Jobs for the Arts, Culture and Heritage sector

Bid Writer — The Heritage Alliance

Application Deadline: 22 May 2026

Fixed Term: 0.4 FTE (14 hours per week) for 6 months 

Start Date: June 2026 

Salary: £33,000 FTE per annum, pro-rata (£6600 total for the contract period) 

Leave: 24 days FTE per annum pro-rata, in addition the Heritage Alliance Office closes between Christmas and New Year 

Line Manager: Head of Development and Membership 

Place of Work: The Heritage Alliance Office, Central London, EC4M 
(Flexible working arrangements can be considered) 

The Opportunity

Are you an experienced bid writer looking for an intensive, focused role with a leading heritage organisation? We are seeking a skilled professional to join our "Creating Connections" project team for a targeted 6-month assignment.

This role is part of The Heritage Alliance's NLHF-funded resilience project, specifically supporting Strand C: Future-proofing our charity. You will work with a pipeline of funding opportunities already developed by our professional fundraising consultant to secure vital long-term funding for our sector support activities.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced bid writer to make a significant impact in a short time-frame, working with high-quality prospects and supporting England's heritage sector through sustainable funding solutions. 

About The Role

Key Tasks:

Research & Development

• Conduct detailed research on prospective funders to tailor applications effectively 
• Develop compelling case studies and evidence base to support funding applications 
• Research and incorporate relevant sector data, impact statistics, and beneficiary testimonials 
• Stay informed about current funding trends and opportunities in the heritage and charity sectors 
• Identify additional funding opportunities that align with our strategic priorities

Strategic Bid Writing 

• Develop compelling funding applications to trusts, foundations, and grant-making bodies using an established pipeline of prospects 
• Write high-quality proposals for long-term support of the Heritage Funding Directory 
• Create applications for new sector-wide support programmes addressing skills needs and emerging challenges identified in our sector capability-building strategy 
• Adapt proposals to different funder requirements, priorities, and application formats 
• Work closely with the Head of Development to ensure applications align with organisational strateg

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration 

• Work with a professional fundraising consultant to prioritise and progress pipeline opportunities 
• Collaborate with the Heritage Alliance senior team to gather project information and organisational data 
• Engage with relevant staff members to collect evidence, case studies, and impact data 
• Coordinate with the Project Administrator and other team members to ensure consistency in messaging 
• Liaise with potential funders as appropriate during the application process 

Project Support & Administration 

• Maintain accurate records of all funding applications and their progress 
• Manage application deadlines and submission processes 
• Support the development of a sustainable fundraising strategy for post-project continuation 
• Contribute to project reporting and evaluation activities 
• Participate in project team meetings and provide updates on fundraising progress 

Key Competences: 

Experience: 

Essential:

• Proven track record of successful bid writing with demonstrable results in securing funding 
• Experience writing applications to trusts, foundations, and statutory funders 
• Strong background in the charity/not-for-profit sector with understanding of funding landscape 
• Experience managing multiple applications simultaneously and meeting tight deadlines 
• Knowledge of different application formats and funder requirements 

Desirable: 

• Experience in the heritage, cultural, or arts sectors 
• Previous work with membership organisations or sector support bodies 
• Experience with capacity-building or infrastructure funding applications 
• Knowledge of NLHF and other major heritage funders 
• Experience working with professional fundraising consultants 
• Understanding of digital heritage projects and online resource development 

Skills, Abilities and Knowledge: 

Essential: 

• Exceptional written communication skills with ability to adapt tone and style for different audiences, and present detailed information clearly and concisely 
• Strong research skills and ability to quickly understand complex organisational contexts 
• Excellent project management skills with ability to prioritise and meet multiple deadlines 
• High attention to detail and accuracy in application preparation 
• Understanding of charity finance, governance, and impact measurement 
• Ability to work independently and take initiative in a fast-paced environment 
• Strong interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement and collaboration 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of heritage sector challenges, funding landscape, and policy environment 
• Understanding of digital transformation and accessibility requirements for online resources 
• Experience with monitoring and evaluation frameworks 
• Knowledge of social impact measurement and outcome reporting 
• Familiarity with Data Protection legislation and compliance requirements 
• Understanding of partnership working and collaborative funding approaches

Application Process

To apply, please submit a CV/resume detailing your qualifications and experiences together with a cover letter (to be pasted into the box labelled 'Anything else to mention').

