Senior trusts and foundations manager jobs
Research Funding Officer (Operations)
18-month Fixed-Term Contract
Salary: £28,000 - £30,000 per annum, plus benefits
London N1
Full time – 37.5 hours a week
We're a hybrid working employer, meaning you're required to come into the office at least 2 days per week currently Tuesday, and Wednesday or Thursday.
Closing date: 17:00, 15th April 2026
Interviews (in-person): w/c 27th April 2026
Second interviews: w/c 4th May 2026
Preventing cancer, saving lives
Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to contribute to international research funding programmes and gain insight into how cancer prevention research is supported and delivered?
We are seeking a Research Funding Officer (Operations) to support the delivery of our research funding programmes, with a particular focus on the integration of the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) grant programme into the WCRF International portfolio. This is a fixed-term role for 18 months.
In this role, you will support the operational delivery of WCRF International’s grant programmes across both pre-award and post-award activities. You will contribute to the administration of grant calls, respond to applicant queries, process applications, support peer review and Panel meetings, and help maintain and develop our grant management system. You will also track research outputs, maintain grant records and contribute to internal reporting and analysis.
You will have a relevant scientific background (e.g. nutrition, public health, cancer biology or a related discipline), with experience working in a research or administrative environment (ideally within academia or research management).You will have a strong analytical mindset and be comfortable working with data, systems and tracking processes, and be highly organised, with excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Strong communication skills and confidence interacting with a range of stakeholders is key as is being proactive, adaptable and able to work as part of a small, collaborative team.
This role offers an excellent opportunity for someone with strong organisational and analytical skills who enjoys working with data and complex processes. The postholder will gain a unique insight into the full research funding lifecycle, supporting both the pre-award and post-award stages of international grant programmes. Working closely with experienced colleagues across the Research Funding team, the successful candidate will develop a strong understanding of how research funding programmes are designed, delivered and monitored, while applying their scientific knowledge to real-world research projects. The role provides valuable experience in grant management, research administration and data analysis, offering a strong foundation for a future career in research funding and management, the charity or policy sector, or academic research.
Application Details:
If you are interested in this role and feel you possess the necessary requirements, please submit a current CV and covering letter (maximum 2 pages) by the closing date. You must have current right to work in the UK.
Please note: Your cover letter should highlight how your skills and experience will benefit WCRF International and equip you for the role.Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are only able to provide feedback to shortlisted candidates. If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.
WCRF is a UK cancer prevention charity. We look at how diet, weight and physical activity affect the risk of developing and surviving cancer.
About Us
IIED is an international policy and research organisation working to build a fairer, more sustainable world, in partnership with others across the globe.
- We stand up: challenging the systems and structures that perpetuate economic, social and environmental injustice – acknowledging our own role in this.
- We speak out: calling out the big blockers that prevent progress for communities and working to amplify voices, redistribute power and strengthen rights.
- We innovate: developing, co-producing and supporting evidence-based ideas to drive progress towards a thriving world for all.
- We collaborate: building connections at local, national and international levels, to support diverse partners to tackle the climate, nature and inequality crises so that people and the planet can thrive. Come and be part of this exciting journey with us.
We are now looking for a Head of Fundraising & Business Development to join us on a full-time, permanent basis, working 35 hours per week.
The Benefits
- Salary of £64,814 - £80,654 per annum
- 25 days' annual leave per year, plus bank holidays and additional leave over Christmas
- 7.5% employer pension contributions
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Cycle-to-work scheme
- Employee protection scheme (life, critical illness, income protection)
This is a pivotal opportunity for a proven fundraising leader with significant experience in international NGOs or charities and a strong track record of securing income across multiple streams to join our global organisation.
You will have the chance to utilise your fundraising expertise and leadership skills to close funding gaps and unlock new opportunities, making a lasting difference to our organisational sustainability and our international impact.
What’s more, this role offers both strategic influence and meaningful flexibility, allowing you to lead, develop others and grow long-term funding success, helping us to build a fairer, more sustainable world.
So, if you’re ready to lead ambitious fundraising that powers global change, read on and apply today.
The Role
As our Head of Fundraising & Business Development, you will lead efforts to secure and diversify funding, building a sustainable resource base to support our global mission.
Leading the Fundraising and Business Development Team, you will drive the implementation of our resource mobilisation strategy, focusing on increasing non-ODA income and expanding flexible and programmatic funding.
Working closely with colleagues across fundraising, finance, research and impact teams, you will help close funding gaps by developing strong donor relationships, negotiating funding agreements and shaping compelling funding propositions.
Alongside collaborating with the Director of Fundraising and Communications and supporting engagement with the Board of Trustees, you will manage systems, data and internal processes that strengthen fundraising performance and ensure effective delivery.
Additionally, you will:
- Gather and share intelligence on trends within the funding landscape
- Generate new fundraising ideas and opportunities with existing and new funders
- Support teams to develop fundraising plans, donor scoping and funding bids
- Analyse data to inform fundraising strategies and income generation
- Design and manage internal fundraising support processes and systems
- Oversee the team budget and support staff development and wellbeing
About You
To be considered as our Head of Fundraising & Business Development, you will need:
- Significant experience leading fundraising functions in an international NGO or charity
- A proven, impressive track record in fundraising
- Experience in partnership and consortium development
- Management experience with the ability to co-ordinate, support, motivate, energise and develop diverse teams
- The ability to design and deliver income-generation strategies across multiple streams
- A strong understanding of the evolving landscape of finance and resource mobilisation for sustainable development
- A strong understanding of policy and research related to sustainable development at an international level, particularly related to Africa, Asia and/or Latin America
- Strong influencing, negotiating, stakeholder engagement and diplomacy skills
- A degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent work experience
- The willingness and ability to travel internationally
This role requires a Basic DBS check.
