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Chief Executive Officer - Safe in Sussex
Location: Ferring, West Sussex | Hybrid - 3 days onsite
Salary: In the region of £55,000
Hours: 37 hours per week (a nine-day fortnight may be considered)
Type: Full-time
About Safe in Sussex
Safe in Sussex is a specialist domestic abuse charity helping its service users live free from abuse and fear. For almost 50 years, the organisation has provided refuge accommodation, community-based support and trauma-informed services across West Sussex. The charity operates within the wider Women's Aid network and remains committed to providing a safe space for those in need.
As the charity approaches its 50th anniversary and prepares for the retirement of its long-serving CEO, Safe in Sussex is entering an important new chapter. Financially stable, with strong local partnerships, the organisation is well positioned for its next phase of development and impact.
This is a chance to lead a respected organisation during a period of transition, helping to shape its future while building on a legacy of compassion, resilience and life-changing support.
What You Can Look Forward To
As Chief Executive, you will provide strategic, compassionate and accountable leadership to the charity while working closely with staff, trustees, service users, partners, funders and commissioners.
You will:
About You
We are seeking a strong and values-led leader who combines emotional intelligence, strategic thinking and operational credibility.
Skills and Experience
Personal Attributes
You May Not Tick Every Box
If this opportunity excites you, but you are not sure that you meet every criterion, we would still love to hear from you. We are interested in your potential, experience, perspective and commitment to our mission, not simply a perfect match against a checklist.
Occupational Requirement
Because of the nature and context of the role and, as some of Safe in Sussex's safe spaces are women-only, this post is only open to women. This is an occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010.
Recruitment Timeline
To ensure equitable access to information and support an inclusive recruitment process, Safe in Sussex will host a candidate Q&A webinar in place of individual informal discussions. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Tuesday 22nd September 2026 6-7pm and we will send you a link.
Application Deadline: 5pm, Friday 2 October 2026
First interview: w/c 2nd November
Second Interview: w/c 9th November
How to Apply
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to Safe in Sussex on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and request a candidate pack in the first instance.
For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala.
We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.
Use of AI in 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.
Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.
Safe in Sussex welcomes applications from women of all backgrounds and particularly encourages applications from those whose perspectives are currently underrepresented in charity leadership.
Context of role:
The Outreach Officer plays a key role in raising awareness of services, strengthening community
partnerships and supporting the delivery of high-quality bereavement support activities across the
region. The postholder will engage with local networks, coordinate events, and support volunteers
while ensuring effective monitoring, reporting and continuous improvement. The role involves regular travel within Wessex
Key responsibilities:
Support Service:
1. Event Coordination and Delivery
1.1: Coordinate and deliver regular community engagement activities, including; coffee mornings and
support events.
1.2: Organise and facilitate regular wellbeing and social activities, such as; walks or group sessions.
1.3: Represent the organisation at regional events, including supporting fundraising and CYP teams
when required.
1.4: Co-lead on bookings and coordination of Ty Uchaf, our respite house.
2. Awareness, Training and Engagement
2.1: Lead on regional awareness training delivery for non-emergency services and community-based
organisations.
2.2: Deliver additional 2wish training programmes as required, including Children & Young People
(CYP) and Bereavement in workplace support training.
2.3: Lead awareness and advocacy activities with local ‘support champions’, including professionals
within non-emergency services.
3. Partnership and Network Development
3.1: Actively engage with local bereavement networks through attendance at meetings, hosting
information stands and building strong professional relationships across the region.
3.2: Develop and maintain effective links with community partners to expand reach and awareness of
services.
4. Volunteer Support
4.1: Act as a key local contact for volunteers.
4.2: Support the recruitment, training and retention of volunteers in collaboration with the wider
team.
5. Administration, Monitoring and Reporting
5.1: Maintain and take ownership of relevant systems and spreadsheets, including those used for:
52: Event planning and delivery
5.3: Marketing and communications
5.4: Contact and engagement tracking
5.5: Professional and family engagement records
5.6: Accurately record interactions with stakeholders, including; families, professionals, champions
and referral partners.
5.7: Monitor and manage posts/content on Facebook family accounts.
6. Quality Assurance and Improvement
6.1: Support quality audits and contribute to continuous improvement processes.
6.2: Collect and review feedback from events and training sessions to inform future development.
