Chief governance administrative officer jobs

Personal/ Executive Assistant to the Master (Chairman) & the Clerk (CEO)

Location: Skinners' Hall, London EC4
Contract: Full-time, Permanent

Working pattern: This is a fully office-based role

About us

The Skinners' Company is one of the Great Twelve Livery Companies of the City of London, with a proud history dating back to 13th century even before its Royal Charter in 1327. Today, the Company is a thriving membership organisation with a significant charitable mission, supporting education, schools, almshouses and charitable initiatives across the UK.

We are seeking an exceptional Personal Assistant to support our Chairman (Master) and CEO (Clerk) from our historic headquarters at Skinners' Hall in the heart of the City of London.

About the role

This is a varied, fast-paced and rewarding role supporting two senior leaders at the centre of a historic organisation. You will be responsible for providing seamless executive support, ensuring the Chairman and CEO are fully prepared for meetings, events and engagements, while playing a key role in the Company's governance and administration.

Working closely with colleagues across the organisation and with senior external stakeholders, you will become a trusted member of a small, dedicated team.

Key responsibilities

• Manage complex diaries, meetings, travel and correspondence for the Chairman and CEO.
• Prepare agendas, papers and supporting documentation for Court, committee and governance meetings. 
• Prepare for, attend and produce accurate, high-quality minutes and action logs for Board, Court, Committee and other governance meetings, ensuring actions are tracked and followed through.
• Draft correspondence, reports, speeches and briefing notes.
• Act as the first point of contact for senior stakeholders, Court Members, committee chairs and external organisations.
• Coordinate annual governance processes, inductions and Company records.
• Support the planning and delivery of Company events, formal dinners, ceremonies and official engagements.
• Maintain accurate records using CRM systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Build strong working relationships with colleagues, schools, charities, other Livery Companies and a wide range of external partners.

About you

We're looking for an exceptional Personal Assistant who thrives in a dynamic and multifaceted role. You will be a master of organisation, planning and prioritisation, combining exceptional attention to detail with sound judgement, discretion and a proactive approach. Calm under pressure and confident managing competing priorities, you will take pride in delivering seamless executive support while building trusted relationships with colleagues and senior stakeholders.

You will have:

• Significant experience supporting senior executives and board members.
• Outstanding organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
• A calm, professional and discreet approach when handling confidential information especially when supporting the Clerk with personnel matters.
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
• Advanced Microsoft 365 skills, including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams and SharePoint, with the ability to produce high-quality documents, presentations and reports efficiently.
• Confident using AI-powered productivity tools (such as Calude and ChatGPT) to enhance drafting, research, meeting preparation, document production and administrative workflows while maintaining accuracy, confidentiality and professional judgement.
• Experience supporting governance or board meetings would be advantageous.
• This is primarily an office-based role to support effective collaboration with the Clerk, Master and wider team. Some flexibility for home working may be agreed by mutual arrangement but is not a contractual entitlement.

What we offer

• Competitive salary, based on experience
• Generous pension contribution
• 25 days' annual leave, plus bank holidays
• Discretionary Christmas closure in addition to annual leave
• The opportunity to work from the beautiful and historic Skinners' Hall in the heart of the City of London
• A welcoming, collaborative and supportive working environment in our beautiful open-plan office at the historic Skinners' Hall, where you'll work alongside friendly, knowledgeable and genuinely helpful colleagues who take pride in supporting one another.
• Opportunities to attend Company events and be part of a unique and historic organisation with nearly 700 years of heritage, supporting education, charitable giving and civic life

Recruitment timetable (Please read carefully)

• Closing date for applications: Mid-day Friday, 7 August 2026
• First-round interviews: Online during the week commencing 17 August 2026.
• Second-round interviews: In person at Skinners' Hall week Commencing 24 August 2026.
• Handover: The successful candidate should be available to attend a handover week which will be the week commencing 21 September 2026.
• Start date: Our preferred start date is 21 September 2026. However, we can offer flexibility for the right candidate, provided they are available to attend the handover during the week commencing 21 September 2026.

This is an exciting opportunity for a new Chief Executive Officer to lead our well-respected rare disease patient organisation through the next phase of growth and impact, in particular focussing on financial sustainability and influencing health policy for these rare diseases.These sit alongside the other grass-roots duties of a small charity CEO, including working with our Medical Advisory Team to develop new and maintain existing patient education resources, and overseeing our support services including volunteers and a professional psychological counselling service. Reporting to and working with the Board of Trustees, the CEO will be responsible for delivering our 2027-2030 Strategic Plan, ensuring robust governance, and driving forward our mission to improve the lives of people affected by rare diseases.The CEO manages the part-time Executive Administrator and works with up to 30 current volunteers (patients, carers, and health professionals) to deliver services with impact.This role includes occasional weekend work, as well as approximately 15 days travel (national and international) per year to represent and advocate for the charities’ beneficiaries. 

Plumstead Community Law Centre is a specialist legal advice charity providing free legal advice and representation in immigration, welfare benefits and employment law. Based in the heart of Woolwich, we support local people through our office and community outreach services.

We are seeking an Interim Chief Executive / Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day running of the Law Centre. Working closely with our Board of Trustees, you will manage staff, office operations, finance and administration, funded projects and organisational compliance, ensuring our services continue to deliver high-quality support to the community.

This flexible role could suit an experienced Chief Executive, Charity Manager, Operations Manager, Office Manager or Practice Manager. Experience of the legal advice or charity sector would be advantageous but is not essential.

To apply, please send your CV together with a supporting statement explaining how you meet the requirements of the Job Description and Person Specification..

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis and the vacancy will remain open until the post is filled.