IIED is a hybrid working organisation, and you are likely to be working from home most of the time. As such, you will need a suitable place to work and a reliable, fast internet connection.
The closing date for this role is 5th April 2026.
Other organisations may call this role Head of Fundraising, Head of Income Generation, Head of Partnerships and Fundraising, Head of Strategic Partnerships, Business Development Director, Head of Philanthropy and Partnerships, or Head of Grants and Partnerships.
IIED is a Global organisation that serves the Global Majority. We are committed to equity of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in IIED’s workforce, including members of minority groups and those with lived experience of the work we do. Even if you don't satisfy all the criteria, we still encourage you to apply, as we will offer training and development to upskill the right candidate for the role.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Purpose and responsibilities of the post
Reporting to the DARE UK Director, the Deputy Director is a senior strategic leader responsible for shaping and delivering the programme’s next phase of impact.
The post-holder will provide intellectual and operational leadership across the programme, translating strategic ambition into executable plans while ensuring delivery at pace and scale. They will work across research communities, funders, infrastructure providers, technology partners and senior stakeholders across UKRI and government to embed community voice into the design of a UK-wide secure data research ecosystem.
This is a high-profile role requiring visible sector leadership, strong partnership-building capability and confidence operating at Board and executive level. The Deputy Director will deputise for the Director as required and play a central role in positioning DARE UK nationally and internationally.
Main Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
· Co-develop and evolve the DARE UK strategy, roadmap and future phases in response to emerging opportunities, policy developments and sector needs.
· Shape the long-term vision for a federated UK sensitive data research ecosystem, including shared standards for governance, ethics, metadata and interoperability.
· Identify strategic partnerships and funding opportunities to secure programme sustainability beyond the current phase.
· Represent DARE UK at senior forums, influencing policy, research and infrastructure agendas.
Programme Delivery and Oversight
· Lead end-to-end delivery of the programme, ensuring alignment between strategic objectives, commissioned work and measurable outcomes.
· Oversee commissioning, governance and performance management of programme activities and working groups.
· Ensure robust financial oversight, risk management and reporting in collaboration with HDR UK and UKRI partners.
· Maintain effective systems, governance structures and delivery frameworks across partner organisations.
Stakeholder and Community Leadership
· Build and sustain trusted relationships across UKRI councils, academia, government departments, devolved administrations, technical suppliers and public contributors.
· Convene and align diverse stakeholders to co-design standards, services and technical-social specifications.
· Lead strategic engagement and communications activity to secure sector-wide buy-in and adoption.
People and Organisational Leadership
· Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team spanning programme management, communications, public involvement and engagement, and community engagement.
· Foster a high-performance, collaborative culture aligned with HDR UK values.
· Provide clarity, direction and stability in a complex and evolving landscape.
Knowledge, skills and experience
Essential
· Senior leadership experience in complex, multi-stakeholder environments spanning research, government, infrastructure and/or technology.
· Proven track record of delivering large-scale, strategically significant programmes in fast-paced and ambiguous contexts.
· Experience working with executive teams, Boards and senior stakeholders, demonstrating sound judgement and political awareness.
· Strong strategic thinking capability, with the ability to translate vision into structured delivery plans.
· Demonstrable experience influencing, negotiating and building consensus across diverse communities.
· Strong programme governance, risk management and financial oversight experience.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to represent programmes at national level.
· Effective line management experience, leading multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-impact outcomes.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Z2K has a clear 2025–2030 strategy and a strong reputation for principled, evidence‑led campaigning rooted in frontline experience. The external environment is volatile: rising poverty, political contestation around welfare and housing, and tightening funding conditions.
After a long‑standing Chief Executive stepped down in late 2025, the organisation has been led by an Interim Chief Executive. The permanent appointment is therefore a moment of consolidation and renewal. The next Chief Executive will provide long‑term stability, sharpen strategic focus and define the organisation’s next phase.
Z2K faces structural pressures common to many charities of this scale: rising costs, reliance on grant funding, growing demand and increasing scrutiny. The Chief Executive must do two things at once:
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Increase measurable impact of our advice services and advocacy work on inadequate incomes and high costs.
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Build a financially resilient, well‑run organisation capable of sustaining that impact.
This is not a figurehead role. It requires leadership with grip, political judgement and commercial realism.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to guide us through an exciting period of growth, transformation and renewed strategic ambition.
At Little Valley, our purpose is clear: to promote kindness, prevent cruelty, and provide outstanding welfare for the animals who rely on us. Our next Chief Executive Officer will inspire staff and volunteers, strengthen community partnerships, and lead with clarity, compassion and courage.
About the role
Our team is united by our compassion, collaboration, integrity, excellence and deep connection to our community - values that guide every decision we make. We are looking for a Chief Executive Officer who will champion these values in everything they do.
We are in a pivotal moment of investment and cultural renewal, with major developments underway - including improved facilities, modernisation of systems, strategic income growth and strengthened community engagement. This is your opportunity to lead an ambitious and much‑loved charity into its next chapter.
