Operations manager jobs

Job Title: Senior Volunteer Manager

Reporting To: Head of Volunteering

Salary Range: £40,00 - £45,000

Contract Type: Permanent

Direct Reports: 7 situated across England.

Location: London, Hybrid with frequent travel to sites across England.

Hours/Days per week: 35 hours per week, 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday.

Requirements: Felix only employs applicants who currently have the

right to work in the UK. We will carry out a DBS check for the successful candidate.  

We are Felix

We bring people together to rescue, repurpose, and share surplus food that would otherwise go to waste, turning an environmental problem into a social opportunity.

Together with 16 other independent charities, 18,000 volunteers, and thousands of partners, we are the UK’s food rescue network, supporting 1.5 million people across the country.

We‘re about fuller plates, fuller communities, and fuller lives.

Purpose of the Job 

We are looking for the Senior Volunteer Managerto play a key role in working as part of a team to grow and improve our volunteer programme. Thousands of individuals volunteer regularly across Felix’s four depots, three food production sites and Felix’s UK’s three regional centres and, with a smaller number in Fundraising and other teams. We aim to improve our volunteer programme, as well as develop new opportunities, and make Felix a great place to volunteer.

The post holder will have five primary focus areas:

• Manage the development of individual volunteering at Felix, initiating and overseeing improvement projects and new opportunities and considering both volunteer experience and operational practicality.

• Line manage and continue to build, develop and support a team of seven. Lead on agreeing team and individual goals and priorities and oversee the team’s work.

• Support the team to develop site strategies to grow and improve our volunteer program and manage issues and opportunities at a local and tactical level.

• Collaborate with members of the operations team and other Felix colleagues to continue to integrate the volunteering team within Felix’s work, champion a ‘one-team’ approach.

• Collaborate with the Head of Volunteering, Volunteer Development Manager (Network) and Group Volunteering Manager on strategy and improvement projects

Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage seven Volunteer Managers, providing leadership and development opportunities and leveraging their expertise.

• Lead and manage team collaboration, development, communication, and resource distribution.

• Ensure that change management principles are utilised successfully to bring the team together post merger.

• Assist Volunteer Managers in integrating into site teams and fostering productive relationships, championing and facilitating a collaborative "one team" approach.

• Support Volunteer Managers in implementing strategies which promote volunteer recruitment, retention, and engagement.

• Oversee the involvement and experience of individuals who volunteer with Felix regularly, aligning their needs, skills and motivations with those of volunteer-involving teams.

• Work with colleagues to plan, set goals, make data-driven decisions, monitor progress, and report on volunteer recruitment and retention.

• Initiate, manage and collaborate on improvement projects and new processes, particularly in Felix’s depots and kitchen.

• Support Volunteer Managers in resolving volunteer issues, escalating to the Head of Volunteering when necessary.

• Lead the implementation of volunteer-related policies and continuous improvement initiatives locally.

• Assist Volunteer Managers in organising local volunteer events.

• Network with external stakeholders to promote the Felix Volunteer Program and integrate best practices.

• Perform additional duties as needed during the absence of volunteer management team members.

• Your normal duties and responsibilities will be set out in your job description. However, the charity may require you to perform other duties from time to time

Person Specification 

You will want to spend time with our volunteers and get to know their experience and perspective. You will be a strong people manager, love working with a wide variety of people and be able to quickly build strong and positive relationships in a volunteer-centric organisation. You have extensive leadership, management and team building experience, like to see the impact of your work, and can implement and lead on new ways of working. You have a passion to be in a charity that is expanding rapidly and thrive in a busy environment. You will have a desire to help reduce food waste and/or fight food poverty.

Essential Criteria 

• Strong individual and team management skills within a fast-paced environment

• Strong change management skills- especially those within a post merger environment.

• Excellent verbal and written communicator at all levels

• Great organisation and Planning skills with the capability to manage multiple tasks and projects.

• Good computer skills including the ability to use Office365

• Ability to effectively collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders

• Capacity to foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment

• Practice in volunteer recruitment, engagement, and retention.

• Capability in organising and facilitating events and activities for volunteers.

• Prior experience in a managerial role, preferably within the nonprofit or volunteer sector

• Experience in networking with external partners and stakeholders

• In-depth knowledge of best practices in volunteer recruitment, engagement, and retention

• Understanding GDPR and good data management practices

Equity Diversity Inclusion & Belonging

At Felix, we are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do. We value the unique contributions of every individual and strive to create a respectful, inclusive environment free from discrimination or prejudice. Our commitment extends to all employees, and volunteers, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of background or characteristics.

Application procedure 

Once you apply you will be directed to our recruitment portal. Please upload your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role and make sure that they are both uploaded before submitting your application. After you have submitted your application, you have 24 hours in which you can access you application and make edits. We will only consider applications with both CV and cover letter submitted.

Recruitment timeline 

We reserve the right to close advertisements early and we might assess candidates and arranging interview as applications come in, so please apply as soon as possible, to avoid missing out on this opportunity.  

Due to the anticipated large number of applicants, if you do not hear from us within four weeks of your application, we regret to inform you that your application has been unsuccessful. Consequently, will not be able to provide feedback.

Rehoming Centre Manager

Beagle Welfare is looking for an experienced, compassionate and highly organised Rehoming Centre Manager to lead the daily operation of our Rehoming Centre, based in Burton-on-Trent.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a visible difference to the lives of beagles, adopters, volunteers and colleagues by creating a centre where excellent welfare, effective rehabilitation and successful rehoming are at the heart of everything we do.

As the lead on site, you will manage and develop staff and volunteers, oversee safe and efficient centre operations, and help ensure every beagle in our care receives the right support to progress towards a happy, secure future. You will also represent Beagle Welfare externally and contribute to the continued development of our rehoming work across the UK.

About the role

You will be responsible for the leadership, performance and smooth running of the Rehoming Centre, including staff and volunteer management, health and safety, site maintenance and the implementation of operational procedures. With rehoming at the centre of your decision-making, you will use data, strong people leadership and sound operational judgement to help improve outcomes for beagles and the people who care for and adopt them.

Key responsibilities

· Lead, motivate and develop a committed team of staff and volunteers, creating a positive, inclusive and high-performing culture.

· Oversee day-to-day centre operations, ensuring high standards of dog welfare, customer service, health and safety, security and compliance.

· Drive rehoming activity by supporting case progression, promoting beagles effectively and helping minimise the time beagles spend in our care.

· Manage resources, reporting and administrative processes accurately and responsibly.

· Build productive relationships with adopters, visitors, animal welfare organisations, and community partners.

· Use data, feedback and quality assurance processes to identify improvements and support consistent application of procedures.

About you

We are looking for a confident manager with experience leading diverse teams, delivering against targets and managing a varied operational workload. You will be comfortable working around dogs, including beagles with different welfare and behavioural needs, and able to balance compassion with practical decision-making. Strong communication, organisation, collaboration and stakeholder management skills are essential, as is experience in supporting continuous improvement.

You will also need a UK manual driving licence and be comfortable driving our van. Experience in a kennel or animal welfare environment would be advantageous, but above all you will share Beagle Welfare’s commitment to improving the lives of beagles and supporting the people who care for them.

Working pattern and location

This role is based at the Rehoming Centre and offers employment that includes employer provided accommodation (3-bedroom cottage) as part of the compensation package.

The centre operates between 08:30 and 17:00 every day of the year, so weekend and bank holiday working will be required on a rota basis.

Why join Beagle Welfare?

You will join an organisation driven by purpose, teamwork and a shared commitment to dog welfare. This is a hands-on leadership role where your decisions, energy and care will directly support better outcomes for beagles, adopters, volunteers and colleagues.

Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter. With a strengthened leadership team and an ambitious vision for the future, we are building on our foundations to deliver a bold and impactful organisational strategy.

We are now seeking an Office & Facilities Manager to join our Training & Prevention team at this pivotal time. This opportunity is available as permanent position.

As a specialist charity supporting survivors of sexual violence across twelve South London boroughs, we provide counselling, group therapy, advocacy, prevention education, and professional training. With an annual income of approximately £4 million, we are growing and strengthening our infrastructure to better serve survivors and communities.

The Office & Facilities Manager will:

• Lead on day-to-day office operations and facilities management
• Line manage the reception/administrative team
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety, GDPR, and organisational policies
• Maintain a safe, welcoming, and efficient environment for staff and survivors

The role is central to ensuring our spaces support the delivery of high-quality, trauma-informed services.

Why Apply?