Plumstead Community Law Centre is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

If you want to work with wonderful people and make a positive impact on our woodlands and wood culture, then being Woodland Heritage’s Chief Executive is the perfect opportunity for you!

Woodland Heritage’s Chief Executive is an inspirational leader, who leverages impact against the charity’s mission to derive strategy, underpin governance, deliver operations, generate income and make working at and supporting the charity a highly rewarding and motivating experience.

This role will be a core part of how Woodland Heritage achieves its mission and will be an incredibly rewarding and varied experience for someone with the right skills, experience and approach to their work.

About the role
● The role is 37.5 hours per week with occasional planned evening and weekend working as required.
● Options for flexible and hybrid working, with an average of 1 day per month at the Whitney Sawmills office
● 25 days plus Bank/Public holidays as paid leave (pro rata)
● £50 - 70k dependant on experience
● Permanent contract
● You will report to the Co Chairs and the Culture Action Group (Co Chairs, Past Chair, Treasurer)
● You will line manage the Engagement Manager, Project Manager, a seconded AOD administrator, work closely with a group of freelance fundraising, finance and operational support and lead a wider team of 3. In addition you will have key relationships with the sawmill manager, directors and team. An organisational chart will be provided to shortlisted candidates
● Lead on the charity’s relationship with Whitney Sawmills and their Directors, a business owned by Woodland Heritage
● Employer contribution to Nest Pensions.
All other terms and conditions will be as per your contract. More details are available via our staff handbook which can be provided to shortlisted candidates.

Person Specification
Qualification
● Degree level education or equivalent experience

Essential Experience and Knowledge
● Experience of leading excellent teams
● Proven experience of signifi cant income generation and leading on fundraising
● Experience infl uencing change with stakeholders
● A strong comprehension of charity governance and compliance
● Expert at managing shifting priorities
● A deep well of financial and commercial literacy
● Experience of delivering impact through hybrid working, including leading a diverse and dispersed team and stakeholders
● Demonstrable success in a senior management role
● Proven experience delivering strategy and leading impact against mission

A full job description is available on our website vacancies page.

How to apply

Please apply using the Application Form on our website. 
Your covering letter should be no more than two pages.
Through your CV and Covering letter please demonstrate how you meet sections 3 and 4 of the job description, in doing so communicate what makes you the best person for this role.

• Closing date for applications is 19th August 2026

• We will respond to candidates about a potential interview on 24th August 2026

• We may not be able to provide feedback to everyone that applies

• First round interviews will be held online at 28th August 2026

• Second round interviews will be held in person at Whitney Sawmills, Herefordshire on the 7th September 2026. There will be a task to prepare prior to this interview.

The interview will be conducted by a panel of charity staff and trustees.

We reserve the right to close the advertised positions early if we receive a high volume of high quality applications. We may also extend the deadline if necessary. We will provide feedback to candidates who are shortlisted for interview. 

Are you an exceptional governance professional who thrives working in a fast-paced environment?  

We are looking for a highly capable Governance and Executive Manager to play a pivotal role at the heart of our charity. Working closely with the CEO, Trustees and Executive, you will help ensure the organisation is governed to the highest standards while driving forward key strategic priorities including EDI and ESG.

This is a rare opportunity to combine your governance expertise with meaningful strategic impact in a dynamic and values-led organisation.

As our Governance and Executive Manager, you will be the trusted adviser and primary point of contact for our Board of Trustees, supporting effective decision-making and ensuring compliance with charity and company law.

You will lead the delivery of high-quality governance processes, oversee Board and Committee administration, support regulatory compliance and help develop policies and frameworks that strengthen our organisation.

Alongside this, you will provide executive-level support to the CEO, helping to coordinate priorities, prepare reports and contribute to organisational success.

· To work closely with the CEO and the rest of the GWT’s Senior Management Team in prioritising day-to-day activities. Whilst primarily focused on internal activities, the postholder will assist the CEO with external matters, deputising for the CEO as directed.

 

· To take a proactive role in supporting the CEO in strategy development, and to take the lead responsibility for the GWT’s Management Plan.

· To maintain oversight of, and to support, when necessary, the activities of the GWT’s operations in Nepal. To be the office primary link between the staff in GWT(N) and the UK Office, other than for fundraising specific activities, with a particular focus on the arrangement of visits (internal & external) between UK and Nepal and the deconfliction of activity.

· To manage regular meetings of the GWT Senior Management Team and produce a summary for circulation.

· To lead the development of the GWT’s policies and procedures with particular focus on Data Protection and Safeguarding. Develop/maintain/update an ESG policy for the GWT in line with SORP2026.  To act as the GWT’s Data Protection Officer.

· To be responsible for leading organisational development to ensure that the GWT has the structure and staff capacity to deliver against targets.

· To oversee the DCOS’s effective delivery of HR and CPD programmes including recruitment, induction, training, appraisals and disciplinary procedures.

· As Budget Holder for the UK Office, to ensure the efficient and effective running of the UK Office and its associated infrastructure, including the delivery of staff induction and continuation training.

· To prepare and manage the administrative elements of the UK Office budget.

· To oversee the GWT’s IT/Cyber strategy (UK and Nepal) with responsibility for all UK IT procurement and support policies (supported by the Office Manager), and to coordinate and manage all non-fundraising related office contracts.

· To monitor and support the activities of the GWAC in UK, liaising with Headquarters Brigade of Gurkhas as required.

· To liaise with the GWT’s Company Secretary from time to time to produce and distribute Committee/Board/General Meeting packs and take minutes and in the absence (for any reason) of a Company Secretary to carry out the administrative aspects of those functions. In the absence of a GWT Company Secretary, or as required by the relevant Committee Chair(s), act as Secretary to the various GWT Committees.

