Development director jobs

Job description

Stella Maris is the official maritime charity of the Catholic Church.  We are looking for a Regional Port Chaplain for the East Englia Ports to support seafarers, fishers and their families.

In this unique and rewarding role, you'll be the welcoming face of Stella Maris in your region, visiting ships, listening to crew members, and offering practical, pastoral and spiritual support to anyone in need, regardless of faith or background.

About the role

No two days are the same.  You might spend the morning visiting ships and listening to crew members' stories, help someone contact their family back home, support a seafarer in crisis, or offer a quiet moment of prayer on deck.

You'll also recruit and support a team of volunteers, work closely with other maritime charities and local partners, and build strong relationships with parishes, dioceses, and port authorities.  You'll be part of a nationwide network of Stella Maris chaplains, supported through regular meetings, retreats and professional development opportunities.

Key responsibilities

• Visit ships regularly to meet seafarers and fishers, responding to their pastoral, practical and spiritual needs.
• Provide practical help such as transport, communication access, and emergency or crisis support.
• Offer spiritual care to Catholic seafarers and facilitate the religious needs of those from other faiths.
• Recruit, train and support Stella Maris volunteers.
• Work collaboratively with other maritime charities.
• Maintain strong relationships with local parishes, the Diocese of East Anglia, and port stakeholders such as the Harbour Master, shipping agents and welfare committees.
• Support local fundraising and awareness initiatives alongside the charity's national team.

About you

You'll be someone who takes joy in helping others.  You don't need maritime experiences, what matters most is your empathy and ability to offer pastoral support in practical ways.

You may come from a background in chaplaincy, parish ministry, community work or social care.  You'll share our commitment to upholding the dignity of every seafarer and fisher.

We are looking for a Quality and Service Improvement Officer on a part-time basis to fulfil a job-share.

In this important role, you will manage the quality review process by providing expert advice and guidance and support the delivery of the caller feedback service.

You’ll be a key driver of Samaritans’ aim to improve the consistency and quality of our services, ensuring excellent service delivery to all our callers in their time of need.

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Contract

• £16,500 - £17,500 per annum plus benefits (£33,000 - £35,000 FTE)
• Part time (17.5 hrs per week) 
• Permanent
• Hybrid working with link to Ewell office
• In-person working: Meeting in person and working collaboratively are things we value. We work in person around 2 days or more per month.​
• We are passionate about flexible working, talk to us about your preferences 

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What you’ll do 

• Provide expert guidance to staff and volunteers in relation to quality reviews
• Manage the planning and administration of the quality review process
• Maintain and update quality review resources
• Champion quality improvement and development
• Coordinate the caller feedback process
• Engage with callers to gather feedback
• Communicate with branches and hubs to resolve complaints

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What you’ll bring

• Proven experience of quality assurance or quality management
• Experience of engaging with service users to gather feedback, including vulnerable individuals
• Understanding of performance data and reporting methods
• Ability to manage difficult conversations with sensitivity
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage tasks and projects concurrently
• Good practical knowledge of data protection legislation

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Full Job Description and Person Specification available below

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Criminal record check (DBS)

We take safeguarding seriously at Samaritans and follow safe recruitment practices. As this role has direct contact with children and adults at risk, this role will require an Enhanced DBS check with Adults and Children’s Barred Lists.

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At offer stage, as part of the conditional job offer, we will require the candidate to disclose in full, spent and unspent convictions by completing a declaration form. The declaration form will only be seen by those who need to see it as part of the recruitment process.

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Why Samaritans?

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At Samaritans, you’ll be part of a people-first organisation deeply committed to inclusion, compassion and learning. You’ll contribute to a team where your voice matters, your expertise makes a difference, and your work helps save lives.

We welcome applications from individuals with lived experience and encourage those from underrepresented communities to apply. We are committed to creating an environment where all our people feel seen, heard and supported.

You’ll join a values-led organisation with a powerful mission and a collaborative culture. We offer flexible hybrid working, excellent benefits, and the chance to make a tangible difference in suicide prevention across the UK and Ireland.

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For further information about Samaritans, including our charity structure, values, employee benefits, and application process, please read our recruitment brochure attached below. You can also visit our careers website to access this.

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We recognise the enormous benefits and the social justice imperatives of ensuring diversity at every level of our organisation. Samaritans is wholly committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture and environment where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are. To ensure Samaritans is representative of those we support and who support us, we particularly welcome applications from disabled, racialised minority and LGBTQ+ candidates, as these people are under-represented at Samaritans.

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Apply now

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If this sounds like the opportunity for you, please apply. You will be asked to some answer short application questions and to upload your CV.

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We kindly ask that you don’t rely on AI tools for your application answers, or to generate interview answers. We want to see your own unique ideas and writing skills. We want your application to stand out from the rest and showcase your own strengths.

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​Applications close: Monday 19th January 2026 at 09:00am

Interviews: w/c 26th January 2026

The Chief Programmes and Outreach Officer is a member of the Executive Team and a key advisor to the Board and the CEO, responsible for evidence-based pedagogy and practice, partnership development and adoption of innovative methodologies.

This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of Holocaust and antisemitism education in the UK at a pivotal moment in history. We are undoubtedly at a crucial juncture in Holocaust education and remembrance. Our work faces two  profound challenges: the international backdrop of rising antisemitism, Holocaust denial and distortion, alongside the inevitable loss of the remaining survivors and the need to develop effective new educational models that no longer rely on live testimony. In this challenging context, this post’s work will be critical in ensuring we carry the legacy of Holocaust survivors forward through innovative, impactful programmes that reach diverse audiences across the UK.

The post is accountable for the strategic vision and operational excellence of all the Trust's educational programmes, developing and delivering innovative, historically sound, educationally robust learning programmes that are recognised nationally and internationally as best practice. A key focus of the role is driving greater technological excellence in both teaching and operations, particularly digital testimony preservation and the use of educational technology.

The post’s success is the continuous improvement of both programme reach and impact, engaging new and diverse audiences and demonstrating meaningful long-term impact in line with the Trust’s mission and vision.

Key Responsibilities:

• Organisational leadership, as a member of the Executive Team
• Team Management and Development 
• Financial Management 
• Programme Innovation, Development and Delivery
• Partnerships and External Relations
• Impact, Evaluation and Learning
• Safeguarding and Quality Assurance

For the full Job Description, Person Specification, and details on how to apply, please follow the link to our website.

As our Senior Operations Officer you will develop and provide an excellent operational and administrative support function across the charity, with primary responsibility for Executive Assistant duties and supporting key charity projects. AI interest and curiosity highly desirable to support our innovation journey.

Who are we and what do we do? We're the UK's leading ovarian cancer research charity, working on early detection, prevention and treatments so that no woman dies of ovarian cancer.

Ovarian Cancer Action is a community of changemakers with one purpose: to give ovarian cancer the focus it needs to increase 10-year survival rates. And we know research is the solution.

We live and breathe this lifesaving, world-leading research. We fund more ovarian cancer research than any other UK gynaecological cancer charity. It’s how we’ve driven some of the biggest breakthroughs of the last 19 years.

We're also the only charity at the heart of the global ovarian cancer research community and have been for four decades.

By connecting the world's leading scientists together, we’re creating a powerful hub of experience, expertise and insight. So, we confidently fund research that takes us a step closer to our goal: that by 2032 half of women will live more than 10 years after diagnosis.

