Senior development research officer jobs

PCS is seeking a motivated and experienced individual to join our Member Response team as Team Leader. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting the growth and success of the union by leading a dynamic team handling queries and calls. This post is based in PCS Birmingham with hybrid working arrangements. This role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact in our union.

Salary and Location

• Band 3, Regional Spine points 37-33
• Starting salary: £39,403 p.a. rising to £43,715 p.a. in annual increments
• PCS Birmingham

Successful candidates for the Member Response Team Leader will be able to demonstrate:

• Experience leading teams or supervising staff
• Working in a customer-focused organisation or service
• A strong understanding of GDPR
• Experience using CRM platforms such as Salesforce

The main duties of the Member Response Team Leader role include:

• Managing a team of Member Response Team Administrators
• Day-to-day operations of the team
• Ensuring workflows are managed efficiently and service level agreements are consistently met

With an ability to foster a positive and collaborative working environment both remotely and in person, the Member Response Team Leader will be expected to provide clear direction, conduct appraisals, and support the professional development of their team. Strong leadership skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and the ability to motivate and engage staff are essential.

The role of Member Response Team Leader offers hybrid working with flexibility to work from home outside of peak periods. Due to key operational and democratic activities, the Member Response Team Leader will be required to attend the office daily from February to April each year and additional periods throughout the year. Outside of this period, hybrid flexibility will apply in line with team needs and organisational policy.

Closing date: at 12 midday on Thursday 22 January 2026

Interviews will be in person: Thursday 5 February 2026

About PCS

PCS is the Public and Commercial Services Union, representing many thousands of members working in the civil service and related areas.

Employer Benefits

You will have access to a generous package of staff benefits including

• flexible working (including hybrid working)
• childcare and family support
• generous maternity/paternity leave
• 32 days leave and Christmas closure
• pension scheme
• employee assistance programme

Learning and Development

The union offers a wide range of learning and development opportunities. We will work with you to support your continued professional development.

PCS Recruiting Process

We use CVMinder to manage all recruitment activities. It helps us to maintain our commitment to equality and diversity by ensuring that we are fair and compliant with our recruiting practices.

Applications must be received by the closing date and time specified.

Candidates invited for interview are required to make themselves available on the date/s specified. Interview dates cannot be changed to accommodate candidates who are unavailable to attend on the specified date.

• CVs will not be accepted. Please see the job description/person specification and follow the application process.
• PCS is working towards equal opportunities and is positive about disabled people.
• All posts can be considered on a full-time, part-time or job share basis.

Please view our guidance for applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION: MEMBER RESPONSE TEAM LEADER

Ref: 0226

Grade: Band 3, Birmingham

Salary:

Spine points 37- 33

Starting salary £39,403 p.a. rising to £43,715 p.a.

Location: PCS Birmingham

Purpose of the job:

To assist in maximising the potential for union growth, development and success through managing, co-ordinating and supporting the work of the Member Response Team, in line with PCS policy and our ethos as an organising union.

Responsible to: Member Response Team Manager

Responsible for: Member Response Administrators

Contacts

External:

PCS Union Representatives, Members, Government Departments, Employees of other trade unions, Suppliers, TUC, Employers, legal and other professional advisors, other external contacts

Internal:

PCS staff and officials, Bargaining Units, Membership and Balloting, and other internal departments

Main duties and responsibilities

1. People Management

• Day-to-day management of staff and workflow
• Manage work allocation, future planning and support for team/line manager
• Through the appraisal system, identify training and development needs, train or organise training for staff
• Undertake induction programmes, 1 to 1s and appraisals with staff as appropriate
• Apply the staff conduct policies e.g. discipline, grievance, capability, dignity at work and IT security policies as and when required
• Check work standards and maintain consistent quality of delegated tasks
• Proactively promote diversity including equality in line with the wider PCS approach
• Continuously improve effectiveness and efficiency of the administrative team
• Ensure health, safety and welfare of team members

2. Systems Management

• Develop and make best use of relevant systems e.g. office, IT, finance, etc.
• Attend relevant training and ensure staff are appropriately trained on system changes and developments
• Regularly reviewing existing systems, and ensure consistency and organisational best practice is followed
• Equality-proof and check that the design and operation of any new systems are in line with wider PCS policy, e.g. health and safety, and IT security policies, and make recommendations to senior officers as appropriate where new systems are designed that could be applicable to the wider union
• Implement an ongoing development and monitoring process for systems including managing resources, gathering, monitoring, collating and reconciling information, checking allocations, preparing reports, highlighting budget over and under spends
• Set up statistical systems to produce reports and analyse information i.e. membership reports, personal cases management system, equality statistics
• Organise and allocate work, deal with queries and correspondence, research information, produce briefs, documents and responses
• Ensure the membership system e.g. Salesforce is used to maintain up-to-date data
• Contract management work including scoping suppliers, drawing up tendering documents and recommendations, provide reports to bodies and committees

3. Team Working

• Proactively promote team working
• Initiate, organise, lead and participate in team meetings as appropriate
• Maintain high levels of confidentiality of sensitive issues at all times
• Provide assistance to team members

4. Office Coordination / Project Management

• Plan ahead and prioritise the teams work
• Share best practice with colleagues across the organisation
• Manage the physical work environment e.g. undertake risk assessments, coordinate office resources, review office layout in line with facilities systems, work with department head / SNO to deploy non-staff resources (e.g. office furniture and equipment) in the most effective manner
• Prepare for, attend and record meetings and events and take follow up action
• Liaise with senior officials both within PCS and external organisations e.g. trade unions, government departments and agencies
• Handle projects as directed by the line manager
• Deal with complex queries, issues, arising from staff or via correspondence from members
• Draft complex correspondence, briefs, reports as appropriate

