Director of development jobs

Do you have a passion for community development and sustainable change? Do you want to play a key role in strengthening partnerships that bring hope and practical support to communities facing poverty and vulnerability? Join BMS World Mission as our Development Lead.

As Development Lead, you will support partners and mission workers delivering community development programmes and essential services in some of the world’s most challenging contexts. Your work will help strengthen sustainable programmes, build partner capacity, and support communities to flourish with dignity and hope.

Working as part of the HOPE for the World team, you will collaborate closely with colleagues, partners and mission workers to support effective programme delivery, coordination, monitoring and learning. You will help nurture strong relationships, encourage good practice, and contribute to programmes that reflect BMS’ Christian mission and values.

We are looking for someone with strong programme coordination and relationship management skills, experience working cross-culturally, and a genuine passion for supporting vulnerable communities. You will be aligned with BMS’ Christian vision and values, committed to collaborative working, and motivated to keep learning and growing.

If you want your work to make a lasting difference through global mission and development, we would love to hear from you.

Key Information
Location: Didcot, Oxfordshire: This role can be office-based or hybrid. We are happy to appoint a candidate who lives too far from Didcot to attend the office regularly, if they are able to be flexible to come to Didcot as required.The cost of travel to BMS Didcot whether on a regular basis or infrequently, would be borne by the employee. 
Hours: 17.5 hrs. per week/part time
Employment type: 2 years fixed term contract
Salary: £22,992.50 pro rata of £45,985 FTE
Closing date: 3rd June 2026
Interview date: Friday 12 June 2026

Chair (Non-Executive) – Board of Directors

South West Wildlife Fundraising Ltd (‘SWWFL’)

Remuneration: £12,500 per annum (plus expenses)
Location: Home-based, with some travel across the South West
Time commitment: Approximately 4 days per month

Do you care about the work of the Wildlife Trusts and want to make a real difference to the future of our treasured wildlife?

About the role

SWWFL, a wholly-owned trading subsidiary of 8 regional Wildlife Trusts, is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to take on the role of Non-Executive Chair of the Board. This is a pivotal leadership position, providing direction to the Board of Directors, supporting the Chief Executive Officer, and strengthening relationships with our owning Wildlife Trusts and partnerships with client Trusts.

You will also serve as a Company Director of SWWFL, sharing responsibility for the oversight, stewardship, and long-term success of the organisation.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a purpose-driven organisation supporting the work of The Wildlife Trusts across the extended South West.

Key responsibilities

As Chair, you will:

· Lead the Board of Directors, ensuring effective governance, decision-making and accountability

· Work closely with the CEO, providing both support and constructive challenge

· Ensure strong strategic alignment between SWWFL and its owning Wildlife Trusts and client Wildlife Trusts

· Oversee financial performance, risk management and regulatory compliance

· Chair Board meetings and ensure effective participation from all Directors

· Act as an ambassador for SWWFL with external stakeholders and partner Wildlife Trusts

· Lead the annual appraisal and development of the CEO

Governance and Director responsibilities

In addition to Chair duties, the postholder will fulfil the responsibilities of a SWWFL Company Director, including:

· Acting in accordance with the SWWFL Memorandum & Articles of Association and Members’ Agreement

· Exercising independent judgement, care and diligence

· Ensuring robust governance, financial oversight and risk management

· Supporting long-term sustainable success of the business

Terms of appointment

· The Chair is appointed by majority vote of the Board

· Term: normally 3 years, may be renewed, with annual performance review by the Board and owning Trusts

· The Chair role is remunerated, via a contracting agreement, in recognition of additional responsibilities

· The person appointed must, therefore, have appropriate and genuine self-employed status (or equivalent) to receive payment

· Where a Trustee of an owning Wildlife Trust is appointed, they cannot receive remuneration in line with SWWFL governance arrangements

· All Directors (including the Chair in their Director capacity) are subject to SWWFL governance requirements

About you

We are looking for someone who brings:

Experience

· Significant Board-level experience

· Proven experience of chairing meetings

· Senior strategic leadership experience (ideally in a commercial environment)

· Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building experience

Skills & knowledge

· Strong understanding of governance and regulatory requirements

· High level of financial literacy

· Commercial awareness

· Experience in risk management and organisational oversight

Personal qualities

· Strategic, decisive and emotionally intelligent

· Collaborative and diplomatic, with strong interpersonal skills

· Confident in an ambassadorial role

· Committed to the mission of The Wildlife Trusts

Time commitment

The Chair is expected to commit around 4 days per month, including:

· Regular meetings with the CEO and Finance Manager

· 6 Board and Stakeholder meetings annually

· 4 Finance & Remuneration Committee meetings

· Meetings with auditors and owning Trust CEOs

Some travel across the South West will be required, although many meetings are held remotely.

