Fundraising and development officer jobs

Contract: Interim, immediate start until mid-November 2026
Reports to: Chief Operating Officer

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly hands-on Interim Head of Finance to join an international not-for-profit organisation for a short-term assignment.

The key priority will be to hold the fort during a period of transition, ensuring the day-to-day finance function continues to operate effectively before providing a comprehensive handover to the incoming permanent Head of Finance.

This is very much a hands-on, sleeves-rolled-up role. Alongside overseeing the finance function, you will be comfortable getting into the detail yourself, including making payments, managing payroll and VAT returns, maintaining accurate financial information and supporting the migration to a new banking provider.

A significant project during the assignment will also be leading the development of the organisation’s 2027 annual budget.

Key Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the day-to-day finance function throughout the interim period.
• Manage and support the Finance Officer.
• Maintain accurate and timely financial information, reporting and controls.
• Take a hands-on role in payments, payroll and VAT returns.
• Manage and oversee the organisation’s Xero accounting system.
• Lead the migration to a new banking provider, ensuring a smooth transition and appropriate controls.
• Lead the preparation of the 2027 organisational budget, working closely with senior leaders and budget holders.
• Provide management information and financial advice to the COO, CEO and Senior Leadership Team.
• Support effective management and reporting of restricted donor funds, including appropriate allocations and cost recovery.
• Work with fundraising colleagues on grant budgets and donor financial reporting where required.
• Ensure key financial and statutory deadlines continue to be met.
• Maintain strong financial controls and ensure the finance function is well organised for the incoming permanent Head of Finance.
• Deliver a clear and comprehensive handover at the end of the assignment.

About You

We are looking for someone who can quickly get to grips with an organisation and operate with minimal supervision. You will be equally comfortable working with senior stakeholders and getting directly involved in transactional and operational finance.

You will ideally bring:

• A recognised accountancy qualification – ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent.
• Strong experience operating at Head of Finance / Financial Controller level within a charity, NGO or wider not-for-profit environment.
• Good working knowledge and practical experience of Xero.
• A genuinely hands-on approach, with the willingness to process payments and get involved in payroll, VAT and the day-to-day finance workload.
• Strong budgeting and forecasting experience, ideally having led an organisation-wide annual budgeting process.
• Experience managing and reporting on restricted donor or grant funding, including allocations.
• Knowledge of UK charity accounting and Charity SORP.
• Strong financial controls and process management experience.
• The ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance colleagues.
• The confidence to quickly establish priorities, keep the function running effectively and leave everything in good shape for the permanent postholder.

This would suit an experienced interim finance professional who enjoys getting stuck into the detail and can provide a safe pair of hands during a period of transition.

Hours: Full-time

Pay: Up to £42,440 GBP gross per annual (dependent on experience) with additional uplift applicable during deployment.

Duration: Permanent

Location: UK-Med Office, Manchester, UK (hybrid working) with an expectation of approximately 15% international travel/deployment, as required by UK-Med.

Want to put humanitarian crises on the front pages and shape the global conversation when it matters the most?

UK-Med is looking for an exceptional Media Manager to lead our press office and secure high-impact media coverage that brings the realities of humanitarian emergencies to audiences across the UK and beyond. UK-Med is a frontline medical aid charity. Born of the NHS, we’ve been working for over 30 years
towards a world where everyone has the healthcare they need when crises or disasters hit.

In the past 12 months, UK-Med has attracted significant media attention for our emergency responses in Gaza, Ukraine and around the world. Our work has featured as the lead story on BBC News at Six and Ten, across national and regional television and radio, on the front pages of national newspapers, on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, and in leading UK and international media outlets.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our Fundraising & Communications team at a pivotal moment in UK-Med’s growth and reputation as the UK’s official Emergency Medical Team. As Media Manager, you will lead our media relations strategy, build strong relationships with journalists, identify opportunities to raise our profile, and ensure our stories reach the audiences that matter.

This is a high-profile role in a fast-paced, creative team where no two days are the same. You'll thrive under pressure, exercise sound judgement, and respond confidently to breaking news and media enquiries while helping colleagues tell powerful stories from some of the world's most challenging humanitarian crises.

You will lead the Press Office, acting as the first point of contact for media enquiries and ensuring requests are managed quickly, professionally and directed to the appropriate spokesperson.

We're looking for an outstanding communicator with excellent writing skills, a strong understanding of the UK media landscape, and the confidence to advise senior leaders and colleagues at every level on media engagement and reputation.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits along with a friendly working environment and the opportunity to make a real difference through humanitarian work.

How to apply

We strongly recommend that you read the Candidate Information Pack - Media Manager before applying.

To apply, please submit a current CV and a supporting letter (2 pages) through our online jobs portal.

Applications must be submitted no later than Friday 4th of September 2026.

UK-Med is committed to safeguarding of our personnel and beneficiaries and has a zero tolerance approach to sexual exploitation and abuse. We conduct thorough vetting before any appointment is confirmed.

UK-Med is committed to the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where employees feel respected and supported to be able to fulfil their potential.

Are you a creative storyteller with a passion for digital communications and the power of green spaces? The Land Trust is looking for a Communications and Marketing Officer to help share the impact of our work with communities, residents, partners and clients across the UK.

This new role will work with colleagues across the charity and will lead on social media and digital communications, create engaging written, photographic and video content, keep our website up to date, and support newsletters, campaigns, events and communications for our parks and green spaces. It will play a central role in helping us to maintain our commitment to open and transparent communication with residents living on service charge sites.

We are looking for someone who is proactive, organised and full of ideas, with strong communication skills and confidence using multiple social media platforms. You do not necessarily need to have a qualification in communications and marketing, as we’re keen to also hear from those with demonstrable related experience. We are also committed to supporting the right candidate with training and support to grow their skills and experience whilst in post.

The post will be involved with and lead on a range of projects and tasks, so you will need a ‘can do’ attitude to managing a varied workload. Experience in the charity, customer service, community engagement or environmental sectors would also be an advantage.

In return, we offer a generous holiday allowance, pension contributions, life insurance, flexible and hybrid working, wellbeing support, a healthcare cashback scheme, family-friendly leave, and training and development opportunities. Some UK travel may be required, with business travel costs reimbursed.

For details of how to apply see the careers page on our website. 

We will require a CV and a covering letter of no more than two sides of A4. Closing date is midnight, Sunday 6 September 2026

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK, and a DBS check may be required.

Interviews:
 

First stage interviews are expected to be held online week commencing 14 September 2026. As appropriate, a follow-up second stage interview will take place in person at the Land Trust offices in Birchwood, Warrington week commencing the 21 September 2026.