This is a fantastic development opportunity to:

• Step into a management position
• Expand your experience in facilities, compliance, and operations
• Play a key role in supporting safe and effective service delivery
• Contribute to an organisation making a meaningful difference

Who We’re Looking For

You can demonstrate:

• Experience in office and/or facilities management
• Strong organisational and administrative skills
• Confidence in managing systems, processes, and compliance
• Experience supervising or coordinating staff
• Knowledge of Health & Safety and data protection requirements
• A commitment to RCSL’s feminist ethos and survivor-centred approach

Key Responsibilities

• Manage office systems, processes, and administrative functions
• Oversee building maintenance, contractors, and facilities operations
• Lead on Health & Safety compliance, inspections, and reporting
• Support data protection compliance in line with GDPR
• Coordinate space planning, office upkeep, and service needs
• Line manage reception/admin staff, delegating workload and supporting performance
• Ensure the office environment reflects RCSL’s values and standards

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment 

Rape Crisis South London is committed to safeguarding survivors and service users. The post holder will contribute to maintaining the organisation’s safeguarding standards. 

This includes: 

• Promoting the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk 
• Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns 
• Following organisational safeguarding policies and procedures 
• Supporting a culture where everyone feels safe, respected and supported 

Our safer recruitment processes include: 

• Values-based interviews 
• Verification of identity, qualifications and employment history 
• Reference checks 
• Enhanced DBS checks where required 
• Safeguarding training and supervision 
• Equality, Feminist Commitment and Values. 

Intersectionality and Reasonable Adjustments 

We recognise that experiences of sexual violence are shaped by intersecting factors such as: 

• Race and ethnicity 
• Disability 
• Sexuality and gender identity 
• Socioeconomic background 
• Immigration status 
• Faith and culture 

Our work is grounded in feminist principles, recognising sexual violence as both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We centre survivor voices and prioritise empowerment, inclusivity and intersectionality. 

Applicants are encouraged to let us know if they require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, such as: 

• Alternative interview formats or timings 
• Additional time for written tasks 
• Accessible documentation 
• Support relating to disability, neurodivergence or health needs 
   

Learning and Development 

As a charity undergoing transformation and growth, we welcome colleagues who are committed to continuous learning and professional development.
 
Interview Process 

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview, conducted via MS Teams.
 
Stage one: MS Teams with the Director of Finance & Resources Manager and two other panel members.

The whole process from advertisement to appointment, may take up to 3-4 weeks.
 
Post holder will be required to undertake Enhanced DBS
The role will initially be open for one month (until filled). However, due to the urgent need for support, applications will be reviewed and interviews arranged on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

The interview will explore experience and approach to: 

• Safeguarding 
• Equality, diversity and inclusion 
• Wellbeing and feminist practice 
• Trauma-informed therapeutic work 
• Leadership responsibilities relevant to the role 

This post is open to women only (Schedule 9, Paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010).
We particularly welcome applications from women underrepresented in leadership roles in the VAWG sector. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

GDPR Statement

Rape Crisis South London will process personal information provided during the recruitment process in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. Information submitted as part of your application will be used solely for recruitment, selection, safeguarding, and employment-related checks. For unsuccessful candidates, application data will be retained for up to six months before being securely deleted. By submitting an application, you acknowledge that your personal data will be processed for recruitment purposes. For further information, please contact.
How to apply 
Please submit: 

• Your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role
• Interview date(s): Rolling basis

Thank you for your interest in RCSL. If you have not heard from us within one month of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
We encourage you to follow us on LinkedIn @rapecrisissouthlondon for future opportunities and updates.

AI in Job Applications
We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences 

Working closely with the Investment Operations Manager, you will gain exposure to a broad range of investment processes and stakeholders across the business.

Over time, and depending on performance and interest, there will be opportunities to develop into other areas of the investment team.

The Investment Team is staffed by experienced and well respected individuals and plays a key role in furthering responsible investment activities for the Church of England. We build strong partnerships and use our collective influence to encourage positive change and improve investment and stewardship outcomes and generate long-term value for members of the pension schemes we manage.

This role offers structured development and exposure to a wide range of investment activities.

The post-holder will be expected to work a minimum of one day a week at Church House, Westminster, London.
The role will close for applications on 01 September 2026.

Are you passionate about criminal justice and want the flexibility of homeworking for a small charity where you can make a real difference? Are you experienced in operations and/ or administration? Then we would love to hear from you! 

The Welcome Directory is a multi-faith charity working to empower faith and belief communities to offer safe and lasting welcome to prison leavers. Our national directory is a list of faith/belief communities who are committed to welcoming prison leavers – the directory is used in all prisons across England and Wales. This resource is a lifeline for those leaving prison and seeking to find connection and community where they can belong and practice their faith/belief.

We are currently recruiting for an Operations Officer to lead on administrative support to the charity under the direction of the Project Manager, supporting on engagement with various stakeholders and networks. The goal of the post is to ensure that The Welcome Directory can effectively develop the reach of our work and achieve exponential growth, by maximising administrative efficiency.

Whilst this is a 6-month contract, there is the potential to extend where funding permits.

This will include, but may not be limited to:

Operations

• Engaging with interested faith/ belief communities/ networks, processing registrations and maintaining directory records
• Leading the co-ordination and delivery of the annual Affiliates Scheme
• Supporting the production and logistics of annual resource mail-outs
• Engaging in periodical team email campaigns for intentional growth
• Supporting the annual data refresh and survey, including follow-up, in collaboration with the Monitoring & Evaluation Officer

Events

• Provide administrative support in preparation for the online Prison Awareness Course (PAC) and other webinar events
• Provide technical support (e.g. Zoom hosting etc) for the delivery of the PAC and other webinar events
• Planning bi-annual team days and any one-off events, in consultation with the Project Manager
• Representing The Welcome Directory at selected events (as required)

Administration

• Answering email enquiries
• Editing recordings/ videos and updating resources in Canva
• Collating routine data and creating/ updating trackers (as required)
• Supporting processing expenses and issuing internal invoices
• Paying-in cheques and sending thank you cards
• Obtaining Gift Aid declarations and submitting claims
• Purchasing stationery supplies and dispatching resources
• Leading on quarterly team password management

Other benefits include:

• Flexible, remote working
• Small and supportive team
• Team days and opportunities for learning
• 5% employer contribution to pension scheme
• Contribution towards internet and phone costs, and provision of laptop and relevant equipment
• Opportunity to gain experience with a well-respected organisation in the criminal justice sector, including a prison visit

Please download the Job Description and Person Specification for further information.

Should you have any questions about the role, please get in touch by email.

The Welcome Directory will be scheduling interviews as applications come in. Please note we reserve the right to close vacancies early should we receive sufficient applications. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application, via CharityJob, as soon as possible. 

‘Fair AI usage’ requires that all applicants declare at the point of submitting, that all information provided is an accurate, authentic representation of their personal background, skills, and work experience. Failure to transparently or honestly represent oneself - including over-reliance on unedited AI-generated text, including cover letters, personal statements or application answers without personal review, may result in an application being withdrawn or disqualified.

About Reprieve

Reprieve is a leading international human rights organisation working to end the death penalty and abuses committed under the banner of national security. Founded in 1999, our mission remains critically relevant as governments worldwide increasingly adopt authoritarian tactics, expanding executive power at the expense of civil liberties.

You can best judge a society by how it treats prisoners, criminal defendants, and the far-flung targets of an ever-changing counter-terror policy. To us, the rule of law means little if we selectively apply it to people we agree with. It is for all of us. Liberty is always eroded at the margins.

Reprieve’s staff is made up of courageous and committed human rights defenders. We provide vital legal and investigative support to those facing execution and victims of rendition, torture, arbitrary detention, extrajudicial killing, and citizenship stripping. Our work spans multiple jurisdictions, challenging states' most egregious human rights violations through strategic litigation, investigations, and advocacy.

We support cases in courts worldwide while building the legal and political momentum necessary to consign these practices to history.

Based in London with Fellows and partners globally, Reprieve operates at the intersection of law, policy, and human rights, working alongside governments, senior legal practitioners, and civil society to advance systemic change.

We collaborate closely with our independent partner organization Reprieve US.

About the Role

The Head of Operations will oversee the day-to-day running of the global operations of Reprieve UK, Reprieve US, and our work around the globe. They will have broad responsibility for HR operations, office and facilities management, IT and systems, compliance, data protection, security risk management and operational support across Reprieve’s international operations

This role is critical to supporting a high performing group of staff, fellows, consultants, and partner organisations working together to provide the highest possible standard of service to Reprieve clients, their families and communities. The successful postholder will be committed to Reprieve’s mission of ending the use of the death penalty and extreme human rights abuses carried out in the name of “national security”, as well as to building and maintaining happy and healthy teams.

