Director of development and engagement jobs

About Ataxia UK  

Ataxia is the umbrella term for a group of neurological conditions and Ataxia UK is the UK’s 
leading ataxia support and research charity. Ataxia UK collaborates with the global ataxia 
community through our Research team, we are on the board of the international non-profit 
association, Euro-ataxia. Of relevance to this role is the partnership with the US Foundation 
CureDRPLA to advance research specficially on DRPLA (dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy), a 
neurodegenerative condition and rare form of ataxia . Our Services team focuses on helping 
everyone affected by ataxia in the UK to live their best life. We have a Helpline and Advocacy 
service providing information, advice, and 1-2-1 support to help people access their rights; whilst 
the Community Engagement service provides activities, engagement and volunteering 
opportunities to bring the ataxia community together and reduce feelings of isolation.

About the Role    

To support the Director of Research in managing the DRPLA Research 
Programme in collaboration with CureDRPLA. This programme aims to 
advance research towards treatments for DRPLA, and you will oversee 
projects from preclinical research to clinical trial readiness

Benefits of working for us.  

• 25 days annual leave pro rata (rising to 30 with a length of service) 

• Extra holiday day for your birthday 

• Access to a free Employee Assistance Programme & Employee Hotline 

• Flexible hybrid working 

• Pension scheme 

• Enhanced maternity and co-parental leave 

• Cycle to work scheme 

• Training and development opportunities 

• Accredited Living Wage Employer 

Please see full Job Description for further details including Person Specifications. 

Your covering letter should include why you are interested in this post and how you think you are suitable for it. Both the covering letter and the CV will be used to assess you against the person specification for this role.

We may close this advert sooner than 18th May if we receive a large number of applicants.

Anticipated interview dates are 1st/2nd June.

About Action Tutoring
At Action Tutoring, we believe every child should be given the opportunity to succeed in school. But in the UK today, young people from disadvantaged backgrounds are less likely to 

achieve the grades they need to progress in life. This isn't because they are any less able; they have less access to the tools to help them reach their potential. 
 

We don't think this is fair. We know tutoring is an effective way of improving academic attainment and so we harness the power of volunteer tutors to bridge the gap and ensure this help can be accessed by every pupil who needs it, not just those who can afford it. 
 

We specifically help pupils facing socio-economic disadvantage and who are at risk of leaving primary or secondary school without reaching national standards in their exams. We work in partnership with schools in different cities and regions across the UK, delivering weekly tutoring in English or maths to those pupils who need it most. 
 

About the opportunity
The Director of Finance and Operations works closely with the CEO to build the organisation, operations and systems to enable us to scale and respond to emerging opportunities. A critical strategic role, they are a hands-on financial leader that brings strategic insight and challenge. Passionate about our mission, they lead a small team and use their experience and expertise to make our strategy a practical reality.

Closing date: Sunday, 17th May 2026
Interviews:Thursday, 28th and Friday, 29th May 2026, in our London office. There will be a second round of interviews.
Start date: Ideal start date is asap. However, we’re happy to wait for the ideal candidate.
Contract and hours: Permanent. Full time. We offer flexible hours with 9.30-4 as core hours. A full working week is 37.5 hours. 
Place of work:  Hybrid/flexible. This role requires 6 days a month in our London Office, Fivefields, Grosvenor Gardens, London SW1W 0DH.

Duties and responsibilities
 
Finance

Lead financial strategy and long-term planning to support the development of the organisation, as well as holding overall responsibility for finance processes and controls. 
 

Operations

Drive continuous improvement of operations to increase productivity, quality of delivery and value for money. With the operations team, provide oversight of all operational matters to ensure compliance and the smooth running of the organisation.
 

HR and team development

Action Tutoring has a Head of People & Culture who oversees day-to-day HR operations. However, with a permanent staff team of around 60, this role holds strategic responsibility for talent development and HR processes. This includes training and development strategy, effective diversity and inclusion policies and regular reviews of performance and reward systems.
 

Senior Leadership 

As one of the four members of the Senior Leadership Team of Action Tutoring, you will contribute to leadership decision-making, representing your own areas of expertise but also advocating for the best strategic options for the charity as a whole. 
 

Legal compliance, risk management and governance

This role ensures legal compliance of the organisation.
 

Line management

Overseeing a small team, this role has direct line management responsibility for the Head of People & Culture, the Operations Manager, and the Senior Finance Officer. You will also, with support from your team, manage relationships with external support agencies, including the outsourced management accountant, IT support company, and HR and employment law consultancy.
 

This role also plays a key part in a number of internal working groups, including leading the Digital Systems working group and serving as a member of both the Sustainability and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion working groups.
 

A full list of duties and responsibilities can be found in the job description attached to the BreatheHR advert.

Person specification
 
Qualifications criteria: 

• The right to work in the UK.

