role.

If you read this JD and felt you *almost* matched (if you have built relevant skills through freelance work, lived experience, activism, organising or routes outside formal education) we very much want to hear from you! We also believe class is not defined by education or parental occupation alone. If you identify as working class by your current financial experience and lifestyle, that counts.

Our commitment to meeting underrepresented individuals in the sector:

Guaranteed Interview Scheme and Positive Action

As part of our ongoing commitment to building a team that better reflects the people, communities and causes we serve, we operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for disabled candidates, in line with the Equality Act 2010.

This scheme is available to candidates who identify as disabled (including under the social model of disability, encompassing physical, sensory, cognitive, mental health and long-term health conditions) and who can demonstrate within their application that they meet all of the essential criteria outlined in the job description. Candidates will be asked within the equal opportunities form whether they wish to be considered under this scheme. This information will be handled in confidence and will only be shared with those involved in the shortlisting process where necessary to apply the scheme.

We are committed to increasing the diversity of our workforce and recognise that some groups are underrepresented within our organisation and sector. We therefore actively encourage applications from people from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Where candidates are equally qualified, we may apply positive action in line with the Equality Act 2010 to select a candidate from an underrepresented group, where this is a proportionate means of addressing underrepresentation.

A note on AI

While we understand that some people may use AI tools for accessibility (and recognise and support that many assistive technologies may use elements of AI), we ask candidates to consider what tools are most appropriate during the application process. For example, we recognise the value for many people of machine learning language tools like Grammarly. On the other hand we would discourage the use of generative AI tools in writing your application, as we'd like to understand your personal interest in working for Julie's Bicycle, and be able to understand your non-AI-assisted communication skills just as they are. We also recognise that for many of the people and creative communities we work with, the rise of generative AI poses a threat to their livelihoods, while the environmental impacts of AI are only set to grow: this means we also have a responsibility as Julie's Bicycle to consider where and when (and if) we use AI in our work. 

Thank you for your interest in working at Julie’s Bicycle.

The Grants and Programmes Manager will manage the delivery of a portfolio of work within the Grants and Programmes function at Battersea. This is an exciting time for Battersea as we expand our work to impact more dogs and cats.
Over the coming five years it is planned that the size and complexity of our activities will grow, including the establishment of several multi-year programmes in the UK and abroad.

This is a senior role within the Grants and Programmes team in the Global Programmes Directorate, requiring excellent experience of people management, strategic leadership and good grant making practice.

The successful postholder should be comfortable making proposals, suggesting alternative approaches and solutions, supporting the contributions of others, and advancing the collective interests of a team. They should also be comfortable working with considerable scope, and complexity and nurturing relationships with colleagues and external partners as an integral element of the role. The successful postholder should be able to develop and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders, to pose and field questions of considerable complexity and sensitivity and use discretion in carrying out a constructive and effective dialogue; they will be comfortable with proposing ideas, engaging in productive debate, supporting the contributions of others, and in other ways advancing Battersea’s strategic interests.

What we can offer you:
In return for your commitment to our cause and to recognise the value of our employees, Battersea offers a range of benefits to support the wellbeing of our employees. These include:

• 28 days of annual leave (plus 8 days paid public holidays) per year
• Discounted gym membership and cycle to work schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources
• Generous pension contributions - up to 10% employer contribution
• Free healthcare cash plan, where you can claim for a range of treatment including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture every year
• Annual interest-free season ticket loans

We are also committed to providing learning and development to our employees. During your time with us, we provide support for your professional and career development, including access to digital and in-person training programmes, leadership and management training, mentoring and much more.

Our hybrid working model:
We operate a 50% onsite hybrid working model, with our office-based staff splitting their time between site based and home working. This enables our office-based staff to balance the benefits of home working with onsite collaboration and maintaining a connection to our cause.

Diversity and inclusion:
We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for all staff, volunteers and trustees and those hoping to join us. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process and actively seek to ensure our process is fair and equitable for all.