2.0 General:
1.1: To be responsible for organising own work agenda, time management and administration
1.2: To keep clear and up to date records on database of activities with families and any ensuing
action
1.3: To promote the on-going work and continued support that 2wish can offer
1.4: To work as part of a team providing support to suddenly bereaved families
1.5: To work alongside support team and maintain a seamless approach to service delivery
1.6: To maintain a high degree of confidentiality in accordance with the charity’s policies
1.7: To show respect and sensitivity for the cultural and religious beliefs of families
1.8: To undertake learning opportunities and seek them out for the team
1.9: To adhere to all company policies and procedures including Safeguarding, Confidentiality,
Health and Safety and Lone Working; and to be proactive in implementing new safe working
practices as appropriate
1.10: To attend weekend and evening community events in support of the charity as necessary
1.11: Participate as and when required in team meetings and one-to-one meetings, and
undertake, as appropriate, courses/training/other developmental activities, which is relevant to
the role
1.12: To contribute to the evaluation and monitoring processes to ensure effectiveness of
services and activities provided
1.13: Contribute on the social media platforms maintained by 2wish
It is the nature of the work that tasks and responsibilities are in many circumstances
unpredictable and varied. All employees are therefore expected to work in a flexible way and
tasks, which are not specifically covered in their job description may have to be undertaken.
This role is subject to a DBS check.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is a varied and rewarding leadership role that combines operational management, people leadership, and business development. You'll play a key part in growing our impact by developing new partnerships, building strong relationships with stakeholders, and expanding both our on-site and outreach programmes.
To succeed in this role, you'll be a confident and adaptable manager who can balance day-to-day operational demands with strategic thinking and creativity. You'll enjoy problem-solving, prioritising competing demands, and managing a diverse workload where no two days are the same.
We're looking for someone who:
• Has strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop teams
• Can foster positive collaboration across teams and functions
• Has experience building and managing partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders
• Brings commercial awareness and business development experience
• Has experience working in the charity, social care, health, or related sectors
We're looking for someone who:
• Has strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop teams
• Can foster positive collaboration across teams and functions
• Has experience building and managing partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders
• Brings commercial awareness and business development experience
• Has experience working in the charity, social care, health, or related sectors
In return, Thrive offers the opportunity to make a genuine difference every day, working with a values-driven charity that transforms lives through gardening and nature. In addition, you’ll be working in a collaborative and supportive organisation at our National Office, set in 3 acres of beautiful grounds.
For more information, please download the Information Pack. For an informal conversation about the role, please email recruitment in
the first instance.
To Apply:
Please email recruitment with your CV and a written statement explaining how you meet the person specification and what you will bring to Thrive.
Closing date for applications: Friday 25 September 2026.
First Stage Interviews: Tuesday 6 October. Second Interviews will be scheduled for the following week.
Are you a social media whizz who loves creating content that people actually want to see? Is digital storytelling your passion, and do you want your creativity to make a real difference?
As MYTIME Young Carers enters an exciting new chapter of growth, we’re on the hunt for a Social Media Executive to help us reach more people, champion young carers, and build a brilliant and supportive online community.
If this sounds like your cup of tea, you might be exactly who we're looking for!
This is an exciting new role within the Marketing & Communications Team, joining at a time of growth.
We’re looking for a full-time Social Media Executive who loves all things digital and wants to grow in a
role with purpose. This will be an important role in expanding MYTIME’s presence online, creating
engaging content and building meaningful communities centred around our young carer support.
As MYTIME works at an increasingly national level, you’ll help us connect with more people, raise
awareness for young carers, support fundraising efforts, and share the impact our work makes. There’s
plenty of room for creativity and a chance to turn our owned channels into a beacon for young carer
information.
The ideal candidate will be someone who loves capturing content in-person as often as possible, has
an organised approach, and gets excited by the chance to grow our channels.
This role will report directly to the Director of Marketing & Communications and will work closely with
colleagues across MYTIME to bring stories, campaigns, and ideas to life across social media. This is a
great opportunity for someone early in their social media career who is creative, enthusiastic, and keen
to learn - with the possibility for career development in the future.
Interview date - Wednesday 7th October 2026
We believe no child’s destiny should be defined by their beginning.
This is a unique opportunity to lead fundraising for a charity at the cusp of substantial growth, with an exceptional track record of recent fundraising success, an engaged base of supporters and significant untapped potential across multiple channels.
Overview
As Director of Fundraising and Development for Plum Village UK, you will provide strategic leadership of the charity’s fundraising at this critical juncture. Building on the successful campaigns that brought our new Being Peace Practice Centre into being, you will lead the development of a sustainable, diversified fundraising operation across donor stewardship, trusts and foundations, regular giving, legacies, and partnerships, to deepen relationships of trust and gratitude with our supporters.
This role is ideal for a fundraising leader, whether from a career fundraising background or another field, who brings strategic capability alongside deep alignment with the Plum Village tradition, where fundraising itself becomes a form of engaged practice in service of mindfulness and community transformation.