· To ensure, in close cooperation with the GWT’s Company Secretary from time to time, that the GWT’s governance arrangements are compliant, efficient and meet best practice.

 

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £65,000 per annum

Hours per week: 35 hours

Annual Leave: 25 days plus 8 bank holidays

Role Description

The COO is the Cathedral’s principal member of staff and has responsibility for the overall operational performance and administration of the organisation, its assets and its people. Appointed by the Chapter and accountable to them through the Dean, the COO works with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to develop and implement strategy and policy, ensure effective governance and compliance, manage the business functions of the Cathedral and monitor its overall progress and development.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the development of the Cathedral’s overall strategy to reflect the Cathedral’s Vision and Values.
• Ensure the effective implementation of the Cathedral’s masterplan and successfully deliver outcomes through the effective performance management of goals and objectives.
• Secure financial sustainability, achieve growth and optimise the efficient use of resources through effective short, medium and long term planning.

Safeguarding

• Work closely with the Dean, the Cathedral Safeguarding Committee, Chapter Safeguarding Lead and the Safeguarding Officer to develop and deliver the Cathedral’s safeguarding strategy.
• Act as a role model in upholding safeguarding policies and embedding a healthy safeguarding culture across Cathedral life.
• Negotiate, implement and continually review the Service Level Agreement with the Diocesan Board of Finance and the Diocesan Safeguarding Officer.
• Ensure compliance with current safeguarding legislation and national guidance, fostering an environment where safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

Staff and Volunteers

• Ensure recruitment, training and HR management of staff and volunteers adhere to the Safer Recruitment policies of the Church of England and meet the needs of the Cathedral.
• Develop a workplace culture and ethos that reflects the Cathedral’s values and enables and empowers staff and volunteers.
• Act as a role model for effective people management, supporting, developing, and constructively challenging others while encouraging continuous professional development.
• Foster a collegiate, open, and collaborative environment across the Cathedral.
• Champion diversity and inclusivity within the Cathedral community, providing opportunity and support for all.

Cathedral Compliance and Operational Management

• Ensure the effective running and forward planning of Chapter and other governance committees, including compliance with the Constitution and Statutes.
• Ensure trustees and others in governance positions are properly inducted and trained including in safeguarding.
• Ensure that the Cathedral meets all legislative regulations and complies with ecclesiastical and charity laws.
• Be accountable for reporting to the Charity Commission and Companies House.
• Work with the Chief Finance Officer to ensure that the strategic plan is supported by a robust, multi-year financial plan aligned with long-term objectives.
• Work with the Visitor Experience Manager to increase income generation, establishing a growth plan with the Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn Project.
• Work with the Architect and Facilities Manager to ensure the Cathedral meets its statutory and legal obligations relating to heritage, ecclesiastical and listed buildings in its care.
• Work with the Facilities Manager to ensure the Cathedral meets its statutory and legal requirements in relation to its properties and responsibilities as a landlord.
• Ensure effective management of Health and Safety across the Cathedral ensuring compliance with statutory legislation and best practice; ensure emergency procedures are up to date.
• Ensure all data is protected and processed in full compliance with GDPR legislation.
• Ensure that the Cathedral is complies with all legal requirements, interpreting and communicating changes in compliance to the Chapter and Cathedral staff.
• Support the Church of England’s Net Zero targets and ensure the Cathedral has a plan for reducing carbon emissions; adhering to statutory requirements relating to Net Zero.
• Ensure suitable IT provision is in place, to support Cathedral operations, is secure and regularly review software and hardware requirements.
• Work with the Marketing & Communications Manager to oversee public relations, ensuring appropriate management of reputation, branding, and media activities; act as Cathedral spokesperson as appropriate.
• Review working methods, office accommodation and administration support to ensure arrangements are fit for purpose.
• Promote open and transparent ways of working throughout the administration, with effective communication and engagement at all levels.
• Oversee the effective planning and management of key projects and the implementation of delivery programmes to achieve operational and strategic objectives.
• Support the Dean in managing relationships with the 1327 Club.
• Ensure the effective management, use and future development of all the Cathedral’s assets.
• Be responsible for contingency planning, including the management of insurance, disaster recovery and salvage planning and oversee the Cathedral’s risk register.
• Develop for approval, maintain and regularly review policy and procedure documents of Chapter and ensuring they are embedded across the organisation.
• Chair staff and management meetings.
• Manage the business operations of the Cathedral in accordance with the values, standards and budgets agreed by Chapter.
• Lead, manage, motivate and empower staff and volunteer teams through effective structures, training and professional relationships.

Direct Reports

• Chief Finance Officer
• Cathedral Safeguarding Officer
• Human Resources Officer
• Visitor Experience Manager
• Volunteer Manager
• Marketing and Communications Manager
• Facilities Manager
• Shop Manager
• Pilgrims’ Kitchen Manager

Attendance Required at:

• Chapter Meetings
• Finance Committee
• Nominations Committee
• Risk, Audit and Review Committee
• Safeguarding Committee
• Health and Safety Committee
• Information Protection Group
• The Guild of St Edmund Committee
• Forum
• Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM)
• Enterprises Ltd Meetings
• Eco St Eds Committee
• Abbey of St Edmund, Reborn CIO
• Cathedral Administration and Finance
• Association (CAFA)conferences

Person Specification

Essential Qualities

• A proven track record of strategic leadership with successful
• delivery of projects and outcomes within an organisation of a similar size and complexity.
• Experience of working at board level or closely with boards.
• Significant leadership capability, with the ability to influence, inspire, and engage the Cathedral Community and external stakeholders.
• An empowering management style that fosters teamwork, trust and collaboration, with a strong understanding of HR best practice.
• Successful experience of leading significant change and of fostering a culture of continuous improvement and development within a complex organisational environment.
• Proven experience in managing operational performance within tight financial constraints in a complex, multi-faceted environment.
• Effective delivery of financial strategy and budget management, demonstrating strong commercial acumen.
• An understanding of safeguarding and the critical role it plays in protecting all people.

