69 External relations and advocacy manager jobs

The Role

This is an exciting time to join Starlight. We already have considerable expertise across influence, insight and communications and a strong platform from which to build. Recent opportunities with broadcasters, parliamentarians and other influential audiences demonstrate the potential to take Starlight's voice further. The Head of Influence, Insight and Communications will bring these strands together, working with talented colleagues to spot, shape and amplify opportunities that advance our ambition to end preventable trauma in children's healthcare.

As we enter the next phase of Starlight's development, with our new strategy to end preventable trauma for children in healthcare, our focus is on increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of our influencing work. Our aim is to build on our strong existing capability, bringing together complementary specialist teams to create greater strategic impact, stronger external influence and an even more integrated approach to delivering our mission.

This new Influence, Insight and Communications role brings together the existing influencing, insight and communications teams, recognising the significant overlap between strategic communications, public affairs, campaigns, insight and organisational influence. The role will provide strategic leadership across these disciplines, enabling Starlight to connect research, lived experience, policy engagement and communications around organisational priorities, and maximise our external impact.

The role will sit within the Play in Healthcare team, reflecting the shift in emphasis of our communications and marketing activity towards influencing, campaigning and systems change. It plays a critical part in making children's experiences visible, amplifying the voices of children and families, and building understanding of why emotionally safe healthcare matters.

Reporting to the Director of Play in Healthcare, and working closely with the Director of Income Generation & Engagement, the postholder will bring together Starlight's existing expertise in influence, insight and communications to translate evidence and lived experience into compelling narratives, policy positions, thought leadership and strategic communications that strengthen Starlight's reputation, influence decision-makers and support organisational growth. The postholder will identify, shape and amplify opportunities to position Starlight as a trusted voice on children's healthcare experiences and the role of play in supporting children's wellbeing, development and emotional safety.

About Starlight

Starlight is the national charity for children's play in healthcare.

We believe that healthcare should be a more humane and child-centred experience for every child. We work across the UK to champion the importance of play during treatment, care and recovery, supporting children, parents and carers, and healthcare professionals.

Our ambition is to end preventable trauma in children's healthcare.

At 2makeit our vision is to be part of a criminal justice sector in which creativity plays a vital role in reducing the risk of reoffending.

Our mission is to help rehabilitate those with lived experience of the criminal justice sector via mentoring coupled with creative expression through programmes in music, art and writing.

We currently work in 5 prisons - support begins with activities to establish trust and confidence. We aim to develop a trusting relationship with participants to raise their self-esteem and confidence to prepare for release and continued through-the-gate support. In the community we deliver programmes in 5 locations in partnership with the NHS, HM Prison and Probation Service and other charities to improve the life chances for some of the most excluded and vulnerable individuals in society.

As CEO you’ll lead an organisation with a plan for growth: developing new projects in prisons and in the community alongside opportunities to showcase the work of the charity and its beneficiaries.

Position: CEO

Responsible to: Board of Trustees through the Chair of the Board

Location: Remote; SE England

Salary: £45,000–£50,000 per annum

Annual leave: 28 days (not including bank holidays)

Job Purpose

Working closely with the Chair of the Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive will:

• Provide leadership and direction to the organisation in the development and achievement of its vision, mission and values
• Take overall responsibility for implementing the agreed strategies and achieving the business plans of the organisation, by effectively managing and developing the resources available to the organisation
• Represent the organisation externally by building and maintaining strategic relationships with senior prison and probation managers, partners, networks, and other charities.

The post holder will be the lead senior executive with overall responsibility for the operation of the organisation.

How to apply: Click the CharityJob Apply button below. You’ll be asked to submit a CV and answer a few short screening questions about your relevant skills and motivation. In your letter of application please show how your experience and skills match the requirements of the role in the full job description and the essential criteria listed in the person specification.

Interviews will take place on Thursday 29th October in Central London.

Closing date: 16th October 2026

In July 2026, following almost two and a half years of work and nearly two decades as a Faculty, we became the College of Intensive Care Medicine: an independent charity with our own Board of Trustees, governance and voice. Reaching this point has been a significant achievement. Now comes the next chapter: building an organisation that is genuinely independent, financially sustainable and equipped to lead the specialty for the future.

This role sits at the heart of that transformation.

Organisationally, we are creating a College from what was previously a faculty function – establishing our own culture, values, policies, systems and operating model while managing a careful and constructive separation from the Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCoA), our long-standing host and continuing close partner.

Financially, we begin with an established income base, derived predominantly from subscriptions and examinations. The Executive Director will lead the development of a more diverse and resilient financial model, strengthening income and ensuring long-term sustainability without compromising our charitable purpose, governance or commitment to members.

