Executive director jobs

Play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the magistracy — and through it, the health of the justice system.

We are seeking an inspiring leader to become the next Chief Executive of the Magistrates’ Association, the only independent voice of magistrates in England and Wales.

The MA is a Royal Charter charity with around 12,000 members. For more than a century we have championed magistrates, supported their development, and spoken truth to power on behalf of the magistracy and the wider justice system.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a small, committed team and a wide network of trustees and volunteers at a moment of real change. After years of decline, magistrate numbers are growing again and their role is expanding. Following a major programme of modernisation, the MA is stronger, more visible, and ready to build on this momentum.

As Chief Executive, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership, working closely with the Board of Trustees

• Be a visible and authoritative advocate with government, judiciary, Parliament and the media

• Oversee the delivery of services and support that matter to members

• Lead the growth of our membership, engaging new magistrates and re-connecting with those who have left

• Ensure strong financial and organisational management of the Association

We are looking for an experienced and credible leader with:

• A track record of strategic leadership and organisational development

• Strong financial and business acumen

• The ability to influence at the highest levels and act as a public spokesperson

• Experience of growing a membership body or comparable organisation

• A clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

About Khulisa
Khulisa (meaning “to nurture” in Zulu) is an award-winning national charity. We work with young people aged 11–25 whose lives have been affected by trauma or adversity. Trauma can profoundly impact a young person’s development — limiting their self-confidence, resilience, and ability to thrive.

For more than 18 years, Khulisa has provided evidence-based programmes that build social and emotional skills, helping young people to overcome barriers and reach their potential. We also train professionals, parents and carers to create trauma-informed environments, ensuring that all young people are cared for by adults who understand and respond to their needs.

The Role
We are seeking an inspiring Chief Executive Officer to lead Khulisa into its next chapter. The CEO will provide strategic leadership, financial and operational oversight, and the vision to grow our impact — building on strong foundations and trusted partnerships.

We are looking for an individual with:

• Proven business development skills and the ability to diversify income.

• Significant experience in stakeholder engagement — including funders, statutory bodies and partners.

• A strong track record of leadership, with a commitment to collaboration, inclusivity, and professional development.

• The confidence to act as Khulisa’s primary spokesperson and ambassador, championing our trauma-informed, person-centred approach at every level.

Why Join Us?
This is a rare opportunity to lead a charity with deep, long-standing relationships and a growing national profile. The CEO will play a central role in shaping the future of Khulisa, ensuring we continue to nurture young people and the communities around them.

How to Apply
To apply, please read the last page of the Job Pack. If you have questions before applying you can send these to the email address listed in the Job Pack. Someone will then be in contact with you and arrange a time to speak. 

First-round interviews will start in the first week of November. 

Chief Executive — Help & Care
Location: Home-based within easy reach of Dorset (regular travel across the region)
Salary: circa £85,000 per annum
Contract: permanent, full-time (37 hours per week)

Are you ready to lead a values-driven regional charity and social enterprise that helps people to live the lives they choose?

Help & Care has been supporting communities across Dorset and the south coast since 1985. We deliver person-centred services that promote dignity, independence and connection - from dementia coordination and health coaching to our award-winning Roots gardening programme and social prescribing partnerships. Working with over 25 partners across health, housing and the voluntary sector, we co-produce services that make a real difference to older people, those with long-term conditions, carers and people at risk of isolation.

As our next Chief Executive, you will:

• Strategic leadership: Set and deliver a clear, values-led strategy that secures long-term impact and sustainable growth.
• Values leadership: Put Help & Care’s values - social justice, innovation, personal and collaborative - at the heart of decision-making and model them.
• Growth & income diversification: Lead business development, win new contracts, and develop social-enterprise opportunities to reduce reliance on public commissioning.
• Partnerships & advocacy: Strengthen senior-level relationships with NHS, local authorities and commissioners; represent Help & Care across systems, media and networks.
• Service quality & impact: Embed rigorous monitoring and evaluation so our outcomes drive commissioning, improve margins and strengthen our reputation.
• People leadership: Inspire, retain and develop a high-performing, compassionate leadership team and workforce.
• Governance & financial stewardship: Provide the Board with timely, high-quality reporting, oversee financial recovery plans, and ensure robust risk and compliance frameworks.

Who you are:

• An experienced CEO or senior director from complex, multi-service health & social care or community organisations.
• Proven track record in winning commissioned contracts, tendering and contract management.
• Skilled at building strategic partnerships and influencing at senior system level.
• Comfortable leading transformation and financial sustainability work, with demonstrable budgeting and forecasting skills.
• A values-led, collaborative leader with high emotional intelligence, resilience and a commitment to social justice and co-production.

