Governance and policy officer jobs

Job Purpose 

The Operations Officer will support the efficient running of the Trust’s operations, working closely with the Head of Operations and wider team. The role involves supporting HR, IT, governance, and compliance functions, and maintaining effective systems and processes. The postholder will also liaise with trustees and volunteers and contribute to organisational development. 
Key Responsibilities 

• Support office facilities and supplier coordination (office supply maintenance, postal services, IT, HR)

• Assist in maintaining and improving internal systems including document management. 

• Support compliance with Data Protection, Health & Safety, and HR policies. 

• Help maintain operational records and business continuity documentation. 

• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, training logistics, welfare initiatives and HR record-keeping. 

• Provide administrative support for meetings, including occasional minute-taking. 

• Liaise with volunteers and u3a members to support operational projects. 

• Contribute to the coordination of events such as the AGM and trustee elections. 

• Support risk assurance and policy development under the guidance of the Head of Operations. 

Equal Opportunities Statement 

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, and encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. 

Reasonable Adjustments 

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment or interview process, please let us know. We will work with you to ensure you have the support you need to participate fully. 

Benefits 

At Third Age Trust, we’re passionate about helping people in later life to learn and live well—and we want our team to thrive too. Here’s what we offer: 

• 8% non-contributory pension – we invest in your future. 

• 25 days annual leave (plus potential extra days off at Christmas). 

• Hybrid working – flexibility to balance work and life. 

• Regular staff social activities – because connection matters. 

• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – for wellbeing and support. 

• Regular training and development opportunities – to help you grow. 

Join us and be part of a team that makes a real difference. 

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

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

The Opportunity

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

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

Flexible and portfolio working will be welcomed.

What you’ll lead

Profile & influence:

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

Membership growth:

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

Partnerships & income:

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

Team & operations:

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

What you’ll bring

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

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

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

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

What success looks like in year one

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

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

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

Please see the full Job description attached

Our commitment to inclusion

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

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

About Mesothelioma UK

Mesothelioma UK is a national charity dedicated to supporting anyone affected by mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused primarily by asbestos exposure. Our mission is to help people live better and longer, champion equitable access to improved treatments, advance research, and amplify the voices of those living with mesothelioma. We are proud to provide specialist nursing, information, research, and advocacy services across the UK.

The Opportunity

As our founder and current CEO steps down, we are seeking a visionary and values-driven Chief Executive to lead Mesothelioma UK into its next chapter. This is a pivotal moment for the charity, offering the chance to build on our strong foundations and drive forward our ambitious strategy to improve outcomes for all those affected by mesothelioma.

About the Role

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive will:

• Inspire and lead a high-performing team, including our unique NHS-based nursing network.
• Develop and deliver organisational strategy and operational plans.
• Ensure robust financial management and income generation.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders including the NHS, donors, partners, and research teams.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity, raising our national and international profile.
• Uphold our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

About You

We are looking for an exceptional leader who brings:

• Proven experience at CEO, Director, or equivalent senior level in a non-profit or health sector environment.
• A track record in leadership, strategic planning, financial management, governance and fundraising.
• Strong people management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Passion for our mission and values, with high ethical standards and integrity.
• The ability to inspire, motivate, and unite staff, volunteers, and partners.

What We Offer

• Salary circa £75,000 (negotiable, dependent on experience)
• 10% employer pension contribution
• Health Cash Plan & Employee Assistance Programme
• Flexible working arrangements
• The chance to make a profound difference to people’s lives

About Us

Freeways and Freeways Trust are linked local charities that supports adults with learning disabilities.

Freeways is a highly regarded provider offering a range of social care support services and Freeways Trust owns and manages a portfolio of properties which support the work of Freeways. Both charities are passionate about helping people to become as independent as possible by supporting them to make choices, learn new skills, and make links with their local community.

