Strategic development officer jobs in London, greater london

This is an exciting opportunity to lead and develop Build Studios – a small and dynamic built environment charity – and Build Workspace – the charity’s central London co-working space in Waterloo.

This role could suit an experienced sector leader looking for a leadership role, or a rising leader ready to step up.

Working closely with our dedicated Board of Directors and our small team, you will lead the development of the charity, oversee development and delivery of projects and identify new opportunities, partners and funders.

You will also oversee the smooth running of the co-working space, delivering a high quality service to members and promoting a collaborative environment for a diverse group of small and start-up practices.

The role is a part time opportunity (2 days/week) with the potential to expand. Salary £60,000 FTE (pro rated to 2 days/week - £24,000 per annum)

About us

Build Studios is a charity that works to inspire the next generation about the built environment through collaboration and learning. We have been working from our central London base in Waterloo since we were established nearly ten years ago.

We work with our community to improve awareness, access and aspiration for young people to careers in the sector. This takes place through outreach work with schools, careers enrichment and events.

Our engagement with young people takes place at a number of points in their school journey – from our ‘Healthy Homes’ programme with primary pupils, built environment careers enrichment with secondary aged students and digital design for sixth formers – inspiring them about the importance of good city design to their everyday lives. We continue this engagement into the world of work through Alternative Practice, our community of students and young workers, who come together through events and activities, to collaborate with others from across the sector.

Our workspace company, Build Workspace, provides co-working space, support services and events for start-ups and small businesses in the built environment sector.

We aim to attract entrepreneurs, creative young businesses, self-employed specialists and freelancers, providing an affordable, collaborative workspace in a central location, right next to Waterloo and the South Bank.

Profits from the co-working space are ploughed back into the charity.

About You

You will be

- Passionate about the built environment and knowledgeable about the sector

- Experienced in managing people and projects

- Experienced in managing finance and budgets

- Willing to take a hands-on and proactive role across all aspects of the running of a small organisation

- Proficient in presenting and advocating for an organisation or cause

- Able to demonstrate successful fundraising and business development experience

You may also be

- Experienced in developing projects and programmes

- Experienced in working with boards or committees

We actively encourage applications from under-represented groups.

Job Description

The role will involve the following:

Line management: managing and developing Build Studios and Build Workspace’s small staff team, with access to retained HR support agency. Leading annual appraisals and regular 1:1s.

Governance : managing the annual cadence of quarterly board meetings, AGM and associated companies house and charity commission filing, liaising closely with the boards of directors of both companies.

Business Planning: annual business planning, working with the board, staff team and other stakeholders to develop an ambitious annual plan in line with Build Studios five year strategic plan.

Budgeting and financial management: production of annual budget, working closely with the Treasurer and Chairs of Build Studios and Build Workspace; quarterly monitoring of financial performance in liaison with accountants; day to day management of project budgets and payments.

Fundraising: Leading fundraising bids with relevant grant funding bodies, developing new programmes in line with their (and Build Studios’) strategic priorities. Approaching sponsors for financial support, making a compelling case for investment.

Project management: Taking a lead role in managing projects, ensuring delivery, reporting and impact measurement are conducted in line with funder requirements and our own standards.

Communications and marketing: Supporting the team with delivering strong communications and marketing through our various channels (website, LinkedIn, Instagram, newsletters). Engaging external agency/freelance support where appropriate. Working with the operational team to deliver timely and effective communications to members in the Workspace.

Operations: Working with operations team to ensure high quality management of the workspace, having oversight of health and safety, space management systems and software and landlord liaison, and maintaining a healthy pipeline of prospective members. Ensuring appropriate operational cover is in place for the workspace during staffed hours.

Engagement: Building positive relationships with Build Studios and Build Workspace members and partners, seeking mutually beneficial opportunities to develop profile and engagement, through events and collaborations.

Other information

The contract of employment will be with Build Workspace, but the post-holder will work across both Build Studios and Build Workspace.

We would expect at least one of the two days to be worked on site at Build Studios (Waterloo, London). The remaining day can be worked flexibly at the office or from home.

Build Studios is actively seeking additional funding from grants and sponsors to grow our outreach and engagement programmes. Future successful funding bids will enable this role to be extended to more days beyond the core 2 days/week.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo a full DBS check.