For our people, we need to build our own workforce and operating model while supporting colleagues through a genuine change in employer and organisational identity. This will require clarity, empathy and strong leadership – alongside an unwavering focus on maintaining the services that almost 5,000 members rely on.

THE ROLE

We are therefore looking for an Executive Director who has successfully led organisations through significant transformation; who understands how to build financial sustainability and diversify income; and who can bring people with them through complex and meaningful change.

You will bring the strategic and financial credibility to earn the confidence of our Trustees and partners at the RCoA, alongside the emotional intelligence and collaborative leadership needed to unite staff, members and the wider clinical community behind the College’s future.

This is a rare opportunity to shape a new professional College at the moment of its creation: establishing its identity, culture and operating model while building the foundations for long-term independence and impact.

TIMELINE

Closing date: Monday 19th October 2026

Preliminary interviews: w/c Monday 2nd and 9th November 2026

Final Panel interviews: w/c Monday 7th December 2026  

Hours:  36 hours per week on a rota basis covering daytime Recovery Space hours of 9am-5pm, 7 days per week. Weekend working is required (every other weekend)

Responsible to: Recovery Space Manager.

Location: Croydon Health and Wellbeing Space in the Whitgift Centre.

Main purpose of job:

The aim of the service is to divert people away from Emergency Department. The Recovery Space Workers provide a non-clinical, warm and welcoming setting to support individuals in crisis, assess their needs, provide emotional support and to help develop coping strategies.

The day crisis worker role involves running 1:1 sessions with clients, supporting the with the drop-in at the Croydon Health and Wellbeing Space, where clients in crisis can drop-in for immediate support between 10am-1pm on Monday-Saturday, running group sessions promoting coping skills to clients, engaging in managerial and clinical supervisions, engaging in team meetings and completing administrative duties as required.

For more information, please see the attached job description.

The Senior HR Advisor will be our in-house HR professional and lead the day-to-day people function.

The postholder is responsible for the full employment lifecycle, for helping SRS meet its legal and safeguarding obligations as an employer, and for providing confident, well-evidenced advice to the Management Team on employee relations matters.

What you will need

• CIPD Associate membership with a Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, or an equivalent degree-level HR qualification
• Demonstrable, hands-on experience of managing employee relations casework, including grievance, disciplinary, capability, performance and sickness absence
• Proven generalist HR experience across the full employee lifecycle, from recruitment through to exit
• Current, applied knowledge of UK employment law, and the ability to translate it into practical advice for non-specialists
• Experience of drafting, reviewing and implementing HR policies and procedures
• Experience of line managing staff and of coaching and supporting other line managers through difficult people matters
• Understanding of safeguarding obligations in relation to staff, including safe recruitment practice
• Sound understanding of data protection as it applies to employee records and HR processes and a proven track record of handling confidential and sensitive matters with discretion, and the resilience to carry that responsibility
• For the full list of essential criteria see the recruitment pack.

About us

Suffolk Refugee Support aims to enable all asylum seekers and refugees in Suffolk to live integrated, fulfilled and contributing lives in their new communities. We provide a welcoming environment where clients can access help, advice, support and practical services to be healthy and safe and begin to rebuild their lives. We work with external agencies, community and voluntary sector organisations, health providers and others to enable our clients to access a range of support. We are based in Ipswich, but our services operate increasingly across Suffolk as refugees and asylum seekers are housed across the county.

If you're an experienced manager with a background in immigration advice, GARAS wants to hear from you. As a leading immigration charity in Gloucestershire, we're looking for someone to lead our Adult Advice Team, guiding staff and volunteers as they support asylum seekers and refugees across the county.

Sitting on our Senior Management Team, you'll help shape how GARAS delivers its services, making sure the advice we offer stays true to what we stand for as an organisation.

We're a medium-sized, ambitious charity, and this role would suit someone who thrives on responsibility and wants to see their leadership make a tangible difference to people's lives. You will line manage all members of the Adult Advice Team, so sound judgement, resilience and genuine warmth in your management style will be essential. 

This role is based on-site at GARAS premises and will require an Enhanced DBS check.