Desirable Qualities

• Previous experience as a COO or at a similar senior leadership level.
• An understanding of the complexities in managing wide-ranging cathedral operations or previous experience within a Church of England setting.
• A good understanding of best practice in charity governance.
• Experience of managing a heritage site.
• Experience working with volunteers.
• Experience in safeguarding best practice.

Knowledge and skills

• Ability to understand complex operational issues and develop creative and innovative solutions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to share information effectively at all levels internally and externally.
• Commitment to working efficiently and effectively, utilising technology and software as appropriate.
• Ability to develop and encourage a strong team ethos among staff and volunteers.
• Strong analytical skills and sound judgment.
• Experience of managing budgets.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage comfortably with all users of the Cathedral.

Other criteria

• Empathy with the beliefs and ethos of the Christian faith.
• Comfortable working within a team of staff and clergy with a range of different skills and gifts, understanding their different roles and working patterns.
• Commitment to the Cathedral’s purpose and vision, and to taking an active role in the Cathedral’s community, mission and outreach.
• A satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this post. The appointment is subject to a six-month probation period.

Additional Information

The role requires the post-holder to work occasional weekends, evenings and non-working days, as required for which time off in lieu will be given. The post-holder will undertake such other duties as may reasonably be expected. This document is accurate at time of publication but is subject to regular review and may change in line with the Cathedral’s requirements.

Closing Date: 9.00 am Monday 3 July 2026

Interviews: Wednesday 12 August 2026

                                 

                                                               Marshall’s Charity

Chief Executive and Clerk to the Trustees

£90,000 per annum + benefits Marshall’s Charity, 66 Newcomen  Street, London SE1 1YT

The Charity was formed in 1631 on the death of John Marshall, a baker in Southwark. In his Will, after making provision for his family and friends, he left the balance of his modest estate to trustees to be used for various charitable purposes. The Charity is funded solely from this endowment and carries out its charitable purposes principally by awarding grants for the Marshall's Educational Foundation, the restoration and repair of parsonages and Anglican churches and as Patrons to  Christchurch, Southwark.

The post holder will be a key part of a small, dedicated and friendly team and play a pivotal role in the organisation by leading on all matters of finance, compliance, regulatory and risk management and office administration systems. In doing so you will be making a tangible and long-lasting contribution to the Charity 

The ideal candidate will:

• demonstrate senior financial experience including accounting, cash management, liaison with contractors, relevant law
• hold a professional accountancy qualification 
• possess excellent oral and written communication skills
• demonstrate proven administrative, IT and organisational skills
• have experience of corporate and fiscal governance gained within the professional, charitable or wider not-for-profit sectors
• be supportive of the Charity’s aims and sympathetic to the cause of the Church of England
• have a positive “can do” attitude

Whatever your professional background, unquestionable commitment, honesty, integrity and energy, along with an eye for detail, are essential. Candidates should be within easy reach to the offices near London Bridge. If you share our commitment and interest and have the skills, motivation and experience to join us we would be keen to hear from you. 

How to Apply

Download further details of the position from our website:

Marylebone Executive Search

For an informal confidential discussion call Richard Evans or Kevin Everett number found on website.

Apply online with a full Curriculum Vitae detailing your skills, qualifications and experience together with a two-page covering letter outlining your motivation to undertake the role and how you meet the competencies required for the position as stated in the Person Specification.

Closing date for applications:                                                       9 August 2026

Long List interviews:                                                                           14 August – 10 September 2026

Short List interviews:                                                                           w/c 21 September 2026

Candidate Visits and Final Panel Interviews:                                    w/c 28 September 2026

Start Date:                                                                                             mid-January 2027

We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and highly motivated Chief of Staff (COS) to deputise for the CEO in maintaining oversight of global operations of this incredible charity.

You will report directly to the CEO, working closely with the senior management team (SMT) both in UK and internationally. If you are an experienced and effective senior manager, a strategic thinker and excellent communicator with good interpersonal skills then we would very much like to hear from you.

This role's primary responsibilities will be as follows:
To work closely with the CEO and the rest of the SMT in prioritising day-to-day activities. Whilst primarily focused on internal activities, the postholder will assist the CEO with external matters, deputising for the CEO as directed.
To take a proactive role in supporting the CEO in strategy development.
To support international operations, be the office primary link between global staff and support arrangements of visits.
To lead the development of the policies and procedures with particular focus on Data Protection and Safeguarding.
To be responsible for leading organisational development to ensure the charity has the structure and staff capacity to deliver against targets.
To act as budget holder for the UK Office, to ensure the effective running of the UK Office (supported by the Office Manager) and its associated infrastructure, including delivery of staff inductions and training.
Take responsibility for IT procurement and manage all non-fundraising related office contracts.

Experience required:
-Must be a confident, dynamic and decisive senior manager, with proven leadership, administrative and (written and oral) communication skills.
- Must demonstrate the ability to work both as a member of a senior management team and across the broad diversity of employees, directors, other stakeholders and contractors at all levels.
- Must have a proven record of delivering against competing priorities and deadlines and the ability to think strategically across a range of business areas.
- Candidates with a military, MOD, civil service or relevant charity background are encouraged to apply.