We are looking for some of the following attributes, though you might be more experienced in some areas than others:

• Deep finance and operations experience as well as a track record of strategy development. You will have significant experience overseeing finances and managing budgets and be able to demonstrate a high level of understanding of financial management and forecasting within a fundraising setting. Familiarity with charity accounting and SORP will be essential. 
• Someone with the ability to see the big picture and lead long-term strategy while being able to zoom into the detail and set high-expectations for the team and wider organisation. 
• An excellent eye for detail and an experienced project manager who relishes delivering long-term projects through to completion, you will be a self-starter with a strong ability to take initiative to drive change.
• An ability to identify areas for organisational development and growth. You are someone who leads change and development. Alert to reputational risk, proactively preventing errors.
• An established track record in delivering results in a growing environment at the management level.
• Experience with a range of business functions and systems, including budgeting, finance, legal, IT and human resources or a willingness to build expertise in these areas.
• Understanding of developing policies and procedures; experience in good governance practices, including:
  • Familiarity with routine HR legislation and processes.
  • A good understanding of GDPR compliance and processes.
  • Familiarity with reporting at Trustee level (or equivalent). 
• Excellent team leadership skills. 
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. 
• A commitment to the mission and values of Action Tutoring.
• A commitment to promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children.
• Always aiming to help more pupils and have a bigger impact, we continually seek ways to improve tasks, processes and culture.

You will likely be more successful in this role if you have: 

• Additional formal qualifications relevant to the role (e.g. qualified accountant, MBA, CIPD Level 7).
• Experience or knowledge of safeguarding procedures.
• Digital transformation project management.
• Experience in the charity sector or the education sector, particularly in charity legislation and accounting.
• Experience in monitoring and evaluation processes and/or school data.
• Experience in improving systems and processes.

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

Salary: £87,500 per annum

Hours: 37.5 hours per week 

Location: Hybrid – remote/Exeter with regular attendance at HQ, plus regular travel to other DAA sites and events as required

Duration: Permanent 

The Role

The Income Generation Director plays a pivotal leadership role in enabling Devon Air Ambulance to deliver its mission through strong, trusted relationships with the public, supporters, partners and stakeholders. You will be responsible for the strategic leadership of income generation, communications and public engagement, as the Income Generation Director brings together fundraising, marketing, communications and commercial activity to grow support for Devon Air Ambulance and generate long-term sustainable income.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will contribute to the development and delivery of the corporate strategy, providing insight, challenge and leadership across the organisation. You will hold responsibility for public engagement and income generation activity across both the Charity and the Trading Company. The postholder will need to be willing to hold/apply for a Gambling Commission Personal Management Licence for the lottery.

The Candidate

We're seeking an inspirational leader who is collaborative and open, and can provide cross-departmental support to all teams, with the ability to achieve strategic goals. The ideal candidate will be able to role model a culture of integrity, honesty and openness with demonstrable experience of senior leadership within public engagement, income generation communications, marketing or a related field. They will have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to build effective partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, being able to influence and have a tangible impact on income generation. The candidate will be able to operate in a dynamic and high-profile environment with the confidence to innovate and take informed risks. 

As the role will require engagement with communities, staff and supporters across the county, it is essential that the candidate has a full driving licence. 

The Package

Salary: £87,500 per annum.

As a valued member of the team you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including:

• 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays (pro rata)
• Maternity/Paternity & Adoption leave
• Pension scheme
• Occupational sick pay scheme
• Free counselling and financial wellbeing services
• Up to £8,000 relocation package available if eligible. 

Find out more about our staff benefits on our website.

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience and career.

The Opportunity

Engagement is becoming central to how school leaders think about improvement. The 2026 White Paper reframed it as a lead indicator of school improvement. Ofsted's new framework gives it weight. MAT CEOs and headteachers increasingly want termly data they can act on, and TEP is built to provide exactly that.

We have a strong foundation in the North of England, as a region with some of our founding partners, including Outwood Grange Academies Trust, The Education Alliance, BDAT and Pathfinder were among our Research in the Commission for Engagement and a Lead Indicator and we are proud to still have in our community. However, there is still substantial appetite across the North for TEP to give trust and school leaders precision they can act on. There is a pipeline of interested trusts. And there is real opportunity to shape a regional story (events, flagship partnerships, local authority engagement) that compounds as partnerships grow.

The Regional Director will own that opportunity and lead business development in the region. You'll be building on a proven product and a credible research base, and joining at the point where regional presence matters most. Early work will focus on opening new partnerships at trust level, stewarding a small number of strategic relationships with sector bodies and Teaching School Hubs, and establishing TEP as a trusted voice in the region.

What you'll inherit

• A proven platform and service offer. Validated by 600+ UK schools, designed around the rhythms of the school year, supporting school leaders across the country.

• Support from our Partnerships Director. Working closely with Jess Easton, Director of Partnerships and Insights, who is actively involved in regional strategy, as well as support from our Regional Director (Agnes Fitzpatrick) who works in the South of England.

• Partnerships team support. A Marketing function, a Community team handling delivery, and colleagues across ImpactEd Group opening doors.

• Early pipeline to build on. Warm conversations with trusts in the region, and a growing profile in the sector to build on.

• Real commercial ambition. Clear termly targets, a performance-related pay structure, and the opportunity of employee shares through EMI.

• A base in Leeds. A vibrant, accessible city-centre office two minutes from Leeds station, in the heart of the tech hub of the north.

The role

You'll lead TEP's growth and business development across the North of England: opening new partnerships with schools and trusts, stewarding strategic relationships with sector bodies, and shaping how TEP shows up in the region. You'll have real autonomy, backed by a Director who's hands-on with strategy, a growing marketing function, and the research weight of ImpactEd Group behind you.

There are three main areas of responsibility:

• Winning new partnerships: Lead new business across the North of England, opening conversations with schools and trusts, converting them into partnerships, and delivering against termly targets.