Eligibility

The Chair does not need to be an employee of an owning Wildlife Trust. However, they do need to be a member of their local Wildlife Trust, and they will operate within a Board that includes Directors who are drawn from the owning Trusts:

Avon, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Hampshire & Isle of Wight, Somerset, Wiltshire, and Worcestershire Wildlife Trusts.

Why join us?

This is a unique opportunity to play a key leadership role in a values-driven organisation, helping to support vital conservation work across the South West and beyond.

How to apply

An application pack and form can be downloaded from the SWWFL website. A copy of your CV, plus the application form detailing your skills and experience relevant to this role, must be included in your application.

The deadline for applications is 7th June 2026.

Interviews will take place on 30th June 2026 at Avon Wildlife Trust, Bristol. 

Scottish Opera is Scotland’s national opera company and the country’s largest performing arts organisation. Founded in 1962 to make opera accessible to all, the company presents productions of international acclaim, from early works to world premieres. Performances are designed to be inclusive, with supertitles, audio-described and dementia-friendly shows, free and discounted tickets for under-26s, refugees, asylum seekers and schools, and touring productions reaching communities across Scotland.

The charity has developed their fundraising strategy and identified corporate partnerships as clear area of growth and potential. As a result they are bringing in this brand-new role to provide dedicated capacity and focus. The post holder will proactively develop the corporate pipeline, securing new partners and provide excellent account management to existing, valued partners.

It is an exciting time to join Scottish Opera. They have invested in the fundraising team, there is organisation-wide support for fundraising, and many opportunities to engage potential partners across their annual programme.

This role might be for you if have broader fundraising experience, and are looking to specialise in corporate fundraising, are an experienced corporate fundraiser looking to step up to a manager level role.

Working within an arts and culture charity would be helpful for the candidate to have but isn't essential.

Application notes 

Please download the Candidate Info Pack provided for further information about the role, timelines and next steps.

To progress your application, please contact THINK Recruitmen to organise an informal screening call. Please note, we cannot shortlist candidates who have not had a screening call so please allow enough time to have a call before the closing date.

Closing date for applications: Midnight Tuesday 19th May 

Interviews are planned for 27th and 28th May (Stage 1) and 2nd and 3rd June (Stage 2) 

Assistant Finance Director (12–18 month FTC to begin)
A leading Housing Association in the area

A well-established and forward-thinking Housing Association is seeking an Assistant Finance Director to join on a 12–18 month contract initially. Reporting directly to the CFO, this position offers a unique opportunity to operate as the number two in finance, playing a key role in both strategic leadership and operational delivery.

The organisation provides a broad range of general and supported housing and is recognised for its commitment to delivering high-quality services and positive outcomes for its communities.

This role is ideally suited to a senior finance professional with Housing sector experience who is looking to step into a high-impact leadership role, driving improvements across people, processes, and financial insight.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the finance function, acting as deputy to the CFO
• Oversee financial and management accounting, ensuring robust reporting and controls
• Support financial planning, treasury activities, and development finance
• Drive a high-quality business partnering function across the organisation
• Lead on improving financial processes, systems, and internal controls
• Support the Executive team on business planning, including scenario modelling and stress testing

Requirements

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
• Proven experience within a Housing Association or Registered Provider
• Strong leadership capability, with experience managing and developing teams
• Ability to operate at a strategic level and influence senior stakeholders
• Excellent technical finance skills combined with a commercial, business-partnering mindset
• Strong analytical and systems capability, with confident communication skills

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious finance leader looking to step into a director level role within a purpose-driven organisation.

Ready to define what “good” looks like and make it real across our services?

Hft has turned a corner. After navigating a period of significant financial and operational challenge, we have delivered a major turnaround, reducing a £17 million deficit, stabilising our workforce, and restoring confidence across every level of the organisation.

Now, with a new and focused Executive Team working closely with our Senior Leadership Teams, clear governance, and a collective understanding of the need to embed sustainable improvement across all areas of the organisation, we are moving from recovery to transformation.

The Opportunity

You will lead the development and delivery of an integrated, organisation-wide approach to quality, safety, safeguarding and great practice. Your focus will be on ensuring people are supported to live safe, meaningful and aspirational lives. This role brings together quality assurance, safeguarding, safety and practice into a clear and consistent approach across a complex, national organisation.