ABOUT CHEFS IN SCHOOLS

Chefs in Schools exists to improve children’s health and futures through better school food and meaningful food education.

We work alongside schools and catering teams to transform what children eat every day, particularly in communities facing the greatest barriers to good health. We combine practical support, training, operational expertise and sector influence to help schools serve fresh, nutritious food that children want to eat.

We’re backed by some of the biggest names in food and are ambitious about both impact and scale. We want every child to have access to excellent school food and a real food education, regardless of background.

We are a values-led organisation - bold, honest, collaborative, innovative and focused on solutions.

WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS

You will lead the delivery of Chefs in Schools External Affairs function, ultimately ensuring there is widespread recognition that poor quality school food is unacceptable. Through integrated media, digital and advocacy work, you’ll ensure quality school food is viewed as a vital tool for healthy development and food literacy. 

You will turn strategic direction into coordinated delivery, leading a multidisciplinary team that increases our influence, strengthens our reputation and helps achieve meaningful improvements in school food.

Working closely with External Affairs colleagues and Chief Executive, you will ensure our public profile, policy influence and media work reinforce one another, while creating the management capacity required for a growing organisation. This builds on the new functional structure where media and content, policy and campaigns, and the School Food Review programme all sit within External Affairs.

We want Chefs in Schools to become the most trusted and recognisable voice in the conversation around school food and food literacy. This role will play a central part in building that influence and recognition.

We are looking for somebody who understands that influence is built through consistency, credibility, creativity and cultural relevance as much as through formal communications activity alone. 

WHAT YOU’LL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR

Leadership

• Lead the day-to-day operation of the External Affairs team.

• Translate organisational strategy into clear plans and objectives.

• Ensure media, content creation, campaigns, policy and coalition activity reinforce one another.

• Set priorities and allocate resources across competing work.

• Develop team capability through coaching, support and performance management.

• Contribute to organisational strategy and annual planning.

• Advise on reputational opportunities and risks.

• Ensure innovation is embedded at the heart of our work and approach.

• Deputise at SLT level where appropriate.

• Represent the organisation externally.

• Build a collaborative, ambitious, solutions-focused culture.

Operational planning

• Develop and oversee the annual External Affairs plan in line with strategy.

• Coordinate campaign calendars, policy priorities, publications and media moments.

• Ensure external activity supports fundraising, programmes and partnerships.

• Monitor delivery against KPIs and adjust plans where required.

Campaigns and public engagement

• Provide strategic oversight of policy development and campaigning.

• Challenge and refine policy recommendations before publication.

• Ensure campaigns are evidence-led and aligned with organisational strategy.

• Support relationships with government, sector leaders and coalition partners.

• Build strong relationships with media, MPs, councillors and key stakeholders.

Media & communications

• Oversee media strategy and organisational messaging.

• Ensure consistency across press, social media, website, publications and events.

• Identify media moments and hard hitting stories that will hit the headlines. 

• Sign off major messaging and communications.

• Lead communications planning around major announcements or crises.

School Food Review 

• Provide strategic oversight of the School Food Review programme.

• Ensure coalition work complements Chefs in Schools wider influencing strategy.

• Support senior relationships with coalition partners and funders.

• Remove barriers to delivery for the Programme Manager.

Budget & governance

• Manage the External Affairs budget.

• Ensure safeguarding, risk management and governance requirements are met.

• Oversee procurement of agencies and consultants.

ABOUT YOU

Essential experience and skills

• Significant senior leadership experience across media relations, campaigns, policy or public affairs.

• Experience managing multidisciplinary teams.

• Strong operational planning skills.

• Excellent political judgement.

• Experience influencing senior stakeholders.

• Outstanding written and verbal communication.

• Strong project and budget management.

• Comfortable balancing long-term strategy with fast-paced reactive work.

• Strong understanding of the UK media landscape and digital channels. 

• Excellent communication skills – written, verbal and visual. 

• Experience of working with MPs and other key stakeholders.

• Strong alignment with the mission and values of Chefs in Schools.

Desirable

• Education, food systems or public health experience.

• Coalition leadership.

• Charity senior management.

• Experience working with ministers, journalists and on national campaigns.

OUR COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION

We know that strong candidates may not meet every single requirement listed in this job description.

If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution to our mission, we would encourage you to apply.

We are committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive organisation where people from different backgrounds, experiences and communities can thrive.

Shape the future of heart and lung care by helping the team to manage funding that transforms patient lives through world-class research and treatment.

About Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospital Charity

Here at the Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospital Charity we fund, facilitate and champion world-class specialists to transform the lives of heart and lung patients. We provide clinicians, academics and researchers across London and beyond with the funding and resources they need to understand more, prevent more and treat more.

Our funding comes from the fundraising efforts of thousands of supporters as well as income generated by our investments in property and equity markets. We currently grant around £6 million each year – but we want to do more.

What you'll be doing

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Programmes & Funding Officer to play a central role in providing administrative and operational support for the Charity's Special Purpose Funds (SPFs). This position is vital to ensure that all activity is recorded accurately, that systems run smoothly and stakeholders receive an exceptional level of support.

You will contribute to the development and delivery of a bespoke fundholder service, enabling fundholders to maximise the impact of their SPFs in advancing care for heart and lung patients.

What we're looking for

• Experienced administrator with a strong understanding of office systems and processes
• Excellent coordination and organisational skills
• Clear and confident communicator
• Experience establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Comfortable juggling competing priorities with a practical, solutions-focused approach
• Proactive, hands-on approach and willingness to step in wherever needed

What we offer

Hours: 35 per week (full time)
Salary: £30,000 per annum
Contract type: Fixed-Term for 12 months (with the potential to transition to permanent)
Hybrid working (minimum 2 days per week in the office – 1 The Courtyard, 151 Sydney Street, London SW2 6NT, with occasional working at our hubs in the Royal Brompton and Harefield hospitals)

Our benefits package includes: 27 days annual leave + public holidays (pro rata); 6% contribution into pension scheme; life assurance cover; cash health pots; family leave policies that provide an enhanced level of pay; investment in your development; support for your physical and mental wellbeing including an employee assistance provider and access to GP, counselling and more.

How to apply

Please send a CV and cover letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) that details how you meet the requirements of the job description by 5pm on Monday 17th August 2026.

In-person interviews will take place on Monday 7th September.

Please note that as a charity dedicated to improving the lives of heart and lung patients, we require our staff to make a declaration about any relevant convictions and undergo a Disclosure and Barring service check, including an ID check.

