524 Organisational development and change lead jobs

About Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance
Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) exists so nobody in Scotland suffers or dies because medical help cannot get there in time. People can get sick or have accidents anywhere and anytime. But in Scotland there are places where urgent medical help cannot reach people. Or help gets there too late. And when lives are at risk every minute matters. As a charity we rely on donations from the Scottish public, companies and communities to ensure that urgent medical help gets to the patient when it is needed, wherever they are and at whatever time of day.

The Role
We are seeking an organised, proactive and people-focussed HR Assistant to join our HR function at Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance. Working closely with the HR Officer and colleagues throughout the charity, the successful candidate will coordinate recruitment and onboarding activities, maintain HR systems and records, support payroll and learning and development processes, and help ensure our people practices remain compliant, efficient and aligned with our values.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their HR career in a role that offers exposure across the full employee life cycle. You will play a key role in delivering an efficient and professional HR service, supporting colleagues and managers across the charity while helping to create a positive employee experience.

This role will be based in Perth, at Scone Airport. SCAA supports flexible and hybrid working arrangements—our current approach typically includes two office days per week for those working on a hybrid basis (pro-rata). This is a part-time position working 22.5 hours per week. We offer flexibility regarding the working pattern, which will be agreed with the successful candidate to support both individual and charity needs. Occasional visits to our Aberdeen base will be required.

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Has previous administrative experience, ideally within an HR, people or office environment.
• Has excellent organisational skills and can manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Demonstrates strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
• Is confident using Microsoft Office applications and HR systems.
• Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Understands the importance of handling confidential information sensitively and professionally.
• Enjoys working collaboratively and building positive relationships across an organisation.
• Is committed to providing excellent customer service and creating a positive colleague experience.

A CIPD level 3 qualification, or equivalent, (or working towards one) would be advantageous but is not essential.

Our Benefits

• Pension: 12% employer’s & 5% employee’s contribution (after 3 months’ service)  
• Annual Leave: 36 days (incl. public holidays) + an extra day for your birthday (and additional days with long service) pro-rata
• Death in Service benefit: 4 times annual salary
• Optional Private Medical Insurance plan and Cashplan
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Enhanced Maternity/Adoption/Paternity Pay
• Access to Blue Light Card
• Learning and Development Opportunities

Selection Process

Interviews will take place at our base at Perth Airport in Scone during the week commencing the 19 October 2026.

How to apply
Please refer to the full job pack on our website.

Application deadline is 5pm on Sunday 11th October 2026. 

Worcester Community Trust (WCT) is looking for a Wellbeing Services Lead Project Worker to coordinate and lead the day-to-day delivery of WCT’s Wellbeing projects; supporting individuals to improve their wellbeing, build confidence, and move closer to work, education, or training.

The Lead Project Worker will oversee and coordinate the staff team and volunteers, allocate referrals and assess workloads, ensure effective service delivery and maintain strong local operational partnerships to achieve high-quality outcomes for individuals who use the service.  They will also carry their own caseload.

Key Areas of Responsibility

Service Delivery & Coordination

• Coordinate the day-to-day work of the Wellbeing team.
• Oversee referrals, case allocation, and staff caseload management.
• Support a caseload of individuals.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records, case notes, and data entries.
• Support the Contract Manager in achieving performance targets and reporting requirements.
• Facilitate team meetings and reflective practice sessions.
• Be a point of contact for advice to other team members with complex cases

Frontline Support

• Direct support to individuals through 1:1 sessions and group activities.
• Assist individuals to access employment, education, or training opportunities, improving confidence and wellbeing.
• Identify barriers to employment and provide tailored advice, guidance, and action planning.
• Deliver or facilitate workshops on employability and wellbeing themes.
• Ensure a client-centred, trauma informed non-judgmental approach in all interactions

Partnership & Engagement

• Maintain operational relationships with local agencies, referral partners, and community organisations.
• Promote WCT’s Welfare projects and increase referrals into services.
• Attend community events, and networking sessions to raise awareness of the service

Monitoring & Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of participant progress, outcomes, and referrals.
• Collect and input data to support internal and external reporting.
• Provide case studies and feedback to the Contract Manager for inclusion in funder reports.