Scope of the role

· EA support to Chief Executive and Leadership Team, Chair, Board of Trustees and Committees (55%)

· Administrative and project support to the Director of Finance & Operations and HR Consultant covering Finance, IT, HR, Volunteer Management and Operations (35%)

· Administrative support to wider charity teams (10%)

Key areas of responsibility:

Executive Assistant Support to CEO and Leadership Team

· Provide comprehensive PA support to the Chief Executive, including proactive diary management, anticipating needs, and coordinating complex schedules

· Prepare for team meetings and other key meetings, including agenda compilation, document preparation, and follow-up actions

· Support the preparation of high-quality presentations and key documents for internal and external stakeholders

· Organise and coordinate team events, including summer and Christmas parties, team lunches, and ad hoc meals and events

· Provide responsive tech support and troubleshooting to the CEO and Leadership Team, helping them make effective use of available tools

Support to the Director of Finance & Operations and HR Consultant

· Finance and IT – Provide administrative and project support across finance processes; troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in collaboration with the Director of Finance & Operations

· HR – Collaborate with the HR Consultant across the employee lifecycle, including recruitment administration, new staff induction and onboarding, leaver processes, and learning & development initiatives

· Volunteer management – Support the recruitment and ongoing engagement of volunteers, ensuring positive volunteer experiences

· Operations & innovation – Lead the continuous review, improvement and maintenance of internal processes, policies and procedures. Identify and explore opportunities to implement AI tools and automation to enhance operational efficiency

· Reporting – Assist the Director of Finance in preparing comprehensive quarterly performance reports

· Supplier relations – Maintain and develop excellent supplier relationships through regular meetings and communications, continually looking for ways to work more effectively together

Board of Trustees support

· Schedule and coordinate Board and Committee meetings, ensuring all logistics are managed smoothly

· Provide wider governance support, acting as a key liaison point for the Chair, Board of Trustees and Committee members

Support to wider Charity Team

· Act as the first point of contact for the charity, managing the Info@ inbox, responding to phone enquiries, and supporting the postal process with professionalism and warmth

· Support the Fundraising Team with accurate and timely data entry

· Respond to general enquiries to the charity, either directly or by coordinating with relevant team members

· Provide flexible ad hoc administrative support across teams as needed

· Schedule virtual and in-person meetings efficiently, including booking appropriate venues

Person specification

At Ovarian Cancer Action, we value confidence, positivity, resilience and passion. We recognise that attitude, approach to work, and how you engage with fellow team members are just as important as your technical skills and abilities.

Essential experience

· Demonstrable experience working in a role requiring high-level administrative, organisational and interpersonal skills in a professional environment

· Experience delivering excellent, detail-oriented cross-functional administrative support

· Strong track record of providing internal and external customer care and building productive relationships

· Experience communicating to a high standard, particularly via phone and email, with a variety of stakeholders at all levels

· Experience developing, embedding and following processes to deliver excellent administrative and project support

· Experience working with confidential and sensitive information, demonstrating discretion and sound judgment

· Proficiency in Outlook and Microsoft Applications, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint (experience with Microsoft Teams and SharePoint is desirable)

Our benefits and flexible working

 · Flexible working: At Ovarian Cancer Action we strive to be a place where the best people do their best work. To support you in doing just that we take a pro-active approach to the conversations we have with staff and candidates around working patterns. We are therefore open to considering a variety of flexible working options, welcoming these discussions right from the application stage through to the different stages of life and career, supporting the changing needs of your work-life balance.

· Annual leave: We offer much more than the statutory amount of annual leave. In addition to 25 days annual leave and eight days of public holidays per year, three days are also given to be taken between Christmas and New year, so that in total you can receive up to 36 days paid leave.

· Employer and employee contributory pension: We offer a generous pension scheme above the statutory minimum requirement.

· Healthcare plan: To support your health and wellbeing, we have partnered with Simplyhealth to offer cash back on a range of healthcare services, as well as access to a 24-hour free GP phone line and counselling service.

· Gym discounts: As part of the Ovarian Cancer Action’s healthcare plan you will be able to claim discount on gym membership at participating gyms.

· Eye test and financial support with glasses if needed when using a VDU at work.

· Maternity and paternity pay: The early days of raising a family are so important; you need time to adjust to the physical, emotional and practical changes. To support this, we offer additional enhanced maternity and paternity pay for eligible employees.

· Training and development opportunities: We want everyone at Ovarian Cancer Action to have a growth mindset, always striving to improve and not worried about failure. We are therefore always looking for ways to support and encourage you to grow as the charity grows and will work on an individualised learning and development plan for you each year.

· Employee Assistance Programme: Your well-being is important to us and to help support this our employees and their direct family have access to a 24-hour confidential and free Employee Assistance Programme phone line to support personal and work-related issues.

· Social events for the team: We believe work should be fun and to have the opportunity to enjoy the great team we work with. To give you a flavour of this, please ask how our guided tour around the East End of London went, highlighting how women were involved in the area's vibrant history.

Our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion

We are committed to actively promoting equality, diversity and inclusivity and welcome enquiries and applications from underrepresented groups, including minoritised communities and applicants with disabilities.At Ovarian Cancer Action, we firmly believe that embracing diversity, promoting equality, and fostering inclusivity are not just buzzwords but essential values that drive our success. We understand that a diverse workforce brings together unique perspectives, experiences, and talents, which ultimately fuels innovation and enhances our ability to better serve the communities we serve and work with. 

Don’t meet every single requirement?   Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. We are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the role description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles that we have.

NACE is a national education charity focused on evidence-informed school improvement and provision for more able learners, and a challenge for all approach to the wider quality of education for all learners. 

We are looking for a Chief Executive to strengthen our voice, grow our membership community, increase demand for NACE resources and services and deepen our impact across the sector.

The Opportunity

As CEO you will be the strategic lead and public face of NACE, building partnerships, amplifying our influence in national conversations, and ensuring our offer continues to deliver clear value for members. 

You’ll work closely with a skilled central team and associates, and with a supportive Executive Board, to realise an ambitious growth plan while safeguarding quality and financial sustainability.

Flexible and portfolio working will be welcomed.

What you’ll lead

Profile & influence:

Position NACE as a recognised and authoritative voice in school improvement for more able learners. Through “challenge for all” strategies in curriculum and pedagogy, by securing speaking opportunities, thought-leadership pieces and strategic policy roundtables; build trusted relationships across MATs, system leaders and sector bodies.

Membership growth:

Deliver a clear value proposition and growth strategy that increases recruitment and retention, secures long-term sustainability, and nurtures a strong sense of community among members.

Partnerships & income:

Develop productive alliances (education, charity and commercial) and responsible income streams (e.g., sponsorships, funded programmes) aligned to mission. 

Team & operations:

Lead and develop the central team and wider associate network; delegate effectively so you can focus on growth, profile and stakeholder engagement; ensure robust budgeting and prudent stewardship. 

What you’ll bring

Sector and system understanding, with credibility to engage senior decision makers and an ability to translate evidence into compelling practice.

Proven ability and track record in scaling reach, membership or audiences through clear propositions, effective marketing/ communications and partnership building.

Excellent communication skills, to include clear, accessible writing and confident presenting for diverse audiences.

Inclusive, collaborative leadership where you develop people, build cohesive teams and work well with trustees; bring sound financial judgement and understand sustainable business models. 