All applications should be submitted through our WorkSmarter vacancy page by 22 May 2026.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted w/c 25 May to arrange interviews. We will also request that shortlisted candidates provide a portfolio of successful funding applications (anonymised as appropriate) demonstrating your track record and writing style. 

The Heritage Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities.

Thank you for considering a career at The Heritage Alliance. We look forward to receiving your application!

About the Heritage Alliance 

Established in 2002, The Heritage Alliance represents the independent heritage movement in England. We have a unique role, promoting and championing the sector in all its diversity: 

We influence legislation and policy through our extensive links with Government, Parliament and Sector Networks 

We bring the sector together in our advocacy and working groups, events and publications 

We help our members grow through both member-only initiatives and broader sector support programmes with partners like the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, Media Trust and Clore Leadership. 

Our membership ranges from large bodies such as the National Trust, Historic Houses, Canal & River Trust to specialist charities and community organisations, across the breadth of sector, from museums, conservation, archaeology to science and construction. 

Farm Advisor – Green Finance FINCH
£13,034 and £17,378.67 (FTE £32,585 per annum) + 7% pension contribution
Shrewsbury, Shropshire

8 Months Fixed Term Contract
Part Time - 21 (0.6) - 28 hours (0.8) hours per week

Closing date 12noon on 21st May 2026.
Interviews will be held on 2nd June 2026.

This is initially a fixed-term role, with the possibility of extension subject to the continued development, funding and success of the Land Management Advice Service

We have secured funding from Natural England to explore how private finance and new farm‑based business opportunities can help reduce environmental pressures on the River Clun Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and inform a possible future Protected Site Strategy (PSS) for the area. This project is known as FINCH (Facilitating Investment in Natural Clun Habitats).

What you will be doing:

This exciting role involves managing the day-to-day delivery of the FINCH project, including developing and maintaining strong relationships with participating farmers and external consultants, and ensuring all work is delivered to agreed timescales, budgets and reporting standards.

You will play a key role in facilitating learning and deepening understanding of emerging nature markets, engaging a wide range of audiences including farmers, landowners, colleagues and partners. A central aspect of the role is building and maintaining positive relationships with farmers and landowners to support wildlife friendly farming, habitat creation and maintenance and to encourage land use change where appropriate. You will also provide land management and farm advice, taking practical action across a range of settings to benefit different habitats including riparian corridors and river systems.

Working collaboratively with colleagues, you will contribute to the ongoing development of Land Management Advisory Service, help identify and engage new clients and strengthen support for nature-friendly farming practices. You will also support the development and implementation of systems for evaluation and feedback from landowners and farm managers.

In addition, the role involves delivering practical on-farm measures through third-party funding, supporting farm businesses to access government and environmental assurance schemes and undertaking farm surveys and whole-farm planning focused on the delivery of environmental goods.

What you will bring:

• A degree in Agriculture or a related countryside discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
• Project management experience, with a track record of delivering projects to agreed timescales, budgets and outcomes.
• Experience providing agricultural advice and management support, including knowledge of Government grant schemes and emerging Nature Finance Markets.
• Experience in delivering environmental and wildlife sensitive farm surveys and whole farm management plans.
• Willingness to travel across the county to engage with farmers, landowners and colleagues as required.
• Excellent communication skills, supported by strong IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office functions such as Word, Excel, Outlook, email and the internet.
• Full current UK driving licence.

The Trust is committed to building an equal, diverse and inclusive workforce we encourage applications from a diverse range of suitably qualified candidates.  Please let us know if you require any adjustments to make our recruitment process more accessible.

