Director of fundraising and external affairs jobs

Location:  Hybrid working - Part London office-based (E14) and part home working. The post holder will work a minimum of one day a week in the office. 

Salary: £46,750 per annum 

Hours: 35 hours per week 

Closing date: Tuesday 31 March 2026 at 10.00am 

Interview date: Monday 13 April in person with a possible second stage in person on Friday 17 April. 

This is a permanent role. 

Who we are looking for 

Breakthrough T1D is the UK’s leading type 1 diabetes charity, dedicated to funding research, advocating for change, and supporting the T1D community. A year into our exciting rebrand from JDRF to Breakthrough T1D, we’re looking for a Senior Corporate Partnerships Manager to help us build on this momentum.

Do you have a passion for building and driving mutually beneficial partnerships that can help drive forward breakthroughs in type 1 diabetes? The Senior Corporate Partnerships Manager role presents an opportunity to play a critical role in income and impact for our work here at Breakthrough T1D.You will oversee strategic partnerships with key industry partners who share our passion for a world without T1D.We’re looking for a confident relationship builder with experience and a touch of creative flair to build on our highly valued strong and long-established partnerships.We want to take these partnerships to another level in the years ahead and build further partnerships to accelerate progress for our mission.This role is a key member of the Fundraising & Engagement division and engages with senior colleagues across the organisation, within our international Breakthrough T1D community and also key partners.It’s an exciting time at Breakthrough T1D with a new and ambitious strategy and if you’d like to help make the next chapter a reality, we would love to hear from you. 

Experience required 

You’ll have previous experience of: 

• Extensive experience of either working in corporate fundraising, preferably in a new business environment, or working in a commercial marketing/sales position in a client facing role, preferably with knowledge of the medtech and pharmaceutical industries. 

• Experience of researching, prioritising and developing new strategic business partnership opportunities.

• Experience of achieving and exceeding new business income targets including developing individual corporate partnerships to the value of £100k+. 

About Breakthrough T1D 

Breakthrough T1D is the world’s leading charitable research funder into type 1 diabetes, improving lives until we find the cure. We are dedicated to our 400,000 strong type 1 community in the UK and work closely with our international affiliates across the world, including the US, Canada and Australia. 

You will find a vibrant atmosphere and spirited team at Breakthrough T1D, always striving to make a difference to people living with type 1. 

Employee benefits 

As an employer we offer: 

• Hybrid working arrangements 

• Flexible working and will consider compressed hours 

• Generous annual leave entitlement – 25 days per year plus bank holidays for full-time staff with leave increasing after three and five years’ service 

• Health cash plan that allows you to claim for some treatments such as dental, optical and physiotherapy treatment 

• Season ticket and cycle loan 

• Pension scheme 

• Family-friendly policies – maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave at enhanced rates 

• Personalised training to suit your career aspirations and professional development 

Breakthrough T1D is an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation or age. 

The University of Oxford is searching for a Development Executive (Fundraising) that will raise vital philanthropic support for priority areas of research in the Medical Sciences Division.

• Location: Oxford – hybrid working may be an option
• Salary: Grade 7: £39,424 - £47,779 per annum with possible extension to £51,983 – plus an Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).
• Contract: Full Time/Part Time (0.8 FTE minimum), Permanent

Why Medical Sciences?

Oxford is one of the world’s leading biomedical universities recognised for its outstanding quality and depth across the medical research spectrum - from genes to molecules, to big data and populations. With the honour of 12 Nobel Laureates over its long and distinguished history, the Division is consistently at the forefront of innovative and lifesaving science.

The extraordinary depth and breadth of medical skills at Oxford is devoted to identifying the causes of disease, improving diagnosis and developing effective treatments and prevention. The Division is particularly interested in the “big” diseases where millions of lives can be saved – cancer, and infectious diseases such as malaria and pandemic preparedness. It also has world-leading research programmes in cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders such as arthritis and osteoporosis and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

What this role entails?

The Medical Sciences Divisional development team works collaboratively with colleagues across the Division and across the Development and Alumni Engagement team at the University of Oxford.

This is a key role within the team and the post holder will have the opportunity to work with donors and academics. Development at Oxford is well established and this role has the scope to work across a number of important and high-profile projects related to the medical sciences.

The post holder will manage a portfolio of more than 100 major gifts prospects. They will be responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of potential donors able to support projects in the Medical Sciences Division at Oxford, typically in the range of £100,000-£500,000 over time, alongside to supporting the fundraising activity of the Head of Development – Medical Sciences.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Proven fundraising experience in a complex organisation and direct involvement in securing major gifts at the £50,000 level and above
• Ability to identify new donor prospects and engage with potential donors to successfully acquire new gifts
• Ability to think both strategically and tactically about the relations between potential donors and fund-raising goals
• Ability to establish credibility, confidence and robust relationships with existing and prospective donors, and key stakeholders
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• An interest in the medical sciences
• An interest in higher education and ideally an understanding of the University of Oxford, and its goals in teaching and research

If you have experience in major gift fundraising, have excellent inter-personal skills, and are passionate about playing a role in enabling life-changing research then we would love to hear from you.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
• Membership to CASE
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
• Training and development opportunities
• A comprehensive range of childcare services

Application Process

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 18 March 2026.