About the Role

The Finance Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of both Freeways and Freeways Trust and will be responsible for developing  and delivering financial strategies that align with the charities' objectives while maintaining financial sustainability. This position also involves overseeing financial management, ensuring compliance and leading the finance team to achieve operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership and Financial Planning: Collaborate with the Senior Leadership Team to set strategic direction and develop financial strategies and budgets.  Develop the financial strategy and five-year budget plan, including capital investment plans and cashflow forecasts that align with strategic priorities and operational plans.

• Financial Management and Control: Oversee finance operations, ensure timely reporting, and lead the annual audit process.  Maintain, review, and update internal financial controls across the finance function, identifying, assessing, and mitigating financial risks. Be responsible for the review and audit of financial processes across the organisation including for the people we support.

• Organisational Performance: Manage budget-setting and performance tracking, providing insightful analysis to stakeholders. 
• Governance: Act as Company Secretary, ensuring compliance with charity law and maintaining essential records with the Charity Commission and Companies House.
• Leadership, Management and Culture: Build strong relationships with key stakeholders and lead the finance team to achieve operational excellence and foster a positive organisational culture.

About You

You will be a qualified and experienced finance professional with strong leadership skills and a commitment to improving financial processes. Your strategic thinking and exceptional communication skills will allow you to explain complex financial information to various audiences and help them understand the impact on the wider charity and the potential future options. You will also possess a solid understanding of financial management, compliance, and governance, along with the ability to lead and develop a team.

Benefits

• 35 days (pro-rata) annual leave entitlement (including public holidays)
• Company sick pay
• Company pension scheme
• Life assurance cover of twice your annual salary (subject to rules of the scheme)
• Free parking on site
• Family-friendly/work-life balance policies
• Free DBS check every 3 years
• Occupational health provision
• Employee Assistance Programme – 24-hour access to a counselling and legal helpline

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS and Adult Barred List check.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – The Eveson Trust
Location: Worcester (minimum two days per week in the Trust’s office; travel across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and the West Midlands)
Salary: circa £75,000
Contract: Permanent, 35 hours per week

Are you a judicious, outward-looking leader who can sharpen strategy and raise the profile of a regionally rooted grant-maker with a significant endowment?

About The Eveson Trust
The Eveson Trust is a Worcestershire-based, place-focused grant-maker established from the bequest of Violet Mary Eveson. With an endowment of approximately £100 million, the Trust supports an annual grants programme of around £5–6 million and in 2022 modernised its legal structure by becoming a Charitable Incorporated Organisation while retaining strong local roots.

We exist to relieve need and enhance quality of life across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and the West Midlands, prioritising support for people with disabilities, mental-health needs, children and young people in need, older people, those experiencing homelessness, and users of hospitals and hospices. Our next CEO will be central to translating stewardship into measurable local impact and sustainable grant practice.

As our next Chief Executive Officer, you will:

• Strategy & Impact: lead the development and delivery of a refreshed strategic plan and grant-making framework that focuses resources where they will make the greatest measurable difference.
• Governance & Finance: support and advise the Board and sub-committees, ensuring robust governance, high-quality committee papers and sound financial stewardship of the endowment.
• Operational Leadership: strengthen internal systems and processes, make effective use of Salesforce, and propose a right-sized resourcing model to deliver the Trust’s ambitions.
• Income & Investment Oversight: work with the investment advisers and Trustees to balance spending policy, long-term capital protection and responsible investment principles.
• Community & Partnerships: build regional funder partnerships, increase reach in under-represented areas and foster strong relationships with grantees and local stakeholders.
• Grants Quality & Safeguarding: ensure rigorous due diligence, proportionate monitoring and consistently high standards of safeguarding and risk management.
• Brand & Profile: establish and deliver a communications plan that raises the Trust’s visibility across urban and rural communities.
• Team & Culture: lead, mentor and develop a compact team and oversee high standards in HR, data protection and operational compliance.