The successful postholder will support the Senior Management Team (who hold delegated responsibility) to ensure the smooth running of the organisation, including maintaining compliance with key statutory and regulatory requirements at all times. The Head of Operations will have a central role in ensuring that good practice, wellbeing, and compliance work hand in hand with one another, and is embedded within the ethos of the organisation for the benefit of our clients and Reprieve’s mission.

The Head of Operations will supervise the work of the Operations Team and will report to a member of the Senior Management Team.

Terms

This is a full-time position on a permanent contract. The annual salary is £61,003 full-time per annum, less any required deductions for income tax and national insurance. 

This role is based in Reprieve’s London office. Reprieve operates a hybrid working model and we require staff to work 40% per week from the London office and the rest of the week from home. You will also be available outside of office hours in the event of an emergency and when required as part of the security risk management framework (for example to monitor extreme risk trips). Applicants must have current right to work in the UK, which will be checked prior to interview.

Reprieve is proud to have an open and transparent pay structure, governed by a 3:1 pay ratio between the highest-paid member of staff and the lowest-paid member of staff. We are a flexible employer and offer a range of non-financial benefits to employees. We welcome applications from a range of backgrounds

How to Apply

Please download the application form and job description from our website. Completed application forms should then be uploaded via the form on our website by the deadline of 23:59 BST on 20 September 2026.

Please note that cover letters, CVs and other documents cannot be considered for this role and should not be submitted.

Play a pivotal role in shaping how we support, develop and empower our people, at an exciting time of growth for Betknowmore UK.

Betknowmore UK has grown rapidly into a delivery organisation of real scale and ambition, running multiple funded services with staff and volunteers across the country, and a workforce that proudly and intentionally includes people with lived experience of gambling harm. As we continue to grow, we're looking for an experienced Interim HR Manager to help us build on strong foundations and take our people function to the next level, over a defined eight-month period (with the possiblility of extension through mutual agreement).

Reporting to the Director of Finance and Operations and line managing our HR Officer, you'll lead three connected priorities: building the capability and confidence of our managers; shaping our workforce development strategy, including career pathways for colleagues with lived experience; and making sure we're fully prepared for the employment law changes arriving under the Employment Rights Act 2025. This is a genuine change role with a lasting legacy, you'll help leave the organisation stronger, more capable and better equipped for the future.

What you'll be doing

• Providing expert, pragmatic advice on employee relations matters, and leading complex or contentious casework where genuinely necessary, coaching managers to build their own confidence in handling cases
• Keeping the organisation ahead of the phased implementation of the Employment Rights Act 2025, and advising the policy team on the changes required
• Managing the relationship with our external employment law advisers, briefing tightly and translating advice into workable decisions
• Building the capability and confidence of line managers through practical, scenario-based training and coaching through live situations
• Developing a manager toolkit — templates, letters, scripts, decision trees and a clear escalation route
• Owning and developing our workforce development strategy, including a capability framework and career pathways for colleagues with lived experience, from volunteering through to management roles
• Establishing our learning and development framework, including induction, professional accreditation and qualification routes
• Improving consistency and fairness in recruitment and selection, and line managing, supervising and developing the HR Officer
• Providing HR risk reporting to the senior management team and, as requested, to the Board

What we're looking for

• We're interested in hearing from candidates who have:
• Substantial generalist HR experience at HR Manager or senior HR Business Partner level, including sustained periods as the most senior HR person in an organisation or business unit
• Experience of working in a lived experience-led organisation, or one with a significant peer or lived experience workforce
• A proven track record of building line manager capability, coaching managers through live situations rather than doing the work for them
• Experience developing and implementing a workforce development or HR strategy, including competency frameworks and career pathways
• Demonstrable experience of handling complex and contentious employee relations casework end to end, including matters carrying genuine tribunal risk
• Current, working knowledge of UK employment law, including the Employment Rights Act 2025 and its practical implications for employers
• Experience of working in a lean or fast-growing organisation, operating without a large in-house HR or legal team
• Strong influencing skills with senior colleagues, and excellent judgement on confidentiality, conflicts of interest and escalation
• CIPD Level 5 or above, or equivalent demonstrable experience
• Knowledge of the gambling harms, addiction, health or social welfare sectors, experience of a comparable commissioning transition, and experience of interim or fractional assignments would all be advantageous, as would CIPD Level 7 or Chartered MCIPD status.

Why join us?

You'll be joining a growing, ambitious charity making a real difference to people's lives. This is a unique opportunity to shape our people strategy from the ground up, build lasting management capability, and leave a genuine legacy alongside a passionate, lived experience-informed team who are proud of what they do.

This is an exciting opportunity to join Home-Start Kirklees at a time of growth and development. You’ll play a key role in shaping services that support local families, leading a passionate team and helping ensure children have the best possible start in life.  This lead role is fundamental to overseeing all operational delivery of services, managing projects, developing the workforce and partnership engagement.

Home-Start is a voluntary organisation committed to promoting the welfare of families through recruiting and training volunteers to provide family support. Our vision is that families will be safe, healthy and resilient and that children will have the best start in life.

We are currently recruiting for an Operations Lead

Location:  Huddersfield Town Centre Office. Partnership work across Kirklees required. Hybrid and flexible working pattern available.

Salary: NJC Scale SCP 29-32 (£39,862 - £42,839 pro rata). Starting salary SCP 29, increasing to SCP 30 after a successful probationary period.

Hours: 37 hours per week (negotiable part-time hours available).

Benefits: Generous annual leave allowance including Birthday leave with one week extra annual leave after 5 years’ service.  Well-being support (Employee Assistance Programme). Professional development and travel expenses paid. Free parking at town centre office location.

Family friendly policies.

This is an exciting opportunity to join Home-Start Kirklees at a time of growth and development.

You’ll play a key role in shaping services that support local families, leading a passionate team and helping ensure children have the best possible start in life.  This lead role is fundamental to overseeing all operational delivery of services, managing projects, developing the workforce and partnership engagement.

Essential requirements include:

• Good interpersonal, motivational and communication skills
• A passion for working in the voluntary sector and making a difference to families
• Excellent leadership and project management skills
• Experience of developing effective working partnerships with stakeholders

Please contact us for an application pack

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 14th September 2026

Interviews for this post will be held on Thursday 24th September 2026

Please do not send CVs.

 Any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory DBS check at enhanced level and barring service check and the receipt of appropriate references.

Home-Start Kirklees is committed to a policy of equality and diversity which respects the identity, rights and value of all individuals.  We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and all staff working with these groups are expected to share a commitment to this. You will be expected to report any concerns relating to the safeguarding of children and/or young people in accordance with agreed procedures. If your own conduct in relation to the safeguarding of children or young people gives cause for concern, Home-Start Kirklees child protection procedures will be followed, alongside implementation of the charity’s disciplinary procedure.

The Burton at Bideford is an art gallery and museum based in North Devon, situated in the historic port town of Bideford where art, craft, agriculture and maritime heritage meet at the water's edge. As a proud Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, The Burton is at a pivotal moment with new leadership and ambition for the next stage of our story. 

The Deputy Director (Operations and Business Development) is a new senior leadership role that will work in close partnership with the Director and Board of Trustees to improve strategic effectiveness and sustainable growth. Created to support the next stage in The Burton's development, this role will translate strategic ambition into practical delivery, ensuring the organisation has the leadership, systems and operational capability needed to achieve its long-term goals.

The Deputy Director will lead organisational planning, internal operations, financial planning and performance, while supporting business development, commercial activity and income growth. They will oversee the systems, processes and infrastructure that enable The Burton to operate effectively, make informed decisions and deliver its ambitions.

Deputy Director (Operations and Business Development) Job Details

Job Title: Deputy Director (Operations and Business Development)
Contract: Full time (37.5 hours per week)
Duration: Two-year fixed-term contract. We hope this role will become a permanent part of our senior leadership team, subject to securing sustainable funding. There is a three-month probationary period.
Salary: £45,000 per year
Hours: The Burton works on a 7-day rota and the hours can be worked flexibly over the full week dependent on operational need. Some weekend and evening work will be required on a rota basis.
Location: The Burton at Bideford, EX39 2QQ. Occasional flexible/home-working is offered but the majority of the working week will be at The Burton.
Responsible to: Director
Responsible for: Commercial Operations Manager, Finance Officer, Operations and Front of House Coordinator-day rota and the hours can be worked flexibly over the full week dependent on operational need. Some weekend and evening work will be required on a rota basis.