Interviews will take place on 26/27 March 2026, and will be held in person.

Development and Alumni Engagement is committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills and experiences. We encourage applicants from all sectors of the community and are especially keen to encourage candidates from under-represented groups to apply.

Location: London (Hybrid working - a minimum of three days a week in our South London Centre)

1st stage interviews: 8th and 9th April (over MS Teams)

2nd stage interviews: 16th April (face-to-face in London)

We’re looking for an inspiring and strategic leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as Director of Government Partnerships. This is a pivotal role at the heart of our mission and strategy, leading a high-performing team of fundraisers and policy specialists to grow income to £14m+ annually in public sector income, and ensure the voices of young people shape and influence national policy and investment decisions.

Sitting within Fundraising & Marketing, you’ll drive our influencing strategy across the UK Government, positioning The King’s Trust as a trusted partner in reducing inequalities and delivering life-changing programmes for young people. You’ll represent the Trust at senior levels, develop new income streams, and collaborate closely with teams across the organisation to turn strategy into impact.

If you’re an exceptional communicator with a deep understanding of government funding and a commercial mindset, proven leadership experience, and a passion for driving change at scale, we’d love to hear from you. This is a unique opportunity to shape the national landscape for young people and lead one of our most significant income and influencing portfolios.

What happens next?  

Please submit a CV, and a Cover Letter that includes your experience, transferable skills and motivation to work for The King's Trust! The Team will be in touch about the next steps shortly after the closing date. 

Why do we need a Director of Government Partnerships? 

Last year, we helped more than 40,000 Young People, with three in four young people on our programmes moving into a positive outcome in work, education or training. The young people we help face a range of challenges, such as unemployment, mental health issues or some who have been in trouble with the law. We believe all young people should have the chance to succeed, and that young people are the key to a positive and prosperous future for all of us. We want to continue having a positive impact on young people’s lives, and we couldn’t do this without the important work of the Director of Government Partnerships! 

Perks for working at The Trust! 

• Great holiday package! 30 days annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays. Office closure on the days between Christmas and New Year 
• Flexible working! Where operationally possible, our roles require a combination of office days and working from home (please speak to the hiring manager about this particular role)
• You can volunteer for and/or attend events – The King's Trust Awards, Pride, active events, etc. 
• In-house learning platform! Develop your skills for your career and your role 
• Benefits platform! Everything from health and financial well-being support to discounts on your favourite restaurants, shops and cinemas. 
• Personal development opportunities through our Networks – KT CAN (Cultural Awareness Network), KT GEN (Gender Equality Network), KT DAWN (Disability & Wellbeing Network), and PULSE (LGBTQIA+ Network). 
• Fantastic Family leave! Receive 13 weeks of full pay and 13 weeks of half pay for maternity and adoption leave. Receive 8 weeks of full pay for paternity leave. 
• Interest-free season ticket loans 
• The Trust will contribute 5% of your salary to the Trust Pension Scheme 
• Generous life assurance cover (4 x annual salary) 

We are seeking an exceptional leader who can act as a credible spokesperson and ambassador for the Catholic Union, building trusted relationships across the Church, parliament and wider society and helping to grow the Catholic Union’s influence and engagement in the years ahead.

Founded in 1870, the Catholic Union of Great Britain brings Catholic laity and Catholic social teaching to the public square across England, Wales and Scotland. Working in partnership with dioceses, parishes, MPs, peers and Catholic organisations, our vision is of a society in which Catholic laity are informed, equipped and encouraged to engage in public life.

Our work is shaped by three key themes: engagement, education and encouragement. Through these we foster informed participation in public debate, help Catholics and the wider public understand contemporary social and political issues through a Catholic lens, and inspire greater confidence for Catholics to contribute to civic and community life.

In recent years the Catholic Union has developed from being largely volunteer-led into a more professional and strategically focused organisation, strengthening relationships across the Church and wider society. Our Weekly Briefing, now read by around 6,500 people each week, has become a key channel for parliamentary reporting, Catholic news and reflection.

As Director, you will lead the Catholic Union at an exciting moment in its development. You will represent the Catholic Union publicly, strengthening relationships with bishops, diocesan leaders, parliamentarians and Catholic organisations. You will act as a trusted ambassador for the Union, grow our channels of influence and engagement, and work with Trustees, Council and a small experienced team to support the organisation’s continued development.

If you are inspired by the opportunity to serve as a public voice for a respected Catholic organisation and help foster thoughtful dialogue and engagement in public life, we would love to hear from you.

For more information, please see the job pack attached. Closing date 10th April.

The UK Health Alliance on Climate Change (UKHACC) is a registered charity that brings together the UK’s leading health organisations, representing more than one million health professionals, to advocate for responses to climate change that protect and promote health. Through coordinated, collective action, the Alliance communicates the relationship between health and climate change to government, the public and other health professionals.