Who you are

• A seasoned senior leader with demonstrable experience in grant-making, philanthropy or a closely comparable mission-driven setting.
• Financially literate and confident with investment reports, annual accounts, budgets and risk analysis.
• Experienced in modern grants processes, due diligence and impact-focused monitoring.
• Comfortable advising and constructively challenging Trustees, producing concise, evidence-based committee papers.
• A strong relationship builder with a track record of partnership development and external representation.
• Skilled in strategic analysis, clear judgement and using data (for example Salesforce reporting) to inform decisions.

Why The Eveson Trust?

• A rare leadership opportunity to steward a significant endowment and shape a strategic grant-making approach across a diverse regional footprint.
• A respectful, detail-focused Board and a compact, capable team who value proportionate, evidence-based practice.
• The chance to expand the Trust’s presence in under-represented boroughs and to develop meaningful funder partnerships.
• Competitive salary, defined-contribution pension, flexible working and a supportive, mission-focused culture.
• The role offers clear scope to design the team and systems needed to deliver a more impact-focussed future for the Trust.

For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill at via the apply button with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 2nd February 2026

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, with around 300 people diagnosed every day. The Macular Society is the only charity determined to beat the fear and isolation of macular disease with world class research, and the best advice and support.

To support people affected by macular disease now, the Macular Society provides a range of support, information and services. Our research programme is focused on finding new treatments and a cure to Beat Macular Disease forever.

Reporting to the CEO, the Governance and executive support officer will work closely with our ambitious Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees to enable effective governance and leadership across the charity. The post holder will play an essential role in coordinating work across the organisation and helping us to Beat Macular Disease.

Whilst providing administrative support and diary management, the highly organised post holder will support the CEO with internal communications and policy coordination, as well as owning and managing key organisational resources such as our risk register, compliance register and policy register.

As a natural collaborator and excellent communicator, the post holder will have experience of supporting complex meetings and providing high quality governance support at Board and Committee meetings.

In return, we provide a great working culture – we do something worthwhile and are proud to work together to Beat Macular Disease – as recognised by our inclusion in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2023 list. 

We offer flexible working options, 26 days annual leave, rising to 27 after one years’ service, the ability to buy or sell annual leave, supportive family policies, and 6% pension contribution. To find out more please visit our website.

We are passionate about treating people fairly and as equals, doing so is instinctive to us. To Beat Macular Disease for all we know we have work to do. That’s why we are keen to hear from people of all backgrounds who have the skills and experience we are looking for. We particularly encourage applications from people from under-represented groups, to help ensure what we do and how we do it is inclusive – for everyone.

Closing date: Friday 16 January 2026 at 09:00

Interviews: Tuesday 27 January 2026 (Virtually online)​

About Wikimedia UK

Wikimedia UK is the national platform for open knowledge, bringing together practical and policy expertise about Wikipedia and the other Wikimedia projects. Delivering impact of over 1 billion views each year and engaging thousands of people through advocacy, education, outreach and partnerships, Wikimedia UK demystifies and drives engagement in open access to information.

Role Overview

This is a new and exciting role that will be critical to the organisation’s leadership and governance. The Executive & Governance Assistant will provide high-level support to the Chief Executive and ensure the smooth running of Wikimedia UK’s governance processes, including board meetings, subcommittees and the Annual General Meeting.

You’ll play a key role in supporting effective decision-making and stakeholder engagement, working closely with trustees, senior staff, and external partners. This position is ideally suited to someone with substantial experience supporting senior executives - who is highly organised, discreet, and confident managing complex schedules and governance processes.

Key Responsibilities

Governance Support

• Support the CEO and Head of Finance & Operations to ensure effective governance and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

• Schedule board and subcommittee meetings in line with the annual business cycle.

• Coordinate board and subcommittee meeting logistics, including video calls, calendar invites, and in-person arrangements.

• Book travel and accommodation for trustees as needed.

• Collate, prepare, and distribute meeting papers efficiently and accurately.

• Produce and circulate clear, concise, and timely meeting minutes.