Starting Salary: £44,766 - £48,225 (including London weighting) 

Contract: Permanent 

Location: UK, Hybrid working with a minimum of 40% of your time in theLondon Office 

Job Profile

This role will lead CAFOD’s policy and advocacy work aimed at tackling the global climate crisis. The post holder will have a solid understanding of debates around climate change, in particular how it impacts climate-vulnerable countries in the Global South. You will bring knowledge of the causes of the climate crisis, and its solutions, particularly global financing needs. Working closely with CAFOD’s overseas partners, and within UK and global networks, this role will hold policy expertise on behalf of the organisation. This will involve developing policy positions and representing the organisation externally. The role will work closely with CAFOD’s government relations and campaigns colleagues to lobby decision-makers and mobilise supporters as part of our climate justice work. Sitting within the Advocacy, Policy & Campaigns team, the role is managed by the head of department.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading the development and delivery of CAFOD’s global climate justice advocacy strategy 

• Working in partnership with UK and global organisations to develop evidence‑based policy positions 

• Influencing UK, regional and global policy debates on climate change 

• Representing CAFOD in coalitions, to decision makers, in church networks and at international forums 

• Writing policy briefings, reports and communication outputs 

• Building relationships with external stakeholders and decision makers and UK and global levels 

• Ensuring advocacy is grounded in strong analysis, partner experience and a commitment to social and environmental justice 

• Supporting advocacy work of partners and global networks on debt cancellation and financial system reform 

• Providing strategic and technical advice across the organisation 

• Any other relevant duties reasonably required

Person Specification 

1. Strong background working in climate policy and/or international development policy 

1. Excellent analytical and research skills and an understanding of how to form strategic policy positions

1. Experience of developing strategic advocacy plans 

1. Experience of lobbying decision makers 

1. Background working with partners and coalitions, both in the UK and overseas 

1. Excellent written and verbal communication skills

CAFOD is a welcoming, supportive workplace committed to a safe, inclusive culture where everyone is respected.CAFODwill make reasonable adjustments at every stage of the recruitment process to ensure candidates with disabilities or individual needs are fully supported. 

Safeguarding for Children and Vulnerable Adults 

CAFOD recognises the personal dignity and rights of children and vulnerable adults, towards whom it has a special responsibility and a duty of care and respect. CAFOD, and all its staff and volunteers, undertake to do all in our power to create a safe environment for children, young people and vulnerable adults and to prevent their physical, sexual or emotional abuse. CAFOD is committed to acting at all times in the best interests of children and vulnerable adults, seeing these interests as paramount. Any candidate offered a job with CAFOD will be expected to adhere to CAFOD’s Safeguarding policy and sign CAFOD’s Code of Behaviour as an appendix to their contract of employment and agree to conduct themselves in accordance with the provisions of these documents.

All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references, and appropriate screening checks can include criminal records and terrorism finance checks. CAFOD also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. In line with this Scheme, we will request information from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms his/her understanding of these recruitment procedures. 

BASED IN SWINDON

NO CVS ACCEPTED and STRICTLY NO AGENCIES/RECRUITMENT CONSULTANTS.

This role requires the submission of a completed Medaille Trust Application Form which you can download from the Vacancies page on Medaille Trust website. This is to be uploaded to the 'Other Document Upload' button. Your application will not be considered without an application form as we do not accept CVS. Interview date will be confirmed with the applicant

We are currently looking for a Senior Service Manager to oversee safe houses based in Swindon area. This role is a chance to combine your leadership skills, compliance excellence and compassion.

In the role you will:

· Lead and Inspire: Manage and motivate a dedicated team, ensuring they receive high quality supervision, training, and support.

· Champion Safety & Quality: Take ownership of Health & Safety compliance, safeguarding standards, and quality assurance measures including CQC and internal audits.

· Drive Operational Excellence: Oversee budgets, payroll, and service delivery with a focus on efficiency and high standards.

· Empower Survivors: Ensure service users receive the care and advocacy they need to rebuild their lives. What we are looking for: · Proven experience in team management and compliance within a care or support setting.

· Strong knowledge of Health & Safety, safeguarding, and quality frameworks.

· Excellent communication, organisational, and IT skills.

· Experience in modern slavery support is desirable, but not essential as training will be provided.

Closing date: Thursday, 15 October 2026 at 10am

Interview Date: TBC

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we reserve the right to interview/ appoint before the closing date. Early applications are therefore strongly encouraged.

This role is a subject to satisfactory Disclosure & Barring Service checks. The ability to drive with a valid licence with use of own vehicle insured for business purposes is essential.

About Us

Medaille Trust is one of the leading providers of support to survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking in the UK. We are working to provide refuge and freedom for survivors and fighting to see slavery in all its forms become a thing of the past. The need for this work has never been higher, there are more than 50 million estimated victims of modern slavery worldwide, and over 120,000 potential victims in the UK.

We operate ten safe houses and five outreach hubs, staffed round the clock by specialist staff, working with more than 600 men, women and dependent children each year. We work to raise awareness in the UK and to provide preventive work in source countries. Our Pursue work helps survivors to engage with police and within the legal system to seek justice and to secure convictions against their perpetrators.