We are seeking a dynamic, motivated, and professional Director with excellent policy, project management, and interpersonal skills, experience in strategic communications and change.  The right candidate ideally also has experience in advocacy, and a track record of building consensus and leading campaigns.  .

The Director will be responsible for the Alliance’s overall strategy, oversight of the communications, policy and public affairs programmes, projects, and engagement with Alliance members and key external stakeholders. They will work closely with the Chair and trustees and develop good working relationships with senior leaders and public affairs and communications teams from the membership organisations that make up the Alliance. As the sole employee, the Director needs the professional capacity to coordinate strategic and operational delivery across all areas of the charity and ability to manage multiple stakeholder relationships. They will develop and lead a strategic focus to increase income generation and build a small team of staff to enable the organisation to continue to grow.

Our client, a well-known anti-poverty charity is looking to recruit a Director of Policy & Engagement on a maternity contract of up to 12 months. This great charity provides front-line advice, advocacy and campaigning and policy work on behalf of people in London beneath pension age, who are experiencing issues around benefit payments, disability and housing or who are at risk of homelessness. The services they provide have become even more essential during the current cost of living crisis.

The role:
As Director of Policy & Engagement, you will lead the organisation’s policy, public affairs, and campaigns function, shaping and delivering local and national influencing to drive change on social security and housing issues. You will ensure the voices of people with lived experience are central to all of the organisation’s work, embedding meaningful participation across the organisation, in governance, services, policy and campaigns.

You will also oversee strategic external communications to support the organisation’s influencing, brand and fundraising objectives and will direct all fundraising for your department including managing funder relationships, identifying opportunities and leading on bid writing and reporting.
 
This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for influencing policy and practice locally and nationally and representing the charity as a spokesperson in the media, with government ministers, MPs, and other senior stakeholders. 
 
You will manage a small multidisciplinary team of four, ensuring integrated effective delivery across the organisation. 
 
The role will cover strategic leadership, policy, public affairs & campaigns, stakeholder & media engagement, external communications, embedding participation, fundraising leadership, team leadership and cross-organisational Integration.

The person:
The successful candidate will be a strategic, politically astute leader with experience of leading policy, public affairs and campaigns at a senior level. They will have experience of integrating research campaigns, participation, external communications and fundraising to deliver impact locally and nationally. They will have excellent media stakeholder and political engagement skills, with experience of acting as a spokesperson for an organisation. This person will value and embed lived experience in all aspects of their work and will have a strong understanding of social security and housing policy. 

This person will also have substantial experience of leading on research for social policy influencing purposes in addition to having developed and shaped policy  for an organisation in a charity which works towards combatting poverty and other social justice issues. Having managed political and media engagement and external influencing activities in the past, this person will be an effective relationship manager both internally and externally, in addition to having provided knowledge based leadership to small teams in the charity sector. In addition to being a highly effective project manager, this person will be a very strong communicator both verbally and in writing, and will be fully committed to the aims and objectives of this anti-poverty charity.
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This organisation is an equal opportunity employer. People with lived experience of poverty, from global majority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ individuals and disabled people are strongly encouraged to apply. We welcome evidence of experience from both work and non-work settings such as volunteering and personal life. 
 

The BRIT School is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Communications to lead an evolving communications strategy that ensures the School remains the first choice for young, diverse artists.

This senior role has strategic responsibility for marketing, digital and social media, PR, alumni engagement, and brand management. You will be working directly with Principal Stuart Worden and be his voice in press releases, communications with industry, fundraising and lobbying environments. Working closely with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), Development Team, Trustees, and industry partners, the postholder will play a pivotal role in driving student recruitment, strengthening industry relationships, supporting fundraising ambitions, and enhancing the School’s national and international profile.

You are an experienced strategic marketing and communications leader with a passion for arts and education at senior level, you know how to build powerful brands, lead talented teams, and deliver campaigns that inspire, engage and drive real impact. Collaborative, adaptable and values-led, you bring strong digital, PR and storytelling skills, commercial awareness, and a genuine commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion—thriving in a creative, fast-moving environment.

This is an exceptional opportunity at one of the world's most prestigious universities at a time of extraordinary ambition and philanthropic momentum. 

Associate Director of Development – Principal Gifts
Employer: University of Oxford
Salary: £65,336 - £82,255 with scope to go beyond for a leading professional with outstanding experience and track record
Location: Oxford (Hybrid)

Here at the University of Oxford, we are recruiting three Associate Directors of Development – Principal Gifts to join our incredible team. These are new positions, part of an expansion of our friendly, collaborative and successful Principal Gifts team.

As Associate Director of Development – Principal Gifts, you will operate at the highest levels of the University to secure transformational gifts at the eight-figure-plus level, advancing Oxford’s mission and global impact.  Your work will help ensure that Oxford continues to attract the brightest minds, pursue world-leading research, and address the most urgent challenges facing humanity.

You will work closely with the Vice-Chancellor, Chief Development and Alumni Engagement Officer, Director of Development – Principal Gifts, and other senior leaders to align principal gift opportunities with institutional priorities and articulate a compelling case for support to some of the world’s most significant philanthropists.

