International aid for the protection jobs

Job Title: Senior Programme Officer, Active Fellows

Line Manager: Team Leader, Active Fellows (Deputy Fellowship Programme Manager in Team Leader’s absence)

Salary: £36,062

Start date: 1 November 2025

Contract type: Permanent

Application deadline: 16 October 2025. Please note we will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis

Benefits:

• Challenging and rewarding work, always life-changing, sometimes lifesaving

• Competitive salary

• Team and individual training opportunities

• Commitment to performance and personal development

• Hybrid working, home and office (minimum 2 days each week in the office)

• Eight hours each day Monday – Friday, with flexible working by arrangement around core hours of 10am – 4pm

• 25 days plus Bank Holidays annual leave entitlement

• 8% employer pension contribution

• Convenient office location at Elephant and Castle, close to Tube (Bakerloo and Northern lines) and bus routes

Role Purpose Statement

The Senior Officer, Active Fellows plays a key role in delivering high-quality support to Cara Fellows. This includes leading casework, coordinating Cara’s mentoring scheme to support Fellows’ placements, and contributing to strategic improvements across the Fellowship Programme. The role combines direct support to Fellows, operational oversight and delivery of casework, and collaborative leadership to support Cara to uphold its mission.

Organisational Background

The Council for At-Risk Academics is a UK-registered charity founded in 1933 under the leadership of William Beveridge, to rescue academics suffering persecution under the rise of Nazism and facilitate their continued work in safety. Sixteen Cara Fellows from the 1930s and 1940s became Nobel Laureates, and many more innovators in their fields, including, Nikolaus Pevsner, Lise Meitner and Karl Popper. A number of Cara’s founders and Council members also personally provided places and/or funds to help individual academics; and Cara, known in the 1930s as the AAC, later the SPSL, was closely involved in the successful effort in 1933 to bring to London the Warburg Institute art library, which had been prohibited by the Nazis, and six of its staff. The Fellowship Programme is the continuation of the rescue mission operation started in 1933.

Cara has been a lifeline to academics at risk for over 90 years, as and when world events have placed them in the line of fire: Hungarian Uprising, Cold War, Apartheid South Africa, Iran, Latin American Juntas, Vietnam, Kosovo, DRC, Rwanda, Sudan, Zimbabwe etc. and, more recently Iraq, Turkey, Yemen, Palestine, Syria, Afghanistan and Ukraine. Cara support is typically framed as temporary sanctuary offered at times of heightened risk.

Cara Objectives ‘To assist academics who have been, or are, or are at risk of being, subject to discrimination, persecution, suffering or violence on account of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion, to relieve needs among them and their dependants and ensure that their specialist knowledge and abilities can continue to be used for the benefit of the public.’

‘To advance education by supporting academics and their educational institutions in countries where their continuing work is at risk or compromised, to ensure that such academics and institutions can continue to fulfil their critical role as educators for the public benefit.’

This is a critical time to join our dedicated and friendly Fellowship Programme team as we expand our capacity to support at-risk academics from the Middle East, Sudan, Myanmar, Afghanistan, Ukraine and Russia and many other countries.

Key Responsibilities

Fellowships

Casework

· Manage a caseload of up to 50 Cara Fellows, providing tailored support.

· Maintain accurate and GDPR-compliant records of casework activity.

· Liaise with Fellows to coordinate support and escalate complex cases to the Team Leader as required.

· Monitor, research and update visa guidance to reflect changes in complex immigration regulation.

· Keep up to date with relevant information regarding immigration laws, e.g. visas, legal procedures, etc.

· Liaise with independent legal advisors where necessary.

Finance

· Work with colleagues in finance to ensure accurate and timely payments to Cara Fellows and non-Fellowship related payments.

· Promptly issue relevant invoices.

· Understand financial processes – on Salesforce and Pleo – and update systems appropriately.

· Contribute to robust financial processes.

Support Mechanisms

Mentoring Scheme

· Project Lead for the Cara Mentoring Scheme.

· Coordinate rounds, delegate tasks to the team as required, and oversee delivery.

· Recruit mentors and mentees, and decide on a cap on number of participants if required.

· Lead on partnerships with organisations working in the mentoring world.

· Monitor the relevant budget and flag issues to the Team Leader.

· Lead on monitoring and evaluation (M&E) for the Scheme, suggesting improvements to this, and ensuring accurate data collection and reporting.

Webinars and Workshops

· Lead on developing ideas for webinar topics relevant to the needs of Cara Fellows.

· Organise these webinars, contacting speakers and attendees, all with the close support of the Programme Assistant.

· Monitor and evaluate the success of these events, through clear feedback mechanisms.

· Aim to deliver approximately three webinars per year, subject to team capacity.

· Lead on the delivery of workshops for Cara Fellows with external partners, managing Fellow participation.

