Contract executive jobs in Cambridge, cambridgeshire

WFD’s exciting plans for growth include diversifying our donor funding and delivering our new business development strategy.

As our new Business Development Manager, you will play a central role in expanding our funding portfolio, unlocking new strategic partnerships, and scaling high-impact programmes across more than 50 countries.

Working closely with the Head of Business Development and Funding Partnerships, this role will

Strategy - Actively engage in donor analysis; identifying emerging donor trends and contribute to the diversification of donor funding and the execution of our new business development strategy.

​Systems -​ Review and design effective business development systems and operating procedures.

​Proposals - Lead funding opportunities with institutional donors (FCDO, ISF, EC and other bilateral European donors) including trusts and foundations when renewing or expanding WFD’s non-regional portfolio.

We are looking for the following

• Track record of engaging with, developing and delivering business development strategies.
• At least 4 years’ experience managing end-to-end bid processes.
• Experience writing convincing bids for both grants and commercial contracts.
• Evidence of winning institutional funding.
• Strong understanding of donor landscapes.
• Experience working with global cross-functional teams.
• Strong proposal writing and budgeting skills.
• Proficient in business development systems and operations procedures including designing and implementing.
• Experience in consortium development and strong negotiation skills.
• Strategic and commercially aware.
• Highly organised and able to manage competing priorities.
• A confident communicator and collaborator
• Self-motivated and proactive.

​Apply by 25th May 2026. Upload your CV and Cover Letter directly to our website.

​

Help Change the Future of Polycystic Kidney Disease Research

Patient & Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) Manager

PKD Charity
Remote (UK-based) | Part-time (22.5 hours / 3 days per week)
Salary: £33,000–£35,000 FTE pro rata (£19,800–£21,000 actual)

The PKD Charity is looking for an exceptional communicator and relationship-builder to lead patient involvement in groundbreaking PKD research.

This is not a standard engagement role.

You will help ensure that the voices, experiences and priorities of people living with polycystic kidney disease directly influence research, clinical studies and future healthcare decisions across the UK.

PKD affects around 70,000 people in the UK. It causes kidney failure, lifelong health complications and reduced life expectancy. There is currently no cure.

We believe research is stronger when patients are genuinely heard — not consulted as an afterthought.

That’s where you come in.

The Opportunity

As our Patient & Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) Manager, you’ll lead and shape involvement activity through the PKD Research Hub, working alongside patients, researchers, clinicians and partners to make research more inclusive, meaningful and impactful.

You’ll:

• Lead and support our Patient Involvement Panel
• Facilitate high-quality patient engagement and focus groups
• Work directly with researchers and industry partners
• Champion authentic lived experience in research decision-making
• Support awareness of clinical studies and research opportunities
• Create compelling patient stories and engagement content
• Help influence the future direction of PKD research in the UK

We’re Looking For Someone Who:

• Understands the power of meaningful patient involvement
• Can confidently manage relationships with patients, researchers and stakeholders
• Has experience in PPIE, health research, healthcare or the charity sector
• Is an excellent facilitator and communicator
• Brings empathy, professionalism and initiative
• Wants to make a tangible difference every single day

Experience in rare disease, kidney health or long-term conditions is welcomed but not essential.

Why Join Us?

At the PKD Charity, you’ll join a passionate national charity working to improve lives through:

• Research
• Advocacy
• Support
• Education
• Patient voice

This is a rare opportunity to shape a growing area of work with real national impact — while working flexibly as part of a supportive, mission-driven team.

What We Offer

✔ Fully remote working
✔ Flexible part-time hours (3 days / 22.5 hrs)
✔ 25 days annual leave pro rata + bank holidays
✔ Pension scheme
✔ Meaningful, purpose-driven work
✔ Opportunity to influence national research activity

Apply Now

For details on how to apply, please see the application pack.

Deadline 9am Monday 1st June. Interviews will provisionally be held online on Wednesday 10th June. However we will monitor applications on a rolling basis and may approach for interview at an earlier date. If we find the right candidate we may close the recruitment campaign at an earlier time, so we encourage you to get your applications in at the earliest opportunity.