Your impact will be enduring – enabling breakthrough discoveries, expanding opportunity for students, and strengthening Oxford’s position as a global leader in education and research.  The Associate Director of Development role offers the chance not only to secure transformational gifts, but also to shape the future of Oxford’s philanthropic culture and leave a legacy at an institution that has been changing the world for over nine centuries.

This is a chance to join a dedicated, professional and ambitious team at a time when Oxford’s fundraising is at unprecedented levels. With strong support from the Vice-Chancellor, a proven track record of principal gift success, and an unparalleled global reputation, you will have every opportunity to make your mark, both at Oxford and in your career.

You will be passionate about what we do here, not phased by complexity and ambiguity, and comfortable orchestrating a myriad of stakeholders.  We hope to hear from you!

The University of Oxford is partnering with Erin Hall-Westfall and Joanna Logan of Constellate Global Talent on this search.

Closing date: midnight on Monday, 6 April 2026.

Interested?

Please familiarise yourself with the attached Candidate Pack.
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter.

Diversity and Inclusivity

The University of Oxford is committed to equal opportunity, and to being a place where everyone belongs and is supported to succeed. We recognise how the diversity of our community enriches our ability to deliver on our academic mission.

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education. No applicant or members of staff shall be unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

No agencies please

Head of Policy and Public Affairs

Bring your energy, creativity and expertise - and help us impact young people positively.

Location: Sherborne House, London (hybrid)

Salary: £52,535 per annum

Closing Date: 29 March, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

Step into a role where your policy expertise drives real change. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you’ll lead an ambitious strategy to influence national decision‑makers, shape legislation and ensure the voices of people affected by homelessness are impossible to ignore. You’ll turn insight into impact, championing our values while strengthening our political presence and public profile

You’ll build powerful relationships across Westminster, Whitehall and the wider sector, producing sharp briefings, commissioning research and delivering high‑profile events that elevate Depaul’s influence. Confident in the media and skilled at simplifying complex issues, you’ll work across teams to anticipate policy change, spark innovation and help drive forward our mission to end homelessness. If you’re driven, strategic and ready to make national change happen, this is your platform.

Key deliverables:

• Develop organisational policy positions on key strategic issues for Depaul UK, focusing on policy areas that matter for our client group including homelessness, housing, welfare, health and care leavers.

• Working with the Director of Development and External Affairs to deliver a multi-year policy and public affairs strategy, you will own its delivery, having demonstrable impact on policy through influencing legislation, as well as securing funding and commitments from the government .

• Work with the Executive Director of Fundraising and Communications and their team to improve Depaul’s public profile by giving us a louder political voice.

• Work with the Executive Director of Operations and their team to ensure Depaul is well positioned to respond to changes in policy and regulation.

• Work in partnership with Depaul UK’s Head of Data and Insights on research projects designed to influence policy.

• Monitor, analyse and report on policy developments which may impact on the work of Depaul UK.

• Provide high quality written and verbal briefings, reports and submissions to consultations.

• Work with senior colleagues to develop positive relationships for Depaul UK with ministers, senior officials, elected Mayors, Parliamentarians and with other policy influencers including our peers in the homeless sector.

• Ensure that the voices and experiences of clients are heard and understood to improve and change services delivered by Depaul, commissioners and policy makers.

• Give interviews to the media.

• Organise and coordinate events and meetings.

• Strengthen Depaul’s links with other voluntary sector organisations in the homelessness, youth and faith sectors.

• Contribute to Depaul International’s global influencing work.

What we are looking for from you (Person Specification)

When completing your application form please address all the areas below. Try to provide clear examples in your supporting statement that clarify how and when you gained the experience or knowledge as well as your level of capability.

To carry out this role we are looking for the following from you in terms of qualifications, experience, skills and competencies:

Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of the homelessness sector and policy context is desirable but not essential, it is essential that you have developed strong, specialist knowledge of a UK policy area or areas.

Experience and skills

• Having had demonstrable impact on government policy.

• Developing and maintaining positive relationships with Parliamentarians and officials

• Organising or helping to organise events, it is desirable but not essential that you have organised events in Parliament

• Leading projects with colleagues from different internal or external teams

• Delivering high quality verbal and written policy briefings and presentations to senior stakeholders

• Working with colleagues to secure media coverage

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work on own initiative and with low levels of supervision

• Ability to prioritise key tasks and manage conflicting priorities

• Ability to deliver to deadlines, sometimes at short notice

• Desirable - drafting and delivering policy and/or public affairs plans/strategies

• Desirable - representing organisations in the media and at events

You will need to be able to travel throughout the UK and on occasions work out of hours.

You believe in people — their strengths, their rights and their potential. You bring empathy, energy and a solution‑focused mindset to your work. You communicate clearly, stay organised and adapt well in a fast‑moving environment. You’re committed to inclusion, fairness and continuous learning, and you turn values into meaningful action, whatever your role.

