Employment retention specialist jobs in London, greater london

ABOUT CITY HARVEST

Est. 2014, City Harvest London food charity rescues nutritious surplus food from farms,

manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers, and delivers it, for free, to over 130,000 people a

week via organisations feeding those facing food poverty. Our HQ depot is in Acton, with a

satellite site at New Covent Garden Market. City Harvest rescues food, people, and the

planet by diverting food waste and providing life-changing support to communities across

London.

Distributing free food for more than 1.3 million meals a month, our fleet of vans deliver to

food banks, homeless shelters, hostels, soup kitchens, mental health charities, projects

supporting the elderly and socially isolated, social pantries, community kitchens, refugee

hostels, schools and nurseries, family centres and domestic abuse refuges. Join our passionate mission to reduce waste and feed London, with opportunities to grow while

making a real difference.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The lead and deliver integrated communications that build the charity’s profile, deepen engagement and support income generation. This role will develop compelling narratives, manage key channels, and ensure consistent, high-quality messaging across all audiences.

Key stakeholder comms

• Brand management - responsible for all branded marketing communications, across socials, website, marketing materials, event presentations, media, and partner comms.
• Campaigns - creating content for various annual fundraising, volunteer, and food-sourcing campaigns.
• Digital campaign marketing.
• Content creation - design trusted content to achieve organic reach, with broad messaging to support department KPIs, volunteer and donor engagement
• Website management.
• Press coverage - reactive press office management, press release writing, image archiving.
• Run GDPR compliant email marketing campaigns.
• Internal comms – responsible for the staff newsletter.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Brand management
• Social media management
• Campaign management
• Newsletters - Mailchimp
• Content creation/ archiving
• Press office
• Creation of marketing materials
• Managing budget
• Website updating/editorial
• Managing third-party website support & SEO specialist

KEY DELIVERABLES

Collaboration

• Internal comms: Ensuring consistency in appearance, accuracy, and tone across all
• communications between departments.
• Newsletter management for internal comms and external stakeholders.
• External comms: Ensure CH is recognisable by partners and stakeholders, with a quality
• brand consistently applied across all materials, including its use by partner organisations.
• Manage stakeholder partnerships: PR, press releases, event materials, branding.

Support

• Cultivate good working relationships with all teams to ensure alignment with our core marketing and communication strategies.
• Assist all departments in their internal and external communications needs
• Ensure consistency and timely delivery of events and communications plans
• Orchestrate digital content strategies across all online platforms to drive traffic and engagement that translates to brand promotion and donor acquisition.
• Oversee the editorial calendar, including internal and external teams, supporting all department KPIs and campaigns.

Fundraising focus

• Assist in the delivery of the City Harvest fundraising strategy, including corporate partnerships involving charity of the year’s programmes and cause-related marketing campaigns.
• Showcase corporate partnerships across the website and socials to attract new business.
• Promote challenge events, individual giving campaigns and corporate volunteering.
• Work with the fundraising team on large annual campaigns such as The Big Give
• Understand and create impactful supporter journeys across awareness, engagement, donation and retention.
• Ability to tie communications directly to impact & income.
• External newsletter highlighting fundraising.

Campaigns

• Clear and compelling content creation to meet the needs of the organisation’s targets.
• Measure and report on the performance of marketing campaigns, gain insight and assess against goals.
• Balance short-term campaigns with long-term brand building.
• Plan timelines and content calendars.
• Deliver to deadlines often with last-minute changes.
• Ability to use data insights to inform decision-making and future approach/design.

Financial responsibility

You will be responsible for managing the digital marketing budget, in line with the organisation’s scheme of delegation and financial procedures.

Organisation-wide responsibility

• Comply with relevant equality and diversity policies, promoting a healthy working environment where all individuals are valued.
• Comply with relevant data protection policies, ensuring General Data Protection
• Regulations (GDPR) are considered when making plans and decisions.
• Work as part of a wider team, undertaking any other reasonable duties appropriate for the role that may be required by the organisation.

ABOUT YOU

• Sympathetic to and aligned with City Harvest’s mission.
• Emotional intelligence often involves working with sensitive topics, internal pressure and competing priorities
• All-rounder and self-starter.
• Creative and able to create content with ease.
• Ability to push back diplomatically and maintain boundaries even with leadership.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• 3+ years’ experience in a similar role
• Strong time-management and organisational skills
• Experience with online community building
• Proficient with Canva
• Brand management experience
• Content marketing with GA knowledge
• Experience across a range of roles across the communications and marketing mix
• Strong copy writer and attention to detail
• Great ethical storytelling for supporter engagement
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to build healthy work relationships
• Ability to cope and work well with high work volumes, conflicting priorities and tight deadlines
• Problem-solving skills and positive, proactive "can-do" attitude
• Technological proficiency in relevant software – e.g. proficiency in Microsoft Office,
• Experience working with Outlook, and Google products etc.

DESIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Communications & marketing experience gained within the third sector
• Fundraising communications experience or working alongside fundraising teams
• Experience of public relations
• Ability to interpret data analysis and evaluate campaigns
• Ability to assess and advise on any reputational risk, including sensitive stories and issues

QUALITIES REQUIRED FOR SUCCESS AT CITY HARVEST

• Charitable
• Compassionate
• Community-focused
• Aspiring
• Trustworthy
• Collaborative team player

JOB DETAILS

• Job Type: Full-time, permanent, Monday to Friday
• Hours of Work: 9-5pm / 40 hours per week (with a 30-minute unpaid lunch break each day)
• Salary: £37,500 per annum
• Place of Work: Hybrid, 2 days in the office (Unit 8, Acton Park Industrial Estate, London, W3 7QE)

City Harvest London is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We believe in treating all employees, volunteers, candidates, and stakeholders with fairness and respect. We value the unique perspectives and experiences that individuals from different backgrounds bring to our organisation, and we strive to foster an environment that promotes equal opportunities for all.

We adhere to the Equality Act 2010, and our policy is to be fair and consistent in all aspects of our organisation. Our recruitment and selection processes are designed to select candidates based on their abilities and merits to perform the tasks required. All applications received will be dealt with confidentially and subject to our company's recruitment and selection processes. Employment is subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks and eligibility to live and work in the UK.

At City Harvest London, we embrace equality as part of our ways of working because we believe it is the right thing to do for our people, our community, and our success. We do not discriminate in employment based on race, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, political affiliation, disability, age, marital status, medical history, parental status, or genetic information.

An exciting opportunity to play a central role in campaigns and communications that secure funding to help young people to thrive. At a time of real growth for our charity, we are looking for a Campaigns & Communications Manager to join our team. You will plan and deliver two major annual appeals, grow our monthly donor programme, and create compelling communications that deepen supporter engagement and reflect the integrity of our work with young people.

What is Jamie’s Farm?  Jamie’s Farm is a charity that supports young people by combining therapeutic work, farming, and purposeful activities to help them thrive. Through residential visits to our working farms, we provide a nurturing environment where young people can reflect, build confidence, and develop the resilience they need to overcome personal challenges.  As part of the dynamic HQ team we offer a beautiful and unique supportive working environment, a competitive salary, and the opportunity to be part of a team that is passionate about making a real difference.

More about the role:  As Campaigns & Communications Manager you will plan, coordinate and deliver campaigns that engage supporters and drive income. You will develop email journeys, digital content and supporter pathways that grow our monthly donor programme into a sustainable income stream. Alongside this, you will lead the creation of high-quality fundraising communications - from donor updates and impact stories to campaign collateral and web content - ensuring all storytelling is ethical, warm and true to who we are.

Location : Jamie's Farm Bath (HQ) preferred but other Jamie’s Farm locations considered (London, Lewes, Hereford, Monmouth, Skipton)

About you:  We are looking for someone with proven experience delivering multi-channel campaigns that drive income - whether through fundraising appeals, matched funding campaigns, or other income-generating programmes. You will also have experience growing an individual giving, monthly donor or membership programme. You will be an exceptional copywriter, able to communicate impact with clarity and warmth, and understand the importance of representing young people responsibly and with dignity.

A confident project manager, you are highly organised and able to juggle multiple deadlines, coordinate stakeholders and keep campaigns on track. You are comfortable using data and insight to optimise performance, and bring a proactive, solutions-focused mindset to everything you do.

This role could suit someone with broader marketing and communications experience including income generating campaigns, who is interested in applying their skills in a fundraising/nonprofit context.

Please see the full job description, desired experience and employee benefits by exploring our recruitment pack below. Don’t meet every single requirement? We’d still love to hear from you – your unique skills and experience could be just what we’re looking for.

Barnet Mencap is a charity based in Finchley supporting people with learning disabilities and autistic people across Barnet. Through our Bright Futures Employment Programme, we support individuals into meaningful employment, training, and long-term independence.

We are looking for a motivated and outcome-focused Employment Officer to join our team.

This role is centred on supporting individuals into sustained employment, managing a caseload of learners, and working directly with employers to create real opportunities.

The Role

You will:

• Manage a caseload of learners and support them into work
• Deliver 1:1 employability support and job club sessions
• Support CV writing, applications, and interview preparation
• Build relationships with employers and identify opportunities
• Support individuals in the workplace where needed
• Track outcomes and maintain accurate records

This is a results-driven role, focused on real job outcomes, not just engagement.