• Lead the planning and delivery of the Annual General Meeting, working closely with staff and trustees.

Membership Administration

• Manage all aspects of Wikimedia UK’s membership programme.

• Process new member applications promptly and accurately.

• Maintain up-to-date membership records in the charity’s CRM (training provided).

• Develop and oversee systems for managing renewals and membership engagement.

• Coordinate membership communications and contribute to campaigns to grow and retain members.

Executive Support

• Provide comprehensive administrative and organisational support to the CEO.

• Manage the CEO’s calendar, prioritising effectively and scheduling meetings with internal and external stakeholders.

• Coordinate travel and accommodation for national and international commitments.

• Support expense claims and credit card reconciliations.

• Conduct desk research, prepare correspondence, and assist with presentation materials as required.

• Handle sensitive and confidential matters with the utmost discretion and professionalism.

Person Specification

Essential Experience and Competencies

• Substantial experience of providing high-level administrative support to a Chief Executive, Director, or senior leader, gained within the not for profit sector.

• Proven experience of charity or public sector governance, including supporting the preparation and distribution of board papers, providing logistical support for meetings, and producing accurate, well written minutes.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and accuracy.

• Highly organised, with strong time management and the ability to prioritise effectively.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a small team.

• Excellent IT skills, including confident use of digital tools and software for scheduling, document management, and communication.

Desirable Experience and Knowledge

• Experience of supporting leaders in managing stakeholder relationships

• Knowledge of Google Workspace (particularly Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and Slides)

• Familiarity with CRM systems and/or charity membership management.

• Familiarity with the open knowledge movement

Personal Attributes

• Discreet, diplomatic, and professional at all times.

• Calm and confident when managing multiple priorities.

• A proactive and solutions-focused approach to work.

Alignment with Wikimedia UK’s open knowledge mission and its values of equity, inclusivity, collaboration, creativity, and boldness.

Governance and Performance Officer

We are seeking an organised and analytical Governance and Performance Officer to support strong decision making, accountability and regulatory assurance within a values driven housing organisation.

Position: Governance and Performance Officer
Salary: £32,022 per annum
Location: Hammersmith, London with hybrid working
Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing date: Wednesday 21 January 2026
Interview date: Thursday 29 January 2026

About the role

Reporting to the Corporate Assurance and People Manager, this is a varied and influential role supporting effective governance, performance management and regulatory compliance. You will work closely with senior colleagues and Board members, providing high quality coordination, insight and assurance in a regulated social housing environment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Coordinating Board and Committee activity including agendas, papers, minutes and action tracking
• Maintaining governance documentation, registers and forward plans
• Producing clear governance, performance and assurance reports to support informed decision making
• Managing performance management frameworks, dashboards and reporting
• Supporting risk management, audit activity and regulatory compliance
• Maintaining oversight of policies, assurance logs and contract registers
• Supporting data protection and information governance activity including GDPR and Subject Access Requests
• Acting as a system administrator for governance, performance and assurance systems

About you

You will be confident working with complex information and senior stakeholders, with strong judgement and attention to detail.

You will bring:

• Experience in governance, performance, assurance or corporate support within a regulated environment
• Experience supporting Boards, Committees or senior management groups
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, trends and risk
• Excellent written communication skills for senior audiences
• Confidence managing multiple priorities and deadlines
• Strong IT and systems skills and a methodical, organised approach

Experience in social housing or a similar regulated sector is desirable but not essential.

About the organisation

This organisation provides safe, secure and affordable homes for single women across London and has a long standing commitment to equality, inclusion and empowerment. With ambitious development plans and a collaborative culture, it places transparency, accountability and residents at the heart of its work.

Other roles you may have experience of could include; Governance Officer, Performance Officer, Corporate Governance Officer, Assurance Officer, Risk and Compliance Officer, Business Performance Officer, Board and Governance Coordinator, Policy and Performance Officer. #INDNFP

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

About Local Voice and Healthwatch

Local Voice is an independent charity delivering Healthwatch services in Waltham Forest and Newham. Healthwatch gives local people a strong voice in shaping health and social care. We gather community insights, identify what is and isn’t working, support improvement, and represent people’s experiences to decision-makers.