• Growing strategic partnerships: Steward the region's highest-value partnerships (typically Teaching School Hubs, sector bodies, or place-based local authority partnerships), leading the relationship and evidencing TEP's impact.

• Contributing to TEP more broadly: Feed regional intelligence into TEP's business planning: where the growth is, where the risks are, and help embed scalable ways of working.

About you

We are open to a range of backgrounds, though it is likely the successful candidate will have significant experience working in or closely with schools and education, and experience in selling products or developing partnerships with school leaders. This role offers hybrid working, with 3 days per week in the office or on the road. You should be willing to travel across the North of England for partner meetings, conferences and events (approximately 50% of your time), with occasional UK-wide travel.

What you'll need

• Experience working within or closely with UK schools, Local Authorities and multi-academy trusts, ideally with an existing network across Northern England

• A demonstrable track record in partnership development, account management, or educational sales

• Experience presenting to a senior education leaders (Headteachers, CEOs, Directors)

• A strong understanding of school budgeting cycles and decision-making processes

• Experience delivering presentations or public speaking.

What will set you apart

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to develop compelling value propositions

• Entrepreneurial, pragmatic and solution-focused: you can think on your feet and adapt to change

• Comfortable with targets while maintaining a relationship-focused approach

• Self-motivated, with a consultative rather than transactional sales approach

• A clear passion for improving school engagement and supporting school leaders

• Excited to join a young organisation and help shape its growth in the coming years

We are an ambitious team incubated and supported by ImpactEd Group. The role would be employed by TEP Services Limited.

This is an exciting opportunity to direct our grant awarding as Programmes Director, 37.5 hours per week, based in Cornwall and able to work from CCF’s office in Bodmin at least two days a week.

Salary: £42,000-£45,000 per annum depending on experience

The Programmes Director is a key role within Cornwall Community Foundation (CCF) and is responsible for leading the development and management of CCF’s grant making programmes and measuring our impact.

At the Cornwall Community Foundation, we believe in a positive life in Cornwall for all, free from poverty and social isolation. Our aim is to change people’s lives for the better by helping local communities.

If you have previous knowledge of the voluntary sector, particularly in Cornwall, and are looking for a wide variety of responsibilities working to tight deadlines, we want to hear from you. We offer a friendly environment to work in and you'll be joining a team who really are making a difference in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Please download the application pack from the Cornwall Communitty Foundation website.

To apply for this post please send your CV and covering letter. (Incomplete applications will not be considered). CCF are committed to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion across our funding portfolio and staff team. We particularly welcome applications from people who identify as LGBTQ+, those with disabilities, those from lower socio-economic backgrounds and/or those from racialised communities.

Closing date 11 May 2026.

Are you a commercially minded fundraiser, passionate about garnering support for a cause you love? Come and join #TeamMercury as our new Head of Development and Partnerships.

We are looking for someone with a strong track record in identifying and securing funding, building commercial partnerships, and nurturing meaningful strategic relationships that drive sustainable growth.

The successful candidate is creative, highly collaborative and forward-thinking. You will bring experience across a range of fundraising approaches and the ability to make the most of a mix of commercial streams. We would love to hear from you!

To find out more, download the candidate pack.

Applications close at 10am on Monday 18 May 2026. First round of interviews will take place on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.

As the Interim Director of Services, you will join our Leadership Team as the driving force behind our service delivery and performance, cultivating an inclusive and supportive culture.

The successful candidate will bring strong operational leadership and a deep understanding of mental health services. They will be committed to building trusted, empowered teams and strengthening authentic partnerships that reflect the diversity and needs of our local communities.

The Interim Director of Services will have overall responsibility for the strategic oversight and operational management of MindTHNR services, ensuring services are user-led, safe, evidence-based, and sustainable. Working as part of the Leadership Team and reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you will champion the internal culture at MindTHNR, specifically driving forward our commitment to being a truly anti-discriminatory and inclusive organisation and creating space for honest conversations and feedback.

We are looking for a candidate who has demonstrable experience in a senior operations role and is excited by the challenge of leading high-impact and successful operations teams.

MediCinema is a unique and pioneering charity working at the heart of NHS hospitals to improve the wellbeing of patients, families and carers through the transformative power of cinema. For 25 years, we have brought the magic of film to people experiencing some of the most difficult moments of their lives—helping to reduce pain, anxiety, stress and loneliness, and offering a vital sense of normality, connection and hope.

Operating fully accessible cinemas built inside hospital environments, our state-of-the-art spaces accommodate hospital beds, wheelchairs, and essential medical equipment, ensuring a safe and supportive experience for patients of all ages and backgrounds. Thanks to strong partnerships with major film studios and distributors, we screen the latest releases every week, free of charge, for thousands of patients across the UK.

MediCinema’s national footprint continues to grow, with cinemas across the UK, including London, Newcastle, Glasgow, Newport and Liverpool. Recognised with BAFTA’s Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award in 2025, we are now entering an exciting phase of strategic expansion—aiming to establish a MediCinema in every NHS region across the UK.

To ensure our growth is supported, we are seeking a values-driven Director of Finance and Business Operations to join our senior leadership team at a pivotal moment in our growth.