If a sufficient number of high quality applications are received, we may close the opportunity earlier than the 15th June. To ensure your application is considered, we strongly recommend submitting it as soon as possible. Candidates will be notified of the next stage in the recruitment process if they are shortlisted.

Ready to make every pound count in the fight against heart and lung disease? Apply now and help us transform patient care through exceptional funding management.

REF-230 014

INTRODUCTION TO THE ROLE

iniva is seeking an experienced, thoughtful and collaborative Website & Communications Manager to join our team at a pivotal moment for the organisation. The role sits at the heart of Living Legacies: Collaboration, Community and Radicality, a four-year National Lottery Heritage Fund project that activates iniva’s archive and connects it with communities through exhibitions, events, podcasts, oral histories and digital resources. Working at iniva is dynamic, creative and purpose driven. As a small organisation, we value people who can work confidently on their own initiative while collaborating closely with colleagues, freelancers and partners. This part-time role (3 days per week) is offered as a fixed-term contract over four years, with responsibilities evolving across the project lifecycle — from strategy and planning in the early stages to website redevelopment, major public programmes and legacy outputs in later phases. The Website & Communications Manager will work closely with the Project Manager and wider team to support clear communication, shared understanding and joined-up audience engagement. The role plays a key part in shaping how audiences encounter Living Legacies and iniva more broadly, ensuring communications are inclusive, accessible and grounded in the organisation’s values. We’re looking for someone who cares about creating more equitable cultural spaces and enjoys sharing stories that connect artists, archives, and communities.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

This role would suit a practical and organised communications professional with strong writing and digital skills. You will be a confident and clear communicator, able to produce engaging, accessible content for a range of audiences across web, email and social media. You will have experience working with websites, including contributing to or supporting a WordPress (or similar CMS) website redevelopment, and be comfortable collaborating with website developers to deliver user-friendly, accessible digital experiences. You will bring the ability to plan and coordinate work across multiple projects, managing timelines, contributors and priorities effectively. Experience supporting or overseeing freelancers such as PR consultants, graphic designers, photographers, videographers etc or external partners is helpful, alongside a collaborative approach and good organisational skills. We are particularly interested in candidates who bring transferable skills from other sectors, along with curiosity, initiative and a willingness to learn. You should be motivated by working in a small, purpose-driven team and be committed to inclusive, accessible communication. This role supports a multi-year heritage project focused on the histories and practices of Black and Global Majority artists. We particularly welcome applicants with lived experience and/or a strong interest in these areas, and a commitment to inclusive, anti-racist and accessible communication practices. We know that no one will meet every requirement. If you meet most of the criteria and feel excited by the role, we encourage you to apply

Role Purpose

The Website & Communications Manager will lead iniva’s communications for a four-year fixed-term
project (3 days per week), with responsibilities evolving across the project — from setting up systems
and plans in Year 1 to delivering public activity, website redevelopment and legacy outputs in later
phases.

Focusing on Living Legacies, the postholder will lead communications activity to grow and diversify
audiences while maintaining strong engagement with existing audiences. They will manage a small
communications team, including the Communications Coordinator, and coordinate different
freelancers over the life of the project, such as a PR Consultant, Website Developer and Podcast
Producer to deliver clear, consistent and values-led communication across the organisation.
Working closely with a freelance Website Developer and internal teams, the postholder will oversee
the redevelopment of iniva’s website, ensuring it is accessible, user-friendly and supports the
project’s digital content and long-term needs. They will also work collaboratively with the Senior
Fundraising Manager, Project Manager and Project Curator to ensure joined-up, timely storytelling that
reflects the aims of the project and supports audience engagement.

Project Specific Duties

The duties below reflect the role across its four-year term. Activity in Years 1–2 will focus on
communications planning, audience development, team coordination and early digital work. Website
redevelopment (Years 2–3) and press activity for exhibitions (Years 3–4) will increase in later phases.
Not all responsibilities will be active at the same time.

Communications Strategy, Planning and Audience Development

• To review, refine and deliver the Living Legacies Communications Plan in collaboration with the wider project team, ensuring alignment with audience development goals, legacy planning and funder expectations.
• To lead audience development activity for Living Legacies, balancing growth and diversification with the retention of iniva’s existing audiences.
• To ensure consistent application of iniva and Living Legacies brand, tone of voice and values across all communications outputs.
• To establish and maintain communications systems, workflows and standards to support effective delivery across the team and with external contributors.
• To manage marketing, communications and documentation budgets ensuring activity is delivered within agreed resources for the organisation.

Website Redevelopment & Digital Experience

• To provide oversight of the redevelopment of iniva’s website (2027-2028), working closely with the Website Developer and internal stakeholders to ensure the site meets accessibility standards, audience engagement objectives and digital preservation needs.
• To manage the Website Developer and relevant budget lines to deliver a user-friendly, accessible website that supports archival access, digital outputs and the wider public programme.
• To ensure the website reflects the interpretive aims of Living Legacies and supports long-term access to project outputs, including oral histories, exhibitions and archival content.
• To gather and commission content from project partners and programme leads to ensure inclusive, participant-led storytelling is reflected across digital platforms.

Content, Campaigns & Creative Management

•  To oversee the creation, scheduling and publication of engaging digital content for Living Legacies, working with the Communications Coordinator across social media, email newsletters and website updates to raise awareness of the project, grow and engage existing and new audiences, and share stories, opportunities and project milestones.
• To commission and manage promotional materials, including digital and print assets, working with graphic designers, photographers, videographers and other freelance creatives to create compelling content that reflects the project's values and reaches diverse audiences.
•  To provide clear briefs, quality control and sign-off for commissioned content, ensuring outputs are on brand, accessible, high quality and delivered on schedule, and support meaningful engagement with participants, partners and audiences.
• To coordinate the promotion of project events and exhibitions, including digital and print listings, invitations, ticketing and on-site communications logistics, helping to maximise attendance, participation and the visibility of Living Legacies across communities and partner networks.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting

• To oversee monitoring and evaluation of communications activity for Living Legacies, drawing on digital engagement data across web, email and social media platforms to understand audience reach, engagement and impact.
• To lead on communications-related reporting for senior management, the Board and funders, working with the Communications Coordinator to collate insights, data and evidence that demonstrate impact, learning and audience development.
• To use evaluation findings to inform ongoing communications strategy, audience development activity and project learning.

Collaboration & Internal Coordination

• To work collaboratively with the Project Manager, Project Curator, Senior Fundraising Manager and wider iniva team to ensure consistent messaging, joined-up communications and coordinated project delivery across all strands.
• To support shared understanding of communications priorities across exhibitions, podcasts, oral histories and community engagement activity, ensuring coherence of messaging and audience experience.
• To contribute to a culture of knowledge sharing, collective responsibility and values-led working across the organisation.