About the role

We are looking for an experienced and organised Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day delivery of Healthwatch Waltham Forest and Healthwatch Newham. You will manage operational activity, support staff and volunteers, maintain strong governance processes, and ensure that insight gathered from local people leads to meaningful improvements.

You will work closely with the Chief Executive and Advisory Groups in each borough and help shape annual work programmes based on evidence, engagement, and co-production.

What we are looking for

• Experience managing projects, teams, and budgets
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills
• Ability to build relationships with statutory, voluntary and community partners
• Understanding of Healthwatch, community engagement, or health and social care
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and high-quality community insight

Full details are in the Job Description and Person Specification.

Are you up for a new and exciting challenge, leading one of the most effective and nimble NGOs in the transport and environment sectors in England and Wales?

Transport Action Network (TAN) is seeking a dynamic and knowledgeable CEO to lead its remote team of six.

Since it was set up in 2019, TAN has established itself as a thought leader on planning and transport matters, while providing hands-on support and advice to local communities seeking better transport solutions. It has successfully challenged government decisions and helped local communities fight off damaging road schemes. Some examples include schames that would have harmed Stonehenge World Heritage Site, South Downs National Park and Rimrose Valley Country Park in Liverpool.

TAN is currently supporting the Queensbury Tunnel Society, trying to stop the government blocking up an old railway tunnel so that it can be repurposed for a new greenway. It is also opposing the Lower Thames Crossing 'smart' motorway.

Fancy, getting involved and making a difference?

We look forward to hearing from you.

Deadline for returning completed applications is 23:59 (GMT), Sunday 1st February, 2026

First interviews: 27th February and 4/5th March

This integral role will provide high-quality administrative, compliance and organisational support across the charity. The Operations Officer will support day-to-day operations, ensuring strong governance, accurate record keeping and systems efficiency all of which will allow the delivery of CHEER’s client and volunteer services.Training will be offered where required (eg: compliance, DBS checking, charity governance).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

1. CRM management (Beacon) 

• Ensure the charity’s CRM is accurate, up to date and used consistently across the team. 

• Conduct regular spot checks and data quality reviews. 

• Support the transition to CRM-driven reporting. 

• Develop and maintain CRM admin processes, templates and documentation (including user guide). 

2. Governance, compliance & policy administration 

• Maintain organisational policies, procedures, training records and compliance documentation. 

• Schedule reviews cycles and follow up with team/trustees for updates. 

• Maintain accurate HR compliance records for team (DBS renewals, training certificates etc.). 

• Keep governance and compliance well-organised and accessible. 

• Contribute to improving workflows, systems and processes. 

3. SharePoint & digital systems maintenance 

• Lead an overhaul of SharePoint structure to create a clear, user-friendly filing system. 

• Ensure documents are saved, organised, version-controlled and archived. 

• Keep SharePoint updated and functioning well. 

• Support staff with basic digital troubleshooting and liaise with IT support when required. 

4. Memberships, subscriptions & Organisational admin 

• Monitor charity memberships, renewals, insurances, subscriptions, storage costs, licences, software and service contracts. 

• Maintain a central register of renewal dates and ensure timely payments. 

• Support procurement of equipment, supplies and services. 

5. Meeting coordination & minute taking 

• Manage meeting schedules, invitations, and logistics for: 

• AGM 

• Board/trustee meetings 

• Trustee/team meetings 

• Working groups and subcommittees 

• Prepare and circulate meeting papers. 

• Attend meetings, take accurate minutes and distribute them promptly. 

Charity People is delighted to be partnering with AdviceUK to recruit for an interim Head of Policy, Programmes and Media. Joining the organisation as a maternity leave cover contract, this is a role where you will have the opportunity to achieve significant impact across some key priority areas.

