First job jobs

Join the Fire Fighters Charity as our Volunteering Manager and lead the development of a dynamic, inclusive volunteering programme that supports the wellbeing of the UK’s fire services community.

You’ll shape and deliver our national volunteering strategy, design an exceptional volunteer journey, build strong relationships, and ensure volunteers feel supported, valued and inspired. Working across teams, you’ll embed volunteering into our services, champion best practice and use insight to drive continuous improvement.

We’re looking for someone who:

· Has strong experience in volunteer management and volunteer strategy implementation

· Brings strategic thinking with hands‑on delivery

· Builds great relationships and influences at all levels

· Understands safeguarding, data protection and inclusive practice

· Is passionate about creating positive, impactful volunteer experiences

If you want a role with purpose and the chance to make a genuine difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and help us grow a thriving volunteer community.

Sahir has been on an incredible journey over the past four years. We have grown, strengthened our services and deepened our roots in the communities we serve. We are proud of what has been achieved and excited about what comes next.

Our CEO is stepping on to their next chapter, and we are taking the time to recruit the right permanent leader for what comes next at Sahir. In the meantime, we are looking for an Interim Chief Executive to help keep things steady, support the team and maintain the momentum we have built.

We are looking for someone who leads with empathy and compassion, works in partnership and brings the confidence and drive to support the organisation through a period of change.

About Us

Sahir is the oldest continuously operating LGBTQ+ charity in the Liverpool City Region. We are dedicated to fostering a brighter, healthier future for our communities.

We provide practical and emotional support, camaraderie and connection to:

· LGBTQ+ people

· People living with or affected by HIV

We actively confront injustice, combat discrimination and address inequalities. Through advocacy, partnerships and service delivery, we work to create a fairer and more equitable society for the people we serve. Our work is insight led and co-developed with our communities.

About the Role

This is a key interim leadership role focused on stability, continuity and care for Sahir during a period of transition.

The Interim Chief Executive will work closely with the Board, staff and partners to ensure Sahir continues to deliver safe, effective and person-centred services, maintains strong relationships and remains financially and operationally secure.

The role is not about changing direction. It is about protecting what has been built, supporting the team and helping Sahir move confidently towards the appointment of its next permanent CEO.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking a senior leader who brings:

· Significant leadership experience in the voluntary, community, health, social care or equalities sector.

· Experience working with a Board of Trustees and supporting good governance.

· Strong financial oversight and organisational management experience.

· A calm, steady and values led leadership style.

· The ability to lead people well through transition and uncertainty.

· Strong relationship building skills and a partnership approach.

· Knowledge of issues affecting LGBTQ+ communities, people living with HIV and people seeking asylum is highly desirable.

What It Is Like to Work at Sahir

We want people to enjoy working at Sahir and to feel supported, valued and able to thrive. As a health and wellbeing charity, we place strong emphasis on staff wellbeing, reflective practice and work life balance.

We offer a friendly, inclusive and supportive working environment built on trust, openness and shared purpose.

Equality, Inclusion and Accessibility

Sahir is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age.

Lived experience is valued at Sahir, but it is not a requirement. We are interested in people who share our values and want to contribute positively to our communities.

You do not need to meet every requirement listed to apply. If you feel aligned with our values and excited by the role, we encourage you to apply.

We are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process.

The Vacancy

Community Builder (Community Development) – Leeds 

Salary: Up to £33,995 per annum   

Location: Remote in Leeds with travel within the UK. See the “Please Note” section below for further details.

The vacancy   

We have an exciting opportunity for a COMMUNITY BUILDER to join our Community Development team working to support local veterans to take an active role in their communities. If you believe in the power of strong, connected communities, this role is for you.  

Please see below for more information on what just might be your future role.  

About The Role  

As a Community Builder, you will be at the heart of our charity’s ambition to reach seldom-heard members of the Armed-forces Community (AFC) and engage them in creating positive action that strengthens wider connections. 

You will identify the strengths, passions and interests within the AFC, foster meaningful connections with the wider community, and utilise these to create meaningful and sustainable outcomes.  