Role Overview:
The Talent Set are delighted to partner with their client on a fantastic New Business Manager - Corporate Partnerships role. This senior position offers the opportunity to lead strategic corporate partnership development, driving income growth and impactful collaborations within a dynamic, mission-led organisation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a high-level strategy to identify and secure significant new corporate partnerships that support organisational goals.
• Lead a team to deliver a strong pipeline of high-value partnerships, including proposals, negotiations, and closing deals.
• Build and maintain relationships with senior corporate stakeholders, representing the organisation professionally and effectively.
• Oversee the development of compelling partnership proposals, ensuring alignment with organisational values and objectives.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to maximise partnership value, including exploring opportunities for gift-in-kind, volunteering, and other added value.
• Manage and report on team targets, budgets, and risks, ensuring delivery within agreed parameters.
• Lead and support team development, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and inclusive working practices.
• Ensure compliance with relevant governance, legal, and ethical standards in all partnership activities.
• Act as a senior representative where necessary, advocating for the organisation’s mission and goals.

Person Specification:

• Proven experience securing six-figure corporate partnerships with a track record of negotiating and closing complex deals.
• Strong relationship management skills, capable of engaging senior corporate contacts and fostering long-term collaborations.
• Skilled in developing persuasive proposals, pitches, and partnership agreements.
• Experience managing a pipeline, setting targets, forecasting, and reporting on income delivery.
• Ability to lead, mentor, and support team members to achieve shared objectives.
• Knowledge of charity legislation, governance, and ethical fundraising standards.
• Market awareness, with the ability to identify emerging opportunities and sector trends.
• Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to influence and negotiate at senior levels.
• Collaborative and adaptable team player, committed to inclusive and equitable practices.

What’s on Offer:
Salary: £47,000 to £53,000
Location: Remote with occassional travek to London

Contract: 9-month FTC

How to Apply:
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity:
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

Harris Hill is delighted to be supporting Consumers International in their search for a Strategic Growth and Engagement Lead, Sustainability. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone who wants real ownership in their role—where you can take an idea, build it, and run with it on a global stage.

Working at the heart of Consumers International’s sustainability programme, you will drive partnerships, funding and influence across areas such as energy, materials and food systems. This is not a role focused on maintaining the status quo; instead, you’ll have the freedom and trust to shape new opportunities, test ideas and deliver growth that creates genuine global impact, with scope to truly make the role your own.

Key responsibilities

· Build and manage a strong pipeline of global funding and partnership opportunities

· Develop compelling proposals and innovative partnership models

· Lead on relationship management and supporting partners in their Change Network ( you can view here.)

· Shape and deliver a growth strategy for the sustainability programme

· Represent the organisation at international events and forums

· Create opportunities for global members to engage, collaborate and influence

About you

· Proven experience in partnerships, fundraising or business development

· Track record of securing income from foundations, corporates or multilateral organisations

· Experience working across international and cross-sector environments

· A strategic and proactive mindset, with the ability to spot opportunities and run with them

· Strong communication, influencing and relationship-building skills

· A genuine interest in sustainability and systems change

Key details

Salary: Up to £50,000

Location: Fully remote – open to candidates globally

Contract: Full-time

Applications: Rolling basis – please apply ASAP as applications are reviewed weekly

Apply to Hannah at Harris Hill to learn more and get the full job pack

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

Role Overview:
The Talent Set are delighted to partner with the client on a fantastic Philanthropy Manager role. This position involves leading high-value donor strategies and stewardship programmes to support long-term income growth for a health-focused charity. The role offers an exciting opportunity to work on impactful projects within a collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and cultivate a portfolio of major donors, securing multi-year, five-figure gifts.
• Research and identify new high-net-worth prospects using internal and external data sources.
• Develop tailored cultivation and stewardship plans, ensuring timely reporting and engagement.
• Collaborate with senior staff, Trustees, and volunteers to support donor approaches and network expansion.
• Work with internal teams to align projects with donor interests and prepare compelling proposals.
• Support the organisation’s stewardship and events programme, focusing on relationship building.
• Contribute to the development of new fundraising products for major donors.