Director of Finance and Business Operations

MediCinema

London Bridge (3 days per week) + Hybrid working

Up to £72,000

The role

Reporting to the CEO, this new role will ensure MediCinema’s financial strength, operational excellence and people-centred culture as we consolidate our recent growth and proceed with our plans for more sites across the UK. You will lead finance, HR and organisational operations, overseeing systems, compliance and high-quality corporate services that support our national expansion.

From financial planning and audit, to overseeing IT and digital development, to ensuring a solid HR strategy and people practices, you will ensure the infrastructure behind our therapeutic services remains robust, efficient and future-ready. A hands-on leader (supported by external experts), you will bring clarity, rigour and creativity to a purpose-led charity striving to improve patient experiences across the NHS.

About you

We are seeking a collaborative, ambitious and hands-on leader with:

• Solid experience overseeing finance functions, budgeting, forecasting and statutory reporting
• A strong understanding of HR, operations, compliance and governance in small or growing organisations
• Excellent project management skills and a proactive, solutions-focused approach
• The ability to build supportive, trusting relationships across a small, dedicated team and with external advisors
• A deep connection to MediCinema’s mission and values: Care, Connect, Create

Experience in the charity, health or social impact sectors, as well as an accounting qualification, are desirable but not essential.

How to Apply

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

If you have any queries or wish to have an informal discussion about the opportunity, please contact our retained advisors Anna Gardet or Erica Ritchie via email with a copy of your CV.

Recruitment Timetable 

Deadline for applications:  Sunday 10th May 2026

Interviews with Prospectus: 15-21st May 2026

Engagement sessions with senior leadership team: 29th May 2026

Interviews with MediCinema: Week commencing 1st June 2026

Role: Director of Fundraising

Salary: £80,533.78 (gross) per annum inclusive of London Weighting, with a fixed sum allowance of £2,764. 

Current employees in banding 53 will maintain their existing salary.

Location: Head Office- London

Duration: Permanent

The Labour Party is looking to recruit a Director of Fundraising. The post-holder will be responsible for leading the development and delivery of a strategic, multi-layered fundraising programme, maximising mid and high value income to support the organisation’s short, medium, and long-term electoral objectives. The postholder will align fundraising strategy with the political electoral cycle, ensuring sustainable income growth, effective donor engagement, and the financial resilience required to deliver Political campaign success at all levels.

The successful candidate will have:

• Experience working in a fast paced, high pressure environment, managing political risk 

• Proven track record of success in project management, through the complete project life cycle, preferably in complex situations 

• The ability to produce overarching fundraising strategies and to ensure their effective implementation

• Proven and successful experience of fundraising and income generation activity

The Labour Party’s standard working arrangement is that all employees based in headquarters in London/Newcastle attend their contracted office four days per week, Monday to Thursday. Home working is only authorised on Fridays.

The deadline for applications is 17 May 2026.

The Labour Party values equality and diversity, and welcomes applications from candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marriage and civil partnership, or pregnancy and maternity.

“The go-to organisation for a public health perspective”.

(Senior UK Government official)

The Association of Directors of Public Health (ADPH) is the representative body for Directors of Public Health in the UK. It has a rich heritage, with its origins dating back more than 160 years and is a collaborative organisation working in partnership with others to maximise the voice for public health.

We are now seeking a new Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through the next phase of its evolution, maintaining and building upon its established reputation and influence. The role requires a wide-ranging set of skills, capabilities and experience, proven leadership and credibility at the highest level. The successful candidate will have strong negotiating and influencing skills, and the ability to work independently, with board-level accountability, and be expected to develop and sustain extensive national networks across local authorities, the NHS, the voluntary sector and central Government. Possessing an adaptability in working practice together with a self-motivated, proactive approach that performs well under pressure, the successful candidate will be educated to Masters level with ongoing study in public health. In addition, they should have senior management training or equivalent experience and a clear record of continuing professional development. Experience should include at least five years in the public health environment, including in policy development, plus a minimum of three years in operational, financial and resource management.

Accountable to our Board of Trustees and the wider membership, the new CEO will develop the strategic direction of the Association and lead the organisation to deliver a rolling medium-term Strategic Business Plan, balanced budgets and effective governance in compliance with company and charity law. An ability to prioritise planned and reactive work programmes to meet the needs of our membership is required, alongside the sourcing and delivery of timely bids for external funding together with the management of staff and resources to ensure value for money and staff wellbeing.

The post holder will support the President, Vice‑President, Board and ADPH Council by applying public health knowledge through teaching, coaching, publishing and presenting as appropriate, maintaining a personal programme of continuing professional development, and be expected to uphold the Association’s values of members first, excellence, collaboration, inclusion and professionalism. Occasional travel, throughout the UK, and flexibility for occasional evening or weekend work will also be necessary.

To apply, submit a CV and a covering letter outlining your leadership experience, strategic achievements and vision for supporting Directors of Public Health across the UK.

The Kids Network is looking for an Executive Director to support the Fundraising, Finance and Operations of the charity for an interim period. 

• Contract: Fixed 12-14-month contract depending on availability for start date – Full time 35 hours per week 

• Salary: £60,000 per annum 

• Location: London Victoria/ Hybrid 

• Some evening and weekend work may be required, which can be claimed as TOIL 

• Reporting to the CEO 

• Line Management of 3x staff

About the Charity 

A rare opportunity to lead a values-driven children's charity through an exciting chapter of its story. 