5. Meeting, Conference, Election, Ballot, Events Arrangements

• Organise, co-ordinate and supervise arrangements for meetings, elections, conferences, seminars and other external and internal events
• Develop appropriate systems and support for events, conferences, elections, meetings, ballots, etc. e.g. ensuring computer and internet services are available, determine schedule for printing materials, and encourage participation
• Agree and manage timetables, processes and procedures
• Attend and contribute to events as appropriate
• Ensure compliance with rules and legal requirements, including equality issues, seeking guidance where appropriate

6. Union Organising and Campaigning (where appropriate)

• Co-ordinate and assist in the delivery of union organising activity at PCS members workplaces in support of and alongside the relevant PCS Officers
• Prepare, plan, and co-ordinate team(s) support for scheduled union organising and campaigning activity
• Maintain direct contact with PCS members within their workplace(s)/branches as required
• Co-ordinate and delegate union organising and campaigning support work/activity to direct staff team as required

7. General

• At all times implement and promote the PCSs Equal Opportunities Policy adhering to the PCS Values
• Take due and reasonable care of self and others in respect of Health & Safety at Work
• Participate in appraisal, training and development systems
• In all work activities, comply with data protection legislation and PCSs requirements for the protection of personal information and the privacy of individuals
• Act in a manner that enhances the work of the PCS and its overall public image
• Such other duties that may reasonably be required and which are within the level of the responsibility of this post
• Willing to work outside normal office hours and location subject to personal circumstances, and advanced notice

Person Specification: MEMBER RESPONSE TEAM LEADER

Ref: 0226

Date: January 2026

Location: PCS Birmingham

ESSENTIAL FACTORS

EXPERIENCE

• Working in a customer-focused organisation or service
• People management including induction, work allocation, appraisal and conduct
• Efficient set up and management of office systems, procedures and databases
• Draft and deal with complex correspondence and issues
• Events management, organisation and co-ordination
• Attend meetings, produce accurate records/notes of actions, follow up as appropriate

TRAINING

(including continuous professional development)

• Evidence of ongoing training and continuing professional development
• Commitment to undertake job-related training
• Commitment to participation in appraisal and development review process
• Commitment to staff development

KNOWLEDGE

• Impact and use of digital and IT applications, including Microsoft Office and Salesforce
• Knowledge and understanding of trade unions and work of the public sector
• Project management/project activity
• Understanding of the application of GDPR

SKILLS

• Ability to communicate effectively using written and oral channels, including reports and presentations, with a variety of audiences
• Ability to identify, research, analyse and present evidence, including statistics
• Ability to manage team to ensure efficient running of the work of the department/unit
• Ability to identify and set priorities
• Deal with confidential and sensitive information
• Operational decision making (within defined parameters)

OTHER

• Commitment to the application of Equal Opportunities policies and practices at work
• Understanding of own role in maintaining legal compliances within PCS (e.g. data protection; health and safety)
• Flexible approach to work and willing to work outside of normal office hours and location on occasions

Would you like to join an organisation that is striving for systemic change? We believe it is not enough to reform structures and systems which are foundationally discriminatory. We are calling for a complete overhaul, and for people with lived experience to lead that change.

Migration is one of the most hotly debated political topics with rapid policy changes shaping the lives of millions. We’re looking for a proactive and inspiring leader to join us as Interim Head of Policy and Communications.

In this vital role, you will champion our mission to create a just society for all migrants, ensuring those with lived experience are at the centre of our work and heard by policymakers and supporters alike. You will influence national policies, engage diverse stakeholders, from policymakers to grassroots groups, and build impactful communication campaigns.

Working closely with our CEO and as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will help shape the strategic direction of our policy and communication efforts during this critical time.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in contributing to a vision for intersectional campaigns that call for systemic change, and for those with lived experience to lead the changes we need.

If you’re passionate about social justice, experienced in policy and advocacy, and a skilled communicator, we want to hear from you! 

As a lived experience and values-led organisation, and diverse team, we are looking for candidates with a:

• Commitment to upholding the rights of ALL migrants

• Real vision as to how this can be done in the current political, social and economic climate 

• A commitment to MRN's vision and values

The salary will be £43,817 per annum, pro-rata. In addition, MRN contributes up to 6% of salary to pensions. We are keen to have someone start in the role immediately.

Closing date for applications: 9am, 14 January 2026

Date for candidate interviews: 26 January 2026

Impact and Learning Consultant  (seven-month fixed-term contract, maternity cover)
 

Please refer to the attached Terms of Reference for full details, including application process.
 

Summary

• Location: London, required to work at least four days a week in our office near Victoria station. Applicant must have the legal right to work in the UK.
• Hours: Full time (40 hours per week).
• Period of contract: 1st March to 30th September 2026.
• Fee: Competitive, in line with the UK market.
• Application deadline: Monday 12th January 2026, 9am UK time.
   

About us

Vitol has a long history of charitable giving, making its first charitable grant in 2002. The Vitol Foundation was established in 2006, registered in Switzerland and operating independently from Vitol’s business interests.  Since then, the Vitol Foundation has funded over 2,000 projects in more than 120 countries around the world.

The Vitol Foundation aims to make a difference in the lives of people around the world trapped in poverty. We are passionate about supporting organisations and programmes that can take children and their families in the poorest of countries across the world out of the vicious cycle of multi-dimensional poverty.

Our work is focused on five core areas: education, health, humanitarian, water sanitation and hygiene, and local giving through Vitol’s offices worldwide.

By providing different types of financing to non-governmental organisations and social enterprises, we aim to:

• Fund transformational, efficient, sustainable, scalable and replicable investments to support and strengthen government, private sector and community systems to provide sustainable health, water, sanitation and hygiene, education and employment opportunities.
• Address the systemic issues that make humanitarian crises more acute, by funding resilience and preparation in addition to recovery.
• Share models of evidence-based best practice that can be scaled by government, private sector and/or communities.
• Act responsibly with diverse partners with sensitivity to their circumstances and cultural contexts.
• Increase engagement and leverage the knowledge base of the Vitol Group worldwide.
   