Key Responsibilities
(Full Job Description and Person Specification attached.)
- Lead the organisation’s strategic direction, ensuring alignment with our mission, values and long‑term goals.
- Drive high‑quality, compassionate animal welfare services across all operational areas.
- Provide visible, empathetic leadership that supports a positive culture for staff and volunteers.
- Ensure strong financial stewardship, diversifying income and securing long‑term sustainability.
- Strengthen partnerships, community profile and external relationships across the region.
- Champion innovation, operational excellence and continuous improvement at every level.
About You
You’ll bring proven senior leadership experience, exceptional communication skills, strong financial and governance capability, and the emotional intelligence needed to lead a complex and values‑driven organisation. Above all, you’ll bring a genuine passion for animal welfare and a commitment to ensuring values remain at the heart of everything we do.
Why join us?
As our Chief Executive Officer, you will lead a dedicated team, steward an organisation with strong foundations, and be at the forefront of shaping a more compassionate future for animals across Devon. This is more than a leadership role - it’s a chance to create lasting impact.
How to apply
Please submit your CV and a supporting statement (maximum two pages) outlining how your experience, leadership and values make you the right person to become our next Chief Executive Officer.
Application deadline: Tuesday 7 April, 5pm
We encourage applications from leaders who are motivated by purpose, committed to impact and inspired by the opportunity to shape the future of Little Valley Animal Shelter.
#Chief Executive Officer #Chief Executive #CEO #Chief Executive Officer
Our mission is to offer compassionate care and facilitate the rehabilitation and rehoming of animals across Devon.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a dynamic and highly motivated individual with excellent communication skills who will be a first point of contact with our membership network.
You will proactively increase member engagement whilst nurturing existing relationships and demonstrating commitment to promoting the value of helplines.
This role is supporting the Partnership and Engagement manager to deliver a sustainable membership and partnership model that keeps pace in a constantly moving and diverse climate.
You will be central in supporting HLP’s sustainability and will help to progress continued growth and attract new and diverse collaborations.
You will ideally have experience of working within a fast-paced and proactive team. You will enjoy engaging with a wide range of diverse stakeholders.
The role is predominantly home-based with regular travel to meetings and events.
We offer attractive staff benefits including 25 days’ annual leave rising with length of service, a company pension scheme, free life assurance and an employee assistance programme. HLP is committed to equality of opportunity.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you looking for your very first job? Want to build skills, grow your confidence, and get paid while you learn? We’re offering a brilliant opportunity for someone at the very beginning of their career to join our Finance Team. This is a hands-on, paid apprenticeship where you’ll rotate across the whole of our functions: statutory reporting, management accounts, suppliers and payments, invoicing and debtors and supporting the month and year end processes.
This role is designed for someone with little to no previous work experience, you must be at least 18 years of age, maybe you’ve just finished college, or taken part in a King’s Trust programme. You’ll get full training, learn how a national charity supports its people, and build real-world experience that could lead to a future career in, accounting, finance, administration or beyond.
This is a full-time post (5 days a week), you will be studying for one day a week towards the Level 2 AAT Certificate in Accounting qualification and will need GCSE English and Maths (Level 4 or A-C grade) or equivalent.
We’re looking for someone reliable, happy to learn our IT systems, a confident communicator and most importantly, has a good eye for detail. There will be an assessment day at our Birmingham Centre on Tuesday 7th April and final interviews within two weeks of the assessment day.
We will be looking for the candidate to start in September 2026. Initially this will be 18-month fixed term contract with a view to a permanent position and progression to Level 3 dependent on the needs of the Trust. Candidates who already hold an equivalent or higher qualification in Accounting are not eligible for this role.
If you're ready to start your career journey in a supportive and inclusive team, we’d love to hear from you.
We believe that every young person should have the chance to succeed, no matter their background or the challenges they are facing.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Purpose
Reporting directly to the CEO, you will lead and shape all aspects of the Foundation’s communications and brand strategy.
This is a pivotal leadership role within the organisation. You will act as strategic adviser on reputation, messaging and positioning, ensuring that the Foundation’s voice reflects both the urgency of the fight against MND and the powerful legacy of Doddie Weir.
You will steward one of Scotland’s most recognised charitable brands, protecting and evolving our public profile as we continue to invest in research, influence policy and support those living with MND.
About My Name’5 Doddie Foundation
Founded in 2017 following Doddie Weir’s diagnosis with motor neurone disease, the Foundation exists to fund research, raise awareness and support those affected by MND.
Since inception, we have committed over £19.5 million to research and a further £2 million in grants to individuals living with MND. We have helped catalyse national campaigns, foster research collaborationand build a movement united by one shared ambition: a World Free of MND.
We are at an exciting stage in our journey - growing in influence, impact and profile - and communications sits at the heart of that growth.
Key Responsibilities
You will lead the Communications function, working collaboratively across Fundraising, Research and Finance, and will be responsible for:
Strategic Leadership
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Develop and deliver a clear, integrated communications and brand strategy aligned to organisational goals.
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Act as trusted adviser to the CEO on messaging, reputation and stakeholder positioning.
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Ensure communications activity supports fundraising growth, research impact and policy engagement.
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Provide regular insight and impact reporting to the CEO and Board.
Brand & Reputation Management
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Protect and evolve the Foundation’s brand, ensuring clarity, consistency and emotional resonance.