Fundraising in the Plum Village tradition is fundamentally relational. It is not a matter of extracting income from a base of supporters, but of deepening the relationships of trust, gratitude and shared purpose with those who make our work possible, in ways that embody the values of the tradition. Done well, fundraising is itself a form of engaged practice. The Director will be expected to lead the function in this spirit.
The role comes with a high level of strategic ownership. An initial fundraising strategy has been developed and shared with trustees, providing a framework of priority channels, governance arrangements and resourcing for the next phase. The new Director will inherit this as a starting frame, and will then be empowered and expected to develop, refine and bring forward a fundraising strategy on their own authority, working closely with the Lead Trustee for Fundraising and presenting proposals to the board as appropriate. The role also carries operational ownership of the fundraising mechanics, including the choice and management of supporting systems, databases and tools.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic leadership of fundraising
Lead PVUK's fundraising strategy, developing and refining the strategic direction, and presenting proposals to the Board for approval and resourcing.
Set, monitor, and report on fundraising targets across all income channels, in agreement with the Lead Trustee for Fundraising and the Board.
Provide regular substantive updates on fundraising at quarterly board meetings, working with the Lead Trustee on the preparation of board-level reporting.
Bring forward analysis and proposals to support the Board in setting wider strategic priorities, including realistic income potential by channel and the investment required to secure it.
Identify and manage risk in the fundraising portfolio, including channel concentration, donor over-reliance, and the sustainability of resourcing.
Donor stewardship and relationship development
Lead the stewardship of PVUK’s existing donors, lenders, and supporters with the depth of care that this base deserves, recognising it as the most precious resource of the fundraising function.
Cultivate and deepen relationships with major donors, including through personal contact, site visits, and tailored communication of impact.
Work with the Chair of Trustees, the Centre Director, and other senior figures on key relationships that require their involvement.
Steward the friendly lender base throughout the lifetime of their loans, maintaining trust and keeping them informed of the charity’s progress.
Build and maintain a culture of gratitude and recognition that appropriately honours the contributions of all supporters.
Income channel development
Lead delivery and growth across PVUK’s priority fundraising channels: donor stewardship, trust and foundation fundraising, regular giving, legacies and Gifts in Wills, and partnerships with values-aligned organisations and networks.
Develop trust and foundation fundraising as a substantial new income stream, including scoping aligned funders, building peer-to-peer introductions, constructing tailored funding propositions, and overseeing high-quality application writing and reporting.
Design and grow a regular giving programme that converts members, retreatants and supporters into ongoing monthly donors.
Develop a structured legacy and Gifts in Wills programme that normalises legacy giving across PVUK’s communications and supports those who wish to leave a Gift in their Will.
Develop partnerships with values-aligned organisations and networks where these support both income generation and the wider reach of PVUK’s work, in close consultation with monastics and trustees.
Operations, systems and budget ownership
Own the operational mechanics of fundraising for PVUK, including the choice, configuration and ongoing management of databases, donor management systems, online giving platforms, and integration with communications tools.
Manage the fundraising budget, including a discretionary supplementary budget for consultancy, training, materials creation, contracted support and light administrative resource, deployed at the Director’s judgement to develop the function effectively.
Maintain accurate, GDPR-compliant supporter records and ensure sound data practices throughout the fundraising operation.
Provide accurate financial reporting on fundraising performance, working with PVUK’s finance function and external accountants as required.
Make the case for additional resourcing where evidence of need supports it, including the possible recruitment of a Fundraising Officer in due course.
Communications and storytelling
Lead the development of compelling fundraising narratives that authentically convey the work of PVUK and the Being Peace Centre to multiple audiences, including major donors, institutional funders, individual supporters and the wider public.
Work closely with the PVUK Communications team on the integration of fundraising communications with the wider communications strategy.
Commission and oversee the production of fundraising materials, including written content, graphic design, video and digital assets, drawing on contracted specialists where appropriate.
Ensure that all fundraising messaging about the Being Peace Practice Centre is agreed with the Centre Director before publication.
Working partnerships across PVUK
Work in close partnership with the Centre Director on all matters relating to Being Peace, with agreed ways of working on messaging, external representation, and any programming commitments made to funders.
Work with the Lead Trustee for Fundraising as primary day-to-day point of contact at board level, supporting the Lead Trustee to hold strategic oversight of fundraising on behalf of the Board.
Work with colleagues across PVUK’s communications, dharma programming, sangha-building and partnership functions, with these working relationships developing naturally in the first months of the role.
Draw on external advisors and specialists as needed for support and assurance, both in technical fundraising disciplines and in sector-specific knowledge.