Press & Public Relations

•  To provide oversight and be the main point of contact for press and media activity for LivingLegacies, setting priorities, approving messaging and coordinating delivery with the Freelance PR Consultant, annually for three major project exhibitions and public programme (2027-2030).
• Liaise with external PR consultants to support programme promotion, ensuring assets and information are shared accurately and on time.
• To support the development and approval of press materials, including press releases and image assets, ensuring clarity, consistency and alignment with project messaging and organisational values.
• To oversee media listings, press scheduling and coverage tracking, using insights to inform future communications planning in consultation with the PR Consultant.
• To ensure compliance with funder branding and visibility requirements, including National Lottery Heritage Fund acknowledgement guidelines.

General Duties (In common with all iniva staff)

• To support the philosophy, aims and objectives of iniva and to champion its work.
• To promote and support equality, diversity and inclusion for all staff, contractors, volunteers and stakeholders.
•  To uphold collective responsibility, knowledge sharing and team working across the organisation.
• To contribute to, and follow iniva’s organisational policies and procedures, particularly policies relevant to your defined responsibilities and area of work.
• To ensure proper record keeping, filing and archiving of all communications and documentation related to your area of work.
• To engage in continuing professional development, seeking to stay up to date with developments and best practice in your area of work.

Note: This is a description of the job as it is at present constituted. It is iniva’s practice to examine job
descriptions regularly and to update them to ensure that they accurately reflect the job required to be
performed, or to incorporate proposed changes.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

The postholder for this role should demonstrate the following qualifications, experience, skills and
knowledge:

Essential

• Proven experience developing and delivering a communications strategy, ideally for cultural or heritage projects.
•  Experience in website development or managing website redevelopment projects, including working with web developers on design, UX, accessibility and audience engagement.
•  Strong copywriting and editorial skills, with the ability to produce clear, engaging and accessible content across platforms.
•  Experience creating and scheduling content for digital channels, including social media, email newsletters and websites.
•  Understanding of accessibility standards for digital content (e.g. WCAG 2.2) and inclusive communication practices.
• Experience in line management of staff and commissioning or supervising freelance creatives — including PR professionals, website developers, graphic designers, videographers, photographers and content producers — to deliver high-quality, on-brand and accessible content.
• Experience coordinating press and media engagement, including drafting press releases and managing listings.
• Ability to collect and interpret digital engagement data (e.g. social media insights, email performance, web analytics) for evaluation and reporting.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities.
• Collaborative approach and experience working across teams to ensure consistent, values-led messaging.

Applicants do not need agency-level PR experience; experience of coordinating or overseeing
press activity within a wider communications role is sufficient. We are not expecting candidates
to demonstrate equal depth across all areas; instead, we are looking for a strong overall match
against the Essential criteria.

Desirable

• Familiarity with iniva’s mission, and an understanding of visual arts, archives or Black and
• diaspora cultural heritage in the UK. Experience promoting exhibitions, podcasts, or public programmes within an arts or heritage
• context.
• Knowledge of web content management systems (e.g. WordPress), email marketing tools
• (e.g. Mailchimp) and marketing management tools (e.g. SocialBee and Hootsuite).
•  Experience producing or editing visual content using graphic design tools (e.g. Adobe Creative
• Suite, Canva and Figma), with an eye for layout, accessibility and brand consistency.
•  Experience developing or applying audience development strategies.
•  Understanding of digital preservation principles for online content.
• Experience creating inclusive, participant-led storytelling in partnership with community
• groups.
• Confidence in briefing designers and overseeing the production of promotional materials
• across print and digital.
• Awareness of brand compliance and funder visibility guidelines (e.g. The National Lottery Heritage Fund).

Note: Applicants cannot be expected to be equally strong on all the above criteria, but to provide
evidence across the range, in varying strengths and combinations. iniva are committed to supporting
staff in training and support to achieve the standards required to undertake the role.

Astra Foundation is seeking a Foundation Director; a dynamic, seasoned and strategic leader with a background in philanthropy who is motivated by their mission to combat loneliness in young adults, empower youth to reach their full potential, and reduce plastic pollution, primarily in the UK and France. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a young foundation and support the next phase of its evolution, building on strong foundations to further steward support for their priority areas and civil society partners. The ideal candidate will be collaborative, with a willingness to handle all aspects of the Foundation’s work, from high-level strategy and external relations to day-to-day administration.

At St Leonard’s Hospice, we are looking for a skilful communicator to lead our Communications team as Head of Communications. Building the charity’s brand and driving audience engagement, this roleis the strategic lead for communications at the Hospice, from clinical services to income generation.

This role is key to the Hospice achieving its aims to:

• Provide accessible services that meet the needs of our local community
• Improve public policy on, and raise awareness of, palliative and end-of-life issues
• Build partnerships that improve the quality of care and secure the Hospice’s future

The Head of Communications is intended to work collaboratively with other leadership roles across the Hospice to develop and implement an insight-based, audience-focused communications strategy to engage our three key audiences:

• Referral partners in the healthcare system
• Patients, families and carers who can benefit from Hospice services
• Members of the public who can enable our work through volunteering, donating and fundraising

To fulfil the Head of Communications role, you will need:

• Significant experience planning, delivering and evaluating communications strategy
• A proven track record of delivering impactful campaigns
• Strong leadership and management skills
• The ability to communicate complex messages sensitively and appropriately to a range of audiences

What’s in it for you:

• Flexibility for a great work/life balance
• Generous annual leave entitlement of up to 41 days
• Attractive pension schemes
• Extensive employee discounts on shops, holidays and lifestyle choices and Blue Light Card discounts
• Opportunities to grow your skills and career
• Free onsite car parking
• A supportive and friendly working environment

This is a full-time role, working 37.5 hours per week, usually Mon-Fri though occasional evening and weekend work will be required. This role supports working from home, though a regular presence on site at the Hospice is essential. The salary band for this role is £49,647 to £56,842 per annum.

Context of role:

Key responsibilities:

Support Service:

1. Event Coordination and Delivery

1.1: Coordinate and deliver regular community engagement activities, including; coffee mornings and

support events.

1.2: Organise and facilitate regular wellbeing and social activities, such as; walks or group sessions.

1.3: Represent the organisation at regional events, including supporting fundraising and CYP teams

when required.

1.4: Co-lead on bookings and coordination of Ty Uchaf, our respite house.