Could you be the next Chief Officer of Just Drop-In?

We're looking for an inspiring, values-driven leader to guide our much-loved charity in Macclesfield into its next chapter.

For 25 years, Just Drop-In has been a lifeline for young people 11–24yrs old across the north of Cheshire East. Every year, we support more than 1,000 children and young people through our Counselling, Mentoring, Wellbeing, and Parent Support Services — and the need has never been greater.

We're looking for someone who brings:

✅ Strong leadership experience

✅ Business awareness

✅ Safeguarding knowledge and experience

✅ Experience of working with children and young people and a genuine passion for helping them thrive

This is a rare opportunity to lead an organisation with deep roots in its community and a team that truly believes in its mission.

If this sounds like you — or someone you know — we'd love to hear from you.

Please see further information and how to apply by downloading the attached document or clicking redirect to recruiter. 

#Hiring #ChiefOfficer #Charity #YouthWork #Macclesfield #NonProfit #Leadership #JobOpportunity

The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) is the world’s largest alliance of national societies of obstetrics and gynecology, bringing together professionals from more than 139 countries and territories. For over 70 years, FIGO has collaborated with the world’s top health, rights, and donor bodies. We are in official relations with the World Health Organization and consultative status with the United Nations.

FIGO is dedicated to the improvement of the health and rights of women and girls and to the reduction of disparities in health care, as well as to advancing the science and practice of obstetrics and gynecology. We pursue our mission through education, research implementation, advocacy, and capacity building with our member societies.

Financial control responsibility for accurate, complete, Charity SORP compliant balances in the balance sheet. Review of all monthly balance sheet reconciliations, completeness and of income and expenditure lines and controls accounts. This includes ownership of fixed assets register, KPIs for debtor and creditors aged balances, correct processing of taxes (PAYE/NI and VAT) and banking administration.

Responsible for administering the Procurement Policy and Delegation of Authority. Manage and delegate the financial systems. This includes all aspects of systems management, continuous development and full utilisation of the enterprise resource planning (ERP) cloud-based software. Lead and support system-led financial and procedural controls to elevate current practices to meet best practices in accounting and reporting as per IFRS102 and Charity SORP regulatory standards. The role includes change management and process embedding, upskilling end-users and improving user experience.

Business partner across internal and external stakeholders to ensure reporting requirements are met. Achieve high level of assurance and integrity in reports including interrogation and correction as required. Support variance analysis and commentaries on all levels of reporting.

Support finance colleagues in delivery of overall Finance objectives when required i.e. absence cover and deputise for the Head of Finance. 

Job Title: Parliamentary and Public Affairs Manager

Reporting to: Director of Campaigns

Line reports: None

Salary: £44,350 per annum pro-rata (£ 35,480 per annum for 4 days per week)

Hours: 4 days (30 hours) or 5 days (37.5 hours) per week, with flexibility over working hours (core hours are 10.00-16.00).

Duration: 1-year contract renewable subject to funding

Start Date: As soon as possible

Location: London/Hybrid – minimum 2 days in the office (core days in the office are Tues & Weds) further office attendance is encouraged

Anti-oppressive statement

Foodrise is actively seeking to move through an anti-racist and anti-oppressive journey in every aspect of its work. We acknowledge that the environmental sector is less open to people from under-represented backgrounds, and we are strongly committed to identifying and correcting where we may be perpetuating patriarchal, white supremacist values and other forms of oppression in our organisational culture, partnerships, and community work. We especially want to hear from you if you feel that you have lived experience of power structures preventing you from accessing opportunities like this.

Read our full Equity, Justice and Anti-oppression statement.

Inclusive Recruitment

We have an opt-in Enhanced Chance Interview Scheme for candidates who declare a disability and/or are a person of colour and meet the essential criteria of the role profile. The scheme aims to provide a first-stage interview for candidates who meet the essential criteria of the role and opt in to the scheme.

If you would like to be considered under this scheme you must meet the essential minimum criteria for the role as outlined on the job description. You should take time to provide examples that you meet each of the essential criteria in your cover letter. Please ensure you select the relevant tick box on the application page ‘Enhanced Chance Interview Scheme’.

We are always happy to speak to candidates informally about the role before applying and encourage you to do so by contacting us.

About Us

Foodrise is a charity transforming the food system for climate, nature and justice. 

We take bold action to uncover the root causes of injustice in our food system and expose how corporate power exploits people and the planet, while building truly just and resilient alternatives from the ground-up.

We speak truth to power. We take risks. We act where and when others won’t.

From launching legal action and producing hard-hitting research to working directly with local communities, we drive systemic change across food and farming, powered by grassroots energy and backed by the facts.