We understand the value of diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences to help us deliver even more for our dogs and cats, and we welcome applicants from all sections of the community.

As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best. If you would like to talk more about this, please contact us. Greyscale copies of the recruitment pack are also available on request.

More about us:
At Battersea, we aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help. We give each one lots of love, expert care and get to know their characters and quirks so we can find them a new home that’s just right for them. Join us and help us be here for every dog and cat, wherever they are, for as long as they need us.

Acceptable use of AI:
At Battersea, we value expertise. We recognise each candidate that applies to us will have a range of expertise they can offer us, so we want to hear about this in your own words. We understand the support that generative artificial intelligence (AI) software can offer but it can also lead to numerous applications presenting as generic and impersonal. This makes it difficult to gain understanding of your unique experience.

To best showcase yourself, we encourage you to write your responses without the assistance of AI. If you require the use of AI software to aid in completing your application, we ask you use the generative responses as a prompt for writing your answers and avoid copying and pasting. You must also ensure the information presented in your application accurately reflects your experience.

Closing Date: 3rd May 2026
All applications must be submitted before the closing date advertised. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received.

Interview Details:

• First Stage: Online (via MS Teams) with a task to complete. The task will be shared when invited to interview - w/c 18th May 2026
• Second Stage: In Person - Date to be confirmed

For full details on the role, please download the recruitment pack.

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 !

Carers First is a charity that works directly with, and for unpaid carers, providing personalised information, advice and tailored support making it easier for those caring for someone else to continue living their lives to the fullest.

We have a committed, dedicated staff team and you could be just the person we are looking for to join us to make that valuable difference in carer’s lives. We live and work through our values in all that we achieve by being positive, collaborative and ambitious and we have clear plans to scale our reach, support and impact for carers.

About this role

As a Team Lead your responsibilities would include:

• Provide day-to-day leadership, motivating and empowering the team to thrive.
• Recruit, develop, and support staff in line with Carers First policies.
• Foster a positive culture of continuous learning, role-modelling best practice.
• Ensure quality through record checks, accurate database input, KPI monitoring, and effective workflow allocation.
• Work in co-production with carers to identify needs, develop solutions, and shape services.
• Identify service gaps, create new initiatives, and seek additional funding where possible.
• Manage a small caseload of complex cases, providing personalised advice and support.
• Contribute to budget monitoring and updates.

About you

To be successful in this role you will need:

• Experience of leading and managing remote teams, empowering and developing individuals.
• Strong track record of building partnerships across health and social care.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in service delivery.
• Experience of person-centred assessments, co-produced support plans, and safeguarding.
• Ability to work in co-production, developing innovative approaches to meet carers’ needs.
• Skilled in building positive relationships with colleagues and stakeholders at all levels.
• Confident in using Microsoft Office, mobile technology, and social media platforms.
• Experience of using databases to record interventions and manage workflows.
• Personal integrity, emotional resilience, and alignment with the charity’s values.
• Self-motivated, flexible, collaborative, and able to maintain a healthy work/life balance.

We are looking for passionate people who are committed to the overall aims and objectives of the Charity. Carers First is committed to providing a supportive, vibrant, diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

Carers First Can Offer You

In return for your contribution, we have an amazing package of staff benefits including 26 days annual leave entitlement which increases with length of service, flexible working options, paid carers leave, access to our work-place pension, staff discount scheme, employee assistance programme and a Benenden Healthcare package. 

Whatever you are aiming to achieve in your career, we are here to encourage, help and support you grow, through our excellent training and development programmes.

How to apply

To apply for our exciting opportunity and make a real difference to the lives of carers, please download our Candidate Pack and click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to begin your application.

Applications can only be assessed if they clearly state how you meet each of the requirements in the Personal Specification.

Appointments are subject to Carers First receiving an appropriate disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service that we consider acceptable.

Interview Process

Following shortlisting, successful candidates will be contacted directly and invited to interview - Date to be confirmed.

Carers First is an Equal Opportunities Employer   

Positive      Collaborative      Ambitious