Poole Lifecentre & Foodbank manager

Faithworks is seeking an inspiring leader to oversee Poole Lifecentre - a vibrant hub centred on a busy foodbank and a range of essential services for individuals and families in crisis. Alongside food staples, fresh fruit/veg and cooking packs, the Lifecentre provides help with housing, debt, isolation, lone parenting and more. Working in-house and with partners, it delivers both urgent practical help and longer-term “walk-alongside” support that enables people to rebuild stability and hope.

About the role
You will lead the centre’s staff, volunteers, and partner network, ensuring the delivery of practical help, relational support, and spiritual encouragement in a safe, welcoming environment. You’ll champion our values - Welcoming, Alongside, Trusted, Practical, and Empowering - while building strong partnerships with local churches, agencies, and supporters.

What you’ll be doing:

• Overseeing day-to-day operations across the main site and satellites.

• Recruiting, equipping, and encouraging a thriving volunteer team.

• Building partnerships with churches, statutory agencies, and community groups.

• Developing services that respond to local needs - e.g. debt advice, community meals, lone-parent support.

• Promoting the Lifecentre so it’s seen as a trusted place to receive and give support.

• Ensuring the highest standards in safeguarding, health & safety, and professionalism.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is a practising Christian, ready to share the hope of Christ with gentleness and respect (occupational requirement under Equality Act 2010).

• Has proven leadership experience in community or charity settings.

• Relates easily to people in crisis and can inspire and unite teams from diverse backgrounds.

• Is highly organised, emotionally intelligent, and able to juggle priorities with grace.

• Can work flexibly, occasionally including evenings or weekends.

Why join us?   

This is a chance to shape a well-respected, growing service that’s transforming lives in Poole. You’ll be part of a supportive, faith-driven charity committed to generosity, integrity, and grace - both in how we serve our guests and how we work together.