Team Support & Supervision

• Coordiante and mentor the team and volunteers in their daily work.
• Hold staff supervision for reflection opportunities on work and wellbeing.
• Encourage teamwork, reflective practice, and continuous improvement.
• Contribute and lead staff meetings, training sessions, and service development discussions.
• Model WCT’s values and champion best practice in all areas of delivery.
• Coordinate staff HR platform with staff data and maintain records of sickness and holiday – discuss with staff in team meetings
• Take part in staff annual appraisal and development

Safeguarding & Compliance

• Ensure safeguarding concerns are reported and acted upon in line with WCT policy.
• Follow WCT’s procedures on health and safety, equality, and confidentiality.
• Maintain high standards of confidentiality and information security.
• Act as a positive role model and champion WCT’s values in all areas of work.

What you get…

• Be part of an amazing, welcoming passionate community.
• Put your skills to use to create positive social impact.
• A voice and input into shaping and influence services and decisions.

What we offer…

• Holiday – 25 days plus bank holidays (pro-rata for PT staff) plus an extra day of birthday leave and two additional self-care days
• Commitment to continued professional development
• Access to Westfield Health which provides a range of benefits towards health & wellbeing as well as support with essential healthcare (after completion of probationary period)
• Free Parking
• Life Assurance and a pension contribution of 3%
• Access to professional bereavement and probate support
• An annual celebration and investment review
• A blue light card scheme

Representing the City

WCT is committed to equality of opportunity, fairness and inclusion, and to being representative of the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences.

To apply visit our website.

Closing Date: Wednesday 14th October 2026

Please note – this is a rolling advert. Applications will be reviewed regularly, and suitable candidates may be invited to interview before the closing date. Early application is recommended.

We are looking for an experienced people manager who has a passion for supporting individuals, families and communities through mental health crises. An exciting role that allows you to help shape the service, you will work to increase reach and drive quality through a strong collaborative approach. A new service in the area, Wigan Crisis Space provides a safe space for those experiencing mental and emotional distress, and suicidal ideation. Forming part of the Greater Manchester VCSE crisis pathway, we are an out-of-hours, non-clinical alternative to A&E for adults to access timely compassionate support from trained recovery workers – the service operates from 3pm to 10pm, 7 days a week.

Salary - £40,300 FTE per annum
Hours – 37 hours per week (full time) including out of hours and weekend management cover, and support on a rota basis.
Contract – Permanent
Location - Wigan Crisis Space, Crompton Street, Wigan, WN1 1YP. Office based and wheelchair accessible.

As the Service Manager, you will have a strong knowledge of the mental health landscape and a strong track record of effective management. You will have responsibility for two Team Leaders as well as overall leadership of the staff team (totalling 8). You will work closely with other service providers, as well as our Operational Manager, to offer first-class support for Wigan residents.

Main responsibilities:
• Provide leadership and management to the staff team to ensure the delivery of a safe, effective and appropriate service to adults living within the Borough of Wigan.
• Ensure that the service is integrated, comprehensive and makes a difference to people using it, with clear focus on improving mental and emotional health and wellbeing as well as social outcomes - meaning that people will be healthier, safer, more resilient, and better able to enjoy life’s opportunities.
• Facilitate opportunities for staff, volunteers and people who use the service to contribute to the ongoing development of the Crisis Space by sharing learning, listening and sharing and responding to feedback.
• Create and implement a continuous development plan for the service to ensure it delivers quality support for Wigan residents.
• The Crisis Space is an out of hours service that operates from 3pm – 10pm, 7 days per week. This post will require a minimum of two shifts per month during the week from 2pm to 10pm (on site) and two shifts per month during the weekend from 2pm to 10pm (on site).

Benefits:
• Annual paid leave entitlement of 30 working days plus bank holidays.
• Up to 6% matched-pension contributions.
• Flexible working arrangements and new starters have the right to make flexible working requests from day one of employment.
• Enhanced paid sick leave and paid family leave provisions.
• Eye care and winter flu jabs vouchers.
• Investment in your professional development with ongoing quality training and career development opportunities

Closing Date: 9th October 2026 at 23:59

Interviews are scheduled to take place on 22nd October in person.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:
We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process and you will be asked whether you require any adjustments if shortlisted for interview. We also make reasonable adjustments on the job, where required. We are committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Intersectionality is important to us and we particularly welcome applications from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates because we are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Family Action. We know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for families and children and strive for our workforce to be truly representative of the diverse communities we support.

All candidates with a disability are welcome to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme and request priority consideration for an interview, provided they meet the essential criteria for the role.

To help remove financial barriers to working with us, we will reimburse reasonable travel costs if you are invited to attend an interview in person.

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for influencing change for girls and young women?