Person Specification

Potential applicants may already be in a similar role or feel ready to take the next step in developing their careers and contributing to an ambitious organisation at a pivotal moment of its journey. Experience of working within the arts or charity sector may be an advantage to this role but is not a requirement – we are excited to explore transferable skills from other sectors.

You do not need to meet all of the person specification but we are excited to meet candidates with:

• Significant experience in operations, business development and/or a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrable experience contributing to organisational planning, budgeting and performance management.
• Confidence using financial information, budgets and management reporting to support decisions.
• Experience supporting income generation through commercial activity, partnerships, fundraising or business development.
• Experience leading, supporting and developing teams and creating collaborative working cultures.
• An understanding of HR process and experience in policy development.

For full person specification please refer to our recruitment pack.

We are looking for someone who is: 

• Strategic but enjoys making things happen.
• Financially confident and commercially aware.
• Able to build trust and work collaboratively.
• Comfortable moving between strategic thinking and operational delivery.
• Excited to work in a small organisation where responsibilities are varied and interconnected.

Key Dates

Application deadline: 10am, Tuesday 1 September 2026
First interviews: Monday 14 September 2026
Second interviews: Date to be confirmed

How to Apply for the Deputy Director (Operations and Business Development) role

Please download the full Recruitment Pack and Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form on our website.

The Burton at Bideford is an equal opportunities and Disability Confident employer who understands the benefits of diversity so that everyone – irrespective of individual identities, background, or any personal characteristics – receives fair and equal treatment in a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable environment.

#DeputyDirector #DeputyDirectorJobs #DeputyDirectorOperations #DeputyDirectorBusinessDevelopment #DeputyDirectorLeadership #DeputyDirectorCharity #Director #DirectorJobs #OperationsDirector

#BusinessDevelopment Director #CharityDirector #OperationsAndBusinessDevelopment #OperationsLeadership #BusinessDevelopmentLeadership #StrategicLeadership #SeniorLeadership

#DeputyDirectorOperations #DeputyDirectorBusinessDevelopment #DeputyDirectorStrategy #DeputyDirectorFinance #DeputyDirectorGovernance

Title: Head of Operations

Responsible to: CEO

Hours: 35 hours per week

Salary: £45,000 - £48,000 FT (depending on experience and qualifications)

Based: Willesden, NW10 2JR; Haringey borough (including Hornsey, N8 9LP and Tottenham Hale, N17 9FU) + other locations if required

Contract: Permanent (subject to continuation of funding)

Please Note: Enhanced DBS check will be required

JOB OVERVIEW

Do you want to work for an organisation that makes a real difference, every day, to people from all walks of life? Do you want to use your operational management experience to have a tangible impact in the community? This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced team leader looking to take on a meaningful new career challenge to join the Brent Irish Advisory Service (BIAS) as Head of Operations.

The Head of Operations oversees all of BIAS’s projects, managing a small, high-performing team of project coordinators and frontline advice and community-support staff to ensure that we provide the highest-quality service to our clients. You will need to have demonstrable team-management experience, strong people and communication skills, and a willingness to take a hands-on approach to project delivery, along with excellent organisational and strategic abilities to ensure that projects are delivered sustainably, effectively and efficiently.

In 2025, BIAS expanded its successful Brent-based advice service and active ageing clubs into Haringey borough. The Head of Operations will take the lead on further building and developing the new services in Haringey, ensuring that we replicate our excellent quality of service, strong record of positive outcomes and loyal service-user base.

This is a key role within the BIAS senior leadership team, which will give you the opportunity to have a direct impact on shaping the organisation’s future strategy and direction.

KEY WORK AREAS AND MAIN DUTIES

Staff management

• Manage a team of five project coordinators and five front-line staff to ensure effective delivery and monitoring of BIAS’s core welfare and housing advice, active ageing, volunteering and befriending projects, which support over 900 people per year.
• Manage HR procedures, including employment contracts, probation assessment, leave administration, staff supervision, performance management and exit procedures.
• Conduct recruitment procedures where needed, and supervise the onboarding process for new joiners.
• Oversee training and development needs and budgets.
• Ensure good teamwork and lines of communication between staff, including by chairing regular staff meetings.
• Create a positive working environment in which equity and diversity are promoted and staff can do their best.

Project management

• Project-manage the further development of new advice and active ageing services in Haringey borough.
• Take the lead on promotion and marketing of BIAS’s services, including by representing the charity to partner organisations and at external events.
• Contribute to the organisation and running of regular community and fundraising events.
• Deputise for the Advice Services Manager where needed, supporting the welfare and housing advisers with complex casework, forward planning and client management.
• Support the Active Ageing Coordinators and volunteer teams wherever needed with the day-to-day running of the active ageing clubs.

Quality and service delivery

• Oversee quality-assurance procedures in line with the Advice Quality Standard (AQS), and spearhead biannual renewal of BIAS’s AQS accreditation.
• Oversee running of BIAS’s volunteer project in line with the Investing in Volunteers quality accreditation standards.
• Serve as internal data protection officer, monitoring GDPR compliance, managing risk and responding to any potential data breaches.
• Serve as BIAS safeguarding lead, ensuring that safeguarding policies and training are kept up to date, and that all safeguarding concerns are appropriately addressed.
• Work with the Fundraising and Communications Manager to administer the BIAS website and implement BIAS’s social media strategy.
• Administer BIAS’s IT and client management systems (Microsoft 365, SharePoint, BrightHR, Lamplight CRM), coordinating training, updates and troubleshooting.

Operational leadership

• Advise the CEO on all staffing and service-delivery issues.
• Monitor and report on service delivery, including through monthly advice and volunteer-project reports, quarterly Board reports and regular funder reports.
• Carry out regular reviews of BIAS’s annual business plan, risk register, five-year strategy and internal policies and procedures, providing recommendations to the CEO and Board of Trustees on strategic direction.
• Research and secure funding from grant-making organisations, ensuring BIAS’s future financial sustainability.
• Work closely with the Finance Manager and CEO on budgeting, grant monitoring, cashflow and financial authorisation.

These are the basic duties required of the Head of Operations. However, it is necessary for all staff to be flexible and you may be required from time to time to perform other reasonable duties which are required for the efficient running of the organisation. We will also offer training opportunities to support your career development.

Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. This role will be based in our advice offices and club venues in Willesden and Haringey but there may be some options for flexible working (e.g. one day per week from home). Occasional evening or weekend work may be required.

ABOUT BIAS

BIAS is a local charity which has supported England’s largest Irish community in Brent for almost fifty years. We deliver our support through our welfare and housing advice service, our active ageing clubs, our volunteer project and our befriending scheme. We raise over £2 million in extra income for the most vulnerable and disadvantaged every year and have over 7000 attendances at our club services. BIAS has recently expanded into Haringey borough and has exciting plans to further develop its project scope and geographical reach, supported by sustainable and diversified grant funding, including from Ireland’s Emigrant Support Programme.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter. The deadline for applications is 29th August 2026 but we encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible as interviews may be carried out on a rolling basis.

We are looking for a person with an understanding of working with a values-driven team of people, in the charity or not-for-profit sector.

The person appointed will have an appreciation of the aims and values of the Sustain alliance and be excited by supporting our organisation in effective ways of working, whilst freeing up senior leaders and spokespeople to undertake influencing, communication, partnership development and fundraising activities.

The Operations and People Manager will help Sustain function effectively as an organisation and be a great place to work. This is a senior, trusted role working closely with the Chief Executive, Senior Leadership Team (SLT), Senior Management Team (SMT), line managers and Trustees to strengthen our people, operational and governance systems.

The post-holder will lead practical improvements in HR, people processes, line management standards, staff development, onboarding, offboarding, organisational culture and compliance. They will combine sound judgement, strong systems thinking and a people-centred approach, helping Sustain keep processes clear, proportionate and well-managed, while supporting colleagues to focus on effective delivery.

The mission of the Sustain alliance is to catalyse systemic change in the UK’s food and farming system – securing a healthy, fair, and sustainable future for all people, nature and a stable climate. Working in collaboration with our alliance members and others, we run a range of advocacy work, projects and campaigns to achieve permanent changes in policy and practice; and to engage more people, organisations and communities in being food system change-makers.

As with all senior roles at Sustain, the person appointed to this role will work mainly at the Sustain office in London during their probationary period, and thereafter at least half of working hours at our office, whilst benefiting from the flexibility offered to all colleagues. This is part of senior role-modelling of the creativity, support, engagement and well-being benefits that in-person working cultivates between colleagues. This will be managed in coordination with other senior colleagues to enable good in-person coverage and connectivity across the week and across common holiday periods.