About the role

The Impact and Learning Consultant will play a central role in advancing how the Vitol Foundation understands, measures and deepens its impact. They will build on existing frameworks, tools and processes developed by our Head of Impact, Learning and Strategy who is due to go on maternity leave, as well as bring their own expertise to further strengthen our approach to impact and learning, embedding it into our day-to-day decisions. As our lead expert in this area, the Consultant will ensure that our strategy and grantmaking are guided by emerging data and evidence, and support continuous learning across all our work.

The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in the field of measurement and evaluation, combining strategic leadership experience with strong hands-on technical skills to support Foundation colleagues and nonprofit partners. They will have experience with a wide range of quantitative and qualitative research methods and working in global settings, especially to support local partners operating in low-resource and/or emergency environments. This role requires someone with excellent communication skills, translating complex findings into clear, actionable insights tailored to different audiences, including Vitol Foundation colleagues, our board and non-technical external stakeholders.

Above all, the candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to the vision, mission and values of the Vitol Foundation and improving people’s lives. They will report directly to our CEO and be part of a small but enthusiastic team of people committed to making a difference. The position is based at the Foundation’s office in London, United Kingdom.
 

Key responsibilities

Impact measurement and reporting

• Continue rollout of the foundation‑level impact framework across our grant portfolio, making ongoing adjustments and clarifications as it’s being road-tested with a growing number of grantees.
• Design and refine grant‑level impact measures. Develop impact indicators for new grants and review existing ones, working closely with programme managers and partners to ensure alignment with project goals, partner capacity and the foundation‑level impact framework.
• Review and strengthen data quality of incoming partner reports to ensure that progress is meaningfully captured through quantitative and qualitative indicators. Check for clarity, completeness, consistency and data quality, and provide feedback or make revisions as needed.
• Support uptake and adjustments to our impact dashboards in Salesforce to ensure clarity and usefulness for Foundation colleagues. Work with the Operations Manager and external developers to implement changes where needed.

Learning and strategy implementation

• Regularly synthesise and share lessons learned from across our grant portfolio as well as from the wider international development sector. Highlight emerging data, evidence and findings, and their implications for the Foundation’s strategy and grants.
• Conduct rapid evidence reviews to inform sector‑level strategies and individual grants as they are developed or revised. Work closely with programme leads and partners to ensure emerging evidence is reflected in design and implementation, and to identify ways to build credible evidence to strengthen the impact of our grants.
• Serve as a technical expert for externally-led evaluations of our grants, including reviewing research protocols, data collection tools, analysis plans, and consent and safeguarding processes. Note: evaluations will be commissioned by external parties, this role will not manage evaluation contracts or teams.

Internal and external communications

• Draw out insights from impact data, other programme documents and external sources to inform management and board reporting, including regular tracking of portfolio‑level outcomes, key trends and lessons learned.
• Work with the Head of Communications to draft content for internal and external audiences, using relevant data and statistics and creating compelling visualisations that reinforce key messages.
   

Qualifications

Essential

• Educational background: Advanced degree in a relevant field (for example, public policy, global development, business administration).
• Professional experience: 10+ years of progressive experience in impact measurement, strategic learning, or programme evaluation in philanthropy, non-profits or social impact sectors.
• Analytical rigour and insight: Demonstrated ability to synthesise complex data and strategic insights; proven record of shaping high-level organisational strategies.
• Facilitation and communication: Strong skills in facilitating discussions, presenting insights to senior leadership, and translating complex data into accessible, strategic information.
• Project management and adaptability: Track record of managing complex research and evaluation projects with multiple stakeholders; able to balance strategic oversight with hands-on problem solving.
• Must have the legal right to work in the UK.

Desirable

• Familiarity with using Salesforce as a grant management system.
• Experience working or living in one or more of our priority countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Haiti, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Myanmar, Pakistan, Senegal, Sudan, Syria and Tanzania.
   

Please refer to the attached Terms of Reference for full details, including application process.

Location: Preferably London, however will consider applications outside of London. Expectation to be in the office 40-60% of the week

Interviews: 02/02/2026

For more information or to apply, please click "apply now" to be directed to our website.

Step into one of the most exciting moments in The King's Trust’s history as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary and our most ambitious philanthropic campaign yet. As our new Head of Principal Giving, you’ll be front and centre of a bold national movement to unlock transformational investment for young people; today, tomorrow and for generations to come. This is your chance to support a £150m campaign and help shape and lead a new global philanthropic income stream, paving the way for long-term impact that lasts well beyond our golden year.

In this high-profile role, you’ll build powerful, strategic relationships with philanthropists, trusts, foundations and senior volunteers, inspiring 7 and 8-figure gifts that change lives on a national scale. You’ll bring creative energy, ambition and polished storytelling to every proposal and boardroom pitch, while working closely with colleagues across fundraising to identify, shape and secure the biggest opportunities. With a personal annual income target of £2m+, you’ll love the thrill of big conversations, bold ideas and raising sights as well as funds.

Joining us now means joining a milestone moment. You’ll help write the next chapter of The King’s Trust, building on 50 years of empowering young people and setting the foundation for the next 50. If you’re a confident relationship-builder, with experience in global fundraising, who thrives on vision, strategy and high-value philanthropy - this is your opportunity to make history with us.

What happens next?  

Please submit a CV, and Cover Letter that includes your experience, transferrable skills and motivation to work for The King's Trust! The Team will be in touch about the next steps shortly after the closing date. 

Why do we need a Head of Principal Giving? 

Last year, we helped more than 40,000 Young People, with three in four young people on our programmes moving into a positive outcome in work, education or training. The young people we help face a range of challenges, such as unemployment, mental health issues or some who have been in trouble with the law. We believe all young people should have the chance to succeed, and that young people are the key to a positive and prosperous future for all of us. We want to continue having a positive impact on young people’s lives and we couldn’t do this without the important work of the Head of Principal Giving! 

Perks for working at The Trust! 