2. Awareness, Training and Engagement

2.1: Lead on regional awareness training delivery for non-emergency services and community-based

organisations.

2.2: Deliver additional 2wish training programmes as required, including Children & Young People

(CYP) and Bereavement in workplace support training.

2.3: Lead awareness and advocacy activities with local ‘support champions’, including professionals

within non-emergency services.

3. Partnership and Network Development

3.1: Actively engage with local bereavement networks through attendance at meetings, hosting

information stands and building strong professional relationships across the region.

3.2: Develop and maintain effective links with community partners to expand reach and awareness of

services.

4. Volunteer Support

4.1: Act as a key local contact for volunteers.

4.2: Support the recruitment, training and retention of volunteers in collaboration with the wider

team.

5. Administration, Monitoring and Reporting

5.1: Maintain and take ownership of relevant systems and spreadsheets, including those used for:

52: Event planning and delivery

5.3: Marketing and communications

5.4: Contact and engagement tracking

5.5: Professional and family engagement records

5.6: Accurately record interactions with stakeholders, including; families, professionals, champions

and referral partners.

5.7: Monitor and manage posts/content on Facebook family accounts.

6. Quality Assurance and Improvement

6.1: Support quality audits and contribute to continuous improvement processes.

6.2: Collect and review feedback from events and training sessions to inform future development.

2.0 General:

1.1: To be responsible for organising own work agenda, time management and administration

1.2: To keep clear and up to date records on database of activities with families and any ensuing

action

1.3: To promote the on-going work and continued support that 2wish can offer

1.4: To work as part of a team providing support to suddenly bereaved families

1.5: To work alongside support team and maintain a seamless approach to service delivery

1.6: To maintain a high degree of confidentiality in accordance with the charity’s policies

1.7: To show respect and sensitivity for the cultural and religious beliefs of families

1.8: To undertake learning opportunities and seek them out for the team

1.9: To adhere to all company policies and procedures including Safeguarding, Confidentiality,

Health and Safety and Lone Working; and to be proactive in implementing new safe working

practices as appropriate

1.10: To attend weekend and evening community events in support of the charity as necessary

1.11: Participate as and when required in team meetings and one-to-one meetings, and

undertake, as appropriate, courses/training/other developmental activities, which is relevant to

the role

1.12: To contribute to the evaluation and monitoring processes to ensure effectiveness of

services and activities provided

1.13: Contribute on the social media platforms maintained by 2wish

It is the nature of the work that tasks and responsibilities are in many circumstances

unpredictable and varied. All employees are therefore expected to work in a flexible way and

tasks, which are not specifically covered in their job description may have to be undertaken.

This role is subject to a DBS check.

VISION AND MISSION Waverley Abbey is a new spiritual home for a rising generation, based in one of England’s oldest places of Christian prayer, mission and justice. Today, we fire up believers and tool up leaders to play their part in the renewal of faith in the nation and around the world. We are a house of prayer, providing practical education, exceptional hospitality and sparking innovative enterprise. From the first Cistercian monastery in England to the global ministry of Every Day with Jesus, Waverley Abbey has been a place of Christian prayer, mission and justice for over 1,300 years. Now, in partnership with 24-7 Prayer, we are building a new kind of Abbey: a new spiritual home for the nation and a hub that awakens a generation to transform the story of our times through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

VALUES & CULTURE Our team really is something special. Our people are gold. Our people come from all different walks of life, and it’s this mix of brilliant personalities, experiences and insights that gives us that warm, open and friendly culture you can feel as soon as you meet us. But, however wonderfully different we all are, there are five things we’ve got in common, and they are the Waverley Abbey values. Our values are the key to what makes our culture so unique; they’re a reflection of who each of us is and they’re embedded in everything we do. OUR VALUES Integrity Compassion Selflessness Transformational Celebration SO WE EMPLOY AUTHENTIC, SELFLESS, COMPASSIONATE, TRANSFORMATIONAL AND FUN PEOPLE!

JOB PURPOSE This is an exciting senior leadership role with the opportunity to shape how Waverley Abbey tells its story, grows its reach and engages people with its vision. The Head of Marketing and Communications will provide strategic, creative and inspiring leadership across all aspects of marketing, communications, brand and digital engagement. Working across the breadth of Waverley Abbey — including the college, house, House of Prayer, events, hospitality, fundraising and the wider estate — the postholder will develop clear and compelling communication that strengthen our brand trust, reach new audiences and support sustainable revenue growth. This role will ensure that our communications reflect the quality, warmth and bold ambition of Waverley Abbey. You will be a talented and experienced marketing professional, an exceptional leader who mines the gold in others, and an experienced AI champion with a bold vision to play your part to see the Gospel of Jesus transform a generation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Strategic Marketing Leadership

> Develop and lead an ambitious, integrated marketing and communications strategy to support and supercharge Waverley Abbey’s vision, organisational priorities and income objectives.

> Translate organisational strategy into clear annual marketing plans, campaigns, priorities and measurable outcomes, and deliver those plans on time every time.

> Work closely with leaders across the college, House of Prayer, house and estate, hospitality, events, fundraising and other areas to understand their audiences and develop effective marketing responses.

> Significantly grow market share by connecting and building brand trust with new audiences, markets and opportunities to extend Waverley Abbey’s reach and influence.

> Champion and implement AI effectively and wisely to at least 10x our marketing output.

> Ensure marketing activity is focused, coordinated and capable of delivering both immediate results and long-term brand growth. Brand Leadership and Storytelling

> Deliver daily brand and individual stories above the line to build Waverley Abbey awareness, authority and trust. Champion excellent storytelling that communicates the impact of Waverley Abbey through the lives, experiences and communities impacted by our work.

> Lead and be principle guardian of the Waverley Abbey brand and sub-brands.

> Develop a clear, compelling and consistent brand story that captures the heritage, vision, breadth and future direction of Waverley Abbey.

> Ensure the brand is expressed consistently across all communications, campaigns, publications, digital platforms, signage and visitor touchpoints.

> Oversee the development and implementation of brand guidelines and support colleagues to apply them consistently and confidently.

> Protect and strengthen the reputation of Waverley Abbey; identifying, proactively managing and responding appropriately to potential risks. Campaigns, Audience Growth and Engagement

> Lead integrated fundraising campaigns that increase awareness, engagement, participation and income from core and new audiences.

> Develop targeted approaches for student recruitment that increase our HE student enrolments year on year on year, and provide a significantly growing ‘front door’ of non-HE students and trainees via a ‘digital university’.

> Significantly grow house, event and retreat guests to maximum capacity.