About You  

You will be a highly motivated and dynamic individual who is passionate about collaboration and community-led change.  You will have experience of engaging and supporting people in a community, charity, education, social care, housing, youth work, or other people-focused role using a range of facilitation tools, techniques and Community Development skills. You will need experience of working in a community setting with a diverse range of people and interests. You will have good organisational skills, energy and the ability to listen, build relationships, and inspire collaboration, which will be essential in creating positive, lasting change.

We are looking for someone with:  

• A Community Development qualification and/or transferable Community Development skills and experience.

• A basic understanding of the Asset-Based Community Development approach (ABCD) is required however full support and development of this practice and our internal ways of working will be provided.    

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships that drive action.  

• A track record of successful collaboration with internal and external partners and stakeholders.  

• Effective and efficient organisational and IT skills. 

PLEASE NOTE:  

• The successful candidate will need to be based within a 30-minute commute of their allocated locality and there is a requirement to travel regularly across the wider area (travel expenses covered).  The successful candidate must possess a valid full UK driver’s license and have access to a reliable vehicle with business insurance for work purposes.  

• There will also be a requirement for occasional travel to other UK locations for meetings and events depending on the charity’s needs such as our annual all colleagues in person event.   

• The successful candidate will work 35 hours per week over 5 days, Monday - Sunday. Core working days will be Monday to Friday; however, flexibility is essential, as regular evening and weekend work will also be required to meet the needs of the role. Working hours will vary to ensure a total of 70 hours is covered over a two-week period, so please take this into consideration before applying.  

• The successful candidate will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check   

About the Team  

You’ll be joining a dynamic team of community development professionals who are passionate about supporting people to make a difference where they live. We amplify the strengths already present in communities, forge lasting partnerships and initiatives that empower members of the AFC to thrive. Together, the Community Development Managers and the Community Builders strengthen local communities using the resources and networks that are readily available.

Please see the job description for more details.  

In return we can offer you: 

• Belonging to a team who make a difference to our community and value equality, diversity and inclusion. 

• 29 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, regardless of service -plus your birthday off to celebrate! 

• Opportunity to buy and sell up to 5 days annual leave per year. 

• Added to our free health scheme from day one, including discounts on dental, opticians, massages, and more - with the option to upgrade. 

• 3 volunteer days per year to support the Help for Heroes community.

• A generous salary sacrifice pension scheme with an 8% employer contribution and a minimum 3% employee contribution, plus life insurance up to 4× salary as an active member. 

Closing date: 22nd March 2026

Please note: We may close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of strong applications.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

About this role:

This role is a new position beginning in April 2026, as part of the new Croydon Mental Health Partnership pilot programme (MHP) led by Croydon Voluntary Action. The MHP is part of the Building Brighter Futures (BBF) initiative funded by the Maudsley Charity. Reaching Higher is one of the BBF consortium members.

Main purpose of this role:

The Co-ordinator will provide early, relational, trauma-informed interventions for young people (15–19) presenting with mild–moderate emotional wellbeing, mental health, and social needs.

This role will deliver timely engagement (contact within 72 hours), needs-based assessments, short-term support, and warm handovers into the most appropriate pathway across the BBF consortium, avoiding duplication and repeated storytelling. The role is central to the front-door and allocations model, ensuring young people receive the right support, at the right time, from the right organisation.

This new role is perfect for someone who is looking to grow their skills in partnership working, including building partnerships between statutory services and the voluntary sector, while making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. You will play a hands-on role in both the development and delivery of an exciting new mental health initiative, in line with Reaching Higher’s contextual safeguarding strategy.

This is a new role within St Luke’s for Clergy Wellbeing created to strengthen and embed high-quality clinical practice across our services. The Clinical Quality Learning Lead will support the continuous improvement and quality assurance of our talking therapy provision, enhancing safety, consistency, and a shared learning culture across our network of therapy providers. This will ensure that our grant-funded support continues to meet the highest standards of care for clergy and their families. 

This role suits someone who can dedicate around one day a week to provide clinical quality oversight, support reflective learning and strengthen best practice.

