Entry level jobs

This is a new, senior role at the Fair Education Alliance that will shape and lead our regional collaboration model. You will report into, and work closely with Gina Cicerone, Co-CEO. 

You will lead the implementation of FEA’s regional place-based collaboration approach. This includes overseeing the establishment of three deep, regional partnerships with combined authorities to enable cross-sector innovation and collaboration to improve outcomes for children and young people. You will lead on the creation of the core components of this model, reviewing and adapting as the work develops, working with FEA members, local leaders and young people to drive equity in education and employment outcomes. Each deep partnership will have its own Head of Region, to co-direct this work alongside you and a small central team. 

You will also be responsible for leading a peer network, enabling shared learning across combined authorities and utilising their collective insights to shape national policy and practice.

For more details please refer to the Appointment Brief on our website. 

Job Title: Intensive Needs Support Coach

Location: Rochester, Medway (11 min walk from Rochester Station or buses 191, 133, 140, 700 to Star Hill Stop F)

Salary: £24,500

Shift Pattern: 12 month fixed term contract which is rolling dependent on contract extension. 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00. You may be required to work outside these hours as per service requirements and these hours may be flexible as can be discussed.

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic and self motivated Intensive Needs Support Coach to join us on a fixed term rolling contract as part of the Rough Sleeper Initiative Project. You will provide effective practical and personal support and guidance to our residents during their stay in our accommodation to enable them to become more resilient and to live independently. The service supports residents who have a history of non-engagement and have a history of rough sleeping and complex needs. You will proactively support them to be more engaged in activities and support plans to overcome their personal barriers. You will run activities and complete safety plans, support plans, and other appropriate interventions to support our residents to achieve their goals.

About you

We are looking for someone who is dedicated and passionate to supporting those who face multiple disadvantages within society, and have a history of homelessness. You will be driven to help end the cycle, by providing personalised support to individuals for them to gain greater independence and have long term access to accommodation. You will have an understanding of the challenges they face and understand how different complex needs can vary. We're looking for someone who is resilient, a problem solver, and able to work in fast paced ever-changing environments. 

• Experience in working directly with people who have experienced homelessness
• Experience with supporting people with multiple complex needs which can further include substance use and mental health
• Ability to build rapport and develop positive working relationships with our resident groups including those who have challenging behaviour and substance use challenges
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment
• Proven ability to demonstrate compassionate and creative work practices with residents to address support needs and/or risks
• IT Proficiency, ability to learn new software programs, basic Microsoft experience
• Alignment with our values of Ambition, Empowerment, Inclusivity, and Transparency

Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.

What we offer

• 25 days (Full time equivalent) annual leave, increasing with the length of service
• Training and Development, including access to courses, upskilling, and progression plans
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Reflective Practice regular sessions with a therapist provided by an external provider to support Mental Health and Wellbeing at work
• Eligibility to register with Blue Light Discount Card
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Annual Staff Awards
• EDI Ambassador programme
• Be part of an organisation which believes good care and support improves lives.
• Join an organisation with a mission to empower people who are marginalised by building powerful partnerships and creative solutions that bridge gaps in provision and aid recovery, reablement and resettlement.

We value and celebrate the unique backgrounds, perspectives and experiences of all of our employees. We have a team of staff ambassadors who volunteer to actively support us in fortifying our organisational value of Inclusivity. They embrace this unique opportunity to deliver awareness, events, and developments to our organisation to support us in ensuring our value of Inclusivity is embedded throughout the organisation. 

SIG actively encourages applications from individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds, particularly lived experience; Naturally, we approach any emerging issues with empathy and sensitivity. 

About Social Interest Group (SIG)

SIG is a not-for-profit organisation providing thousands of people with good-quality support and care in residential, drop-in centres, community floating support settings, probation settings, and hospitals. We do so across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, Kent and Liverpool. Our goal is to transform lives through empowering change. 
Want to know how we work? Watch our short Theory of Change video to see how we support people towards a brighter future: Theory of Change Further details can be found on our website here: Theory of Change - Social Interest Group - Social Interest Group. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please note that this job advert may close early due to screening applications on an ongoing basis. We advise applying as soon as possible for your application to be taken into consideration at the early stages.