The role has 25 days paid annual leave (pro rated to 10 days for 2 day/week role) plus bank holidays. Additionally 5 days’ paid sick leave (pro rated to 2 days for 2 day/week role).

How to apply

Please apply with CV and covering letter, demonstrating how you would be well suited to the role, to Helen Santer 

Closing date for applications: Friday 21st August at 5.00pm

Interviews are scheduled for 1st and 2nd September.

We will offer written feedback to all candidates shortlisted for interview.

No agencies please.

Ambition Aspire Achieve is seeking an exceptional, values-led Chief Executive to lead our much-loved children and young people’s charity into its next chapter.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a practical, relationship-based and strongly rooted Newham charity that makes a real difference to children, young people and families facing disadvantage, vulnerability, SEND, disability or risk.

Founded in 2016 by Kevin Jenkins OBE, Ambition Aspire Achieve has grown from a small number of projects at the Terence Brown Arc in the Park into a well-established charity working across Newham. Today, AAA supports nearly 1,000 children and young people each year through its hubs, with many more reached through outreach, schools-based work and community programmes.

Our work is grounded in the belief that every child and young person should be able to enjoy their childhood, overcome barriers, build confidence and develop the skills and self-belief to achieve positive futures. We deliver a broad programme of support including after-school clubs, holiday programmes, youth clubs, SEND activities, mentoring, outdoor learning, sports, family days, residentials, detached youth work, schools-based youth safety work, community events and targeted family support.

This is an exciting and important moment in AAA’s journey. Following a period of growth, the charity is now focused on consolidation, quality and long-term sustainability. We are financially stable, well regarded and deeply rooted locally, with strong relationships across funders, schools, corporate partners, local agencies and community organisations.

The next Chief Executive will provide clear, steady and values-led leadership, working closely with the Chair and Board of Trustees. They will lead and support the staff team, strengthen organisational sustainability, maintain and develop partnerships, champion safeguarding and inclusion, and ensure children and young people remain at the heart of every decision.

As AAA does not currently have a dedicated senior fundraising post, the Chief Executive will also play a central role in securing and maintaining the income needed to sustain and develop the charity’s work. This will include trusts and foundations, statutory funding, corporate partnerships, individual donors, appeals and wider supporter engagement.

We are looking for someone who can combine strategic leadership with practical operational understanding. You may already be a Chief Executive, or you may be an experienced senior leader ready to step into your first Chief Executive role. What matters most is your ability to lead with clarity, care and resilience; build trusted relationships; secure income; uphold strong governance; and keep AAA’s values at the centre of how the charity works.

AAA’s values are Committed, Caring, Collaborative and Creative. We are looking for a leader who can live these values, promote a positive and inclusive culture, and help ensure AAA remains strong, responsive and ambitious for the children, young people and families who need us most.

This is not a turnaround role, but it is a significant leadership opportunity. The successful candidate will inherit a respected and impactful charity with strong foundations, while also leading it through a more challenging external funding environment and into its next phase of development.

Join the award-winning Independent Society of Musicians
Central London – Senior Communications Officer Full time – £35k to £40k DOE

The ISM is now looking for an experienced and talented Senior Communications Officer to join our team, reporting to the Head of Sales & Marketing. This is an exciting opportunity for an outstanding writer and communications professional to help raise the profile of the ISM, promote the value of membership and engage professional musicians through high-quality content and campaigns.
You will lead on the planning, writing, editing and publication of content across a wide range of channels, including the ISM website, newsletters, publications, marketing materials and external media. You will be responsible for developing compelling and persuasive content that supports membership growth, strengthens the ISM brand and communicates the organisation's work effectively to members and the wider music sector.
You will also play a key role in managing the ISM's content strategy and SEO activity, working closely with the Website and Marketing Manager to improve content performance, increase visibility and attract new audiences through search. This will include content planning, keyword research, link-building activity and reporting on performance and engagement.
Working collaboratively across the organisation, you will identify opportunities to showcase the work of the ISM Group, including its campaigns, events, resources, legal services and thought leadership. You will also work closely with the Chief Executive on the production of Music Journal, secure profile-raising opportunities for senior representatives and support the development of speeches, presentations and briefing materials.
You will have significant experience in a communications, content, copywriting or marketing role and be able to demonstrate exceptional writing, editing and proofreading skills. You will have experience of producing engaging content for a variety of audiences and channels, alongside a strong understanding of content marketing, brand management and SEO best practice. If possible, you should have a music background. 
You will be joining a professional and committed staff team based in Bayswater, London. This is an excellent opportunity for a creative and proactive communications professional who wants to make a real impact in a leading organisation supporting musicians across the UK.