Role and responsibilities
•Strengthen Sustain’s people, HR, operational and governance systems so that the charity works effectively, fairly and well.
•Help Sustain be a great place to work, with clear standards, supportive line management, good staff development and a positive, inclusive culture.
•Lead on high standards and practical improvements in recruitment; induction; probation; appraisals; people and HR processes; line management skills, knowledge and tools; staff consultation; and organisational policies and practices.
•Support senior leaders, line managers and Trustees with clear advice, reliable processes, good records and proportionate and effective risk management.
•Develop and maintain systems that are simple, useful and appropriate for Sustain’s size, values, resources and legal responsibilities
 

Tasks and responsibilities:

Organisational operations and systems
•Lead on managing and developing the charity’s operational activities.
•Ensure that senior management actions that support operational effectiveness are managed and carried out in a timely way, via an accessible and accountable process.
•Lead and/or participate in a range of internal groups that support operational effectiveness.
•Support the Chief Executive, Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and other relevant staff with governance matters, including:
oReporting to the Council of Trustees on operational and people matters;
oPerformance of the ‘Company Secretary’ role on behalf of Trustees;
oTrustee recruitment, induction and management of necessary information and processes;
oAppropriate compliance with the Charity Governance Code.
•Working with the Chief Executive and Chair of the Council of Trustees, help prepare and coordinate the agendas and the running of the quarterly board meeting and occasional (at least annual) staff and Trustees strategy day, as well as the Sustain AGM, Annual Report and Trustee elections (annual), as one of the key links in communication with and between Sustain’s Council of Trustees.
•Lead on development and implementation of one or more relevant chapter of Sustain’s Organisation Development Plan (ODP).

•Support the planning and running of events, working with Sustain team leads, partners, venues and contributors.
•Work with the Head of Finance, Head of Digital and Design and external suppliers to help ensure office, IT and operational arrangements are appropriate and support effective working.
 

People, HR and employment processes
•Lead development and implementation of HR processes, practical actions and transactions, using external HR and/or legal advisors for authoritative support and advice where needed.
•Lead on full lifecycle support for Sustain staff including:
oEffective and inclusive recruitment, onboarding and offboarding – implementing Sustain’s commitment to recruitment for diversity – working with SMT, finance and admin leads;
oCreating, grading, reviewing and updating job descriptions, working with line managers and the senior leadership team;
oManaging employment contract variances; funding precarity; end-of-contract and risk-of-redundancy processes, working with senior managers, line managers, affected employees and HR/legal advisors;
oCreating or supporting a range of opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds and identities to get involved.
•Act as first point of contact for HR queries, taking ownership of policies and process, culture and employee relations; informed by HR advice, consultation and annual staff survey, including overseeing an action plan to embed areas of good practice, and to pursue improvements in an accountable way.
•Regular review of job descriptions, grades, progression and staff benefits within Sustain to ensure we remain competitive within the sector.
•Provide or commission sector benchmarking data, analysis and recommendations to inform decision-making, using a methodology agreed with Trustee oversight, on matters such financial and non-financial staff benefits.
•Maintain and improve the Staff Handbook, Recruitment Handbook, and related policies, guidance, advice and other support.

Line management standards, learning and staff development
•Lead the development and implementation of clear, practical standards for line management at Sustain, working with SLT, SMT, the Line Managers Forum and external advisers where appropriate.

•Develop and oversee implementation of key processes such as annual appraisals, annual planning and objective-setting, and a suitable performance management process.
•Help ensure objective-setting, personal development and progression conversations are undertaken routinely, and that these and performance management are handled consistently, fairly and in line with Sustain’s values and legal responsibilities.
•Support line managers to run effective 1-to-1s, probation reviews, appraisals, workload conversations, development conversations, and difficult conversations where needed.
•Ensure suitable and sufficient ongoing learning opportunities and training for the staff team and the Line Managers group, driving the charity’s approach to consistent standards, personal development and career progression.
•Maintain and improve the Line Managers Handbook and related tools, templates and guidance.
Culture, EDI, staff voice and union liaison
•Manage and develop Sustain as a great place to work, with a working culture and practices that support effective delivery, as well as health, wellbeing and personal development.
•Serve as an active member of the Diversity Group, to implement and innovate on equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism, and to gather data to measure and report on impact and progress.
•Working with the CEO, provide a route for requests and suggestions from the Health and Wellbeing Group to be properly considered and actioned as appropriate.
•Develop and support ways for staff voices to be heard and influence policies, practices and organisational culture, and for staff to be able to raise ideas and concerns confidently and see actions taken as a result.
•Support structured staff consultation and union liaison processes, helping ensure they are well-organised, transparent, well-documented and conducted in line with Sustain's policies and recognition arrangements.

Governance, compliance and risk management
•Develop and update key resources, contributing to useful reference sets such as the Staff Handbook, Recruitment Handbook and Line Managers Handbook, including overseeing production, maintenance and updating of all policies, procedures and guidance relevant to operations and people.
•Ensure Sustain complies with all employment, health and safety, data protection, charity legislation and statutory guidance including filing at Companies House and maintaining organisational records with the Charity Commission, and managing the risk register and internal policies tracker.

•Ensure adherence to health, safety, diversity and safeguarding procedures in the office, in hybrid working and for events and activities; undertaking comprehensive risk assessments for events and activities; and ensuring appropriate risk mitigation, staff communication and updates to guidance.
Other
•Potential for this role to line-manage one or more member of staff, volunteer, paid intern and/or external consultant, offering 1-to-1 support for objective-setting, work delivery, coaching and pastoral matters.
•Any other reasonable tasks and duties, agreed with the Chief Executive, consistent with the nature and level of the role.

Person specification / What we’re looking for:

Qualifications and requirements
•Significant experience operating at a senior level in a people, HR, operations or an organisation development role, including responsibility for organisational systems and staff management. [E]
•Experience of working in a charity, not-for-profit, campaigning, membership, alliance or other values-led organisation. [D]
•Demonstrable commitment to the operations and people role through a relevant qualification, training or other continuing professional development (CPD). [D]
 

Experience
•Significant experience leading organisational, people or operational improvement and advising senior decision-makers. [E]
•Developing skills and learning plans, and commissioning and/or delivering learning opportunities including training, workshops, facilitation and/or coaching. [E]
•Managing employment contracts to improve employee information and job security, especially where funding is short-term and project-based, with insights into good practice. [D]
•Delivering training and/or guidance to improve people-related functions to be delivered by line managers. [D]
•Working in a unionised organisation. [D]
Skills, abilities and attitudes
•Confidence and experience to take a leadership role on operational and people matters, working with the Chief Executive, Trustees and senior managers. [E]
•Strong problem-solving skills, and negotiation skills and the ability and confidence to provide insightful and constructive proposals and advice. [E]
•Excellent project management skills. [E]
•Aptitude for managing financial information and budgets. [D]
•Ability to communicate clearly and sensitively in writing and verbally, including on complex, confidential or contentious matters. [E]
•Proficiency with computer software and records management. [E]

Knowledge
•Knowledge and experience of end-to-end management of staff team members and their development: recruitment, induction and probation; learning experiences, skills and training; personal and career development; performance management; support for health and wellbeing; and HR processes. [E]
•Sound knowledge of UK HR and employment rules and statutory guidance, and their implementation in good practice. [E]
•Knowledge of IT, online and practical systems for improving processes and efficiency. [D]
 

Attitudes and personal qualities
•Highly organised and self-motivated, with the ability to work flexibly, independently and meet deadlines; whilst having the judgment to know when and who to consult before proceeding. [E]
•High integrity, with a professional, diplomatic, values-led, solutions-focused and collaborative approach to working with individuals and a wider team. [E]
•Commitment and ability to work at our office in East London regularly. [E]
•Demonstrable commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and racial justice. [E]
•Commitment to the mission and values of Sustain, and an interest in healthy and sustainable food and farming. [D]

Application closing date: Monday 14 September at 5pm (BST)

First stage interviews will take place (via Zoom) on: Wednesday 23 September 2026

Second stage interviews to take place in-person (London office) on: Wednesday 30 September 2026

Early applications are encouraged.

For any queries, please contact our recruitment team.