• Great holiday package! 30 days annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays. Office closure on the days between Christmas and New Year 
• Flexible working! Where operationally possible, our roles require a combination of office days and working from home (please speak to the hiring manager about this particular role)
• You can volunteer for and/or attend events – The King's Trust Awards, Pride, active events etc. 
• In-house learning platform! Develop your skills for your career and your role 
• Benefits platform! Everything from health and financial well-being support to discounts on your favourite restaurants, shops and cinemas. 
• Personal development opportunities through our Networks – KT CAN (Cultural Awareness Network), KT GEN (Gender Equality Network), KT DAWN (Disability & Wellbeing Network), and PULSE (LGBTQIA+ Network). 
• Fantastic Family leave! Receive 13 weeks of full pay and 13 weeks of half pay for maternity and adoption leave. Receive 8 weeks of full pay for paternity leave. 
• Interest-free season ticket loans 
• The Trust will contribute 5% of your salary to the Trust Pension Scheme 
• Generous life assurance cover (4 x annual salary) 

Equal Opportunities 

Here at The King's Trust, we're committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We want to be an organisation that's representative of the communities we serve, which is why we strive for diversity of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, race, religion and sex. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone, from any background, can be themselves and do the best work of their lives. 

We are looking for people that can bring different perspectives and experiences and especially welcome applications from those who are underrepresented in our organisation and sector, such as candidates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds.  

We’re a Stonewall Top 100 Employer and we are an employer that is Disability Confident. Our staff, volunteers and young people are supported by KT CAN (our Cultural Awareness Network), KT GEN (Gender Equality Network), KT DAWN (Disability & Wellbeing Network) and PULSE (LGBTQIA+ Network). 

Safeguarding 

The King's Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As part of this commitment, we undertake basic disclosure checks in accordance with the Codes of Practice for all roles within the Trust, and for our roles working directly with young people, at an enhanced level. Having a criminal record will not automatically exclude applicants. 

A NOTE FOR RECRUITMENT AGENCIES:

We prefer to hire people directly, but we do have a preferred supplier list for when we need a helping hand. We'll be in touch directly if we need you!

About Us

GiveOut is an award-winning international LGBTQI community foundation bringing together our community and allies to support LGBTQI activism worldwide.

Across the world, courageous activists are working tirelessly to protect LGBTQI communities and advance equality. But they lack resources and funding is fragile, especially in the Global South. LGBTQI groups receive a tiny fraction of international development aid.

GiveOut exists to bridge this gap. We provide a platform for individuals, businesses and others to give tax efficiently in one place, ensuring sustained funding for LGBTQI human rights activism worldwide. By pooling donations, we provide grants to pioneering organisations, empowering them to defend our communities, tackle inequality and campaign for lasting change.

In just seven years, we have provided over £3 million in new funding, supporting nearly 60 LGBTQI organisations globally. Our grant partners report back on their achievements, and we share their impact with our supporters, demonstrating the tangible difference their generosity makes.

Together, we are strengthening the global LGBTQI movement, ensuring activists have the resources they need to build a more just and equal world.

About the Role
Fundraising and philanthropic advocacy are at the heart of GiveOut’s work. As Philanthropy Coordinator, you will be a key member of the Philanthropy team, supporting our philanthropy programme and working closely with the Head of Philanthropy and Senior Philanthropy Officers.

You will have responsibilities in three main areas: helping with internal programme coordination, supporting colleagues on key donor relationships and fundraising, and events.

You will be highly organised with a strong work ethic, enjoy organising events, and up for the challenge of raising lower level gifts from our community and allies. You will have the opportunity to develop organisational, project management and fundraising skills, learn about LGBTQI rights activism around the world, and see the impact of your work through the incredible LGBTQI organisations supported through GiveOut.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Internal Programme & Team Coordination

  • Manage calendars, schedule internal meetings, help bring together agendas, book meeting rooms, and take minutes where required

  • Help maintain internal documents & systems such as fundraising pipeline, internal reporting and project management tools.

  • Maintain database to ensure accurate donor information in GiveOut’s CRM 

  • Coordinate monthly finance reconciliation tasks for Philanthropy Team

  • Work with colleagues on shared processes, including finance and reporting

  • Contribute to a dynamic, fun and effective organisation

• Supporting Donor Relationships

  • Triage donor requests, responding where appropriate 

  • Schedule external meetings and calls

  • Create and send invoices to donors 

  • Create fundraising campaigns across third party platforms such as Benevity, JustGiving and CAF. 

  • Ensure we have necessary information to claim Gift Aid on eligible donations

  • Support on reporting to donors on the impact of their giving, building donation reports from database, liaising with internal teams, and using templates to build reports

  • Assist in donor research and prospecting

• Events

  • Support on GiveOut online and in-person events, creating event plans, and coordinating both internally and externally

  • Support travel and manage itineraries for international guests 

  • Attend GiveOut and networking events, representing GiveOut and the Philanthropy Team as needed

Essential Skills and Experience

• Connection to GiveOut’s vision, mission and values, with a commitment to the LGBTQI community

• Team player, with strong interpersonal skills 

• Strong communication skills, written and verbal, confident in engaging with colleagues and external stakeholders 

• Strong organisational skills, with ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

• Excellent attention to detail and time management

• Good working knowledge of using office software (documents, spreadsheets, presentations) and online calendar tools

• Highly motivated, with a strong work ethic

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Experience in organising and coordinating events

• Fundraising or relationship management experience

• Experience of  Google Workspace tools (Gmail, Calendar, Docs, Sheets etc.)

• Experience of Asana project management tool

• CRM experience (Donorfy-specific training will be provided)

• Experience using MailChimp, MailMerge or other email marketing tool

• Working knowledge of the GDPR

Please note, if you do not meet all essential skills and experience, but feel you would be a good fit for this role we encourage you to apply anyway.

At GiveOut, we are deeply committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, and encourage applications from women, non-binary, trans people, people of colour, and people with disabilities.