Engage volunteer capacity from within the community where this can valuably supplement the fundraising operation.
We build mindful communities in the UK inspired by the teachings of ‘Father of Mindfulness’ Thich Nhat Hanh.



About RMC
RMC Charity (RMC) is an established, award winning, regional charity working across the West Midlands to support newcomers and people facing barriers to accessing services, rights and opportunities.
RMC is a growing and ambitious organisation. As we continue to develop our services, partnerships and organisational infrastructure, we are strengthening the support available to our Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and Trustee Board.
We’re also embarking on an exciting new asset development project, which will represent a significant long-term investment in the organisation and its future. The project is expected to be sizeable and complex, involving a range of external parties, professional advisers, stakeholders and partners, and will develop over the next two years and beyond.
The Senior Executive Assistant will play an important role in supporting the SLT through this period, including helping to coordinate meetings, information, actions and communications involving external parties. The postholder will need to bring structure, organisation and follow-through to a lengthy and evolving programme of work, ensuring that key actions, decisions, commitments and deadlines are effectively tracked.
We are looking for an exceptional Senior Executive Assistant who can operate at a senior level, bring structure and discipline to executive and governance activity, and act as a trusted partner to the SLT and the Board.
This is not simply an administrative role. The postholder will be an important part of how RMC ensures that decisions are followed through, commitments are delivered, information flows effectively and governance remains strong.
About the Role:
The Senior Executive Assistant will provide high-level executive, governance and organisational support to the SLT, working particularly closely with the CEO and Executive Director of Services.
The postholder will manage complex diaries and relationships, support the effective operation of the Trustee Board, prepare high-quality information and reports, and ensure that important actions and commitments do not get lost.
The successful candidate will have the confidence to work with senior leaders and managers, trustees and external stakeholders while maintaining the highest levels of discretion and professionalism.
They will also be someone who is prepared to "keep the executives honest" constructively challenging where appropriate, identifying gaps, following up on commitments and helping the SLT to anticipate and manage organisational risks.
Key Responsibilities
1. Trustee Board and Governance
2. Executive Support and Diary Management
3. Executive Information and Reporting
4. Leadership Accountability and Organisational Follow-Through
A key part of this role will be ensuring that decisions and commitments made by the SLT translate into action.
The postholder will;
This will require judgement and courage. The successful candidate must be comfortable respectfully challenging senior colleagues when something does not look right, while maintaining trust and confidentiality.
5. Relationships and Communication
Person Specification:
Essential Criteria:
Executive support and organisation
Governance
Technology
Judgement and Discretion
Suitable Candidate Leadership Profile
We are particularly interested in people who demonstrate the following qualities:
What Success Looks Like
Within this role, success will mean:
The Person We Are Looking For
We are looking for someone who is more than an administrator.
You will be highly organised, but also intellectually curious. You will be discreet, but not passive. You will be supportive of senior leaders, but willing to challenge them. You will be empathetic, but able to remain objective. You will be comfortable dealing with detail while keeping sight of the wider strategic picture.
Above all, you will be someone the SLT and Trustee Board can trust completely, someone who will see what needs to be done, make sure it happens, and have the courage to speak up when it doesn't.
Flexibility
In order to deliver the stated aims of this post, a degree of flexibility is needed and the post holder may be required to perform work not specifically referred to above. This could include data, administrative and/or project support to other cross-organisational departments. Such duties will fall within the scope of the job within the appropriate pay grade. The job description will therefore be subject to periodic review with the post holder to ensure it accurately reflects the duties that are being performed.
Equal Opportunities
We're an equal opportunity employer, which means we'll consider all suitably qualified applicants regardless of gender identity or expression, ethnic origin, nationality, religion or beliefs, age, sexual orientation, disability status or any other protected characteristic. We recruit and develop our people based on merit and their passion for creating better outcomes, and we're committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Closing Date: Thursday 1st October 2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, if we receive enough suitable applications to take forward to interview prior to the published closing date.
Please note that RMC is not a sponsoring organisation. If your visa requires an extension within the next 12 months with the support of employer sponsorship, the RMC Charity is unable to provide assistance with this.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
CAHN is seeking an ambitious, creative and experienced Head of Fundraising & Events to lead our fundraising and events portfolio and help drive the organisation’s next phase of growth.
You will lead fundraising development, identify new income opportunities, build strong relationships with funders, corporate partners and supporters, and deliver high-profile events that generate income, engagement and impact.
Working closely with senior colleagues and external stakeholders, you will combine strategic thinking with hands-on delivery to grow sustainable income, strengthen partnerships and maximise opportunities for CAHN.