 The Candidate

You will have:

• Experience working with people with learning disabilities and/or autistic people
• Understanding of barriers to employment
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• Ability to motivate and support individuals
• Experience delivering structured support (desirable: employment programmes)

 What We Offer

• 30 days annual leave (pro rata, including Bank Holidays)
• TOIL system and flexible working approach
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunity to be part of a high-impact employment programme

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria on the person specification.

The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service application in line with Section 115 of The Police Act 1997.  

Closing Date: Friday 15th May 2026

Interview Date: We will review applications as they come in and offer interviews to those who meet the criteria. 

About Working Well Trust 

Working Well Trust is a mental health and employment charity in London. All of our projects share the aim of improving the lives of people with mental health support needs, learning disabilities and/or complex issues through training and employment. 

We are now recruiting IPS Employment Advisors to join our IPS service to join our Kingston & Sutton team. This is a full-time, permanent role working 35 hours per week, following the principles of the IPS model to support people into paid employment. Please note that if you have previously applied for this role, we will not be considering repeat applications on this occasion.

What you’ll be doing 

If you were working with us, your days would be varied and people-centred. You would manage a caseload of clients with mental health support needs, people experiencing homelessness, and people with offending histories, offering one-to-one support to help them secure and sustain employment that matches their preferences. 

You would provide person-centred guidance using the IPS approach (training is provided), helping clients build confidence, prepare for work, and navigate challenges that may arise. A key part of the role involves engaging employers, promoting the value of our service, and identifying suitable job opportunities.

You would work closely with NHS clinical teams, contributing to an integrated approach to recovery through employment. This includes attending team meetings, coordinating support, and maintaining clear, client-led communication. The role also involves working to agreed targets while maintaining a high-quality, supportive service. 

What you’ll need 

You do not need previous employment support experience. What matters most is that you bring: 

• A genuine desire to support people with mental health support needs and/or learning disabilities to achieve their employment goals. 

• Motivation to help people from all backgrounds move into meaningful work. 

• Confidence speaking with a wide range of people, from clients to employers. 

• Strong organisation skills, with the ability to multitask and manage your workload. 

• Willingness to learn the IPS model and become confident approaching employers. 

We welcome applications from people with lived experience of mental health, personally or through a close contact. 

What we offer 

• 30 days annual leave plus public holidays (FTE) 

• Paid company closed days at the end of the year (FTE) 

• Flexible, paid Wellbeing Hour every fortnight (FTE) 

• 6% employer pension contribution 

Working Well Trust is an equal opportunities employer and Confident about Disabilities. 

What’s next 

Before you apply, please note the following: 

• We actively recruit and carefully review all applications. Due to rapid service expansion, we have onboarded 20 external hires in the last six months. 

• To ensure we can best support the people and communities we serve, we progress applications only where candidates provide meaningful answers to the screening questions. 

• Career development is real here: in the past year, 10 colleagues have progressed internally into Senior roles, Project Lead, Team Lead, and Operations Manager positions. We value ambition and celebrate progression. 

If you are ready to help us build a service that supports people into meaningful work, click Apply to submit your CV and answer the screening questions. Telephone and final interviews will be confirmed. 

Start your application today and take the next step in a rewarding career. 

About Working Well Trust

Working Well Trust is a mental health and employment charity in London. All of our projects share the aim of improving the lives of people with mental health support needs, learning disabilities and/or complex issues through training and employment.

We are now recruiting for a role providing focused, time-limited information, advice and guidance to individuals experiencing mental health challenges, supporting them to return to, remain in, or move towards employment, with a particular focus on engaging those facing multiple and intersecting barriers to work.

This is a full-time, permanent role working 35 hours per week.

What you’ll be doing

If you were working with us, you would be:

• Managing a varied caseload of clients, providing tailored information, advice and guidance to support their employment goals
• Working collaboratively with clients to identify their individual needs and the level of support required
• Developing clear, realistic Action Plans with clients, and reviewing these regularly to reflect progress and changing circumstances
• Supporting clients to address workplace challenges, helping them to return to work, remain in employment, or secure new roles
• Monitoring and tracking progress towards agreed employment outcomes, ensuring support remains focused and effective
• Enabling access to wider opportunities such as training, education, volunteering and other development pathways
• Making appropriate referrals to external services and partner organisations to ensure holistic support for clients

This role requires a proactive and person-centred approach, with a strong focus on achieving meaningful and sustainable employment outcomes.