The Vacancy

Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) is a faith-based humanitarian relief and development organisation working to save and transform the lives of some of the world’s most vulnerable people.  Established in 1984, with an active presence in over 45 countries, we strive to make the world a better and fairer place for those affected by poverty, conflict and natural disasters. IRUK’s focus is strengthening effective funding, mobilising for change through advocacy and awareness-raising, and strengthening programme development and delivery. IRUK works with various partners and institutions, from governments, non-governmental organisations and local authorities to grassroots communities.

Islamic Relief UK (IRUK) is recruiting for the position of ‘Digital Product Specialist’ on a permanent, full-time basis, to be based from its Waterloo Office, London. The organisation is currently operating to a hybrid working model.

Job Purpose:

• Manage the digital assets of Islamic Relief UK, particularly the website, ensuring that it operates in an optimal manner.
• Manage the development, evolution and/or integration of digital assets, e.g. digital giving platforms and digital events management systems.
• Ensure all development projects have well considered user interfaces and provide an optimal user experience.
• Provide the Digital Marketing team support with technical SEO, email marketing, and tracking/reporting across key digital marketing platforms.

The successful candidate must have:

• Proven record of excellent people and interpersonal skills with strong communication skills at individual and group levels.
• Experience of managing web development projects
• Experience of working with internal clients and diverse teams
• Experience of delivering with a marketing budget and using resources effectively to successfully balance creative aspirations with limited financial and other resources
• An academic qualification at degree level or equivalent experience/qualification in a digital/developer related field
• A comprehensive knowledge of CMSs, preferably WordPress
• Working knowledge of PHP, HTML, CSS, SQL and JavaScript and version controlling with Git
• Experienced in interpreting data from Google Analytics, Google Search Console and other analytic platforms
• In-depth understanding of UX and UI in the context of web design
• Knowledge and understanding of implementing technical SEO
• Commercially aware, with good understanding of budget management
• Ability to communicate technical information and requirements to non-technical management and internal stakeholders
• Experienced in working from wireframes and written design briefs to build mobile responsive solutions
• An aptitude for managing short-term projects effectively
• An understanding of marketing trends and the charity market

For more information, please click on the Documents tab above to view the full Job Description.

If you are talented, reliable, service-minded, resilient and a highly motivated professional looking for a meaningful career, with a strong commitment to IRW’s mission and values of sincerity, excellence, compassion, social justice and custodianship, please apply by completing our online application form.

For more information on the excellent company benefits we offer our employees, please visit our website.

PLEASE NOTE: Interviews are expected to take place on an ongoing basis until a suitable appointment is made. Therefore, we may close the advert sooner than the advertised date.

Pre-employment Checks:

Any employment with Islamic Relief will be subject to the following checks:

• screening clearance
• proof of eligibility to live and work within the UK
• receipt of satisfactory references

Please note, for UK-based roles, we are only able to accept applications from candidates who are eligible to work in the UK. We are unable to progress applications which would require sponsorship.

Our values and commitment to safeguarding

IRW is committed to preventing any type of unwanted behaviour at work including sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse, lack of integrity and financial misconduct; and committed to promoting the welfare of children, young people, adults and beneficiaries with whom IRW engages. IRW expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct. We place a high priority on ensuring that only those who share and demonstrate our values are recruited to work for us.

The post holder will undertake the appropriate level of training and is responsible for ensuring that they understand and work within the safeguarding policies of the organisation.

All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks, which can include criminal records checks. IRW also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme.

In line with this Scheme, we will request information from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment.

By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures.

Islamic Relief is an equal opportunities employer

Salary: £65,000–£75,000
Hours: 37.5 per week
Location: Barnsley Hospice (Gawber) & Retail Hub (Dodworth)

Barnsley Hospice is seeking an inspirational Director of Income Generation to lead the strategic growth of our fundraising, retail, marketing and communications activity. As a key member of our Executive Leadership Team, you will shape the future of our income strategy to ensure we can continue delivering exceptional care for local people and their families.

In this pivotal role, you will:

• Lead the development of innovative, sustainable income streams across fundraising, retail and commercial partnerships
• Strengthen our brand, communications and digital presence to grow awareness and engagement
• Build strong relationships with donors, supporters and partners
• Provide expert strategic leadership, governance and insight to colleagues, trustees and stakeholders
• Inspire and develop high‑performing teams who live our values and deliver meaningful impact

If you are a visionary, collaborative leader with a passion for making a difference in your community, we would love to hear from you.

If you wouldlike to apply please upload your CV and covering letter.

Please explain your interest in Barnsley Hospice and how your skills and experience reflect the person specification for the role.

An informal visit to the hospice to meet our CEO/Chief Nurse and relevant teams is an essential step in the application process and must take place before the deadline.

Barnsley Hospice is committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusionin all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQIA+ candidates and candidates with disabilities because we are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Barnsley Hospice.

Any candidate who identifies themselves as disabled will be shortlisted if they meet the essential criteria for the role. Essential criteria can be found in the job description and person specification for the role. If you require any accessibility adjustments ,please contact a memberof the HR team

The closing date for applications is midnighton Sunday 18 January 2026.

The shortlist of candidates will be determined the following week.

Panel interviews will take place on Thursday 5 February 2026.

Be part of shaping a sustainable future for Barnsley Hospice.
Apply now and help us deliver care, compassion and support when it matters most.

Role Summary

Job title: Communications Lead
Contract: Part-time (80% FTE), permanent position 
Location: Hybrid working: office base is at Somerset House, London: we are flexible on approach, within a hybrid model of in-person & virtual. This can be discussed at interview (*) 
Salary: £44k p.a. (pro rata)
Reporting to: Director of Julie’s Bicycle
Start date: Ideally beginning of March 2026 - depending on candidate’s notice period 
Hours: Working hours are 9.30am - 5.30pm, Monday to Friday
(requests for flexible working hours will be considered) 

Other:

• Annual leave is 25 days per year (pro rata) plus standard bank holidays
• Cultural entitlement of £250 per annum (pro rata) to spend on arts/cultural events & activities
• All employees are able to claim 1 hour a week for personal wellbeing
• Pension scheme enrolment and 6% employer contributions (reviewed annually)

(*) Access to office space in London is always available to staff who can't or don't want to work from home. 