Why work for us - benefits we offer:

• 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays and Service related holiday (pro-rated for part time staff)
• Salary sacrifice benefits
• Life assurance
• Generous pension - company contribution 7%, employee contribution 3%
• Enhanced Sick Pay
• Flexible working policy
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Staff discounts
• Employee away days
• Enhanced pay for maternity and adoption leave
• Coaching 
• Support with training and development to assist career progression
• Inclusive & supportive work atmosphere

About us:

We combine projects across Shropshire (including Telford & Wrekin) with advocacy and campaigning to restore nature and to engage people. We manage over 40 nature reserves and have almost 50 staff, 300 volunteers, and over 9000 members. We are an autonomous charity, but we are increasingly working collectively, to ensure that our local actions have a national impact and help to address global issues.

The National Museum of Computing (TNMoC) is an independent charity located at the heart of Bletchley Park and home to the world’s largest collection of working historic computers, including the rebuilt Colossus and the WITCH (the world’s oldest working digital computer). TNMoC has strengthened its national reputation, achieved Arts Council England accreditation, expanded educational reach and continued to care for artefacts of exceptional historic and technical significance and is now seeking its next leader.

As Museum Director, you will be the senior executive leader for TNMoC, responsible for its overall strategic, operational and financial performance. You will deliver the Board-approved 3-year strategy, ensure financial sustainability, and lead the organisation in delivering an exceptional visitor, educational and community experience, while acting as an ambassador.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead delivery of the museum’s strategic plan.
• Provide oversight of operations, ensuring safe, efficient, high-quality delivery and robust compliance, risk management and business continuity. 
• Ensure strong financial stewardship.
• Lead the diversification of sustainable income streams, actively seeking new opportunities for growth and resilience.

To succeed in this role, you will bring significant leadership experience in museums or visitor attractions, with a strong track record of delivering strategy, growing income and building partnerships. You will also be hands-on, comfortable leading a small organisation while maintaining excellent governance, operational standards and public benefit.

Please see the candidate pack for full details.

For an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Executive Director of Charisma Charity Recruitment.

Key dates:

• Closing date: Wednesday 27th May 2026
• First stage interviews with TNMoC: w/c 15th June
• Second stage interviews with TNMoC: w/c 22nd June

Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by EOD on the 4th June prior to longlist submission on the 5th June.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

Our Room is a values-driven, creative support community working with male, trans and non-binary people who do sex work: an often-hidden population experiencing some of the highest levels of homelessness, trauma, poor mental health and social exclusion in Manchester. For twenty years, we have been a trusted, specialist service providing intensive advocacy alongside creative, developmental programmes that help participants stabilise their lives and imagine new futures.

As a Manchester-based organisation, we are the only organisation in the UK whose core mission is to support male, trans and non-binary people who do sex work. We believe that everyone who sex works deserves dignity, respect and safety.

We are seeking someone who can bring together clear strategic thinking and hands-on-leadership to inspire our staff team and represent the charity externally across key sectors and partnerships. This is an opportunity to lead a unique and vital organisation supporting male, trans and non-binary people who sex work.

The CEO acts as the primary external ambassador for the organisation, maintaining partnerships across housing and homelessness, sex work and VCSE sectors. The role is responsible for establishing our inclusive, values-led culture and is accountable for ensuring the charity delivers impact for male, trans and non-binary people who sex work. 

The Hampstead Garden Suburb Trust protects, maintains and enhances the unique character of Hampstead Garden Suburb - an internationally important example of early 20th-century town planning and architecture.

The Architectural Support Officer plays a central role in this work. You will support the day-to-day operation of the Trust’s consent process, helping applicants and their advisers with applications, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring decisions are communicated clearly, professionally and with authority.

This is a varied role combining administration, public-facing work and exposure to architecture and conservation. It would suit someone with an interest in the built environment and heritage who enjoys detailed work and engaging with the public.

The role supports a high volume of applications across the Suburb and is central to the Trust’s day-to-day operation.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

Architectural and technical support

• Support the architectural team in reviewing applications, including preparing summaries and assisting with research and policy.
• Maintain a strong working understanding of the Trust’s Design Guidance and relevant policies.
• Assist applicants in understanding how proposals align with the Trust’s requirements while being clear about the Trust’s role and the limits of advice that can be provided.
• Attend occasional site visits with colleagues to view properties and proposals.
• There will be opportunities to contribute to talks and events, depending on interests and experience.