You will drive and oversee quality, safety and governance systems that support them. You will maintain clear oversight of performance, risk and compliance, and provide assurance, insight and challenge to the Executive Team and the Board. You will ensure regulatory compliance, safeguarding, and health and safety systems are robust, responsive, and consistently upheld, but, importantly, rooted in the understanding that all of this is to make sure that the people supported have great lives.

Working closely with operational leaders, you will identify underperformance and support improvement. You will use data, audits, incidents, and feedback to generate insights and drive continuous improvement. You will also help shape a shared understanding of what great practice looks like across services.

If you have senior leadership experience across quality, safety, safeguarding and practice within a learning disability charity or social care provider, we would love to hear from you. Please refer to the candidate brief attachment for full details of the role.

Please note: This role is a Home-based position (travel 3 times per month to Bristol/other locations)

What you will bring to succeed in this role

Essential

• Senior leadership experience across quality, safety, safeguarding and practice within a large learning disability charity or social care provider
• Accountable experience of leading operational health and safety within a multi-site, CQC regulated care environment
• Ability to lead and develop high-performing teams
• Experience of providing clear assurance and reporting on health and safety performance, risks and compliance to senior leadership and/or Board
• Communication and influencing skills, with the ability to work across organisational boundaries
• Experience embedding co-production and lived experience into organisational approaches
• Highly developed analytical skills and ability to use data to drive decisions
• Confident in leading change, improvement and cultural development

Selection Process

We will be shortlisting applications on an ongoing basis. If your application is shortlisted, we will invite you to a pre-screening interview with a member of the senior hiring team. If you are successful at this stage, the final assessment process will include a competency-based interview, a presentation, and the opportunity to meet with key stakeholders to get to know the team and Hft.

As part of our recruitment process, we are proud to include the voices of people with learning disabilities. You will meet them throughout the process, and they will play a key role in the final stages of selection. Their perspective shapes how we lead, listen and make decisions at Hft.

We anticipate the following timelines:

• Closing date: 9 June 2026
• Pre-screening interviews: 12, 15 or 16 June 2026
• Final assessment: 30 June 2026

We may close this role early if we receive a high volume of applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

We are committed to recruiting people from diverse backgrounds and believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce helps us better support the people we work with to live their best lives. If there is anything we can do to support you to do your best during the application and selection process, please contact our recruitment team at Hft.

We are seeking a highly organised and detail-oriented Finance and Operations Manager to oversee our financial operations and ensure the effective management of our resources. This role is central to maintaining our financial health and supporting our strategic goals. You will ensure all financial processes are accurate, compliant, and efficient. You will work closely with our Director to ensure all financial processes are accurate, compliant, and efficient. 

KEY RESPONSIBILTIES INCLUDE: 

Invoicing and Payments 

Cash and Monitoring 

• Update monthly actuals and track variances within the cashflow. 
• Support project teams with maintaining and reporting on budgets in line with funder requirements.
• Contribute to the development of budgets for fundraising proposals.
• Continuously review financial systems to ensure efficiency and best practice

Bookkeeping 

• Carry out weekly and monthly bookkeeping tasks, including journal entries in QuickBooks and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Support the production of quarterly management accounts.
• Prepare ad-hoc financial reports and analysis as required.
• Oversee Gift Aid claims and processes.

Independent Examination, Annual Report and Accounts 

• Prepared and organised all documentation for the Independent Examination, ensuring compliance with statutory and Charity Commission requirements. 

• Supporting the Director in responding to examiner enquiries and year-end processes. 

• Reviewing financial records, reconciled balances, and drafted sections of the Annual Report. 

• Coordinating with internal teams and external advisors and assisting with implementing examiner recommendations. 

The Operations and Development Manager is a senior leadership role at AALT, responsible for ensuring the organisation’s operational effectiveness, financial stability, and long-term sustainability.

They will join at a pivotal and exciting moment for the organisation, as AALT prepares to open the Anti-Apartheid Legacy Centre (AALC) at Penton Street and transition into a newly restored and developed building, establishing operations and embedding a resilient and ambitious model for the future.

Working in close collaboration with the Director, the postholder will have strategic oversight of finance, HR, governance, fundraising, and day-to-day operations, while also taking direct responsibility for delivering key operational, financial, and income-generating activity.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring both strategic oversight and active delivery. The postholder will lead on financial and operational management, co-develop and drive fundraising activity, and ensure that the organisation’s systems, processes, and resources are robust, effective, and fit for purpose.