For a full job description for this role please visit our website. 

To apply please send a CV and covering letter saying why you are right the person for the job 

Closing date is Tuesday 1st September at 8.30am. First interviews will take place face-to-face on Tuesday 8th September. Applications generated by AI will not be considered.

About Us

We are an environmental charity with science at our heart. We help people to take action to protect the nature around them; by connecting them with it and giving them the tools they need to do so. We passionately believe in citizen science and are leaders in it. Our current focus areas include helping to create nature-friendly urban spaces, growing the impact of internationally known citizen science programmes such as Freshwater Watch, developing early career scientists and sharing learning internationally, and working with partners to advance the science, tools and thinking behind citizen science.

Role purpose:

To drive the growth of income from businesses, local authorities and public sector funders by identifying, developing and securing strategic partnerships. The role will build high-value relationships, generate new funding opportunities, and lead the development of compelling proposals, working closely with colleagues across Earthwatch to convert opportunities into longterm partnerships and sustainable income. This role will focus on building connections and opening doors, working closely with the Director to convert opportunities into funding to meet organisational targets.

Key deliverables:

Partnership Management and Development

• Lead on building and maintaining positive relationships with existing contacts in businesses, local authorities, and other partners in line with organisational priorities.
• Carry out excellent stewardship and management of partnerships, overseeing delivery plans, strategic activities and routine partnership activities.
• Lead all aspects of the partnership development process, including prospect research, proposal development and pitching, ensuring a seamless pathway from opportunity identification to funding secured.
• Cultivate relationships with other charitable organisations to expand Earthwatch’s network of partners and collaborate on joint environmental initiatives.

Proposal Writing and Project Development

• Lead the preparation of compelling funding proposals, tailored to meet the specific interests and priorities of potential partners.
• Ensure proposals are timely, impactful, and demonstrate clear outcomes.
• Work closely with the Finance team to develop accurate project budgets, ensuring all proposals are cost-effective and financially viable.
• Manage a portfolio of prospects and funding opportunities, contributing to agreed annual income targets. 

Sector Awareness and Marketing

• Monitor plans and strategies from businesses, local authorities and government bodies with a view to spotting opportunities for partnership working.
• Collaborate with the Communications teams to create high-quality marketing materials that support partner engagement and public relations.
• Represent Earthwatch at partner and networking events. 

Monitoring and Reporting

• Oversee the end-to-end grant management process, including timely submission of progress reports and financial narratives to ensure full compliance with donor requirements.
• Maintain a comprehensive reporting process via the CRM, providing accurate income generation updates, dashboards, and pipeline forecasts.
• Monitor environmental and sustainability issues in the media including emerging policies, trends and the performance of organisations with whom we have relationships. 

Collaboration and Team Support:

• Work closely with colleagues across the organisation, particularly the Income Generation, Programmes, Communications, and Finance teams, to ensure that funding proposals and reports are aligned with Earthwatch’s programs and objectives. 

In undertaking these roles, the postholder should also have regard to:

• Acting as an ambassador for the work, vision and values of Earthwatch Europe.
• Ensuring continuous development of skills and knowledge required for the post, undergoing training and performance review as required.
• Working within all the policies and procedures of Earthwatch Europe, ensuring compliance with health & safety policies and all legal and contractual obligations associated with the post.
• Collaborating with other Earthwatch teams to ensure effective delivery of partnership programmes.
• Carrying out any other reasonable duties commensurate with the level of responsibility of the post, as requested by the postholder’s line manager.

Please see the full job description attached.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK; Earthwatch is unable to support visa applications. 

Earthwatch is committed to making any adjustments we can for short-listed candidates, to facilitate participation in our interview process. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. 

Do you want to lead the shaping of strategy for lasting Kingdom impact?

Stewardship is entering an exciting new chapter. We're investing in the future of our Ministry Services work, developing innovative ways to support churches and Christian charities with the practical foundations they need to flourish. As part of this journey, we're seeking a strategic thinker and skilled delivery leader to help turn bold ambitions into reality. 