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Develop internal brand guidance and champion high standards of communication across the organisation.
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Oversee crisis communications planning and reputation risk mitigation.
Media & External Engagement
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Lead strategic media engagement, working closely with external PR support.
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Build and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts and stakeholders.
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Translate complex research and policy information into accessible, compelling narratives.
Digital & Campaign Delivery
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Oversee digital communications strategy including website, social media and supporter communications.
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Ensure campaigns are creatively strong, audience-led and impact-driven.
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Analyse performance data (including Google Analytics and other KPIs) to inform continuous improvement.
Team & Supplier Leadership
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Lead and develop the Communications team, maximising contribution and performance.
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Manage agency and contractor relationships where required.
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Foster a collaborative and high-performing culture across functions.
Skills and Experience
Essential
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Significant experience developing and delivering strategic communications plans.
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Strong media relations and reputation management expertise.
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Experience leading teams and managing external agencies.
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Strong organisational and project management capability.
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Confidence operating at senior leadership level and advising executive stakeholders.
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Ability to analyse performance metrics and demonstrate impact.
Desirable
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Experience in the charity, campaigning or advocacy sector.
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Understanding of research communications.
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Experience of working in a high-profile or emotionally resonant brand environment.
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Digital content creation experience (video, graphic or website development).
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Experience of campaign or product management.
Personal Attributes
We are looking for someone who brings:
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Strategic judgement and credibility.
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Emotional intelligence and integrity.
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A strong appreciation for mission-led work.
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The confidence to operate independently while building strong collaborative relationships.
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A genuine commitment to the Foundation’s purpose and values.
Why Join Us?
This is more than a communications role.
It is an opportunity to help shape the voice of a movement, to steward a powerful legacy, and to contribute meaningfully to the fight against MND.
You will work directly with senior leadership, influence national conversations, and help ensure that Doddie’s vision continues to drive progress towards a World Free of MND.
We are My Name'5 Doddie Foundation and we're absolutely committed to our goal: A World Free of MND



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Harris Hill is delighted to be supporting the recruitment of a Head of International Programmes for a respected international Catholic charity supporting seafarers, fishers and their families worldwide. The organisation operates an extensive global network spanning more than 50 countries and hundreds of ports, delivering vital practical, pastoral and welfare support to those working at sea.
Reporting to the CEO, the postholder will lead the development and delivery of the organisation’s international strategy, strengthening partnerships across the global network and identifying opportunities to expand programmes. You will build and maintain strong relationships with international partners, develop a pipeline of high-impact projects, and secure funding from corporates, trusts and foundations. The role will oversee programme delivery, grant management and reporting, ensuring compliance and impact, while also contributing to business planning, budgeting and organisational leadership. You will represent the organisation externally, both in the UK and internationally, and play a key role in enhancing its reputation and influence across the sector. You will also play a key role in strengthening organisational capability across the global network, supporting training initiatives and capacity building for international colleagues. Acting as a senior adviser on international affairs, you will provide insight to the CEO and contribute to informed decision-making at leadership and board level.
We are looking for a confident and strategic leader with significant experience in international programme management within a development or humanitarian context. You will bring a strong track record in grant fundraising and stakeholder engagement, alongside experience of leading teams and delivering organisational strategy. The successful candidate will be highly organised, commercially aware, and able to translate complex ideas into compelling cases for support. Strong communication skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to work collaboratively across diverse global contexts are essential, as is a proactive and resilient approach.
Please note that to be considered for this role, candidates must have prior experience within the charity sector, alongside a background in international programmes. Unfortunately, applications that do not meet both of these essential criteria will not be progressed. Only successful applicants will be contacted with further information.
To apply, please submit your up-to-date CV by 23:59 on 19 April.
As a leading charity recruitment specialist and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.
We are looking for someone who sees communications and development as a strategic act — someone who understands that brand, partnership, advocacy and fundraising are interwoven. Someone who is excited by the possibility of building a mixed economy that supports artistic risk, sector innovation and long-term civic contribution.
We would like to hear from candidates with significant senior experience in communications, marketing and brand guardianship, ideally in the arts or creative industries; experience of driving engaging storytelling with creative flair and strategic purpose; and a proven track record of stakeholder engagement and external relations within a charity, cultural or non-profit organisation, developing and implementing strategies that grow visibility, engagement and income.
You’ll also bring experience of working at a senior leadership level, leading teams in the delivery of high quality, impactful campaigns – along with excellent interpersonal and communication skills; a proven ability to successfully build and maintain stakeholder relationships; a positive, proactive, and solution-focused approach; and a genuine interest in the arts and culture.
Location is either Birmingham or Nottingham (subject to base of postholder)
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Social Finance is an ambitious non-profit that designs, funds and scales solutions to complex social problems. Our vision is a fairer world where together we unleash the potential of people and communities. We work with governments, funders, communities and the social sector to tackle some of the most persistent challenges facing society in the UK.
Our multidisciplinary team brings together experience from the public, private and charity sectors. We are known for our collaborative and intellectually curious culture and for delivering systems change, improving how entire systems operate so they produce better, lasting outcomes.
One of our most significant initiatives is IPS Grow, which supports the national expansion of Individual Placement and Support (IPS) employment services across England. IPS is an evidence-based approach that helps people experiencing severe mental illness, addiction and other health challenges find and sustain competitive employment with tailored support.