You will be ideal if you:

• Have relevant clinical experience and registered practitioner (see job pack)
• Share our passion for clergy wellbeing
• Have a heart for learning and sharing learning to improve practice
• Enjoy developing communities of practice. 

St Luke’s is a small, dedicated team. Our success depends on each person contributing to the life of the team and the vision of St Luke’s. This role does not require the post holder to have a Christian faith but must be in sympathy with our vision and values. 

An exciting opportunity to lead a dedicated team supporting young people to build resilience and thrive.At an exciting time of growth for our charity, we are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated leader to manage programmes and daily operations at our farm near Skipton, nestled in the sweeping countryside south of the Yorkshire Dales.You will play a key role in ensuring our young people have a meaningful, inclusive, and memorable experience with Jamie’s Farm, feeling the positive impact long after their visit. 

What is Jamie’s Farm?Jamie’s Farm is a charity that supports young people by combining therapeutic work, farming, and purposeful activities to help them thrive. Through residential visits to our working farms, we provide a nurturing environment where young people can reflect, build confidence, and develop the resilience they need to overcome personal challenges. 

More about the role:As Head of Farm, you will help deliver our transition from Day visits to Residential visits at our Skipton farm, working alongside and managing a team to deliver an impactful programme. Your responsibilities will include leading up to four visits per month, ensuring the smooth delivery of residential visits, representing Jamie’s Farm with partner organisations, funders, volunteers and other stakeholders; and fostering a culture of empowerment and collaboration within the team. You will help achieve key performance goals including high visitor retention and staff satisfaction rates, while also leading professional development and team-building activities for your team. 

You will participate in all aspects of farm life - leading walks, guiding young people through meaningful output-based jobs like gardening or log chopping, and creating meaningful connections during shared meals and evening programmes. You will also contribute to broader Jamie’s Farm strategy as a key member of the Leadership team. 

About you:  We are looking for an experienced and passionate leader who embodies Jamie’s Farm core values of positivity, passion, generosity, collaboration, and professionalism. You will have experience in relational leadership and practice with young people. Prior management experience is preferred, showing your ability to support and motivate teams effectively. You will bring exceptional communication, teamwork, and organisational skills to the role. 

You will excel at developing meaningful relationships with diverse individuals and organisations, using positivity and empathy to inspire and motivate others. Your dedication to helping young people thrive, especially those in challenging circumstances, will drive the success of your team and the programme. 

Please see the full job description, desired experience and employee benefits by exploring our recruitment pack below.Don’t meet every single requirement? We’d still love to hear from you – your unique skills and experience could be just what we’re looking for. 

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.

Location: London based, homeworking is considered in line with Crisis’ Hybrid Working Policy

Contract: 12 months fixed term contract (parental leave cover)

About the role

Crisis has laid out a vision, that by 2035 we will see all forms of homelessness in decline. We will bring about this impact through our three organisational aims, by:

• Securing the policies that solve homelessness
• Delivering services that end homelessness for people and places
• Building a community of people across Britain that are helping to end homelessness

To manage this bold ambition, we are planning in three-year cycles. Our current 2025-28 strategic plan outlines our key priorities – alongside national influencing, place-based system change, direct service delivery and greater audience engagement, we will become a landlord for the first time in our 60-year history.

Providing critical thought partnership to senior leaders, the Senior Strategy Manager enables delivery of our strategic plan by aligning plans, helping to understand performance, and unlocking our potential to deliver our strategic objectives.

About you

You’re a natural collaborator, skilled at constructive challenge and facilitating spaces that bring people together to think deeply.

With experience in strategy, transformation, organisational development or programme management, you know how to steer strategic ambition into achievable plans and how to measure success.

Considered and analytic, you’re astute to risk and can recognise when we’re off course. Your trusted people skills facilitate the identification of solutions, inspiring others to take action.

Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions, we encourage you to apply.

We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities, and backgrounds.

Working at Crisis

Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.

Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.