Please note that as part of our process, we complete an enhanced DBS check, some roles may require further vetting. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact us on the details below. 

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship, please ensure you have full right to work in the UK prior to applying to our positions. 

Additional information on our company policies including Gender Pay, Equality and Diversity, Company Benefits and our Candidate Privacy Policy can be found on our website.

YMCA St Paul's Group aims to support and empower young people and communities throughout London and beyond by providing life-changing youth work, essential community services, inclusive health and wellbeing centres, and supported accommodation for those who are at risk of homelessness. As one of the largest YMCAs in Europe, we’re proud of our dual identity as a Charity and Registered Provider of Social Housing.

As part of a bold phase of planned growth under our three year strategic plan, the role of Group Director of New Business & Partnerships has been created. This is an opportunity for a forward-thinking leader to help shape the future of YMCA St Paul’s Group by developing impactful partnerships and unlocking new business opportunities that align with our mission.

Working closely with the CEO and the Executive Team, you will lead our business development efforts, build strategic partnerships, and position YMCA St Paul’s Group to grow our reach and relevance. While the initial focus will likely be in Housing and Support, we also see huge potential in Health & Wellbeing services and beyond.

We are looking for an enterprising and inclusive leader with a strong track record of business development within commissioned or regulated services. You will bring commercial acumen, a collaborative spirit, and a natural ability to build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. While housing experience is valuable, we also welcome candidates with transferable knowledge and experience from other regulated sectors. You do not need to be of Christian faith, but you must be able to respect our ethos and uphold the values we live by.

At YMCA St Paul’s Group, it’s our people who make the difference. We’re committed to creating an environment where colleagues feel a deep sense of belonging and are supported to grow and thrive. That’s why we were recently recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for Development by Great Places to Work – an achievement that reflects our culture of care, learning and continuous improvement.

We hope that, as you learn more about us, you’ll be excited by the opportunity to be part of our next chapter – and the difference we can make, together.

To download a full copy of the candidate brief and learn more about the role, please click the ‘Apply’ button, where you will be redirected to the website of our recruitment partner, Tall Roots. Applications should include a CV and covering letter. If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please email Mark Crowley at Tall Roots.

Population Matters –  Director of Fundraising and Engagement

Location: Home-based with occasional travel (and a regular presence in the office).

Salary: £70k per annum, reviewed annually.

Contract: Permanent, full-time hours. 

Population Matters, the organisation shining a light on the impact our growing population is having on us and nature, is seeking a Director of Fundraising and Engagement to lead and inspire a passionate team towards achieving a global funding model that is diverse, sustainable and pioneering by 2030.

Population Matters is a small yet ambitious global organisation with a vision of a world in which our human population lives fairly and sustainability with nature and each other. With Sir David Attenborough as a patron, the charity works to campaign, inform, undertake research and do all they can to encourage an open fair-minded and constructive debate about population to achieve a better future for people and the planet. They aim to create a wave of public awareness and corresponding policy action on a growing population and unsustainable consumption.

This is an exciting time to join the organisation with a revised vision, mission and values, in conjunction with a new global strategy for 2025-2030 launched earlier in the year. 

The role of Director of Fundraising and Engagement will play a pivotal part in bringing the organisation’s five new strategic goals to life through targeted fundraising work made possible through strong relationship management, influential fundraising and engagement activity and effective partnership building with key stakeholders and donors.  Using a test and learn approach, you will develop a diverse range of donors, allies and influencers who care about the planet and who will support and amplify the charity’s work. The role will also be responsible for exploring global funding opportunities around the creation of new regional hubs and ensuring that Population Matters’ fundraising is supported by clear, compelling, positive, targeted communications.

The role will also sit on the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), working collaboratively with the CEO and other Directors to ensure the organisation delivers impact across its strategic goals.

The successful candidate will have a strong track record in successfully developing and implementing fundraising strategies or plans, including leading a high performing team, as well as experience of securing funding from international sources or experience working in an international/global context. You will also have demonstratable success in developing and/or delivering an individual giving or legacy programme as well as a philanthropy or grant-seeking function.