What success looks like in year one

Noticeable uplift in membership recruitment and retention, underpinned by a clear value proposition and data-informed improvements to the offer.

Increased national visibility and demand for resources and services through regular sector platforms, strategic partnerships and stronger recognition of NACE’s contribution to school improvement.

A confident, motivated team with clear roles and delegated operational leadership, enabling you to concentrate on external growth and influence.

Please see the full Job description attached

Our commitment to inclusion

We are committed to fair, inclusive and bias-aware recruitment. If you need adjustments at any stage, or the information in a different format, please let us know. We encourage applications from people with diverse backgrounds and career paths; selection is based on evidence against the criteria in the person specification.

NACE is a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee. Consequently, Board members are simultaneously Trustees of the charity and directors of the company. The Memorandum and Articles of Association are the primary governing documents of the charitable company.

Contract Type: Full-time, permanent, 35 hours per week

Location: Hybrid (2-3 days per week in the London office; the remainder working from home) 

Reports to: Managing Director

Salary and Benefits: £45-60k depending on experience, plus discretionary annual bonus, 35 days leave per year (inclusive of bank holidays), a 6% employer pension contribution and the right to work from any location for up to 25 working days per year.

Career Progression: We want our people to flourish and grow whilst working for us, helping to contribute towards Future Advocacy’s continued success and impact. This is why we place a big emphasis on learning and development. There are potential future pathways for the right candidate to progress into a “Head of” role and beyond.

Why join us?

Future Advocacy is a global agency, based in London, Brussels and Berlin, that puts cutting-edge advocacy, campaigning and communications tools into the hands of individuals and organisations working to create a better future. 

We are highly skilled at:

• Designing winning advocacy and strategic communications strategies 
• Mobilising targeted and powerful campaigns for change
• Securing strategically important media coverage
• Digital and creative campaigns
• Research, analysis, policy development and writing 
• Training in all aspects of strategy, government relations, campaigning, and media work

We are proud to work for some fantastic clients seeking to make the world a better place. Current and previous clients include the Jamie Oliver Group; Movember; the Elton John AIDS Foundation; Brave Movement; Centre for Democracy and Technology; ECPAT International; Which?; WaterAid; Bite Back 2030; World Food Programme; Islamic Relief; Sarah Brown’s TheirWorld charity; Wellcome Trust, and the World Wide Web Foundation. 

Our small but mighty team is made up of people from 8 countries around the world, with experience in government, politics, NGOs, foundations, and the private sector - all motivated to drive positive change. Our Founder/CEO previously was Director of the ONE campaign across Europe for seven years, responsible for all ONE’s policy, campaigns, digital, media, and advocacy work. He was a key architect of the Make Poverty History Campaign; Movement Director for the anti-slavery organisation Walk Free; and an Executive Director of the UK Labour Party. 

The Role

Future Advocacy is looking for a Senior Consultant in Strategic Communications and Advocacy. This is a unique opportunity to take a leading role on high-impact projects within a small, dynamic organisation that values creativity, collaboration, and personal growth. We’re looking for a versatile and talented professional, who is excited to lead and contribute to meaningful strategic communications and advocacy initiatives for our brilliant clients.

What we’re looking for

As a Senior Consultant, you will:

• Lead and contribute to client projects
• Design and implement strategic communications strategies
• Drive forward media relations:
  • Spot news hooks and craft stories that land and secure media coverage 
  • Work on high-impact opinion pieces with our champions 
  • Secure broadcast opportunities for key spokespeople 
• Develop and execute UK and global government relations strategies, and meet with decision-makers
• Help to maintain extremely high writing quality across the organisation including on social media
• Line-manage team members, supporting their growth, development, and impact while fostering a positive, collaborative, and empowering team environment
• Oversee our monitoring platform subscriptions and support colleagues who regularly use them
• Contribute to business development, including writing proposals and budgets for new projects
• Contribute to modelling and strengthening our culture
• Undertaking additional tasks as needed

Requirements

We would love to hear from you if you meet the criteria below:

• At least 5 - 10 years of proven success in strategic communications
• A flair for storytelling, with proven excellent media relations skills and connections with UK and/or international media
• A sharp political nose and strong political literacy, with an excellent grasp of key UK political actors, power dynamics and how narratives shift.
• Exceptional writing and verbal communication skills in English
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team, in a fast-paced environment, while also being a generous and collaborative team member
• Enthusiasm, flexibility, and ability to manage competing priorities 
• Strong capability to represent the organisation to high-level individuals and clients
• Experience in line managing and nurturing team members
• Experience in effectively managing projects
• Undergraduate degree or equivalent 

Nice to Have:

• Experience in designing and delivering government relations and advocacy strategies - including engaging with decision makers
• Experience working in international development
• Experience using media monitoring tools
• Proven experience in managing client relationships, acting as a trusted point of contact and ensuring work is delivered to a consistently high standard
• Experience in, and enthusiasm for, using AI tools ethically for advocacy, campaigns, communications, and research

Our Culture

Our culture and values are very important to us, allowing us to thrive in a fast changing world. The key values that drive us at Future Advocacy are:

• Always Learning: We constantly strive to improve the work we do, as a team and as individuals.
• Impactful: We define success in terms of the impact our work has on making the world more equal, sustainable and more prosperous.
• Supportive: We are open, responsive, positive and supportive to each other and to others.

Apply for this Job

Please apply below, with a CV and cover letter.

The deadline for applications is 11.59pm on 8 February. 

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a short online assessment, and if successful, first round interviews will be held (online) the week beginning 23rd February.

If we’re both excited to proceed, second interviews will be held in person, where we will ask you to complete a written task.

Future Advocacy is committed to equal opportunities. We welcome applications from individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender, or disability.  We particularly encourage applications from members of groups that are currently under-represented in our organisation, including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds. 

We are happy to discuss flexible working and other adjustments on a case by case basis.

The Head of Finance is a key member of the Senior Management Team responsible for the Trust’s financial management including; financial and management accounts, financial planning and budget submissions, forecasting and cashflow management, compliance and financial governance and the statutory accounts and audit. The produces group accounts comprising the GWT charity and the wholly owned trading subsidiary, GWT Trading Ltd. The GWT charity includes the UK based headquarters, fundraising team and two welfare advice centres, and GWT (Nepal), which is responsible for delivering the majority of charitable activities directly in Nepal. Supported by the Finance Director GWT (Nepal), Head of Finance is responsible for reporting on the financial performance of the Trust to the CEO and the Audit and Finance Committees.

Secretary of the Investment Committee and the key interface between the two Investment Managers and the Investment Committee Chair and members.

Head of profession, providing leadership and professional mentoring and development to the finance teams in the UK and Nepal.

The Trust is looking to introduce a new finance system within the next 12 months, under the direction of Head of Finance.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This role’s primary responsibilities will be as follows:

 1. Financial Leadership and Control

•  Day to day responsibility for the Trust’s finance function ensuring robust financial control, accurate reporting, and effective systems that underpin the charity’s strategic ambitions and operational delivery.
• Advising Trustees on all aspects of the Trust’s financial performance and position including that of GWT(N).
• Provide financial advice in support of the strategic direction of the Trust.

