Public engagement officer jobs in Woolwich, greater london

Purpose of the Role:

The Senior Research, Policy and Influencing Manager will play a pivotal role in driving Cerebra’s mission to influence national and local policy and practice. You will lead on the translation of research into actionable policy recommendations, develop strategic partnerships, advocate for systemic change and influence, persuade and engage with policy makers to improve outcomes for children with neurological conditions and their families. Alongside this you will work with the Research and Information team on Cerebra’s research contracts and the development and dissemination of information.

This is a senior role requiring strategic vision, strong analytical and communication skills, and an ability to build influence across government, academia, and the third sector.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

1. Policy and Influencing  

• Identify opportunities to influence national and local policy agendas, including legislation, guidance, and funding priorities related to childhood disability and neurological conditions.
• Develop accessible and compelling policy briefings, consultation responses, reports, speeches, and presentations for a range of stakeholders, including MPs, government officials, sector partners and the public.
• Monitor policy developments across the neuro-diverse landscape and lead on timely, evidence-led responses.
• Analyse data, trends and policy developments to produce insights and recommendations.
• Translate complex ideas into clear, persuasive communications that support positive change.
• Ensure our policy positions reflect the real experiences and insights of the neuro-diverse children and families we support.
• Develop and deliver Cerebra’s policy and influencing strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and research priorities.
• Develop and deliver influencing campaigns in partnership with Communications team.
• Work closely with the Communications Team by contributing to the drafting of responses to media enquiries on our policy and influencing work and act as the media contact if required.
• Liaise with the Legal Rights Team to assess the impact of current or proposed policies in terms of their actual or potential effects on children with neurological conditions at both national and local levels, and for their input into consultation responses.

2. Engagement and Relationship Building

• Build and maintain strong strategic relationships with decision-makers across government departments, policymakers, NHS bodies, local authorities, professional associations, and sector partners.
• Represent Cerebra at meetings and events, including engaging with MPs, civil servants, policy forums, advisory groups, and cross-sector coalitions and other key influencers, or brief the CEO or Directors if attending.
• Work closely with internal teams to ensure our policy and influencing work is grounded in practice and informed by those delivering services.
• Work closely with the Communications Team to ensure consistent, impactful messaging.

3. Research and Information

• With one of our Lead Research Officers leading, you will oversee the tendering process and delivery of our research contracts.
• Working with our Information Development Officer to ensure that we maintain our PIF Tick accreditation for our information resources.
• Carry out high-quality research and analysis.
• Use findings from Cerebra-funded and external research to produce policy briefs, consultation responses, and evidence-based recommendations.
• Alongside our Lead Research Officers carry out horizon scanning to identify emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in child health, neurodiversity, and public service delivery.

4. Budgeting, monitoring and forecasting

• Working with the team and Director to set income and expenditure budgets for Corporate, Philanthropy, Legacy and Trust & Foundations to assist with any funding applications.
• Monitoring and reporting on income and expenditure and KPIs throughout the year.
• Providing quarterly income and expenditure re-forecasts.
• Ensuring all relevant information is recorded in line with charity, fundraising and data legislation and best practice.

5. Line Management

• Line management responsibilities for a small team, currently comprising of 3 staff.
• Be responsible for the day-to-day management of the team.
• Complete regular supervision and team meetings.
• Provide effective performance management to the team.
• Promote a positive and inclusive team culture aligned with Cerebra’s values.

6. General

• Monitor and evaluate the impact the areas of work that leading on.
• Support collaboration across the different Cerebra teams.
• Experience using Client Relationship Management (CRM) systems or similar digital tools for recording and tracking work.
• Uphold Cerebra’s Data Protection Policy and all relevant confidentiality and safeguarding policies.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties in line with the needs of the team and organisation.

Please see attached job description for person specification.

The Information & Advice Service is highly regarded within the London Borough of Merton and accredited with the Advice Quality Standard (AQS) and Age UK Quality Advice Standard (QAS). We have developed the service over the last five years to provide high quality advice for older people to enable them to live more healthily, happily and independently in later life.

In April 2025 – March 2026 the service worked with over 1,500 older adults across a range of issues including money and benefits, health, housing and care. During this time, we assisted older adults to generate over £820,535 of previously unclaimed benefits and make informed choices about their lives.