You will have strong relationship building skills with major donors and individual supporters, able to align their giving needs with Population Matters’ work. Excellent communication skills will be combined with a resilient and optimistic approach and the ability to work independently with professional drive. Finally you will be passionate about the vision and mission of Population Matters.

Please download our Candidate Pack for further information [PDF], which includes details on how to apply.

Closing date: Monday 7th July, 9.00 am. 

Two Rhythms is seeking a dynamic Business Manager to spearhead their operational and financial success, ensuring the charity's sustainability and growth. This pivotal role involves driving earned income, managing financial health, and expanding the reach of their therapeutic arts programs across South Wales and the UK.

The Business Manager will oversee the operational and financial management of the charity, ensuring the organisation is efficient, sustainable, and aligned with its mission. They will focus on earned income generation and working to increase it in line with the business plan. They will be outward-facing, generating new business with local authorities, care providers, schools, hospitals and hospices. They will work closely with the CEO, and Head of Programme to introduce the 2R programme to new guests across South Wales, and with the Membership Officer to extend our membership programme across the UK.

The Business Manager will play a crucial role in managing the charity's financial health, ensuring resources are effectively utilised to support its mission and goals. This hands-on role involves overseeing financial planning, budgeting, reporting, and compliance while supporting their leadership team colleagues with financial insights and strategies.

They will prepare reports for the management team, CEO and Trustees as required and they will liaise with our external accountants, helping to prepare annual accounts and other statutory documents.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

OPERATIONAL

1. Business and Operational Management:

• Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across departments.
•  Design and implement new processes to monitor trading performance.
• To act a responsible point of contact for managing day-to-day facilities and building issues.
• Management of external contracts relating to facilities and running of the organisation. 
• Review environmental considerations of the organisation in-line with the requirements and policies of our funders, landlords and partner organisations.
• Support the administration of session bookings, liaising with finance and management colleagues.

2. Compliance and Governance:

• Working as part of the charity’s Safeguarding team helping to ensure best practice across the charity’s activities and operations. (Appropriate training will be provided)
• Ensure the charity complies with relevant financial regulations and reporting requirements.
• Manage risk and protect the charity’s financial reputation and assets.
• Maintain accurate records and policies, working closely with trustees or board members.

FINANCE

3. Financial Management and Planning:

• Prepare and manage budgets in collaboration with the leadership team.
• Monitor and control income and expenditure to ensure financial sustainability.
• Develop financial forecasts and plans to support strategic decision-making.
• Manage invoicing, liaising with external clients and contractors with respect to debt management, reviewing and improving booking processes where necessary. 

4. Accounting and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate financial records and oversee day-to-day bookkeeping.
• Prepare monthly management accounts, including variance analysis.
• Produce annual financial statements and manage the year-end accounting process.

5. Donor and Grant Management:

• Track restricted and unrestricted funding, ensuring proper allocation and reporting.
• Provide financial reports and updates for donors and grant applications.

PEOPLE

6. Supporting Stakeholders:

• Work closely with trustees and the senior leadership team, providing clear insights.
• Contribute to the charity's overall strategic planning and growth.
• Attend board meetings, ensuring accurate minutes and record keeping.

7. Leadership and Team Support:

• Work closely with Senior Management colleagues to provide strategic advice and insights.
• Manage and support staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Lead by example, promoting the charity’s values and mission in all actions.

COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY

• Work with the team to drive sales, pursue new clients and increase the charity’s earned income, collaborating with Programme, Membership and Marketing colleagues and the CEO to further the charity’s work.
• Lead on our engagement with the health and social care sector, including private and public organisations.
• Assist the CEO in submitting reports to funders, regulatory bodies, and trustees.
• Support the development of funding proposals with accurate financial input.
• Assist the CEO in building relationships with external partners and stakeholders, including corporate and commercial clients.