The Kids Network is a growing charity with an ambitious five-year strategy and a decade of impact behind us. We connect children facing adversity with caring mentors from their own communities, creating relationships that change trajectories. In 2027 we celebrate our 10th anniversary and this role sits right at the heart of that milestone. 

We're a small, high-performing team of 16 who care deeply about the children and families we serve. We work hard, we learn constantly, and we look after each other. Now, while our Managing Director is on maternity leave, we're looking for an exceptional interim leader to hold the organisation steady and help it thrive. 

About the role: 

As Interim Executive Director, you'll be deputy to the CEO and a core member of our Senior Leadership Team. You'll hold the big picture: strategy, governance, finance, and fundraising, whilst also being across our operations and being present and part of the day-to-day. From Board engagement and risk management to leading our impact report and driving our plans for our 10th anniversary event, no two weeks will look the same. 

You'll lead and line-manage talented team members across fundraising, school partnerships, and operations. You'll be the steady hand that keeps our income pipeline strong and our systems running smoothly. 

This role would suit you if, you're a leader who balances strategic thinking with being genuinely hands-on. You stay calm under pressure, make clear decisions when they're needed, and take people with you rather than leaving them behind. 

Mission matters to you. Working to improve the lives of underserved children is something you care about, not just a role you're filling. You'll champion our values, model our culture and behaviours, and bring the team with you in doing the same. 

You're well-suited to the interim context. You’re able to build trust quickly, make an impact from day one, and build on what's already working well. You're comfortable with a varied workload and have the experience to make good decisions for the benefit of the children we work with. 

Benefits: 

• Flexible working arrangements (mostly working from home, with approximately one-two days a week working from the office)   

• Option for 2 Me days   

• 25 days annual leave entitlement

• Option to swap bank holidays for other religious holidays  

• Team Socials  

• Birthdays off  

• Working in a value led organisation, where we see and share the impact we have on children every day 

Responsibilities 

Strategy & Leadership 

• Provide executive leadership to the organisation, fostering a high-performance, inclusive and values-led culture aligned with the charity’s mission. 

• Lead, support, and develop the Senior Leadership Team and Fundraising and Schools Partnership leaders, ensuring consistent performance and accountability. 

• Inspire and motivate staff, promoting engagement, foster a learning culture, create ownership, and commitment to organisational goals. 

• Work with the CEO, Board, and Senior Leadership Team to shape and deliver the charity’s third year of its five-year strategy, ensuring alignment with the funding landscape and the evolving needs of children and communities. 

• Deputise for the CEO when required, including Board engagement, strategic decision-making, and external representation. 

• Act as an ambassador for TKN, promoting its work and campaigns to engage, influence, and collaborate with key stakeholders. 

Governance & Operations:

• Lead the Operations function. Manage the Systems and Operations Officer to ensure our robust systems and operations continue to run effectively at a high quality and enable the charity to achieve its stated goals. 

• Provide executive oversight of HR, demonstrating knowledge of HR compliance and law, supporting with serious HR matters and providing leadership support on people matters, performance management and staff development.

• Oversee the use of key technology platforms, ensuring that the charity is operating in the most efficient way, in accordance with UK GDPR and promoting data hygiene and security and supporting the Operations officer to develop guides and standard operating procedures 

• Hold executive accountability for organisational compliance, risk management, and operational integrity. Act as the lead for the charity in the event of a serious data or H&S incident. 

• Lead the organisational risk register and risk management, ensuring risks are proactively identified, mitigated, managed and communicated to our board of Trustees and the CEO 

• Maintain awareness of relevant policy, legislative, regulatory, and sector developments, ensuring organisational readiness and compliance. 

• Work closely with the CEO and chair of the Resource Committee to set the agenda and plan for papers for this committee (3 times a year). 

• Act as the key contact with the landlord and the charity’s IT contractors, as and when required 

Income Generation, Partnerships and Communication:

• Oversee the coordination and delivery of key fundraising activities, supporting the organisation’s income generation through strategic oversight and targeted input where required. Lead and line manage the Fundraising and Development Lead.

• Play a key role in planning and delivering the 10-year anniversary event in May 2027. 

• Develop, manage, and strengthen high-level strategic funder relationships and networks, building a strong pipeline of partnerships to support income targets.

• Lead and line manage the Schools and Partnerships Lead to achieve ambitious school targets and secure positive partnerships with schools

• Utilise the organisation’s data systems to identify relevant insights and stories, leading the development of the 2026 Impact Report. 

• Work with the external Marketing Provider and Schools and Partnerships Lead to deliver the organisation’s communications strategy to maintain a strong digital and online presence 

Finance & Sustainability 

• Hold accountability for the operational delivery and financial sustainability of the charity. 

• Work closely with the CEO and external Financial Service Provider to develop organisational budgets, support with the annual independent examiner and ensure effective financial planning, management, and oversight. 

• Ensure financial performance, risks, and forecasts are clearly and appropriately communicated to the CEO, Board. 

• Support income sustainability by aligning delivery with funding strategy and identifying opportunities for growth and partnership. 

• Act as main liaison between the charity and the Financial Service Provider, ensuring that both the charity and contractor adhere to the organisation's financial procedures 

Personal Specification 

Strategic Leadership & Drive 

• Proven senior leadership experience at director level or equivalent in the charity, public, or social sector, including leading teams and engaging boards. 