What You’ll Receive

• Tailored training and development
• Flexible working options where suitable
• 26 days annual leave, rising with service
• Family‑friendly leave policies
• Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%
• Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access
• Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more
• Cash health plan for you and your family
• Death‑in‑service benefit
• Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

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

Project Accountant ​

​Are you ready to take on a new challenge with a leading charity making a real difference in brain tumour research?

​This is a fantastic time to be joining our ambitious and growing charity and we are keen to share this with likeminded and talented individuals. Brain Tumour Research is seeking a qualified and experienced accountant who is able to join our team on a Fixed Term contract (2-4 months) to support our team and undertake some important projects.

​​As the Project Accountant you will play a crucial role in helping the charity meet its strategic plans and objectives. You will be reconciling transactions between our internal records and those of our external partners, developing our cashflow model for our granting programme, housekeeping on our VAT records and more.

• Do you want to make a difference in one of the most innovative and exciting medical research fundraising charities in the UK?
• Do you have outstanding attention to detail and experience working with Access Financials and/or Access CRM?
• Are you a qualified and experienced accountant?​
• Are you able to start as soon as possible?

​Have you answered yes to these questions?

Do you want the chance to make a real difference? 

​If you are excited to learn more about this position, please take a read through our recruitment pack. 

If you have the skills and ambition that we are looking for we welcome your application. We are really looking forward to welcoming a new member to our team!

​

We are asking for a CV as the first step but applicants may be asked to provide a targeted covering letter as part of the selection process.  Interviews will be conducted during the application window as appropriate, and will consist of a first interview via MS Teams, progressing, if successful to a face to face second interview, held at our offices in Milton Keynes.

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​We reserve the right to close the application window early and advise candidates to apply in good time to avoid disappointment.

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Closing Date: 29th March 2026

​

We are looking for people who share our passion for finding a cure for brain tumours and who have the skills and experience to make a difference. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, cultures, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and ages. We believe that diversity enriches our organisation and helps us achieve our mission. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can be themselves and contribute to our vision.

Lead an organisation that transforms lives through literacy
Executive Director - Adult Literacy Trust
Time Commitment: 3-4 days per week
Location: Primarily home based, with regular meetings across London
Salary: £75,000 FTE (pro rata), plus pension and holiday entitlement

About Adult Literacy Trust
The Adult Literacy Trust (ALT) believes that reading is a right, not a privilege. Today, more than 8 million adults in the UK struggle with functional literacy, limiting their access to education, employment, independence and opportunity. ALT exists to change that.

Founded in 2021, ALT provides personalised, one to one reading support for disadvantaged adults across some of London's most deprived communities. Volunteer Reading Coaches help learners build confidence, unlock opportunities, and rewrite the narrative of their lives. Retention among learners and volunteers is exceptionally high, and demand for the programme continues to grow.

Why This Role Matters
As Executive Director, you will shape a charity with the potential to change many lives.

You will:
- Drive strategic growth by leading an exciting expansion that will see ALT scale its programme across London and beyond.
- Champion the cause nationally, raising ALT's profile and influencing the policy landscape around adult literacy.
- Strengthen organisational foundations to ensure robust governance, financial sustainability, and operational excellence.
- Build powerful partnerships with funders, adult learning providers, policymakers, and community organisations.
- Lead and empower a small, talented team - cultivating a culture of collaboration, commitment and learner centred impact.
- Amplify learner and volunteer voices by ensuring that those directly affected help shape our work.

What Makes This Opportunity Inspiring
- Improving literacy delivers life changing outcomes: employment, wellbeing, independence, confidence and community connection. Every adult who learns to read improves their own life chances and that of their family.
- ALT has a proven model, a solid funding base, excellent evaluation, a committed volunteer base, and a highly engaged Board (including trustees with lived experience).
- ALT is poised to expand rapidly and influence systemic change within the adult learning ecosystem.
- This role combines strategic leadership with hands on delivery. Perfect for someone who thrives in mission driven, entrepreneurial environments.

Ideal Candidate Profile
Skills and Experience
- Strategic leader with experience spanning operations, external affairs, and organisational growth.
- Proven fundraising track record, especially securing multi year grants; experience with major donors beneficial.
- Skilled relationship builder able to represent an organisation with credibility and warmth.
- Experience of financial management, governance, and compliance within a charity setting.
- Understanding of adult learning, literacy or education is desirable, but not essential.

Personal Attributes
- Visionary and adaptable, with strong strategic insight.
- Empathetic, collaborative and grounded in purpose.
- Excellent communicator, comfortable representing ALT publicly.
- Practical, hands on leader with a positive, solutions focused mindset.
- Deeply committed to equity, inclusion and community empowerment.

Recruitment Timeline
To ensure equitable access to information and uphold ALT's commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the charity will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the Chair. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Wednesday 4th March 2026 and we will send you a link.

Application Deadline: 5pm Wednesday 18th March 2026
First Interviews: w/c 6th April 2026
Final Interviews: w/c 13th April 2026

How to Apply
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to ALT on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People and request a candidate pack in the first instance.