Desirable experience:
- Understanding of Charity Commission and Companies House regulations
- Experience of working in fundraising/charity environment
- Understanding of Data Protection, Safeguarding and Health & Safety at Work
regulations

PLEASE NOTE
Our aim is to respond to all successful applications within 5 days. If you haven't been contacted within 5 days your application has been unsuccessful and your details will not be held further but we positively encourage you to apply for any other positions that you may see in the future.
We apologise that we cannot contact everybody in person but thank you in advance for your interest. Third Solutions encourages applications from individuals of all ages & backgrounds.
Appointment will be made on merit alone but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Third Solutions acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment & an employment business for temporary recruitment as defined by the Conduct of Employment Agencies & Employment Business Regulations 2003.

Are you an experienced Executive Assistant who thrives in a fast-paced environment? Do you enjoy supporting senior leaders, managing competing priorities and keeping everything running smoothly?

An inspiring national charity is looking for a skilled Executive Assistant to provide high-level support to its CEO while also playing a key role in governance, Board support and senior leadership operations.

Permanent | 28 hours per week / Hybrid working (3 days office, 1 day home) / North London / Salary: £31,215 (£39,019 FTE) [
 
Benefits

• Hybrid working with 1 day working from home
• London office with excellent transport links
• Part-time role (28 hours per week)
• Work closely with senior leaders and Board members
• Meaningful role within a values-led organisation
• Supportive and collaborative culture

 
The Role
Working closely with the CEO and Head of CEO Office, you'll manage a complex diary and inbox, coordinate meetings and events, prepare briefings and reports, and act as a key point of contact for senior stakeholders. You'll also support Board and Committee meetings, maintain governance records, and assist with organisational compliance and risk management processes.
 
About You
You'll bring:

• Experience supporting a CEO, Director or senior leader in a busy environment
• Exceptional diary and inbox management skills
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent communication and minute-taking experience
• Sound judgement, discretion and the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Confidence building relationships with stakeholders at all levels
• Strong Microsoft 365 skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving

Knowledge of charity governance or Board support would be an advantage.

Apply Today

Interviews are scheduled for 6th and 7th August, so early applications are encouraged.

If you're looking for a varied and rewarding Executive Assistant role where you can make a real impact while working at the heart of a purpose-driven organisation, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today or get in touch for a confidential chat.

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 that we can help with making the application process work for you.

Join Mersey Rivers Trust and Help Make a Real Impact for Rivers, Wildlife and Communities! 

Are you a skilled finance and governance professional looking to use your expertise for good? Mersey Rivers Trust is seeking a Finance and Governance Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team and help shape the future of our environmental charity. 

We’re a passionate team working to protect and restore rivers across Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire — and we need someone like you to ensure our finances and governance are as strong as our mission. 

APPLICANTS MUST LIVE WITHIN OR CLOSE TO THE MERSEY CATCHMENT – APPLICATIONS FROM OUTSIDE THIS AREA CANNOT BE CONSIDERED.

The Mersey Rivers Trust (MRT) is an environmental charity focussing on the protection and enhancement of rivers and waterbodies in the Mersey Catchment. It operates in an area covering Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire. We have an annual turnover of c£1m and employ 19 staff delivering up to 30 projects per year. The Trust works with partners, local communities, and volunteers to deliver a wide range of projects including river restoration, reduction of flood risk by Natural Flood Management techniques, river monitoring, volunteer events (eg river clean-ups/invasive species control and citizen science), community engagement and education events, farm advice/plans and biodiversity net gain. The Trust continues to evolve to meet the increasing challenges of protecting and enhancing rivers and waterbodies in the catchment.

We are seeking a Finance and Governance Manager to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the Trust’s finance, governance, and back-office functions. This is a pivotal role focused on ensuring financial integrity, regulatory compliance, and effective charity governance. While not involved in field-based project delivery, the Finance Manager plays a strategic role in supporting the organisation’s mission by enabling robust financial planning, reporting, and operational support. You will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Board of Trustees, and project teams to ensure the Trust remains financially resilient and well-governed.

As the Finance and Governance Manager, you should possess expertise in financial control and reporting, allowing you to effectively handle delegated responsibilities. Your numerical skills and critical thinking abilities will enable you to proactively address challenges and streamline processes. 

The role holder will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and will be a member of the Senior Leadership Team. The role will also include direct line management responsibilities of the Administration Officer. 

If you are a motivated financial professional with a passion for driving organisational success, we invite you to apply and contribute to our team’s growth. 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the management of the back-office function and Charity governance of MRT. 

• Act as the Company Secretary to ensure compliance with financial and legal requirements, as well as maintaining high standards of Charity governance. 

• Work with the Chief Executive Officer to prepare and manage budgets, provide input to the Trust’s business plan and strategic initiatives. 

• Contribute to the strategic direction of the Trust as a member of the Senior Leadership Team. 

• Provide financial insight and analysis to support strategic decision-making and long-term planning. 

• Support the development and implementation of organisational policies and procedures to ensure good governance. 

• Act as a key liaison with the Board of Trustees, preparing and presenting financial and governance reports to inform oversight and decision-making. 

• Lead on the development of internal controls and risk management strategies to safeguard the Trust’s assets and reputation. 

• Oversee all payments, manage cash flow, income and claims. 

• Support financial planning for grant funding applications to support delivery of our objectives. 

• Line management of the Administration Officer. 

• Renew the annual insurance policy ensuring adequate cover and value for money. 

• Maintain, oversee, and update all project management reporting systems on time and to budget (including timesheets, expenses and monthly reports). 

• Complete all necessary reports and keep suitable records in line with the funding requirements and document retention policy. 

• Highlight any new risks and issues identified whilst carrying out duties, and work with the team to manage and resolve them. 

• Fulfil duties as assigned by the Chief Executive Officer. 

• Any other reasonable duties as required by MRT. 

The post holder will be home based with travel throughout the Mersey catchment. The applicant will need to live within or close to the Mersey catchment to facilitate regular travel to meetings. Remote working from other parts of the country cannot be considered for this role due to the need for regular face-to-face interactions.