We exist to say what others won’t, do what others don’t, and never settle for “it can’t be done”. Change is possible, and we are rising to make it happen.

We are based in the UK and the Netherlands. See more about us on our website.

About the Role

The Parliamentary and Public Affairs Manager is a brand-new role for Foodrise. The successful candidate will lead on developing our first public and parliamentary affairs strategy to engage with political representatives and policymakers to advance our campaigning objectives and ensure progress towards our new strategic goals:

• Dismantling the animal industrial complex and supporting the transition to plant-rich food
• Eroding the social licence of large supermarkets and building alternative food economies

Ultimately, this role is about securing wins to meet our vision of a greener, fairer food system, where food is a commons, not a commodity.

This role is key to shaping public policy and legislative outcomes by building relationships, influencing decision-makers, and positioning Foodrise as an ambitious yet trusted voice in Westminster, Holyrood and amongst civil society across the UK. This role will work collaboratively with colleagues across campaigns, so would suit an adaptive candidate with strong communication skills, keen to advocate for Foodrise.

Job Description

Parliamentary and Public Affairs Strategy

• Develop and deliver a public affairs strategy aligned with organisational priorities and campaigns
• Identify and maximise opportunities to influence legislation, policy development, and public debate
• Monitor the UK political landscape, including Parliament, Government departments, and devolved administrations

Political Engagement & Influencing

• Build and maintain strong relationships with MPs, Peers, civil servants, special advisers, and political stakeholders
• Lead engagement with All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs), select committees, and public consultations
• Draft and coordinate parliamentary briefings, speeches, amendments, parliamentary questions and responses
• Work with lawyers to draft proposed legislation and legislative changes in support of our objectives
• Register for the UK lobbying register and keep our account up to date
• Lead high-impact advocacy moments such as parliamentary events, receptions, and policy launches

 Integration of Parliamentary/Advocacy Asks into Foodrise’s Wider Work

• Work closely with campaigns and communications teams to integrate parliamentary and public affairs into campaigns
• Work closely with fundraisers and senior leadership to integrate parliamentary and policy asks in our fundraising and business development
• Ensure consistent and compelling advocacy messaging across all channels
• Provide regular updates and analysis on political developments relevant to the organisation’s work
• Track and evaluate the impact of public affairs activities
• Maintain accurate stakeholder records and engagement logs
• Work closely with our colleagues at Foodrise in the EU to support EU level advocacy where relevant to our campaigns
• Any other relevant tasks as requested by senior colleagues to support the organisation and further our objectives

Ways of Working

• Collaborative by default; independent work is balanced with regular coordination.
• Contribute to the development and embedding of anti-oppressive work across the organisation
• Flexible and adaptable in response to changing priorities.
• Present and available for colleagues, including regular in‑office presence.
• Proactive in communication, planning, and follow‑through.

Person Specification

Essential Knowledge, Experience and Network

• Extensive experience in public affairs, government relations, or political advocacy (at least 7 years’ working experience)
• Strong understanding of the UK political system, legislative processes, and policy-making
• Networks within the UK political and policy systems
• Knowledge of the key issues in food systems, environment and/or climate in the UK

Essential Skills

• Demonstrable experience of influencing political representatives, policymakers and delivering policy or campaign wins
• Excellent writing, analytical and research skills.
• Excellent organisational skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively; build, maintain and develop flexible working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

What You Will Bring to Foodrise

• A can-do attitude, flexibility and adaptability, alongside a willingness to pitch in on delivery and help colleagues across the team, recognising that Foodrise is a small, nimble organisation with fast-changing priorities.
• An understanding of anti-oppressive practice and how it applies to Foodrise’s work and the role, and the ability to represent diverse perspectives through the work of the organisation.
• Sharing Foodrise’s values: audacity, collaboration, impact, celebration, solidarity.
• Willingness to undertake some limited travel domestically and abroad.

What We Offer

• Personal training and wellbeing funds
• Regular team socials
• Workplace pension
• Enhanced parental leave
• Enhanced sick leave
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Home & Tech scheme
• Flexible working hours (core hours 10am-4pm)

How to Apply

Please apply via Charity Jobs with:

• Your CV (no longer than 2 A4 pages total) 
• A cover letter (no longer than 1 A4 page) explaining how you meet the criteria in the person specification with examples, and why you would like to work at Foodrise. 

Deadline to apply: 10am, Tuesday 22nd September

Successful candidates for interview will be notified by Thursday 24th September.

Shortlisted candidates will be sent our new strategy ahead of the interview, along with details of an hour-long written task to be completed at home – this will be sent prior to the interview at a time convenient for you.