Application and consent process

• Manage the administration of applications for Trust consent, ensuring they are registered, validated and processed efficiently.
• Act as a first point of contact for applicants and their advisers, providing clear guidance on process and requirements.
• Calculate and process application fees; raise invoices and maintain accurate financial records.
• Notify neighbours and manage consultation processes in line with Trust procedures.
• Prepare and issue decision letters and consent documentation.
• Track applications through each stage of the process, ensuring deadlines and actions are monitored and progressed.

Committee and governance support

• Prepare and circulate papers for Plans Committee and Trust Council.
• Take clear and accurate minutes and support follow-up actions.
• Assist in the preparation of reports and recommendations.

Records and systems

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of applications, decisions and property information.
• Support ongoing improvements to record-keeping, processes and digital systems.
• Ensure documentation is well organised, accessible and compliant with Trust requirements.

Team and office contribution

• Respond to general enquiries from residents by phone, email and in person.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to support the smooth running of the Trust office.
• Undertake any other duties relevant to the role as required.

Alongside ensuring the effective delivery of campaigns and income targets, the Interim Head of Marketing will play a key role in stewarding and embedding the organisation’s evolving narrative. The successful candidate will be expected to operate with pace and authority, maintaining performance while also understanding and supporting a broader cultural shift in how the organisation presents itself to audiences, supporters and the wider community.

The Interim Head of Marketing will lead the delivery of an integrated marketing and communications function that drives:
• Strong and consistent box office performance
• High-quality, meaningful audience engagement
• Clear articulation of Exeter Northcott Theatre’s charitable mission

Crucially, the role will ensure that all marketing activity reflects and reinforces the organisation’s transition towards a mission-first narrative - where income generation supports impact and where audiences are invited not only to attend, but to connect, participate and support.

At Allsorts Gloucestershire, we’re on a mission to tackle the inequalities faced by disabled children, young people and their families. We’re a respected, values-driven charity with a strong local reputation and we’re looking for a Co-Head of Services - Transitions & YuGo to help shape the future of our work.

This is a senior leadership role with real impact. You’ll work alongside our Co-Head of Services - Early Intervention to lead and develop services for young people aged 11–25, while also growing YuGo, our innovative income-generating activity programme.

 About the role

This s a unique opportunity to combine strategic leadership with hands-on delivery.

You will:

• Lead inclusive sports, youth and activity programmes for disabled young people aged 11–25
• Support young people to build confidence, independence and meaningful relationships
• Co-lead organisational services, ensuring quality, safeguarding and impact
• Drive the growth and sustainability of YuGo, balancing income generation with social purpose
• Shape service design, partnerships and future strategy
• Be committed to continued professional development

You’ll also lead a passionate team of managers, coaches, activity leaders and support staff - creating a culture of inclusion, collaboration and continuous improvement.

What we’re looking for

This role would suit someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, enjoys balancing strategy with delivery, and is passionate about inclusive youth services.  We would also consider 30 hours per week.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Circa 5 years experience of working in sports, arts, youth, social care or related charitable setting
• Proven leadership experience with line management responsibility
• Knowledge of and ability to show empathy towards the needs of families who have disabled children and/or children with additional needs
• Experience of working with disabled children - developing and facilitating groups and/or activities
• Knowledge of working/liaising with statutory and voluntary agencies, and evidence of good networking skills
• Ability to deal appropriately with sensitive issues and confidential information
• Ability to keep records, written and electronic
• Car driver with access to personal transport for travel purposes

Desirable Skills & Experience

• A degree equivalent qualification in sports, arts, youth work, social work, SEND education, teaching, care/support work or similar
• Training in autistic spectrum disorders is advantageous
• Level 3 Safeguarding - experienced designated or deputy designated safeguarding lead
• Experience of managing project budgets and/or commercial activity
• Lived experience, as a disabled person or a parent of a disabled child/young person

Why join Allsorts?

