General Manager

Can Do is a start-up using digital technology to create social change. We work across addiction, mental health, homelessness, poverty and justice to help people access the support they need.

We are looking for a general manager to work as part of a small team. This is a practical, hands-on role that keeps the organisation running well day to day. It will suit someone who enjoys creating order, improving systems, and supporting meaningful work behind the scenes.

This is a varied role in a start-up environment. Things are still being built, processes are developing, and we need someone who brings steadiness, organisation, and a calm, reliable approach with a meticulous eye for detail.

We’re looking for someone who:

·       Has experience of general management or similar role

·       Has worked in a relevant sector, for example addiction, mental health, homelessness, poverty or justice

·       Understands and enjoys the reality of a small, evolving start-up

·       Is calm, steady and level-headed

·       Has meticulous attention to detail and is a practical organiser who gets things done

·       Can use digital and AI tools to simplify processes

·       Is empathetic and purpose-driven to help people

This role may not be the right fit if:

·       You prefer large, structured organisations with established systems

·       You are mainly looking for roles centred on visibility, profile, or personal recognition

·       You are seeking a heavily defined role rather than one that grows and adapts

If this feels like the kind of work you want to be part of, send your CV and a short note on why you’re interested.

Position:                        General Manager

Location:                      London/South East (with UK wide travel as required)

Contract type:            Flexible (full or part-time, contractor/employed)

Salary:                            Up to £50,000 pro rata depending on experience

WHO WE ARE.

Can Do is a start-up using digital technology to create social change. We work across addiction, mental health, homelessness, poverty and justice to help people access and navigate support. We are small, practical, and focused on building something that works for people facing disadvantage.

THE ROLE

You will be the operational lead for the organisation, working in a small team with founder Mark Johnson to turn plans into delivery and ensure the day-to-day running remains smooth and reliable. The role is varied, practical, and suited to someone who enjoys building structure and supporting others to succeed.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

·       Someone with experience in general management in a social enterprise, or small start-up

·       A meticulous and practical organiser who enjoys making things work and getting things done

·       Someone who wants to work with purpose, helping build a socially oriented organisation

·       Efficient, empathetic, and comfortable juggling a wide range of tasks

·       Tech-savvy and confident using AI/digital tools to make processes simple and efficient

·       Flexible: this role could be full-time, part-time, or suit someone returning to work

WHAT YOU’LL DO

·       Project management: Plan and manage projects from start to finish, making sure deadlines are met and everyone delivers on their part.

·       Meetings and follow-up: Organise and run management meetings, keep notes, and make sure agreed actions happen.

·       Governance: Oversee compliance and act as Company Secretary, keeping records accurate and up to date.

·       Finance: Use Xero and work with accountants/bookkeepers to oversee budgets, accounts, and financial reports so the numbers are always clear.

·       Fundraising and business development: Support funding applications, proposals, and relationships with partners to bring in new opportunities.

·       Operations: Keep the day-to-day running smoothly – from diary management and HR basics to coordinating contractors.

·       Communications: Maintain simple but effective comms, updating the website and keeping social media active.

SKILLS & QUALITIES

·       Strong organisational and project management skills

·       An excellent writer, whether contracts, bids or public facing materials

·       Experience of operations, governance, and finance oversight in a small organisation

·       Confidence managing budgets and financial reporting (not a finance role, but able to keep track)

·       Able to communicate clearly and keep people focused

·       Empathetic, socially minded, and committed to putting people first

·       Steady, reliable, and happy working in the background to let others thrive

EQUALITY & DIVERSITY.

Can Do welcomes applications from people with lived experience of social challenges. We are committed to ensuring diversity and inclusion in our recruitment process and workplace culture.