IPS Grow works with commissioners, healthcare providers and delivery partners to expand high-quality IPS services, improve quality and learning across the system, and ensure the data and evidence behind IPS continue to demonstrate its impact. Scaling IPS has been a priority for Social Finance since 2015 and continues to be an integral part of our work today.
With IPS Grow transitioning from a fast‑growing initiative to a mature organisation with expanding reach and influence, we are now looking for an experienced Chief Operating Officer to join the IPS Grow and Social Finance Senior Leadership Team.
The COO will provide strategic leadership across IPS Grow’s operational infrastructure, ensuring the organisation has the systems, processes and capabilities required to deliver impact at scale. You will strengthen financial oversight, resource planning and risk management while helping develop IPS Grow’s data and digital capability. The role will also help shape the organisational structures and culture needed to support sustainable growth.
We are looking for a senior operational leader with experience in finance and the non-profit or publicly funded sectors, ideally with a track record of helping organisations scale. You will bring strong financial literacy, sound strategic judgement and the ability to build effective operational frameworks in complex environments.
You will be a collaborative partner across IPS Grow and the wider Social Finance organisation, building trusted relationships, bringing clarity to operational challenges and fostering a strong “one team” culture across a distributed team.
This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the next phase of IPS Grow’s development. If this resonates with you, we would be delighted to hear from you.
To download a full copy of the candidate brief and learn more about the role, please click the ‘Apply’ button, where you will be redirected to the website of our recruitment partner, Tall Roots.
Applications should include a CV and covering letter responding to the following questions:
- What is motivating you to become our new Chief Operating Officer for IPS Grow? (200 words)
- Given what you have read about us so far, what do you believe would make an effective Chief Operating Officer for IPS Grow? (200 words)
- Please describe your experience ensuring an organisation had the right systems, processes or capabilities in place to use data effectively. What was your role and what difference did this make? (250 words)
- Please tell us about a time when you built strong partnerships across teams or organisations to deliver a shared goal. What approach did you take and what was the outcome? (250 words)
Martingale Postgraduate Foundation (Martingale) exists to fund and support the next generation of talented researchers. We believe that family income should not be a barrier to the pursuit of excellence, and our mission is to enable and nurture talented individuals from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to thrive within world-leading postgraduate research.
Martingale’s flagship programme is the Martingale Postgraduate Scholarship, which supports students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to pursue and excel in postgraduate degrees, by providing:
- A fully-funded Living Wage Scholarship to pursue a one-year Masters degree or a four-year PhD.
- All tuition fees and research expenses, including a tax-free stipend for living costs.
- Tailored support to apply for Martingale courses at our partner universities.
- Access to Martingale programmes, including leadership training and connections with top academic and industry professionals.
- Membership of a pioneering community of talented researchers.
In the three years since Martingale launched, we are now supporting over 100 Scholars to undertake postgraduate degrees across our ten partner universities and have committed over £7.7m in Scholarships. We are continuing to expand our offer, bringing on new partners each year.
We are seeking an experienced, strategic and collaborative Head of Programmes to join our Senior Leadership Team and play a pivotal role in shaping our fast-growing Martingale Scholarship Programme.
As Head of Programmes, you will join our senior management team, overseeing the growing programmes team. Working closely with the CEO, you will oversee all aspects of Martingale’s Scholarship Programme from application to alumni, ensuring that the programme maintains a strong reputation for being both supportive and prestigious.
You will set the strategic direction of Martingale’s Scholarship Programme, working closely with the CEO on a day-to-day basis to ensure that as we expand across STEM the programme remains of a high quality and meeting Martingale’s mission. You will ensure that Martingale’s programmes are impactful, data informed and meet the needs of the scholars we are supporting. You will also be responsible for managing relationships with various external stakeholders including universities, funders and evaluation partners.
We are looking for a strong strategic leader with extensive programme experience including line management, partnership management and external relations. You will bring excellent organisational skills, strong attention to detail, a proactive mindset, and a strong alignment with Martingale’s mission. We welcome applicants from a range of career paths who are excited to be part of a growing, fast-paced charity delivering meaningful impact.
Martingale Foundation is incubated by Purposeful Ventures who provide operational and strategic support. The Head of Programmes will be employed by Purposeful Ventures.
About Purposeful Ventures
Our vision is for a fairer society where all young people thrive. We work with social entrepreneurs, organisations and philanthropists that share our vision. Through our work with these partners, young people are given opportunities in education and beyond, helping them reach their true potential.
Purposeful Ventures offers philanthropists and funders bespoke advice, using an evidence-based approach to help them to identify high-impact opportunities to fund. We then partner with visionary individuals and mission-driven organisations with strong theories of change. We help them turn great ideas into sustainable and successful ventures by offering fully individualised and very hands-on support, access to funding and a ‘high-challenge, high-support’ home. We do the minimum necessary and whatever it takes to succeed.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership of the Scholarship Programme
- Provide strategic oversight of the end-to-end Martingale Scholarship lifecycle, from selection and admissions through to scholar progression and alumni outcomes.
- Develop and deliver a multi-year operational strategy for Martingale’s Development Programme (MDP), ensuring scalability, academic excellence, and alignment with organisational growth plans.
- Continuously refine the scholar journey to ensure it is sector-leading, prestigious, and tailored to the needs of students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Build deep expertise in postgraduate education, research culture, and enabling access to inform programme evolution and innovation.