2. Financial Management and Control

• Preparation of the quarterly management accounts with supporting commentary for the Finance Committee and Trustees.
• Monthly Group consolidation, including Balance Sheet and P&L revaluations and review of completeness of management accounts.
• Payroll management for all GWT UK staff including salaries, pension contributions and medical insurance. Ensuring the correct application and reporting of statutory allowances to HMRC through monthly RTI reports.
• Cashflow management.
•  Investments: key interface with Investment Managers (Sarasin & Partners LLP and CCLA), and ensuring the correct accounting and reporting of in-period movements within PS Financials.
• Constructive Obligation: Review annual assumptions and options for agreement by the Audit Committee. Liaise with the actuary (located in India) for annual valuation.

 3. Financial Reporting and Audit

• Preparation of the Trust’s annual budget and 10-year income & expenditure and investment assessment with supporting schedules for submission to the Finance Committee and Trustees.
• In liaison with HR, evaluate and present options for UK staff annual salary awards.
• Monitor Trust’s financial performance, identifying risks and opportunities for performance improvement.
• Prepare GWT and GWT Trading Ltd statutory accounts in accordance with Charities SORP and Charity Commission requirements and with supporting schedules for audit purposes. Maintain reserve policies, presenting changes for Audit Committee approval.
• Lead for ensuring the correct adoption of SORP 26, with specific focus on the changes in lease accounting.
• In liaison with Comms & Digital Manager, oversee the preparation of the Annual Report for Trustee approval.

4. Compliance and Governance

• Responsibility for maintaining an appropriate system of internal control within the Trust.  Lead for the contracted UK Internal Audit capability and provide advice and support to GWT(N) Internal Auditor.
• Lead for Counter Fraud Policy and fraud awareness.
• Responsibility for accounting policies and procedures throughout the Trust, ensuring they are up to date and in accordance with current best practice and regulatory and Charity Commission requirements.

5. Financial Guidance and Stakeholder Engagement

• Maintain regular liaison with the Treasurer and Auditor.
• Liaise with HMRC as required on all aspects of the Trust’s accounts.
• Providing an external interface with banks, auditors, pension funds, investment managers, consultants and charity finance specialists.
• Lead for negotiating the annual Support and Medical Grant-in-Aid (GIA) with MOD and providing quarterly performance reporting.
• Provide financial advice and support to all members of staff within their areas of responsibility including assisting with the financial aspects of grant applications, contract negotiations and project proposals and to provide guidance on HMRC, Charity Commission and other regulations.

 6. Leadership and Line Management

• Line management responsibility of Financial Accountant who has day-to-day responsibility for financial transactions and input to PS Financials.
• Provide financial advice and support to Finance Director GWT(N).
• Ensuring the continued profession development of all finance staff.
• Secretary to Audit Committee and Investment Committee.

KEY SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS AND KNOWLEDGE, AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

Applicants for this position should be able to satisfy the following criteria:

Essential:

• Qualified Accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA or equivalent)
• Track record in financial management at a senior level
• Experience of working in the charity or third sector at a senior level
• Understanding of how an organisation’s strategic direction is supported by its financial framework
• Experience of accounting data processing and report generation using current business intelligence (BI) and reporting packages in addition to Excel
• Ability to work both strategically and operationally
• Track record in managing direct reports including effective delegation, coaching and performance management
• Attention to detail while being able to see the big picture
• Leading a team

Desirable:

• PS Financials
• Experience of implementing a new finance system within an organisation

QUERIES

If you have any questions over the job description or terms and conditions, please get in touch with us.  Please note we may close this vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.

The Chief Executive provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Sheila McKechnie Foundation, ensuring the organisation delivers meaningful impact, remains financially sustainable, and continues to be a respected voice in social change and activism.

Leading a small, committed team, the Chief Executive will set the strategic direction, secure and steward funding, and ensure effective delivery of programmes and services. They will work closely with the Board of Trustees, act as an ambassador for the Foundation, and foster strong relationships with partners, funders, and stakeholders.

This is a hands-on role suited to a versatile leader with a passion for social change and building communities, who thrives in a small charity environment.

Key Responsibilities   

To work closely with the Evidence & Advocacy Manager (EAM) to develop and implement a series of impactful evidence and research projects that support our advocacy messaging, as well as internal and external learning for inclusive programmes and advisory work. These projects will build on established workstreams alongside developing new ones to maintain and extend CBM UK’s evidence base.

Disability Evidence, Policy Research and Learning  

With EAM support the ongoing CBM UK Research and Evidence workstream, through:

1. Translating evidence from our programming countries and projects to produce and contribute to a range of resources to influence FCDO and other stakeholders. Tasks to include managing and maintaining established outputs, such as the CBM UK Project Evidence Briefs and Disability Voices paper series, generating new thematic papers, as well as policy and position papers to enhance effective advocacy submissions, briefing notes, blogs and other messaging on key disability rights issues.   
2. Working collaboratively within CBM UK and across CBM Global to help develop and to deliver new policy research, drawing on mixed methods and data sources including national and international databases, using qualitative approaches including participatory or citizen generated data, and new empirical work.
3. Supporting Programme staff to improve impact and learning practice in CBM UK funded projects, provide technical support for the implementation of programme related research and data collection, including MEAL.
4. Providing technical research support into the development of proposals for new grant funded projects, and, where successful, support the management of subsequent research projects. 
5. Keeping abreast of new research and publications on key themes and priority concerns within the CBM UK Advocacy and Influencing Strategy, taking into consideration sector trends and developments, and ensure this is disseminated to relevant staff within the CBM UK Team. 
6. Keeping watch on UK policy environment and conducting research and analysis to support CBM UK advocacy messaging on disability and human rights.

Dissemination and Communications 

1. Maintaining and developing internal knowledge management systems for research and information on disability inclusion and rights, and related areas, to be used by Advocacy, Programmes and Fundraising & Communications teams.
2. Ensuring communication plans are developed with CBM UK and Global Federation colleagues for CBM UK evidence outputs.
3. Maintaining the Advocacy and Influencing pages of the CBM UK website ensuring rights-based communication and focus to support CBM UK and Global campaigns.
4. Liaison with Fundraising & Communications colleagues to amplify media stories, case studies and compelling evidence from country programming for advocacy purposes.
5. Participation in and building good relationships with UK-based disability and development networks, including relevant research networks and membership of the BOND Disability and Development Group. 
6. Supporting the professional publication and printing of CBM UK outputs, for dissemination at advocacy engagements and public events.

Other    

1. Work with other CBM UK teams to maximise cross fertilisation opportunities and integrated working.  
2. Help develop a culture of enthusiasm and success, reflecting the ambitions of CBM. Play an active role across CBM, promoting positive working and innovation. Ensure that the values of CBM UK are understood by external partners and always reflected in communications.  
3. Identify opportunities to initiate and contribute to new initiatives and events, both within CBM UK and externally. 
4. Provide briefings and analysis for the CEO and other Leadership Team members where appropriate. 
5. Carry out any other duties as required by the Evidence & Advocacy Manager, Director of Advocacy, and CEO.  

Location:  London 

Location type:Hybrid

Reporting to:  Director of People and Operations

Annual salary:  £50,000 to £55,000 GBP per annum, depending on experience

Contract type:  Permanent

Working hours:  Full-time, 35 hours a week

Candidate level: Manager

Closing date: Monday 23rd  February, 9:00 am CET

Background

Lumos Foundation works to realise every child’s right to a family by transforming care systems around the world. Our vision is a world in which all children grow up in safe and loving families within supported communities. Founded in 2005 by author J.K. Rowling, Lumos partners with governments, civil society, and young people with lived experience to transform care systems globally and advocate for family-based solutions that help children thrive.