The role will also take responsibility for venue management during the early stages of the AALC opening, before transitioning to line management of dedicated venue staff as the organisation grows.

Senior Finance Manager 

Suzy Lamplugh Trust 

Location: Hybrid (40% office-based London Vauxhall) 
Hours: Full-time (35 hours) 

Term: Permanent 
Salary: £42,654
Start:: ASAP 

As the Suzy Lamplugh Trust approaches its 40th anniversary year, we are entering an exciting period of growth, development and transformation. We are looking for an experienced, proactive and commercially aware Senior Finance Manager to strengthen our finance function and help support the next phase of the organisation’s journey. 

About the role 

This is a pivotal role within the Trust. You will work closely with senior leadership to provide high-quality management information and financial oversight that supports informed decision-making across the organisation. 

We are looking for an experienced and proactive Senior Finance Manager to lead the day-to-day finance operations of the Trust and play a central role in the production of high-quality management information that supports strategic and operational decision-making. 

The Trust operates across both charitable and commercial income streams, including consultancy and training services, therefore experience across both charity finance and corporate/commercial finance environments is highly desirable. 

This role would suit someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, whilst improving systems and processes that support both, charity-funded and commercial activity. 

The Senior Finance Manager will lead the operational management of the finance function, ensuring robust financial controls, effective reporting and efficient day-to-day financial operations across the organisation. 

Reporting to the Director of Finance, HR and Governance, the role has significant responsibility for: 

• Management accounts and reporting 

• Budgeting and forecasting 

• Cashflow oversight 

• Audit and compliance 

• Payroll oversight 

• Financial controls and process improvement 

• Commercial and operational financial analysis 

• Management of the finance team 

Additional information 

• This is not a senior leadership role and the successful candidate will report to the Director of Finance, HR and Governance.

• This role is hybrid; however, full-time attendance at our London office will be required during the first three months to support induction and integration into the organisation. 

Help shape financial decision-making at one of the UK’s leading universities

King’s is a large, complex and internationally engaged university with ambitious plans for the years ahead. We are looking for an experienced finance leader to join us as Deputy Director of Finance Business Partnering (Operations), playing a key role in strengthening financial performance, decision-making and long-term sustainability across our Professional Services directorates.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who wants to make a real impact. You will be part of our Financial Strategy, Planning and Performance function, helping King’s maintain the sustainable financial foundation needed to support our education, research and wider contribution to society.

The role

Reporting to the Director of Finance Business Partnering (Operations), you will lead high-quality finance business partnering services across a range of Professional Services areas, including Student Services, IT, Philanthropy and Alumni, Executive portfolios and other directorates.

You will directly line manage a team of Finance Business Partners and their Management Accountant teams, with overall responsibility for a team of around eight people, including three direct reports. You will also play a substantial leadership role across the wider Operations Finance Business Partnering team, supporting a team of around 19 colleagues.

This is a hands-on senior leadership role. You will work closely with senior stakeholders, providing expert advice, constructive challenge, analysis and timely decision support. You will help ensure financial plans are robust, risks and opportunities are understood, and resources are aligned with King’s strategic priorities.

What you will be doing

You will model excellent finance business partnering, using high-quality data and insight to support leaders across King’s Professional Services and Operations directorates. You will help stakeholders understand financial performance, make evidence-based decisions and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, value for money and long-term financial resilience.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading the delivery of finance business partnering across multiple Professional Services areas.
• Providing strategic financial advice, scenario modelling and long-term forecasting to support decision-making.
• Leading and supporting annual planning, monthly reporting, quarterly updates and forecasting processes.
• Developing clear, robust reporting and commentary for senior stakeholders, including Executive-level audiences.
• Supporting business cases, complex financial issues and cross-cutting initiatives.
• Ensuring income and expenditure are recorded correctly and that management accounts provide meaningful insight.
• Promoting compliance with financial policies, controls, data protection and secure use of financial information.
• Championing improvements to reporting, tools, dashboards, templates and processes.
• Supporting the Director in leading the Operations Finance Business Partnering team, including culture, priorities, development and ways of working.
• Deputising for the Director when required.

About you

We are looking for a qualified accountant with significant experience of leading financial advice, planning, forecasting and reporting services in a large, complex organisation.