Person Specification:

• Extensive experience of fundraising from high-net-worth individuals.
• Proven ability to secure significant gifts in a donor relationship management context.
• Skilled in motivating and inspiring stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong network-building experience both internally and externally.
• Experience in designing impactful stewardship programmes and managing high-value events.
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to influence and negotiate.
• Excellent time-management, organisational, and database skills.
• Knowledge of philanthropy, legal, ethical, and financial considerations related to major giving.
• Ability to work flexibly, manage conflicting priorities, and thrive within a collaborative team environment.
• An interest in medical research or healthcare is an advantage.

What’s on Offer:

• Salary: £40,000 (pro-rata) plus London Weighting of £3,000 or Home Allowance of £450 per annum depending on location
• Location: London or remote
• Contract: 9 month FTC

How to Apply:
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity:
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

 Senior Fundraiser (Part-time)

This is an exciting opportunity to take a leading role in shaping Sift's future at a pivotal moment in our journey. 

We support people affected by self-harm with compassionate, non-judgemental services, and demand for our work is growing. As we look ahead to the next phase of development, we are investing in fundraising to help us reach more people who need support. 

We are looking for an experienced, values-led fundraiser who is excited by the opportunity to build, influence, and make a tangible difference. 

Working closely with the CEO, you will lead our fundraising efforts and help us move from a reactive to a more proactive, strategic approach to income generation. 

What you’ll do 

You will play a key role in developing our fundraising including: 

• Leading on fundraising for trusts and foundations fundraising

• Building and managing a strong pipeline of funding opportunities

• Supporting the development of a major donor pipeline

• Overseeing delivery of targeted appeals and up to two campaigns per year

• Strengthening funder relationships and long-term stewardship

Why this role matters 

This role is central to our future. 
Your work will directly increase access to safe, compassionate support for people affected by self-harm and enable us to widen our influence across systems and communities. 

Why join us? 

• Real impact: Work that makes a tangible impact

• Flexibility: A part-time role with flexibility to work 16 hours per week, remotely. 

• Autonomy: Scope to shape and develop our fundraising approach 

• Purpose-driven culture: A small, collaborative team that puts people first

• A pivotal moment: Be part of an organisation evolving and growing its reach

What we’re looking for 

We’re looking for someone who brings both experience and a strong alignment with our values: 

• Proven fundraising experience (particularly trusts and foundations)

• Ability to work independently and prioritise effectively

• Strong writing skills and the ability to tell compelling stories

• Confidence in building and managing relationships

• A thoughtful, proactive approach with a high level of self-direction

If you’re looking for a role where you can shape strategy, work with purpose, and see the real-world impact of your work, we’d love to hear from you. Download the full recruitment pack for more details. We look forward to your application. 

Please note: Although we are based in Bristol, the role can be remote for the right candidate and the 16 hours per week can be flexibly split throughout the week or worked across 2 days. 

Fundraising Officer

We are seeking a proactive and strategic fundraiser to drive income growth and build lasting partnerships for the UK’s National trails.

Position: Fundraising Officer
Salary: £32,000 per annum
Location: Remote with occasional UK travel
Hours: Full time
Contract: 2 year fixed term contract
Closing Date: 22 May 2026 (midnight)
Interview Date: 29 May 2026 (online, with second stage if required)

About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in delivering a fundraising strategy focused on trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships and community engagement.

Working within a small, collaborative team, you will take ownership of funding applications and relationships, helping to grow income and shape the future of the organisation’s development function.