We're looking for an experienced public affairs & influencing manager to lead Girlguiding's policy, influencing and external affairs agenda. Reporting to the head of corporate communications and external affairs, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping organisational positions on the issues that matter most to girls and young women, ensuring their voices are heard by decision-makers and helping to drive meaningful change.

In this role, you'll lead the development and delivery of high-impact policy and influencing strategies, working closely with government, parliamentarians, sector partners and internal stakeholders. You'll build strategic relationships, identify opportunities to influence policy and public debate, and translate insight and research into effective campaigns that strengthen Girlguiding's reputation as a leading voice on girls' lives.

We're looking for someone with significant experience in policy, public affairs and influencing, alongside strong political judgement and stakeholder management skills. You'll be an excellent communicator, capable of translating complex issues into clear and compelling messages, and confident advising senior leaders on high-profile and sensitive issues. A proven track record of delivering successful influencing campaigns, leading teams and working effectively in fast-paced environments is essential.

The post requires occasional evening and weekend working, for which time off in lieu will be given.

Stella Maris UK is looking for an experienced and confident Senior HR Manager to drive and deliver our people-focused HR strategy that supports employee wellbeing and organisational growth.

About the Role

Reporting to the Director of Resources, this is a senior leadership role with responsibility for promoting the vision, mission and values of the organisation. 

You’ll oversee all aspects of human resources, including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, learning and development, and policy implementation, and will provide leadership and support to the HR team. 

You’ll also work collaboratively across the organisation to foster a positive, inclusive and high-performing workplace culture. 

About You

We’re looking for a confident leader with experience in human resources leadership, employee relations, organisational development, workforce planning, and people management, as well as experience in leading teams and building strong relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

You’ll;

• Have CIPD or equivalent professional HR qualification.

• Be educated to degree level or equivalent experience.

• Have experience managing HR functions within a charity, not-for-profit, public sector, or mission-driven organisation.

• Have experience of advising senior leaders on people matters.

• Have strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.

• Have strategic thinking and organisational development capability.

• Have strong communication, coaching, and influencing abilities

Assistant Headteacher – Inclusion, Safeguarding and DSL

• Location: TreeHouse School, Woodside Ave, London, N10 3JA
• Hours: Permanent, full time (37.3 hours per week)
• Salary: £62,541 to £66,744 per annum
• Start date: January 2027

About TreeHouse School:

TreeHouse School, part of Ambitious about Autism, is an Ofsted outstanding specialist school supporting children and young people aged 4–19 with autism and complex learning needs. We are committed to providing an exceptional learning environment where every pupil can thrive and achieve their full potential.

About the role:

We are looking for a resilient and values led Assistant Headteacher of Inclusion, Safeguarding and DSL to join our Senior Leadership Team.

This is a pivotal role with responsibility for safeguarding, inclusion and pupil welfare for autistic children and young people with complex needs.

You will lead on child protection and safeguarding, working closely with our team of deputy and assistant DSLs and with external partners including Social Care, Health, Police, LADO and Prevent.

You will also provide strategic oversight of inclusion, behaviour, wellbeing, healthcare, therapeutic support, Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and least restrictive practice, working collaboratively with education, nursing and wider multidisciplinary teams.

This is not an office based role. You will need to have a strong presence across the school, supporting pupils, families and staff, providing visible leadership and responding calmly and effectively when complex situations arise.

What we are looking for:

• Has strong safeguarding experience and ideally experience as a DSL or Deputy DSL.
• Has a good understanding of autism, SEND and complex needs, with experience in an education or specialist setting preferred.
• Could be an experienced education professional, SEN specialist or social worker with substantial relevant experience and a strong understanding of education.
• Is confident making difficult safeguarding decisions, managing referrals and escalating concerns when necessary.
• Is resilient, persistent and able to manage complex cases involving vulnerable children.
• Can build strong relationships with pupils, families, staff and external agencies.
• Can lead and develop staff, ensuring safeguarding training, recording and procedures are consistently followed.

What we offer:

You will be well supported by an experienced safeguarding team, Senior Leadership Team and receive regular supervision and mentoring. There will also be opportunities to develop your expertise through DSL, trauma informed, autism and CALM training.

This is an opportunity to make a significant difference to the lives of autistic children and young people, while leading a team and helping shape excellent safeguarding and inclusive practice across the school.

If you are a confident safeguarding professional who combines expertise with compassion, resilience and determination, we would love to hear from you.