As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:

• A competitive salary. Please note our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage
• Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy
• Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5%
• 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption pay
• Flexible working around the core hours 10am-4pm
• Wellbeing Leave to be used flexibly
• And more! (Full list of benefits available on website)

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience, and career.

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

How do I apply?

Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.

Closing date: Sunday 15th March at 23:59

Interviews will take place at Universal House, 88-94 Wentworth St, E1 7SA on Tuesday 31st March - stakeholder panel interview and Thursday 2nd April – formal panel interview

Interview process: Two stages - informal stakeholder panel and formal panel interview - competency-based and presentation task

AI in Job Applications

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences

Accessibility

We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email our Talent Acquisition team to discuss how we can help.

Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094

We are looking to appoint support workers to provide an inclusive, welcoming and supportive environment for our autistic members.

Working under the supervision of Programme Delivery Managers and Supervisors, key responsibilities include: 

• Programme support and activity delivery of activities for members at our clubs during term time and school holiday activities.

• Supporting members with their engagement and development in activities, both educationally and socially. 

• We are especially interested in recruiting those who have experience with facilitating sporting activities with children and young adults.

This role is ideal for someone looking for flexible work.

When shifts are available, they will be on Mondays, Thursdays and/or Friday late afternoons and evenings, so you would need to be available at these times during term time. 

Salary Band: £ 13.85 per hour 

Contract Type: Casual worker contract

Working Pattern: Must be available to work some or all the following times during term time: Mondays 4.15pm - 7.15 pm, 7pm – 9.30pm; Thursdays 4pm–7pm; Fridays 4pm–7pm and 6.30pm–9.30pm. 

Location: Mondays West Wickham, Thursday and Fridays Orpington. 

About you 
You are creative and adaptable with strong problem-solving skills. You are self-motivated, able to take initiative and have good interpersonal skills.You will have experience of working with young people, particularly those who are vulnerable, or have special needs. 

You are also someone who shares our way of working: 

Committed – We are committed to CASPA’s mission and our work. 

Learning – We share knowledge, learn from others to grow our skills, and support others to grow. 

Proactive – We take action, problem solve and “muck in” where needed. 

Organised – We plan and manage our time, tasks and responsibilities. 

Optimistic – We think positively, encourage fun, and promote autistic Pride. 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. 

We are keen to attract those with lived experience of autism. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age and disability. 

About GNDR

We are the Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR), the largest global network of organisations committed to working together to improve the lives of people affected by disasters worldwide. Since being established in 2007, we have grown into a network of over 2,000 member organisations across 130+ countries, representing millions of people on the frontlines of hazards, climate change and mass displacement. Through transformative, evidence-led programming and powerful advocacy, we are driving climate action and disaster resilience alongside our members across the globe.

About the role

GNDR is seeking a motivated and strategic leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as our new Head of Operations. 

With the launch of our 2026–2030 Global Strategy, this is a defining moment to shape how GNDR functions and ensure our global network is equipped to deliver real impact.

In this role, you will set the operational vision that underpins our strategy, ensuring our systems, people, and resources are aligned, sustainable, and future‑ready. You will lead all core operational functions, building the strong operational foundation that enables GNDR to thrive. Working closely with teams across regions, you will ensure our operations are coherent, efficient, and responsive to the needs of our members and the communities we serve.

If you’re driven by the opportunity to shape organisational excellence, strengthen global operations, and create the conditions for meaningful change, we’d love to hear from you.

Overall scope of the role

The remit of this post will cover the following core responsibilities:

• Strategic financial oversight
• Funding, grants and partnerships
• People, culture and organisational development
• Systems, logistics and IT
• Legal, risk and compliance
• Governance and board support
• Strategic leadership
• Line management and team development

Candidate requirements

We are ideally seeking candidates with:

• Expert financial stewardship, including management of grant‑funded budgets, financial controls, reporting, procurement, and supplier partnerships
• Operational and governance leadership spanning finance, HR, IT, compliance, risk, and organisational systems
• Inclusive people and culture leadership, with HR expertise and experience supporting cross‑cultural, geographically dispersed teams
• Strong digital capability, from driving digital transformation to confidently using finance, HR, and IT systems
• Strategic and organisational development skills, including planning, project oversight, risk management, and guiding teams through change
• Senior‑level strategic leadership, contributing to organisational direction and fostering effective cross‑team collaboration
• A deep commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and alignment with GNDR’s mission and values

Eligibility

Eligible candidates must have the right to work in the UK.  Candidates will need to be able to travel internationally when necessary. 