We ensure that families receive the support they need to stay together or reunite, and that children grow up in family-based settings such as foster or kinship care, not institutions. Despite clear evidence of the harms of institutionalisation, more than 5 million children worldwide continue to live in institutions. And a much larger number of children are at risk of family breakdown and separation – those living in poverty, experiencing domestic violence and abuse, and living in countries affected by conflict. We are ambitious for children. In the next 10 years, Lumos will enable 500,000 children in care to return to family-based care and prevent 10 million children from experiencing family breakdown and separation – so that they can thrive in their own families. Working with local, national, and global partners, Lumos supports government-led transformation of childcare systems across Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America- driving systemic and sustainable change.

Lumos’ ambition for children is significant and will require the organisation and its partners to work in new ways, with a pace, drive, and urgency that this moment demands, and that children everywhere deserve. Lumos’ success will continue to be based not just on what we do, but on how we do it – our values. We embrace collaboration. We strive for excellence. We show respect. We always care. And we are passionate. We are Lumos.

Purpose of role

Lumos is entering an exciting period of strategic transformation to strengthen our operational foundations, refine our systems, and enhance our capacity to deliver on our mission to realise every child’s right to a family. The Senior Operations Manager plays a pivotal role in building the operational foundations and risk-aware culture needed for success both now and as the organisation prepares for the future.

As a delivery partner to the Director of People & Operations, the Senior Operations Manager leads the implementation of agreed operational priorities, strengthens country office and partner capability, and ensures that operational standards, policies, and practices are consistently embedded across existing and new geographies. The role provides independent oversight and assurance across operational risk, safety, security, and safeguarding, working closely with delivery teams while retaining the authority to challenge, escalate, and inform senior decision-making.

This is a senior, hands-on role for someone who thrives on systems thinking, coordination, and execution, and who is motivated by turning risk awareness, data, and lessons learned into practical organisational improvement that strengthens organisational resilience and impact.

Primary responsibilities

Operational leadership & delivery

• Act as a senior delivery partner to the Director of People & Operations, leading the implementation of agreed operational priorities.
• Coordinate cross-functional operational delivery across Operations, Safeguarding, and Security.
• Deputise for the Director of People & Operations in internal and external forums as appropriate, with delegated authority.

Global safety, security & incident management (focal point)

• Act as Lumos’ organisational focal point for safety, security, and travel risk, coordinating risk management frameworks, systems, and oversight across the organisation.
• Work closely with, and oversee the delivery of, Lumos’ global safety and security consultant(s), ensuring clear scope, quality outputs, and effective follow-through.
• Monitor safety and security incidents across the organisation, ensuring appropriate recording, escalation, follow-up, and learning.
• Coordinate incident response in line with agreed protocols, working closely with country teams and external security specialists.
• Lead lessons-learned processes following incidents and ensure recommendations are embedded into systems, guidance, and practice.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of safety and security standards across country offices and partners.

Safeguarding & PSEA (operational oversight)

• Provide operational oversight and coordination of safeguarding and PSEA frameworks, working closely with specialist safeguarding focal points, leads, and consultants while the recruitment and scoping of a Global Safeguarding Lead is planned across 2026.
• Monitor implementation of safeguarding and PSEA standards, policies, and training across country offices and partners.
• Support incident tracking, information management, and follow-up actions, ensuring confidentiality, proportionality, and appropriate escalation.
• Contribute to organisational learning and continuous improvement in safeguarding practice.

Risk management, contingency & assurance frameworks

• Lead the development, implementation, and refinement of operational risk management and risk assessment frameworks across Lumos.
• Ensure consistent approaches to risk identification, mitigation, escalation, and assurance across countries, partners, and programmes.
• Maintain and monitor operational risk registers, ensuring risks are actively reviewed and managed.
• Coordinate comprehensive contingency planning, crisis protocols, and organisational preparedness.
• Support due diligence and risk assessment processes for partners, vendors, programmes, and new geographies.

Programme, MEAL & risk integration

• Work closely with Programme and MEAL teams to embed operational risk, safety, security, and safeguarding considerations into programme design, delivery, and monitoring.
• Support the development of proportionate, decision-useful KPIs related to operational risk, duty of care, safety, security, and safeguarding.
• Strengthen alignment between operational risk management and programme assurance and learning processes.

Operational systems, policy tracking & insurance

• Lead the development and improvement of operational systems, trackers, workflow,s and dashboards to strengthen consistency, quality assurance, and organisational insight.
• Maintain and oversee policy trackers across Operations, Safeguarding, and Security, ensuring review cycles, ownership, and implementation are monitored.
• Develop operational reporting, audit, and monitoring mechanisms that complement existing MEAL, programme, and governance systems.
• Support audits and internal reviews by maintaining clear documentation and evidence.
• Ensure strong information management and data protection practices are embedded.
• Oversee coordination of Lumos’ global insurance arrangements (e.g., travel, medical, liability), including renewals, compliance tracking, and liaison with brokers and insurers, under the direction of the Director of People & Operations.

Country office & partner capability building

• Work closely with Country Directors, operational focal points, and partners to embed global operational, safeguarding, and safety/security frameworks locally.
• Support capacity building through guidance, tools, training coordination, and structured follow-up.
• Provide practical support and constructive challenge to strengthen compliance, confidence, and consistency.
• Balance global standards with appropriate local adaptation.

Performance insight, reporting & organisational learning

• Develop and maintain dashboards and reporting that provide visibility on operational risk, safety, security, safeguarding, and organisational readiness.
• Provide clear insight to the Director of People & Operations and Executive Team on trends, incidents, risks, and areas for improvement.
• Support organisational learning through analysis of data, incidents, audits, and reviews.

 Project management & continuous improvement

• Lead or coordinate project management for time-bound operational initiatives
• Identify capacity gaps, monitor progress, and escalate risks.
• Translate lessons learned into updated frameworks, tools, and guidance to support continuous improvement.

Profile

The postholder will:

• Build effective, trusted relationships across Lumos, using strong relational skills to influence, support, and challenge constructively without becoming adversarial.
• Steward a strong, proportionate and risk-aware culture, where operational, safety, security and safeguarding risks are understood, named and managed well.
• Strengthen operational systems and frameworks for monitoring, assurance, and learning across risk, safety, security, and safeguarding.
• Develop clear, decision-useful dashboards and reporting that improve visibility of risk, incidents, readiness, and organisational resilience.
• Build confidence and capability across country offices and partners through guidance, coaching, constructive challenge, and follow-up.
• Advise and guide senior leaders and teams with sound judgement, evidence, and insight, supporting timely and well-informed decision-making.
• Embed operational risk, safety, security, and safeguarding considerations into programme design, delivery, and monitoring, while retaining appropriate independence and assurance
• Translate data, incidents, and lessons learned into practical improvements that strengthen systems, readiness, and organisational impact.

Essential experience

• Demonstrable experience operating at a senior level within operations, risk, safeguarding, security, or organisational assurance functions
• Experience coordinating complex, cross-functional workstreams across multiple teams or locations
• Experience providing oversight, assurance, or quality control
• Experience incident response, escalation, and lessons-learned processes
• Experience building or strengthening systems, frameworks, or organisational infrastructure

Desirable experience

• Experience working within or alongside programme delivery teams.
• Experience in international, multi-country or partnership-based organisations.
• Experience overseeing consultants or specialist providers.