The role involves providing initial information and guidance, primarily over the phone, assessing need and urgency, and ensuring clients are directed to the most appropriate support.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Context and Purpose of the Role

After five years of dedicated leadership, GROW’s Managing Director is moving on. We are now seeking an exceptional, values-led leader to guide GROW through the next phase of our 2030 strategy and help realise our ambition to become a movement-shaping force within agroecology.

GROW is entering a pivotal stage of growth. Our focus now is on strengthening team capacity, centring community voice, developing pathways to leadership and employment, deepening hyper-local networks, and contributing more visibly to the agroecology sector.

With strong financial foundations, a committed team, and a long-standing partnership with a progressive secondary school, this is a rare opportunity to lead an organisation uniquely positioned at the intersection of farming, education, and community action.

The Managing Director will provide clear strategic direction and overall leadership, ensuring GROW remains responsibly-governed, financially resilient, and grounded in its agroecological values. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, they will nurture and inspire a multidisciplinary team of 16 employees and freelancers, strengthen key partnerships, and guide the organisation’s continued development and impact.

Job Title: Managing Director
Reports to: Board of Trustees
Salary: £48,000-£53,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full Time, 40 hours per week (9am-5pm with 1-hour paid lunch break)
Location: Hybrid. Minimum 3 days a week on site at The Totteridge Academy, Barnet Lane, N20 8AZ (more days on site expected for the first 3-6 months)
Pension: GROW participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 30% off all GROW Farm produce, annual training budget, subsidised lunches, and a generous holiday allowance of 28 days plus bank holidays.
Probation period: 6 months

GROW is a site-based organisation, and our farm sits at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for a Managing Director who is as comfortable talking with students, volunteers and visitors as they are shaping strategy and leading the organisation’s future. This is a role for a thoughtful, adaptable and hands-on leader who can hold the big picture while staying closely connected to our farm, outdoor programmes and the communities we work alongside.

Leadership at GROW is practical, relational and rooted in place. One day you might be gathering feedback from our Student Board of Advisors, listening to how our programmes are working for the young people who shape them. The next, you might be at the farm stall chatting with local community members selling jars of GROW’s homemade pickles. The Managing Director helps ensure that these everyday moments remain central to the organisation.

The successful candidate will lead a small, committed team of 16 staff, nurturing a culture that is collaborative, knowledgeable and grounded in our values. They will guide GROW’s strategic direction while staying attentive to the daily rhythms of farm and school life that make it a vibrant place for learning, growing and connection. 

Trustees recognise the breadth of this role and are committed to strengthening the organisation’s operational capacity. An early priority for the new Managing Director will be to shape and secure support for an additional capacity-building role that complements their leadership and enables GROW to thrive in the years ahead.

1. Strategy, Governance & Risk

• Provide overall leadership and strategic development of the charity.
• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Trustees quarterly.
• Ensure charity policies and legal guidelines are up to date, clearly communicated, and embedded in everyday culture.
• Ensure statutory filings (e.g. Charity Commission, Companies House) are accurate and timely.
• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, including charity law, employment law, data protection, health & safety, safeguarding, and environmental regulations.
• Lead on crisis management and serious incident reporting.
• Prepare high-quality written reports for Board and sub-committee meetings.
• Advise Trustees on strategic opportunities, risks, and sector trends. Support Trustee recruitment, induction, and development.
• Enable Trustees to fulfil their governance responsibilities effectively.
• Engage relevant professional expertise where appropriate to support decision making. 

2. Operations, Education & Farm

• Ensure operational resilience, deputising and covering critical functions during staff absence.
• Work closely with Education Leads to develop the quality of our educational
• programmes, ensuring they align with agroecological principles.
• Ensure thorough Risk Assessments are completed, communicated, and
• implemented for all activities and programmes.
• Support the income generation strategy for the Farm.
• Support the Farm Manager with infrastructure development, including planning permission applications.