First round interviews will be held on Thursday 1st October.

Second round interviews will be held on Thursday 8th October.

Sign up to join our Recruitment Q&A Zoom session on Wednesday 2nd September, 12-1pm. Our HR & Operations Manager will talk through the recruitment process and answer any questions you may have. Please note that this session is focussed on the recruitment process. If you have any questions specific to the role, please contact us.

For any questions, access requirements, or if you require the job description in a different format, please contact us.

AI policy – We understand that you may use AI to help with your application, however we want to hear your authentic voice throughout your application.

Job Title: 

Salary:   £55,000 to £60,000 per annum

Band:  Senior Leadership Team

Contract length: Permanent - 35 hours per week, full time.  Hybrid working

Location:London-based, primarily Guildhall (EC2V 7HH) and Bow Lock (E3 3JY), with work across Thames21 project locations.                                                       

Responsible to: Chief Executive

Responsible for: Improving Rivers Managers and associated staff.

About Thames21:

Thames21 is an environmental charity which works across London and the Thames Basin to deliver high-impact nature-based solutions to the climate and biodiversity crisis by restoring rivers, whilst also connecting communities to their local green-blue spaces and inspiring long-term stewardship of them.

Diversity at Thames21

Thames21 is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve across London and the Thames Basin. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, and lived experiences.

Purpose of the role

Lead and grow Thames21’s Improving Rivers Team to deliver high-quality river restoration, catchment management and environmental evidence programmes, while contributing to organisational growth and strategic partnerships.

Key relationships

Chief Executive and Senior Management Team, Improving Rivers Managers, Finance, Fundraising/Partnerships, external partners including the Environment Agency, water companies, local authorities, GLA and mayoral bodies, academic partners, environmental NGOs and funders.

Main duties and responsibilities

1) Strategic leadership & portfolio growth

· Lead the strategic development of the Improving Rivers portfolio, setting clear objectives and outcomes aligned to Thames21’s plan (2023–2028).

· As a member of the Senior Management Team, contribute to organisational strategy, financial sustainability, risk management and culture across Thames21.

· Translate strategy into actionable delivery plans with measurable targets and milestones.

· Embed effective monitoring & evaluation across projects and programmes to evidence impact and inform decision‑making.

· Contributing to organisational risk management and business planning.

· Champion innovation and the use of environmental/nature finance mechanisms where appropriate to scale delivery.

2) Programme oversight, quality & compliance

· Direct and support Improving Rivers Managers to deliver a coherent programme of work across river restoration, evidence, and catchment partnerships.

· Enable cross‑team collaboration (with the Engagement & Learning Team and others) to maximise multiple benefits for people and nature.

· Ensure robust project governance, risk management and reporting. Oversee Health & Safety and CDM compliance and safe systems of work.

· Act as one of the Duty Senior Managers in the weekend cover rota

· Establish and maintain portfolio measurement indices and ensure timely data entry into Thames21 platforms.

3) People leadership & culture

· Lead, motivate and develop Improving Rivers Managers; set clear objectives, undertake regular 1:1s, appraisals and PDPs.

· Foster an inclusive, collaborative and high‑performance culture.  Ensure staff wellbeing and professional development.

· Plan and chair IR team and managers’ meetings. Maintain effective internal communications and knowledge‑sharing (e.g., SharePoint).

4) Finance, funding & organisational development

· Hold delegated authority for budget setting and expenditure sign‑off within the portfolio.  Ensure accurate financial planning, management and reporting.

· Support development of high‑quality bids and funding agreements (statutory, partnership and philanthropic), including large strategic bids and environmental market opportunities by providing technical expertise, programme design and partner engagement.

· Work with Finance and Fundraising to strengthen controls, update relevant policies/processes, and ensure audit‑ready documentation.

· Contribute to whole‑organisation systems, policies and processes that support effective delivery and financial resilience.

6) External relations & advocacy

· Represent Thames21 with senior stakeholders (e.g., Environment Agency, water companies, GLA/mayoral teams, local authorities, eNGOs, funders, corporate partners and the Rivers Trust).

· Build and steward strategic partnerships and alliances that enable delivery at scale and unlock new funding and policy influence.

· Act as a confident spokesperson for Thames21 when required.

7) Reporting, governance & data

· Ensure timely and accurate portfolio reporting for SMT and Board, including dashboards/infographics and risk register updates.

· Promote effective use of organisational systems and data within the team to improve efficiency and data quality.

Key performance indicators (portfolio‑level)

· Water quality - monitoring & investigation: improved evidence base and prioritisation of pollution sources for resolution.

· Improving water quality - implementation of evidence‑based actions at catchment scale.