St James’s Church seeks an energetic and dedicated individual to launch a new Changemaker Programme, for which seed funding has been secured. The idea behind the programme is that creative leadership is urgently needed in society today; and a matter for the soul too. The invitation is to be part of the change that such leadership can bring. The vision is that by 2035, 50 changemakers, aged between 22-34, will be innovating, inspiring, and creating other changemakers in society, rooted in the character, values and vision of St James’s Piccadilly. It is not growing church leaders but leaders in society, intentionally bringing together young leaders from its five programme strands: Social Justice, Arts and Heritage, Music, Environment, Business.

The Director role has responsibility for the promotion, implementation, sustainability of, and reporting for the Changemakers programme. The essential requirements are leadership of an organisation with an education, charitable or community setting; ideally to have extensive operational programme and line management experience within the education or charitable sector; evidence of strategic thinking and business planning; evidence of delivering and or managing the delivery of events.

St James’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

St James’s actively welcomes applications from people who are currently underrepresented in our community including people with global majority heritage, people with lived experience of poverty and people who identify as LGBTQ+.

Role description and person specification can be downloaded at St James's website.

Please send full CV with a covering letter outlining your interest in the post and forward to Jane Gray, HR Advisor at St Jams's by midday Monday 16th June 2025 (Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete an application form in due course.)

Initial interviews are planned for Tuesday 24th June.

If you are interested in having a conversation about the role (before 16th June 2025) this is by arrangement with David Hamilton-Peters at the Parish Office.

Office based, London (with hybrid working)

6-month fixed term contract

Are you an experienced strategic leader ready to make an immediate impact? The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) is seeking an Interim Head of Membership Engagement and Strategy to lead a critical transformation of our membership and marketing functions. This is a unique opportunity to join a values-driven organisation at a pivotal moment and help shape how we engage, support, and grow our professional community.

Who we are

The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) is the professional body for speech and language therapists across the UK. The RCSLT has over 22,000 members and employs around 65 staff predominately based in a London office. The RCSLT also has offices in Belfast, Edinburgh, and Cardiff.

Our mission is to improve the lives of people with communication and swallowing needs by facilitating and promoting research, producing guidance, holding events, and influencing government. We aim to promote better education and training for speech and language therapists and provide information to our members and the public about speech and language therapy.

The role

The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) is looking for an experienced professional to review and transform our current membership and marketing functions. In this pivotal role, you’ll shape and deliver a unified, efficient, and future-focused engagement strategy that reflects the evolving needs of our members.

You will lead and support a talented team, which includes the Enquiries Team and the Membership and Marketing Manager, ensuring we have the right structures, systems, and capacity in place to deliver outstanding service. Your leadership will enhance how we connect with members and customers - both online and offline - driving improved engagement, satisfaction, and retention.

If you're ready to make a lasting impact and build a high-performing, member-centric function, we’d love to hear from you.

What we are looking for

The ideal candidate will have a background and experience working within a membership organisation and have a clear understanding of what it takes to build a high-performing, member-focused function. You will bring strong time management skills, be self-motivated, highly organised, and capable of working efficiently both independently and as part of a team. Most importantly, you’ll understand the aims and values of the RCSLT and demonstrate the ability to embed these into your work and strategic approach.

If you're ready to bring fresh thinking, strategic insight, and strong leadership to a nationally respected professional body, we’d love to hear from you.

Please see the role brochure for more information on the required knowledge and experience necessary to be successful in the role.

What we can offer you

• A competitive starting salary
• Generous annual leave entitlement
• Excellent staff training and development opportunities
• Supportive and flexible working environment including, hybrid working arrangements
• Generous pension scheme
• Life insurance cover
• Season ticket loan scheme
• Eye care voucher scheme
• Family friendly employer including enhanced maternity and paternity leave
• Cycle to work scheme
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme and more!

How to apply

For more information and to apply online, please visit our recruitment portal.

Closing date: 5.00pm on Friday, 20th June 2025.

Interview date: w/c 30th June 2025 (held virtually).

Please note, we can only accept applications from those who have working rights in the UK, we cannot offer sponsorship for this role.

The role may close earlier than the stated deadline if we receive a high volume of applications.

We are committed to a fair, transparent, and inclusive recruitment process. All applications are handled with strict confidentiality to protect your privacy and encourage openness throughout the process.