Key responsibilities include:

· Developing and growing the grants portfolio through research and networking

· Writing and submitting high quality funding applications for both core and project funding

· Building and managing relationships with corporate partners and sponsors

· Identifying and securing new partnership opportunities

· Supporting the development of individual giving, including regular giving and legacies

· Managing donor stewardship and maintaining strong relationships

· Engaging with members and supporting their fundraising activity where required

· Maintaining and developing the fundraising CRM database

· Keeping up to date with sector trends and opportunities

About You
You will be a confident, self-motivated fundraiser with a strong track record of securing income and building meaningful relationships.

You will have:

· Experience of trust and grant fundraising, including successful bid writing

· Experience developing and managing corporate partnerships

· Strong networking and relationship building skills

· Experience using charity CRM systems

· The ability to manage your own workload and work proactively

· A collaborative approach and ability to work within a small team

It would also be beneficial if you have:

· Knowledge of membership or infrastructure organisations

· An interest in outdoor access, heritage, or environmental sectors

· Experience working remotely and managing your own schedule

About the Organisation
The charity is the independent champion of the UK’s National Trails – iconic long-distance walking, cycling and riding routes. Connecting people to nature and the outdoors while advocating for accessible, sustainable trail experiences. Since their formation in 2021, they’ve grown quickly with an ambitious vision for a high quality, nature-rich National Trail network used and valued by all.

Other roles you may have experience of could include; Fundraising Executive, Development Officer, Trusts and Grants Officer, Partnerships Officer, Corporate Partnerships Executive, Income Generation Officer

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.

Head of HR
Hours: Full-Time, 36.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £63,000 - £69,000 per annum, depending on experience
Location: Trinity Lane, Cambridge, CB2 1TL

The Role

Are you an experienced HR professional? Do you have a proven track-record of delivering an effective HR service across a complex organisation? Clare College Cambridge seeks to appoint a new Head of HR, in succession to the current post-holder who is retiring after 22 years at the College. This is an exciting opportunity to join a college which seeks to remain at the forefront of education, learning and research.

As Head of HR, you will make a vital contribution to the smooth and effective running of the College by providing relevant, timely and professional HR advice and support, and by ensuring that the HR Department delivers its operations to a high standard.

About Us

Founded in 1326, Clare College is the second oldest of the 31 colleges in the University of Cambridge. Regarded as one of the more progressive and informal, it is renowned as a college that achieves academically at the highest levels, whilst also being welcoming, forward-thinking, and inclusive. Clare College has a small number of academic employees and around 150 non-academic staff across a wide range of departments (including Housekeeping, Hospitality, Buildings and Maintenance, Porters, Finance and Tutorial). Staff support the academic mission of the College as well as its commercial conferencing business.

Located in the heart of Cambridge city centre, the College is extraordinarily beautiful and famed for its gardens on “the Backs” (the famous backs of the Colleges that overlook the River Cam). Clare’s Old Court, a Grade I listed building, is the centre of the College and is unique among the ancient Cambridge Colleges in having maintained its architectural integrity over the course of its history.

About You

You will be an experienced HR professional with a demonstrable ability to multi-task at operational and strategic levels, including policy development, staff engagement, wellbeing and training.  A high degree of discretion, judgement and tact, and the ability to work and remain calm under pressure are all prerequisites, as are a solution-oriented mindset and a focus on continuous improvement. You will be able to deal with people professionally, politely and sensitively at all levels, both verbally and in writing, and to take into account different views or priorities before making balanced recommendations or taking action.

Remuneration will be between £63,000 and £69,000 depending on experience. There will be a four-month probationary period. The role holder will be eligible to join the College’s contributory pension scheme after three months’ service.  In addition to this the post holder would be eligible to park at the College, receive a bonus every year, and meals on duty. We also offer membership of a defined salary sacrifice pension contribution scheme and a Healthcare cash plan.

The closing date for this position is 09:00 BST on Thursday 21 May 2026.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview on the afternoon of Wednesday 27 May 2026.

Interested?

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

We are committed to the principles of equal opportunities, diversity and respect and want to be known as an employer that invests in its staff, recognising and rewarding them for their commitment.

No agencies please.