For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People

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

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

Job Title: Policy and Influencing Lead

Salary: £42,500 per annum pro rata, plus 15% ILW if applicable

Hours: Part time, up to 22.5 hours per week, open to discussing working patterns

Location: Birmingham or London

Contract Type: Fixed term contract for 12 months, with plans to review

Reports to: Director of Fundraising and External Affairs

THE CHARITY

Suicide is the leading cause of death of men under 35 and three quarters of those who die by suicide are men. James’ Place exists to save the lives of men in suicidal crisis through delivering clinical services. We are a charity currently offering free, life-saving therapy to suicidal men at our centres in Liverpool, London and Newcastle.

James’ Place was set up by Clare Milford Haven and Nick Wentworth-Stanley in 2008 after their twenty-one-year-old son, James, died by suicide ten days after a minor operation. James had no history of mental illness or depression and had sought urgent help for anxiety and suicidal thoughts but didn’t find it.   

James' Place was set up to make the experience of finding help as easy as possible. We offer men who are experiencing a suicidal crisis a brief, intensive, therapeutic intervention in a safe environment. Men who walk through the door at James’ Place will be in a space where they feel valued and respected.  We provide a calm and peaceful environment both inside the centres and in our outside spaces, accessible to men who visit us as well as their friends and families. We have so far treated over 4,300 men who might otherwise have been unable to access the support they desperately need.

In early 2026 we will be opening our fourth centre in Birmingham, which will support suicidal men living in the West Midlands.

THE OPPORTUNITY

This is a new role in an expanding and dynamic organisation. It responds to our growing ambition to share what we have learned about suicide prevention and delivering services to men who are affected by inequalities.

We understand that for more men to be saved, we need others to take action too. And we need to make this case for change as compelling and impactful as possible to influence commissioners, NHS providers, or policy makers to save more men’s lives.

This role will involve leading the influencing strategy, building evidence-based policy positions, and executing powerful messaging to effectively demonstrate the impact of crisis intervention and the importance of extending this provision to more men across the country.

Overarching priorities

· To influence national and local systems leaders on the importance of rapid, equitable, accessible and tailored treatment and support for acutely suicidal men.

· To establish James’ Place as a leading and credible voice in innovative suicide prevention practice, reducing inequalities in access and in supporting men who other services aren’t reaching.

· To strengthen our evidence base and contribute insight and data to networks and partners who can grow its impact (such as organisations with larger influencing teams, media organisations, policy makers and think tanks).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategy

· Identify key actors and establish, lead and execute an influencing plan for the next 12 – 24 months, in line with the above priorities, emerging insight and changing contexts.

· Lead effective relationship and network building and management across charity, health and policy sectors.

· Adopt a holistic perspective with communications and fundraising colleagues, that is deeply informed by clinical practice and aligned with strategies for growth.

· Explore future partnerships to strengthen evidence base, impact and reach, with academics, think tanks, funders and policy makers

· Ensure James’ Place responds to emerging policy and influencing opportunities (such as men’s health, inequalities work, neighbourhoods, integrated health organisations, strategic commissioning and so on)
Delivery

· Represent James’ Place on external groups at parliamentary events and sector forums as appropriate, ensuring the charity’s position and the voices of men we treat are clearly and respectfully communicated.

· Monitor and respond to legislative and regulatory changes and lead consultation responses.

· Research and produce compelling policy briefings, consultation responses and evidence-based reports

· Champion accurate data collection, evaluation and insight across James’ Place, demonstrating how crucial this is for policy and influencing work externally.

· Fully brief and support the CEO and other senior leaders’ attendance at events, meetings and media work.

· Engage with researchers, evaluators and campaigners on what James’ Place knows and does so that they can represent and champion James’ Place effectively.

· Support senior colleagues to engage with the Board on matters of policy and influence.

· Undertake any other duties as required in pursuit of organisational success.

Charity-wide

· Work closely with services, clinical, fundraising and communication colleagues to deliver our strategy and business plans to meet our charitable objectives.

· Play a role across the whole organisation, offering support and demonstrating leadership across the charity, helping colleagues to grow and develop.

· Recognise the value of review and evaluation and contribute to the on-going development of James’ Place as a respected, effective and sustainable charity.

· Work with the team to build our understanding of men in suicidal crisis and how suicidal behaviour develops.

· Promote and demonstrate the highest level of safeguarding best practice.

· Deputise for senior colleagues and represent the organisation externally as and when required.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential

· Extensive experience in policy and influencing work at a senior level on a social or health issue, including mental or physical health, equity, or social justice.

· A strong track record of building and maintaining external relationships across sectors: government, NHS, public services, charities, academia or think tanks; healthcare experience is highly desirable

· Substantial experience of preparing and submitting consultation documents, position statements and advocacy materials.

· Strong communication skills, in writing and in person.

· Experience of working with quantitative and qualitative research and researchers, work with data and insight to make credible and evidence-based arguments.

· Practical, resilient, unflappable; an innovator, open to exploring new ways of working.

· Experience of working with people with lived experience of sensitive and personal issues.

Desirable 

· Experience of public speaking.

· Experience of working with NHS commissioners or mental health services.

· Working with volunteers and people with lived experience of suicidality or inequality.