· Contribute to the development of accessible resources to share openly within the Cara network.

Strategic Development

Alumni Engagement and Impact Reporting

· Play a key supporting role to the Team Leader in improving Cara’s alumni engagement.

· Contribute to developing Cara’s alumni network, with involvement in strategic discussions on interacting with alumni.

· Keep track of Cara Fellows’ media preferences and support the Team Leader in inviting relevant Fellows to participate in public events and media engagements.

Monitoring and Evaluation

· Support M&E activities across the Fellowship Programme, suggesting improvements to data quality and reporting.

· Ensure accurate data entry on Salesforce and flag inconsistencies to relevant team members.

· Assist with compilation of required information, statistics and reporting to Cara’s Council & F&GPC meetings.

Management Responsibilities

Deputise for Team Leader

· Cover for the Team Leader when required – lead team meetings, make decisions on cases for the team, provide general guidance and leadership.

· Assist the Team Leader with line management within the team, mentoring junior staff and contributing to continued team development.

· Approve the Active Fellows team’s working hours.

· Provide input on policy and process improvements.

· Show adaptability and willingness to take on additional work when needed.

Training/Inductions

· Play a leading role on inducting new staff to the Active Fellows and wider Cara team.

· Train new staff on key processes and offer continued guidance on difficult/complex cases and tasks.

Partnerships

· Support key strategic partnerships in Cara’s Universities and Research Network.

· Support the Team Leader in organising webinars and events for Cara’s network representatives at host institutions across the UK.

Ad Hoc Responsibilities

· Show adaptability and willingness to take on additional work when necessary.

· Support Fellowship Programme with ad hoc responsibilities.

Responsibilities also include related activities that might arise in relation to the Fellowship Programme as required by the Chief Executive and Deputy Chief Executive & Fellowship Programme Manager, Deputy Fellowship Programme Manager, or Team Leader, Active Fellows.

Person Specification – Senior Programme Officer, Active Fellows:

Qualifications

Essential:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Strong analytical and numeracy skills

Desirable:

• Master’s degree or equivalent

Knowledge & Experience

Essential:

• Understanding of UK immigration options for displaced academics
• Experience managing sensitive casework and maintaining accurate records
• Experience coordinating projects, events, or support schemes
• Familiarity with basic financial processes (e.g. payments, budget tracking)
• Confident use of Microsoft Office and Salesforce or other CRM systems

Desirable:

• Awareness of global issues affecting at-risk academics
• Experience coordinating mentoring programmes or similar initiatives

Skills & Attributes

Essential:

• Cultural sensitivity and commitment to Cara’s mission
• Ability to supervise and mentor junior staff
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong attention to detail and time management
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Adaptability, integrity, and problem-solving ability

Desirable:

• Foreign language skills (e.g. Arabic, Farsi/Dari, Pashto, Ukrainian, Russian)

Are you a digital innovator with a passion for creating meaningful change? Join us as Digital Products Owner and help shape the future for young people around the world.

In this exciting role, you’ll play a key part in delivering inclusive, engaging, and effective digital products that support young people to build confidence, develop skills, and access opportunities for self-employment or employment. Your work will directly contribute to positive outcomes for both young people and our global network of supporters.

A major focus of your role will be leading the redesign and development of our global business simulation game – a flagship digital product that underpins our wider strategic programmes. This next-generation learning tool will support young learners through engaging, practical, and interactive business challenges. You’ll lead the development roadmap, incorporating gamification, AI-driven enhancements, and innovative approaches to learning that work in both blended and fully digital environments.

Working closely with our digital and design team, regional colleagues, delivery partners, and other stakeholders, you’ll ensure all products align with our overarching proposition and global strategy. You’ll take a consultative, collaborative approach, using your digital expertise to shape decisions and maintain high standards of quality, accessibility, and impact.

You will bring strong product management skills, a user-centred mindset, and an understanding of emerging technologies such as generative AI and immersive learning design. Experience working in agile environments, managing complex stakeholder needs, and delivering scalable digital solutions is essential.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a high-impact product that will reach thousands of young people worldwide, helping them thrive in a changing world of work.

Ready to lead digital innovation with purpose?

Apply now and help us build the tools that unlock potential and transform futures.

About The Role 

We are seeking three Development Officers, two in London with their own strand of focus and one for the East region as a generalist. If you have a preference to which role you are applying for or if you would like to be considered for any of the three roles, please make this clear in your application.

• Development Officer London – Capability Building

• Development Officer London – Community and Network Development

• Development Officer East

The Development Officer is a key role in The Phoenix Way (TPW). It has a lead responsibility for strengthening organisational effectiveness and sustainability, enhancing the skills, knowledge, and resources of Black and racially minoritised voluntary and community-based organisations.