• Make a real, lasting impact in young people’s lives
• Shape services in a senior leadership role
• Be part of a supportive, values-led organisation
• Strong commitment to inclusion, accessibility and lived experience

We actively welcome applications from disabled people and parent/carers of disabled children and young people.

CLOSING DATE

17th May 2026

We aim to provide a positive and transparent recruitment experience and will keep you informed throughout the process.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

We actively encourage people with disabilities and from diverse backgrounds to apply for our jobs. Our offices and interview space are fully accessible, with a Changing Places toilet and accessible parking. All job literature is available in alternative formats upon request. We welcome potential applicants to have a conversation with us about any interview adaptations they may need. 

Safeguarding & Practical Requirements

• Appointment is subject to an Enhanced DBS check. 
•  A full, valid driving license is required, as regular travel to offsite locations is an essential part of the role. Reasonable adjustments will be considered for candidates with disabilities. 
• The role includes a mix of on-site, off-site and some hybrid working.

Interested?

Ready to make a real difference?

Fine Cell Work is a charity transforming the lives of people in prison and post-release through training in high quality, creative, commercial needlework. Handmade products are sold to public and to designers, artists, and heritage organisations, many of whom commission bespoke pieces. Customer demand for these products continues to grow. 

Our frontline services are delivered by a team of talented and dedicated volunteers across the country, making possible the transformational work that we do. Volunteers bring a wide range of experience, skills, and expertise. We offer a range of volunteering opportunities from teaching in prison to production and commissions support, to events, sales, and pop-up shops.

Core Job Purpose: 

Fine Cell Work is seeking a highly organised and people-focused Volunteer Coordinator to provide administrative support for a community of 100+ volunteers nationally. Based at our head office in Battersea, this role is central to ensuring a positive, efficient, and engaging volunteer experience - from recruitment and onboarding through to retention and ongoing support - and makes possible the realisation of our organisational mission.

Whilst acting as the first point of contact for general enquires about volunteering opportunities across the organisation, including with workshop, events, commissions, and production teams, the Volunteer Coordinator will act as the primary point of contact for volunteers working in prison, handling queries, maintaining up to date records, and triaging concerns to the appropriate members of the team.

This position requires strong administrative skills, excellent communication, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a supportive and professional approach. 

Principal Accountabilities for the Core Job: 

Volunteer Recruitment & Onboarding 

• Coordinate end-to-end volunteer recruitment processes for all volunteer roles, including advertising, screening applications, and scheduling interviews 
• Manage all correspondence with prospective prison volunteers, ensuring a welcoming and professional experience 
• With the Senior Programmes and Impact Officer, support the creation of a regularly updated volunteer information pack and ensure all new prison volunteers receive it at least 7 days prior to their FCW volunteer training 
• Coordinate and timetable onboarding processes for prison volunteers, including induction administration, prison vetting, training sessions, and the distribution of materials 
• Maintain accurate records of all applicants and volunteers (across all roles) 

Volunteer Administration 

• Maintain and update all volunteer contact details
• Process all volunteer expenses
• Using Volunteero, track volunteer participation, hours, and engagement levels 
• Ensure all required documentation (e.g. references and vetting information for prison volunteers) is collected and securely stored 
• Using Volunteero, support scheduling and coordination of volunteer shifts in prison and across other activities including reflective practice; training; event attendance etc.