The RCSLT is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. We aim to embed equity, diversity, and belonging practices throughout our recruitment and selection procedures. We strive to ensure everyone is valued equally for their contribution, experience, knowledge, and skills. We welcome applications from candidates of all different backgrounds.

Thrombosis UK is a small but impactful health charity focused on raising awareness, funding research, and supporting education around venous thromboembolism (VTE). With a team of just three staff and a dedicated Board, we are entering a transitional period and are seeking an Interim CEO to ensure smooth day-to-day operations and provide hands-on leadership while we recruit a permanent CEO.

This is a practical, sleeves-rolled-up role ideal for someone who is comfortable managing a small charity and supporting both strategy and admin. You’ll work closely with staff and trustees, maintain momentum across our programmes, and support stakeholder and beneficiary engagement. Fundraising and marketing experience are a plus.

While this is an interim post, applicants will be welcome to apply for the permanent CEO role when recruitment begins.

Join Boaz Trust as our first Head of Fundraising and lead the growth of a passionate, values-driven charity supporting people at risk of homelessness due to their immigration status. Help shape strategy, build relationships, and grow income to expand our impact across Greater Manchester.

At Boaz Trust, we believe everyone deserves a safe place to call home. For over 20 years, we’ve provided accommodation and specialist support to people who are facing homelessness and destitution because of their insecure or unresolved immigration status. Last year we worked with more than 600 people and, thanks to our dedicated support team, since April 2024 alone, 188 individuals now have somewhere safe to stay, instead of having no choice but to sleep outside.

We’re now looking for a strategic, relationship-driven fundraiser to join our senior team and shape a new phase of growth. As our first Head of Fundraising, you’ll play a vital role in transforming strong but reactive income streams into a thriving, sustainable programme that enables us to support more people, more effectively.

We have an engaged and generous supporter base, particularly among individuals, churches and other groups across Greater Manchester. Trusts and Foundations fundraising is also well established, with an experienced team member already in post. This new role will focus on strengthening and growing Individual Giving and Church/Community partnerships, both areas with significant potential. You’ll bring vision and strategy to supporter journeys, deepen engagement and stewardship, and explore opportunities in areas like Corporate Giving and Legacy fundraising.

This is a senior leadership role, reporting directly to the CEO and contributing to our wider organisational development. You’ll line manage our Senior Fundraising Officer, with the potential to expand the team as income grows. You’ll also work closely with our Advocacy and Communications Team to ensure supporter communications reflect our values and amplify our impact.

We’re looking for someone with experience in Individual Giving and relationship fundraising, who understands the power of storytelling, data, and connection. You’ll be a collaborative and empathetic leader, able to build trust with colleagues and inspire supporters. You might already be a Head of Fundraising or looking to step into your first senior role - either way, we’ll provide tailored support and professional development to help you succeed.

Above all, you’ll be someone who shares our belief in justice, compassion, and the dignity of every person. If you’re ready to make a lasting difference with and for people seeking sanctuary, we’d love to hear from you.

The Belay Foundation is a small charity with big ambitions to improve the lives of adoptive, special guardian and kinship care families. We deliver innovative trauma-responsive services that families value and we are looking for an experienced charity leader to take us through growth into the next chapter of our story. Please note that our closing date has changed to Wednesday 18th June. 

Relationships are at the heart of everything we do and we use DDP principles (Dyadic Developmental Practice) to train our staff and to inform how we deliver our services. 

• Job title: Chief Executive Officer - Interim
• Pay: £350 per day
• Location: Remote but quarterly in-person staff meetings in Bath/Wiltshire and annual trustee in-person meeting
• Hours: 2 days per week
• Length of contract: 1 year
• Start date: September 2025, negotiable
• Reporting to: Co-Chairs of Trustees
• Responsible for: Operational team of 3
• Recruitment closing date: 5pm Wednesday 18th June

Responsibilities:

• Leadership of the organisation and management of staff
• Holding the safeguarding of our children and their families at the heart of all we do
• Eliciting feedback from families and the wider beneficiary community to develop services
• Fundraising and income development
• Ensuring the financial management of the charity works towards greater sustainability
• Developing the organisational structure, its processes, and methods of service delivery
• Delivery of accreditation as required e.g., DDP (Dyadic Development Practice) and CPD (Continuing Professional Development)
• Protecting the reputation of the organisation, constantly improving processes and procedures
• Improving service efficiency and maintaining compliance e.g. GDPR
• Overseeing public relations activity
• Developing all of the above with an eye to environmental sustainability
• Other responsibilities as designated by the Trustees

Who we are looking for:

We are looking for an experienced charity leader to hit the ground running with some knowledge or awareness of the families that we support and the issues that they face. Most importantly we are looking for experience of financial management, fundraising, staff management and strategic development to help our organisation grow and thrive into the next 5 years and beyond.