Personal characteristics

• Strong alignment with Lumos’ mission, values, and commitment to duty of care.
• Emotionally and relationally confident, able to build trust and rapport across diverse stakeholders.
• Able to influence, support, and challenge constructively.
• Calm, pragmatic, and thoughtful when dealing with risk, incidents, or sensitive issues.
• Sound judgement in identifying, naming, and escalating risk appropriately.
• Collaborative and credible working with senior leaders, country teams, and partners
• Comfortable operating with independence.
• Resilient and adaptable in evolving or ambiguous organisational contexts.
• Curious and committed to learning and continuous improvement.

Safeguarding statement

Lumos recognises that the rights of safety and security are aligned with its core mission for children, families, and communities. Effective and robust safeguarding sits at the heart of our mission and values, and accordingly, Lumos is committed to ensuring the safety and protection of children and adults at risk in all of its work. We expect all staff, associates, and volunteers to share this commitment. Lumos has a zero-tolerance approach towards all forms of abuse, bullying, harassment, and sexual exploitation. Lumos is a member of The Misconduct Disclosure Scheme and will carefully screen all applicants. Offers of employment are subject to checks and suitable references.

All staff and associates must:

• Carry out all duties with an awareness and understanding of Lumos safeguarding and PSEA requirements
• Ensure work complies with all safeguarding and PSEA policies and procedures
• Ensure that their behaviours and actions support the safeguarding of children, young people, and adults at risk as appropriate.

Equality, diversity, and inclusion statement

Lumos is wholly committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and against all forms of discrimination.

We are committed to creating and sustaining a positive working environment that encourages, supports, and gives a voice to all, so that we can best support the children we serve.

We must ensure that all staff are equally valued, included, empowered, and respected across the organisation and in everything we do. Lumos is fundamentally built on diverse, multi-national and multicultural teams.

This is something we cherish as a key strength and an integral part of our identity. Our organisation values and celebrates the diversity, culture, and experience of each member of staff, provides equality of care, and support to everyone.

We pledge to listen carefully, to educate ourselves continually, to promote open dialogue, and to seek out and deal with discrimination and prejudice wherever it occurs in Lumos.

· The deadline for applications is Monday 23rd February, 9:00 am CET ·

Upsall International actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. In recruiting candidates, we seek candidates with the proven skills required, irrespective of race, gender, religion or belief, age, disability, or sexual orientation.

We are an intergovernmental organisation working with Civil Society across a global reach of 51 member countries. Our work advances the interests of Commonwealth Civil Society in areas of equality, participation, and good governance.

The Foundation is guided by a Board of Governors, representing Commonwealth Governments, High Commissioners and Civil Society Leaders. The Board ensures our work reflects the values and aspirations of the Commonwealth.

As our Senior HR Officer, reporting to the Deputy Director-General, you will lead on key HR functions including recruitment, policy development, and HR systems during an exciting transformation as we prepare for our Strategy 2026–2031. This role is central to our commitment to investing in our people and cultivating a vibrant, inclusive organisational culture.

What you will focus on: 

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all HR related queries, ensuring timely, accurate, and solutions-focused responses.

• Lead recruitment and onboarding for all UK-based roles and internships, actively championing the Foundation’s values of equality, diversity, and inclusion.

• Review, enhance, and develop HR policies to ensure alignment with UK employment legislation and best practice standards.

• Oversee and support the full performance management cycle, guiding managers and staff.

• Drive the implementation of innovative HR systems and learning initiatives to improve efficiency and support organisational development. 

What we are looking for: 

• CIPD Level 5 (or equivalent) and a minimum of 2+ years’ HR experience 

• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices 

• Excellent communication and organisational skills 

• Proficiency in HR systems and Microsoft Office 

What We Offer: 

• Salary: £39,800 to £44,000  

• Generous annual leave (almost seven weeks excluding public holidays) 

• 15% of salary payable tax-free at stipulated periods in lieu of a formal superannuation scheme 

• Private health scheme including dental cover 

• Flexible working policy (several days in the office per week) 

• A collaborative and inclusive work environment at Marlborough House, Pall Mall, London 

The Process 

Applicants must declare their right to work in the UK at the time of submission. Any application that fails to do so is unable to be processed.

Applications should include: 

• A comprehensive CV 

• A motivation letter addressing the person specification and competencies 

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date.

Please note, first round interviews will now be held online via video link on Tuesday 27 January 2026. 

Second round interviews will take place in person on Wednesday 4 February 2026. 

Closing date for applications: 

5.00pm GMT Monday 19 January 2026

Location: Office-based (currently Bethnal Green, likely to be Euston from Sept 2026) with some home working.

Salary/job band: £56,463 (for 36 hrs) or PTE

Team: Fundraising & Communications

Contract type: Permanent

Hours: 28-36 hrs per week

Reports to: Director

Line manages: Fundraising co-managers, communications manager

Purpose of role

To plan and oversee QSA’s income generation and communications work. To strategically support the success of QSA as part of the leadership team.

Role overview

This is a linchpin role for QSA. We are looking for a hard-working, experienced and creative fundraiser. Our head of fundraising & communications oversees all of our income generation portfolio, including charitable trusts, public bodies, individual giving, and fundraising events.

Above all, we are looking for a candidate who believes in QSA’s mission and values, who can convey this passion through our fundraising and communications. 

We recognise that the current fundraising climate is challenging. As a charity, we have a sizable and engaged network of supporters and an excellent reputation for delivering innovative services.

The head of fundraising & communications is also responsible for overseeing QSA’s communications output, ensuring we build great relationships and successfully share our impact, stories and expertise across a variety of channels.

This is an exciting opportunity to build up a broad experience base in communications. Our approach to this work is centred in an ethical storytelling mindset. Our work has a national profile and we’re keen to maintain our reputation and our media presence.

Our head of fundraising & communications will also join the leadership team, working closely with the head of finance, the head of services and the director. This is a tight knit group with the purpose of supporting the longer term and strategic work of QSA.

You will be welcomed into a wider team at QSA that is enthusiastic, expert, and highly committed to social justice. We are proud of our ability to collaborate successfully and to celebrate one another’s success.

About Quaker Social Action (QSA)

Quaker Social Action’s mission is twofold. We enable people on low incomes to seek solutions to the issues affecting their lives. We listen and respond to the needs of communities and run practical, sustainable and collaborative projects.

Secondly, we share our learning where we see the potential to bring benefit to communities outside of our own – by running professional training, and by speaking truth to power to seek structural change.

Our services include crisis support for those unable to afford funerals; practical support for people experiencing homelessness, such as a mobile library and a community kitchen space; and free mindfulness and wellbeing programmes.

QSA has a rich 150-year history with roots in the Quaker movement. Our work is still guided by Quaker values like Truth and Justice, and we are proud of our place within the Quaker community. At the same time, there is nothing religious about our work: our services, jobs and volunteering roles are open to all.

“The advice and support was beyond beneficial. As a family we were just above the threshold for getting any financial support and at a very difficult time already, money worries was the last thing we needed.”   