You will bring strong leadership skills, a service-focused approach and the ability to develop high-performing teams. You will be comfortable operating in complex stakeholder environments, managing competing priorities and influencing senior leaders with clarity, confidence and credibility.

You will be someone who can combine technical financial expertise with sound judgement, strong relationship-building skills and a commitment to continuous improvement.

You will need to bring

• A professional accountancy qualification.
• Experience of leading financial support, advice or business partnering services relevant to this role.
• Strong leadership skills, including the ability to manage and develop professional staff.
• Experience of leading short- and long-term planning, forecasting and reporting processes.
• The ability to deliver change and financial improvement across a finance function and wider organisation.
• Resilience and the ability to manage multiple objectives across teams and complex stakeholder groups.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present clearly to senior stakeholders and committees.
• Strong numeracy and IT skills, including Excel and experience using corporate finance and reporting systems.

A degree-level qualification and experience of working in or with the university sector would be advantageous, but are not essential.

Why join King’s?

This role offers the chance to help shape a step change in finance business partnering at King’s. You will be joining at a time when the team is embedding a refreshed business partnering offer, improving reporting and forecasting tools, strengthening stakeholder support and building financial capability across the organisation.

You will have the opportunity to work on high-profile priorities, influence senior decision-making and contribute to financial sustainability across a university with a powerful mission in education, research and service to society.

How to apply

To apply, please send your CV by 25th May 2026. 

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Phil Southern at Ivy Rock Partners. 

At Samaritans, our vision is that fewer people die by suicide. Every day, our volunteers and staff provide life-saving emotional support to people in distress, and behind that work is a culture built on compassion, inclusion, learning and human connection.

We are looking for an experienced and values-led leader to join us as our new Assistant Director of Organisational Development & Learning within our People and Culture Directorate.

This is a rare opportunity to shape how learning, leadership and organisational capability enable one of the UK and Ireland’s most respected charities to deliver its mission.

You will lead the development of an ambitious organisation-wide learning and organisational development strategy, ensuring our 23,000 volunteers and 300 staff members, have the skills, confidence and support needed to deliver safe, effective and compassionate services.

About the role

Reporting to the Executive Director of People & Culture, you will lead a talented team responsible for organisational development, leadership capability, learning and development, delivery of training through our training school and external learning provision through STEP, our commercial training offer.

Samaritans is on an ambitious journey of change, we are evolving how we work, strengthening collaboration across the organisation to meet growing need for our life-saving listening services.

You could not be joining us at a more pivotal time and the capability of our people has never been more important. Working closely with senior leaders across the organisation, you will:

• Lead the development and delivery of innovative, inclusive and high-quality learning solutions
• Shape and embed leadership capability frameworks that support a positive, accountable and compassionate culture
• Support organisational transformation and change through strong organisational development expertise
• Drive strategic approaches to learning, talent and succession planning
• Partner with leaders to build a high-performing and psychologically safe learning culture
• Ensure our learning approaches reflect best practice, accessibility and equity, diversity and inclusion principles
• Support the development of our geographically dispersed volunteer and staff teams
• Bring external insight, thought leadership and innovation into the organisation

You will also play an active role as part of our Senior Leadership Group and People and Culture Senior Leadership Team, contributing beyond your specialist area to help deliver our wider organisational strategy and mission.

About you

You are an experienced organisational development, learning or people capability leader with a strong track record of delivering strategic cultural and organisational change.

Importantly, you are someone who leads with empathy, curiosity and integrity. You understand that high performance and compassion go hand in hand, and you are passionate about creating environments where people feel supported, empowered and able to grow.

You will bring:

• Significant experience leading organisational development and learning strategy at a senior level
• Expertise in leadership development, capability building and organisational change
• Experience of identifying future capability needs through workforce planning’
• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, including experience working with senior leadership teams
• Experience developing inclusive learning cultures and blended learning solutions
• Knowledge of talent and succession planning approaches
• The ability to inspire and lead geographically dispersed teams, including volunteers
• A collaborative and values-driven leadership style

Experience within the charity or not-for-profit sector would be welcomed, though we also encourage applications from candidates outside the sector who share our values and mission.

Why Samaritans?

At Samaritans, people matter deeply. We know that meaningful impact starts with how we support each other.

We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive and flexible workplace where everyone can thrive. We value diversity of thought, background and lived experience, and we actively encourage applications from people from all communities.