3. Finance & Fundraising

• Act as the main point of contact for the charity’s accountants.
• Develop and oversee organisational budgets, leading annual budget-setting and ongoing monthly, quarterly, and forecast reviews.
• Develop and deliver the annual income generation and fundraising strategy with the Head of Fundraising.
• Oversee effective impact reporting with the Head of Fundraising.
• Develop and implement plans to improve cost-efficiency.
• Support the completion of large and complex fundraising bids.

4. Partnerships

• Act as the main point of contact for GROW’s key partner, The Totteridge Academy (TTA), and the Academy Trust, United Learning, to ensure the partnership is effective and positive.
• Build and develop partnerships with schools, youth services, local authority, community growing networks and organisations to support the long-term development of educational programmes and participant recruitment and local environmental impact.

5. Marketing & Profile

• Oversee the charity’s overall marketing and communications strategy.
• Retain strategic oversight of all core marketing and communications, including the press opportunities, charity’s website, printed materials, and promotional content, ensuring that GROW’s voice, values, and impact are communicated clearly and consistently.
• Build and enhance the charity’s public profile through events, speaking engagements, and external representation.

6. People, HR & Safeguarding

• Manage and support the team to effectively perform their roles and develop within GROW, ensuring staff are fully trained and confident with organisational policies.
• Lead the recruitment and onboarding of all staff in line with Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and Safeguarding policies, and Safer Recruitment best practice.
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead and ensure compliance with any safeguarding requirements set by partner school, The Totteridge Academy.
• Be rigorously mindful of child safeguarding at all times, embedding safeguarding policies in everyday culture and remain up to date with relevant legislation and training.
• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.
• Develop progressive internal systems, policies, and training that promote a fair, inclusive, and supportive workplace, grounded in our agroecological principles.
• Ensuring the organisation is GDPR compliant and acts as the Data Protection Lead.

7. Values & Culture

• Act as a role model for GROW’s guiding agroecological principles and organisational values in all internal and external relationships.
• Create a supportive, nurturing, high-trust culture in which staff and freelancers can thrive.
• Champion a culture of reflection, evaluation, and continuous improvement.
• Centre community voice in decision making, governance, and organisational strategy

Direct reports:
Farm Manager
TTA Education Lead
Senior Facilitator
Head of Fundraising
Freelance Programme Leads

This job description is not exhaustive; as a small and evolving charity, flexibility is essential and all staff are expected to take a hands-on approach and support wider organisational needs where required.
 

Person Specification

Essential Personal Qualities

• Strong alignment with GROW’s mission, agroecological principles, and organisational values.
• Ability to lead and nurture a strong, cohesive, and collaborative team intuitively
• and with empathy.
• Resilient and adaptable.
• Calm under pressure.
• Collaborative by nature and solution-focussed in approach.
• Strong commitment to inclusive working practices and social justice.

Essential Experience

• Significant experience working in a Senior Leadership role within a not-for-profit,
• education, and/or environmental sectors.
• Experience of building and maintaining successful partnership work, for example
• with farms, schools, local authorities, funders, and/or community organisations.
• Significant experience of managing and developing staff and freelancers in a
• small team.
• Proven ability to lead organisational strategy and translate it into operational plans.
• Experience working with, and reporting to, a Board or governing body.
• Experience of financial management, including budgets, forecasting, and working with accountants.
• Track record in contributing to fundraising, including securing major bids.
• Strong understanding of governance, compliance, and risk in a regulated environment.
• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth, or community context.
• Understanding of legal, progressive and inclusive HR systems and policies.
• Ability to develop and oversee marketing and communications that clearly articulate organisational mission, build community engagement and support financial sustainability.
• Demonstrable experience handling and reviewing legal documentation, including contracts, leases, and formal agreements.

Essential Skills & Abilities

• Strategic thinker, able to see and drive forward the “big picture” while managing operational detail.
• Skilled and inclusive people manager, able to motivate, develop, and challenge others.
• Excellent, adaptable and confident communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise and manage a broad and competing workload.
• Effective decision-making and ability to work independently with accountability.
• Strong relationship-builder with credibility across diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to lead teams through change and uncertainty.
• Strong organisational and administrative capability.
• Sound judgement and a high level of discretion when handling confidential or sensitive matters.