Essential experience:

• Knowledge or awareness of children in permanence who have been in the care
• system for example in adoption, special guardianship or kinship care families
• Leadership within a growing organisation
• Leadership and management of staff and volunteers
• Fundraising and diversifying income
• Financial management
• IT literacy

Desirable experience:

• Familiarity with Dyadic Developmental Practice
• Development of systems that enable good processes and communication across the
• organisation
• Partnership working with other organisations e.g. charities and local authorities
• Attributes and skills:
• High levels of empathy for different experiences
• Ability to prioritise
• Ability to engage and motivate a team
• Professionalism
• Communication to different audiences from families to press statements
• Ability to ask for help and understand own limitations
• Capacity for self-reflection
• Able to work flexibly in terms of hours
• Commitment to our values of empathy, respect, professionalism, learning, partnership, innovation

You will lead all aspects of charity financial and resource management for two separate but closely connected charities, the Army Cadet Charitable Trust UK (ACCT UK) and the Combined Cadet Force Association (CCFA), which are supported by a single head office team. We are looking for someone to bring enthusiasm, personal credibility, discretion and sensitivity. You will be ultimately responsible for Finance and Resource Management within the charities.
You will work directly with the trustees of both charities and the wider Senior Leadership Team (SLT) which comprises of the Director of Development, the Deputy Chief Executive (DCE) (Director of HR and Programmes), and the Chief Executive. You will have primary responsibility for ensuring that the charities meet their statutory obligations, that financial functions are well ordered and support the work of the charities.
Managing and leading a small and diverse team through high pressure periods including month end, year-end and annual budgeting, you require high emotional intelligence and excellent communication skills. You will work closely with staff at all levels, often having to mentor the charities’ managers to help them plan and manage their own budgets.
Your financial responsibilities are substantial as you will have overall control and responsibility for all financial matters. You will be thinking both strategically and seeing the big picture, whilst also analysing figures in detail to ensure that the financial management of both charities are sound. In periods of change and growth, it is critical that you are effective in coordinating corporate finance (funding sources, non-profit capital structuring and investment decisions) and managing charity policies regarding capital requirements to deliver against each charity’s objects and plans, taxation, equity and investments as appropriate.

THINK Consulting Solutions is launching a brand-new data function and we’re looking for an experienced leader to bring it to life and drive it forward.

As our first ever Director of THINK Data, you’ll build a new team, new services, and new ways of helping charities harness the power of data. You’ll bring leadership, commercial savvy, and a real understanding of how insight can transform fundraising, strategy, and impact.

From day one, you’ll sit on our senior leadership team, working closely with the Managing Director to grow this into a high-performing, income-generating pillar of our business.

This is a big role with big scope — ideal for someone with deep experience in data analytics, business development, and team leadership, especially within or aligned to the not-for-profit world.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Comprensive experience in data/insight roles at a senior level

• Proven track record of building and leading successful teams

• Confidence in developing data strategies and commercial services

• Strong communicator with a collaborative, solutions-focused style

If you are interested, please check out the Candidate Pack and apply via the Expression of Interest form on the THINK Careers page.

We will be hosting a webinar on Thursday 26th June for interested candidates to find out more. You can sign up to the webinar on THINK's Careers page. 

Stage 1 interviews will take place on Wednesday 23rd and Friday 25th July

Second stage will take place on Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th August

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Location: Eastleigh, Hampshire. Flexible, hybrid working

Salary: £50,000

Hours: 37 hours per week

Contract: Permanent

About us:

Learning through Landscapes is the UK’s leading school grounds charity, dedicated to enhancing outdoor learning and play for all. Our vision is a society where the benefits of regular time outdoors are valued and appreciated, and outdoor learning, play and connection with nature is recognised as a fundamental part of education, at every stage, for every child and young person.