Shortlisting date: Friday 2nd of October

Outcome of application: Friday 2nd/Monday 5th of October

Interview date: Friday 9th and Tuesday 13th of October

Ambitious About Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious About Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search may be carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The safeguarding responsibilities of the post are as per the job description and person specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities, certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance

The Head of Operations will provide strategic leadership and oversight of HEY Smile Foundation’s governance arrangements, organisational systems and infrastructure, human resources and culture, and buildings and facilities. The role will ensure Smile has the people, processes, controls and resources to deliver its purpose reliably and respond confidently to future opportunities. Working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team, the postholder will translate organisational strategy into a clear operational plan, strengthen accountability and lead improvements across the charity. They will provide the CEO and trustees with timely information, assurance and practical recommendations on operational performance, capacity and risk.

This is a senior leadership role combining strategic oversight with the ability to secure delivery through colleagues, managers and specialist providers. The postholder will establish clear responsibilities, standards and reporting, intervening directly where necessary and building capacity so that routine delivery does not depend on the CEO.

Salary: £34,000 FTE (£20,400 actual salary) 
Contract: Permanent, part-time, 0.6 FTE 
Hours: 21 hours per week with flexibility as to how these are worked subject to business need and prior agreement 
Location: Hybrid, with regular attendance at our central London office (40%) 
Reporting to: Head of Policy and Advocacy 

Help shape public understanding of data and evidence 

We are looking for an experienced and proactive Press and Communications Officer to help raise the profile of the RSS, secure media coverage for our work, and ensure our expertise reaches policymakers, journalists and the wider public.

This is an exciting opportunity for a communications professional who enjoys translating complex topics into compelling stories and wants to contribute to evidence-informed public debate. 

About the role 

As Press and Communications Officer, you will lead and coordinate media and communications activity across the Society's policy, advocacy and public engagement work. You will build relationships with journalists, identify opportunities to showcase RSS expertise, support media-facing spokespeople, and deliver communications campaigns that enhance our influence and reputation.

You'll work across a wide range of issues, helping to explain the role of data, statistics and evidence in public life while ensuring the RSS is recognised as a trusted and authoritative voice. 

Key responsibilities include: 

• Developing and delivering communications campaigns and media plans.
• Generating positive media coverage and building strong relationships with journalists. 
• Drafting press releases, statements, briefings and opinion pieces. 
• Managing media enquiries and supporting RSS spokespeople.
• Creating and scheduling social media content.
• Identifying opportunities to contribute RSS expertise to current public debates.
• Monitoring and evaluating media coverage and communications impact.
• Supporting the development of a diverse network of expert ambassadors and spokespeople.

About you 

We're looking for someone who combines excellent communications skills with a strong news sense and a passion for making complex information accessible. 

You will have: 

• At least two years' experience in communications, press, public affairs or media relations.
• A strong track record of securing media coverage and building media relationships.
• Experience creating high-quality communications content, including press releases and social media content. 
• Experience planning and delivering communications campaigns.
• Excellent writing and editing skills.
• Strong organisational and project management abilities.
• Confidence working with senior stakeholders and subject matter experts.
• The ability to explain complex issues clearly to non-specialist audiences.

Experience in a membership organisation, charity, professional body, learned society, or policy-focused organisation would be advantageous, as would an interest in research, evidence, data or public policy.

Why join us? 

At the RSS, you'll be part of a friendly and collaborative team committed to improving the use of data and evidence across society. We offer: 

• Generous pension scheme with employer contributions of up to 10%.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas closure (pro rata).
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Cycle-to-work scheme.
• Season ticket loan.
• Employee Assistance Programme.

Apply now 

If you're an enthusiastic communications professional looking to make a meaningful impact through evidence, data and public engagement, we'd love to hear from you. 

Join us in helping ensure that statistics and evidence are at the heart of understanding and decision-making.

University College, Oxford (Univ), is seeking an ambitious and experienced fundraising professional to lead and develop our established regular and individual giving programme. 

It is an exciting time to join the College and become part of our high-performing, supportive fundraising and alumni relations team.

The well-established regular giving programme has a strong track record from telephone fundraising appeals to direct mail, online campaigns, Giving Days and face-to-face asks. Regular giving makes an important contribution to the College providing crucial support for core activities enabling us to continue to deliver world-class teaching, research and student support.

The post-holder will take strategic ownership of regular and individual giving, developing targeted campaigns to increase participation, grow philanthropic income and strengthen long-term relationships with alumni and friends.  You will also lead the development and stewardship of the 1249 Society, using data and donor insight to increase membership and retention.