This role is primarily remote. We’ll ensure you have a safe and appropriate remote working setup, and we’re open to discussing flexible working arrangements as part of the recruitment process. Our hybrid working approach is currently under review, so there may be occasional in‑person meetups in London in the future, subject to ongoing consultation.

Please note that all offers of employment at GNDR are conditional and subject to satisfactory background checks.

We encourage applications from people who meet most of the essential criteria listed in the job description below. You don’t need to tick every single box to be considered. We recognise that strong candidates may bring relevant strengths and experience in different ways, and we don’t want this to deter you from applying. If you can demonstrate a solid overall match with the role, we’d love to hear from you.

For a full job description and person specification please follow the link below.

Start date

We are ideally looking for candidates who are available to start as early as possible. However, we recognise that availability may vary due to individual notice periods, and we are happy to accommodate some flexibility where possible.

How to apply

Please submit an up to date copy of your CV (max. two A4 pages) and a cover letter (max. one A4 page) outlining skills and experience relevant to the role by email to our HR team. Please include in the subject of the email, the following: “Application for the Head of Operations role”.

Please note: we are unable to accept incomplete applications.

Contact information of our HR team are availble on our website, please follow the application link below.

Closing date

11 March 2026 at 12pm (GMT)

Due to the high volume of applications we expect to receive for this role, we may not be able to provide individual feedback. However, we will endeavour to contact all applicants to update them on the outcome of their application.

Interview

Week commencing 16 March 2026

Please note: The interview process usually consists of two online stages, which may include a role‑specific task. Candidates who are successful at the shortlisting stage will be invited to a first online interview. If you progress from there, you’ll be invited to a second‑stage interview, where we may also ask you to complete a task assessment. Interviews are typically conducted by a panel of two to three people, including the hiring manager. We encourage applicants to let us know about any adjustments needed to ensure the recruitment process is fully accessible and equitable.

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion 

We are dedicated to creating a team that embodies the rich diversity of the society and communities we serve. Our commitment lies in cultivating an inclusive environment, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

We strongly encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including those from underrepresented ethnicities, nationalities, socioeconomic circumstances, LGBTQIA+ and individuals with disabilities. We celebrate the unique experiences and perspectives that every candidate brings and are dedicated to ensuring fair and equitable opportunities for all.

We’re committed to making our recruitment process as accessible and inclusive as possible for individuals of all needs and abilities. If you require any adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please contact us. Contact information are available on our website, please visit our jobs pages.

Our benefits and wellbeing

At GNDR, we are committed to cultivating a happy and healthy working environment for all our staff. We provide a competitive salary and benefits package across all of our locations.  Find out more about our approach to wellbeing and our benefits on our website.

Flexible working

In order to support and encourage a healthy work-life balance for our staff, we are happy to consider flexible working requests as part of our recruitment process. As a global organisation, most staff work remotely depending on their role and location. 

If you have any questions on any of the above information or if you have any specific requirements that would enable you to participate more fully in the recruitment process,  please contact our recruitment team.

Are you passionate about supporting leaders from around the world? Do you thrive on creating transformative learning experiences and building international networks? We're looking for a Global Fellowship Manager to join our London-based team to manage a high-profile international fellowship programme within a collaborative team, working with global cities, cultural leaders and partners from six continents. 

The Global Fellowship is the first of its kind. It will grow civic leadership and support future generations of cultural policy leaders who are responsible for managing complex projects, networks and cultural ecosystems.

You'll manage this pioneering programme and be instrumental in shaping the future of global cultural leadership as part of our small and dedicated team. 

Location: Hybrid. In London office at least 3 days per week plus when meetings required. Flexibility for remote work and some international travel. 