WE OFFER

· A 7% employer contributory pension scheme.

· Family friendly policies.

· Death in service insurance scheme.

· 25 days plus bank holidays leave entitlement (FTE), including enhanced holiday allowance with incremental rises after qualifying period.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please follow the instructions on the attached document. 

Closing date: Monday 16 March 2026, 5pm

James’ Place is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community. Our aim is that no job applicant, temporary worker or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender and transgender status, race and ethnicity, religion and belief (including no belief), marriage or civil partnership status or sexual orientation.

If you have a disability or health conditions which means you'd benefit from any adjustments to the interview process to help you perform at your best, please do let us know in advance.

Any job offers made are subject to the receipt of two relevant satisfactory employment references. We expect this to include one from your most recent or current employer. Any job offers made are also subject to a satisfactory DBS check and a Right to Work in the UK check.

Job Description 

Lead research and policy projects 

You will lead our Research and Policy team and manage our research experts. This will include leading on existing and new projects from concept design to funder reporting, as well as conducting research in different areas of economic and social policy like social security, pensions, VAWG, labour market, social care, etc.

Maintain and forge external partnerships 

You will maintain, identify and forge new collaborations with academics, feminist organisations and economics think tanks. 

Represent WBG at external events and to the media 

You will represent WBG in meetings with key stakeholders and speak at external events. You will also be a spokesperson for the press, radio and broadcast TV to promote WBG’s research and analysis. 

Contribute to our advocacy strategy 

You will work closely with our Communications and Public Affairs team to ensure our research outputs are relevant to our advocacy goals and that they are accessible to a wide range of audiences, including policymakers, politicians, journalists, and feminist campaigning organisations. 

Supervise our research and policy support programme 

In collaboration with our Head of Training and Capacity Building you will expand our programme of research and policy support for grassroots organisations in the UK and internationally. 

Manage a team and support its members 

You will be leading not only projects but also people. You will have experience of supporting, motivating and leading a team of people and supporting them to develop new skills and grow in their careers. This includes staff members and paid interns. 

Hours: 30 hours per week. We operate a shorter working week with 30 hours the equivalent of full time. We are happy to consider a secondment role and/or flexible working arrangements. Some out of hours working will be required for which TOIL will be given. 

Location: Must be resident in the UK with the right to work in the UK. Post is hybrid with requirement to be in the office at least once a week. Office is in Vauxhall, London. 

Duration: 10-month fixed-term contract. 

Line management: Reports to the Director, manages three staff members and any paid interns working in the Research and Policy team. 

Start date: Late May 2026 

Interviews will be held on w/c 13 April 2026. 

Citizens UK

Citizens UK is the UK’s biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems.

Purpose

This role will report to the Executive Director, Finance and Operations, and will be responsible for providing executive assistance to three Executive Team members; the Executive Director, Finance and Operations (EDF&O), the Director of Communications and External Affairs (DCEA) and the Director, London (DL). The main duties include scheduling meetings, handling correspondence and assisting with the management of projects that all Directors are involved in. To be successful in this role, you will be able to initiate, meet deadlines and communicate effectively. Ultimately, you will be identifying and addressing the needs of the Executive Director/Directors, performing management and administrative tasks and building good working relationships to increase the effectiveness of the organisation.

Main Responsibilities

Working as the Executive Assistant & Project Manager to three Executive Team members for Citizens UK, reporting to Executive Director, Finance and Operations, your main responsibilities will include:

Contribute towards CUK’s mission and strategic objectives through Executive Support function

· Manage Executive Director/Directors diaries including booking meetings, scheduling attendees and organising venues, in person and online.

· Manage Executive Director/Directors correspondence including prioritising and responding to emails.

· Schedule Appraisal and Supervision meetings and visits: ensuring Executive Director/Directors time is well used through proper preparation and follow-up with direct reports, other local staff and external stakeholders.

· Process expenses for Executive Director/Directors as well as processing of invoice payments.

· Maintain an electronic filing system, ensuring processes and software are up to date and in working order.

· Provide management and administrative support to assist Executive Director/Directors in their workload.

- Lead coordination of monthly financial budget calls, including scheduling and managing diaries for approximately 17 chapter meetings each month, alongside quarterly budget review sessions.

- Provide live meeting support for all budget calls, including screen sharing, documenting key points, managing attendance, and ensuring smooth delivery of all administrative aspects.

- Serve as Secretariat for the monthly Operations and Organisational Development (OOD) Team Meetings, including drafting agendas, circulating papers, taking accurate and timely minutes, and producing post-meeting action logs.

- Maintain and manage the OOD SharePoint site, ensuring documents, actions and meeting materials are updated, accessible, and appropriately organised.

- Act as the primary administrative point of contact for the OOD team, responding to queries, managing workflows, and ensuring effective communication across the team.

- Work closely with the Director of Organisational Development, providing proactive support in planning, preparing and running the OOD meetings they chair.

- Oversee action tracking and follow-up for all meetings, ensuring progress is monitored, deadlines are met, and information is escalated where appropriate.