Admissions & Selection Strategy
- Lead the design, governance, and continuous improvement of a rigorous, fair, and high-quality admissions and assessment process across subject areas.
- Oversee shortlisting, interview frameworks, assessment centres, and final scholarship recommendations to the Selection Committee.
- Ensure alignment between Martingale’s selection processes and university partner requirements.
- Maintain oversight of scholar allocation, including place management, deferrals, intermissions, withdrawals, and reallocations.
Scholar Experience & Case Management
- Ensure effective advocacy for Scholars including maximising progression and retention across cohorts.
- Oversee complex scholar casework, including deferrals, intermissions, safeguarding concerns, funding queries, disciplinary action and university liaison.
- Ensure consistent, professional, and high-touch support across the scholar lifecycle.
- Strengthen cohort cohesion and long-term alumni engagement.
Safeguarding & Compliance
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for Martingale, ensuring safeguarding policy implementation and record keeping in line with best practice in relation to vulnerable adults.
- Oversee data protection compliance relating to scholar and applicant data, in partnership with the organisation’s Data Protection Officer.
- Ensure programme delivery complies with charity, funding, and regulatory requirements.
Budget, Contracting & Financial Oversight
- Hold responsibility for programme budgets, ensuring effective resource allocation, cost control, and value for money.
- Oversee scholarship programme financial management, and work with Head of Strategy and Operations on onwards grants including deferrals, funding adjustments, and invoicing.
- Work with the Head of Strategy and Operations on university contracting, scholarship agreements, and financial reconciliation with partners.
- Ensure timely and accurate invoicing and reporting processes across programme operations.
University & Sector Partnerships (Programme-Focused)
- Lead programme-level relationships with university partners, including Heads of Departments, Graduate Tutors, CDT leads, and admissions teams.
- Ensure universities meet partnership commitments and that Scholars are appropriately supported institutionally.
- Contribute to partnership negotiations where programme design or operational delivery is concerned.
- Identify opportunities to strengthen university research culture and scholar support mechanisms.
Monitoring, Evaluation & Impact
- Lead development and oversight of Martingale’s Theory of Change and evaluation framework, working with our external independent evaluators.
- Develop robust systems to track scholar progression, outcomes, and programme effectiveness.
- Provide high-quality reporting to the CEO, Board, funders, and partners, evidencing impact and continuous improvement.
New Programme Development & Innovation
- Work with the CEO to design new subject expansions, pilots, or initiatives aligned to Martingale’s mission.
- Assess operational, financial, and reputational implications of programme growth.
- Develop business cases, delivery models, and implementation plans for expansion.
Team Leadership & Culture
- Provide senior leadership to the Programmes team, including line management of programme staff.
- Build a high-performing, mission-driven team with clear accountability and ownership.
- Develop succession planning and team capability as Martingale scales.
- Model Martingale’s values of excellence, professionalism, and thoughtful support.
Organisational Leadership
- Serve as a member of the Senior Management Team, contributing to organisational strategy and governance.
- Represent Martingale externally in academic, sector, and policy contexts where appropriate.
- Support Board and Committee reporting related to programme performance and scholar outcomes.
Key Requirements:
Essential Criteria
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Right to work in the UK
Experience and skills
Essential
- Significant experience leading and delivering high-quality programmes, ideally in higher education, research, scholarships, or a mission-driven organisation.
- Strong stakeholder management experience, with evidence of working effectively with universities, academics, funders, or equivalent partners.
- Proven line management experience, with the ability to develop and lead a high-performing team.
- Experience managing complex operational delivery, including planning, timelines, and coordinating multiple moving parts.
- Strong experience handling sensitive casework and providing professional support to individuals.
- Budget management experience, including planning and overseeing programme delivery costs.
- Excellent written communication skills, including producing clear reports and briefings for senior audiences.
- Commitment to safeguarding, wellbeing and compliance, with willingness to act as safeguarding lead.
Desirable
- Experience working directly with postgraduate research, PhD programmes, or doctoral training environments.
- Experience designing or overseeing selection and assessment processes (e.g. interviews, admissions, recruitment pipelines).
- Experience managing programme evaluation frameworks, including Theory of Change and external evaluators.
- Familiarity with contracting, invoicing, and operational finance processes.
- Knowledge of UK higher education systems and research culture.
- Experience working in a start-up, scale-up, or fast-growing charity.
Personal Characteristics
- Highly organised, proactive, and able to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent interpersonal skills: able to build rapport and trusting relationships, able to work co-operatively in a multidisciplinary setting.
- Strong judgement, discretion and professionalism, including ability to handle confidential information appropriately.
- A commitment to Martingale’s mission to support postgraduate students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Comfortable working in a rapidly growing and changing organisation with a degree of ambiguity – confident to create processes and ways forward where they might not yet exist.
- Creative and innovative: willing to think outside the box to maximise reach.
- Resourceful, able to act on initiative, hardworking, detail-oriented, and systematic.
Our mission is to enable and nurture talented individuals from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to become a new generation of STEM leaders.
Chief Executive
We are now seeking an exceptional new leader to guide City Year UK into its next phase.
Position: Chief Executive
Location: London, with regular travel to Birmingham, Manchester and other UK locations as required
Hours: Full-time
Salary: £80-90k dependent on experience
Duration: Permanent
Closing Date: 10.00am on Monday 23th March 2026.
Interviews: March 2026.