What we offer

• 30 days annual leave plus public holidays (FTE) 
• Flexible, paid Wellbeing Hour every fortnight (FTE) 
• 35 hours working week
• 6% employer pension contribution 
• 1 day per week working from home subject to completion of Homeworking Checklist
• Supportive environment within a small, dedicated team
• Meaningful, rewarding work supporting people into employment
• Paid carers' leave available

Working Well Trust is an equal opportunities employer and Confident about Disabilities.

What’s next 

Before you apply, please note the following: 

• We actively recruit and carefully review all applications. Due to rapid service expansion, we have onboarded 20 external hires in the last six months. 

• To ensure we can best support the people and communities we serve, we progress applications only where candidates provide meaningful answers to the screening questions. 

• Career development is real here: in the past year, 10 colleagues have progressed internally into Senior roles, Project Lead, Team Lead, and Operations Manager positions. We value ambition and celebrate progression. 

If you are ready to help us build a service that supports people into meaningful work, click Apply to submit your CV and answer the screening questions. Telephone and final interviews will be confirmed. 

Start your application today and take the next step in a rewarding career. 

Leukaemia UK – Our Charity

We are a ‘small but mighty’ charity with one big ambition: to stop leukaemia devastating lives. Despite decades of incredible progress, only half of leukaemia patients live longer than five years after their diagnosis. We won't stop until we change this. 

We accelerate progress through the life-changing research, awareness and advocacy that matter most to people affected by leukaemia, doing everything we can to make sure that the next person with leukaemia has the best possible experience of diagnosis, treatment and care. 

We are looking for an experienced, driven and resourceful Head of HR and Operations, reporting to our Director of Finance and Resources. The role brings together delegated leadership for HR, Governance, Operations (Facilities, H&S, IT) and Risk management, working within the strategic direction set by the Director of Finance and Resources and CEO. We are transitioning from a historically outsourced HR model to a strengthened, inhouse HR and Operations function, to support delivery of our new five-year strategy.

Team  

We are a close-knit team, who are all passionate about Leukaemia UK and putting those affected by the disease at the heart of everything we do. We are all focused on ‘keeping it real’ with pragmatic, practical solutions, as well as ensuring that our charity gets the funding it needs to continue to help those diagnosed with leukaemia.

As a small organisation with just over 30 employees, every role counts. We have ambitious plans and we rely on individuals being self-starters, resilient and working at pace to maximise our collective impact. We may not be about the corporate life here, but we are all about delivering exceptional expertise and making a real change to people’s lives.

Leukaemia UK and You 

You will lead the development and delivery of People, Governance & Operations frameworks, aligned to the organisation’s strategy and under the direction of the Director of Finance and Resources. As a Head Of, you will contribute strategically as a specialist in your field, combining hands‑on operational delivery with a strong focus on continuous improvement. You will have the opportunity to help shape and embed new ways of working, improve processes and systems, and develop an important function that is fit to support an ambitious and growing charity. Delivery will be a team effort, with operational coordination and administrative delivery carried out by the Governance & Operations direct report, under your leadership.

Whilst the accountability is broad, we seek first and foremost a qualified and experienced HR professional, with a track record in a wide range of HR disciplines, working across a variety of stakeholders and managing a busy workload to deliver programmes of work. As part of this, we would expect a level of exposure and competence with regards to operations, governance and risk management. You will line‑manage and develop the Governance and Operations direct report, who provides administrative and coordination support across HR, governance, health & safety, facilities and IT activity.

In return, you will gain exposure to a broad range of organisational activity, work closely with senior leaders and teams, and play a key role in supporting Leukaemia UK’s next phase of strategic development.

Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Experience in managing a broad range of HR activities in a small or medium-sized charitable organisation.
• CIPD Qualified
• Proven experience of shaping HR strategy and implementation, with tangible outcomes.
• Business partner experience, to tailor HR support to the needs of different teams.
• Proven experience in shaping the culture and internal ways of working of an organisation, including expertise in EDIB and Wellbeing.
• Proven experience in organisational design and change management
• Excellent knowledge of UK Employment Law and how to embed this into HR policy.
• Proven experience in advising on Employee Relations to reach fair and just outcomes.
• Sufficient knowledge to oversee and review the Comp and Benefits framework.
• Proven experience in providing learning and development solutions to meet internal needs.
• Experience of line managing staff and supporting their development.
• Effective communication skills (written and oral), ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, strong stakeholder management and facilitation skills.
• Effective planning and work prioritision skills to balance strategic and project work with hands on delivery and line management.
• Comfortable working in a part time role with clear priorities and boundaries.
• Resilient and resourceful to navigate through and embed organisational and process change
• Able to demonstrate our charities values of being bold, collaborative and curious.
• Discrete and trustworthy with high levels of integrity.
• Strong IT skills, including Office 365 and SharePoint.