Why Help & Care?

• Lead a highly respected regional provider with an outstanding track record of co-production and innovation.
• Shape an organisation poised for growth and greater regional influence.
• Hybrid, home-based working, regular travel across Dorset, and the chance to safeguard vital services for local communities.

If you would like to receive an Information Pack for this role with details on how to apply, please send an expression of interest and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile in confidence to our consultant, Jenny Hills via the apply button. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny at the above address with suitable times to speak. 

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 20th October 2025 

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

About the Role​

Social Development Direct is looking for a Finance Director to join our Senior Leadership Team and help shape the future of our global social impact consultancy. SDDirect is a values-driven, dynamic international development consultancy with a 25-year track record of delivering high-quality, innovative research and advisory services worldwide. As a social enterprise subsidiary of Plan International UK, we combine commercial agility with a deep commitment to social change.​

In this role, you’ll:​

•  Lead financial and commercial management, act as Company Secretary, and advise on project finance, pricing, and risk.
•  Collaborate across teams, using financial information and data to contribute to strategic growth, sustainability, and innovation.
•  Manage a small, dedicated finance team and work closely with our MD and Board.​​

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a medium-sized, fast-paced organisation, brings proven senior-level financial skills, and understands the dynamics of commercial consultancy. Flexible and part-time working arrangements are available (min. 80% FTE).​​

We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, and wish to particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates, who are underrepresented at this level.

Please click below for a full description of the role's responsibilities, duties, and person specification.​​

Chief Executive (CEO) Future Youth Zone, Barking & Dagenham
Hands on, youth first leader with sharp business acumen
Salary: £65,000 - £70,000 (depending on experience)
Benefits: 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays), free gym access, and access to OnSide's award winning L&D, with bespoke training and mentoring
Contract: Permanent, full time (37.5 hours, or those necessary to fulfil the role)
Location: Future Youth Zone, Barking & Dagenham
Application deadline: 5pm Monday 20th October 2025

Are you a bold, inclusive leader ready to shape the future for young people in one of London's most dynamic boroughs?

About Future Youth Zone:
Future Youth Zone is a high energy, state of the art youth centre in Barking & Dagenham, open seven days a week and part of the national OnSide Youth Zones network. Since opening in 2019, they have supported thousands of young people with 20+ activities every session and trusted, consistent relationships with skilled youth workers.

The opportunity:
As Chief Executive, you will lead a values driven organisation with a revenue budget of over £1.5m, champion youth voice, and deepen impact across the borough. You'll work shoulder to shoulder with young people, staff, volunteers, partners and the Board to deliver outstanding experiences and outcomes.

What you'll bring:
* Hands on youth expertise: Visible presence in the Youth Zone and across the borough; deep understanding of youth development and safeguarding; experience of frontline delivery or leading services for children and young people; commitment to inclusion, with flexibility to work some evenings and weekends.
* Business acumen: Proven financial leadership and operational grip, including oversight of £1.5m+ budgets; track record of diversifying income across corporate, philanthropic and statutory sources; data informed decision making and the confidence to set priorities as appropriate.
* Relationship building: An outstanding connector who builds trust with young people, colleagues, Trustees, funders, the Local Authority, schools, employers and community partners, while leveraging the OnSide network.
* Clear communication: A compelling communicator who can inspire in the Youth Zone, articulate a powerful case for support, and represent Future credibly with media and stakeholders.
* Proactive & decisive: A doer who spots issues early, acts at pace, makes tough calls when needed, and creates the conditions for a high performance, learning culture.

What you'll be leading:
* A passionate, skilled team delivering exceptional, inclusive services for young people
* A robust, diversified funding model and strong reputation among funders and the community
* Strategic partnerships across Barking & Dagenham and the wider OnSide network

How to Apply
Send your CV/profile to Senior Appointments at Charity People to request the full candidate information pack in the first instance. For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

About More Than A Roof:

More Than A Roof is a charity dedicated to empowering individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Our vision is a world where everyone has a secure home, and no one needs to stay in temporary accommodation to avoid homelessness. We work alongside vulnerable people in temporary accommodation to improve their lives and communities, unlock their potential, and open new possibilities. We provide practical and emotional support and stability, aiming to make any stay in temporary accommodation short, rare, and non-recurring. We work in close partnership with organisations like The Housing Network, Community Shop and a large number of Local Authorities.