> Ensure campaigns are creative, audience-focused, aspirational and informed by meaningful data.

> Establish a clear annual marketing and communications plan aligned with organisational priorities — and deliver on time, every time.

> Strengthen the organisation’s ability to acquire new audiences while deepening engagement with existing supporters, students, guests, customers and partners. Digital Marketing and Content >Deliver the effective and wise use of AI to 10x our marketing output.

> Provide leadership for Waverley Abbey’s websites, social media channels, email communications and wider digital presence.

> Effectively be able to spin-up world class UX websites and apps in short timescales.

>Develop a digital-first approach that makes maximum use of content, video, photography, social media, search, email and emerging platforms.

>Oversee the planning and production of high-quality content that is engaging, market-leading and consistent with the Waverley Abbey voice.

> Ensure the best UX on all websites and that digital platforms are accurate, accessible, engaging, easy to navigate and optimised for search.

>Use analytics and audience insight to improve campaigns and tactics.

>Always be exploring new digital opportunities that could significantly increase Waverley Abbey’s reach and impact. Communications and Public Relations

> Lead Waverley Abbey’s external communications, media relations and public relations activity.

>Develop proactive opportunities to raise the profile of Waverley Abbey locally, nationally and within relevant Christian, educational and hospitality networks.

>Oversee press releases, media statements, articles, briefing materials and external announcements.

>Build strong and constructive relationships with journalists, media partners, influencers and other key stakeholders.

> Lead communications planning during sensitive or high-profile situations, working closely with the CEO and relevant senior leaders.

> Ensure Waverley Abbey communicates with clarity, confidence and integrity. Fundraising and Partnership Communications

> Work in close partnership with fundraising colleagues to develop compelling cases for support, campaigns and supporter communications.

> Ensure fundraising materials communicate Waverley Abbey’s vision, need and impact with clarity.

> Support the development of strategic partnerships that increase the organisation’s profile, influence and reach.

> Create high-quality communications resources for funders, donors, partners, churches and other key stakeholders. Team Leadership and Development

> Lead, inspire and develop a high-performing Marketing and Communications team in collaboration with the Senior Marketing Manager.

> Create a collaborative, creative and supportive culture in which team members are trusted, equipped and accountable.

> Set clear objectives and priorities for the team, ensuring workloads and resources are managed effectively.

> Provide regular one-to-ones, feedback, coaching, development conversations and performance reviews.

> Support the personal and professional development of direct reports, identifying opportunities for growth and increased responsibility.

> Commission and manage freelancers, agencies and specialist suppliers where appropriate.

> Build positive and productive relationships across the organisation, enabling the Marketing and Communications team to operate as a trusted strategic partner. Planning, Budgets and Performance

> Manage the Marketing and Communications budget responsibly, ensuring effective use of resources and demonstrable value — always within budget.

> Establish clear measures of success across brand awareness, audience growth, engagement, recruitment, conversion and income.

> Provide regular performance reports, insight and recommendations to the CEO and Executive Team.

> Use data, audience research and market insight to inform decisions and continually improve performance.

> Manage multiple projects and priorities effectively, ensuring high quality work is delivered on time and within budget. Data and Compliance

> Ensure marketing communications comply with UK GDPR, data protection, consent and privacy requirements.

> Maintain professional, ethical and legally compliant standards across all communications activity. Leadership and Organisational Contribution As a senior Executive member at Waverley Abbey, the postholder will:

> Contribute actively to organisational strategy, planning and decision-making.

> Build strong relationships across all areas of Waverley Abbey and work generously across organisational boundaries.

> Model leadership that is clear, courageous, compassionate and accountable.

> Champion a culture of excellence, collaboration and continuous improvement.

> Embody Waverley Abbey’s values of Integrity, Compassion, Selflessness, Transformation and Celebration.

> Act as an ambassador for Waverley Abbey, representing the organisation externally and internally confidently and professionally.

> Undertake other reasonable duties consistent with the seniority and purpose of the role.

PERSON SPECIFICATION Experience — Essential

> Significant senior-level experience in marketing, communications or brand.

> A strong track record of developing and delivering successful marketing and communications strategies.

> Experience of leading integrated campaigns across digital and traditional channels.

> Demonstrable success in growing audiences, increasing engagement and delivering measurable organisational outcomes.

> Experience of leading, managing and developing a marketing or communications team.

> Strong experience of AI, digital marketing, content strategy, social media, websites, email marketing and audience analytics.

> Experience of working effectively with senior leaders and providing trusted strategic advice.

> Experience of managing budgets, agencies, suppliers and multiple projects.

> Experience of using data insight to evaluate performance and make decisions.

Experience — Desirable

> Experience within a complex, multi-product environment — charity, Christian organisation, education provider or hospitality organisation.

> Experience of student recruitment, fundraising communications, events marketing or customer acquisition.

> Experience of working across an organisation with several distinct audiences, services or brands.

Knowledge and Skills — Essential

> Excellent strategic thinking, with the ability to translate vision into focused and achievable plans.

> Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

> Strong creative judgement and the ability to recognise and develop compelling stories.

> A sophisticated understanding of brand, audience development and customer journeys.

> Excellent leadership and people-management skills.

> Strong project-management and organisational skills, with the ability to balance strategic leadership and practical delivery. > Commercial awareness and an understanding of how marketing supports organisational growth and income generation.

> Confidence in analysing data, measuring impact and presenting clear recommendations.

Knowledge and Skills — Desirable

> A relevant degree or professional marketing qualification.

> Membership of the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

> Working knowledge of content management systems, customer relationship management systems, email marketing tools and creative software.

> Understanding of the UK higher education landscape.

Personal Qualities The successful candidate will be:

> An imaginative and ambitious leader who is excited by the opportunity to build something significant.

> A gifted storyteller who communicates with clarity, warmth and authenticity.

> Strategic and creative, while also able to bring structure, focus and delivery.

> Collaborative, generous and able to work effectively with colleagues holding different responsibilities and perspectives.

> Emotionally intelligent and confident in navigating complexity.

> Proactive, resourceful and comfortable taking appropriate initiative.

> Committed to excellence without losing warmth, humanity or perspective.

> Resilient, adaptable and able to respond positively to change.

> Personally aligned with the Christian vision and values of Waverley Abbey. Occupational Requirement There is an occupational requirement for the postholder to be a practising Christian. The successful candidate will be expected to affirm Waverley Abbey’s Statement of Faith, participate in the prayer life of the organisation and conduct themselves in a way that is consistent with its Christian ethos and values. This requirement is applied in accordance with Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010. Additional Requirements

> Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends in support of significant events, campaigns or organisational activity. > Willingness to travel occasionally for meetings, events and partnership activity.