Employment Details: 

• Location: Haringey (N17), London, UK. (This is an In-Person role with optional one day working remotely) 
• Job Title:  Director of Operations 
• Reporting to: CEO, with accountability to the Board of Trustees 
• Line Manages: Operations Co-ordinator and Finance Officer
• Employment Type: Full-Time (40hrs Per Week)
• Start date: October 2026 (Ideally, or later if you have a notice period) 

Benefits:

• Annual Leave: 25 days (Exclusive of Bank Holiday)
• 1 x WFH/flexi working as per policy
• CPD Budget: £1000
• Group Life Insurance
• Discount on Food (Specific Restaurants)
• Free Brunch every Thursday
• Company Well-being Events
• Pension Contribution

Summary of the role:
The Director of Operations is a pivotal senior leadership role at Sister System, responsible for strengthening the people, culture, systems and organisational foundations that enable our mission to thrive. Working closely with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees, the postholder will play a central role in delivering our current strategic priorities and shaping the next chapter of Sister System as we develop our future strategy beyond September 2027. 

This is a significant opportunity to help shape a growing, values-led organisation founded on co-curation, sisterhood, race & gender equity and the belief that girls and young women should be active architects of the services, systems and opportunities designed for them. With oversight of financial management, people and culture, compliance, risk and organisational infrastructure, the Director of Operations will lead on empowering & ensuring that our internal culture and ways of working reflect the same care, accountability, ambition and empowerment that sit at the heart of our model. 

The role will be instrumental in translating our founding vision into strong, sustainable practice, ensuring Sister System is equipped to grow its impact while remaining deeply connected to the voices, experiences and leadership of the girls and young women we exist to serve. 

Our Charity:
Sister System exists to ensure that care-affected girls and young women are not defined by the systems they have experienced, but are supported to recognise their strengths, shape their futures and access the same opportunities as their peers. 

Our culturally competent, co-curated model works alongside girls and young women aged 13–24 through a long-term journey of support, progression and leadership. Across three interconnected stages, we provide trusted relationships, mentoring, therapeutic support, education, leadership development and pathways into employment. Our approach recognises that meaningful change takes time, consistency and a community that continues to believe in her. 

Founded with girls and young women, not simply for them, Sister System places their voices, experiences and ambitions at the heart of everything we do. Through our growing hub-and-spoke model, we are expanding our reach while also influencing the wider systems, services and institutions that shape their lives. 

Our ambition is not only to improve individual outcomes, but to demonstrate a better way of working with care-affected girls and young women—one that is relational, culturally responsive, asset-based and built around what they tell us they need to thrive. 

As Sister System enters its next phase of growth and prepares to shape its future strategy, we are seeking an experienced and values-led Director of Operations to join our Senior Leadership Team. This is an exciting opportunity to strengthen the people, culture, systems and infrastructure that will enable our organisation—and the girls and young women alongside us—to achieve even more. 

Our Vision: 
A world where empowered girls reach their potential through equitable opportunities.

Our Mission: 
To bridge the gap between care-affected girls and young women within mainstream society by working alongside them to ensure they have the same opportunities that everyone else has – at home, school, work and within our communities. 

Our Values: 

• COLLABORATIVE 
  We co-curate programmes with our Sis-Stars. We seek powerful partnerships. 
• EVIDENCE-BASED 
  We build trust and respect within our sector. 
• MASTERFUL 
  We aim for excellence as standard and share our learning. 
• SOLUTION-FOCUSED 
  We innovate to overcome challenges with a long-term goal in mind. 
• TENACIOUS 
  We are not afraid to take a stand and push for change. 

 
Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership and Implementation 

• Work closely with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees to translate Sister System’s strategy, theory of change, operational model and financial plans into clear organisational priorities and coordinated action. 
• Play a central role in shaping Sister System’s next strategy ahead of the September 2027 refresh, ensuring it reflects our founding commitment to co-curation, the voices of girls and young women, our evolving three-stage model and our future growth ambitions. 
• Lead the development of proportionate planning, monitoring and review processes that enable the Senior Leadership Team to track progress, reflect on performance, identify barriers and remain accountable for delivery. 
• Monitor progress against agreed strategic goals and KPIs, ensuring that risks, dependencies and areas requiring leadership attention are clearly identified and addressed. 
• Support senior leaders to turn strategic priorities into realistic plans, with clear ownership, timescales and measurable outcomes. 
• Ensure that learning from delivery, impact data, staff experience and the voices of girls and young women inform strategic decision-making and organisational improvement. 
• Cultivate a strong shared sense of purpose across Sister System, helping colleagues understand how their roles contribute to our mission, values and long-term ambitions. 

Financial Strategy and Audit 

• Work closely with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees to shape, implement and regularly evaluate Sister System’s financial strategy, ensuring it supports our mission, strategic ambitions and long-term sustainability. 
• Provide clear, financial recommendations to the CEO, helping the organisation navigate the balance between delivering high-quality, meaningful impact for girls and young women, achieving value for money and maintaining financial resilience. 
• Translate Sister System’s strategic priorities, delivery model and growth ambitions into realistic financial plans, forecasts and scenarios that support timely and well-informed decision-making. 
• Lead financial scenario planning and ensure that the CEO and Board have a clear understanding of the financial implications, risks and trade-offs associated with key organisational decisions. 
• Lead and oversee the annual audit process, working effectively with external auditors, the finance team, senior leaders and the Board to ensure a robust, timely and transparent process. 
• Ensure that learning and recommendations arising from audits, financial reviews and assurance activity are translated into clear improvements and strengthened organisational practice. 

Financial Management 

• Lead the development, monitoring and management of annual budgets, reforecasts and longer-term financial plans, ensuring resources are aligned with Sister System’s strategic priorities. 
• Hold and actively manage the tension between quality, impact, affordability and value for money, ensuring financial decisions protect the integrity of Sister System’s model and the experience of the girls and young women we serve. 
• Provide the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board with clear, accessible and timely financial information, insight and recommendations to support effective leadership and governance. 
• Produce high-level financial reports and analysis covering budgets, cash flow, reserves, forecasts, strategic KPIs and other relevant performance indicators. 
• Maintain and continuously strengthen proportionate financial systems, controls and processes that reflect Sister System’s size, stage of growth and evolving operating model. 
• Ensure that robust financial and performance-reporting infrastructure is in place, with clear accountability, reliable data and appropriate oversight across the organisation. 
• Support Directors and budget holders to understand their financial responsibilities, manage resources effectively and make informed decisions within agreed parameters. 
• Identify emerging financial risks, pressures and opportunities for greater efficiency, advising the CEO on appropriate actions and ensuring these are monitored and addressed. 
• Oversee high quality bookkeeping practice to ensure reporting is accurate and up to date. 
• Work with the fundraising team to develop budgets for proposals and create timely financial reports for funders and donors 

Culture and Operational Effectiveness 

• Work closely with our People and Culture consultant, CEO and Senior Leadership Team to shape and embed a progressive, inclusive and high-performing organisational culture aligned with Sister System’s values: Collaborative, Evidence-based, Masterful, Solution-focused and Tenacious. 
• Champion a culture of regular, honest and constructive feedback, helping managers and colleagues to hold crucial conversations with clarity, care and accountability. 
• Ensure that Sister System’s internal culture reflects the relational, empowering and values-led approach that sits at the heart of our work with girls and young women. 
• Review existing organisational processes and workflows, identifying practical opportunities to improve clarity, consistency, collaboration and efficiency. 
• Develop and embed proportionate ways of working that support Sister System’s current size, evolving operating model and future growth. 

People Planning and Management 

• Lead the development of a clear and forward-looking people plan that ensures Sister System has the right structure, capacity, capabilities and leadership in place to deliver its strategic ambitions. 
• Support managers to build high-performing teams through effective objective-setting, regular feedback, performance management and professional development. 
• Foster an environment in which people are supported to grow, appropriately challenged and held accountable for delivering against agreed expectations. 
• Facilitate professional learning, career development and progression across the organisation, ensuring that opportunities are transparent, equitable and aligned with organisational need. 
• Oversee workforce and succession planning, ensuring that the organisational structure remains appropriate, affordable and responsive to Sister System’s development. 
• Work with the CEO and relevant advisers to ensure fair and appropriate pay, benefits and working conditions. 
• Oversee recruitment and the end-to-end employee experience, from attraction and onboarding through to development, retention and exit. 
• Ensure that people policies, practices and management approaches are legally compliant, consistently applied and reflective of Sister System’s values. 

Compliance and Risk Management 

• Ensure that Sister System meets its legal, regulatory and governance responsibilities as a charity and employer. 
• Lead the development and maintenance of a proportionate organisational risk-management framework that protects Sister System’s people, assets, reputation and ability to deliver its mission. 
• Ensure that key organisational risks are clearly identified, owned, monitored and reported to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees. 
• Promote a culture in which risk is understood and actively managed without limiting thoughtful innovation, learning or ambition.