Volunteer Support & Retention 

• Act as the primary point of contact for Fine Cell Work volunteers working in prison, responding to queries in a timely and supportive manner 
• Build strong relationships with volunteers across all teams
• Coordinate regular check-ins, feedback collection, and recognition initiatives for volunteers across all teams e.g. for Volunteer Week 
• Lead on the coordination of the annual Fine Cell Work Volunteer Lunch 

Triage & Internal Coordination 

• Receive and assess volunteer questions, concerns, and feedback, via phone, email and Volunteero reports, determining the appropriate course of action
• Handle, escalate, or direct issues to relevant team members (e.g. Senior Programmes and Impact Officer / prison contacts / Production team / events or the Director of Programmes) as needed
• Any other ad hoc administrative or organisational tasks as required

The following knowledge and skills have been identified for the role: 

Essential knowledge, skills and experience:

• Experience in volunteer coordination, administration, or a similar people-focused role 
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills 
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism 
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to triage and prioritise effectively 
• Proficiency in standard office software and database systems 
• Proactive and solution-oriented 

Personal attributes: 

• Collaborative, empathetic and approachable, with a genuine interest in supporting volunteers 
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written 
• Friendly and approachable
• Detail oriented 
• Authoritative, calm, flexible and adaptable 
• Able to work with an experienced and established team
• Commitment to aims and ethos of Fine Cell Work 

This post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore applicants are required to declare: All unspent cautions and/or unspent convictions. 

Play a central role in supporting teachers and safeguarding students at a growing, high-quality music school.

This is a practical, hands-on role combining pastoral judgement with detailed operational work. You’ll handle sensitive situations with care and clarity, while maintaining the systems and processes that underpin consistent, high-quality practice.

Greenwich Music School delivers lessons to hundreds of students each week across our venues, partner schools, and online. As we grow, we are looking for a Teacher Support & Pastoral Lead to take ownership of day-to-day safeguarding, behaviour, and teacher support work - alongside the policies, records, and processes that support it.

You will be the first point of contact for many teacher and safeguarding-related issues, handling routine and moderately complex situations independently. You’ll be expected to make decisions using judgement and policy, rather than relying on escalation in most day-to-day cases, while recognising when to involve the Principal.

Alongside casework, a significant part of the role is maintaining and improving the systems behind it - including safeguarding records, compliance processes, onboarding, and documentation.

This role sits at the centre of how we support both students and teachers. It requires calm judgement, strong communication, and the ability to balance sensitivity with clarity, structure, and consistency.

What the role involves

• Acting as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead, supporting the Principal (DSL)
• Managing safeguarding concerns day-to-day, including recording, follow-up, and appropriate escalation
• Acting as first point of contact for teacher concerns, including behaviour and pastoral issues
• Supporting teachers to handle challenging situations with students and families, including setting clear expectations and boundaries where needed
• Maintaining and improving safeguarding systems, including the Single Central Record, DBS and ID checks, and training records
• Taking ownership of key policies (safeguarding, behaviour, inclusion, online safety), ensuring they are practical, up to date, and consistently applied
• Managing teacher onboarding processes, including compliance checks and induction
• Co-ordinating training sessions and teacher events (logistics, communication, records)
• Maintaining the teacher handbook and communicating updates clearly
• Working alongside the SEND lead and Principal to support teachers working with students with additional needs
• Identifying and implementing improvements to processes, policies, and day-to-day practice

What success looks like

• Safeguarding concerns are handled consistently, with clear records and appropriate follow-up
• Compliance systems (SCR, DBS, training) are accurate and reliably maintained
• Teachers feel supported and clear on expectations
• Policies are up to date and reflected in day-to-day practice
• Onboarding and training processes run smoothly
• Day-to-day matters are handled confidently, with escalation where appropriate

About you

You are comfortable handling sensitive situations and making sound judgements without needing detailed instruction. You can communicate clearly and calmly, including when conversations are difficult or require you to hold boundaries.

You are organised and thorough, with strong attention to detail, and you follow things through to completion. You are equally comfortable maintaining detailed records and improving the systems behind them.

You are motivated by clarity and consistency - and by helping others work effectively within a well-run structure.

You will likely bring:

• Experience handling behaviour, safeguarding, or pastoral issues in a professional setting
• Confidence making independent, policy-informed decisions
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• High attention to detail and strong organisational skills
• An understanding of safeguarding principles and professional boundaries
• The ability to work independently in a remote-first environment

Experience in education, SEND support, or safeguarding compliance is helpful but not essential.