The Development Officers work will work closely with local community leaders and their staff, volunteers, and other stakeholders to assess needs, develop strategic plans, and implement capacity-building activities that promote growth, resilience, and optimal service delivery within the sector.

We are looking for exceptional candidates who can help developing staff capabilities, build strategic partnerships, and implement programmes that increase organisational capacity to achieve their outcomes. Strong communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills are essential for effectively facilitating change and empowering Black and racially minoritised community groups across TPW Greater London partnership.

Main duties and responsibilities 

• Design and deliver capacity building programmes for TPW (Greater London) supported community organisations and groups.

• Conduct organisational assessments to identify capability gaps, development needs and opportunities.

• Lead on the development of training workshops on governance, strategic planning, financial management, and programme evaluation.

• Deliver tailored programmes of support and training to TPW organisations across the Greater London region.

• Develop and maintain partnerships with funding bodies, local governments and other public sector organisations, and sector networks.

• Contribute to the development of TPW across the Greater London region.

• Support grant writing and funding applications for capacity building initiatives.

• Contribute to the creation of resources, toolkits, and best practice guides for organisational development.

• Monitor and evaluate capacity building programmes to demonstrate impact and inform improvements.

General 

• To attend and participate in internal and external meetings including London, South and East regions and Ubele meetings and meetings with key stakeholders.

• To attend relevant training to fulfil the requirements of the job. 

• To undertake other duties which may from time to time be required and which are appropriate to the responsibilities of the post. 

• Ensure that The Ubele initiative internal policies and procedures are followed through in all areas of work.

• Also treat with confidentiality any information that could be deemed as personal, private, or sensitive and comply with the organisations GDPR and Safeguarding requirements. 

Person Specification

Experience

• A significant level of not-for-profit sector experience in programme management, organisational development, or community development.

• Experience working with Black and racially minoritised communities and stakeholder groups.

• Track record in capacity building, training delivery, or consultancy work.

• Understanding of the national and local funding environment including grant writing and fundraising experience.

• Partnership development and network building experience.

Skills and Knowledge

Strategic and Analytical Skills

• Strategic thinking and planning capabilities.

• Programme design, implementation, and evaluation experience.

• Data analysis and reporting skills.

• Risk assessment and management.

• Systems thinking approach to organisational development.

Communication and Facilitation

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Group facilitation and workshop delivery experience.

• Public speaking and presentation abilities.

• Stakeholder engagement and relationship management.

• Ability to communicate with a diverse range of stakeholders.

• Conflict resolution and mediation skills.

Technical Expertise

• Grant writing and funding application experience.

• Financial management and budgeting knowledge.

• Understanding of governance structures and compliance requirements.

• Project management experience.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

• Knowledge of evaluation frameworks and impact measurement.

Attributes

• Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.

• Cultural sensitivity and awareness.

• Adaptability and resilience.

• Self-motivation and initiative.

• Commitment to social and racial justice.

• Ethical approach to professional practice.

We can offer:

The Ubele Initiative fosters a caring intergenerational creative and flexible work environment that promotes collaboration, team wellbeing, respect, and professional development.

Salary

£37,000-£40,000 full time, gross per annum

Weekly hours

37.5 hours per week.

Pension

After successful completion of probation, employees are auto enrolled on the Ubele workplace

pension scheme dependant on eligibility.

Holidays

20 days annual leave and 8 UK bank holidays for full time employees, pro-rated for part time.

Flexible Working Location

We are open to applications from candidates across the UK that are willing to travel regularly to our London office based in North London. We currently operate a 2 days per week office minimum for full time staff with Thursdays being the anchor day where all staff should attend the office.

Learning

Ubele encourages professional development as a part of our culture and values. Ubele provides,

opportunities for training in mental health and first aid, collaboration, and mentorship. Ubele hosts away days, annual retreat, local and international courses, learning sessions and social events.

Support

Access to Bright Wellbeing 24hr advice line and counselling service.

Access to Health Assured App

Access to Bright Safe Health & Safety management software and a variety of training courses.

Are you passionate about using digital innovation to create positive change?

Join us as Digital Product Owner and help transform the lives of young people worldwide.

In this key role, you’ll manage inclusive, engaging, and effective digital products that support young people to build confidence, develop skills, and access pathways to self-employment or work.

You’ll lead the development of product roadmaps, with a focus on integrating cutting-edge AI solutions to enhance our learning platforms. Working across regional teams and partners, you’ll align efforts into a unified roadmap to serve a global audience.

Proficiency in data management and insights is central to this role. You’ll advise and oversee the development of processes, strategies, and governance frameworks to ensure quality, consistency, and actionable insight across our digital products.

Your strong project management skills will help you guide cross-functional teams and stakeholders to deliver innovative, user-centred solutions on time and within scope. You'll take a consultative, collaborative approach to ensure products align with our strategic goals and broader digital proposition.