The post-holder will need to be a self-starter who is highly organised, innovative and able to work on their own initiative.  You will have a keen eye for detail, strong data skills, excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate with a wide range of people with tact and sensitivity.

This post is offered on a full-time or part-time basis.  We offer a generous annual leave allowance, free lunch, an employee assistance programme and a range of other benefits.

If you're looking for a busy role where every day is varied and challenging, this could be the perfect role for you.

For more information about how to apply, please read the Further Particulars below or click the “Redirect to recruiter” button above.

Lead the next chapter for liver health in the UK

This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected and financially stable health charity at a pivotal moment of transformation.
Following a successful merger, the organisation has proudly just completed a full rebrand to Liver UK, bringing together services, information and advocacy across all ages. With a clear, trustee-approved strategy for 2026–2032 already in place, the next Chief Executive will focus on delivery, growth and national influence.

A strong platform and a planned transition

This role comes at a natural and positive point within a planned leadership transition.Our current Chief Executive has provided long-standing, successful leadership and is excited to hand over the rebranded charity for it to be led into its next phase of strategic development, sustainability and growth.
The incoming CEO will inherit a well-led organisation with strong governance, a clear strategic direction, and real momentum.

About the role

As Chief Executive, you will lead delivery of an established strategy, ensuring the organisation continues to grow its reach, impact and income.You will work closely with an engaged and supportive Board of Trustees to maintain high standards of governance, regulatory compliance and risk management, while strengthening the charity’s voice in national policy and public affairs.
This is a role that balances external influence with internal leadership, ensuring both impact and organisational resilience.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver a trustee-approved long-term strategy, refining priorities as needed
• Ensure robust governance, legal and regulatory compliance
• Lead policy, public affairs and national influencing activity
• Maintain financial sustainability and drive income growth
• Lead and develop a high-performing Senior Management Team
• Oversee delivery of high-quality services and information

About you

You are a credible and values-driven leader with senior experience in the charity, health or related sectors.
You will bring:

• Proven senior leadership experience at Director or Chief Executive Officer level
• Strong understanding of governance, finance and regulatory compliance
• Experience influencing policy and working with senior stakeholders
• A track record of delivering organisational growth and impact
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

You will be confident working with a Board of Trustees, able to build strong relationships, provide clear advice, and operate effectively in a governance-led environment. 

You will be motivated by improving health outcomes and confident leading an organisation with both national influence and strong operational delivery.

Why join us?

• A clear, trustee-approved strategy ready for delivery
• Strong governance, financial stability and organisational foundations
• A positive and well-managed leadership transition
• The opportunity to shape a newly unified, UK-wide charity
• A chance to make a meaningful difference in an under-recognised area of health
• A strong, engaged and motivated Board

A competitive salary will be offered, reflecting the experience, skills and leadership qualities of the successful candidate.

We are grateful for all interest shown in leading Liver UK. However, as our resources are currently focused on supporting our newly rebranded organisation, we are unable to provide individual feedback to applicants.

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We have multiple roles at different levels for an upcoming project.

We're partnering with a well-respected public sector organisation to appoint an experienced HR Change Consultant to support the delivery of a significant organisational change programme. This is an excellent opportunity for a change professional who is comfortable leading complex consultation processes, influencing senior stakeholders, and ensuring organisational change is delivered in a fair, compliant and people-focused way.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support organisational change initiatives including restructures, service redesign and workforce transformation programmes.
• Manage collective and individual consultation processes from planning through to implementation.
• Provide expert advice on employment law, redundancy, redeployment and organisational change matters.
• Build strong relationships with senior leaders, managers and trade union representatives.
• Develop business cases, change documentation, consultation materials and communications.
• Support risk management, governance and decision-making throughout the change lifecycle.
• Ensure all activity is delivered in line with legislation, organisational policy and best practice.

Essential Experience

✅ CIPD qualified

✅ Significant experience leading complex organisational change programmes

✅ Strong consultation management experience, including collective consultation

✅ Previous experience within the Public Sector (Local Government, NHS, Higher Education, Central Government or wider public bodies)

✅ Experience working in unionised environments and engaging with Trade Unions

✅ Sound knowledge of employment law, organisational change, redeployment and redundancies

✅ Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

What's on Offer?

• Opportunity to work on a high-profile transformation programme.
• Influence strategic workforce and organisational design decisions.
• Collaborative and purpose-driven public sector environment.
• Hybrid working arrangement.