Lloyds Bank Foundation 

Strategic Lead for Systems Change 

Starting Salary: £59,098 (if London-based); £55,587 (if not London-based) 
Contract: Full-time, 2-year Fixed-Term Contract (we are open to conversations about flexibility - so please ask) 
Location: Remote role - can be based anywhere in England or Wales with an expectation of regular travel across England and Wales including overnight trips to London 

About Lloyds Bank Foundation 

Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales is an independent charitable foundation, backed by Lloyds Banking Group and the people within it. We want everyone to be in a good place - personally, in a home that’s a good place to live, and in a community that’s a good place to belong. 

We play our role by connecting and catalysing community-led change, providing the money, time, tools and connections that build organisations’ capacity and capability, to make people’s lives better and their communities stronger. 

We back people and communities across England and Wales, to make that happen, because when you back brilliant people, brilliant things happen. Our communities are full of ambitious, energetic and determined people stepping up to make their neighbours’ lives better and their communities grow stronger. Day in, day out. 

About the Role 

This is a key role strengthening the Foundation’s ability to work confidently within complex local systems and to support systems change across England and Wales. You will play a central role in shaping and developing our systems change approach, ensuring it is practical, consistent and embedded across our work in places. 

You will work closely with regional teams and partners to support effective collaboration within local systems, ensuring our work is well-informed by context and lived experience. A key part of the role is enabling others - building confidence, capability and practical understanding of systems change across the organisation. 

This is not a delivery-heavy role. Instead, you will focus on enabling, coaching and strengthening practice so that colleagues and partners are better equipped to work within complexity and drive meaningful change. 

About You 

We are looking for someone with strong, practical experience of working within systems change, place-based work or complex multi-stakeholder environments. You will bring confidence in working across boundaries and supporting others to navigate complexity. 

You will be skilled in coaching, facilitation and capability building, with the ability to translate systems thinking into practical approaches others can use. Strong relationship-building skills and the ability to work credibly with a wide range of stakeholders will be essential. 

A commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging is essential. 

How to Apply 

Please click ‘Apply’ to be redirected to our website, where you can download the Candidate Information Pack and find details of how to apply. 

For an informal conversation about the role and application process, please contact our recruitment partner, Atkinson HR via the information available in the Candidate pack.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

We hold Disability Confident Employer status (Level 2) and are working towards full status by 2027. If you are a disabled applicant and your CV and application answers clearly demonstrate that you meet the essential criteria, we will invite you to interview. 

We are committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities we work with. We actively welcome applications from people under-represented in the charity sector, including Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic communities, disabled people, and those with lived experience of the issues our funded charities address. 

Key Dates 

Closing Date: Midday, Monday 8th June 2026 

Optional Q&A Session: Wednesday 6th May 2026 at 09:00-10:00 

First Interview: Wednesday 17th June 2026 

Second Interview: Friday 26th June 2026 

We are seeking an enthusiastic and efficient Partnerships Coordinator to join our dynamic team. The main purpose of this role is to support the delivery of high-quality partner engagement and stewardship, ensuring positive and responsive partner experiences. You will be involved in the development of compelling partner communications, and proactively identifying new funding opportunities. Additionally, there will be opportunity to support the implementation of organisational system and process improvements. Essential attributes for this role include a willingness to learn, enthusiasm, drive and a proactive mindset.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the global health or non-profit sector, keen to work with a collaborative & dedicated team, thrive on building and maintaining strong relationships with corporate partners, and eager to get involved in improving internal systems and processes, we would love to hear from you.

Experience & Skills:

Essential:

• Proven experience in corporate partnerships / fundraising, or transferable skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to confidently and competently interact with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Excellent attention to detail, planning, and organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a small team
• A genuine interest in the global health or non-profit sector
• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn
• Flexibility and ability to prioritise workload

Desirable:

• Familiarity with Salesforce or other CRM system
• Experience in streamlining operational systems and processes

Why join us?

