With a 110-year history, we are proud to be able to say that the WI continues to be the largest and most influential UK women’s organisation, with over 170,000 members. Our campaigns push for change on the issues that matter to women and their communities, from equal pay to climate change, mental health and violence against women. The WI has brought about real change, and this record of action shows that we are as relevant today as we were in 1915.
The National Federation of Women’s Institutes (the NFWI) is responsible for running the organisation and provides support and advice to members at both regional and local levels.
About the role
Leading innovation across the organisation, you will be responsible for developing and delivering a strategy to grow our movement, to increase our membership and reach whilst ensuring we continue to reflect the needs and aspirations of women. You will oversee research into women’s evolving needs and preferences, whilst testing approaches with new external audiences to maximise our relevance, diversity and inclusivity. At the same time, you will actively embed innovation into strategy and decision-making in all areas, constantly find new ways to reach underrepresented women and build a wealth of data to support your recommendations. You will lead transformation across the organisation by championing change, creativity and a forward-thinking strategy that ensures the continued growth for the WI.
Location: Hybrid, with one day per week at our London, Oxfordshire or Wales office.
About you
Highly experienced in innovation, organisational development or programme management, you will bring an impressive track record of instigating and managing successful organisational change that leads to sustainable income generation. You will be adept at designing and delivering pilot programmes, as well as commissioning research and deploying data to support action. The role requires excellent communication skills and the confidence to advise and lead at both senior leadership and Board level, as the organisation looks to you to lead fundamental organisational change. Experience within the charity or not-for-profit sector would be beneficial, as would an understanding of trends and issues affecting women across different demographics in the UK.
How to apply
For further information about this Head of Innovation role, please download the recruitment pack which includes the job description and person specification.
To apply, please submit your current CV with a covering letter clearly explaining why you would be suitable for the role to the HR department.
Closing date: 3 September 2026.
First round interview (virtual): 11 September 2026.
Second round interview (in-person): 15 September 2026.
No other media or agencies, please.
The WI is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and values diversity. Reg. Charity No. 803793.
Registered Charity 
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Thank you!
Community Engagement Lead
Oasis Ashburton Park | Croydon
Salary: £33,725
Contract: 1 Year Fixed Term
Hours: 40 hours per week (including some evenings and occasional weekends)
Location: Oasis Ashburton Park (Croydon), working alongside Oasis Academy Shirley Park, Oasis Academy Arena and the wider community
Do you believe strong communities can change lives?
Do you want to help young people thrive, strengthen communities and create lasting change?
Oasis Ashburton Park is seeking an exceptional Community Engagement Lead to join our Youth & Community team and play a pivotal role in supporting children, young people and families across Croydon. Working closely with Oasis Academy Shirley Park, Oasis Academy Arena, local partners and residents, you will help build the relationships, opportunities and support networks that enable young people to flourish.
This role was established as part of Oasis' commitment to strengthening communities and creating safer futures for young people. At its heart is a belief that strong relationships, meaningful opportunities and connected communities are the most effective protective factors in a young person's life.
About the Role
As Community Engagement Lead, you will lead the delivery and development of our Prevention Programme a proactive, relationship-based initiative designed to help young people build confidence, belonging, aspiration and positive pathways for the future.
You will:
- Build trusted relationships with young people and families.
- Coordinate support across schools, community organisations and statutory services.
- Connect young people to mentoring, volunteering, youth provision, employment pathways and leadership opportunities.
- Develop projects and responses that address gaps in local provision.
- Champion relational, restorative and trauma-informed approaches.
- Help create a joined-up neighbourhood model that brings together education, youth work, family support and community development.
About You
We're looking for someone who believes in the power of community and is passionate about helping young people realise their potential.
You will have:
- Experience working with young people in education, youth work or community settings.
- The ability to build positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
- An understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing young people and families.
- Strong communication, organisational and partnership-building skills.
- A commitment to empowering young people as active contributors and leaders within their communities.
- The ability to think creatively, work collaboratively and turn ideas into action.
Why Join Oasis?
At Oasis, we're committed to creating thriving communities where everyone is included, valued and able to contribute. You'll join a passionate team working at the forefront of community-led change, with the opportunity to shape innovative approaches that improve outcomes for young people and influence practice across the wider system.
If you're ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and help build stronger communities across Croydon, we'd love to hear from you.
As part of the package, Oasis offers:
· A pension scheme, offering 7% employer contribution.
· A generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year (plus 8 Bank Holidays).
· Policies which promote well-being and are family friendly.
Apply now and be part of creating a community where every young person can belong, thrive and succeed.
To apply, please send your CV and a Supporting Statement (no more than two A4 pages).
Please expand on your CV to tell us about relevant skills, experience and qualification you have, that relate to the job description and person specification.
We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and underrepresented groups. If you require any assistance to overcome potential barriers during the recruitment process, please let us know.
If you would like a conversation about the role, please contact us via the Oasis Charity Jobs website.
Closing Date: 9am Monday 7th September
Interview Date: to be confirmed
Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks.
The successful candidates must have the right to work in the UK. Oasis cannot assist with sponsorship or visas.
Oasis supports Equal Opportunities. Registered Charity No. 1163889
To apply, please send your CV and a Supporting Statement (no more than two A4 pages)
Please expand on your CV to tell us about relevant skills, experience and qualification you have, that relate to the job description and person specification.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.