In return, we offer:

• Competitive Salary and Rewards; £73,000 - £75,000 per annum plus Benefits.
• Flexible and hybrid working; Our full time hours are 35 hours per week, but we are committed to flexible working and offer a hybrid approach to working. Due to the nature of our work, some evening and weekend working is required with time off in lieu given.
• Hybrid working: Meeting in person and working collaboratively are things we value. This role is linked to our Ewell (Surrey) office with a blend of home working and option to work out of our London office as required.
• The opportunity to shape learning and organisational capability in a nationally recognised charity
• A supportive and inclusive culture
• Professional development opportunities
• The chance to contribute directly to work that saves lives

Every person at Samaritans plays a role in helping fewer people die by suicide. If you are motivated by purpose, compassion and the opportunity to make a lasting difference, we would love to hear from you.

Full outline in the Job description file here. You can also read more about our change programme (future proofing) here - Our need for change

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

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.

To Apply

Please complete the application questions including those outlined below, and submit your CV, with a brief supporting statement. Please note the following questions have a 300word limit for answers.

1. Please outline your most relevant experience/role that gives you confidence you

could broadly deliver all that’s outlined in the job description?

1. Tell us about a learning and development strategy you have designed and implemented across an organisation or large workforce.
2. Describe a time when you influenced senior leaders or stakeholders to adopt a new approach to leadership, culture, learning or organisational capability.
3. Please describe a significant organisational development, culture change or transformation programme you have led.

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.

Applications close at Midnight Sunday 17th May

Interviews

All applicants will receive notification of the outcome of their application, at the appropriate time.

The interview process will be in two stages, allowing enough time to connect with leaders and explore this great opportunity with candidates.

Interviews will be taking place as outlined;

First stage Interviews: 28th May and 1st June

Second stage interviews to be held at our Ewell Office (Epsom, Surrey) on 3rd and 4th June.

Please hold these dates in diaries if applying.

Friends of the Dales is seeking an outstanding Executive Director to lead our next chapter. We are an independent, dynamic and resilient charity working to protect and enhance the special landscapes, biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Yorkshire Dales, while supporting the wellbeing of local communities and encouraging people from all backgrounds to value, enjoy and protect this remarkable place.

This is an exciting opportunity for a values-driven leader to build on our strong reputation, recent strategic review and ambitious campaigning work. We are looking for someone who can combine strategic vision with hands-on leadership, bringing energy, credibility and expertise to a charity with a proud history and a growing future.

About Friends of the Dales

Friends of the Dales is an independent membership and campaigning charity dedicated to the Yorkshire Dales. We campaign on issues including nature recovery, wildlife, farming, access, housing, transport, climate resilience, landscape management and sustainable rural communities.

Founded in 1981, we are known for our critical and supportive local voice and our collaborative approach to campaigning and influencing policy. We work with partner organisations, local communities, trustees, volunteers and supporters to protect and improve the Dales for future generations.

We also work with the network of National Park Societies and Campaign for National Parks, and we have a strong commitment to widening diversity and inclusion across our charity and the communities we serve.

The Role

The Executive Director will provide strategic leadership, operational management and external representation for the charity. Reporting to the Chair of Trustees, you will be responsible for delivering the Board’s strategic direction and business plan, growing the supporter base, strengthening financial resilience and ensuring our campaigning remains impactful and aligned with our mission and values.

This is a varied and influential role requiring a confident, collaborative and hands-on leader who can balance strategic oversight with day-to-day delivery. You will work closely with trustees, staff, volunteers, members, supporters and external partners to help shape the future of the charity.

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking a candidate with:

● Senior leadership experience or aligned and transferable experience and skills in a charity, membership organisation or similar environment.

● Direct experience or transferable experience of campaigning, influencing, advocacy or policy work.

● Strong organisational leadership and operational management skills.

● Knowledge and experience of fundraising, membership growth, partnership working and charity operations.

● The ability to inspire staff, trustees, volunteers, members and supporters.

● A values-driven approach and a strong understanding of, or connection to, the Yorkshire Dales and the issues affecting it.

Experience in a similar setting may be transferable, and we welcome candidates who can demonstrate the skills, insight and leadership needed to succeed in the role.

Working Arrangements

This is a permanent role, offered as either:

● Part-time: 4 days per week, or.

● Full-time: 37 hours per week.

The salary is £50,000 per annum FTE, with part-time hours paid pro rata.

The role is based at Canal Wharf, Eshton Road, Gargrave, BD23 3PN, with some flexibility around working hours and location by agreement. Regular travel across the Yorkshire Dales and occasional evening and weekend working will be required. Ideally, the successful candidate will live in, or within approximately 30 miles of, the perimeter of the Yorkshire Dales.