We are looking for a confident and results-driven professional with a proven fundraising and events track record, excellent relationship-building skills and a passion for tackling health inequalities affecting Black Caribbean and African communities.
This is your opportunity to use your expertise, creativity and leadership to help create lasting change.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Who we are
We are OUTpatients, the UK’s LGBTIQ+ cancer charity. Proudly led by and for our community, we are here to shake up the system, advocate for equity, and stand up for every LGBTIQ+ person affected by cancer. Our passion to support others is born out of personal experience; we understand what it’s like to not see yourself reflected in the services you use, and feel like you are left in the margins at a time when you most need personalised support. That is why we host peer support, educate healthcare professionals and help to shape national policy so that nobody has to go through cancer alone.
The position
The Chief Medical Officer is one of three new senior leadership roles we're creating alongside our CEO, the first time OUTpatients has built a leadership team of this kind. Although the role is part-time, just one day a week, its influence is not: you'll be the clinical conscience of everything we produce, and a trusted voice for LGBTIQ+ people affected by cancer within the NHS and medical sector.
Working at the intersection of oncology and LGBTIQ+ health equity, you'll ensure our resources, training and peer support are always backed by rigorous clinical evidence and safe, reliable quality standards, giving our small team the confidence to support people safely. Beyond quality assurance, you'll act as a trusted spokesperson and policy voice, opening doors within the NHS and cancer sector that a patient-led charity alone cannot.
Working closely with our incoming Chief Operating Officer and Head of Fundraising & Business Development, and reporting directly to our CEO, your clinical judgement will directly shape how safely and credibly we're able to grow.
To learn more about the role, please read the attached Job Description.
We exist to improve the experiences and outcomes of LGBTIQ+ people living with and beyond cancer.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
How do you protect a landscape loved by millions?
The Peak District National Park Foundation believes the answer lies in bringing together people who care deeply about nature, heritage and access, and inspiring them to take action.
Salary: £55-60k, dependent on experience
Contract terms: Permanent, either full-time or 4 days
Location: Hybrid, with at least 50% of your time spent in the Peak District
Culture: Grown-up, flexible, both life and family-friendly
As the official charity for the Peak District National Park, the Foundation raises funds to restore peatlands and habitats, protect heritage, improve access and help more people experience this remarkable landscape. Having recently surpassed £1 million in annual income and with ambitious plans for the future, we're now looking for a Director to lead the organisation into its next chapter.
This is an opportunity to build on strong foundations, a clear vision, sense of purpose and a growing profile. It's also a role with real breadth.
As Director, you'll lead fundraising, oversee grant-making, develop strategic partnerships, support a committed Board of Trustees and help shape the long-term future of the Foundation. You'll be comfortable thinking about organisational strategy and impact, as well as confident being hands-on and building relationships with donors and funders.
About you
We're open-minded about where you've gained your experience. You may already be leading a smaller organisation, or perhaps you're a senior fundraiser, development or programme leader ready for your first Director opportunity.
What matters is your ability to build trust with stakeholders, communicate a compelling vision and bring people with you.
To thrive in this role, you'll definitely need these essential elements:
Next steps
The Foundation is at an exciting point in its journey. Established in close partnership with the Peak District National Park Authority, it is now building greater independence, broadening its supporter base and developing its role as a trusted route for anyone who wants to invest in the future of the Peak District.
If you're inspired by the idea of combining fundraising, leadership and partnership-building in service of one of the UK's most important landscapes, then we'd love to hear from you.
Interested?
To register your interest, a CV or draft profile is a great first step. You can send this to Amelia Lee at Charity People directly through the application channel on this website, or just get in touch to request the job pack.
Closing date: 9am on Thursday 8th October
Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.
Third-party job sites
We've noticed that there's been an increase in our job ads being published on sites that we have no affiliation with.
Please make sure you only apply via one of our legitimate and verified vacancies. A list of affiliated sites can be found on the Charity People website where you'll also find some useful dos and don'ts when applying for jobs. If you have any concerns or would like to verify a vacancy, please contact Charity People directly.
Job Title:
Salary: £55,000 to £60,000 per annum
Band: Senior Leadership Team
Contract length: Permanent - 35 hours per week, full time. Hybrid working
Location:London-based, primarily Guildhall (EC2V 7HH) and Bow Lock (E3 3JY), with work across Thames21 project locations.
Responsible to: Chief Executive
Responsible for: Improving Rivers Managers and associated staff.
About Thames21:
Thames21 is an environmental charity which works across London and the Thames Basin to deliver high-impact nature-based solutions to the climate and biodiversity crisis by restoring rivers, whilst also connecting communities to their local green-blue spaces and inspiring long-term stewardship of them.