If you would like this application pack in a different format (e.g. large print or audio file), please contact us (information in the link provided).

About Julie’s Bicycle (JB)

JB is a leading non-profit putting climate action at the heart of culture. We believe that creativity is a powerful catalyst for change — and that the arts and cultural sector has a vital role to play in building a just, regenerative future.

For over 15 years, we’ve worked with artists, cultural institutions, funders, and policymakers to mobilise creative climate leadership and action through advocacy, research, policy influence, training, path-finding projects and community building. We champion climate justice, centre equity, and believe that environmental solutions must be driven by cultural shifts as well as systems change. For more information on all our programmes, please visit our website.

The Role

We’re seeking a visionary and collaborative Communications Lead to lead the next phase of our communications strategy. This role is about more than messaging — it’s about shaping a compelling and inspiring public voice for creative climate action.

You will be responsible for our brand, storytelling, content strategy, and creative outputs—ensuring that everything we do reflects our values, amplifies our impact, and deepens our reach across the cultural and climate landscape. You’ll also play a key role in supporting our impact including welcoming new cultural organisations, creative practitioners, environmental partners, and funders into our network.

This is a digital-first communications role, with a strong focus on content development, storytelling, and designing varied communication campaigns. You’ll oversee our editorial voice across blogs, email, social media, and digital content. Alongside our Marketing Lead, you will ensure our insights, tools, and narratives are warm, purpose-focused, clear, accessible, and optimised for reach and engagement. You will be someone who thrives on the combination of ambitious strategic thinking and delivering content and projects on the ground.

You will collaborate with partner organisations to co-create communications, support joint campaigns, and ensure our voice is visible and aligned in the broader climate and culture movement. And while press/media remains part of the role, your primary focus will be digital content, brand positioning, and reaching new audiences.

You will be part of a small Marketing and Communications team and work closely with the rest of JB’s 20-person, supportive and mission-driven team.

We encourage people from any background to apply for this post. We are committed to creating a workforce which is representative of our society, and to bringing together those with a variety of skills and experiences to help shape what we do and how we work. We are particularly keen to hear from people of colour and those who self-identify as disabled.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and deliver an inclusive, digital-first communications strategy that positions Julie’s Bicycle as a cultural leader in climate action.
• Work with senior leadership to drive communications that support organisational growth, impact and fundraising, helping to expand our network and deepen engagement with the arts and cultural sector and the climate and environmental movement.
• Embed climate justice and equity throughout our communications, ensuring our language, images, and stories reflect a diverse, accessible, and fair transition.
• Champion our core narrative: putting climate action at the heart of culture.

Brand, Creative & Campaigns

• Lead on brand implementation, ensuring coherence of messaging and tone across all channels and materials.
• Deliver innovative and values-led communications campaigns in collaboration with partners and internal teams. Lead on key messaging, ensuring we are consistent and confident across all our channels.
• Take a data-led approach to maximise impact of our communications.
• Oversee design and creative production for campaigns, reports and digital content, (working alongside our Marketing Lead and with support from external designers/freelancers).
• Ensure communications projects are managed on time and on budget.
• Develop and implement communications for newer target audiences in particular leaders and change-makers across the environmental sector.
• Collaborate with our Marketing Lead to co-develop mar/comms strategies for individual programmes and projects, working closely with our programme leads.

Content & Digital

• Develop engaging, inclusive content across web, blogs, newsletters and social media.
• Shape and oversee editorial calendars that reflect our programmes, partnerships, research, and events.
• Lead on our content management and storytelling strategy.
• Ensure all content is optimised for audience growth, accessibility, and search (SEO), working closely with our Marketing Lead who leads on our overall web and SEO strategy.
• Support on the production of public reports and external briefing materials, ensuring appropriate tone and key messages.
• Manage internal and freelance team members producing social media content.

Partnerships & Profile

• Collaborate with cultural, environmental, and funding partners to co-create shared messaging, campaigns, and communications assets.
• Ensure JB’s story, voice, and impact are clearly represented in all collaborations and public-facing materials.
• Support JB’s role in coalitions and networks by developing communications that reflect collective aims and shared values.
• Work with the JB CEO and programme leads to create and implement a strategy for public-facing thought leadership.

Media & External Relations

• Maintain relationships with relevant journalists and media outlets, responding to media opportunities that align with our strategy.
• Support the Director and other team members with media briefings and public communications as needed.
• When funded opportunities arise, lead liaison with external PR and media consultants.

Team & Collaboration

• Line manage / support the management of the Marketing and Communications Coordinator.
• Work closely with all internal teams — partnership, consultancy, research, advocacy, programmes — to align messaging and amplify impact.
• Contribute to organisational learning, planning, and shared values.
• Support the implementation and day to day running of JB’s new CRM.
• With the Marketing Lead, strengthen internal editorial and brand sign off processes for publications, media releases and key content.
• Support impact measurement and communication of impact.

Person Specification

Essential

• Substantial experience in a senior communications role, ideally within the cultural, environmental, or non-profit sectors.
• Significant experience in designing and delivering successful communications strategies.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with a track record of developing clear, creative, and inclusive content.
• Strong experience in campaign development, brand implementation, visual storytelling, and communications project management.
• Knowledge of content strategy, SEO, and audience engagement across digital platforms.
• Demonstrable ability to embed equity, diversity, and commitment to climate justice into communications practice.
• Collaborative and confident communicator with experience working across teams and with external partners.
• Strategic thinker with a commitment to Julie’s Bicycle’s mission and values.
• Strong design aesthetic and use of design skills (e.g. Adobe Creative Cloud suite and Canva).
• Strong project management skills: the ability to meet deadlines and work flexibly across priorities in a fast-changing environment.
• Attention to detail and excellent proof reading.

Desirable

• Familiarity with climate and/or cultural policy environments.
• Experience working with funders, public bodies, or large-scale cultural partnerships.
• PR and media relations experience and contacts across digital and print channels
• Design, photography, or multimedia experience (or managing those with those skills).
• Experience contributing to organisational growth and development through communications.