Candidate Profile

Essential 

• A financial control and reporting background with an accounting qualification (e.g. AAT, CIMA) or qualified by experience. 

• Experience of organisational governance, ideally with knowledge of UK General Accounting Practice and Charities regulations. 

• Experience of financial and management reporting within a small to medium-sized charitable or not for profit organisation. 

• Experience of liaising with accountants to prepare annual accounts and reports required by the Charity Commission. 

• Experience of cash flow forecasting. 

• Familiarity with Xero financial and project management software (or similar). 

• A confident and clear communicator with the ability to communicate financial information in an appropriate manner for non-financial trustees and staff. 

• Aptitude in problem-solving. 

• Self-motivated and able to work effectively from home with strong communication skills and with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. 

• Ability to work flexibly across the working week when necessary. 

• Ability to prioritise and plan activities to meet strict deadlines. 

• Excellent literacy, numeracy and report-writing skills. 

• Excellent presentation and communication skills. 

• Strong negotiation and influencing skills. 

• Good computer literacy skills (e.g. with Excel, Word, PowerPoint and project reporting systems). 

• A reliable team player with good attendance and work performance. 

• Ability to set performance objectives and ensure these are achieved. 

Desirable 

• Experience in financial planning for funding applications. 

• Understanding of small-scale charitable trading. 

• Experience of commercial contract management. 

• Experience of managing an IT service provider.

• Knowledge of the Mersey Catchment.

• Experience in Human Resources

General Notes

• Some travel around the Mersey Catchment will be necessary therefore a current driving licence and access to a vehicle (insured for business use) is desirable or otherwise access to public transport networks. 
• This positive will from time to time requires work during some evenings, weekends and public holidays to meet the needs of the post. A time off in lieu system is operated by the Trust.

• We will also require the successful applicant to undergo a basic DBS check and provide satisfactory references from previous employers. 

Term and Conditions

The following terms and conditions are typically offered to Mersey Rivers Trust staff and are set out as a guide only. Terms and conditions may vary according to circumstances, and this summary does not form part of any subsequent employment

Annual leave: 25 days annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays that fall on working days and a 3 day shutdown between Christmas and New Year.

Location: Home Based

Job Title: Administrator & Bookkeeper

Location: Home-based with travel and occasional overnight stays

Hours: 35 Hours per week (Typically Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)

About Us:
Established in 1985, the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) is the leading representative charity for dog and cat rescue and rehoming organisations across the UK, Ireland, Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands. ADCH promotes the safeguarding of welfare standards for dogs and cats needing new homes and supports those working and volunteering in the sector

At the heart of ADCH is a strong collaborative ethos. With over 160 member organisations, all of which are registered charities, we unite organisations of all sizes – large and small; embracing over 50,000 staff and volunteers, all dedicated to working together for Dogs and Cats. A key part of this ethos is the peer network ADCH nurtures, where members connect, exchange ideas, share knowledge and resources, and offer mutual support. Through this network, organisations are able to address common challenges, collaborate on solutions, and strengthen their collective impact on animal welfare.

Who We Are Looking For:

We are looking for an organised and proactive Administrator & Bookkeeper to join our small, collaborative team. This is a varied role at the heart of the organisation, providing pragmatic administrative support across membership services, communications, finance, governance and events.

You'll be confident managing multiple priorities, maintaining accurate records and using a range of digital systems. From supporting our members and maintaining our CRM to producing communications, updating website content and assisting with day-to-day bookkeeping, you'll play an important role in helping ADCH deliver an efficient and professional service.

As part of a small team, you'll need to be adaptable, self-motivated and happy to take ownership of your work while supporting colleagues across a wide range of activities. You'll be equally comfortable working independently from home and collaborating with the team, with travel across the UK and occasional overnight stays required.

Person Specification

• Essential
• Experience providing administrative support within a busy team.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, Canva and database systems.
• Experience of bookkeeping and using accounting software (e.g. QuickBooks, Xero, Sage or similar).
•  Experience of creating social media content for an organisation.
• Experience of updating website content using systems such as WordPress or Similar.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to prioritise workload, work independently and use initiative.
• Excellent communication, customer service and interpersonal skills.

Desirable

It would also be great (but not essential) if you had:

• Experience of working in the charity sector and/or a membership organisation.
• Experience supporting or coordinating events
• Experience of supporting committees or governance meetings.
• Experience of working remotely.

How to apply

If you're an organised administrator with excellent attention to detail, strong IT skills and a positive, flexible approach, we'd love to hear from you.  This is a 12-month fixed-term position, with the potential for extension subject to funding.

Closing Date: Sunday, 16th August 2026

Interviews: Monday,  24th August 2026 Online

As a small charity with limited resources, we regret that we are unable to respond to every application or provide individual feedback to unsuccessful candidates. If you do not hear from us within five working days of the closing date, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion.

Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications.

Further details about the role, including key responsibilities and criteria, can be found in the job description. Please ensure you review this carefully before beginning your application.

Office & Administration Assistant – Key Responsibilities 

Office management and administration 

• Maintain a welcoming, safe and efficient office environment that enables staff, volunteers and visitors to work effectively, in line with the ‘Groundswellian Way’, our coproduced principles for a safe, positive work culture.

• Manage the day-to-day running of the office, including , refreshments, office supplies, IT equipment, room bookings and reception duties.

• Coordinate incoming and outgoing post, telephone calls and enquiries through the central inbox, ensuring messages and requests are directed promptly to the appropriate member of staff. 

• Build positive working relationships with Workspace, office contractors and suppliers, including cleaners, maintenance providers and other building services. 

• Support Groundswell's commitment to environmental sustainability by promoting recycling, reducing waste and encouraging environmentally responsible office practices. 