The Role:

The CEO will be responsible for leading the strategic growth, fundraising, and external engagement of More Than a Roof. This role will focus on developing and communicating the charity’s mission, building strong partnerships, and securing funding to expand our impact across the UK.

The CEO will act as the external face of More Than a Roof, engaging supporters, funders, and strategic stakeholders to raise awareness and increase income. While the charity exists to support individuals & families experiencing homelessness, delivery of frontline services and direct engagement with residents is undertaken by our partner organisations, such as The Housing Network. The CEO will ensure that the voice and experience of those we support shapes our fundraising narrative, advocacy, and programme design, without duplicating the operational role of our delivery partners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work alongside colleagues at The Housing Network to support individuals and families (including individuals over 18’s, families, and prison leavers) as they move into temporary accommodation.
• Facilitate connections for beneficiaries within the local community in Leicester, helping them build support networks.
• Signpost beneficiaries to relevant external support agencies and services to address their diverse needs (e.g., health & wellbeing, training & life skills, employment, financial matters).
• Collaborate closely with on-the-ground partners, such as Community Shop in Leicester, to ensure integrated support.
• Collect and maintain accurate beneficiary data and records, ensuring compliance and contributing to outcome reporting.
• Actively support the charity's social media presence and engagement.
• Play a key role in fundraising activities, demonstrating a proactive approach and a proven track record of successful fundraising initiatives.
• Regularly report to and support the Board of Trustees, providing updates on beneficiary progress and charitable activities.

 About You:

We are looking for an exceptional individual who is passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of people experiencing homelessness. You will be a self-starter with a proactive approach, comfortable working independently as the charity's first paid employee.

 Essential Skills & Experience:

• A proven track record of working in a local charity, demonstrating an understanding of the charity sector, particularly in the field of homelessness.
• Confidence and a highly self-motivated approach, capable of managing your own workload effectively.
• Knowledge and understanding of the homelessness sector, its complexities, and challenges.
• Solid understanding and practical experience of safeguarding principles and procedures.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care principles and their application in support settings.
• Experience in crisis intervention and the ability to respond effectively in challenging situations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with diverse individuals and families, supporters of the charity and external stakeholders and funders.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail for accurate record-keeping and data collection.
• A proven track record in successful fundraising, with the ability to contribute to and lead fundraising initiatives.
• Proficiency in using IT for record-keeping, communication, and social media.

 Desirable Attributes:

• Experience working with diverse client groups including families, individuals over 18, and prison leavers.

Qualifications:

No specific formal qualifications are required for this role, however, this is not an entry-level position for someone stepping into their first charity job. Relevant experience and knowledge are paramount. A proven track record in fundraising activities, demonstrating a proactive approach and a proven track record of successful fundraising initiatives.

 Benefits:

• Competitive wage.
• Pro-rata paid annual leave.
• Pension scheme contribution.
• Travel expenses.
• Flexible working hours.

Job Description

SAVTE (the Sheffield Association for the Voluntary Teaching of English) supports people to develop English language skills to help them gain confidence and become independent, active citizens. Working in partnership with disadvantaged communities in Sheffield, we offer a person-centred approach to practical language learning and increased participation in society. 

MAIN PURPOSE OF THE ROLE 

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is a visionary leader for SAVTE. They guide and develop the organisation so it can continue to deliver successfully against its mission and values. At the heart of the role is the day-to-day management of the core functions of the organisation, and maintaining excellent governance practice. The CEO drives the financial development of the organisation by securing funding and exploring different opportunities for growing and strengthening SAVTE’s capacity to deliver. 

The CEO inspires SAVTE’s employees, volunteers and beneficiaries, and also builds and strengthens partnerships with local and national stakeholders to ensure the organisation’s reputation and position continue to grow. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO drives the strategic direction and success of SAVTE. 

Benefits:

• Hybrid working.
• Annual leave: 28 days including bank holidays (pro rata).
• Pension: SAVTE has a workplace pension scheme in place.

Four Greens Community Trust is all about helping people and changing lives in the North of Plymouth. We are looking for an innovative and inspirational CEO to lead the team into even more new and exciting chapters in the story of our growth. You will be part of a dedicated, versatile and hardworking group of staff and volunteers and part of a community which cares for each other.

We are looking for somebody who has exceptional community leadership and communication skills, who has confidence in leading capital projects and working in partnership with health and wellbeing organisations. You will have proven experience in strategic leadership, income generation and organisational development.

The Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer and we will seek to ensure equality of treatment for all, regardless of sex, race, age, marital or civil partnership status, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy or maternity status. 

For more information and an application form, please take a look at our recruitment pack.