We offer:

● 22 days annual leave, rising to 27 days after five years’ service, plus English bank holidays, pro rata for part-time hours.

● Additional paid leave over the Christmas and New Year office closure.

● An enhanced employer pension contribution of 5% via NEST.

Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK, as we are unable to offer sponsorship.

How to Apply

To apply please read the full candidate briefing - available on the Friends of the Dales website - and submit:

● A current CV, including any gaps in employment.

● A supporting statement of no more than 2,000 words, explaining why you wish to apply and how you meet the criteria in the person specification.

● Details of two referees, including one from your current or most recent senior leadership role, with confirmation that you are happy for us to contact them if shortlisted.

● Any dates when you may be unavailable or difficult to contact.

● Any adjustments or accommodations you may require at the interview or presentation stage.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a one-day selection event in the Yorkshire Dales, including a short presentation and panel interview. Full details of the presentation topic and interview questions will be shared in advance.

Recruitment Timetable

● Monday 18 May 2026, 5pm: Closing date.

● Week commencing 25 May 2026: Review of applications and shortlisting.

● Week commencing 15 June 2026: Shortlisted candidates invited to the Yorkshire Dales selection day.

● Week commencing 29 June 2026: Candidates informed of outcome.

Equal Opportunities

Friends of the Dales is committed to building a workforce that reflects the community it serves. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and all sections of the community, and we will respect the privacy of any initial approach or expression of interest, whether formal or informal.

Informal Discussion

For an informal and confidential conversation about the role, please contact Jonathan Riley, Chair of Trustees after reviewing the appointment brief.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

Why work with us?

Working at Impetus means joining an organisation that is serious about impact and serious about people. Our values actively guide how we make decisions, how we work together and how we deliver change.

In the Philanthropy & Partnerships Team, you will:

• Be part of a high-performing and respected fundraising team
• Build meaningful, long-term relationships with thoughtful, impact-driven donors
• Develop your skills across the full fundraising cycle, supported by strong leadership
• Work on some of the charity sector’s most exciting and long-term partnerships
• See a clear connection between your work and improved outcomes for young people

If you are motivated by purpose, enjoy working to a high standard, and want to be part of a team that is ambitious about both impact and excellence, we would be delighted to hear from you.​

Harbi Jama,

Director of Philanthropy & Partnerships

About this role

This role is a 12‑month maternity cover, supporting an important phase of delivery and development within the Philanthropy team. The postholder will work closely with colleagues to maintain momentum in new business activity while contributing to strategic account management and stewardship. 

The Head of Development is a senior role within the Philanthropy Team, with a primary focus on new business development. This includes identifying, cultivating and securing new funding relationships across trusts, foundations, corporates, co‑investment partners and high‑net‑worth individuals. 

Alongside new business delivery, the role also provides strategic account management for a small portfolio of high-value partners, ensuring smooth transitions from acquisition into long term stewardship. 

This role works alongside the Head of Philanthropy, with both roles contributing to the success of the Philanthropy Team. The Head of Philanthropy leads on deep stewardship and retention, while the Head of Development focusses on new income generation and building relationships with new funders and partners. 

The postholder will work closely with the Director of Philanthropy & Partnerships, Philanthropy Directors as well as Senior Research and Insights Manager, contributing specialist expertise, strong delivery and sound judgement, while operating within agreed strategy and governance frameworks.

​Key responsibilities:

New business development

• Support the Director of Philanthropy & Partnerships and Development Director on the development and delivery of the new business plan in line with the fundraising strategy
• Works with the Senior Research and Insights Manager to identify emerging funding trends, opportunities, market opportunities and best practice
• In collaboration with the Development Director and Growth and Insights Director, lead the delivery of agreed cultivation strategies for priority prospects, proactively progressing relationships from qualification through to solicitation and conversion, leveraging senior stakeholders, board members, donor advocates and wider networks
• Develop and deliver compelling cultivation strategies and tailored pitch plans for priority prospects, including designing and building new donor acquisition vehicles (e.g. committees, cultivation events and targeted communications), working collaboratively with colleagues across Impetus
• Lead and support high-level meetings, pitches and negotiations with prospective donors, positioning Impetus as a credible and strategic partner
• Work with trustees, senior leaders and pro bono supporters to leverage networks and secure introductions to new prospects
• Ensure high-quality written and verbal communications with prospective donors