Desirable:

• Governance experience
• Risk management experience
• Level of exposure to Health and Safety obligations
• Management of outsourced service providers.
• Willingness to identify, test and apply appropriate technology and AI tools to streamline processes.

Role Specifics

• 22.5  hours per week (0.6 FTE) worked over 4-5 days, Monday to Friday.

• Location: We are very flexible! Our offices are based in Central London, and we operate hybrid working.  In this role you are required to work from the office at least 1 day per week.
• FTE Salary range £60,000 dependent on experience (pro-rata for part time)
• We are proud of our benefits – see a summary on our website Work with us - Leukaemia UK

Benefits 

• 36 days holiday per year, including bank holidays- pro rata for part time employees
• Pension – default is 4% employee and 4% employer and we match up to 6%
• Life Assurance – x 4 cover
• Critical Illness Cover
• Cash back healthcare scheme & Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Hybrid Working- 1 day in the office per week
• Company sick pay

Applications and interview timings  

If you feel you have the passion for our work and the right mix of experience, skills, energy, and flair, then we would love you to apply. Please also see the full job description attached to the advert. 

To minimise unconscious bias, we use anonymous recruitment and are unable to consider direct applications. Please apply via the CharityJob website with your CV and covering letter.

Closing Date: Midnight Tuesday 12th May 2026

- First interviews will be held via Teams on Thursday 21st May 2026

- Second interviews will be face to face in our London Offices – at 26 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5BL on Wednesday 27th May 2026 

I look forward to hearing from you! 

Azra

Azra Karaselimovic

Director of Finance and Resources

Leukaemia UK

Harris Hill is delighted to be supporting Consumers International in their search for a Strategic Growth and Engagement Lead, Sustainability. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who wants real ownership in their role—where you can take an idea, build it, and run with it on a global stage.

Working at the heart of Consumers International’s sustainability programme, you will drive partnerships, funding and influence across areas such as energy, materials and food systems. This is not a role focused on maintaining the status quo; instead, you’ll have the freedom and trust to shape new opportunities, test ideas and deliver growth that creates genuine global impact, with scope to truly make the role your own.

Key responsibilities

· Build and manage a strong pipeline of global funding and partnership opportunities

· Develop compelling proposals and innovative partnership models

· Lead on relationship management and supporting partners in their Change Network ( you can view here.)

· Shape and deliver a growth strategy for the sustainability programme

· Represent the organisation at international events and forums

· Create opportunities for global members to engage, collaborate and influence

About you

· Proven experience in partnerships, fundraising or business development

· Track record of securing income from foundations, corporates or multilateral organisations

· Experience working across international and cross-sector environments

· A strategic and proactive mindset, with the ability to spot opportunities and run with them

· Strong communication, influencing and relationship-building skills

· A genuine interest in sustainability and systems change

Key details

Salary: Up to £50,000

Location: Fully remote – open to candidates globally

Contract: Full-time

Applications: Rolling basis – please apply ASAP as applications are reviewed weekly

Apply to Hannah at Harris Hill to learn more and get the full job pack

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics

We are opening a new children's residential home and supported living service, and we are looking for a Registered Manager to lead it. This is a rare opportunity to establish a service from the very beginning — building the team, embedding the culture, and setting the standards that will shape the experience of every child who comes through the door.

If you are an experienced Registered Manager, or a Deputy ready to step up, who genuinely cares about the lives of children with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs — we would love to hear from you.

About Us

Striving For Independence Care Solutions (SFI) is a values-driven provider of care homes, supported living, and domiciliary care services across Brent, Harrow, and the surrounding areas. We are now expanding into children's residential and supported living provision for children and young people with learning disabilities, autism, and complex needs.

Our focus is simple: to deliver high-quality, person-centred care that empowers children and young people to live safe, fulfilling, and meaningful lives. We specialise in supporting individuals transitioning from family homes, hospital settings, assessment and treatment units, and other specialist placements — creating stable, nurturing community environments.

The Opportunity

As Registered Manager, you will:

• Establish and shape a brand new children's home and supported living service

• Lead and develop a high-performing, child-centred team

• Drive quality, compliance, and outcomes for children with complex needs

• Prepare for and lead Ofsted inspections, with the aim of achieving and maintaining Good or Outstanding ratings

• Work closely with senior leadership, with real influence over service development and growth

This is a key leadership appointment with progression potential to Responsible Individual or Operations Manager as the service grows.