- Down to Earth funeral costs helpline caller

Duties & responsibilities

Income generation

1. To design and develop a fundraising strategy for QSA, incorporating a wide range of approaches, including statutory sources, charitable trusts, individual donations, legacies, earned income from training, and event fundraising.
2. To set clear targets based on previous trends, and realistic aspirations for growth.
3. To ensure all fundraising activity sits within the required legislative framework and complies with best practice, especially regarding donor consent.
4. To ensure accurate financial information is presented within fundraising materials.
5. To ensure that QSA fundraising applications are supported by up-to-date evidence of need, gained from relevant research and policy developments.
6. To ensure that QSA fundraising applications are supported by up-to-date evidence of impact, gained from internal monitoring systems.
7. To identify and lead major funding applications.
8. To build strong and warm relationships with funders and donors of QSA.
9. To ensure QSA is compliant with all grants and contracts and provides accurate and timely monitoring reports back to funders.
10. To ensure that project teams are aware of funders supporting their work and are clear what targets or commitments are in place with these funders, including reporting requirements.

Communications, marketing, media, brand, digital

1. To design and develop a communications and marketing strategy for QSA, incorporating a wide range of approaches across a number of appropriate channels and platforms.
2. To understand best practice in charity communications and marketing and use this to promote the work of QSA.
3. To manage QSA’s approach to reputational risk through our communications output.
4. To oversee the development of the content, structure and key messages of QSA’s online communications channels; specifically our website, email marketing and varied social media platforms.
5. To oversee the digital marketing development of QSA, ensuring we have clear systems and protocols to analyse, track, measure and review our output.
6. To understand the benefit of and risks of using AI in our fundraising and comms output and to be part of the strategic leadership around emerging best practice.  
7. To oversee diverse and evolving ways to communicate, using podcasts, videos, data, photos as well as high quality copy.
8. To oversee media relations and protocols for media engagement for QSA.
9. To develop proactive and strategic communications responses very quickly or under pressure to manage situations of risk or opportunity for QSA.
10. To oversee and develop the QSA brand, ensuring it communicates our core purpose and is consistent with our values.
11. To oversee our duty of care to our participants who share their stories, ensuring we approach this with due care, sensitivity and respect for their autonomy, and that we have sufficient safeguards in place to be attentive to their wellbeing.

Leadership

1. To work collaboratively with the leadership team to support the strategic development of QSA. To provide materials that support QSA’s trustees to undertake their governance tasks.
2. To work alongside the head of finance to provide accurate and timely quarterly reports for the trustees’ finance & fundraising committee.
3. With the head of finance, to be responsible for regular reconciliation of finance and fundraising records and for annual audit processes.
4. To work alongside leadership colleagues in all operational matters. To offer ideas for service development, to identify resource needs, and to share strategies to support team wellbeing.  

Organisational requirements

1. To work within, and actively promote, the policies and procedures of QSA.
2. Any other duties as appropriate to the role, as agreed by the QSA director. 

“I feel the service from these marvellous book fans and their very committed, caring staff are an essential…I use them twice a week every week. Please may they continue.”   

- Visitor to Turn a Corner mobile library for people experiencing homelessness.

Person specification

Experience

1. Significant experience of charity fundraising from a wide range of sources, especially charitable trusts and individual donors. 
2. Experience of communications activities/digital development is highly desirable.

Skills

1. Ability to write creative and engaging copy for a range of different audiences.
2. Ability to build excellent collaborative working relationships with a wide range of people; including within the close-knit QSA team, external partners, funders and QSA supporters. 

Knowledge

1. Knowledge of differing funding streams suitable for an anti-poverty charity – i.e. trusts, statutory sources, corporate support, individuals, legacies.
2. Knowledge of a range of communications channels and platforms and of the best ways for a charity to utilise these.
3. Knowledge of technology, including AI, as a way of furthering reach and impact. 

Personal Qualities

1. Exceptional ability to prioritise workload and accurately deliver work to deadline.
2. Demonstrates inner resilience, and ambition to deliver work of the highest standard.
3. Ability to be flexible and have a ‘hands-on’ attitude when required.
4. Commitment to and understanding of the role of equity, diversity and inclusion, in the workplace and in service provision.
5. A willingness to work within a Quaker ethos, as clarified by the mission of QSA.

Main terms and conditions of employment

1. QSA uses the local government pay scales for salaries. Your salary will be on NJC scale point 41-44, which starts at £56,463 (including London weighting) for a full-time/36 hours post. All appointments are made at bottom of scale. 
2. This is a permanent position.
3. This post can be offered as a role to be worked between four and five days per week, so 28 hours to 36 hours per week. We pride ourselves on our flexible working practices.
4. Leave entitlement for a full-time post is 25 days per year, plus 8 bank holidays, with the leave year running from January to December. This increases by 2 days after 3 years of service and a further 3 days after 5 years of service. QSA closes between Christmas and New Year and days falling within this period are not taken from your leave entitlement.
5. QSA pays an additional 6% of salary into the QSA group personal pension, with a 2% staff contributory element.
6. We have probationary periods of six months and the period of notice is 1 week during the probationary period and 8 weeks on its completion.
7. QSA has a union recognition agreement with Unite although staff are welcome to join any trade union or none.
8. This is a hybrid role. We see the benefits of being in the office with colleagues on a regular basis, and consider 2-3 days per week in person to be ideal for this role.
9. The successful candidate will be required to obtain a basic DBS check. The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act applies.
10.  

“It was what I was looking for. The way they deliver the sessions makes it feel inclusive and non-judgemental. Participating online, the energy felt tranquil.”

- Audrey, online attendee of our This Way Up mindfulness and coaching course

Being a diverse and inclusive organisation is very important to us. We’re particularly focused on three elements of this: lived experience of poverty; race & heritage; and disability.  We actively encourage applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.

We hope that you find this job pack and our recruitment process clear and welcoming. Please let us know if this is not the case. We want to do recruitment well and feedback really helps.

Thank you for your interest in this role.

Location: Homebased or Southwest Area Office, BS3 2NS

Contract:  Part time, two days/14 hours per week, fixed term until 31 December 2026

Salary: £10,600 per annum, pro rata (£26,500 full time equivalent)

Closing Date: 18 January 2026

Interview: w/c 26 January 2026

Are you a Training Support Officer looking for a new opportunity?

The Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC) is the leading maritime charity for youth development and lifelong learning. We are a vibrant and growing charity inspiring young people to achieve their potential through challenge and nautical adventure and enabling seafarers and maritime professionals to realise their potential through learning and career development. Working with our employees, cadets, and volunteers, we have built a strong vision and five-year Future Ready strategy to meet the growing demand for what we provide, both for young people, seafarers and maritime professionals – and the thousands who aspire to be the sea cadets and marine professionals of the future. It is also about equipping them to achieve their potential and thrive in a rapidly changing world, while growing our charity to benefit even more people – including those from under-represented or marginalised groups.

We are currently looking for a Training Support Officer to join our team.

About the role

This role provides tactical and targeted support to our District teams as we seek to enable our volunteers to deliver training to both cadets and volunteers in line with the Sea Cadets Learning Strategy.  This post is responsible for supporting the delivery of the district training, including Royal Marine Cadet (RMC) training activity at Troop level. The work location can be flexible (home or office-based) requiring regular evening and weekend working supporting our volunteers by attending virtual meetings and delivering online training.