Since 1979, Advice UK has been supporting advice organisations by helping them to be efficient, competent and effective, and by campaigning for a policy environment that supports advice agencies and people needing advice. A small but mighty - and growing! - charity that supports its members to provide advice to upwards of 2.5 million people each year. The organisation is working towards a world in which every individual, regardless of means, is able to access the advice they need in order to exercise their rights and address any legal and social welfare challenges they may face.

Contract: Interim maternity cover role, nine to 12 month contract

Salary: £70,000 to £75,000 per annum

Location: Hybrid role which will be predominantly home-based with travel to London for either office days or meetings expected around one day per week

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week or part time, 28 hours per week considered with flexible working options fully supported

Closing date for applications: 9am Friday 30th January
Interviews: Interviews will be held in person at the charity offices in London on the 11th and 12th of February

The Head of Policy, Programmes and Media position is a senior position within the organisation. Part of the SLT and reporting to the CEO the postholder will take the lead on all policy and public affairs initiatives to secure policy change and funding to benefit people seeking advice and the communities served by the organisation's members.

Core responsibilities within the role will include:

• Develop and oversee the implementation of effective strategies for policy and funder influence that enable Advice UK to achieve its purpose
• Identify new audiences and develop innovative approaches to sustain and grow Advice UK's stakeholder and funder network and achieve its strategic priorities
• Be accountable for Advice UK's policy, public affairs and funded activities, reporting to the Chief Executive and Advice UK Board
• Lead the development and coordination of clear, concise and authoritative policy positions on key issues
• Identify actionable and achievable policy influencing goals to achieve change on the highest priority issues and develop strategic influencing plans to achieve these goals
• Alongside the Chief Executive, be Advice UK spokesperson and representative at external events including policy roundtables, steering groups, conferences, meetings and other events
• Oversee and deliver a proactive public affairs strategy to achieve policy change on the issues of priority concern to members
• Identify and build effective relationships with key contacts across UK and devolved governments and parliaments, including Ministers, MPs, civil servants and local and regional decision makers
• Lead a stakeholder engagement programme for Advice UK working strategically to identify, develop and manage relationships with a broad range of stakeholders, including policy influencers, funders, sector partners and other organisations
• Oversee the development of effective press and media campaigns, mobilising support and leveraging media opportunities to raise awareness and drive action on priority issues
• Oversee the development and effective delivery of the #AdviceSaves campaign (including Advice Week), ensuring impact is measured and lessons learned
• Oversee development of research and analysis to identify emerging trends, opportunities in support of our policy and campaign objectives, using this to provide evidence-based insights and identify specific policy solutions to inform advocacy efforts
• Lead the development of high-quality research and insight products, including research reports and commissioned surveys to support our influencing goals
• Oversee the delivery of Advice UK's funding strategy to open up funding opportunities for members and their advice services
• As the departmental budget holder, lead on all financial management for the department, including forecasting and measuring financial performance, setting and managing budgets, reducing waste, and taking action to ensure the department achieves its financial objectives
• Provide effective leadership to the Policy and Public Affairs department including line management of a team of four, ensuring their strong performance and supporting their learning and development
• Work with other members of the senior leadership team to develop and implement Advice UK's strategic plan in supporting of its overall strategic objectives and to establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs)

We'd love to see applications from candidates with the following skills and experience:

• Significant experience of delivering within a complex policy environment, ideally within an organisation of similar size and complexity including of developing and delivering impactful policy and public affairs strategies that have led to demonstrable change
• Experience or an understanding of the social welfare advice sector; the issues faced by advice providers and the communities they serve
• Experience of working with suppliers and partners to deliver campaigns, research and funding proposals including tendering, negotiating and contracting, and of working in coalitions and partnerships to achieve shared objectives
• Experience acting as a spokesperson for an organisation
• Experience of strategic leadership of teams and working with CEO, Board and as part of a senior leadership team
• Ability to apply knowledge to new challenges and situations, and to devise solutions
• Strong analytical thinking and decision-making skills, with ability to translate data and evidence into actionable insights to inform decision-making
• Ability to think strategically; working in timescales of between one to three years
• Ability to manage and motivate staff to deliver complex or challenging projects
• Commitment to social justice, equality, diversity and inclusion

If you're interested in hearing more about this opportunity, please send your CV to Alice at Charity People in the first instance. 