What You'll Do

Lead with vision and integrity

• Create a safe, nurturing, and therapeutic home culture

• Be a strong advocate for children and young people

• Empower your team to deliver child-centred, outcome-focused care

• Embed therapeutic approaches such as Positive Behaviour Support and trauma-informed care

Own Ofsted compliance and readiness

• Register with and act as the Ofsted Registered Manager

• Ensure full compliance with the Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards

• Lead and prepare for Ofsted inspections

• Drive continuous improvement to achieve and maintain Good or Outstanding ratings

Champion safeguarding and care excellence

• Lead safeguarding practice and promote a strong safeguarding culture

• Oversee care planning, risk management, and reviews

• Ensure safe medication practices and accurate record keeping

Build, develop, and retain your team

• Recruit, lead, and develop a high-performing staff team

• Conduct supervisions, appraisals, and performance management

• Support staff development including Level 3 and Level 5 pathways

• Build a positive, inclusive, and accountable team culture

Operate the service effectively

• Manage rotas, ensure safe staffing levels, and oversee budgets

• Monitor KPIs, service quality, and outcomes

• Build strong relationships with Local Authorities, Commissioners, families, and professionals

• Participate in the on-call rota (shared across the leadership team)

What You'll Bring

Essential

• Experience as a Registered Manager or Deputy Manager in a children's residential setting

• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or working towards)

• Strong, current knowledge of Ofsted regulations and Children's Homes legislation

• Proven leadership and team management experience

• Strong safeguarding knowledge and instinct

• Full UK driving licence

Desirable

• Experience supporting children with learning disabilities, autism, and complex needs

• Track record of achieving or maintaining Good/Outstanding Ofsted ratings

• Knowledge of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and trauma-informed practice

• Experience of opening or developing a new service

What We Offer

• Salary £35,000 – £40,000 (depending on experience)

• Discretionary performance bonus linked to Ofsted outcomes, occupancy, staff retention, and service quality — taking total package potential to circa £45,000+

• Clear progression path to Responsible Individual or Operations Manager roles

• 28 days annual leave (including bank holidays)

• Ongoing training and funded qualifications

• Supportive senior leadership team and direct access to the Director

• Referral bonus scheme

• The genuine opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up

Our Values

We are looking for someone who shares our commitment to:

• Quality and continuous improvement

• Compassion and child-centred care

• Dignity and respect

• Trust, teamwork, and accountability

Safeguarding

SFI is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All roles are subject to enhanced DBS checks and safer recruitment processes.

Ready to apply?

Click "Apply Now" to submit your application. Please include a CV with full employment history and a cover letter explaining your interest in this role and what you would bring to a brand new service.

We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis — early applications are encouraged. Interviews will be held during the week commencing 18 May 2026.

Join us in shaping high-quality children's services and making a lasting difference.

Role/Job Title: Head of Kent Services
Location: Pembury, with travel between services as required 
Contracted Hours Full time -37 hours per week (Mon-Fri)
Salary: £55,000 - £65,000 per annum FTE

Application Deadline Date:  Friday 24th May 2026 / Interviews to take place at Cornford Lane site (Pembury) on Wednesday 10th June
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

FULL JOB DESCRIPTION

Equal Opportunity/Accessibility and Accommodations Statement:
As a Disability Confident employer, Aspens Charities is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities. We actively promote the recruitment, retention, and career development of people with disabilities, recognising the invaluable contributions they make to our organisation. We are dedicated to ensuring an accessible recruitment process for all candidates. If you require any accommodations during the application or interview process, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Aspens’ mission is to provide high-quality care and support to individuals on the autism spectrum and with learning disabilities; meeting their needs and aspirations and empowering them to learn and grow through an integrated network of services across the South-East.

We provide support and care to children, families and adults across Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex, Brighton and Hove, Surrey and the London Borough of Bexley. Our services include registered care homes; supported living; community outreach; day services, including pathways to employment; children and young people’s groups and support; specialist support; and free online support for families and carers across the South-East.
 

About the role:
This is a tremendously exciting time to join Aspens. With our new Chief Operating Officer in place, we are actively shaping how we work to ensure we deliver the very best for the people we support. Her focus and ambition are centred on establishing consistent, high-quality practice across the organisation and ensuring that everything we do enhances, in a meaningful and measurable way, the lives of those we support.
 

The Head of Kent Services is a leadership role responsible for the strategic, operational, and financial oversight of services within Kent, currently residential services for adults with autism and/or learning disabilities, supported living services, and services for children and families across Kent.

The postholder will ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality, person-centred care and support that promotes autonomy, dignity, inclusion, and positive outcomes for individuals and families. The Head of Kent Services will lead and develop a small team of locality managers ensuring regulatory compliance, financial sustainability, and continuous service improvement across the portfolio.

The Head of Kent Services will be a member of the Inclusive Executive Leadership Team, working in collaboration with other leaders to drive the best outcomes for the People we Support and the Charity.