Desirable

• Experience or knowledge of agroecological farming.
• Experience working with local councils, schools, academy trusts, and authorities.
• Knowledge of charity and regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of the local Barnet area.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

At GROW we’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All qualified and eligible applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, gender identity or expression, race, national origin, religion or belief,
disability, age, sexual orientation or pregnancy and maternity. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and identities, especially those who are under-represented in the charity and food growing sectors. This includes, but is not limited to, people from the global majority, neurodivergent individuals, and those with a range of lived experiences. 

We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of our community and brings a rich mix of perspectives, skills, cultures, and ways of thinking.

Prostate Cancer Research exists to honour the men and families who have been through things no family should have to go through, and to work for a future where no one needs to fear a prostate cancer diagnosis. 

We are always working to provide resources to help, support and empower patients. Giving them the information they need to make better choices about their treatment, while working to identify and target specific unmet needs in the prostate cancer ecosystem, such as racial inequality and bone metastasis. 

Our dedicated staff team is the key to our success, expanding the amount of research that we fund five times over in four years. PCR won the Change Project of the year award in 2023 and has been shortlisted for the following awards for our Real Talk campaign in 2025: 

• Charity Times Award- PR Team of the Year 
• Third Sector Award- Best Large Charity Film 
• Third Sector Award- Communications Campaign of The Year 
• ​Third Sector Awards- Large Corporate Partnership of the Year 

Overview

Prostate Cancer Research (PCR) is seeking a highly organised and proactive Patient Engagement & Programme Officer to support the delivery of several key patient-focused initiatives, including the infopool and Prostate Progress. 

This role will sit within the Patient Projects team, providing operational, administrative, and patient engagement support across a range of programmes designed to support and empower men affected by prostate cancer. 

The postholder will play a critical role in ensuring the smooth delivery of patient communications, programme logistics, digital resource management, and recruitment support for the national Prostate Progress research platform. 

The role will be split approximately 50% supporting Prostate Progress recruitment and patient engagement activities, and 50% supporting wider programmes. 

Key Responsibilities 

Prostate Progress – Patient Recruitment & Support 

Provide support to patients and participants, particularly during the upcoming national recruitment campaigns delivered with NHS DigiTrials. 

Responsibilities include: 

• Managing and triaging incoming emails and phone enquiries from patients responding to recruitment invitations or having issues using the platform 
• Responding to patient queries using approved FAQ materials and support documentation 
• Escalating complex queries or complaints to appropriate internal teams 
• Liaising with our technical support team to resolve participant platform issues and triaging issues accordingly 
• Supporting the development and refinement of participant support materials and FAQs 
• Maintaining clear records of common issues, feedback, and participant concerns 
• Supporting on the development and delivery of Prostate Progress’ engagement and stewardship plan, ensuring they receive regular communications which maximise engagement and ensure retention 
• Ensuring all communications provide a professional, supportive and patient-centred experience 

Additional helpful responsibilities could include: 

• Monitoring recruitment engagement metrics and identifying emerging support issues 
• Flagging trends in patient questions that may require updated communications 
• Supporting participant follow-up communications where appropriate 

The Infopool 

Support the Head of Health Information in maintaining and improving the infopool, PCR’s digital patient information platform. 

Responsibilities include: 

• Managing routine website administration, including checking links, updating resources and uploading new content and materials 
• Ensuring patient resources remain accurate, current and accessible 
• Supporting the administration of Google Analytics and Hotjar surveys 
• Assisting with analysis of website usage data and patient feedback 
• Analysing simple infopool survey feedback data coming from three clinical sites.
• Liaising with the clinical teams to ensure that they have all the materials they need. 
• Supporting the maintenance and organisation of resource libraries and toolkits 
• Assisting with preparation for our annual Patient Information Forum (PIF) TICK reaccreditation.
• Ensuring that documentation is up to date, all clinician sign-offs are complete and accreditation forms are submitted on time. Processing invoices – sending to finance and completing budget sheets.
• Working with other teams to identify opportunities to use infopool patient stories more widely, including supporting case study development and ensuring appropriate permissions are obtained for reuse across PCR activities. 