🔥 Ideal for experienced HR Change Managers, Senior HR Business Partners, Organisational Development Consultants, or Workforce Transformation specialists looking to make an immediate impact.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

12-month fixed-term contract | Full-time 

Salary: £58,560 – £71,480 per annum

Hours: 35 per week

Location: Home-based with regular national travel 

Job reference number: 1766

Help shape the future of Cranstoun’s services 

Cranstoun is a social justice and harm reduction charity supporting and empowering people to live healthier and safer lives. Each year, we support more than 45,000 people through services including substance use, criminal justice, domestic abuse, housing and services for children and young people. 

Following a successful five-year strategy and significant growth, we remain ambitious about the difference we can make. As we enter our next phase, we are investing in the leadership and operational capability needed to support our continued development. We are now recruiting an Assistant Directors of Services to join our senior management team. 

This is a significant senior leadership role offering the opportunity to lead substantial service portfolios while helping shape how Cranstoun’s services are led and delivered across the organisation. 

The role 

Reporting to the Director of Operations, you will lead a substantial portfolio of complex commissioned services and senior operational managers. 

You will lead nine services with nine direct reports, spanning criminal justice and housing/homelessness provision. You will have clear accountability for ensuring services are safe, effective and well-led, with strong contractual performance, financial sustainability and positive outcomes for the people and communities we support. 

You will provide operational grip and evidence-based assurance, strengthen safeguarding and management accountability, build effective relationships with commissioners and partners, and ensure risks and underperformance are identified, escalated and addressed early. 

You will also work collectively with fellow senior operational leaders to embed a One Cranstoun approach, strengthening common standards, sharing learning, developing leadership capability and improving quality and resilience across our services. 

What you will be accountable for 

As an Assistant Director, you will take senior operational accountability for: 

• Safe, effective and well-led services – ensuring strong safeguarding, quality, operational risk management and service user outcomes.  
• Contractual performance – ensuring services deliver against contractual requirements and KPIs, with strong commissioner relationships and timely action to address underperformance.  
• Financial sustainability – maintaining strong financial oversight, effective workforce management and oversight of the sustainability of individual contracts.  
• Evidence-based assurance – using reliable performance, quality, workforce and financial information to identify risks and drive improvement.  
• Collective organisational leadership – working beyond individual portfolio boundaries to build consistent standards, stronger leadership and shared ways of working across Cranstoun.  

You will lead and develop senior operational managers, set clear expectations and create a culture in which support and accountability operate together. 

You will also lead and contribute to service mobilisation, transformation, workforce planning and continuous improvement. 

Who we are looking for 

We are looking for established senior operational leaders with substantial experience leading complex commissioned services and geographically dispersed teams. 

You will bring a strong track record of: 

• leading safe, high-quality services for people with complex needs;  
• safeguarding, quality and operational risk management;  
• contract and performance management;  
• managing significant service budgets and improving financial performance;  
• building effective relationships with commissioners, regulators and strategic partners;  
• leading service improvement, mobilisation and organisational change;  
• developing senior operational managers and addressing underperformance; and  
• using performance, quality, workforce and financial information to provide assurance and drive improvement.  

You will need to combine strategic leadership with operational pragmatism, understanding the detail when necessary while maintaining oversight of performance, risk, quality and sustainability across a complex portfolio. 

Above all, we are looking for collaborative, credible and values-led leaders who can support and challenge in equal measure, build leadership capability and bring people together around common standards and organisational priorities. 

Specialist experience 

For this role, you will need significant leadership experience across both Criminal Justice and Housing/Homelessness services, including housing or accommodation-based provision. 

You will understand the complexity of working across criminal justice, housing, local government and other statutory systems and be experienced in building effective relationships with commissioners and partners while maintaining strong operational and contractual oversight. 

This is a 12-month fixed-term appointment at an important stage in Cranstoun’s transformation, offering the opportunity to lead a significant portfolio, strengthen operational performance and help shape the future development of our operating model. 

Be part of Cranstoun’s next chapter 

Our successful five-year strategy has seen Cranstoun grow considerably, extending our reach and the range of services we provide. We remain ambitious and innovative, committed to developing services that respond to the changing needs of people and communities. 

As we look to the future, we are investing in the leadership, operational capability and organisational infrastructure needed to support our continued development, strengthening operational governance, consistency and assurance across our services. 

This role offers the opportunity to do more than manage established portfolios. You will help shape the future of our services and build an Operations Directorate characterised by high standards, clear accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement. 

Find out more 

Please refer to the accompanying recruitment pack for the full Job Description, Person Specification and details of the application process.