Why Join Us?

At Julie’s Bicycle, you’ll join a passionate team working at the intersection of creativity and climate action. We offer a collaborative, inclusive, and flexible working culture — where your voice will shape how the cultural sector responds to one of the greatest challenges of our time. 

How to Apply

If you’d like to apply, please complete the application form and equal opportunities monitoring form on our website and submit these by 11.59pm on Sunday 18th Jan 2026.

We are committed to being an Equal Opportunities Employer; we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, gender, disability, culture, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.

Please note, this post is open to people who already have the right to live and work in the UK, as Julie’s Bicycle is not currently in a position to sponsor a work visa.

A note on AI

While we understand that some people may use AI tools for accessibility (and recognise and support that many assistive technologies may use elements of AI), we ask candidates to consider what tools are most appropriate during the application process. For example, we recognise the value for many people of machine learning language tools like Grammarly. On the other hand we would discourage the use of generative AI tools in writing your application, as we'd like to understand your personal interest in working for Julie's Bicycle, and be able to understand your non-AI-assisted communication skills just as they are. We also recognise that for many of the people and creative communities we work with, the rise of generative AI poses a threat to their livelihoods, while the environmental impacts of AI are only set to grow: this means we also have a responsibility as Julie's Bicycle to consider where and when (and if) we use AI in our work. 

Thank you for your interest in working at Julie’s Bicycle.

About SCEC

SCEC was founded over twenty years ago to provide learning enrichment opportunities to primary school children in disadvantaged communities in south London. Together with our partners, several leading independent schools, we currently operate four schemes in math, literacy, science and art. Children learn through fun, engaging group activities like science experiments, storytelling and mathematical treasure hunts, all taught by qualified teachers with added support from student mentors. Through the schemes, children explore their curiosity, build knowledge and develop their confidence as learners.

Your Role

The Scheme Director is a newly created role that will be pivotal in helping SCEC extend its reach. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will help SCEC design and implement an expansion programme as well as coordinating the delivery of the existing schemes via our school partners. You will also serve as a trusted partner to the Board in the administration of the charity.

Similar to a COO, this role straddles the operational and the strategic. We are looking for a confident communicator and relationship builder who can work across varied stakeholder groups. You will have project management experience that can be applied to challenges like process design and change management. You should be able to grasp the big picture and have an eye for the details needed to deliver successful outcomes.  This is an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to join SCEC on a transformational journey working with excellent learning partners and established leaders to improve educational outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee scheme operations including pupil recruitment, enrolment and attendance to ensure the smooth running of schemes and maximum impact
• Promote the charity to prospective partners and donors
• Support the Board in developing, implementing and monitoring an expansion programme
• Monitor and report on scheme performance and impact
• Prepare and manage budgets and disbursement of funds 
• Build and maintain systems and processes to support scheme operations, compliance and monitoring

Key Qualities

• Passionate about making a difference in the lives of children
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing strategic plans to achieve organisational goals
• Track record of effectively managing programmes and services, including programme development, implementation, and evaluation
• Committed to working collaboratively to build strong relationships with business partners and colleagues and proactively engaging stakeholders when making decisions
• Self-motivated and highly organised, you have a strong sense of initiative and take a hands-on approach to planning and administration

Child Protection

SCEC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This is the responsibility of the whole organisation (trustees and staff).  An enhanced DBS Disclosure is required for this role.

For more information, please see the attached Job Description below

ESPE is Europe's leading and largest charity focused on improving the clinical care of children and adolescents with endocrine conditions.  We aim for excellence in clinical care, research and education through innovation, collaboration and technology. Our charity is growing its membership and activities at pace, and we are now searching for a Finance Manager who will be the first member of the permanent staff team who is a qualified accountant. 

The Finance Manager role will make a significant difference to how we manage our finances, at an operational and strategic planning level.  We are looking for an individual who is excited by the prospect of transforming our financial governance and management. 

Role overview:

The Finance Manager will work closely with the CEO, Treasurer, and bookkeeper to manage daily financial functions, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive financial performance - including budgeting and forecasting. 

• Contract and working conditions: This is a fixed-term role (initially 18 months) which we envisage will transition to a permanent position. Hours will initially be 17.5 hours per week with remote and flexible working arrangements. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK and be based in the UK.

• Strategic responsibilities: The Finance Manager will support financial target delivery, ensure robust financial systems, and align financial processes with organisational growth and strategy. 

• Operational duties: Responsibilities include preparation of management accounts and all financial reporting, cash flow forecasting, grant management, VAT and tax compliance, audit support, and process improvements. The role also involves liaising with external suppliers and stakeholders and overseeing payroll and pension scheme implementation and management.

• Governance and compliance: The Finance Manager will ensure adherence to the requirements of the Companies Act, Charities Act, and HMRC regulations, ensuring we prepare and submit our statutory accounts on time.  You will coordinate the annual audit, review internal controls, and report financial risks to the ESPE leadership.

• Leadership and collaboration: The role includes providing financial guidance to coordinators and teams to support informed decision-making. 

• Required experience and skills: Candidates must be a qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA/AAT/ICAEW) with at least three years experience in financial or management accounting, preferably in a professional body or learned society. Proficiency in accounting software, and having significant knowledge and understanding of VAT (ideally across Europe), analytical skills, communication, and project management skills are essential. 

• Personal attributes: The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong attention to detail, resilience, collaborative skills, ability to manage multiple priorities, and alignment with ESPE’s mission. You should be proactive, enjoy challenge, be capable of working under pressure, and skilled in influencing and strategic thinking. Must be willing to travel to Europe as required (2-4 times per annum).

Benefits:

• 30 days annual leave, plus UK Bank Holidays
• Flexible working
• Matched pension scheme (up to 7% of salary) 
• Employee assistance programme
• European travel

First interview date: 20th February, online.

What you’ll be doing 

• Leading a high performing team, providing organisational leadership and working with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we achieve our shared aims. 