Programme Administration & Operations 

Provide operational and administrative support to the wider Patient Projects team. Responsibilities include: 

Financial & Reporting Support 

• Processing invoices and submitting them to finance 
• Logging expenditure accurately within programme budget trackers 
• Supporting end-of-month reconciliation and reporting checks 

Materials & Resource Management 

Supporting the Senior Programme Manager in: 

• Managing stock levels for printed materials and patient resources 
• Coordinating ordering and reprinting of materials 
• Monitoring and maintaining inventory 
• Responding to general materials queries 

Administrative Coordination 

• Maintaining and updating the hospital adoption tracker
• Supporting shared inbox queries where required 
• Providing administrative support across the Patient Projects team 

Event & Conference Support 

Supporting the Senior Programme Manager and Health Equity Manager with PCR’s presence at conferences, meetings, and events and organisation of patient workshops and focus groups.

Responsibilities may include: 

• Coordinating logistics for event materials and shipments 
• Researching and booking suitable venues for workshops and arranging refreshments.
• Arranging online focus groups – liaising with patients and sending out pre-group materials.
• Processing patient expenses following focus groups and workshops. 
• Booking courier collections and managing delivery returns 
• Researching and booking suitable accommodation near conference venues 
• Supporting preparation of materials for events and exhibitions 

Providing on-site support when required, including: 

• Setting up conference stands 
• Managing printed materials and stock 
• Supporting delegate sign-ups 
• Directing queries to appropriate team members 
• Taking minutes at workshops and focus groups. 

Person Specification 

We are looking for someone who is: 

• Highly organised with strong administrative skills
• Comfortable managing multiple priorities
• Confident communicating with patients in a professional and empathetic manner 
• Digitally confident and comfortable managing web platforms and analytics tools 
• Detail-oriented with strong record keeping and data management skills 
• Proactive and able to work independently within a hybrid team environment 

Desirable experience includes: 

• Experience working in healthcare, research, or charity sectors 
• Familiarity with CRM systems, website CMS platform Drupal, and online analytics tools such as Google Analytics and Hotjar 
• Experience handling customer or patient enquiries 

For more information about the role, please contact our Head of Health Information, Sara Nelson for an informal chat. You can find contact details in the full job description attached. 

For more information about our organisation and what we do, visit the Prostate Cancer Research website, The Prostate Progress webpage, and the PCR online patient resource, The Infopool 

PCR is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of their race, gender, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age. 

This is a genuinely exciting time to join our growing team and make a real difference to people affected by gyanecological cancers.

As our Senior Digital Marketing Officer you will be responsible for boosting our income through online engagement, marketing and stewardship. The role includes responsibility for delivering paid advertising across various platforms (currently META, PPC, Reddit and TikTok) driving income through direct gifts, challenge event participation and other income generation activities.

Writing, designing and delivering our supporter emails, and overall supporter journeys, is also a key component of the role, boosting digital engagement with a view to driving additional income over time.

When it comes to this work, you'll be our lead for this area internally but you'll also have the support of our digital agency, who we maintain a close working relationship with, the wider fundraising team and the organisation as a whole. You will also benefit from several years of testing, insight gathering and proven results to build upon.

No formal qualifications are needed and charity sector experience is not a requirement. We encourage everyone with the appropriate skills, experience and potential to apply.

The Fawcett Society is the UK’s leading membership charity campaigning for women’s rights.

We are recruiting a Head of Campaigns & Influence to lead our public campaigning and movement-building work. This is a senior role for someone who can turn build campaigns that cut through, mobilising supporters and communities, raising awareness of the most pressing issues facing women today, and helping shape the political conditions for progress on women’s rights.

This role drives how Fawcett builds our influence & impact. It brings together campaigning, public affairs, supporter mobilisation and leadership, with a strong focus on turning evidence and policy priorities into clear, credible and compelling public asks.

About the role

The Head of Campaigns & Influence will lead the development and delivery of Fawcett’s campaigning strategy, ensuring our work is politically sharp, driven by women's experiences, and capable of building momentum over time.

You will work across campaigns, public affairs, digital and membership, helping ensure that our external work is joined up, strategic and effective. You will also play a key role in connecting our national influencing work with the energy, insight and experience of our members, supporters and communities.

