Operations Officer - Bristol

We're looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Operations Officer to join our Operations team based in Bristol, on a maternity cover basis.  This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting the delivery and growth of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE), helping more young people access our life-changing programmes.
 

The role will begin with a comprehensive handover period alongside the current postholder, giving you the opportunity to build knowledge and confidence before taking full ownership of your portfolio.
 

As an Operations Officer, you will manage a portfolio of Licensed Organisations (LOs), primarily schools, but also colleges, local authorities, charities, youth groups, pupil referral units and youth justice settings.
 

Working closely with an experienced team of Operations Officers across England, you will provide day-to-day support, guidance and training to organisations, helping them deliver a high-quality DofE programme. You'll build strong relationships, support programme growth, drive participation and help ensure that more young people, particularly those facing barriers to participation, can benefit from the DofE experience.
 

This is a field-based role. When not attending meetings, events or visits, you will work remotely from home.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Build and maintain positive relationships with Licensed Organisations, providing ongoing support and guidance.
• Deliver induction, training and development opportunities for DofE staff and volunteers.
• Develop and implement action plans with partners to achieve both short and long-term objectives.
• Monitor performance, participation and targets using DofE management systems and reporting tools.
• Conduct regular online and face-to-face meetings with Licensed Organisations.
• Support licence reviews and contribute to the licensing of new organisations.
• Increase participation among young people from marginalised and underrepresented groups.
• Assist with grant applications, project monitoring and reporting requirements.
• Support national DofE events, including occasional overnight stays and weekend working.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the UK on projects and working groups.
• Support the delivery of the DofE strategy and England business plan.

What we are looking for:

We're looking for someone who is passionate about making a positive impact and who thrives on building strong partnerships and delivering excellent support.

• Excellent relationship-building skills with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong communication and influencing abilities.
• The confidence to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a team.
• Outstanding organisational and administrative skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Excellent written communication, proofreading and editing skills.
• Strong presentation and facilitation skills, both online and in person.
• A solution-focused approach and confidence to challenge poor practice when needed.
• The ability to analyse data, identify trends and take appropriate action.
• Good IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Successful applicants will:

• Hold a full UK driving licence and have access to a vehicle during the working week.
• Be willing to travel regularly across the portfolio area.
• Live within or close to the portfolio area. (please refer to the map in the job pack) 

Please Notes, This position is a 12 month contract