Governance, Communications and Facilities 

• Facilitate clear, timely and effective communication and cooperation between the Board of Trustees, CEO and Senior Leadership Team. 
• Support the development of strong governance systems, ensuring that trustees receive the information, insight and assurance required to fulfil their responsibilities effectively. 
• Work closely with trustees through the Finance and Audit committee 
• Oversee the organisation’s IT infrastructure and digital systems through external providers, ensuring that they remain secure, reliable and appropriate for Sister System’s needs. 
• Oversee the effective operation of Sister System’s physical workspace within a fully managed office environment, working with building management and relevant external providers where required. 
• Ensure that Sister System provides a safe, welcoming and accessible environment for girls and young women, staff, volunteers, visitors and partners across its hub, spoke locations and external activities. 
• Ensure that appropriate health and safety systems, procedures and responsibilities are understood, implemented and regularly reviewed. 

Person Specification 
We are seeking an experienced, dynamic and values-led operational leader to join Sister System’s Senior Leadership Team. You will combine sound judgement and strong organisational skills with a warm, collaborative leadership style and a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for care-affected girls and young women. 

You do not need to be a specialist in every area of the role. You will, however, need the confidence and experience to lead across a broad operational portfolio, work effectively with professional advisers and external providers, and provide clear, practical advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Board of Trustees. 

Essential Experience and Knowledge 

• Significant experience in a senior operations, finance, people, governance or organisational leadership role within a charity, social enterprise or similarly values-led organisation. 
• Experience of translating organisational strategy into clear priorities, plans, systems and measurable outcomes. 
• Experience of developing and managing organisational budgets, forecasts and financial reporting, with the ability to balance quality, impact, affordability and value for money. 
• Experience of supervising or coordinating an external audit process, working effectively with auditors, finance colleagues and the Board. 
• Experience of people planning, performance management and supporting managers to build capable, accountable and high-performing teams. 
• Experience of developing or improving organisational systems, processes and ways of working during a period of growth or change. 
• A sound understanding of charity governance, organisational risk, compliance and the responsibilities of senior leaders and trustees. 
• Experience of working collaboratively with a CEO, senior leadership colleagues, trustees, consultants and external professional advisers. 
• A strong understanding of equity, inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice, and the ability to embed these principles within organisational culture and decision-making. 

Skills and Leadership Approach 

• An approachable, emotionally intelligent and credible leader who can build trust, motivate others and develop effective working relationships across an organisation. 
• The ability to lead with both care and accountability, supporting open feedback and helping colleagues to hold constructive and sometimes crucial conversations. 
• Strong strategic thinking, with the ability to understand the wider organisational picture while maintaining oversight of important operational detail. 
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial, people or operational information clearly and accessibly. 
• Strong organisational and project-management skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, meet deadlines and maintain momentum. 
• Sound judgement and the confidence to provide constructive challenge, identify risks and offer clear recommendations to the CEO and Board. 
• A practical and solution-focused approach, with the ability to move from discussion and planning into coordinated action. 
• The ability to handle sensitive, confidential and personal information professionally and in accordance with Sister System’s policies, data-protection responsibilities and GDPR. 
• Energy, curiosity and enthusiasm for strengthening an ambitious organisation as it prepares to shape and deliver its next strategy. 

Values and Commitment 

• A demonstrable commitment to Sister System’s mission and to improving the opportunities, experiences and outcomes of care-affected girls and young women. 
• The ability to model and champion Sister System’s values: Collaborative, Evidence-based, Masterful, Solution-focused and Tenacious. 
• A commitment to co-curation and to ensuring that the voices, experiences and leadership of girls and young women inform organisational planning and decision-making. 
• A commitment to continuous learning, reflective practice and personal and professional development. 

Desirable 

• Lived experience of the care system, or a strong professional understanding of the experiences of care-affected girls and young women. 
• Experience of working within a founder-led organisation or alongside a founder CEO. 
• Experience of supporting an organisation through growth, restructuring or the development of a new strategy. 
• Knowledge of culturally competent, trauma-informed or relational approaches to working with young people. 
• A relevant professional qualification or equivalent experience in operations, finance, human resources, governance or organisational leadership. 
• Experience working with social care and educational service providers (statutory and third sector). 
• Knowledge of the Charity SORP, Charity Commission reporting requirements, and other third-sector financial regulation. 

Sister System is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

This post is subject to two satisfactory reference checks and DBS enhanced disclosure.

How to apply

Please apply via our recruitment platform Breathe by 31st August 2026. You will be asked to upload your CV and answer the following questions:

Values alignment 
Sister System's model is built on co-curation (working with girls and young women, not simply for them) and on being Collaborative, Evidence-based, Masterful, Solution-focused and Tenacious. Which of these values do you feel most aligned with, and which do you find hardest to live up to in practice?
 
People & Culture
Sister System is a founder-led organisation, underpinned by race and gender equity and a culturally competent, trauma-informed approach to working with girls and young women. Tell us about a time you strengthened internal culture of this nature within a team. What resistance did you meet, and what was different a year later?

Finance 
A key element of the role is monitoring income against budget for current and future years. Charity income can provide additional complexities, particularly with different types of grants. Please explain your understanding of these complexities, and how they impact on recording and reporting, including examples from your own experience if relevant. 

Timeline
Deadline for applications: End of day Monday 31st August 2026 
First round interviews: w/c 7th September 
Second round interviews: w/c 14th September
Decisions made: by 22nd September 

Thank you for your interest in joining Sister System in our mission to inspire and empower young women. 

We are looking for an Operations Executive Assistant to join our Operations Team. This is a varied role at the heart of the organisation, combining operational coordination and executive support. Working across every part of Purposeful Ventures, you will help ensure colleagues have the systems, processes and support they need to do their best work.

Working closely with the Director of Finance and Operations, you will coordinate operational priorities, anticipate issues before they arise, and ensure the organisation runs smoothly, enabling senior leaders to remain focused on strategic work.

No two days will be the same. You might be coordinating a new starter's first day, overseeing office operations, preparing papers for senior meetings, implementing a new operational process, coordinating organisational compliance activities, supporting grant administration, or resolving an operational issue before it becomes a problem.

This is a role for someone who enjoys making things work well. You will be trusted to take ownership, build strong relationships across the organisation and continuously improve how we operate. You'll need to be equally comfortable supporting senior leaders, coordinating projects, solving practical problems and paying close attention to detail.

This role sits at the centre of Purposeful Ventures. You will work with colleagues across the organisation, gaining a broad understanding of how we operate while taking ownership of the systems, processes and coordination that help enhance how the organisation works. If you are someone who enjoys understanding how organisations work and finding practical ways to make them work even better, you will have plenty of opportunities to make a difference.

Job Description

Purpose

The Operations Executive Assistant plays a central role in the efficient running of Purposeful Ventures by providing operational management, executive support and administration across the organisation.

The role is varied and post holders are expected to have, and will be supported to continue to develop, expertise across a broad range of operational activities.

Responsibilities and duties

Executive support

Working closely with the Director of Finance and Operations and Management Team:

• Monitoring operational priorities and proactively following up actions on behalf of the Director of Finance and Operations.
• Preparing briefing notes, reports and background information to support decision-making.
• Coordinating cross-organisational activity on behalf of the Directors, ensuring actions are progressed and deadlines met.
• Providing proactive executive and administrative support to members of the Management Team.
• Managing diaries, scheduling meetings and coordinating logistics where required.
• Providing holiday and absence cover for the Executive Assistant to the CEO, ensuring continuity of support.
• Preparing agendas, coordinating papers and tracking actions from meetings.
• Organising meetings, workshops and events.
• Anticipating administrative requirements and proactively resolving issues to enable senior leaders to focus on strategic priorities.
• Coordinating operational issues across the organisation, using judgement to resolve matters independently and escalating where appropriate.
• Handling confidential information with professionalism and discretion.