• Be part of a global organisation driving real-world impact
• Support a mission focused on equity, systems change and better health outcomes
• Join a supportive and collaborative team environment

Other essential:

• Must have right to work in UK
• Must be able to travel to London to attend quarterly team meetings

Does every child have the right to "sparkle"? We think so.

At Thriving Through Recreation, we believe that equitable access to hobbies, sports, and the arts is a fundamental part of growing up. We work with children and young people navigating social, emotional, or educational difficulties, helping them find and fund the activities they love in their own communities.

We are looking for a proactive, empathetic, and highly organised Activities Support Co-Ordinator to join our team.

The Role

Working directly with our CEO, you will be the engine room of our Activities Support Programme. This is a primarily remote role, but because our heart is in the community, you must be based in Cambridgeshire to facilitate local connections and occasional travel within the county.

Your day-to-day will involve:

• Connecting: Triage and assess applications, building relationships with families and referring professionals to understand a child’s unique needs.
• Vetting: Conducting risk assessments and due diligence to ensure every activity provider we partner with meets our gold-standard safeguarding requirements.
• Facilitating: Managing the "matchmaking" process—finding the right club, negotiating payments, and tracking the budget.
• Evidencing: Collecting the stories and data that prove our impact, helping us grow and reach more young people.

Who You Are

You are someone who balances a big heart with a sharp eye for detail. You understand that "equity" means doing whatever it takes to level the playing field.

• Experienced: You have a background in social work, youth work, teaching, or a related field. You’ve worked with families facing disadvantage, and you know how to navigate complex family difficulties.
• Qualified: A degree or certification in Social Work, Youth Work, Education or a related field.
• Safeguarding Savvy: A deep understanding of safeguarding principles and child protection procedures.
• Independent: You’re comfortable leading frontline operations autonomously and can manage a budget with precision.
• A Multitasker: Ability to manage a budget, family case load and calendar without breaking a sweat.
• A Great Communicator: Whether you’re on a video call chatting with a parent and child about finger painting or liaising with a local activity provider, you can adjust your style to build rapport instantly.
• Local Knowledge: As a resident of Cambridgeshire, you’ll use your local insight to help expand our reach across the county.

Why Join Us?

• Be a Pioneer: You’ll be instrumental in shaping the future of a rapidly growing charity.
• Impact-Focused: You will see the direct results of your work as children gain confidence and thrive through recreational learning.
• Flexible & Inclusive: We offer remote working and value your unique journey. We encourage applications that evidence these requirements through paid or unpaid roles, as well as personal and professional experience.

Thriving Through Recreation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All short-listed applicants will need to submit a Safeguarding Self-Declaration Form, and all appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

Lloyds Bank Foundation 

Head of Programme Design and Organisational Development 

Starting Salary: £66,438 (if London-based); £61,872 (if not London-based) 

Contract: Full-time, permanent contract (we are open to conversations about flexibility - so please ask) 

Location: Remote role - can be based anywhere in England or Wales with an expectation of frequent travel across England and Wales 

About Lloyds Bank Foundation 

Lloyds Bank Foundation for England and Wales is an independent charitable foundation, backed by Lloyds Banking Group and the people within it. We want everyone to be in a good place - personally, in a home that’s a good place to live, and in a community that’s a good place to belong. 

We play our role by connecting and catalysing community-led change, providing the money, time, tools and connections that build organisations’ capacity and capability, to make people’s lives better and their communities stronger. 

We back people and communities across England and Wales, to make that happen, because when you back brilliant people, brilliant things happen. Our communities are full of ambitious, energetic and determined people stepping up to make their neighbours’ lives better and their communities grow stronger. Day in, day out. 

About the Role 

This is a leadership opportunity to shape how the Foundation designs, delivers and strengthens its programmes across England and Wales. 

As Head of Programme Design and Organisational Development, you will lead the Foundation’s approach to programme design, organisational development and volunteering, ensuring everything we do is high quality, evidence-informed and grounded in lived experience. 

You will set the standards, frameworks and tools that underpin programme design across the organisation, working closely with Programme Leads to design new programmes and strengthen existing ones. You will also lead our organisational development offer, ensuring charities and partners are supported to become stronger, more resilient and better connected. 