This is a rare opportunity to work alongside our Executive Team, influencing the direction of a significant new area of work at a key stage of development. You'll bring clarity to complexity, transforming ideas into actionable plans and ensuring strategic priorities become tangible outcomes. 

You'll work closely with the Executive Team to:

• Shape and deliver the next phase of our Ministry Services strategy.

• Lead strategic projects from concept through to implementation.

• Explore new opportunities, partnerships and potential acquisitions.

• Build business cases, commercial models and strategic recommendations.

• Gather market insight and test assumptions to inform future growth.

• Design operating models, governance structures and delivery frameworks.

• Engage stakeholders across the organisation, helping people embrace and navigate change. 

You'll be someone who enjoys tackling complex challenges and creating order where there is uncertainty. You combine strategic insight with strong execution skills and are motivated by seeing meaningful change take shape.

You'll likely bring experience from strategy consulting, corporate development, transformation, business planning or a similar environment, together with:

• Excellent commercial and analytical capability.

• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.

• Experience developing business cases and strategic proposals.

• Confidence operating with senior leaders and external partners.

• Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal.

• The ability to balance long-term vision with practical delivery.

If you're excited by the opportunity to combine strategic leadership, organisational transformation and Kingdom impact, we'd love to hear from you.

Occupational Requirement (OR)

As a result of our Christian ethos, this post is covered by an Occupational Requirement (OR) under Part 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010. The successful applicant will be expected to be a practising Christian and to clearly demonstrate a personal commitment to the mission, principles, values and practices contained in our Ethos Statement, by:

· Active membership of local church congregation.

An understanding of the faith aspects of the work of Christian charities, including the preparedness to pray with colleagues, where appropriate.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a respected and well-established charity with deep roots in the communities we serve. Jigsaw4u has a strong reputation and dedicated staff and volunteers.

As CEO, you will provide strategic, operational and cultural leadership, working closely with the Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers and partners to ensure the delivery of high-quality services.  You will drive our strategic priorities, strengthen financial sustainability, build effective partnerships and foster an inclusive, high-performance culture.

We are seeking a values-driven leader who can inspire confidence, champion collaboration and innovation and deliver meaningful outcomes for children, young people and families.

The development officer supports World Physiotherapy’s global development programmes and initiatives, working closely with the development programme manager and senior development officer. The role contributes to projects that strengthen the physiotherapy profession worldwide through programme development, donor engagement, grant support, project administration, stakeholder communications, and the coordination of meetings and events.

This is an excellent opportunity for a highly organised and proactive individual interested in global health and international development. The postholder will work with a diverse range of partners, including member organisations, donors, consultants, academic institutions, and international agencies, helping to advance projects that improve physiotherapy education, practice, and professional development around the world.

Duties and key responsibilities

The development officer will:

• Support the development and delivery of programmes that strengthen physiotherapy globally.
• Provide administrative and operational support to the development programme manager and senior development officer across a range of development initiatives.
• Assist in the identification, design, and development of new programmes and projects that support the establishment and growth of the physiotherapy profession.
• Monitor and track funding, partnership, and development opportunities relevant to World Physiotherapy’s strategic priorities.
• Support donor engagement activities and contribute to the cultivation and maintenance of donor relationships.
• Assist with the preparation of grant proposals, concept notes, reports, and other fundraising materials.
• Support the coordination, administration, and monitoring of existing development projects and programmes.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, records, and databases, ensuring compliance with organisational requirements.
• Coordinate meetings, webinars, workshops, and other activities related to membership and development programmes and partnerships.
• Manage membership and development-related enquiries and assist with follow-up communications with stakeholders and partners.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including member organisations, partners, funders, and consultants.
• Contribute to the preparation of project updates, communications, presentations, and reports as required.
• Undertake other duties commensurate with the role and level of responsibility.

Education and qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy, international development, global or public health, or related field
• Commitment to ongoing professional development in governance or non-profit management.

Essential experience and skills

• Experience within the health, education, regulatory, international development sector highly regarded.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent planning and organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Experience coordinating projects and supporting committees or governance processes.
• Experience in fundraising and/or writing grant proposals.
• Ability to work independently within a hybrid environment.
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders.
• Experience in Microsoft suite/excel.