- Support wider departments of each of Executive Director/Directors, as well as wider organisational and project administration, as required, to ensure smooth operational functioning during the maternity leave period.

Build and manage projects and achieve work targets effectively

· Co-ordinate projects and ensure follow-up with team members where required.

· Create and manage systems to monitor performance of the Chapters, Projects and staff supervised by Executive Director/Directors: e.g. through reporting mechanisms and supervisions and appraisals.

· Maintain an action log Executive Director/Directors including following up with those responsible to ensure actions are taken. Manage their workflow and to-do list, assisting with prioritisation and the delegation of tasks to staff.

Learning, expertise and inclusion

· Undertake appropriate personal and professional development.

· Provide others with relevant and helpful advice and technical support.

· Proactive in maintaining own wellbeing at work.

Develop and manage internal and external relationships

· Build and maintain good working relationships with staff and stakeholders.

· Schedule meetings as required, setting agendas and circulating any papers.

· Work collaboratively across Citizens UK to ensure that interactions meet the expectations of our network and stakeholders.

· Take minutes at meetings as requested at other meetings where necessary e.g. Executive Team, CUK Leadership Team, staff meetings and external meetings.

· Manage and coordinate work within team and colleagues across CUK.

· Effectively liaise with external stakeholders, suppliers etc.

Communications

· Assist with drafting and producing communications e.g. newsletters, emails and other media, liaising with the Comms Team.

· Attend/dial in and take minutes of meetings.

· Provide team and stakeholders with regular, timely communications.

· Attend meetings and represent CUK effectively to audiences in meetings and at events.

Knowledge Management

· Ensure data is handled and managed in a GDPR compliant manner.

· Maintain an electronic filing system, ensuring processes and software are up to date and in working order.

Managing income and resources

· Ensure careful use and stewardship of CUK’s resources when booking venues, travel and incurring other expenses.

· Create and manage admin systems to track income resources effectively.

Contribute towards the CUK mission & strategic objectives Demonstrates enthusiasm and commitment to the function and the core mission of CUK. Reliably implements and participates in the development of policies, procedures, and values in the delivery of work across the team.

Build and manage

projects and achieve

work targets

effectively Identifies opportunities, initiates and manages projects; incl. planning and organising work effectively. Delivers on functional KPIs and targets. Delivers to time and budget.

Learning, expertise

and Inclusion Keeps up-to-date with functional good practice, incl. within third sector. Tains and coaches others giving relevant advice and technical support., incl. ensuring team have access to training and development opportunities. Displays self-awareness of DEI issues and good practice. Considers the impact on direct reports. Acts as a role model for DEI awareness and implementation. Is alert to and manages the impact of DEI issues for direct reports and stakeholders.

Develop and manage

external

relationships Proactively develops and nurtures new and existing relationships that further CUK goals; manages a diverse range of relationships. Seeks feedback and acts to ensure that stakeholders are having a good experience of working effectively with CUK.

Develop and manage

internal

relationships Manages and coordinates their work within team and with colleagues across CUK. Effectively line managers and develops staff. Encourages a culture of transparency and sharing across CUK.

Communications Provides stakeholders with regular comms; ensuring their needs are met with timely, appealing, communication materials. Represents CUK effectively to audiences in meetings and at events.

Knowledge

Management Responsibility for ensuring team members record and store data accurately and GDPR compliantly.

Generate income

and resources Contributes to plans and proposals to grow sources of income/ manage resources. Negotiates with suppliers/ third parties to reduce cost base. Participates in the development of funding proposals.

Safeguarding, Health Proactively undertakes risk assessment and responsibility for team wellbeing.

& Safety & Wellbeing Proactive in maintaining own wellbeing and supporting direct reports in managing their own wellbeing at work.

Personal Specification

(D) Desirable, (E) Essential

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

· Degree or Diploma in Business Administration or associated subject (D)

EXPERIENCE

· Provision of administrative and diary assistance to Executive level (E)

· Experience of handling a wide range of correspondence (E)

· Project management skills to track and monitor progress across teams (E) (D)

· Taking and writing minutes, developing reports and presentations (E) (D)

KEY SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

· Able to build relationships with a range of people and communicate clearly (E)

· Advanced level Microsoft Office, particularly Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint and Outlook (E)

· Diplomatic approach and discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information. (E)

· Previously developed time management and prioritisation skills. (E)

PERSONAL QUALITIES & VALUES

· Ability to take initiative and work independently (E)

· Self-motivated and adaptable (E)

· A positive enthusiasm for working within third sector and aligned with Citizens UK’s values (E)

About the application process

We work within diverse communities bringing people together. In line with our Inclusion value, we would love to see applications from LGBTQIA+ people, people from racialised communities, people living with disabilities and people of faith, all to better represent the communities we work in. We want our employees to have the working conditions that allows them to fully participate, be able to be their best authentic selves and thrive doing so, and we have employee networks to support staff. Even if you don’t quite meet all the required criteria still consider applying, as we invest in our employees and support them to develop the skills and knowledge required to deliver their role.

For questions and reasonable adjustments regarding your application including information in a different format, or our recruitment process, please email us.