Alongside this, you will shape how volunteering contributes to our work, embedding it across programmes and ensuring it supports both community capacity and connection. 

You will work across teams and directorates to ensure programme design, organisational development and volunteering are fully aligned and working together to deliver meaningful community-led change. 

About You 

We’re looking for an experienced and credible leader with a strong background in programme or service design, ideally in complex or multi-partner environments. 

You will bring a deep understanding of how organisational development builds capacity and resilience, alongside experience of using evidence and insight to improve programmes and outcomes. 

You will be confident developing frameworks, standards and approaches that ensure quality and consistency, while also enabling innovation and learning. 

You will be a collaborative and relational leader, with strong partnership skills and the ability to work across internal teams and external organisations. A commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging is essential. 

How to Apply 

Please click ‘Apply’ to be redirected to our website, where you can download the Candidate Information Pack and find details of how to apply. 

For an informal conversation about the role and application process, please contact our recruitment partner, Atkinson HR via the information in the candidate pack.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

We hold Disability Confident Employer status (Level 2) and are working towards full status by 2027. This means that if you're a disabled applicant and your CV and application answers clearly demonstrate that you meet the essential criteria for the role, we will invite you to interview. 

More broadly, we are committed to building a diverse team that reflects the communities and people we work with. We believe that diversity of background, experience and perspective makes us stronger and helps us make better decisions. We actively welcome applications from people who are under-represented in the charity sector, including people from Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic communities, disabled people, and those with experience of the issues our funded charities work to address. 

Key Dates 

Closing Date: Thursday 28th May 2026 

Optional Q&A Session: Wednesday 6th May 2026 at 09:00-10:00 

First Interview: Tuesday 9th June 2026 

Second Interview: Thursday 18th June 2026 

ARUK Advert

The Research & Partnerships Directorate is a fast-paced, collaborative team committed to achieving Alzheimer’s Research UK’s vision. The Directorate has responsibility for delivering on the charity’s principal remit: funding world-class research to ultimately defeat dementia. Alzheimer’s Research UK funds dementia research through a large portfolio of investigator-led grant awards, research fellowships and strategic initiatives within the UK and increasingly internationally.

The Senior Research Funding Manager will work closely with the Head of Research Funding, leading a team focused on delivering our core grants management processes. This role is vital in advancing ARUK's research objectives and promoting engagement within the ARUK-funded research community. They will work collaboratively within the Research & Partnerships directorate and with other teams, including the Communications and Philanthropy teams.

We’re looking for someone with strong research management experience and a good eye for detail who is excited by the opportunities in the dementia research landscape.

Key Responsibilities:

Research Operations Leadership

· Foster and deepen relationships with the global dementia research community, with support of the Research Engagement team, ensuring ARUK remains a trusted leader in funding excellence.

· Provide oversight and functional leadership for research operations across distinctive functions: pre-award, post-award (including invoicing and reporting), and grant system management, ensuring clear ownership, robust processes and alignment with organisational goals and long-term impact.

· Oversee the delivery and continuous improvement of grants review, awarding and management processes, ensuring a high-quality applicant and award-holder experience and timely, accurate, audit-ready outputs aligned with best practice, funding policies and ARUK values.

· Lead research funding governance and policy, ensuring clear decision-making, robust guidance (including due diligence and risk management where appropriate), and consistent application of funding requirements across the end-to-end grant lifecycle.

Scientific Strategy and Innovation

· Provide strategic advice on research funding through horizon scanning and analysis of ARUK’s funding portfolio, identifying gaps/opportunities and shaping options for future funding strategies and schemes.

· Develop and implement new grant schemes and funding initiatives, ensuring alignment with ARUK’s research strategy and the evolving needs of the dementia research community (including early career researchers).

· Build collaborations with leading funding organisations and strategic partners (e.g., AMRC), representing ARUK externally and identifying opportunities to address shared research priorities and drive collective impact.