· Flows - natural flood management outcomes and strengthened drought/low‑flow resilience.

· River/wetland enhancement, restoration & connectivity - ecological condition and connectivity improved.

· Catchment‑based approach - strengthened hosting and partnership effectiveness.

Other Duties

This job description cannot cover every issue or task that may arise within Thames21. At various times the post-holder will be directed to carry out other reasonable duties in support of other Thames21 activities that are consistent with those in this Job Description. For more information and how to apply 

Additional Information

· The role may require occasional evening and weekend work. Travel across London and the Thames Basin as needed.

· 25 days annual leave (plus public holidays) and office closure between Christmas and New Year; flexitime/TOIL.

· Auto‑enrolment workplace pension with NEST with 8% employer contribution

· Laptop and mobile phone for company use; season‑ticket/bike loan (interest‑free).

· 24/7 access to our employee assistance programme.

Please follow thw application instructions later on in the Charity Job application process 5pm on Friday 2 October 2026. Please mark the reference of your application (HIR0926). 

We appreciate the time you will have taken to apply to this role, and we do appreciate that it is disconcerting when you don’t hear back from a role you have applied for. However, due to the high number of applications we expect to receive,we are unable respond to or give feedback on individual applications, but we do want to be able manage expectations. Therefore, if you do not hear from us within 4 weeks of the closing date, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion.

Philanthropic Partnerships Lead – Trusts and Foundations (parental leave cover)

Application Closing Date: 9th October 2026

Location: Remote or hybrid working within the UK (preferably within regular commuting distance to London); individuals will be required to attend episodic in-person office days in London as needed and additional external facing events as prescribed by the organisation. This role requires applicants to be able to show that they have the right to work in the UK.

Term: full time - 35 hours a week. This is a fixed term contract for a period of 12 months covering parental leave. Ideally looking for a candidate to commence the role from November 2026.

Organisation: Global Greengrants Fund UK

Salary: Salaries at Global Greengrants Fund UK (GGF UK) are dependent on applicable salary scales, internal pay policies including equity considerations and budget. Due to the ways in which salary negotiations perpetuate existing structural inequities, GGF UK has moved away from salary negotiation processes for any candidate. Our best offer for this position is £70,600 per annum.

Benefits: We have improved our benefits package and we now offer 10% employer’s pension contribution, remote and flexible remote working, generous family and sick leave, employee assistance programme, health and life insurances, 28 days annual leave plus all UK bank holidays.

About Global Greengrants Fund

Global Greengrants Fund (GGF) supports grassroots activists and civil society organisations around the world working to address environmental and social justice in over 160 countries.  GGF applies a participatory and decentralised model in making grants to grassroots groups through regional and thematic boards of advisors, global partner networks and independent funds, to support grassroots environmental and social justice action.

Global Greengrants Fund comprises two organisations: one located in the USA, Global Greengrants Fund Inc (established in 1993), and Global Greengrants Fund UK (established in 2012). The two organisations work closely together with a shared grantmaking programme and strategic collaboration at the senior leadership level. GGF UK consists of sixteen staff members working on fundraising and influencing philanthropy; finance; communications; and operations, with all of these functions operating autonomously but in close collaboration with their US counterpart functions.

Global Greengrants Fund has experienced tremendous growth over the past two years and we are thoughtfully, yet rapidly, growing our annual grantmaking, our philanthropic advocacy, and our global partnerships and collaborations to new levels as part of our ongoing transformative journey.

The Role

The Philanthropic Partnerships Lead – Trusts & Foundations will contribute to Global Greengrants Fund UK’s fundraising and partnership objectives by stewarding a portfolio of existing and new Trust & Foundation supporters to secure significant restricted and unrestricted grants and donations for the organisation. Working as part of the Philanthropic Partnerships team and reporting to the Director of Philanthropic Partnerships, the postholder will also collaborate closely with colleagues across the global organisation Global Greengrants Fund, particularly within the Programmes, External Relations and Finance functions.

The Candidate Profile

The post holder will be an experienced, senior-level fundraising leader with a track record of securing and developing successful collaborations with trusts, foundations and partner organisations to achieve ambitious income goals; extensive experience in developing pitches, proposals, and fundraising products; and a strong interest in environmental justice, international development or human rights issues. They will have an extensive knowledge of the funding and philanthropy sectors in the UK and Europe; excellent written and verbal communication skills; and be confident in engaging a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including at senior levels.

The candidate will excel in relationship building and interpersonal skills, capable of managing complex relationships and politics. With excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, they will be adept at developing compelling proposals, presentations, reports, and other fundraising materials. Additionally, they will demonstrate strategic, innovative, and analytical thinking, with a strong capacity for complex problem-solving and decision-making.