We’re Hiring: Chief Executive Officer

Salary: £75,000 – £80,000 + pension
Location: Northamptonshire (flexible, with min. 3 days on-site)
Closing date: 5pm, Friday 3rd October 2025

Age UK Northamptonshire is looking for a dynamic Chief Executive Officer to lead us into our next chapter.

We are the leading local charity supporting older people across the county—providing advice, companionship, and essential services to 18,000+ people every year.

As our long-serving CEO retires, we need an inspiring, strategic leader who can:
✅ Champion older people as a trusted advocate and spokesperson
✅ Lead a dedicated team of 140+ staff and 260+ volunteers
✅ Strengthen partnerships and income streams to ensure sustainability
✅ Build on our proud history while driving innovation and growth

About You

You’ll bring:

• Proven senior leadership experience in a complex organisation
• Strong financial and strategic planning skills
• Excellent communication and influencing abilities
• Integrity, energy, and resilience to lead by example

Knowledge of the voluntary sector, health, social care, or issues affecting older people is highly desirable.

Interviews take place in October. If you have any questions then please use the above email. 

�� Be the voice for older people in Northamptonshire. Lead us into the future.

The role of CEO at Emerge is full of opportunity and potential. It is varied and at times complex, requiring a person of integrity, person centred leadership skills and responsibility.

As a Christian organisation (as stated in our registered charity objectives) we require our CEO to have a Christian faith whose theology is worked out in their day-to-day life – professionally and personally. They must be a leader of integrity and compassion for young people, team members and the communities we serve and be committed to learning and growing personally so they are well placed to enable the same for others.

The attached recruitment pack expands on this, but the below points are a summary of the most important elements of the role and the person we are looking for which the staff team and trustees have highlighted.

We are looking for someone who:

· Has significant experience of leading organisations, projects and people, and is therefore able to articulate vision, design and deliver a strategy and lead an experienced staff team.

· Has a big heart – full of compassion for young people and evidenced commitment to engage those who find themselves marginalised.

· Has an active Christian faith evidenced in clear theology, thinking and practice.

· Has established youth sector and voluntary sector experience and therefore understands deeply the challenges young people face in our communities and our city.

· Is a leader with experience of training staff and delegating effectively to enable others to grow their skills and abilities.

· Can clearly understand and work with finances – setting and controlling budgets and working diligently and creatively to ensure continued financial sustainability.

· Is confident in representing Emerge externally, networking across various sectors, maintaining and developing new partnerships, writing reports and public documents and being our champion in every context.

· Has experience of overseeing the legal requirements of running an organisation, employing staff and running an effective charity.

· Has robust knowledge of safeguarding issues as evidenced by current training and qualification (DBS etc.)

We recognise that not every candidate interested in this role will have the full breadth of experience, knowledge and skills we outline in the job description and person specification on the following pages. We are therefore interested in hearing from people who feel they meet most of the criteria and clearly share our faith, values and vision strongly enough to lead the organisation.

The majority of the role fits within a standard working day, but it will involve some evening working, and occasional weekend work recognised through an informal time in lieu process. There is some scope to work at home occasionally but youth work and leading a youth work charity mainly requires your regular presence in our offices and venues.

This is a critical and exciting leadership role for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust which will take the Trust forward to the next phase of organisational growth, building on the superb achievements to date of our retiring CEO. 

You’ll need passion and energy to work on some of the most profound challenges of our time. Nature needs its champions, and you’ll need to harness all of your skills, all of your personality, and your network to grow our influence, our impact, and our outcomes. You’ll excel at galvanising others to take action  enabling  us to achieve our aims and ensure bumblebees are thriving and valued by everyone.

This is an incredible opportunity to join a very special organisation with passionate and high-performing teams who are truly dedicated to our vital purpose. 

Please refer to the CEO pack for further information.

The Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer.  This means that whilst seeking employment or during such employment with the Trust, we will seek to ensure equality of treatment for all persons regardless of sex, race, age, marital or civil partnership status, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy or maternity status. 

At the Trust, we have a clear goal: to be the place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come, to stay and do their best work. We pride ourselves on reaching for our vision, through the hard work and dedication of our passionate and creative employees. 

This is a unique opportunity to become the first Chief Executive of a bold and ambitious charity with a global mission: that every baby should experience the best start in life. 

Founded in 2025 by The Rt Hon Dame Andrea Leadsom DBE, the 1001 Critical Days Foundation is built on three pillars: funding frontline charities, commissioning pioneering research, and championing the cause of babies globally. We’ve already secured significant philanthropic investment, launched groundbreaking projects and forged global partnerships. Now, we’re ready to go further and faster. 