Desirable

• Knowledge of the physiotherapy profession and the role of professional associations in advancing healthcare and rehabilitation.
• Experience working with international professional associations, non-governmental organisations, or health-related organisations.
• Experience engaging and collaborating with stakeholders from diverse cultural and geographic backgrounds.
• Understanding of global health, rehabilitation, or international development programmes.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency in Spanish or French (highly desirable) or another language in addition to English.

Personal attributes

• Highly organised, proactive, and detail oriented.
• Strong integrity and commitment to transparency and accountability.
• Collaborative, diplomatic, and skilled in stakeholder management.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strategic thinker with a practical, solution-oriented mindset.

Impact of the role

The development officer will support programmes and partnerships that strengthen the physiotherapy profession globally. Through assisting with programme development, fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and project coordination, the postholder will help World Physiotherapy deliver initiatives that build workforce capacity, support member organisations, and improve access to high-quality rehabilitation services worldwide.

Amputee Network Development Officer – South West

Fixed term 12 months from starting date with potential to extend

Ensure that no amputee need cope alone

The Limbless Association is seeking a proactive, creative and resourceful Development Officer to enable the charity to extend its reach across the south west.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting individuals and their families experiencing amputation, through their rehabilitation, recovery and life beyond limb loss.

The Amputee Network Development Officer will play a pivotal role in the LA realising its outreach aims in the region. This role will build capacity across a range of outreach support activities, working closely with the Regional Development Manager (South), Services Development Lead and Volunteer Coordinator, to realise increased multi- stakeholder engagement, project reach, awareness of the charity and its services as well as working with the team to realise regional financial support of the LA’s work.

We’re looking for someone who:

· Is passionate about building strong outcomes focused relationships with a variety of stakeholders.

· Enjoys turning ideas into meaningful opportunities and actions.

· Can think strategically whilst remaining practical

· Understands the importance of lived experience and co-production

· Has a strong geographical knowledge of the south west of England.

· Wants to make a genuine difference

If you are motivated by improving lives with purpose and compassion, we would love to hear from you.

We are seeking an exceptional leader to join ClementJames as our Interim Chief Programmes Officer for a 12-month maternity cover. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will be one of three members of our Senior Management Team, alongside the Chief Executive and Chief Operations Officer, providing strategic leadership for the organisation and ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional services and lasting impact.

This is a unique opportunity to build on the strong foundations established by our current Chief Programmes Officer while bringing fresh ideas and expertise during an exciting period in the organisation’s development. You will lead the delivery of our services, inspire and develop a talented team of senior managers, champion quality, impact and continuous improvement, strengthen strategic partnerships, and help shape the future direction of ClementJames.

We are looking for an experienced senior leader who combines strategic vision with operational excellence, is passionate about developing people and partnerships, and shares our belief that everyone should have the opportunity to achieve their potential.

Are you an exceptional governance professional who thrives working in a fast-paced environment?  

We are looking for a highly capable Governance and Executive Manager to play a pivotal role at the heart of our charity. Working closely with the CEO, Trustees and Executive, you will help ensure the organisation is governed to the highest standards while driving forward key strategic priorities including EDI and ESG.

This is a rare opportunity to combine your governance expertise with meaningful strategic impact in a dynamic and values-led organisation.

As our Governance and Executive Manager, you will be the trusted adviser and primary point of contact for our Board of Trustees, supporting effective decision-making and ensuring compliance with charity and company law.

You will lead the delivery of high-quality governance processes, oversee Board and Committee administration, support regulatory compliance and help develop policies and frameworks that strengthen our organisation.

Alongside this, you will provide executive-level support to the CEO, helping to coordinate priorities, prepare reports and contribute to organisational success.

About Us
The National Landscapes Association represents and supports the UK’s National Landscapes (Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty) - places where we want nature and people to flourish together. These living, protected landscapes are vital to the UK’s nature recovery, climate resilience, sustainable farming and wellbeing.

We work collaboratively and inclusively to ensure these treasured places are protected, restored, and accessible to all. We are looking for a proficient and motivated individual to help drive it forward.

About the Role

The Development Officer will support the delivery of the Association’s income generation and partnership strategy, helping to diversify and grow funding streams across corporate partnerships, philanthropy, grants and strategic collaborations. The role exists to support the identification, development and stewardship of partnerships, with a particular focus on outreach to secure private finance and build long-term relationships with partners, investors and philanthropic funders alike. You will play a key role in supporting the full partnership lifecycle, from prospecting and engagement through to proposal development, account management and delivery.