Who we are
For over 15 years, City Year UK has stood alongside children and young people across the UK, helping them to discover their potential and believe in what they can achieve. As a leading youth and education charity, we inspire and empower young people to dedicate a year of service, volunteering with us to support children in schools, reduce youth unemployment, and strengthen communities.
Our City Year mentors work in schools serving children who are often furthest from opportunity. They provide consistent and caring support that helps pupils feel valued, motivated, and capable of success. By building trusted relationships, boosting confidence, and encouraging a love of learning, our mentors make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of the children they serve.
The Role
We are now seeking an exceptional new leader to guide City Year UK into its next phase. This is an important moment for the organisation and an opportunity to shape the future of a movement that is changing lives. Building on strong foundations, the next Chief Executive will lead the organisation as we strengthen and expand our programmes, deepen our impact, and play a leading role in the development of a UK Year of Service that supports children and young people across the country.
This is a pivotal moment for the organisation. With the full support of the Board, the next Chief Executive will lead City Year UK into a focused next phase, securing financial resilience, strengthening delivery, and ensuring sustainable long term impact.
Main responsibilities include:
- Fundraising and Development
- Strategy and Leadership
- Governance
- External Engagement
- Programme Delivery
- Finance and People
About You
We are looking for an inspiring leader who is passionate about unlocking the potential of young people, championing educational equality, and driving lasting change. You’ll bring a strong track record of strategic leadership and fundraising in the charity sector, along with the vision and energy to lead City Year UK into an ambitious new chapter. Skilled at building powerful partnerships, navigating complex stakeholder environments, and championing an inclusive, purpose-driven culture, you’ll also be a dynamic fundraiser, ready to support the growth and diversification of our income so we can expand our impact even further.
Experience, Knowledge and Skills:
- A proven track record of senior leadership and management at a Chief Executive or Director level, likely in the charity or mission-driven sector
- Experience leading a complex organisation, with strong financial oversight, including managing a budget of comparable scale
- Demonstrated success in securing £1.5m+ a year of funding aligned with programme delivery; strong understanding of the connection between mission and sustainability
- Excellent leadership, management and team-building skills with a collaborative working style
- Strong political and organisational awareness, with the ability to navigate diverse stakeholder environments
- Exceptional relationship-building skills and experience working with senior stakeholders across sectors
- Outstanding communication skills—written, verbal, listening, and presenting
Please apply by uploading your CV and a supporting statement responding to the two questions set out in the Recruitment Pack. Your statement should clearly demonstrate your relevant experience, leadership capability and track record in relation to this role. Due to the high volume of CVs received, we can only respond back to the successful candidates.
Employee Benefits
- Annual leave: 25 days per annum, rising to 28 days, plus 3 Christmas Grace days
- A matched pension scheme with 4% standard employer contributions and matched up to 5%.
- An organisational culture that values its employees and places particular emphasis on fairness and transparency.
- Sector-leading training, with qualifications up to master's degree level funded under the apprenticeship levy.
- 2 Volunteering days per year - pursue a project you’re passionate about
- 2 Wellbeing days per year
- A comprehensive wellbeing service designed to support the overall wellness of employees
- Interest-free travel season ticket loans, bike loans under the “Cycle to Work Scheme” and loans to assist employees with welfare or financial hardship
- Enhanced sick pay for up to 6 weeks
Other areas of experience may include CEO, COO, Chief Exec, Chief Executive, Director, Managing Director, HR, Finance, Operations.
Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.
Partnerships Officer (Programme Officer)
Aga Khan Foundation
The position
AKF(UK) Partnerships Officers are part of the Global Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) Partnerships team tasked with identifying funding partnerships and strengthening existing ones to support our strategic goals. Partnerships Officers manage a set of grants across a variety of themes and geographies. They also support engagement with European and Asian bilaterals, multilaterals and foundations to secure funding for ten multi-sector not-for-profit and for-profit agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) operating across Asia and Africa. This is all done in close collaboration with field units, global teams, and our partners.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND CORE TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
Grants Management
- Manage a portfolio of grants through regular interface and coordination with AKF(UK)’s partnerships team, AKF(UK)’s programme finance team and relevant AKF/AKDN field units/agencies acting as a central resource for field units in donor best practice.
- Interface with donors about the implementation of ongoing grants to ensure strong, enduring relationships.
- Coordinate, review, and assure the quality of donor deliverables (e.g. work plans, monitoring and evaluation plans, staffing plans, budgets, close-out plans, donor troubleshooting).
- Ensure adherence with donor requirements, rules, and regulations, and that grant deliverables are produced on time and to a high standard.
- Coordinate contractual amendments, changes, and project adaptations, engage with donors in a pro-active and diplomatic way, and flag potential changes (e.g. budget revisions, extensions, risks) in advance to ‘trouble shoot’ and ensure smooth project implementation.
- Facilitate grant monitoring efforts including routine coordination meetings and as needed, support with donor steering committees, donor project visits, and donor monitoring missions.
- Undertake coordination and administrative tasks related to grants and support the maintenance and update of grant management tools and tracking systems (e.g. Award Information Management System (AIMS)).
- Ensure strong relationship cultivation throughout the grants cycle, anticipate, and plan for future funding and project extensions.
Resource Mobilisation
- Coordinate and facilitate the development, review and quality assurance of expressions of interest, concept notes, and full proposals for funding opportunities.