> This job description reflects the current requirements of the role. It may be reviewed as Waverley Abbey develops, following consultation with the postholder. 

Context of role:

The Outreach Officer plays a key role in raising awareness of services, strengthening community
partnerships and supporting the delivery of high-quality bereavement support activities across the
region. The postholder will engage with local networks, coordinate events, and support volunteers
while ensuring effective monitoring, reporting and continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities:
Support Service:
1. Event Coordination and Delivery
1.1: Coordinate and deliver regular community engagement activities, including; coffee mornings and
support events.
1.2: Organise and facilitate regular wellbeing and social activities, such as; walks or group sessions.
1.3: Represent the organisation at regional events, including supporting fundraising and CYP teams
when required.
1.4: Co-lead on bookings and coordination of Ty Uchaf, our respite house.
2. Awareness, Training and Engagement
2.1: Lead on regional awareness training delivery for non-emergency services and community-based
organisations.
2.2: Deliver additional 2wish training programmes as required, including Children & Young People
(CYP) and Bereavement in workplace support training.
2.3: Lead awareness and advocacy activities with local ‘support champions’, including professionals
within non-emergency services.
3. Partnership and Network Development
3.1: Actively engage with local bereavement networks through attendance at meetings, hosting
information stands and building strong professional relationships across the region.
3.2: Develop and maintain effective links with community partners to expand reach and awareness of
services.
4. Volunteer Support
4.1: Act as a key local contact for volunteers.
4.2: Support the recruitment, training and retention of volunteers in collaboration with the wider
team.
5. Administration, Monitoring and Reporting
5.1: Maintain and take ownership of relevant systems and spreadsheets, including those used for:
52: Event planning and delivery
5.3: Marketing and communications
5.4: Contact and engagement tracking
5.5: Professional and family engagement records
5.6: Accurately record interactions with stakeholders, including; families, professionals, champions
and referral partners.
5.7: Monitor and manage posts/content on Facebook family accounts.
6. Quality Assurance and Improvement
6.1: Support quality audits and contribute to continuous improvement processes.
6.2: Collect and review feedback from events and training sessions to inform future development.

2.0 General:
1.1: To be responsible for organising own work agenda, time management and administration
1.2: To keep clear and up to date records on database of activities with families and any ensuing
action
1.3: To promote the on-going work and continued support that 2wish can offer
1.4: To work as part of a team providing support to suddenly bereaved families
1.5: To work alongside support team and maintain a seamless approach to service delivery
1.6: To maintain a high degree of confidentiality in accordance with the charity’s policies
1.7: To show respect and sensitivity for the cultural and religious beliefs of families
1.8: To undertake learning opportunities and seek them out for the team
1.9: To adhere to all company policies and procedures including Safeguarding, Confidentiality,
Health and Safety and Lone Working; and to be proactive in implementing new safe working
practices as appropriate
1.10: To attend weekend and evening community events in support of the charity as necessary
1.11: Participate as and when required in team meetings and one-to-one meetings, and
undertake, as appropriate, courses/training/other developmental activities, which is relevant to
the role
1.12: To contribute to the evaluation and monitoring processes to ensure effectiveness of
services and activities provided
1.13: Contribute on the social media platforms maintained by 2wish
It is the nature of the work that tasks and responsibilities are in many circumstances
unpredictable and varied. All employees are therefore expected to work in a flexible way and
tasks, which are not specifically covered in their job description may have to be undertaken.
This role is subject to a DBS check.

Location: London (with hybrid working available)
Closing date: Thursday 10 September
Interview date: Thursday 24 September in London
Salary: £100,000 pa

Brook is a 4 Day Week employer

About Brook

Brook believes in a society where everyone is supported to live healthy, safe and fulfilling lives. For over sixty years, Brook has been a pioneering force, transforming lives and communities. Brook fights for the right to excellent sexual health, mental health and wellbeing, offering lifelong support that is inclusive, non-judgmental and accessible to all. Our unique offer combines clinical services, relationships and sex education, outreach in community settings, wellbeing programmes and counselling. In 2025/26, we supported 1.45 million people through our frontline services. We delivered 4,053 mental health and wellbeing interventions, supported 111,931 people through our education and wellbeing work and supported 57,071 people through our all-age clinical services.

About the role

We’re looking for a Director of Engagement, Communications & Income to provide strategic leadership across income generation, service development, marketing, communications, policy and external engagement.

The role is key to strengthen organisational sustainability by securing diverse and sustainable income streams.  You will provide strategic leadership for service development and oversee the identification, development and submission of high-value, complex bids and tenders for commissioned services. 

You will oversee communications, marketing and brand activity ensuring communications effectively position the organisation to attract funders, donors, corporate partners and stakeholders.  You will lead the organisation’s external engagement strategy to enhance profile, influence and reach.

About you
You will have significant senior leadership experience and be skilled at collaborative working. Your outstanding leadership, influencing and relationship-building skills will be evidenced through a track record of securing income from diverse sources. You will have extensive experience in in communications, brand development and stakeholder engagement.

Your ability to efficiently manage a complex and busy workload with conflicting priorities will enable you to work well under pressure and deliver to deadlines. You will have an in-depth knowledge of the charitable funding landscape, the public sector commissioning environment and a broad range of communications activities. 

Benefits of working for Brook:

• 4 Day Week (Working 20% hours less without salary decrease)
• Annual leave – 28 days per annum, increasing up to 33 days plus 8 bank holidays 
• Sick pay (from 3 up to 12 weeks fully paid) 
• Flexible working 
• Gratitude scheme 
• Assisted purchase scheme 
• Cycle to Work up to £1k 
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) 
• Long service awards 
• Maternity and paternity pay 
• Pension scheme – Employee pension contributions matched by Brook up to 4% of qualifying earnings
• Training and development opportunities 
• Coaching

Please note - this role requires the successful applicant to undertake an enhanced DBS check. Candidates must be able to provide paperwork demonstrating their right to work in the UK.

Please note: internal applicants with live sanctions will not be considered for this role. 

We reserve the right to close this vacancy when we are in receipt of sufficient applications. Should you wish to apply for this post you are advised to submit your application as soon as possible. 

Due to the high number of applications for this post, it will not be possible to respond to every application. We will contact you within 4 weeks of the closing date if you have been shortlisted for the role. 

Thank you for your interest in working for Brook.
 

Brook Safeguarding with Purpose

Working with People Safely. Safe Place, Safe People. 