This role is for an enthusiastic and proactive development professional, who is looking to grow their experience in partnerships, fundraising and income diversification within a purpose-led organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Outreach and pipeline development: Support proactive outreach to corporate partners, funders and investors through research and identification to build a strong pipeline of opportunities that are successfully managed through a tailored engagement approach.
• New business and proposal development: Support the development of high-quality partnership proposals, drafting compelling narratives and supporting materials aligned to potential funder interests and organisational requirements.
• Partnership and stakeholder management: Support the management of existing partnerships, ensuring strong relationships are developed and maintained and that outputs are delivered as agreed, assisting in monitoring, comms and impact reporting.
• Events representation, networking and engagement: Attend and represent the Association at events, conferences and networking opportunities, helping to raise the profile of National Landscapes as an investment opportunity within the nature and environmental sector.
• Income diversification trend and insight monitoring: Support the exploration of new income streams and partnership models, including private finance and blended finance approaches, monitoring market trends, funding opportunities (both corporate and philanthropic) and competitor activity to inform strategy.
• Team support and collaboration:Work closely with the Head of Partnerships and Fundraising, the Development Team and wider Association Team to deliver programme priorities and contribute to a collaborative, supportive and high-performing team culture.

See the role description for more information, including the person specification.

Why Join Us?
At the National Landscapes Association, you’ll be part of a passionate and forward-thinking team making a meaningful impact. You’ll gain experience working dynamically alongside experts across the UK, and help shape the future of our most valued landscapes.

Join the Commonwealth Foundation at an exciting moment as we launch our new 2026–2031 Strategy with a renewed focus on the value of both our Advocacy and Creative approaches.

Location: Central London (Hybrid)
Annual Salary Range: £40,612 to £45,079 per annum
Closing date: 19 August, 1pm BST
Contract: Permanent / Full-time (35 hours per week)

We are seeking an experienced and collaborative professional to support the delivery of the Foundation’s Advocacy and Creative Programme. They will contribute to flagship initiatives, including the Commonwealth Short Story Prize and adda, our online literary magazine. The postholder will also deliver creative outputs linked to advocacy priorities, and other high-profile activities that engage civil society, creative practitioners and partners from across the Commonwealth.

This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of creativity and advocacy, supporting programmes that amplify diverse voices, foster dialogue and contribute to the Foundation’s wider strategic objectives.

As Senior Programme Officer, you will play a key role in delivering creative projects and initiatives, managing relationships with writers, artists and partners, and ensuring the effective coordination of programme activities. Working closely with colleagues across the Foundation, you will contribute creative perspectives to advocacy platforms and help strengthen engagement with creative communities across the Commonwealth.

This is a great opportunity for someone who thrives in a collaborative and international environment, enjoys working across a range of creative projects, and is passionate about using creativity to support civic participation across the Commonwealth.

We are looking for someone who: 

• Has experience delivering creative, cultural, advocacy or engagement programmes in an international, civil society or not-for-profit context
• Combines strong project management and organisational skills with a creative and collaborative approach
• Builds effective relationships with writers, artists, partners and stakeholders across diverse cultural contexts
• Is confident in handling multiple priorities, coordinating complex activities and delivering high-quality outputs to deadlines
• Brings creativity, initiative and sound judgement, with a strong interest in storytelling, civic participation and amplifying diverse voices

Working with us

We aim to create an environment where everyone can contribute at their best. Our hybrid working model combines the benefits of both office-based and remote working inclusively and flexibly.

Staff work from the office for at least five days per fortnight, including Wednesdays as an all-staff day. This role is offered on a permanent full-time basis; however, flexible working arrangements can be discussed as part of the recruitment process.

Our offer to you

We offer a competitive benefits package designed to support staff wellbeing, work–life balance and longer-term financial security. This includes:

• 30 days of annual leave, alongside public holidays and privilege days
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
• Private medical and dental insurance
• Life Assurance
• Enhanced sick pay
• Enhanced family leave and pay
• Learning and development opportunities
• A supportive and inclusive working environment

How to apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a supporting statement demonstrating, with relevant examples, how your skills, knowledge and experience meet the requirements set out in the person specification. Please follow the link below to submit your application.

Please note that we cannot consider incomplete applications.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date and invited to a first-stage online interview.