- Liaise and coordinate with internal stakeholders as well as with donors, partners, and consortia to facilitate project design, align proposal and donor requirements, gather required legal and administrative documentation, and draft sections of proposals as needed.
Coordinate processes of contracting and negotiation, engaging relevant stakeholders, and ensuring contracts ‘get over the line’ in a timely and efficient way.
- Conduct due diligence of new partners (donors, NGOs, universities, etc.) in coordination with AKF(UK)’s programme finance team and AKF’s global programmes team.
- Develop and contribute to positioning pieces and communication materials (e.g., presentations, narrative overviews) to enable regular and effective engagement with donors.
- Research, scan and source relevant information regarding new donors and funding opportunities to identify potential funding matches and gather intelligence around European and Asian donors.
- Update donor profiles, researching and summarising latest donor strategies and using AIMS to update AKF/AKDN funding summaries.
- Contribute to management systems, such as AIMS.
Carry out any other duties as assigned by the Senior Partnerships Manager, Deputy Regional Directors or Global Deputy Director for Institutional Partnerships.
The requirements
QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, BEHAVIOURS, ATTRIBUTES
Qualifications
- Undergraduate degree essential
- Master’s degree in a relevant field preferred
Skills
- Strong level of fluency in French is highly desirable
- Creativity, critical thinking, and project management
- Entrepreneurial, pro-active self-starter with maturity and emotional intelligence
- Ability to problem-solve, work independently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with numerous and competing deadlines
- Ability to handle complex relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders in a professional manner
- Excellent writing, speaking and other communications skills, with thoroughness and attention to detail
- Ability to provide stable, consistent, reliable and courteous communication when dealing with external organisations, senior colleagues and community members
- Strong financial literacy, including the ability to read and produce detailed budgets and business plans
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office 365 and Salesforce
- French language skills desirable, but not essential
- Proficiency in French language desirable
Knowledge
- Understanding and knowledge of the UK/European and Asian donor landscape preferred
- Knowledge of and commitment to international development
Experience
- A minimum of 3 years of professional experience
- Experience in developing and writing proposals, developing budgets, business plans/cases, concept papers, briefs, executive summaries, as well as coordinating multiple inputs from a variety of sources
- Experience of managing relationships in complex organisations with numerous stakeholders
- Experience managing grants in complex organisations desirable
Attributes
- Committed to international development, improving the quality of life, and promoting pluralism through civil society.
- Demonstrates equity, transparency, and integrity with high personal and organisational ethical standards; is fair, honest, and trustworthy with respect for confidentiality; inspires and builds trust and respect from others; promotes credibility and professional reputation.
Behaviours
- Communicates clearly and concisely with a broad range of audiences at different levels; ability to expresses complex ideas and concepts in simple terms; listens to the views of others; changes communication styles to meet individual and audience needs; encourages dialogue and effective communication by others.
- Builds, maintains, and deepens constructive and effective relationships with stakeholders with a specific focus on AKF’s mission; balances business situations and the art of dealing with people and communities; changes approach to achieve desired results if required.
- Has a customer focused orientation to others, is flexible and always puts the good of others at the centre of decision making; optimises respect for others and is dedicated to AKF’s purpose and fulfilling the mission.
- Acknowledges creativity, has the desire to understand and use new innovations (including technology); adapts established methods for new uses; is focused on improving systems and processes; open to change; analyses, synthesises and challenges conventional thinking; supports the development of communities of practice.
FURTHER DETAILS
- The role will involve travel to countries where we operate programmes, and where the candidate is supporting grants management.
- As well as a rewarding role with a global international development organisation, you’ll get access to a wide range of enhanced benefits including but not limited to flexible hybrid working, enhanced leave entitlement and access to several health and wellbeing programmes and benefits.
- Must include CV and a supporting statement that outlines why you want the role, why you want to work for AKF(UK) and how your experiences and skills to date make you the most suitable applicant for the role.
Sector
Social Development
About the Agency
The Aga Khan Foundation is a leading global development organisation working to tackle the root causes of poverty. For more than 50 years, we have helped create strong community institutions that support sustainable, locally driven initiatives to improve the lives of millions of people. By combining local knowledge with global best practices, we strive to bring about transformative and long-lasting improvements to quality of life.
Working alongside the agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network and through partnerships with local communities, civil society and business as well as governments and international aid agencies, we are building a future where we all thrive together.
Job Expires: 25-Mar-2026
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Prospectus is delighted to be working with a Catholic maritime charity and ship-visiting network to recruit for a Head of International Programmes.
Based in their London office and remotely, the Head of International Programmes is responsible for delivering the international strategy and developing the capacity and reach of the global network. This will include developing close relationships with international partners to help them identify their needs, and deliver programmes and projects to meet them. The postholder will also lead and support the development of international grant income, cultivating and stewarding relationships with corporates, trusts, and foundations; identifying new funding opportunities; preparing high-quality proposals and reports; and ensuring compliance with donor requirements to secure sustainable resources for international programmes.
The successful candidate will have proven experience of managing programmes and projects, preferably within an international development setting. You will bring strong partnership building skills and have some fundraising experience in order to drive funding of future programmes. You will also bring excellent managerial and leadership skills, having previously managed staff and volunteers.
To apply please submit your CV only in the first instance. You may also be asked to complete a supporting statement if you do progress further in the recruitment process.
As a specialist Recruitment Practice Prospectus are committed to building inclusive and diverse organisations, and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Prospectus invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you in your application.