1001 Critical Days Foundation 

Chief Executive Officer 

Location: Central London-based

Salary: £100,000 per annum 

This is a hugely exciting opportunity to lead an ambitious new organisation, looking to grow the scale, reach and impact of our work globally. As our inaugural CEO, you will lead the Foundation through its next phase of growth, working closely with our Executive Chair, Board of Trustees, committed team and expert advisory groups. You’ll shape our growth, inspire our team, and amplify our impact across the UK and internationally.

Our new CEO will: 

• Maximise our reach and influence to improve outcomes for babies worldwide by leading on our global engagement, advocacy and policy influencing work with partners and governments 

• Provide inspiring, values-driven leadership and foster a collaborative, high-performing culture 

• Oversee operations, advocacy and fundraising to ensure delivery and sustainability 

We are looking to appoint a passionate and ambitious leader who brings:  

• Senior leadership experience in advocacy, ideally at a global level 

• Demonstrable impact of effecting social change or influencing public policy, with a deep understanding of how to influence and drive policy change 

• A track record of increasing impact in the charity, public or private sector 

• Proven experience of building trusted relationships with high-level stakeholders 

• Financial and operational oversight experience, with a commitment to excellence and equity 

We welcome applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences. You don’t need to come from the early years sector; what matters most is your passion, ambition, and belief that every baby deserves the best start in life. 

For further information, to access the full appointment brief and to apply to this role, please visit the Prospectus website.

To arrange a confidential discussion about the opportunity, please contact our retained advisors Anna Gardet or Erica Ritchie with a copy of your CV. 

Recruitment Timetable  

Deadline for applications:  Wednesday 15th October 2025 

Interviews with Prospectus: 21st – 28th October 

Interviews with 1001 Critical Days Foundation:   w/c 3rd November 2025 

Lead change. Tackle poverty. Build community.

East Durham Trust is looking for a visionary and dynamic Chief Executive Officer to lead our organisation into the next chapter.

We are the flagship voluntary and community sector organisation for East Durham – one of the UK’s most disadvantaged communities – and we exist to fight poverty, support vulnerable people, and empower local residents to thrive.

In 2025, our work spans:

• Crisis Support Services – providing emergency food and energy support and tackling the root causes of poverty.
• Information, Advice, and Guidance Services – including community-based advice support and the East Durham Debt centre working in collaborative community and VCSE partnerships
• Community Energy Initiatives – including PowerED (Power East Durham), Horden Heat and Energising East Durham, a 5-year programme driving forward local renewable energy solutions and fuel poverty reduction.
• No More Nowt – an Arts Council England funded programme bringing cultural opportunities to local people.
• Volunteering and Social Action Programmes – engaging and supporting a network of volunteers to strengthen local communities. Including a range of community-based services and opportunities.
• Community House – providing managed workspace, community hub facilities, and hosting co-located partner organisations.
• Other targeted projects funded by national, regional, and local funders.

About the role

As CEO, you’ll provide strategic leadership and vision, ensuring the Trust remains financially sustainable, digitally equipped, and impactful in addressing the challenges our communities face.

You will:

• Inspire and lead our staff and volunteers.
• Drive forward income generation and financial stability (we use Xero).
• Oversee effective service delivery, using digital referral systems and our Charity Log CRM to measure and grow impact.
• Represent East Durham Trust with funders, policymakers, partners, and the media.
• Lead innovation and ensure our work remains rooted in the needs of local people.

About you

We’re looking for a leader who combines passion with professionalism. You’ll bring:

• Senior leadership experience in the voluntary, community or social sector.
• A track record in securing funding and leading organisational growth.
• Strong financial management skills, with experience of digital systems.
• Outstanding communication and partnership-building skills.
• A deep commitment to tackling poverty and inequality.

Why join us?

This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected community anchor organisation with a national profile and a local heart. You’ll be part of shaping solutions to the cost-of-living crisis, fuel poverty, and social disadvantage – while ensuring local people have a strong voice and real opportunities.

Apply now and help us power change in East Durham.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Chair of Trustees

Closing Date: 6th October 2025

Interviews Week Commencing: 13th October 2025

We are looking for someone who can see the ‘big picture’ and who can think strategically. But they must also have strong attention to detail and be able to grapple with day-to-day operational challenges. Above all, the CEO must be a passionate champion of British Exploring Society’s core intent – keeping everything it does anchored towards unlocking the self-belief of young people, even as it continually adapts and iterates to respond to the changing needs of its beneficiaries, and the evolving environment in which it delivers its programmes