• Ensure office administration is appropriately covered during periods of annual leave and support the wider administration team to provide consistent organisational support. 

• Recruit, support, supervise and train office volunteers where appropriate. 

Facilities, health and safety 

• Act as the day-to-day office lead for health and safety administration, supporting compliance with Groundswell's Health & Safety Policy. 

• Ensure all staff and volunteers receive relevant health and safety information during induction, including access to the health & Safety training video, awareness of fire procedures, emergency evacuation routes and workplace safety responsibilities. 

• Coordinate annual fire risk assessments, workplace risk assessments and PAT testing, ensuring appropriate records are maintained and actions completed. 

• Support the development and maintenance of Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) where required. 

• Liaise with Workspace to ensure landlord responsibilities relating to health and safety are fulfilled, including fire safety systems, signage and equipment maintenance. 

• Maintain records of accidents, incidents and near misses, ensuring statutory reporting requirements are met where appropriate. 

• Coordinate the maintenance and servicing of Groundswell's office equipment, facilities and assets, ensuring they remain safe, functional and fit for purpose. 

• Work closely with the Director of Finance & Fundraising and our external systems and finance support on matters around onsite assets and finances.

IT and Systems

• Oversee the day-to-day management of organisational assets, ensuring equipment is maintained, used appropriately and complies with organisational policies and cyber security requirements. 

• Complete IT trouble shooting on behalf of staff and volunteers, with external support. 

• Order IT equipment as needed with external support. 

• Complete basic set – up tasks on staff and volunteer devices with external support.

• Support staff and volunteers to upskill and improve their technological skills through the digital inclusion group. 

Organisational administration 

• Provide administrative support for organisational meetings, events and activities, including venue bookings, catering, logistics and preparation of materials. 

• Support the Chief Executive in implementing GDPR and data management processes, ensuring good administrative practice and compliance across the organisation. 

• Provide governance administration, including scheduling Board and Committee meetings, preparing meeting logistics, taking accurate minutes and maintaining action logs. 

• Provide administrative support to the Chief Executive, Trustees and Senior Leadership Team, including diary coordination, meeting arrangements and room bookings. 

• Support the recruitment and induction of Trustees as required by the Nominations Working Group.

• Support the People Manager with the onboarding and off-boarding of staff. 

General 

• Maintain accurate administrative systems, records and filing, ensuring information is organised, confidential and GDPR compliant. 

• Identify opportunities to improve office systems, administrative processes and ways of working to increase efficiency and effectiveness. 

• Work with the People Manager and Director of Fundraising & Finance to ensure policies and processes are accessible, in plain English and simple to follow; using step by step guides and images where appropriate.

• Build positive relationships across the organisation, providing responsive, friendly and professional support to colleagues, volunteers and external stakeholders. 

• Undertake any other reasonable duties consistent with the nature and level of the role. 

Groundswell responsibilities and the Groundswellian Way 

Act in line with our Code of Conduct and the Groundswellian Way in all interactions with colleagues, volunteers, partners and visitors. 

We want to: 

• create a safe, friendly and respectful working environment 

• encourage transparent communication so everyone knows what is expected of themselves and the organisation 

• ensure everyone feels valued and celebrates individual strengths 

• promote diversity, equity and fairness in everything we do 

• encourage collaboration and working together. 

Person Specification

Essential 

• Experience working in a busy office or administrative role. 

• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail. 

• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft 365.

• Ability to follow instructions and coordinate with consultants to complete IT set up and troubleshooting.

• Experience coordinating meetings and maintaining administrative systems. 

• Excellent communication and customer service skills. 

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently. 

• Understanding of confidentiality and GDPR. 

• Commitment to Groundswell's values and trauma-informed ways of working. 

Desirable 

• Experience supporting charity governance or trustee meetings. 

• Experience coordinating health and safety administration. 

• Experience supervising volunteers. 

• Knowledge of facilities management. 

• Lived experience of homelessness or social exclusion. 

Why join Groundswell? 

Key Benefits 

• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time roles) 

• 5% employer pension 

• Flexible working options, including hybrid and part-time arrangements 

• Reflective practice or Clinical Supervision with a trained therapist for all team members 

Culture 

• Support - Regular guidance, support and the opportunity to reflect on your work through regular one to ones with your Line Manager 

• Teamwork - Regular opportunities to contribute to and learn from the wider Groundswell team 

• Strategic input - Opportunities to input into Groundswell’s strategic direction 

• Voice – The ability to input into working practices that impact you, and to know where to turn if any problems arise.

Application and Interview Process

Please let us know if you would like to request any accommodations or adjustments throughout the application and interview process. We will be very happy to support these wherever possible to give all applicants the best opportunity to showcase their skills and experience.

We encourage our candidates to draw from their personal and professional experiences, skills, knowledge and passion for our work in their applications, as we believe this will be the best representation of why you are the right fit for the role. While we acknowledge that Generative AI can be a useful tool when used selectively, we do not believe it can replace the authenticity that each individual can bring to their application. Therefore, we ask you to consider carefully any use of Generative AI throughout the application process.  

Application 

To apply please follow this link: 

Please submit your CV along with a cover letter stating: 

• How you meet each of the areas outlined in the person specification above  

• Why you are interested in doing this job at Groundswell.

You can find a guide to writing your cover letter here, which includes some tips and general guidance. 

The deadline for applications is 10am on Monday 17th August.

Interviews 

Interviews will be held in person on either Wednesday 2nd or Thursday 3rd September. 

We are a small charity with limited resources and are unable to give individualised feedback on unsuccessful applications before the interview stage.

Pre-employment checks 

The job offer for the successful candidate will be subject to a reference check.