Account management and stewardship 

• Build and maintain professional, long-term relationships within the portfolio, escalating strategic issues or risks promptly.
• Manage a targeted portfolio of high-value donors of six figures and supports on seven figure partnerships, ensuring excellent stewardship, timelyreporting and meaningful engagement
• Act as a relationship lead for selected donors, building trust and ensuring a smooth transition from new business to long-term stewardship
• Own and deliver tailored account plans for assigned donors, with a focus on renewal, upgrade and long-term relationship value
• Oversee the delivery of high-quality donor communications for assigned donors, including reports, impact updates, and engagement opportunities
• Ensure robust portfolio management, including accurate forecasting, pipeline management, and use of CRM systems
• Identify opportunities to deepen relationships through increased giving, multi-year commitments or broader engagement with Impetus’ work
• Works closely with Development Director on supporting Funds i.e. Connect, Skills, Attainment or Engage as needed 
• Supports or leads on committees such as Futures or Real estate 
• Represent Impetus externally with professionalism and credibility

Cross-team working and organisation contribution

• Build and maintain professional, long-term relationships within the portfolio, escalating strategic issues or risks promptly.
• Ensure consistent standards and best practice across account management and donor stewardship
• Collaborate closely with the Head of Philanthropy to ensure seamless handover from acquisition to stewardship and a coherent donor experience.
• Contribute insight from prospecting and market scanning to inform proposition development and strategic planning
• Ensure all activity aligns with Impetus’ gift acceptance, due diligence and ethical fundraising policies
• Champion best practice in prospecting, pipeline management and new business development across the team
• Build a collaborative, inclusive, high quality team culture aligned with Impetus’ values

​Person specification

​Essential​:

• A strong track record of raising six-figure+ philanthropic income from grant-making trusts and foundations, corporate foundations and/or individual donors, including experience with high-net-worth individuals
• Proven ability to lead and deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, stewardship and renewal
• Demonstrated strategic thinking, planning and delivery skills, with the ability to generate ideas, translate them into practical account plans, and execute them effectively
• Excellent research, prospecting and qualification skills, with the judgement to prioritise high-value opportunities
• A proactive, creative and innovative approach to fundraising, with the ability to adapt and develop creative donor centred approaches 
• Experience operating with senior stakeholders, including trustees, board members and other high-level external partners
• Outstanding relationship management skills, with the ability to establish, manage and deepen trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Highly collaborative, contributing positively to team objectives and cross-organisational priorities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate impact and value clearly and persuasively
• Strong financial and portfolio management skills, including the ability to plan, forecast and deliver against income targets and budgets
• Ability to work well under pressure, managing multiple priorities and deadlines effectively
• A clear commitment to Impetus’ mission and values
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

Desirable

• Experience managing and stewarding multi-year, five- to seven-figure partnerships.
• Experience line managing and developing fundraisers or relationship managers.
• Experience working within a charity, foundation, venture philanthropy or intermediary organisation.
• Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce), income forecasting and portfolio reporting.
• Experience supporting or contributing to new business development strategies at a senior level.

​​​About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today: ​​

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment ​

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life. ​​

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.​

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.​

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values​

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.​

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.​

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.​

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.​

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

​​Our employee benefits ​

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.​

You will need to:​

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.​

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.​

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.​

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.​

The deadline for applications is Sunday 17th May 2026, 11:59pm.​

Interviews:​

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 25th May 2026.​

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 1st June 2026.​

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

​Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

Bible Society is on a mission to increase Bible confidence in the Church and change the conversation about the Bible in culture.  We are ambitious to see the Bible ‘translated’ into every part of life and society.

We see a huge mission opportunity in England and Wales and increasingly our attention is focused on growing Bible confidence in the Church and inviting the spiritually open to engage with what the Bible has to say in their own lives.

As Director of Domestic Mission you will be responsible for:

- Leading and implementing programmes to mobilise the domestic Church for Bible mission, and to enable spiritually               open people to discover and engage with the Bible.

- Embedding a mission culture marked by prayerful humility, relational partnership and inter-confessional                                 collaboration.

If you are content with the state of contemporary Christianity in modern society and the place of the Bible in popular culture, then this is not the role for you. On the other hand, if you are provoked and stirred by the confusion, misunderstanding and lack of knowledge about the Bible in society; if you know the transforming power of Scripture to bring us into an encounter with Jesus by the Holy Spirit and change our lives and relationships; and if you want to harness your excellent leadership, relationship-building and missional vision-casting skills to help mobilise a Bible movement in our generation, then we are excited to be talking to you.