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

About us

GSG Impact is a UK-registered charity with a global footprint. We work with a network of National Partners and collaborators across multiple countries to help build “impact economies”, strengthening the systems, relationships and market infrastructure that enable capital and policy to deliver better social and environmental outcomes. Our work brings together evidence, convening power and practical support, partnering with leaders across public, private and civil society to accelerate progress and share what works globally. 

The role

We are seeking an experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead our organisational operations, including finance, HR, governance, compliance and risk. You will ensure strong systems, controls and processes that enable excellent delivery across an international organisation. 

Key responsibilities

• Lead organisational operations across finance, HR, IT, legal, admin and key systems

• Own budgeting, forecasting, reporting, audit and treasury/controls

• Strengthen UK charity governance, policies, compliance and risk management

• Oversee contracts, procurement, supplier management and external advisers

• Lead people operations across multiple jurisdictions (including Employer of Record arrangements) 

About you

• Track record in UK charity governance/compliance and international operations

• Senior operational leader with strong financial and people management experience

• Confident working across complex stakeholder environments and multi-country teams

• Clear communicator, pragmatic problem-solver, calm under pressure 

How to apply

Please send CV (max 2 pages) and a cover letter (max 1 page) explaining your suitability.

GSG Impact is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. We are committed to safeguarding and will carry out appropriate pre-employment checks.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications or appoint a suitable candidate before the advertised closing date.

Employer: Community Rail Network 

Salary: £43k-£51.5k pa, full time 

Location: Home based / flexible or Huddersfield 

We are seeking a dynamic director of policy and communications, to lead and develop our increasingly impactful external affairs activity. You’ll be sharing community insights and evidence with policy and decision-makers at national and devolved level, supporting a shift towards more inclusive and sustainable transport and mobility, while overseeing high-quality, inspiring member communications and thought-leadership, drawing on grassroots experiences.  
  

About us 

Community Rail Network is a national not-for-profit organisation supporting a growing ‘community rail’ movement, which helps communities get the most from their railways, promotes sustainable and inclusive travel, coordinates volunteering and place-making, and brings people together.

Community rail is made up of 76 community-based partnership organisations, and c.1,300 station friends volunteer groups and other community-led initiatives around Britain. Their activities range from creative projects for young people, to advising train operators on service improvements, to building travel confidence among marginalised groups, to biodiversity projects at stations, to promoting greener tourism by rail.

Our enthusiastic team of 24 works from home in different locations, but we come together regularly in person and online. We work collaboratively to support our members, provide training, events and resources, run campaigns, and champion community rail and its insights. We believe in developing our team and helping everyone reach their potential while having a good work-life balance.

About this role 

This role is crucial for us, our members and their communities, especially at the current time, with our need to seize on the opportunities of rail reform and devolution, promote wider use of sustainable transport, and bring communities together. You will spearhead our external affairs strategy and plans, building political relationships, influencing decision-making and raising awareness of community rail and its insights, while ensuring effective communications with our members and helping them to have a voice locally and regionally. You’ll be striving to put community rail at the forefront of a shift towards more inclusive and sustainable mobility.

As a member of our senior leadership team, reporting to and working closely with our chief executive, you will manage a passionate team of four, ensuring collaboration with our other teams, partners and funders, and drawing on members’ insights.