Many thanks for taking the time to look into this role – it is an exciting opportunity, and we hope you will consider applying. 

About Pathway Fund

We are the UK's first Black and Ethnic Minoritised (BEM)-led impact investment wholesaler, dedicated to catalysing opportunities for Black and Ethnically Minoritised communities across the UK. Our mission is to address structural inequalities within the UK’s investment ecosystem by providing bespoke and subsidised capital to BEM-led organisations, making it more affordable and accessible to those underserved by existing infrastructure. We act as a funder, convenor, and knowledge builder, bridging gaps between communities, finance, and policymakers to drive systemic change and foster inclusive growth and community wealth building.

Following the receipt of our Dormant Assets funding, we have moved into full delivery mode, with the first wave of Investment Management Organisations (IMOs) already applying. We are a small, collaborative team with an ambitious remit and a strong commitment to public value, working closely with partners to ensure we achieve our mission.

Reports to: CEO

Location: Kennington, London (hybrid or remote working)

Contract: Permanent, Full-time (1.0 FTE)

Salary: £34,000 – £38,000 per annum

Purpose of the Role

The Executive Assistant & Governance Officer is a critical role ensuring the seamless operation of the Pathway Fund's leadership and governance structures. This role provides dedicated, high-level support directly to the CEO, the Board of Directors, and logistical support for the Social Investment Committee (SIC). Crucially, this position acts as the CEO's operational anchor, tracking team deliverables and managing external-facing events and communications assets to ensure the organisation operates efficiently, professionally, and at pace.

This is a highly focused role that requires judgment, discretion, and the confidence to manage senior stakeholders, prioritise competing demands, and keep the organisation's leadership moving forward.

Key Responsibilities

1. Executive Support to the CEO

• Provide proactive, high-quality EA support to the CEO, including complex diary management, meeting coordination, and travel planning.
• Manage the CEO’s inbox, triaging communications, acting as the first point of contact, and handling correspondence with professionalism and discretion.
• Prepare comprehensive briefings, presentations, daily itineraries, and follow-up actions for the CEO ahead of senior meetings.
• Act as a gatekeeper, anticipating the CEO's needs and protecting their time to focus on strategy and partnerships.

2. CEO's Team Delivery & Tracking

• Manage the weekly team meeting cycle and associated papers on behalf of the CEO.
• Monitor team delivery by actively chasing team members on key deliverables, ensuring deadlines are met.
• Track actions and decisions generated by the CEO to ensure organisational follow-through and accountability.

3. Governance Support: Board & SIC

• Provide full administrative and governance support to the Board of Directors.
• Collaborate with the Programme Manager (who acts as the formal secretariat for the SIC) to ensure all Social Investment Committee coordination, paper distribution, and logistical support is effectively managed.
• Schedule Board and SIC meetings, ensuring maximum attendance from senior stakeholders.
• Prepare, collate, and distribute high-quality agenda packs and papers for the Board in a timely manner.
• Attend Board meetings to take accurate, professional minutes and capture critical action points.
• Maintain and manage the Board Hub, ensuring it acts as a secure, well-organised, and up-to-date digital repository for all company papers, governance documentation, and member details.
• Track key governance deadlines and compliance requirements.

4. External Events & Project Coordination

• Organise and manage logistics for high-level external conferences, meetings, and events involving external partners, the Board, and the SIC.
• Lead the coordination of the annual Board away day.
• Support the logistical delivery of specific programme events, including Dormant Assets (DA) programme wave support and events.
• Work closely with the Programme Manager to ensure the smooth operational delivery of programme-related administrative tasks.
• Organise and manage (Fund Manager Initiative) FMI events for investment managers.

5. Communications & Asset Management

• Keep the Pathway Fund's external communication mediums and digital assets up to date.
• Maintain and update the Pathway Fund website, working with colleagues to publish agreed content.
• Keep the organisational knowledge base accurate and well-maintained.

6. General

• Handle sensitive and confidential information regarding the CEO, Board, and SIC with absolute integrity.
• Act as a culture carrier, modelling professionalism, clarity, and collaboration.

 Person Specification

Essential Criteria

Experience & Skills

• Proven experience in an Executive Assistant, Business Support, or senior governance support role directly supporting senior leaders or C-suite executives.
• Extensive experience supporting Boards, Trustees, or formal committees.
• Experience of preparing high-quality agendas, collating complex papers, and taking accurate minutes for senior or board-level meetings.
• Demonstrable ability to support senior leaders in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities and push back when necessary.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of digital literacy (Microsoft 365 / Google Workspace, document management, video conferencing).
• Confidence in using digital tools, including office software, websites, and content management systems.

Attributes & Approach

• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and reliable.
• Calm under pressure; able to think ahead and anticipate the needs of the CEO and Board.
• Discreet, trustworthy, and comfortable handling confidential information.
• Proactive and solutions-focused – you spot problems early and fix them.
• Confident in tracking and chasing deliverables from colleagues professionally and effectively.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working in the charity, foundation, or social impact sector.
• Interest in racial equity, social justice, or systems change work.

What We Offer

• Holiday Entitlement: 28 days annual leave, 3 days office closure between Christmas and New Year (covering office closure), plus bank holidays.
• Flexible/Hybrid Working: We welcome applications from anywhere in the UK. We operate a remote working policy for long-distance employees where they will be required to attend the office twice a month with some flexibility for key events. Travel costs will be covered for remote employees. Employees based locally are expected to travel to the office 3 days a week.
• Pension Scheme: 5.5% employer pension contribution.
• Professional Development: Dedicated training budget or commitment to continuous learning.
• Culture: The opportunity to be part of a highly collaborative, mission-driven team dedicated to delivering systemic impact and racial equity in the UK social investment ecosystem.