 

Knowledge and Experience:

We’re looking for someone who brings a combination of the following experiences, whether gained through formal roles, lived experience, volunteering or other pathways.  We value diverse routes into leadership and welcome applications from individuals who may not have followed traditional career paths.

Essential Experience:

• Significant senior management experience in health and social care.
• Proven leadership experience managing CQC Registered Managers.
• Strong knowledge of autism and learning disability support models.
• Experience managing budgets and financial performance.
• Demonstrable experience of regulatory compliance and inspection processes.
• Experience working with commissioners and local authorities.
• Experience managing large-scale change programmes.
• Significant experience in building team capability and managing complex employee relations.
   

Essential Skills & Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and operational delivery capability.
• Strong financial acumen.

• Experience overseeing impactful, outcomes-driven services at a strategic level.

• Strong project and programme management skills.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent analytical and data interpretation skills.
• High-level communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage complexity and drive change.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability.
• Ability to build and sustain relationships, with trust and integrity
  
  
   

Desirable:

• Relevant professional qualification in health or social care (Level 5 or above).
• Experience overseeing multiple residential and/or supported living services.
• Experience in service mobilisation or turnaround.
• Experience with Positive Behaviour Support at strategic level.
   

Core Values & Leadership Expectations:

• Commitment to person-centred, rights-based and autonomy approaches.
• Passion for inclusion, dignity, and empowerment.
• Dedication to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
• Evidence-informed decision-making.
• High levels of integrity, resilience, and accountability.

• Reflective, open to feedback and committed to continuous learning
• Brings authenticity, empathy and a collaborative spirit
  
   

What we can offer you:

• An exciting and rewarding role that you can really make your own
• An opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive environment, with formal and informal training and development initiatives.
• Member of the Inclusive Executive Leadership Team.
• Hybrid working
• Adjusted Hours or compressed working weeks
• Fantastic paid training and career progression opportunities (including recognised qualifications in health and social care)
• Paid DBS 
• Annual Leave / Pro rata dependent on hours. Annual leave entitlement increases with length of service
• Nest Pension and Death in Service Benefit
• Dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and Access to Mental Health First Aiders
• Aspens High Street Stores -20% discount on all items for Aspens’ staff
• Bluebell cafe- Discounted staff menu available
• Refer a Friend scheme, so you can earn up to £250 for every person you refer to work for Aspens
• Recognition schemes, including ‘Employee of the Month’
• Wellbeing initiatives such as: no email/meeting Fridays, no meetings over lunchtime to ensure people can take a break, encouraged not to read or reply to emails outside of working hours, and access to counselling

If shortlisted, we will contact you directly to schedule an interview. We strive to respond to all applicants; however, if you have not received a response within a reasonable timeframe, please feel free to contact us for a status update or feedback (where available). After the interview, you will be notified of the outcome. If successful, you’ll receive a formal offer in writing. Upon acceptance, we’ll guide you through the onboarding process, providing you with all the details you need.

Please note, any offer of employment will be subject to Disclosure and Barring checks (which we will arrange on your behalf if you don’t already have one) and satisfactory employment references.

The role  

As a Senior Researcher, you will take a leading role in our research programmes with parliamentarians and journalists, while also contributing to our work with the general public and bespoke client projects. You will act as a trusted partner to clients and a point of guidance for junior colleagues. 

You will lead on our nfpPolitics programmes – quarterly surveys of 100 MPs and an annual survey of 100 members of the House of Lords, plus annual surveys of MSPs in Scotland, MSs in Wales and MLAs in Northern Ireland. These programmes give charity clients clear, evidence-based insight into how they are seen at Westminster and in the devolved parliaments: tracking awareness of organisations and their campaigns, the actions parliamentarians have taken in response, and how effective they consider those organisations to be. Subscribers also receive unfiltered open comments from parliamentarians and access to broader political intelligence data – covering what MPs see as the biggest challenges facing the sector, the factors that influence whether they will support a campaign, and which organisations have impressed them in Parliament. 

You will also oversee nfpPress, our annual survey of 150 UK journalists across print, digital and broadcast media. This gives charity communications teams systematic insight into how the media perceives them and their work – not just whether journalists know who they are, but whether they want to work with them, and what would make them more likely to. 

Alongside this tracking work, you will contribute to a varied portfolio of bespoke projects for individual charity clients – from applicant perception research for funders, to supporter benchmarking and message testing. In practice, this means working across a wide range of topics and methodologies, helping charities make better strategic decisions. 