Additional details

• Hybrid working, with regular in-person time in Greenwich (typically weekly, especially during onboarding)
• Reports to the Principal, and works closely with the Operations Manager

Portsmouth Cathedral is a historic and active place of worship and community, serving the City, Diocese and wider public.

As Head of Finance, you will provide strategic financial leadership as part of the Senior Management Team and supporting Chapter to strengthen financial planning, governance and sustainability. You will lead budgeting, forecasting and reporting, oversee compliance and audit, advise on financial risk, performance and sustainability, lead and develop the finance team and improve systems and processes, including potentially establishing a new trading company.

Essentials:

• ICAEW, ACCA or CIMA qualification or similar
• Demonstrable experience in strategic financial leadership, with a track record of leading financial governance, compliance, and team development
• Knowledge of VAT, tax planning, and advanced accounting practices
• Excellent verbal and written communicator
• Excellent analytical and reporting skills, proficient in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite
• Willingness to undertake some basic tasks as part of a small finance team
• Commitment to the highest standards of safeguarding, equal opportunities, and inclusivity

Empathy with the beliefs and values of the Christian Faith and the aims and objectives of the Cathedral.

Benefits:

• Flexible and annualised working arrangements
• 25 days annual leave (pro rata), plus 2 extra days in December and bank holidays + pension and healthcare plan

This role will suit a qualified accountant with strong technical expertise, strategic insight and the ability to operate effectively in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. For this role a basic safeguarding check will be required.

Please see the candidate pack for full details. For an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact: Katherine Anderson-Scott, Executive Director of Charisma Charity Recruitment.

• Closing date: Wednesday 20th May 2026
• Interviews with Portsmouth Cathedral: 10th or 11th June
• Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by EOD on 28th May prior to shortlist submission on 29th May

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.

We’re looking for someone passionate about community engagement to help build and strengthen relationships across Medway and Swale. In this role, you’ll connect with local audiences, carry out research to reach new communities, and collaborate with our team to deliver an inclusive and inspiring cultural programme.

Key Info:

● Full-time, 5 days per week (37.5 hours), and due to the nature of this programme, some weekend and evening work will be required
● Hybrid working with a minimum of 2 days per week in the Chatham-based Ideas Test office and regular travel to events/meetings at other locations.
● Salary: £28,000
● Holidays: 25 days holiday per year plus bank holidays.

As Audience Engagement Officer, your role will be to liaise, communicate and deepen relationships with our local communities. You will also carry out the necessary research and monitoring to reach our target audiences. You will work closely with the whole team, as we deliver a compelling, inclusive cultural programme for and with the people of Medway and Swale. We are seeking someone who shares our commitment to socially engaged practice and co-creation. Our work spans multiple art forms and ranges from small, intensive programmes to large-scale public works. We want to create authentic, impactful work with communities over the long term, experimenting and learning as we go. 

Key responsibilities:

• Working with Ideas Test Senior Producers to engage people in our neighbourhood programmes.

• Attend Ideas Test’s events: providing practical support to ensure a quality event, carrying out surveys and encouraging people to join the mailing list.

• Develop and maintain good relationships with community advocates and partners

• In collaboration with the Operations Manager and external evaluator, ensure that audience capture data and evaluation materials are collected and input.

• Maintain a social media presence with active engagement across a range of platforms.

• Ensure information about Ideas Test’s event is updated on the website and listed widely online and via newsletters. 

• Attend professional development training and other relevant opportunities

• Attend regular team meetings and contribute to the development and implementation of Ideas Test’s programme.

• Along with the rest of the team, help to develop, test, pilot and share learning across the programme partners and CPP peer learning networks and community networks (evaluation, audience data, models, case studies, toolkits and strategic documents)

• Be an enthusiastic advocate for the organisation and its work.

Essential:

• Excellent interpersonal skills

• The ability to communicate well across a variety of mediums

• The ability to work independently and with team members and partners

• Ability to work effectively under pressure, to multiple deadlines.

• Enthusiasm and commitment to inclusive and socially engaged arts practice

• Experience of using e-marketing / social media channels.