Senior Marketing Officer - Supporter Activation 

Contract type: 12-month Fixed Term Contract, Full Time –35hours per week

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

Travel: UK and potential international travel. Will be required to liaise with internal stakeholders outside of the UK, in varying time zones.

 
Salary: £41,325 per year with excellent benefits 
 

Change starts with water. Change starts with you. 

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

About WaterAid 

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

About the team 

The Activation team sits within the Supporter Marketing team which plays a key role in our successful and innovative fundraising programme. The team is vital to the long-term income growth of the organisation; recruiting new individual givers and increasing the engagement of existing supporters through an audience led communication programme of diverse channels and products. 

About the role 

In this Senior Marketing Officer role with the Activation Team you will be responsible for the management and delivery of the Press Inserts campaigns. You will be supporting the Senior Marketing Manager and taking direct responsibility in the exploration and delivery of new campaigns, projects and channels. The role will also include support in the delivery of the DRTV and Brand programmes as well as supporting with ad hoc team requirements.

It’s an exciting time to join as we look to new and exciting ways to tell our story so you’ll be working with a range of internal and external teams to drive the programme forward. 

In this role, you will: 

1. Work closely with multiple internal and external teams, creative and media agencies and printers. Manage key agency relationships, including liaising with account managers to deliver campaigns and projects. 
2. Be responsible for developing the strategy, analysis and reporting of ongoing Press Insert campaigns. 
3. Work with the Insight Team and creative agencies to manage and deliver audience focussed communications. 
4. Support the Senior Marketing Manager (Supporter Activation) to prepare annual plans and budgets and manage monthly cost monitoring and invoice processing. 
5. Collaborate with relevant colleagues in other departments to identify and implement new cross-working opportunities. 
6. Champion WaterAid’s commitment to equity, inclusion and safeguarding. 

Requirements

To be successful, you will need: 

• Proven experience in a successful direct marketing, fundraising, supporter activation and/or supporter engagement and/or customer marketing role. 

• Experience working in a project managing role, in particular leading or supporting on the delivery of complex campaigns with multiple stakeholders. 

• Ability to work flexibly and independently, to manage varying competing priorities and meet strict deadlines with often changing priorities 

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

• Experience of project managing direct marketing campaigns from start to finish across a range of channels, including print, telemarketing and digital.

• Experience of presenting to and project managing internal and external stakeholders.

• Experience of working in the voluntary/fundraising sector. 

• Experience of working in a fast-paced environment and being able to work to short deadlines 

Closing date: Applications close 12:00 PM UKtime on 31/08/2026. Interviews are expected to take place the week commencing 14/09/2026 

How to apply: Click Apply to upload your CV and cover letter
 

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

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

Pre‑employment screening 

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

Benefits

• 36days’ holiday (including 8 Bank Holidays) 
• Option to buy an extra 5days’ annual leave 
• Employer pension contribution up to 10% 
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements 
• Season ticket loan 
• Free annual eye tests 
• ‘Give as you Earn’ charitable giving scheme 
• Enhanced parental leave (maternity, adoption/surrogacy, shared parental and paternity) 
• Sabbaticals 
• One paid volunteer day each year 

As part of our annual leave policy, all employees receive three additional days of annual leave on top of their standard allocation of 25 days. These days are designated to cover the period when our UK office closes between Christmas and New Year, allowing all UK WaterAiders to take a well-deserved break. 

These days are automatically scheduled and cannot be changed or moved. Annual leave is accrued based on your start date. If sufficient leave has not been accrued by the time of the closure, the 3 days will be taken as unpaid leave or pro-rated, depending on your circumstances. 

Our People Promise 

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

Equal Opportunities 

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

Safeguarding 

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

Together, we’ll change the world through water.

Join us and be part of the change!

Who we are

IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) is a national charity working to ensure that children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the educational support they are legally entitled to. Since we were formed in 1983, we have helped to improve the education experience of thousands of children and young people across England. We do this by providing free and independent legal advice and casework support for families, undertaking policy work and delivering training on the SEND legal framework.

What you’ll do

Reports to: Chief Executive

Location: Home-based or Hybrid (with frequent travel for events and meeting with parliamentarians and other stakeholders) 

We are seeking a Policy Manager to lead IPSEA's policy and influencing work to achieve positive change for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families. Working closely with the Chief Executive, Head of Legal and Training, trustees and colleagues across the organisation, you will set strategic policy priorities and develop evidence-based influencing plans that support IPSEA's mission and long-term objectives.

Drawing on insights from our advice and tribunal services, legal expertise and the experiences of families, you will identify systemic issues within the SEND system and develop policy solutions that improve children and young people's access to the support and education to which they are entitled. You will ensure that IPSEA's policy positions are credible, legally robust and informed by the lived experiences of those we support.

You will lead IPSEA's engagement with government, Parliament and other key decision-makers, identifying opportunities to influence legislation, policy and practice at both national and local level. This includes overseeing responses to consultations, parliamentary inquiries and calls for evidence, as well as preparing briefings and strategic advice to support senior-level engagement and advocacy.

Working collaboratively with colleagues across legal, communications, fundraising and training teams, you will ensure IPSEA's policy, campaigning and public affairs activities are aligned and maximise the organisation's impact. You will also monitor developments across the political, legal and policy landscape, helping IPSEA respond proactively to emerging opportunities and challenges affecting the rights of children and young people with SEND.

This role offers the opportunity to make a real difference as part of a small, friendly, and dedicated team. If you are passionate about helping children and young people with SEND and have the skills and experience needed, we would love to hear from you.

Who are we looking for?

You will have significant experience in a senior policy and campaigning/public affairs role and have good knowledge of local and national government structure including the legislative process.

You the ability to build and maintain relationships with a range of stakeholders including MPs, civil servants, campaigners and parents. You exhibit tact and diplomacy and can be impactful with people of varying levels and experience.

Your research and critical thinking skills enable you to analyse policy and data to produce relevant reports and position papers. You have experience of drafting organisation responses to government consultations and parliamentary calls for evidence.

IPSEA should also reflect the communities we support. We would particularly like to hear from candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people, under-served communities and disabled people, as well as those with lived experience of the SEND system, either as a child or as a parent/carer.

What we can offer you

• 5% employer pension contributions
• Healthcare cash plan
• Flexible working arrangements
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays plus an additional day off for your birthday (pro-rata if part-time).

To apply

Visit our website to download a recruitment pack and application form.

Deadline for applications: 9am on 7 September 2026.

First-round interviews: on 15 September 2026 in our offices in Takeley, Essex, with second-round interviews (online) on 18 September 2026.

NO AGENCIES PLEASE.