Reports To: Senior Programme and Research Manager 

Employment Type: 12-month fixed term, full-time (37.5 hours/week). We will also consider 0.8 FTE or secondment arrangements 

Salary: £40,000 per annum 

Application Deadline: 04 March 2026 at 09:00 GMT

Selection process 

• Pre-interview task: Shortlisted candidates will complete a 45-minute remote administration task (requires computer and internet access) 

• Round 1: week of 9 March 2026 

• Round 2: week of 16 March 2026 

SANE is seeking an experienced Finance Manager to support the effective day-to-day financial management of the charity and help ensure our mental health services are financially well supported.

This is a hands-on, operational role working closely with the Chief Operations Officer and Senior Management Team. The Finance Manager will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, producing clear financial information and ensuring strong financial controls are in place.

This role would suit someone who enjoys practical finance work, values accuracy and organisation, and wants to use their skills in a purpose-driven charity.

Key responsibilities:

Manage day-to-day finance operations, including income, expenditure and bank reconciliations

Prepare monthly management accounts and support budget monitoring

Maintain accurate financial records in line with charity accounting requirements

Support payroll processes and liaise with external providers

Prepare information for audits and work with external auditors

Support finance-related reporting for trustees, funders and senior managers

Ensure clear financial procedures and strong internal controls are followed

About you:

You will have proven experience in a finance or accounts role, ideally within the charity or not-for-profit sector. You will be confident working independently, while also supporting colleagues across the organisation with finance-related queries.

You will be highly organised, detail-focused and comfortable managing competing priorities. Strong Excel skills and experience using accounting software are essential, along with a practical and solutions-focused approach.

A commitment to SANE’s values and an interest in supporting mental health work are essential.

The role 

The Events Assistant will support our Engagement Officers in the day-to-day coordination and delivery of the events and outreach, such as our Fellas’ Forums and Fellas’ Fairs. Working alongside the Engagement Officer, Engagement Manager, Office Administrator, and wider team, they will assist in the promotion, organisation, facilitation, and evaluation of events and engagement activities, including large-scale events. 

They will support a range of administrative and practical tasks, demonstrating strong organisational skills, the ability to multitask, and confidence in completing delegated responsibilities. This role will require travel across Essex and occasionally beyond. Please note some events will take place during evenings and weekends. 

The Events Assistant will also contribute to wider engagement initiatives, including both traditional and innovative outreach methods, such as digital engagement or film-based activities, supporting project outcomes and community participation. 

Working as part of the HWE team, the Events Assistant will help ensure that events, projects, and activities are well-coordinated, inclusive, and delivered in line with the principles and standards outlined in the HWE Strategic Plan. 

To work with HWE staff, and especially the Business Planning Team, to support the delivery of high-quality and well-organised HWE ongoing forums and events. This includes: 

• project planning, to ensure that the aims, objectives, and outcome plans are in place and that the intended activity is likely to achieve those outcomes; that suitable milestones and monitoring are in place; that budgets are realistic and represent best value; and that risks have been assessed. 

• project delivery, including working with and coordinating HWE ambassadors and staff, as well as external partners/stakeholders, suppliers and contractors, to ensure that HWE projects and events are delivered according to plan; 

• ensuring that project delivery is on time and on budget, and that risk mitigations are in place; 

• working with the HWE communications team to ensure that there is a PR and communications plan in place, and that it is implemented as appropriate; 

• ensuring that projects/events are evaluated appropriately, that outcomes are monitored, and that feedback is captured and provided to stakeholders. 

Key accountabilities 

• Demonstrable experience of working on projects and/or events. 

• Experience working in a fast-paced environment, managing a potentially unpredictable workload. 

• Knowledge and experience of using IT systems. 

• Experience and knowledge of social media and its applications. 

• Experience of community outreach and engagement.

• Ability to carry out events in evenings / weekends as required.

• To conduct other tasks and duties as considered reasonable by the CEO. 

This role involves a Level 3 Apprenticeship with Colchester Institute.