Responsibilities

• To provide functional support to our area Training Managers and District and RMC Troop Teams, ensure the district training plans are delivered, amended as necessary throughout the year, to the training plan and in line with identified training needed to best support the delivery of the Sea Cadet Experience.
• To support specific District Teams including the District Training Officer (DTO), District Recreational Officer/ Deputy District Officer (DRO/DDO), District Staff Officers (DSO), and RMC Troop Commanders (Trp Cdr) identified as requiring support under our change management process.
• To work closely with all District Officers to increase the number of certificated, current and competent instructors, and develop the capability and capacity of District Instructors to deliver training to cadets and volunteers across all Districts.
• To support the ATOs/DTOs/RMC Troops in all training matters (including uniformed and unit management teams) with a specific focus on Districts/Troops that need support.
• Support our Programmes and Virtual Training Manager with the co-ordination the of delivery of appropriate MSSC and other approved training packages (including BTEC, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award) appropriate to the age and experience of cadets across the organisation.
• Work under the leadership of our Assistant Director Sea Cadet Learning monitor performance against set targets set by the National Support Centre to ensure equitable access for cadets and adults to the Sea Cadet Experience.

Requirements

• • Experience in working with youth groups and awareness and understanding on the challenges young people face.
  • Experience in coordinating and supporting a programme of training activity.
  • Experience in coaching and mentoring volunteers.
  • Experience of drawing data to create support plans for delivery of activity.
  • Experienced trainer with the ability to deliver engaging and impactful training.

Benefits

• • 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata for part time employees, increasing with length of service
  • Hybrid working for many roles
  • Volunteering Leave
  • Life assurance (4x salary)
  • Private medical insurance
  • Generous pension (employer contribution up to 10%)
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Access to the Marine Society Digital Library
  • Wellbeing portal and EAP with 121 counselling
  • Employee development: We are investing in our employees' development and have an annual calendar of learning and development opportunities, designed to support employees to develop into their roles and stretch them to achieve their full potential.

Additional Information

MSSC positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates from all backgrounds. Equity, diversity, and inclusion really matters to us, so we can best serve our beneficiaries from every community. We work to ensure a fair and consistent recruitment process and aim to be a charity where diversity of experience, identity and skills are valued and welcomed. MSSC is an equal opportunities employer.

We recognise our responsibilities to safeguard and protect the young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We do all we can to promote their health, safety and wellbeing, and we expect our staff to share this commitment and work in line with safeguarding policy, the MSSC’s values and ethos of inclusivity. We adhere to safer recruitment practices and therefore employment is subject to detailed pre-employment checks for successful candidates, including references and criminal disclosure checks and the completion of a disclosure questionnaire. 

All successful applicants are required to attend safeguarding training and undergo pre-employment checks including a criminal record check.

Job Title:                                                   Head of Policy & Campaigns

Grade and Salary:                                     Team lead - £56,000 to £60,000 (depending on experience)

Reporting To:                                             Director

Number of direct reports:                           Three (currently)

Location:                                                    Brighton/Hybrid (At least two days per week in Brighton Office)

Contract:                                                  Full time, permanent (35 hours a week)

Travel Requirements:                                The post involves some UK travel and may include occasional travel to Europe.

Background

Pesticide Action Network UK (PAN UK) is the only charity in the UK focused solely on tackling the problems caused by pesticides and promoting safe and sustainable alternatives in agriculture, urban areas, homes and gardens. It is an independent, non-profit organisation, which works nationally and internationally to eliminate the use of the most hazardous pesticides, reduce dependence on pesticides overall, and to increase the adoption of sustainable alternatives to chemical pest control.

Our Head of Policy & Campaigns leads our work in the UK which aims to better protect both the environment and human health from pesticide harms. Through policy work, lobbying, research, media and strategic communications, we aim to influence a range of decision makers, from the UK government and devolved administrations to local councils and the country’s biggest supermarkets. The role also includes working alongside PAN UK’s Director to secure funding to cover the UK team’s salaries, overheads and activities. It is an incredibly varied role, involving everything from leading on strategy development for the UK team while also being intricately involved in writing and editing publications and executing other activities such as events and mobilising the public.

The Head of Policy & Campaigns is part of PAN UK’s Senior Management Team (along with our Director, Head of Finance and Governance and Head of International Programmes) which sets the direction of the organisation and ensures it is well-managed and delivering on our mission. 

Specific responsibilities

1.       Advocacy, policy and campaigning

• Lead the UK team in developing advocacy strategies, and fully utilising opportunities to make progress towards achieving PAN UK’s mission.

• Conduct high quality research and analysis aimed at influencing decision makers. Ensure it is presented in a way which is both technically accurate and compelling.

• Develop and/or maintain expertise in pesticide policy with the aim of being able to represent PAN UK credibly in a range of external fora.

• Build relationships with a wide range of decision makers including government ministers and civil servants, parliamentarians, devolved administrations, local councils and supermarkets.

• Ensure that the organisation’s policy positions on UK pesticide issues are clear, well thought out and will lead to positive change.

• Find creative ways to involve the UK public in PAN UK’s work, including enabling members of the public to contact decision makers directly.

2.       Communications

• Secure media coverage for PAN UK outputs, including writing press releases and liaising with journalists. Provide written quotes for media outlets and give interviews for radio and TV.

• Write materials including policy reports, political briefings and public-facing communications such as blogs and supporter emails. Edit and sign off all outputs from the UK team, ensuring they are both well-written and accurate.

• Conduct public speaking at a range of events, from high-profile events in parliament to community gatherings (and everything in between!).

• Work closely with PAN UK’s Communications Manager to provide content for the organisation’s website and social media channels. Support the Communications Manager in their broader work which includes raising PAN UK’s public profile and leading on individual giving.

3.       Fundraising and financial management

(Please note that PAN UK does not employ fundraisers).

• Raise sufficient funds to cover the UK team’s salaries, activity costs and contribution to organisational overheads.

• Contribute to efforts to raise core funds, which are led by PAN UK’s Director.

• Identify and build relationships with new funders, particularly trusts and foundations, with the aim of securing funding.

• Maintain excellent relationships with existing funders, making sure to meet reporting deadlines.

• Follow PAN UK protocols to ensure that the UK team’s finances are well-managed.

 4.     Leadership and strategy

• Manage a high-performing team, leading on strategy development and implementation and ensuring that the team runs effectively.

• Line manage the staff of the UK team, running regular 121s, annual appraisals and generally making sure they are happy and productive.

5.       Contributing to the organisation

• Contribute to the effective and smooth running of the organisation through membership of the Senior Management Team.

• Report to the PAN UK Board of Trustees as and when required.

• Other duties as may reasonably be requested by the Director and commensurate with the post.

Person specification

Essential

• At least eight years’ advocacy experience, including experience of designing, developing and implementing both policy work and public campaigns.

• Experience of developing, implementing and reviewing strategies designed to create change. 

• Excellent writing and editing skills and experience of producing both technical and public-facing materials. Exceptional attention to detail and a personal commitment to accuracy.

• An understanding of the political context, actors, and processes relating to key policy areas that intersect with pesticides such as food, farming, environment and/or health.

• Experience lobbying decision makers and knowledge of how the UK political system works.

• Demonstrable experience of preparing successful funding applications and building relationships with funders.

• Experience of managing, leading and motivating staff.

• Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice.

• Proven ability to work on own initiative, meeting objectives and tight deadlines under pressure.

• The right to work in the UK.

 Desirable

• Knowledge of problems and solutions associated with pesticides and/or other chemicals. 

• Experience working in sectors related to pesticides including environment, health and/or social justice. 

• Relevant degree in a related discipline (science or social science).

• Experience of dealing with the media and acting as a spokesperson.

• Experience in managing project budgets.

• Knowledge of UK libel laws.