Full details of the Job Description, Applicant Information Pack, and Behavioural Competencies Framework can be downloaded using the links below.

For queries, please contact our Recruitment Team. Contact details are availble on our website and in the Applicant Information Pack.

Eligibility

To be considered for this role, candidates must have the right to work in the UK. You will be asked to confirm your right to work as part of the application process.

Selection process

First Interview dates: w/c 7 September

Candidates successful at the first interview will be invited to attend a second-stage interview in person.

 Second interview dates: TBC

 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The Commonwealth Foundation values diversity of thought, background, identity and experience, recognising that inclusive teams strengthen organisational effectiveness and impact.

We are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where differences are respected, contributions are valued, and everyone is supported to thrive. We particularly encourage applications from individuals from historically marginalised and underrepresented groups.

If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact our Recrutiment Team (contact information available on the website and in the application pack). We will work with you to provide appropriate support.

Salary: £49,100 per annum

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract

Closing date: 16 August 2026 at 11pm

Interview date: 24-25 August 2026

We are recruiting for two Interim Senior Programme Development Specialists:

· 5-month fixed term contract (from 21 September 2026 – 28 February 2027)

· 6-month fixed term contract (from 15 September 2026 – 15 March 2027)

Please specify in your application form which fixed term contract role you are applying for.

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?

Do you want to play a key role in an experienced and passionate team supporting and shaping CARE International UK’s portfolio? Join the Programme Funding Team! The team shapes our restricted programme portfolio by securing funding from UK-based institutional donors, trusts and foundations, multilaterals and in some cases private sector donors.

The Senior Programme Development Specialist leads the design of complex proposals – including bids £20m+ and FCDO commercial contracts. They also play a vital role ensuring quality bid submissions to a variety of donors, aligning with CARE international UK’s impact objectives, in particular gender justice and local leadership. 

About the role

As the Senior Programme Development Specialist, you will manage a pipeline of institutional funding opportunities and be responsible for securing a significant proportion of CIUK’s restricted income. You will work in partnership with CARE country offices, national and international partners, finance colleagues, and technical advisory teams to identify, scope, bid for and secure new funding for programmes through both grant and commercial contract modalities. You will deliver a high-quality bidding process, submitting applications to funders such as FCDO, DEC, START Fund, Education Cannot Wait, Jersey Overseas Aid Committee, and Power of Nutrition. You will build learning from existing CARE programmes into bid design and design programmes in line with CARE policies and standards, as well as donor standards.

About you

You are a passionate and experienced funding specialist, with a proven track record in fundraising from key UK donors – including solid experience of commercial bidding and FCDO frameworks, trusts and foundations and corporate donors. You will have the ability to lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary teams during proposal preparation, working with partners and colleagues in multiple locations. You have experience in and very good understanding of programme design and meeting institutional and corporate donor requirements. You have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. You are capable of building strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders; you are a positive collaborator and a strong team player.

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 theUK 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 foundhere.

Safeguarding 

CARE International UK has a zero-tolerance approach to any abuse to, sexual harassment of or exploitation of, a vulnerable adult or child 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 our beneficiaries 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. 

Equality and Diversity

We are committed toEquality and value Diversity. We are aDisability Confident Employerand particularly welcome applications from disabled people. We guarantee interviews to disabled applicants 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 are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We particularly welcome applications from people of underrepresented backgrounds, including those from Black, Asian and other ethnic minority communities, and individuals who identify as LGBTQ+.

This is an exciting opportunity for a new Chief Executive Officer to lead our well-respected rare disease patient organisation through the next phase of growth and impact, in particular focussing on financial sustainability and influencing health policy for these rare diseases.These sit alongside the other grass-roots duties of a small charity CEO, including working with our Medical Advisory Team to develop new and maintain existing patient education resources, and overseeing our support services including volunteers and a professional psychological counselling service. Reporting to and working with the Board of Trustees, the CEO will be responsible for delivering our 2027-2030 Strategic Plan, ensuring robust governance, and driving forward our mission to improve the lives of people affected by rare diseases.The CEO manages the part-time Executive Administrator and works with up to 30 current volunteers (patients, carers, and health professionals) to deliver services with impact.This role includes occasional weekend work, as well as approximately 15 days travel (national and international) per year to represent and advocate for the charities’ beneficiaries.