Working closely with the digital and design team, regional colleagues and stakeholders, you’ll use your expertise to influence decision-making and embed best practices within our governance framework.

Ready to make a difference?

Apply now and help us deliver impactful digital solutions that unlock potential and transform futures.

About The Role 

The Communications Officer will play a critical role in contributing to and delivering The Phoenix Way’s communications

objectives. They will increase public awareness of the challenges faced by Black and Global Majority communities,

highlight the work of our partners, and influence wider change in the funding sector.

This is a dynamic and varied role, requiring a strategic thinker with excellent storytelling, advocacy, and stakeholder

engagement skills.

Main duties and responsibilities 

Increase Public Awareness

• Develop and implement a communications strategy that frames the lived experiences of racial inequality through

compelling data, case studies, and human stories.

• Commission and manage research and data-gathering projects (e.g. £10k budget for Equity in Philanthropy report).

• Produce and disseminate research findings in accessible, engaging formats (reports, infographics, videos, blogs, press

releases).

• Deliver and oversee a coordinated social media plan across platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, X, WhatsApp).

• Lead the press and media strategy, building relationships with journalists, particularly in Black, Asian, third sector, and

mainstream outlets.

Foster Engagement

• Review, update, and embed TPW’s key messaging framework across all channels.

• Work collaboratively with regional teams, partners, and stakeholders to ensure consistent and inclusive messaging.

• Engage and mobilise stakeholders including community organisations, funders, policymakers, and the general public.

• Promote and amplify the work of TPW’s funded partners.

Influence Grant-Making Practices

• Develop and execute advocacy strategies targeting policymakers, government bodies, and philanthropic institutions.

• Create and distribute a Digital Advocacy Toolkit (social media templates, campaign messaging, email campaigns,

petitions).

• Publish and amplify policy briefs, research reports, and case studies to influence systemic change.

• Secure local, regional, and national media coverage to raise awareness of inequities in grant-making.

Empower Marginalised Communities

• Promote TPW’s capacity-building programmes (Community Connect, training, resources, and toolkits).

• Collaborate with partners to co-create resources that help community organisations strengthen governance, visibility,

and fundraising confidence.

• Signpost community groups to external funding opportunities and wider resources.

• Develop creative, inspiring content that educates, informs, and motivates action.

Amplify Impact

• Develop and deliver TPW’s Social Impact Reporting Framework.

• Collect, analyse, and share data on TPW’s impact and funders’ progress toward equitable grant-making.

• Create powerful storytelling content showcasing success stories, lessons learned, and examples of best practice.

• Inspire and engage stakeholders with the Phoenix Way model to foster innovation and collaboration.

General 

• To attend and participate in internal and external meetings including London, South and East regions and Ubele

meetings and meetings with key stakeholders.

• To attend relevant training to fulfil the requirements of the job. 

• To undertake other duties which may from time to time be required and which are appropriate to the responsibilities

of the post. 

• Ensure that The Ubele initiative internal policies and procedures are followed through in all areas of work.

• Also treat with confidentiality any information that could be deemed as personal, private, or sensitive and comply with

the organisations GDPR and Safeguarding requirements. 

Person Specification

Essential:

• Proven experience in communications, PR, or campaigns, ideally within the charity, community, or social justice

sectors.

• Strong understanding of issues affecting Black and Global Majority communities in the UK.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives across multiple

platforms.

• Experience managing social media, press engagement, and digital campaigns.

• Ability to translate complex data and research into accessible, impactful content.

• Track record of stakeholder engagement, partnership working, and coalition-building.

• Creative and strategic thinker with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Desirable:

• Experience in advocacy, influencing, or policy communications.

• Familiarity with the UK philanthropy and grant-making landscape.

• Skills in digital design, video, or multimedia content creation.

• Experience working with community-led organisations.

We can offer:

The Ubele Initiative fosters a caring intergenerational creative and flexible work environment that promotes

collaboration, team wellbeing, respect, and professional development.

Salary

£37,000-£40,000 full time, gross per annum

Weekly hours

37.5 hours per week.

Pension

After successful completion of probation, employees are auto enrolled on the Ubele workplace

pension scheme dependant on eligibility.

Holidays

20 days annual leave and 8 UK bank holidays for full time employees, pro-rated for part time.

Flexible Working Location

We are open to applications from candidates across the UK that are willing to travel regularly to our London office

based in North London. We currently operate a 2 days per week office minimum for full time staff with Thursdays

being the anchor day where all staff should attend the office.

Learning

Ubele encourages professional development as a part of our culture and values. Ubele provides,

opportunities for training in mental health and first aid, collaboration, and mentorship. Ubele hosts away days, annual

retreat, local and international courses, learning sessions and social events.

Support

Access to Bright Wellbeing 24hr advice line and counselling service.

Access to Health Assured App

Access to Bright Safe Health & Safety management software and a variety of training courses.