Permanent | Full Time | Circa £28,000 + Excellent Benefits

Location: London

Make a Difference Every Day

For more than 100 years, the RAF Benevolent Fund has been supporting the RAF Family. We are a key partner in the Royal Air Force’s mission to look after its people during and after service, ensuring that this service is valued, recognised, and people are supported even when uniforms are eventually shed. We are a national charity with international reach, delivering emotional, financial and practical support wherever and whenever it is needed. Each year, our vital services and support continued to help those serving, families, veterans, and the bereaved, in 30 other countries and in 2024 more than 64,000 people benefitted from the charity’s work.

As an organisation, we encourage learning and development and there will be ample opportunity to learn more about the Royal Air Force, the broad impact of the Fund’s work as well as developing your own skillset. 

Do you want to play a part in what we do?

People are at the heart of everything we do. Together, we:

• Provide personalised support to members of the RAF Family – listening carefully, offering guidance, and tailoring our services to individual circumstances so no one is left behind.
• Improve quality of life for serving and former RAF personnel and their families through life-changing financial assistance, housing support, and help with essential living costs.
• Increase independence by enabling members of the RAF Family to live life on their own terms, whether through mobility equipment or housing adaptations.
• Enhance wellbeing for those who serve and have served, and their families, through mental health and emotional support, youth programmes, and restorative respite and holiday breaks.

About the Role

We are seeking an individual to work within the Strategic Partnerships team. This post plays a crucial role in the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund’s Strategic Partnerships Team in supporting the development of long-term fundraising relationships with corporate prospects and existing donors through administrative tasks, research and communication support.

Additional Information

· Must have the right to work in the UK.

How to Apply
Click [here] to submit your CV and a cover letter explaining why you’re the perfect fit, including examples of how you meet the job profile.

Closing Date: Wednesday 11th March 2026, 5:00pm

A copy of the Fund’s Candidate Privacy Notice can be found on our website. As an equal opportunities employer, the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. The Fund takes safeguarding seriously, and appropriate background checks will be completed. You can find out more about our commitment to safeguarding on our website.

The RAF Benevolent Fund follows Safer Recruitment practices as it strives to ensure that everyone who comes into contact with the Fund will be protected from harm. The successful candidate for this role will need to prove they have the right to work in the UK. We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join the Fund.

The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is a Registered Charity (No. 1081009).

Job Purpose

This role sits at the heart of Operation Smile UK’s five-year strategy to deliver transformational growth across all income streams. As Retention Fundraising Lead, you will be instrumental in delivering on three of the four core strategic priorities:

1. Build Regular Giving – retain and maximise value from the regular giving base

2. Drive All Donors to Legacy – ensure donors experience best-in-class stewardship, increasing their loyalty to the charity with an objective of feeding into legacy and long-term giving goals.

3. Maximise Growth Through Digital Fundraising Integration – leading the expansion and optimisation of digital growth for all existing supporters.

The Retention Lead is responsible for delivering Operation Smile UK’s strategic individual giving retention and legacy marketing programme. This role is key to driving income growth from our existing donors from the point of recruitment, maximising value and minimising attrition from the regular giving pool and generating and retaining legacy actions and prospects.

You will lead on the strategy, planning, delivery and evaluation of retention campaigns, with full accountability for managing significant budgets, agency partnerships and performance metrics.

You will support the development of the Legacy strategy, be instrumental in planning legacy activity and delivering legacy marketing for the existing supporter base across all income streams and methods of support, from Partnerships, Volunteers and public fundraisers.

This is a senior, hands-on role suited to an experienced Individual giving fundraiser with strong commercial acumen and a data-driven mindset.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Campaign Leadership

• Develop and implement the retention strategy, aligned with income targets and supporter growth objectives.
• Lead on the planning and delivery of campaigns across cash, donor stewardship, legacy prospecting and stewardship, welcome, conversion, reactivation and upgrade appeals.
• Lead on strategic development of the cultivation journey to ensure Operation Smile maximise growth through digital channels.
• Monitor and report on campaign performance, providing insight-driven recommendations to optimise results.
• Drive testing and innovation to expand existing approaches and introduce new ones within acceptable risk and return parameters.