Diversity at Thames21
Thames21 is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve across London and the Thames Basin. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, and lived experiences.
Purpose of the role
Lead and grow Thames21’s Improving Rivers Team to deliver high-quality river restoration, catchment management and environmental evidence programmes, while contributing to organisational growth and strategic partnerships.
Key relationships
Chief Executive and Senior Management Team, Improving Rivers Managers, Finance, Fundraising/Partnerships, external partners including the Environment Agency, water companies, local authorities, GLA and mayoral bodies, academic partners, environmental NGOs and funders.
Main duties and responsibilities
1) Strategic leadership & portfolio growth
· Lead the strategic development of the Improving Rivers portfolio, setting clear objectives and outcomes aligned to Thames21’s plan (2023–2028).
· As a member of the Senior Management Team, contribute to organisational strategy, financial sustainability, risk management and culture across Thames21.
· Translate strategy into actionable delivery plans with measurable targets and milestones.
· Embed effective monitoring & evaluation across projects and programmes to evidence impact and inform decision‑making.
· Contributing to organisational risk management and business planning.
· Champion innovation and the use of environmental/nature finance mechanisms where appropriate to scale delivery.
2) Programme oversight, quality & compliance
· Direct and support Improving Rivers Managers to deliver a coherent programme of work across river restoration, evidence, and catchment partnerships.
· Enable cross‑team collaboration (with the Engagement & Learning Team and others) to maximise multiple benefits for people and nature.
· Ensure robust project governance, risk management and reporting. Oversee Health & Safety and CDM compliance and safe systems of work.
· Act as one of the Duty Senior Managers in the weekend cover rota
· Establish and maintain portfolio measurement indices and ensure timely data entry into Thames21 platforms.
3) People leadership & culture
· Lead, motivate and develop Improving Rivers Managers; set clear objectives, undertake regular 1:1s, appraisals and PDPs.
· Foster an inclusive, collaborative and high‑performance culture. Ensure staff wellbeing and professional development.
· Plan and chair IR team and managers’ meetings. Maintain effective internal communications and knowledge‑sharing (e.g., SharePoint).
4) Finance, funding & organisational development
· Hold delegated authority for budget setting and expenditure sign‑off within the portfolio. Ensure accurate financial planning, management and reporting.
· Support development of high‑quality bids and funding agreements (statutory, partnership and philanthropic), including large strategic bids and environmental market opportunities by providing technical expertise, programme design and partner engagement.
· Work with Finance and Fundraising to strengthen controls, update relevant policies/processes, and ensure audit‑ready documentation.
· Contribute to whole‑organisation systems, policies and processes that support effective delivery and financial resilience.
6) External relations & advocacy
· Represent Thames21 with senior stakeholders (e.g., Environment Agency, water companies, GLA/mayoral teams, local authorities, eNGOs, funders, corporate partners and the Rivers Trust).
· Build and steward strategic partnerships and alliances that enable delivery at scale and unlock new funding and policy influence.
· Act as a confident spokesperson for Thames21 when required.
7) Reporting, governance & data
· Ensure timely and accurate portfolio reporting for SMT and Board, including dashboards/infographics and risk register updates.
· Promote effective use of organisational systems and data within the team to improve efficiency and data quality.
Key performance indicators (portfolio‑level)
· Water quality - monitoring & investigation: improved evidence base and prioritisation of pollution sources for resolution.
· Improving water quality - implementation of evidence‑based actions at catchment scale.
· Flows - natural flood management outcomes and strengthened drought/low‑flow resilience.
· River/wetland enhancement, restoration & connectivity - ecological condition and connectivity improved.
· Catchment‑based approach - strengthened hosting and partnership effectiveness.
Other Duties
This job description cannot cover every issue or task that may arise within Thames21. At various times the post-holder will be directed to carry out other reasonable duties in support of other Thames21 activities that are consistent with those in this Job Description. For more information and how to apply
Additional Information
· The role may require occasional evening and weekend work. Travel across London and the Thames Basin as needed.
· 25 days annual leave (plus public holidays) and office closure between Christmas and New Year; flexitime/TOIL.
· Auto‑enrolment workplace pension with NEST with 8% employer contribution
· Laptop and mobile phone for company use; season‑ticket/bike loan (interest‑free).
· 24/7 access to our employee assistance programme.
Please follow thw application instructions later on in the Charity Job application process 5pm on Friday 2 October 2026. Please mark the reference of your application (HIR0926).