Organisational governance 

• Financial acumen; comfortable owning budgets, managing forecasts, approving payments and communicating financial health clearly to the board. 

• Sound knowledge of charity governance, HR, GDPR, risk management, and regulatory compliance. 

• Excellent organisational & project management skills 

Vision, stakeholder engagement and influence 

• Experience cultivating strategic partnerships with schools, funders, and external stakeholders. 

• A track record of building funder relationships and driving income generation, with confidence overseeing fundraising strategy and pipelines. 

• Advanced communication skills, someone who can represent the organisation externally with credibility and warmth. 

Change Management & Adaptability 

• Experience in an interim/ short term role 

• Strong people management skills, with a warm and accountable approach to developing and supporting others. 

Desirable:  

• Experience working directly with school and corporate partnerships 

• Experience using Salesforce.  

• Experience working with trustees

How to apply & Dates 

To apply please submit a CV and a covering letter through Charity Jobs, ensuring the cover letter is no more than 2 pages.

The ideal start date is August 2026 

The interview process and dates will be: 

• Rolling initial conversations as and when suitable candidates apply 

• First formal interviews (online) 27th May 

• Final interviews & presentation (in person) 2nd June

Due to the size of the Charity, we are unable to respond to all applications, therefore if you do not hear from us to arrange an interview you have not been successful with your application.  

The Kids Network is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to apply for an enhanced DBS check.  

Safeguarding commitment   

The Kids Network is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to go through our safer recruitment processes, including an enhanced DBS check.   

Equity commitment      

The Kids Network values diversity and inclusion and we have worked to create an application process that is as accessible as possible, however we still recognise that there is maybe more we can do especially for applicants who are minoritised in society, have specific accessibility needs and/or experience discrimination.    

 If this is the case we are both happy and open to discussing better ways to support your candidacy and make this application process as equitable as possible for you.    

 We are a diverse organisation and welcome everyone but it is important to note that the intersections of your identity will not increase or affect the amount of labour you are asked to do. If you wish to draw on your own lived experiences that will be both encouraged and supported but it is not nor ever will be a prerequisite of this role.   

You can find out more about our commitment to anti-oppression on our website.  

The Chief Executive & Creative Director holds the most senior post at Dance City, unites the creative and strategic functions of the organisation, and is accountable to the board of trustees for the good management and impact of the charity. The Chief Executive & Creative Director leads and works collaboratively with the board, senior management team (SMT) and stakeholders and partners to ensure that Dance City creates opportunities for people to create, produce and experience dance at its very best. The Chief Executive & Creative Director drives the business, identifying commercial opportunities, securing financial resilience, and ensuring that Dance City’s programme is at the vanguard of sustainable dance development in the region. The Chief Executive & Creative Director is based in the northeast and plays an active role in the social life and cultural communities of the region. 
 

Role Profile and Person Specification 

Key deliverables 

• Lead on Dance City’s vision, values and organisational objectives and ensure the relevance and sustainability of its creative programme.

• Ensure there is alignment between Dance City’s creative ambitions and its business needs and that all activity is delivered to the highest possible standards to plan and within budget.

• Grow the organisation’s earned income and shape and set targets for initiatives embracing commercial ventures, corporate partnerships, public funding, trusts and foundations and individual philanthropy.

• Be accountable to the board and to funding bodies, and for the responsible stewardship of Dance City.

• Ensure a strong profile and reputation for the organisation and for dance practice locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. 

• Initiate, develop and sustain partnerships with existing and potential funders and key stakeholders. 

• Lead and enable the senior team; motivate, inspire, and support the development of the wider staff team.

Role profile 

Leadership and governance  

• Develop and monitor the strategic plan with the SMT and Board. 

• Work closely with the Chair and Trustees to ensure the good governance of the charity and that organisational performance is structured and monitored using well articulated, achievable KPIs. 

• Support Trustees in being an effective Board, ensuring it comprises the appropriate range of skills and has access to training and development opportunities.

• Deploy Trustees’ skills and networks to identify and activate opportunities for commercial development and business growth.

• Be an inclusive leader, collaborate with and empower the SMT, and motivate, support and develop the wider staff team. 

Advocacy, profile and civic engagement 

• Promote the profile and reputation of Dance City locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

• Initiate and enable constructive debate about dance and its development by artists, policy-makers and the public, and to promote Dance City’s role in dance leadership.

• Articulate the transformative potential of dance in enabling social cohesion, the centrality of its place in the wider creative industries sector, and its potential, through civic partnerships and collaboration, to make a major contribution to the economy and well being of the city and region. 

• Ensure Dance City is part of local, regional, national  and international arts discussions and networks, is represented at key events and viewed as crucial to decision-making processes in the dance and wider cultural and social sectors.

• Be the face of Dance City in professional and community networks and at events in the northeast; communicate and advocate for its plans and ambitions to the widest range of people including politicians, the media, funders, artists, audiences and the public.

Creative 

• Shape, co-create and communicate the creative vision for Dance City. 

• Oversee the development and delivery of a creative programme which appeals to a wide range of audiences, demonstrates excellence, and sets out to grow appetite and demand for diverse dance experiences. 

• Build and manage sustainable commercial and funding partnerships which will enhance the profile of the programme and enable the commissioning, programming and presentation of dance within and beyond Dance City.

• Oversee the evaluation of the programme, to ensure quality, to engage in reflection and implement learning with colleagues.