• Experience of managing and submitting online and offline event listings

• A high level of accuracy and attention to detail

• IT and digital skills

• Experience of working in similar or related environments

• Willingness to learn new skills and accept training.

• Prepared to work occasional unsociable hours (evening & weekend).

• Ability to travel across Medway and Swale

Desirable:

• Knowledge of analytic and insight tools to develop reach and engagement across digital platforms

• WordPress or similar content management systems to create, edit and maintain webpages

• Knowledge of Mailchimp, Canva, Adobe

• Knowledge and experience of CRM systems and databases

• Practical knowledge of data protection legislation

• Awareness of social inclusion strategies and issues

Applications must be received by the deadline of 12pm on Monday 18th May.  Interviews Monday 1st June. 

Ready to lead a finance function and play a pivotal role in shaping an organisation’s future?

Finance Manager
Contract type: Permanent
Working hours: Full Time - 37 hours per week
Salary: £45K - £50K per annum, negotiable dep on experience
Location: Head Office - Newton Aycliffe, DL5

About Us

Groundwork NE & Cumbria is a long established environmental and community charity with over 30 years of experience creating greener, healthier and more resilient places across the region. Our mission centres on Creating Better Places, Improving People’s Prospects, and Promoting Greener Living, helping communities thrive no matter the challenges they face.

We deliver hundreds of locally led projects each year, including initiatives that support young people and adults into education, training and employment, helping them overcome barriers, build life skills, and reach their full potential.

About You and The Role 

We are now seeking a forward thinking Finance Manager to lead our finance function and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our organisation. 

This is more than a finance role, it’s an opportunity to guide, influence and strengthen the financial sustainability of a charity creating meaningful, lasting change. The role requires strong financial management experience, including statutory reporting and VAT. Experience of charity accounting and SORP is desirable, but candidates from the private sector with the ability to learn charity‑specific requirements are welcome, further requirements of the role are provided below. 

As our Finance Manager, you will: 

• Provide financial leadership across the organisation, working closely with the Chief Executive, Trustees, and Senior Leaders. 

• Lead on financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and financial risk management. 

• Ensure robust financial controls, compliance with charity accounting standards (SORP), and oversee VAT, statutory requirements, and audits. 

• Manage and motivate the finance team, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement. 

• Strengthen financial systems, reporting, and automation to support operational efficiency. 

• Support project managers with financial planning, grant management, and contract delivery. 

• Drive improvements that support long term organisational sustainability. 

This is a high impact role that blends hands on leadership with strategic influence. 

We’re looking for an experienced and dynamic finance leader who brings: 

Essential 

• A recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent). 

• Experience delivering a wide range of finance duties, including management accounts, budgeting, strategic analysis, payroll and year end processes. 

• Experience managing finance teams. 

• Outstanding analytical, organisational, and financial planning skills. 

• Excellent communication skills, able to present complex information clearly to colleagues and trustees. 

• High integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the values and mission of the charity. 

Desirable 

• Experience in community-based grant funded projects. 

• Experience strengthening financial controls and supporting fundraising or contract bidding. 

• Knowledge of procurement procedures or state aid regulations. 

• Familiarity with Sage Intacct. 

Closing Date: Thursday, 14th May 2026
Interview Details: To be confirmed after the closing date. 
Please note: should we receive a high volume of applications, we may look to close the role early, therefore we recommend an early application. 

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

This role is subject to an Standard Disclosure endorsed by the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Make yourself at home

We want you to be yourself at Groundwork and we value everything that makes you unique. We recognise and celebrate your difference and together we make Groundwork a special and great place to work. As a Disability Confident employer we offer a guaranteed interview to applicants with a disability who meet the essential criteria for the role

At Groundwork we ensure that we provide a safe environment for adults, children and young people to take part in any activity or service that we organise. We are committed to creating a culture that promotes safeguarding and the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk. Our safer recruitment practices support this by ensuring that there is a consistent and comprehensive process of obtaining, collating, analysing and evaluating information from and about candidates to ensure that all the people we appoint are suitable to work with our children, young people and adults.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship – the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.

No agencies please.