We appreciate the time you will have taken to apply to this role, and we do appreciate that it is disconcerting when you don’t hear back from a role you have applied for. However, due to the high number of applications we expect to receive,we are unable respond to or give feedback on individual applications, but we do want to be able manage expectations. Therefore, if you do not hear from us within 4 weeks of the closing date, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion.
Thames21 aims to improve the quality of life of people in the community by enhancing waterway environments.


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
UK Youth has launched an ambitious new strategy to widen the reach and deepen the impact of youth work and outdoor learning. At the heart of that strategy is a clear commitment: We Back Youth Work Leaders.
As our new Head of Network Development, you will turn that commitment into action.
You will lead the development and delivery of a powerful national offer that equips youth work leaders with the investment, support, relationships and connections they need to thrive. This includes leading our Grants+ approach—combining significant, multi-year grant funding with tailored organisational-development support—and developing partnerships that strengthen youth sector infrastructure locally, regionally and across the UK nations.
This role is about much more than managing a network. We are evolving towards a more relational way of working: listening deeply to youth-work leaders, understanding the realities they face, involving them in shaping our work and building relationships founded on trust, respect and shared purpose. You will ensure organisations can access the right support, expertise and opportunities—and that their insight continually shapes UK Youth’s work.
You will have the opportunity to lead the delivery of the £13 million UK Youth Fund, strengthen the resilience and effectiveness of grassroots youth organisations, and help create a more connected and equitable system of support for the wider sector.
We are looking for someone with deep knowledge and experience of youth work and the youth sector—someone who can talk the talk and walk the walk with youth organisation leaders. You will bring substantial experience of the youth work sector and infrastructure, organisational development and capacity building, alongside the strategic and operational leadership needed to deliver significant grant-making activity and complex partnerships.
You will be an inclusive and credible leader who can turn ambitious strategy into excellent delivery, bring people and organisations together, and remain focused on what youth work leaders need to succeed.
Across the country, youth workers are changing—and often saving—young lives. This is your opportunity to ensure the people and organisations doing that vital work have the investment, infrastructure and support they deserve.
Purpose of the job
The Head of Network Development will lead the operationalisation of UK Youth’s new We Back Youth Work Leaders strategic pillar. The role will turn our ambition to equip youth-work leaders with the skills, networks and confidence to deliver exceptional support into a coherent network development offer—leading our Grants+ approach of multi-year funding alongside tailored organisational development, and strengthening youth-sector infrastructure locally, regionally and across the UK nations.
Central to the role will be embedding UK Youth’s increasingly relational approach to its network: building trusted, mutually beneficial relationships with youth-work leaders; listening to and understanding their needs; involving them in shaping our support and connecting organisations to the right opportunities, expertise and infrastructure. Reporting to the Director of Network Delivery, the postholder will be responsible for translating this strategic ambition into high-quality, well-governed delivery, while ensuring that learning and insight from the network continually improve our work and contribute to securing sustainable investment in youth work and outdoor learning.
Why work at UK Youth?
Every young person deserves a youth worker. UK Youth exists to make that a reality. Our vision is a society that backs every young person - through each spark, struggle and success.
As the UK’s national infrastructure body for youth work, we strengthen and champion a diverse network of youth organisations, unlock investment, shape policy and build the evidence base for what works. At a time of growing need and inequality of access, our work has never been more important.
We are entering an exciting new phase of our strategy - focused on long-term resilience, income diversification and a transformational Capital Appeal to develop Avon Tyrrell as a national centre of excellence for outdoor learning. Joining UK Youth means being part of an ambitious, impact-driven organisation committed to strengthening youth work for generations to come.
Key responsibilities
Portfolio leadership and delivery
Lead the strategic and operational delivery of UK Youth’s network development portfolio, translating organisational strategy and funded commitments into clear plans, outcomes, budgets, milestones and accountabilities.
Ensure programmes and services are delivered to a high standard, on time and within budget, with effective governance, performance management, risk control and escalation to the Director of Network Delivery.
Mobilise new initiatives and partnerships, establishing proportionate delivery models, systems, teams and governance arrangements.
Lead continuous improvement across the portfolio, responding effectively to evidence, partner feedback, changing needs and the external environment.
Be a champion of UK Youth’s network across all of UK Youth’s work.
Grant making and organisational development
Lead the delivery of UK Youth’s significant, multi-year grant-making portfolio, including the £13 million UK Youth Fund, ensuring responsible stewardship of charitable and restricted funds.
Ensure effective management of the full grant lifecycle, including programme design, application and assessment, due diligence, decision-making, contracting, payments, monitoring, reporting, complaints and closure.
Maintain robust and proportionate grant governance, financial controls, safeguarding assurance, risk management, data quality and compliance with funder and regulatory requirements.