Operations and Business Administration

• Working closely with colleagues across operations, communications, philanthropy, finance and project teams:
• Being a first point of contact for enquiries, correspondence and shared mailboxes, ensuring a consistently high level of customer service.
• Managing calendars, room bookings, registering and greeting visitors, organising meetings and organisation wide events.
• Ensuring the effective management of organisational documents, templates and operational systems.
• Maintaining CRM records and contributing to operational reporting.
• Coordinating document administration including agreements and approvals.
• Driving continuous improvement of organisational systems and processes, for example:
  • Leading small operational improvement projects.
  • Coordinating the implementation of new systems and operational processes.
  • Support organisational change initiatives.
• Acting as first point of contact for our external IT provider (Penelope), managing internal IT operations
• Coordinating our operational compliance calendar, ensuring key activities are completed on time, including:
  • Supporting the implementation and review of organisational policies and operational procedures.
  • Coordinating annual policy reviews and maintain version control.
  • Monitoring mandatory organisational compliance activities and escalating any risks.
• Maintaining relationships with operational suppliers; coordinating contract renewals; monitoring service delivery and escalating issues.
• Coordinating office health and safety arrangements, working closely with the building management company. Coordinating workplace risk assessments, maintaining accident records and coordinating fire marshal/first aid arrangements. Acting as Fire Marshal following appropriate training

People operations and onboarding

Working closely with the People Coordinator and colleagues to deliver an outstanding onboarding experience by:

• Carrying out Right to Work and DBS identity verification processes through our Due Diligence Checking platform, including video identity checks where required.
• Managing IT onboarding requests, including Penelope onboarding forms.
• Coordinating system access including EdCity passes and user set up.
• Preparing first-day arrangements including laptops and merchandise; welcoming new starters including building orientation, team introductions, and IT set up.
• Scheduling induction meetings, one-to-one introductions and team coffees.
• Setting colleagues up on the compliance learning system and assigning mandatory training. Monitoring new starter and refresher training to ensure completion and compliance.
• Maintaining organisation charts and onboarding documentation.

Office and Facilities

Ensuring that Purposeful Ventures provides a welcoming, productive and well-organised working environment by:

• Coordinating the day-to-day running of our fully serviced office at EdCity.
• Welcoming visitors and supporting colleagues in the office.
• Managing office supplies and equipment.
• Liaising with building management and external suppliers.
• Coordinating office IT equipment and ensuring new and existing colleagues have the equipment they need.
• Supporting the organisation of internal events and team activities.

Supporting Incubating Organisations and New Projects

Working with organisations that Purposeful Ventures is incubating by:

• Providing ad hoc administrative support to them and new projects.
• Assist with processes, communications, and administration.
• Support teams with coordination and project delivery activities.

The job description is subject to change and the postholder may be required to undertake tasks not specifically referred to above. Such duties, however, will fall within the scope of the job description.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for a highly organised, proactive and collaborative professional with experience providing executive and operational in a fast-paced environment. You will take ownership, build trusted relationships across the organisation, and be passionate about creating efficient systems and delivering an outstanding experience for colleagues and stakeholders.

You will bring an appreciation of the charity and social impact sector and a commitment to Purposeful Ventures' mission and values, recognising the importance of working for the good of the wider system.

Key requirements

The successful candidate will have:

• A strong understanding of office, operations and business administration, with an appreciation of how effective operational processes enable organisations to deliver meaningful outcomes and impact.
• Knowledge of executive support and the principles of providing proactive, high-quality support to senior leaders and management teams.
• An understanding of employee onboarding, colleague experience and the importance of creating a welcoming, well-organised and inclusive environment for new starters.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 and confidence using and administering a range of digital systems, with the curiosity and agility to learn new technologies quickly.
• An understanding of organisational policies and procedures, and the importance of maintaining compliance, consistency and good governance within a charity.
• An understanding of the role of the Charity Commission and Companies House, and an appreciation of the governance and compliance responsibilities of charitable organisations.
• An understanding of information governance, confidentiality and UK data protection legislation (including GDPR), and the importance of handling sensitive information with integrity and professionalism.
• Right to work in the UK

Experience

The successful candidate will have demonstrable experience of:

• Providing proactive executive or senior administrative support to senior leaders or management teams, anticipating needs and enabling others to focus on strategic priorities.
• Coordinating complex diaries, meetings, events and logistics while balancing multiple competing priorities.
• Managing office operations or business administration within a busy, collaborative and fast-paced environment.
• Coordinating multiple operational priorities while exercising sound judgement and working with a high degree of autonomy.
• Delivering a positive onboarding experience through coordinating new starter administration, systems, induction activities and colleague support.
• Taking ownership of operational processes and continuously identifying opportunities to improve systems, simplify ways of working and enhance the experience of colleagues.
• Building positive and trusted relationships across teams and with external suppliers, partners and stakeholders.
• Working with confidential and sensitive information, consistently exercising sound judgement, discretion and high ethical standards.
• Working collaboratively across functions to achieve shared objectives and support organisational success.

Desirable:

• Experience within the charity, education or social impact sector.
• Experience supporting governance, Board or senior leadership meetings.
• Experience coordinating compliance processes such as Right to Work, DBS checks or mandatory training.

Are you ready to embrace a role that’s as diverse as it is rewarding? At YMCA Doncaster, we’re looking for someone who is able to step in wherever needed to keep our operations running smoothly. As a vital member of our team, you’ll be at the forefront of our work, ensuring that young people are able to thrive at the YMCA.

Flexibility is key, and you will be ready to take on duties across duty cover, administration, assessment and sustainment, as well as acting as Duty Manager and tackling issues as they arise.

You will already have experience of being responsible for people, resources or buildings although that may be from a range of situations at work or elsewhere. You will have great organisational and technology skills and be able to manage a complex workload with varied responsibilities.

We’re open to candidates from all sectors with transferable skills, a genuine interest in contributing to the work of the YMCA and a positive attitude that sets the tone for others.

Hours of Work

40 hours plus On Call duties.

Work will be on site and across the whole 24/7 rota, depending on where cover is needed.

For the first two to three months, the majority of your time is likely to be spent on hostel cover shifts to give you a strong practical understanding of our core work. 

The On Call provision is in place at all times, including weekends, nights and Bank Holidays, and is covered on a rota basis with three or four individuals.

We are able to take a reasonable number of other committments into consideration when planning the On Call rota, with each person doing an equal share of Bank Holidays, weekends and everyday cover. 

Main Responsibilities

• To cover frontline duties, including accommodation duty cover, attending reliably and on time in order to ensure continuous cover.
• To act as a Duty Manager, including dealing with any staffing or other issues arising during periods of duty in accordance with set procedures.
• To provide an out-of-hours On Call service on a rota basis with two or three others, responding effectively to concerns.  This will include finding cover in the case of sickness or other absence, or covering a shift at very short notice when no other cover is available. 
• To take on appropriate administrative, leadership, reviewing or project duties including during periods of illness, leave and vacancies.
• To take on delegated responsibilities for young people who need additional practical help to start and sustain their residence at the YMCA.  This is likely to include focussed work on benefits, budgets, housekeeping and similar.  
• To administer and oversee applications for accommodation, including obtaining supporting information from other agencies, assessing support and other needs and interviewing applicants.
• To oversee rent calculation, arrears procedures and benefit claims.
• To collate and report on other performance measures and statistics as required. 
• To keep financial and other records as required. 
• To contribute to the selection and induction of new staff and volunteers.
• To oversee minor and / or occasional staffing issues as required, and to take responsibility for particular staff and volunteers over longer periods.
• To contribute positively to relationships with other organisations.
• To take an active approach to the role and to be able to work on own initiative within set procedures.
• To develop and maintain appropriately professional relationships with members, users and with other staff, and to maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Other reasonable duties as required from time to time by the Line Manager.

Person Specification

• Experience in a similar or related role.
• Able to attend shifts reliably and on time in order to ensure continuous cover.
• Able to demonstrate resilience and adaptability across roles, responsibilities and work patterns needing cover in immediate or long term situations, showing a positive ‘can do’ attitude and setting the tone for other staff during times of particular pressure.
• A commitment to the wellbeing and development of young people, including those with a range of personal and social vulnerabilities.
• Experience of taking responsibility for people, resources or buildings.
• Able to demonstrate sufficient presence, confidence and professionalism for undertaking a management role.
• Able to cover On Call duty, to remain within receiving range of the mobile phone at all times, and to be on site within two hours in the event of an emergency situation.
• Computer literate, able to use Microsoft Word and Excel to a high standard, and able to use technology in devising and using procedures, gathering information and using a range of online software.
• Excellence in written communication and a strong command of grammar. 
• Comfortable working with financial transactions and calculations, and with keeping financial records.
• Able to manage a complex and varied workload effectively and accurately and an ability to prioritise appropriately without supervision. 
• Able to carry out monitoring patrols across indoor and outdoor areas including four floors and two stairways, and to deal with any issues arising.
• Able to react appropriately in challenging situations, using set procedures to support decision-making.
• A clear understanding of the importance of confidentiality and appropriate relationships. 
• Able to uphold the vision and values of YMCA Doncaster.