The right candidate will understand Global Greengrants Fund’s core values and be committed to the guiding principles and mission of Global Greengrants Fund and ensure they uphold them in the way they take up the responsibilities of the role. They will value transparency and accountability, demonstrating strong critical thinking, strategic risk management, and the ability to influence and resolve differences across boundaries. With a high degree of self-awareness and insight, the candidate will excel in building strong interpersonal relationships, both within and outside the organisation, and possess outstanding communication and collaboration skills.

How to Apply

Please review the full job description and person specification on our website and submit your application via email. Please note that the email address to address your application is listed in the job advert on our website. 

In your application, please send a copy of your current CV and covering letter by 9th October 2026 at 23:00 GMT.  You will need to submit these in English. If you’re intrigued by this position but feel like you don’t fit the profile precisely, please still apply. You can ask questions or seek further information to feel able to apply by emailing us.

We thank all those who apply, but only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. 

Global Greengrants Fund UK is an equal opportunities employer. We strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life. We believe that diversity and inclusion among our team is critical to our success. We seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, religion, ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.

About the role:

For women facing multiple disadvantage, the right support can be the difference between remaining trapped by systems and beginning to rebuild safety, choice and control. As our Specialist Multiple Disadvantage Worker at Grace House, you’ll provide skilled, persistent and compassionate support to women whose experiences may include homelessness, domestic abuse, trauma, substance use, poor mental health and contact with the criminal justice system.

Using a gender and trauma-informed approach, you’ll build trusting relationships and work alongside women at their own pace. You’ll manage complex casework, advocate firmly on their behalf and help navigate services and systems that can often feel fragmented or difficult to access. You’ll use creativity, professional judgement and tenacity to challenge barriers and help women move forward on their own terms.

You’ll also bring your expertise into multi-agency discussions, ensuring women’s voices, experiences and priorities remain central to the decisions made about their support. Working closely with colleagues and external partners, you’ll help shape responsive, coordinated support and contribute to the continued development of practice across Grace House.

This is an opportunity to deepen your specialist skills, take real ownership of your work and make a visible difference in women’s lives. You’ll be supported by an experienced team, reflective practice and ongoing learning and development at Single Homeless Project (SHP), giving you the tools and confidence to grow while delivering support that genuinely changes lives.

*For genuine occupational requirement reasons, we are seeking applications from women only for this post (exemption under the Equality Act 2010; Schedule 9 Part 1). 

About you:

• You know how to build trust with women who may have been let down by services before, working with patience, honesty and consistency.
• You bring strong experience of supporting women facing multiple disadvantage and understand how trauma, abuse, homelessness, poor mental health and substance use can overlap.
• You stay calm when situations are complex, using sound judgement to assess risk, make decisions and keep support moving forward.
• You are a determined advocate who will challenge barriers, bring partners together and keep pushing when systems are not responding.
• You are reflective, curious and ready to deepen your specialist practice, with support, supervision and development opportunities at SHP.

About us:

We’re London’s leading homelessness charity – and we get things done.

In a city where hundreds are forced into homelessness every day, our work has never been more needed or more challenging. And we’re not shying away. We’re rolling up our sleeves to make change and helping over 10,000 Londoners every year. We prevent homelessness, provide safe places to live and give people the opportunity to rebuild their lives and transform their futures. And we never give up. 

We’re here for Londoners wherever they are on their journey. We start with trust, building relationships that help people feel safe, supported, and ready to move forward. Every day, we put people first in everything we do, challenging injustice and barriers that keep people from the safety, stability and opportunity they deserve. We stand alongside people as they rebuild and shape a future that feels their own. 

Joining Single Homeless Project means joining a team that’s bold, compassionate and determined to do better for the people we support and for each other. You’ll work alongside colleagues with lived experience, in a space that’s trans-inclusive, disability-friendly, and actively striving to be anti-oppressive and equitable. 

We’re not perfect, but we’re real. We listen. We learn. And we push forward, together. Because this isn’t just a job. It’s a chance to lead with empathy, spark change, and help build a London where no one is left behind.

Important info:

Applications will be reviewed and suitable candidates invited to interview online as they are received. Therefore, please submit your application as soon as possible to be considered. We reserve the right to close the vacancy as soon as a suitable candidate is identified. 

Please note there will be a second stage interview in service in Camden for suitable candidates. 

This post will require an Enhanced DBS check to be processed (by SHP) for the successful applicant.

Please note applications are reviewed for AI use in application questions. Applications with insufficient right to work or requiring sponsorship will not be accepted for this role.