Description of responsibilities and opportunities: 

· Leading our nfpPolitics Westminster programme: quarterly surveys of 100 MPs and an annual survey of 100 members of the House of Lords, including questionnaire design, fieldwork management, analysis and client debriefs 

· Leading our nfpPolitics Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland programmes: annual surveys of MSPs, Members of the Senedd and MLAs 

· Overseeing nfpPress: our annual survey of 150 UK journalists across print, digital and broadcast media 

· Managing a portfolio of client accounts across the Professional Audiences monitors – advising clients on their results, responding to requests for analysis, and supporting retention 

· Contributing to the design and delivery of bespoke projects for a wide range of charity clients, spanning applicant perception research, supporter benchmarking, message testing and audience insight work 

· Writing and presenting client reports and debrief presentations, with clear conclusions and actionable recommendations 

· Line management of a Research Officer or Research Assistant: writing objectives, conducting appraisals and supporting their professional development 

· Contributing to business development, including helping to scope and write proposals and participating in pitch meetings 

· Contributing to the broader life of the company, including our monthly Knowledge Meeting, company blog and Insights events 

Who we are looking for:  

This post would be ideally suited to a researcher with at least three years’ experience in a market research or social research role, with a strong interest in the non-profit sector and the professional audiences it works with – whether parliamentarians, journalists, funders or specialist communities. 

Essential: 

· Minimum three years’ previous professional research experience, ideally in market research, social research or a consultancy setting 

· Experience of managing research projects or programmes with a high degree of independence 

· Experience of managing clients or other external relationships 

· Experience of presenting in a professional context 

· Strong quantitative research skills, including excellent data literacy, survey design and data visualisation 

· Analytical skills and ability to interpret research, and explain what it means for a range of different audiences – both verbally and in writing 

· A strong interest in politics, media or public affairs, and an understanding of how non-profits engage with these arenas 

· A strong interest in, and preferably experience of, charities and not-for-profits 

Desirable: 

· Experience of research with specialist or professional audiences (such as parliamentarians, journalists, healthcare professionals or funders) 

· Experience of conducting qualitative research (interviews, focus groups or similar) 

· Keen interest or experience of the not-for-profit sector in one of our international markets (Ireland, Canada or the US) 

· Experience of line managing or mentoring more junior colleagues 

· Experience of using R, SPSS or Displayr 

In addition, we also like to see the following soft skills in all our staff:  

· Strong verbal and written communication skills 

· Excellent time management and organisational skills 

· Self-motivated, hardworking and proactive 

· Enthusiastic, personable and with a sense of humour 

· Ability to work collaboratively and flexibly as part of a team 

What nfpResearch delivers to you:  

· A varied and senior role at the UK’s leading research consultancy working exclusively in the not-for-profit sector 

· The opportunity to lead research that shapes how charities engage with Parliament, the media and their audiences 

· The chance to be an integral part of a small and dynamic company  

· 25 days paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays and days between Christmas and New Year 

· Training for the MRS Advanced Certificate qualification and a bonus if you pass the exam 

Who we are

Every year, thousands of people in the UK face court alone. Often through no choice of their own, people must represent themselves at a moment that could have life-changing outcomes. This includes loss of access to children or homelessness. At the same time, people facing court alone may find themselves up against a party with legal representation. They are instantly at a disadvantage and overwhelmed by the enormity of the challenges they are up against. We supported unrepresented litigants in the civil and family courts in England and Wales over 45,000 times last year.

We provide a safe space with volunteers who listen to each client’s individual story. Last year, over 1000 volunteers helped people to get their thoughts in order, problem-solve and decide next steps, source relevant and reliable legal information, explain complex procedures, complete court forms, and clearly present statements.

At a time when legal support is increasingly limited, we have a vision that no one should have to face court alone.

To make this vision a reality, we have a focused communications strategy to ensure the charity has the brand, reach and impact it needs to connect with unrepresented court users and engage supporters.

Who we're looking for

Ambitious, professional, committed and friendly. That describes us. If it also describes you and you have a passion for designing and iplementing volunteer training programmes, then we’re keen to hear from you.

We’re looking for a Triage Project Lead to join our team on a 6-month contract. You’ll be leading on a project to improve the way in which we triage our clients across our services, with a focus on supporting survivors of domestic abuse better, by enabling our volunteers to identify them earlier in the process and respond accordingly, incorporating a trauma-informed approach.

The role

The Triage Project Lead will be based in the service department, and you’ll be supported by the Head of Service Delivery. 

We’re open to applications from professionals with experience of designing and implementing effective traiging processes who are able to work remotely, and undertake some travel to our offices across England and Wales.

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter about why you're the right person for the role via Charity Job.

Please note, that we have two roles advertised, both of which are short-term contracts and could be held by the same person, running the projects consecutively. You may wish to apply for both positions, and if that is the case please only complete one application, detailing clearly in the application that you are applying for both roles.