Please note: All posts are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

How to Apply:

For more details and to apply, please visit our website via the apply button. Please quote the appropriate Job Ref in all correspondence.

Applicants must be able to provide satisfactory evidence of their right to work in the UK at the application stage.

Sponsorship is not available for this post. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK that does not require employer sponsorship for the duration of the appointment.

Closing date: Sunday 20 September 2026.

We are an inclusive employer, committed to promoting equality and diversity in all areas of our work. 

Registered Charity No: 1061582

Salary: £53,500 per annum

Contract Type: Permanent

Closing date: 30 September 2026 at 12pm

Interview date: Week commencing 12 and 19 October 2026

About CARE

CARE International is a global humanitarian organisation leading the fight to end poverty in the world’s most challenging situations. Women and girls are at the centre of our work, because we cannot overcome poverty and inequality until all people have equal rights and opportunities. We know that when a crisis erupts, women are often the first to pick up the pieces, so we work alongside women, so they have the power to make change where it’s needed most. Founded in 1945, CARE currently works in over 100 countries and last year alone reached 53.4 million people through nearly 1,500 projects.

Why work for CARE International UK?

At CARE International UK, we're committed to creating lasting change in the fight against poverty and inequality around the world. Behind that impact is a community of talented, passionate people who bring expertise, collaboration and purpose to everything they do.

We're committed to fostering a workplace where colleagues feel valued, supported and empowered to contribute their best. As part of our People & Organisational Development team, you'll have the opportunity to shape how people experience working at CARE, influence organisation-wide initiatives, and help build an environment where individuals and teams can flourish.

This is a chance to use your expertise in a role that combines strategic influence with meaningful, people-centred work, all within an organisation driven by a clear social purpose.

About the role

Working closely with leaders across the organisation, you'll take the lead on talent management and learning and development initiatives that help colleagues build rewarding careers and reach their full potential. From leadership development and succession planning to career pathways and organisational capability, you'll play a pivotal role in ensuring CARE has the talent, skills and leadership needed to achieve its ambitions now and in the future.

You'll develop and deliver initiatives that strengthen employee engagement, support professional growth and contribute to a positive organisational culture. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, you'll help ensure colleagues have the tools, skills and experiences needed to reach their full potential and make their greatest contribution to CARE's mission.

You'll be instrumental in helping the organisation navigate change, strengthen communication and foster a shared sense of direction and purpose. Combining insight, creativity and practical delivery, you'll identify opportunities to improve how we support our people and continuously enhance the experience of our colleagues.

This is a varied and influential role for someone who enjoys building relationships, turning ideas into action and making a visible contribution to organisational success.

About you

You'll be an experienced people professional with a strong track record of delivering talent, learning, engagement and culture initiatives that drive organisational performance and improve employee experience. Combining both a strategic and pragmatic approach, you’ll be able to identify opportunities for improvement and find practical solutions.

Alongside your ability to build strong relationships, you’ll be able to influence and challenge constructively while maintaining credibility and trust. Experience within the charity, international development or wider values-led sector would be highly desirable, as would experience managing external consultants. Above all, you are collaborative, curious and solutions-focused, committed to continuous learning and passionate about creating an environment where people can thrive and do their best work.

Right to Work in the UK

All applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom at the time of appointment. Proof of right to work will be required as part of the recruitment process. For more information, please visit the UK Government's guidance on right to work.

Where you do not have current right to work in the UK, then this will be discussed with you as part of the recruitment process. Please note that not all roles are eligible for sponsorship and further information (should you require sponsorship to work in the UK) on eligibility can be found here.

Safeguarding 

CARE International UK has a zero-tolerance approach to any abuse or sexual harassment or exploitation of people in crisis by any of our staff, representatives or partners. CARE International UK expects all staff to share this commitment through our Safeguarding Policy (link here) and our Code of Conduct (link here). They are responsible for ensuring they understand and work within the remit of these policies throughout their time at CARE International UK.

Safeguarding the communities we work with is our top priority in everything we do, including recruitment. All offers of employment at CARE International UK are subject to: 

·   Satisfactory references. CARE International UK participates in theInter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme (link here).In line with this Scheme, we willrequest information from successful applicants’ previous employersabout any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment,or incidents under investigationwhen the applicant left employment.

·  Appropriate criminal record checks (including a Bridger check, link here).

By submitting an application, the applicant confirms his/her understanding of these recruitment procedures. 