• Maintain an overview of the local and national dance ecology in order to inform advocacy and planning.

Brand, commercial performance and income 

• Oversee the design and delivery of effective marketing and communications strategies that are developed and effectively delivered, to retain existing and grow new audiences for dance in the northeast and to promote the Dance City brand.

• Be proactive in the development and delivery of effective fundraising and income generation strategies for Dance City, to ensure that contributed income grows and is diversified, and to develop commercial opportunities enabled by the building and programme. 

• Play an active role in identifying and approaching prospective donors, sponsors and funding partners.

• Develop, maintain, and strengthen relationships with existing and potential supporters and to lead on key public funding and donor relationships.

Finance and operations  

• Be accountable for the financial operation of the organisation, ensuring budgets are set and monitored, appropriate financial policies and procedures are in place, compliance with appropriate legal and fiscal frameworks is followed, and that there is timely reporting to the relevant funders and authorities.

• Oversee and ensure the smooth and efficient management of Dance City’s facilities and infrastructure.

• Ensure Dance City remains a visible champion of environmental responsibility.

• Ensure the organisation is fully compliant with all legal requirements, including health and safety, and that all staff are trained appropriately. 

People and culture 

• Set the tone for and model the organisational culture, be an inclusive and consultative leader, championing employee wellbeing and engagement. 

• Ensure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place for recruitment, induction, appraisals and the professional development of staff.

• Ensure the organisation upholds its principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, valuing the wellbeing of all colleagues.

Person specification  

Essential  

• Has held a senior role in a cultural venue or within an organisation with a substantial arts programme or partnerships; is well networked in and beyond the cultural and creative industries. 

• Understanding of the current landscape and eco-system in the cultural sector and awareness of local/national political initiatives that will impact on - and create opportunities for - Dance City and its partner organisations.

• Understanding of the legal, fiscal, social and political context within which the arts operate, and the contribution they make to health, education, social cohesion and civic pride.

• Understanding of the needs of dance as an art form and a commitment to best practice and to promoting inclusion and equality of opportunity.

• An inclusive leader with experience of overseeing organisational transformation and managing change. 

• A track record in relationship building, working in partnership with a range of funders, agencies and organisations, and of successful fundraising and income generation from a range of sources. 

• A strong advocate and compelling storyteller, able to network, represent the organisation, communicate its vision and inspire confidence among existing and potential peers and stakeholders.

• Strong financial literacy and skills, knowledge of charity governance and relevant financial policies and procedures; experience of senior financial accountability.

• Experience of working effectively with a Board of Directors, understanding of best practice in governance and organisational development.

• A commitment to living in the region, able to travel nationally and internationally, and to work some evenings and weekends where there is reasonable expectation to attend events.

Desirable 

• Experience of running a building with a diverse and impactful arts programme. 

• An extensive network in the cultural sector. 

• Experience of significant national/international cultural partnership projects. 

• Experience of managing significant public investment programmes such as ACE NPO, Creative Scotland RFO or equivalent.

Equity, diversity and inclusion 

At Dance City we believe that voices and perspectives from a range of backgrounds and lived experiences make our understanding of the world and the arts more relevant.

We believe that difference is our strength.

Therefore we actively encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and those that are under-represented in our city and region and in dance leadership. 

As Director of External Affairs across the Bild Group of four small charities (with collective turnover of approx. £3m/yr), you will have a deep commitment to human rights and improving people’s lives.

You will provide strategic direction and leadership to the External Relations function across all four charities in the group, taking overall responsibility for and providing thought-leadership on our strategic approach to policy, influencing, public affairs, stakeholder engagement. 

You will play a lead role in planning, developing, and implementing the communication and external relations and wider engagement strategic plan to grow awareness and profile of Bild, Respond, Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and ACT.

By sharing the impact of our work and programmes in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities, autism and /or mental health conditions, you will support Bild in becoming the sector leading provider of organisational and workforce development (and RRN in becoming the leading charity in reducing restrictive practices globally – and Respond as leaders in trauma informed therapy).

You will champion Bild and RRN’s brand, vision, mission and values acting as an ambassador for the organisation both internally and externally to partners, stakeholders and media.

Key Responsibilities and Duties: 

Strategic Leadership:  

• Develop and implement an integrated communications and external relations strategy across the four charities in the group to raise our profile and to influence change which positively impacts on our beneficiaries, aligning media, campaigning, and public affairs with the charity’s mission and strategic priorities 

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team including Membership and Events Officer, Resources Coordinator and comms team as required 

Comms & Marketing:

• Plan, develop and implement strategic communications and marketing plans to maximise awareness of the Bild Group of charities across the broad spectrum of communications disciplines including media relations, stakeholder management, influencer engagement, ethical (impact focused) marketing, social and new media and the production of new materials and resources 

• Write, develop and produce materials such as infographics, press releases, briefing documents, media statements and online information suitable for stakeholders, including people with lived experience

• Ensure effective marketing across all four charities focusing on impact and including ensuring we attend a range of external events and that all four websites are best practice. 