Budget Ownership & Performance Monitoring

• Take full responsibility for retention and legacy budget management, income forecasting and cost control.
• Set, monitor, and evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs), reporting against ROI, value and response, retention and conversion metrics and long-term value across all supporter groups channels.
• Collaborate with the Senior Database Manager and the Director of Data and Technology to develop and maintain performance dashboards (e.g., Power BI) and support strategic data analysis, including both short term and long-term channel performance evaluation.

Line Management

• Provide day-to-day leadership and support to the Retention team, ensuring clarity of objectives, effective workload management, and professional development opportunities.
• Conduct regular 1:1s, annual appraisals, and performance reviews for direct reports, supporting their growth and accountability.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture, encouraging innovation, learning, and high standards of delivery.
• Provide strategic and operational direction to external agencies or freelancers working on retention projects.

Agency & Partner Management

• Manage day-to-day relationships with external fundraising and creative partners.
• Lead on the relationship with the external fulfilment agency working with multiple internal stakeholders to ensure an effective partnership is in place.
• Lead briefings, content sourcing, agent training, stakeholder approvals, and quality assurance processes.
• Negotiate contracts and hold suppliers accountable for delivery and performance.

Cross-Team and Market Integration

• Represent the retention and legacy programme in cross-functional planning meetings and contribute to a unified team culture focused on strategic delivery.
• Work closely with the Acquisition and Digital lead to deliver a seamless supporter journey from point of recruitment to donor communications.
• Work closely with the Philanthropy Manager to develop and manage the pipeline of HV/Major donors.
• Work closely with the Legacy administrator, Philanthropy Manager and Volunteer Manager to develop the legacy pipeline.
• Work closely to ensure all digital communications are aligned and support the retention strategy
• Act as a key liaison with colleagues across Operation Smile global markets, sharing insights and exploring opportunities to align strategy, co-develop creative, or pilot cross-market initiatives.

Compliance, Risk & Best Practice

• Ensure all campaigns meet legal, ethical and data protection requirements (e.g., GDPR, Fundraising Regulator).
• Act as a key contributor to organisational risk assessments relating to income performance and supplier performance.
• Keep up to date with sector trends, innovations and benchmarks to maintain best practice.

Person specification

Essential Experience

• Extensive experience (ideally 5+ years) in Individual Giving, Legacy or fundraising acquisition roles.
• Proven success delivering multi-channel (including digital) retention campaigns for both cash, legacy and regular giving donors with strong ROI.
• Experience managing external agencies and suppliers to high performance standards.
• Strong background in regular giving retention.
• Demonstrable experience managing and reporting on retention budgets.

Skills & Attributes

• Strategic thinker with excellent campaign planning and execution skills.
• Highly numerate and confident using data for decision-making and optimisation.
• Strong project and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proactive, self-starting approach with high levels of ownership and accountability.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to represent the organisation externally.

Desirable

• Understanding of retention and supporter journey optimisation.
• Familiarity with CRM, Dot digital and data system Donorfy.
• Experience with Power BI or other reporting tools.

First-round interviews are set for the week of 9th March 2026. We strongly encourage early applications.

Disability Confident Committed Employer

We're a Disability Confident Committed employer, so we guarantee an interview to any disabled applicant who meets the minimum requirements for the job.

At Operation Smile UK, we value individuals based on their performance and potential. We're dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that supports everyone's needs. We're happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the application and employment process, and we particularly welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.

If you need this document in a different format, require any adjustments, or need help with your application, please contact us (further details contained within the job description).

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Operation Smile UK knows fundraising could better reflect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people the charity sector supports. If you don’t meet every requirement but believe your transferable skills align with the role, we encourage you to contact us for a conversation. 

We want our team to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, offering equal opportunities to everyone, regardless of, age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

We celebrate diversity and encourage you to bring your authentic self to Operation Smile UK. We are committed to supporting all applicants and ensuring a fair hiring process. All appointments will be made solely on merit, and we are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.