People Leadership

· Line management of three Research Managers, effectively delegating work to support delivery of their objectives.

· Leadership and development of a wider core team of six, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment.

· Help to promote an inspiring team culture where personal development is prioritised.

Knowledge, skills and experience needed:

· Strong science background, educated to degree level in a relevant subject (preferably with a postgraduate qualification or equivalent work experience).​ 

· Good working knowledge of grant management systems (e.g., Flexigrant).

· Experience of research grant funding/management.

· Excellent interpersonal and relationship management skills, with experience of building and managing relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, at all levels of seniority.​ 

· Experience of developing and delivering strategies, ability to spot opportunities and translate these into operational plans, thinking beyond the immediate issue to look at broader topics or themes.

· Proven ability of planning, managing and delivering projects; ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks, showing adaptability to meet challenging targets and deadlines.​ 

· Experience of line management, including supporting and developing colleagues and, ideally, managing through others (e.g., managing managers or team leads).

· Strong communication skills with the ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences

· A team player who can collaborate effectively with a range of stakeholders internally and externally to deliver.

· Excellent eye for detail with a focus on continuous improvement.

· Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritise competing demands.

· Ability to work independently.

· Willingness to travel, including occasional overnight travel.

· Commitment to ARUK’s vision, mission and values.

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

As part of our Agile ways of working, you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £53,000 per annum, plus benefits.

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 17th May 2026, with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website.

How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure.  Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope. 

There has never been a more important and exciting time in dementia research. With promising new drugs in clinical trials that slow the progression of the diseases that cause it, and revolutionary new ways to diagnose them on the horizon, we are now at a tipping point. Working with the smartest minds globally and across the UK, with industry and academia, Alzheimer’s Research UK is uniquely placed to invest in the very best research identifying barriers to a cure and knocking them down so that there are more and better treatments for everyone with dementia. For the first time in history, we can see a future where people with dementia can get a swift and accurate diagnosis, and effective treatments that could slow or even stop their disease. We stand for everyone affected by dementia. We stand for a cure. 

In 2024, we were incredibly proud to be awarded a 3-star accreditation by Best Companies which recognises ‘World Class’ levels of workplace engagement. This is the second consecutive time; we have been awarded a Best Companies 3-star accreditation.

We were also listed in the prestigious Best Companies lists:

· 18th in the 100 Best Large Companies to Work For in the UK.

· 10th in the 50 Best Companies to Work For in the East of England.

· 2nd in the 30 Best Companies to Work For in the Charity Sector.

ARUK really does look after its people, where you will be able to add value and make a difference. 

To view further details about working for us and the benefits we offer, please visit Alzheimer’s Research UK

Bowel Cancer UK is the UK’s leading bowel cancer charity. We’re determined to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by bowel cancer. We support and fund targeted research, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, educate the public and professionals about the disease and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.

We currently have employees working across four nations in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’re in a privileged position to be able to deliver our ambitious new strategy, On a Mission. There are huge challenges facing bowel cancer patients across the UK and our community needs us now more than ever. We’re building a strong and united team to bring us closer to a world where nobody dies of bowel cancer.

Job Summary

This role forms a key part of a new Strategy & Insight Team at Bowel Cancer UK, which seeks to build core capabilities to enable us to be as effective as we can be for people affected by bowel cancer. The Audience Insight Specialist will be an internal leader, building our capability to understand our core audiences and the people we need to reach to achieve our strategic goals. You will support a cultural shift in how the charity takes an audience-led approach to planning, decision-making, and communications, as our CRM, data infrastructure, and Strategy & Insight functions continue to develop. Making best use of internal and external sources, you will distil data into meaningful insight, tailored to different audiences. You will support a consistent approach to audiences across the organisation, while flexing to meet the needs of different teams, ensuring that any understanding of audience is rooted in evidence.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and at Bowel Cancer UK we are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Successful candidates may be subject to either a satisfactory basic, standard or enhanced DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dependent upon the role.