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)

We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, respectful, and safe work environment where all persons are treated fairly, with dignity and respect. We are a Disability Confident Employer and particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities. We guarantee interviews to applicants with disabilities who meet the essential criteria for the role (see person specification). If you require the candidate brief or need to submit your application in an alternative format, because of a disability, please do get in touch by sending an email to the HR Team.

We also encourage people from minoritised communities to apply for roles at CARE International UK.

Please note that in compliance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006, all job offers at Care International UK are conditional on eligibility to work in the UK.

CARE’s EDI Vision Statement

We are guided by the communities we serve and grounded by our values which are: women-centred, inclusive, collaborative and quality. We share power responsibly and transparently, we earn trust and are accountable to each other, and we create supportive spaces for collaboration so that everyone is empowered to share ideas. Equity, diversity and inclusion are embedded in all we do - creating ways for everyone to be heard, respected and to thrive.

The Role
Policy Development Lead
We are looking for a Policy Development Lead to provide strategic leadership, coordination and expertise in proactive policy development across NDCS. This exciting new role will help us think beyond immediate policy activity, identify where system change is needed, and develop longer-term policy positions that are informed by evidence, specialist insight, lived experience and external practice.
The role will initially focus on Education, while retaining the flexibility to support wider policy development across areas such as early years, social care, health, benefits, sign language and other emerging priorities. Working closely with Platform Leads, Policy and Nation Leads, and colleagues across the organisation, you will help ensure NDCS develops strong, evidence-based policy positions that create meaningful change for deaf children and their families.
What you'll do

• Lead and coordinate proactive policy development activity across NDCS, identifying opportunities for deeper policy thinking and systems change.
• Apply systems thinking to identify complex challenges, explore interdependencies and develop practical solutions
• Identify emerging trends, risks and opportunities, using systems thinking and horizon-scanning approaches to inform future organisational priorities.
• Translate complex evidence, research and lived experience into clear recommendations that support organisational decision-making and influence.
• Influence senior leaders and key stakeholders by providing strategic policy advice, insight and recommendations.
• Lead and coordinate policy development activity across multiple teams, ensuring expertise, insight and activity are aligned.
• Build productive relationships with external researchers, policy networks and sector experts to bring innovative thinking into NDCS.
• Identify cross-cutting themes and opportunities for change by bringing together insight from local, regional and national sources.
• Facilitate strategic conversations that help colleagues explore complex issues, understand system interdependencies and develop long-term solutions.
• Champion a proactive, evidence-informed approach to policy development across the organisation.

What you'll need

• Significant experience in policy analysis, development or strategy within a complex organisation, sector or policy environment.
• Proven ability to translate complex evidence, research and lived experience into recommendations that drive organisational action and influence.
• Experience influencing senior decision-makers and shaping organisational, sector-wide or public policy direction.
• A track record of leading and coordinating complex work across multiple teams, functions or stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to produce high-quality briefings, policy positions and strategic recommendations.
• Experience bringing together evidence and insight from multiple sources to identify emerging issues, trends and opportunities for change.
• Strong systems-thinking skills and experience developing long-term solutions to complex challenges.
• The ability to lead through collaboration, credibility and specialist expertise, building alignment across diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of the policy, practice and systemic issues affecting deaf children and families, and the ability to apply this knowledge to strategic policy development.
• Strong digital skills and a sound understanding of agile values & principles.
• Acriminal record check / DBS disclosure (if offered the position).

What you'll get

• Home-based working with flexible hours.
• 25 days holiday - plus an additional 3 days at Christmas (& bank holidays).
• Pension (5.5% employer contribution).
• Healthcare Cashplan.
• Annual performance-based salary increase.
• Employee Assistance & Wellbeing Programmes.

What we do
The National Deaf Children's Society are the leading charity for deaf children. We give expert support on childhood deafness, raise awareness and campaign for deaf children's rights, so they have the same opportunities as everyone else.

Pre-employment checks
As part of our commitment to creating a safe and trusted environment for the children, young people and families we support, all offers of employment are subject to background checks. These include Right to Work verification, Criminal Record Disclosure, and ID and address verification.

To complete an online Right to Work check, you will need a valid UK or Irish passport, or a government share code if you are not a British citizen. If an online check is not possible, we’ll need to verify your documents in person at our London office. Please be aware that travel time and expenses for this appointment cannot be reimbursed.

Disability Confidence
We are a Disability Confident Employer and committed to offering interviews to candidates who request to be considered under the disability confident scheme and meet the minimum requirements for the role.

The National Deaf Children’s Society is a registered charity in England and Wales no. 1016532 and in Scotland no. SC040779.