We have unrivalled expertise based on three decades of experience, practical action and research. With offices in England and Scotland and staff based across the UK, our team and our accredited network of outdoor learning experts have the capacity to work nationally and internationally. Click HERE for more information.

What you’ll be doing:

As COO, you will play a critical leadership role in the strategic and operational success of LtL. You will work closely with the CEO and the management team to deliver the charity’s vision, overseeing day-to-day project delivery across the UK. You will take the lead for LtL H&S and Safeguarding responsibility alongside deputising for the CEO. It is essential you are happy to and would enjoy frequent travel across the UK.

Key Responsibilities

· Operational Leadership.

· Drive operational excellence and innovation in the charity’s systems, processes, and project infrastructure.

· Work closely with the CEO and senior leadership to translate strategic and project plans into operational delivery.

· Attend and contribute to the planning of board meetings.

· Deputise as CEO.

Project Management

· Oversee the delivery of multiple, complex projects, in all four home nations, ensuring timelines, budgets, and outcomes are met, and line manage project managers.

· Work on national programme implementation, including government contracts, charitable grants, and corporate-funded initiatives.

· Develop and manage project delivery plans, risk registers, evaluation processes, and resource allocation, health & safety, and safeguarding.

· Support the CEO and Finance Manager in budget planning, financial forecasting, and reporting for projects.

· Ensure projects are run within guidelines and legal responsibilities, including data protection, GDPR, health and safety, and charity governance.

· Act as the operational safeguarding lead, working closely with the charity’s Designated Safeguarding Leads to embed best practice in all areas of delivery.

· Work with the CEO to ensure safeguarding policies are robust, understood by all staff partners and network, and adhered to in all operational activities.

· Work with the CEO on contract negotiation and management.

Systems and Operational Development

· Lead the development and improvement of internal systems and processes to support efficient, effective, and collaborative working across the charity.

· Oversee the use and optimisation of IT and digital tools for internal communication and project coordination.

· Embed a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring systems are user-friendly, fit for purpose, and compliant with data protection and other regulations.

People and Culture

· Line manage project managers across the UK, fostering a positive and values-led organisational culture rooted in inclusion, equity, and safeguarding.

· Coordinate leadership and professional development for staff, partners and networks.

· Champion true diversity, equity, and inclusion across all operational activities.

Stakeholder and Partnership Management

· Act as a senior representative for LtL at external meetings, events, and with funders or partners.

· Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, local authorities, funders, and delivery partners.

· Represent LtL in national forums, working groups, and networks relevant to education and the environment.

Travel

· Regular travel across the UK to support project delivery, engage with stakeholders, and lead regional teams with occasional international travel.

· Regular overnight stays required.

What you need

Essential

· Proven experience in a senior operational role, preferably within the charity, education, or environmental sector.

· Track record of successfully managing complex, multi-partner projects at a national or regional scale.

· One or both of Safeguarding and Health & Safety training qualifications.

· Excellent leadership, line management, and team development skills.

· Outstanding project management skills including budgeting, planning, evaluation, and reporting.

· Strong understanding of governance, safeguarding, and risk management in a not-for-profit context.

· Embody LtL friendly and inclusive culture of support and kindness.

· Ability to influence and inspire with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

· Willingness and ability to travel regularly across the UK and occasionally internationally.

Desirable

· Knowledge of outdoor learning, environmental education, or play-based pedagogy.

· Experience of working with schools or in the education sector.

· Familiarity with charity finance and CRM systems.

· Qualification in project management (e.g. Prince2, Agile, or similar).

If you don’t have all of the above but feel it could be the role for you, talk to us!

What we offer:

· Flexible working.

· Holiday, 28 days + bank holidays + a “birthday gift” day.

· Laptop, phone and all travel & subsistence expenses.

· Family & carer friendly policies.

· Annual training package including: LtL Professional Accreditation in Outdoor Learning and Play, LtL Climate School 180 Network Training package.

