CEO

Chief Officer

Citizens Advice Woking (CAW) provides free, independent, and confidential advice and information to the residents of Woking, and anyone who works in the Borough, particularly the most vulnerable, to help with the problems they face.  We are the only organisation locally that can and does address client issues holistically, across areas such as debt, housing and welfare benefits, not just single issues, and this is increasingly important as client problems become more complex.

We are looking for a Senior Manager who will bring both innovation and experience to lead a valued local charity.

Reporting to the Chair of the Trustee Board, the Chief Officer

• Is responsible to the Trustee Board for the management and leadership of Citizens Advice Woking,
• Represents Citizens Advice Woking to funders, partners and stakeholders,
• Ensures the delivery of a high quality, impartial and confidential service, utilising both paid staff and volunteers,
• Is responsible for the continuing funding, planning and financial management of the service,
• Represents the organisation in Woking and contributes to the overall provision of strategic advice services in the borough.

In particular, the priorities for the Chief Officer in 2026/27 will be to:

• Manage CAW’s external relationships with our funders and the Woking community generally, to ensure satisfaction with the delivery of current projects, and their continuation,
• Collaborate closely with the other Surrey LCA Chief Officers to respond to the changing funding landscape. In parallel, continue to identify and deliver local projects for local funders,
• Ensure that suitable alternative premises are secured, and the transition is managed as smoothly as possible,
• Ensure the staff and volunteers are enabled to work effectively, particularly during this period of disruption,

The Chief Officer has an important leadership role, working closely with the Operations Manager, who has line responsibility for the staff and, generally, the internal CAW operation.  The volunteers are managed on a day-to-day basis by the Advice Session Supervisors, who are critical to ensuring the quality of advice to clients, and the smooth running of the office. 

How to apply

To apply for the role of Chief Officer at CAW, please see the Job Pack on our website.

You will need to send us your CV and a maximum 2 page supporting statement. The supporting statement should demonstrate how you meet the criteria outlined in the person specification and outline why you are interested in becoming the CO of Citizens Advice Woking.

Closing date for applications: Friday 6th Febraury

Applications will be reviewed on receipt, and we reserve the right to close earlier if applications from sufficient suitably qualified candidates have been received