Influencing & Public Affairs:  

• Working with the CEO, you will drive policy change by developing strategies to influence key decision makers through building relationships with parliamentarians, government departments, and sector stakeholders to ensure the charity's policy agenda is impactful 

• Lead proactive and reactive media engagement, calls and requests for information in order to capitalise on suitable opportunities for maximising the reach and impact of all four charities

• Build our credibility as a thought leader in the sector 

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:  

• Build and sustain strategic alliances with senior civil servants, civil society groups, and community partners to increase the organization's influence and impact 

• Develop effective stakeholder relationship management processes that ensure partnerships of all levels are provided with a rich, immersive engagement experience with the organisation and the work that we do 

• Identify, liaise with and ensure positive relationships with key stakeholders – internal and external including media, government departments, partners, charities, providers, customers, other relevant parties to secure maximum impact for all four charities and their beneficiaries

Reputation, Brand Management & Marketing:  

• Champion the Bild group brands, promoting the mission, values and impact of the organisation and ensuring consistent, engaging narratives and high-quality storytelling across all external channels

• Shaping the charity's profile and protecting its reputation through media relations, digital engagement, and consistent key messaging and building our credibility as thought leaders in sector. 

Membership, Events & Communities:  

• By ensuring appropriate, effective and engaging communications to all relevant audiences and stakeholders, your role will support the growth and development of our membership, Communities of Practice and the event programme (including webinars and conferences).

• Effectively plan, manage and lead a range of events for the Bild group of charities and associated marketing and communications

• Develop framework for Communities of Practice and strategy for engagement and growth 

• Supporting Bild and RRN spokespeople with PR and media outreach

• Keep abreast of communications and engagement activity within the sector and demonstrate an awareness of the impact these may have on existing and future communications activity

General Responsibilities 

• Contribute to evaluation and assessment of results against KPIs and tracking activity

• Allocate, manage and evaluate budget spend

• Identify resource requirements for activity across Bild group

• Develop and maintain systems, databases and procedures to support Bild group communication activities

• Plan, monitor, appraise and report progress of activity regularly with an innate understanding of how this supports activity across the Bild group

• Plan, manage and oversee budgetary spend related to outsourcing specialist activities such as video editing and design

• Ensure communications and marketing work complies with data protection and other legal, professional and agency requirements, standards and policies

• Support the senior leadership team on any activity as required. 

Personal Development  

• Be part of a culture of quality in all areas of communications, PR and marketing

• Participate and contribute to individual performance appraisal and supervision sessions

• Keep abreast of relevant initiatives and developments within the adult health and social care, education & disability sector and the wider communications / engagement profession

• Undertake relevant training, as necessary including accessing new systems and software as required to support the role.

Organisational Responsibilities: 

• Access and work within Bild’s policies and procedures.  

• Attend internal cycle of team meetings relevant to this role.  

• Engage with line management, supervision (where appropriate) and appraisal process.  

• Comply with data protection regulations, ensuring that information on clients, employees, volunteers and other stakeholders remains confidential.  

• Take responsibility for personal learning and development with support from line manager.  

• Work in a manner that facilitates equal opportunities and inclusion for all.  

• Remain professional and respectful at all times, promoting positive relations with all those we encounter in our work.  

• Maintain health and safety and risk awareness for self and others across the organisation.  

• Undertake any other duties that Bild may require within the remit of this role.  

This job description does not form part of the contract of employment. It is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review with the postholder at their annual appraisal.  

Person Specification  

Job Title 

Director of External Relations 

• Exceptional copy writing and verbal communication skills

• Good presenting, negotiating and influencing skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build mutually beneficial relationships

• The ability to work effectively within a small team

• Ability to work under pressure, and plan, manage, and adapt own workload

• A flexible, proactive and problem-solving approach to work

• A motivated attitude and ability to work on own initiative 

• A commitment to human rights and modelling accessibility and inclusion throughout activity

• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as demanded by the post

• Fit to undertake the duties of the post. 

Experience/Skills/Competencies 

Essential 

• Significant experience working in communications, policy and PR with demonstrable success

• PR and media management experience, including both online and traditional PR

• Experience of managing and implementing social media plans, including post development, scheduling, evaluation and monitoring feedback

• Experience of overseeing the design and production of print and electronic publications, including website management and development

• Experience of managing CRM systems and ensuring effective data capture and utilising data to inform decision making

• Ability to analyse data and shape results into reports that inform decision making

• Ability to build effective relationships and networks and establish credibility for Bild, RRN, Respond and Bild ACT 

• Ability to work collaboratively and develop positive relationships with colleagues, members and wider stakeholders

• Demonstrated digital comms / social media skills and understanding of emerging digital marketing tools and platforms

• Ability to use a variety of IT packages/databases including CRM systems.

• Experience managing budgets and associated reporting

• Ability to work remotely and regularly travel to in person events

• Time management skills and ability to prioritise workload under pressure as part of a small but vibrant team

• Strong awareness and interest in news/current affairs/politics and the broader third sector, social care and education sector. 

Desirable 

• Experience working in the not-for-profit sector, preferably in another disability and/or membership charity

• Strong understanding of education, health, social care, disability and not for profit environment

• Strong media contacts within relevant trade sector publications

• Ability to use externally managed media databases (such as Agility etc.)

• Experience with conferences, webinars and hybrid events. 

• Experience supporting and manging a remote team

Education and Qualifications: 

Other Requirements: 

• Commitment to anti-discriminatory practice and equal opportunities and able to apply awareness of diversity issues to all areas of work.  

• Regular travel to attend meetings and events. 

• Occasional evening meetings.  

Legal requirements: 

• Enhanced DBS check.