• Leading the Marketing team’s programme of brand building in our hospitals, local areas, across London, and beyond, ensuring our targeting strategy and measurement is rooted in insight, effective and good value for money; and together with our Creative team provide creative leadership and direction.   

• Driving our programme of marketing intelligence and measuring marketing effectiveness. 

• Working with teams across the organisation on the implementation of our messaging framework and updates to our visual identity. 

Who we’re looking for 

• A marketing expert who has developed, led and measured marketing strategies.  

• An outstanding creative with a deep understanding of brand management, messaging and copy development. 

• A team leader and team player with excellent communication skills who thrives on working with teams across the organisation to achieve shared goals. 

What we offer  

• Hybrid working between home and Chelsea with occasional travel to Sutton. 

• Flexible working around our core hours of 10am to 4pm 

• 27 days annual leave rising with length of service 

• Up to 6% employer contributions subject to matched contribution from you (increasing with length of service) 

• Training, support and development opportunities 

• Access to the blue light discount scheme and other discounts opportunities 

• Access to subsidised staff restaurants, on-site yoga and wellbeing classes, staff choir and much more 

• Range of wellbeing initiatives including access to an employee assistance programme designed to save money and improve your physical, financial and mental health and wellbeing, access to free online GP appointments and free eye tests and contribution towards any glasses required for work purposes 

Inclusion matters  

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and walks of life. 

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you. 

Please apply with a CV and cover letter of no more than 2 pages, setting out how you meet the criteria in the person specification. 

Please note: To avoid disappointment, you are advised to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications. 

Battersea has entered an exciting phase of innovation and transformation as we embark on the second year of our new five-year strategy. With increased investment in income generation, we are strengthening our team to drive the growth necessary to achieve our organisational goals.

This is a new role working within Battersea’s Philanthropy & Trusts team to seek and secure new income as part of a £4-6million pound capital fundraising appeal over the next 3 years.

One of the key pillars of Battersea’s current strategy is to ensure that we continue to provide expert care for all the dogs and cats that come through our gates. One of the ways in which we do this is by investing in our facilities to ensure that they continue to meet the changing needs of the animals we care for. Our new capital fundraising appeal will help to achieve that aim.

The key purpose of this Philanthropy Manager (New Business) is to meet both financial and strategic KPIs, by cultivating a pipeline of new major donor prospects to secure significant donations for this capital campaign.

Please note: this is a 3 year Fixed-Term contract opportunity

What we can offer you:

In return for your commitment to our cause and to recognise the value of our employees, Battersea offers a range of benefits to support the wellbeing of our employees. These include:

• 28 days of annual leave (plus 8 days paid public holidays) per year.
• Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work schemes.
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources.
• Generous pension contributions - up to 10% employer contribution.
• Free healthcare cash plan, where you can claim for a range of treatment including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture every year.
• Annual interest-free season ticket loans.

We are also committed to providing learning and development to our employees. During your time with us, we provide support for your professional and career development, including access to digital and in-person training programmes, leadership and management training, mentoring and much more.

Our hybrid working model:

We operate a 50% onsite hybrid working model, with our office-based staff splitting their time between site based and home working. This enables our office-based staff to balance the benefits of home working with onsite collaboration and maintaining a connection to our cause.

Diversity and inclusion:

We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for all staff, volunteers and trustees and those hoping to join us. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process and actively seek to ensure our process is fair and equitable for all.

We understand the value of diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences to help us deliver even more for our dogs and cats, and we welcome applicants from all sections of the community.

As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best.

More about us:

At Battersea, we aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help. We give each one lots of love, expert care and get to know their characters and quirks so we can find them a new home that’s just right for them. Join us and help us be here for every dog and cat, wherever they are, for as long as they need us.

Acceptable use of AI:

At Battersea, we value expertise. We recognise each candidate that applies to us will have a range of expertise they can offer us, so we want to hear about this in your own words. We understand the support that generative artificial intelligence (AI) software can offer but it can also lead to numerous applications presenting as generic and impersonal. This makes it difficult to gain understanding of your unique experience.

To best showcase yourself, we encourage you to write your responses without the assistance of AI. If you require the use of AI software to aid in completing your application, we ask you use the generative responses as a prompt for writing your answers and avoid copying and pasting. You must also ensure the information presented in your application accurately reflects your experience.

Closing date: 21st January 2026
Interview date(s): Interviews will be taking place on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged as the role will closed once filled.

All applications must be submitted before the closing date advertised. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received. For full details on the role, please download the recruitment pack.

What you’ll be doing 

• Leading a high performing team, providing organisational leadership and working with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we achieve our shared aims.

• Setting the strategic direction for our content and channel activity ensuring it aligns with organisational priorities and audience needs. 

• Driving digital channel performance and optimisation, including paid advertising, to maximise reach, engagement and conversion. 

• Leading innovation across digital channels by identifying and adopting emerging technologies, techniques and industry standard best practice. 

Who we’re looking for  

• A technical and analytical expert with knowledge of successfully developing and measuring digital marketing and channel strategies, that drive reach, engagement and conversion. 

• An outstanding creative with a deep understanding of UX and accessibility principles.

• A team leader and team player with excellent communication skills who thrives on working with teams across the organisation to achieve shared goals.

What we offer  

• Hybrid working between home and Chelsea with occasional travel to Sutton. 

• Flexible working around our core hours of 10am to 4pm 

• 27 days annual leave rising with length of service 

• Up to 6% employer contributions subject to matched contribution from you (increasing with length of service) 

• Training, support and development opportunities 

• Access to the blue light discount scheme and other discounts opportunities 

• Access to subsidised staff restaurants, on-site yoga and wellbeing classes, staff choir and much more 

• Range of wellbeing initiatives including access to an employee assistance programme designed to save money and improve your physical, financial and mental health and wellbeing, access to free online GP appointments and free eye tests and contribution towards any glasses required for work purposes.

Inclusion matters  

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and walks of life. 

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you. 

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.