· Sick pay.

· Salary sacrifice pension scheme – 5% employer contribution.

· Subsidised Christmas meal.

· A supportive and welcoming team of colleagues, including our 20+ Delivery Team members.

We’re an equal opportunities employer. All suitable applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

We are actively seeking to increase diversity within our workforce and are committed to recruiting the best people on the objective basis of their skills, ability and experience. We offer a guaranteed interview to eligible applicants who choose to opt-in to the scheme and can demonstrate that they have at least 5 out of the 9 from the “what you need - essentials” list. To be eligible to apply via the Guaranteed Interview Scheme, you must be from an ethnic minority. Please state clearly in your covering letter if you are applying under the Guaranteed Interview Scheme.

We are happy to support with any reasonable adjustments that are needed within the recruitment process.

Independent Age is the national charity focused on improving the lives of people facing financial hardship in later life. We believe no one should face financial hardship in later life.

Our Helpline and expert advisers offer free, practical support to older people without enough money to live on. Through our grants programme, we support local organisations working with older people across the UK.  

We use the knowledge and insight gained from our support services and partnerships to highlight the issues experienced by older people in poverty and campaign for change. 

We would love to find individuals from all walks of life and diverse backgrounds to join us on this journey.

Responsibilities and Person Specification:

The Head of Governance will lead the charity’s small Governance and Risk, and Facilities teams. They are responsible for governance, company secretarial, risk management, health and safety, safeguarding, information governance, procurement and contracts management, business continuity planning, and management of facilities and the charity's office and small portfolio of other properties.

The role would suit someone who enjoys a broad remit and working with colleagues across the charity, who can think around issues and implement pragmatic solutions. As the role has a wide remit, the ability to learn quickly will be key. Candidates will need senior level experience of charity governance, risk management and safeguarding, ideally working with adults at risk. Applicants will need to be good communicators, verbally and in writing.

This role is 0.5FTE (17.5 hours per week). There is some flexibility around how the hours can be worked, but hours would normally be worked across 2.5 days a week, with attendance required at specific times for management and trustee meetings. Office attendance will be required on average 2 days a week for meetings and due to responsibility for office management. 

For full details on the role and requirements, please review the job description and person specification.  If your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all of the criteria in the person specification but you do meet most of them and are excited about the role, we encourage you to apply anyway. 

What it’s like to work at Independent Age:

We celebrate diversity at Independent Age and champion the differences that make each of us unique. We actively support and encourage people from a variety of backgrounds, experiences and skill sets to join us and help shape what we do. We aim to attract and retain a wide range of talent and create an environment where everyone can feel safe, protected, welcome and included.

We offer great benefits including 28 days annual leave plus public holidays (pro-rata), a generous pension scheme with life assurance, and fantastic learning and development opportunities. We also offer a number of enhanced leave provisions and benefits.

We know that a good work life balance helps us perform at our best and supports wellbeing. We support flexible working hours and hybrid working where possible within the requirements of the role. If there is a form of flexibility that you need, we are always happy to talk flexible working.

You can find out more about what it’s like to work at Independent Age on the Careers Page of our website. 

Application Process:

To apply, please visit our website to submit a CV and a Supporting Statement, detailing how your skills and experience meet the criteria within the Job Description and Person Specification (please do not hesitate to contact us if you have specific requirements and need support to apply in an alternative format).

To support our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion our hiring managers use anonymous shortlisting. Therefore, please do not include your name, photo, or information to indicate your gender or age in your CV and supporting statement. Please do not omit dates of employment. Please ensure the title of any uploads does not contain your name. 

Independent Age is committed to safeguarding and follows Safer Recruitment practices to ensure we are safeguarding those we work with. We therefore ask that you supply your full work history with explanations for any gaps in the application documents you submit and, if offered the post, we will require two employment references including your current or most recent employer. A Basic DBS Certificate check will be required for this role.

Closing Date: Sunday 22 June, 11:59pm

Interview Dates: First interviews will be held at our offices on 2nd and 3rd July. We anticipate a final interview stage to take place the following week, on Thursday 10th July.