Lead an integrated organisational development offer alongside grant funding, enabling smaller youth and outdoor learning organisations to strengthen their financial sustainability, leadership, governance, workforce and resilience.
Embed open, trusting, accessible and equitable grant-making practice, reducing unnecessary barriers while maintaining appropriate accountability.
Network and sector infrastructure support
Develop and deliver UK Youth’s approach to engaging, connecting and supporting our national network, informed by the needs and experiences of youth work leaders and organisations.
Create opportunities for peer learning, collaboration, knowledge exchange and access to relevant support across the network.
Lead major initiatives that strengthen youth sector infrastructure locally, regionally and nationally, working with partners to improve the consistency, coordination and accessibility of support.
Support regional and national partners to understand need, develop shared plans and approaches, and deliver locally relevant infrastructure and organisational support.
Work with the Communications Team and relevant colleagues to ensure network communications are timely, accessible, coordinated and purposeful.
Experience we're after
Substantial leadership experience within the youth sector, grounded in an in-depth understanding of youth work practice, youth work leadership and the realities facing youth organisations and their leaders.
Experience of leading a complex, multi-year network development or comparable portfolio, translating strategy and funded commitments into successful delivery and managing significant budgets and risks.
Experience of leading substantial grant making or onward funding activity, including governance, due diligence, financial oversight, risk and accountability.
Substantial organisational development and capacity building experience, including diagnosing organisational needs and designing practical support that strengthens leadership, governance, financial sustainability, workforce and resilience.
Experience of developing networks, partnerships or infrastructure across multiple organisations, regions or systems, with demonstrable credibility among youth organisation leaders.
What we can offer you
We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance, excellent learning and development opportunities and vibrant organisational culture:
Flexible/Agile Working
27 days annual leave (24 days + 3 days winter closure) plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)
Funded training provided in; Safeguarding, GDPR, Information and Cyber Security & Equality & Diversity
Other training available in support of your personal and professional development
Pension scheme (currently UK Youth match employee contributions up to 5%)
Membership of our life insurance scheme which would pay-out up to 4 times your salary
Employee Assistance Programme to support employees both professionally and personally
20% discount off bookings at Avon Tyrrell, our New Forest Outdoor Centre, including camping, lodges and outdoor activities.
IT equipment provided for the duration of contract
CycleScheme and TechScheme
How to apply
If you would like to be considered for this fantastic opportunity, please complete an application via our completely anonymised recruitment system provided by Applied which looks to create a fair and unbiased application process for all. Scroll to the top of the page and start your application.
Closing date: 29th September 2026 at 09:00
Provisional First Stage Interview Dates: 5th & 6th October 2026
Provisional Final Stage Interview Dates (in person): 9th October 2026
As this role involves working in a regulated environment with young people, any offer will be conditional to satisfactory background checks, which include criminal record check and employment reference.
Please note CVs will be reviewed as the first stage of the recruitment process. Candidates who are shortlisted following the CV review will then have their sift questions assessed. Only candidates who meet the requirements at both stages will progress further in the recruitment process.
UK Youth is a leading charity with a vision that all young people are equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Support, Guide and Lead Services That Change Lives
This is your opportunity to provide leadership to services that make a real difference to people, families and communities across Lancashire. Join a values-led organisation where your leadership will help shape services, support talented teams, and create positive, lasting change.
At New Era North West, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive. For over 40 years, we have worked alongside children, young people, adults and families to reduce inequality, improve wellbeing, increase opportunities and build stronger communities. Through our work in employment, skills and education, health and wellbeing, and family and community services, we help people overcome challenges, build resilience and achieve their potential.
As our Charitable Service Lead, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across our charitable services, ensuring they remain high quality, responsive and focused on delivering meaningful outcomes. Working closely with the CEO, Operations Manager and Leadership Team, you will provide direction, guidance and support to service managers and practitioners, enabling them to deliver high-quality services that achieve positive outcomes for the people and communities we serve. You'll play a key role in developing confident, capable teams, fostering a positive and supportive culture, and ensuring our services continue to make a lasting difference across Lancashire.
This role offers the opportunity to influence the future direction of a respected and growing organisation. You'll lead and support passionate teams, develop strong partnerships, and help create a positive workplace culture where people feel valued, supported and empowered to do their best work. We're looking for someone who can inspire others, bring people together, and balance strategic thinking with a practical approach to leadership.
What We Offer
If you are passionate about creating opportunities, supporting communities and leading services that deliver real social impact, we'd love to hear from you. Join us and help challenge inequality, strengthen communities and transform lives.
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Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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