 
Main responsibilities 

• Lead the review, development and delivery of our communications, policy and insights strategy, working to position the community rail movement effectively, use its insights to influence policy change, and ensure our members are well-informed and have a voice; 

• Further strengthen our advisory and influencing work with national, devolved and regional government, transport bodies, parliamentarians and other decision-makers, especially around rail reform, transport devolution and integrated, inclusive, sustainable transport; 

• Ensure we’re engaging effectively with policy developments and opportunities, taking forward a programme of relationship-building, and identifying and engaging in relevant consultations, events and speaking opportunities, enabling community rail’s insights and experiences to be shared; 

• Collaborate with partners in rail, government and the third sector to feed in our expertise on community engagement with rail, amplify our campaigns, and build opportunities for joined-up communications and policy work;

• Continually develop and disseminate our evidence base and insights on the social, environmental and economic value community rail delivers, and opportunities to create greater benefits for communities from rail and transport; 

• Oversee high-quality, coherent and inspiring communications with our members and partners, promoting our work, and sharing news, opportunities, and good practice across the movement; 

• Manage production of high-quality resources, case studies and reports that our members can use to enhance their impact and which showcase community rail’s impact; 

• Lead and develop our media relations and awareness-raising PR, championing community rail and its messages on sustainable, inclusive travel and communities at national and regional level, while supporting members on local PR; 

• Develop our online presence and reach, making full use of our website, social media, our Scenic Rail Britain campaign, and partners’ channels to celebrate and position community rail and grow its reach and impact; 

• Oversee a calendar of creative and impactful campaigns that involve and empower our members, creating PR and engagement opportunities, including Community Rail Week;

• Play a key role in collective leadership, strategic focus and organisational development as a member of our senior leadership team, including through internal communications and cross-team working, annual planning, funder liaison and reporting, upholding our strategies and policies, and pursuing opportunities for continuous improvement. 

 
Skills and competencies 

1. Strong leadership and management skills, including experience managing, developing and drawing on a multi-faceted team delivering complex campaigns or projects, and budget management; 
2. Excellent communication and external leadership skills; articulate, assertive, and with the ability to work diplomatically and persuasively with stakeholders at all levels; 
3. An understanding of public affairs, ideally in relation to community development, sustainability and/or transport, and a demonstrable ability to identify influencing opportunities, deliver thought-leadership, and engage with policy-makers, including sharing community insights; 
4. Politically astute, with awareness of and commitment to social inclusion, social justice and sustainability, and a good grasp of the importance of public transport sustainable travel, and community-led action, to these agendas; 
5. Understanding of political processes and experience of engaging with policy and decision-making, ideally at national, devolved and local levels; 
6. Sound knowledge of communication and marketing methods and channels, and ability to oversee messaging and targeting of public and professional audiences, and to align content across multiple channels; 
7. A demonstrable ability to think analytically and draw on statistical and qualitative research to construct robust, evidence-based arguments; 
8. Experience of working with the media and achieving coverage at national, regional and local level; 
9. Experience working collaboratively with partners and ideally funders to deliver communications and policy activity and forming professional networks; 
10. Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines while dealing with competing priorities, and to support team members to do so; 
11. IT literate with a good working knowledge of Office, the internet and social media; 
12. Appropriate qualifications and professional development demonstrating knowledge and skills in line with the above, and a commitment to ongoing learning and development.

Other information

As you will be home-based, we are flexible about your location. However, you will be expected to travel to in-person full team meetings quarterly (usually in West Yorkshire), and you will need to bring your team together (currently all West Yorkshire based) with similar regularity in between. Attendance at in-person events and meetings is also important. We therefore welcome applications from those with decent public transport links, not too far from a railway station, to enable journeys to be made sustainably.   

This is a full-time position, 37 hours per week. We use a flexi-time system with core hours 10am-3pm, and are committed to being a flexible, supportive and understanding employer. This is a permanent position with a probationary period of six months.   

Community Rail Network is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and Black, Asian and other minoritised groups, who meet with the skills and competencies for this role. We will provide reasonable adjustments for interviews as required.