This is a senior leadership role, reporting to the Chief Executive and contributing to wider organisational planning and decision-making. You will line manage campaigning capacity, help shape a collaborative and inclusive culture, and support Fawcett to grow its public impact over the coming years.

You would be joining a small but ambitious team, with the opportunity to shape both the work itself and how we work together. At the moment, the team is small, which means this role will suit someone who is comfortable leading in a hands-on way while supporting others to grow. We expect to strengthen our campaigning capacity over time, so there is real scope to help shape the next phase of that development.

What you will do

• Lead and deliver an integrated campaigns strategy aligned to Fawcett’s priorities and mission.
• Turn research and policy positions into clear, compelling and politically credible campaign narratives and asks.
• Build momentum by mobilising members, supporters and people with lived experience in meaningful and effective ways.
• Lead Fawcett’s cross-party public affairs approach and represent the organisation in external meetings, coalitions and forums.
• Work closely across campaigns, communications, digital, membership and income generation to strengthen impact and visibility.
• Define success measures for campaigns and improve how we understand and evidence our impact.
• Line manage and support staff through inclusive, accountable and values-led leadership.
• Contribute to senior leadership planning, organisational development and wider strategic decision-making.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• Experience of leading and delivering campaigns, advocacy or movement-building work designed to achieve social, political or cultural change.
• Experience of mobilising supporters, communities and/or people with lived experience in ways that strengthen campaigns, projects or organisational work.
• Experience of influencing political, institutional or other decision-makers, including translating evidence, policy positions or strategic objectives into clear and credible public asks.
• Previous line management experience, with evidence of supporting and developing others well through inclusive, accountable and values-led leadership.
• A strong commitment to women’s rights and tackling misogyny, with a clear understanding of intersectional feminist and anti-racist practice.
• Strong strategic judgement and the ability to work effectively in politically sensitive or fast-moving contexts.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across different teams and audiences.

Encouragement to apply

We know that women and people from marginalised backgrounds are less likely to apply for roles unless they meet every single criterion listed. If this role excites you and you feel you could do it well, we strongly encourage you to apply even if you do not meet 100% of the requirements.

Department: COO’s Office
Contract type: Permanent
Salary: Up to £115,000 per annum
Location: Home Based (UK wide travel as required)
Reports To: Chief Executive and Council Chair

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to help lead the organisation through the next phase of its development. Reporting to the Chief Executive and Council Chair, Phil Garrigan, and working closely with the Board of Trustees, the COO will play a critical role in driving organisational transformation and delivery. This will ensure NFCC is well positioned to achieve its ambitious new three-year strategy and delivery plan, including preparations for the proposed College of Fire and Rescue in 2029.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a professional, responsive and agile organisation that is focused on making a real difference to public safety.

NFCC is a charity and membership organisation dedicated to making communities safer by providing national leadership, coordination and professional expertise across UK fire and rescue services. Working at NFCC offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to public safety, national resilience and the continuous improvement of an essential public service.

Operating at the intersection of operational practice, policy, assurance and system leadership, NFCC supports fire and rescue services to collaborate effectively, respond to complex and emerging risks, and maintain the highest professional standards. We work closely with government, regulators, emergency service partners and sector stakeholders to ensure that the collective voice of fire and rescue leaders is influential, credible and evidence-led.

As a values-driven organisation and registered charity, NFCC is committed to ethical leadership, transparency and public benefit. We foster a culture that is inclusive, collaborative and rooted in service to communities. Our people are trusted professionals, empowered to lead, innovate and deliver meaningful impact, supported by robust governance, assurance and accountability frameworks.

NFCC is a modern, agile organisation with a fully remote workforce. This enables us to attract and retain talented individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, while supporting flexible, inclusive and high-performing ways of working. We place strong emphasis on wellbeing, professional development and continuous learning, recognising that our effectiveness depends on the capability, integrity and commitment of our people.

Joining NFCC means working on issues of national significance, influencing the future of fire and rescue services, and helping to strengthen the resilience and safety of the communities we serve. If you are motivated by public service and professional excellence, have a strong focus on delivery and impact, and bring experience in leading business transformation and organisational change, this role offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to operate at the highest level of leadership.

The Selection Process

How to apply:

If you are interested in this role and think you have the skills and experience we need, please do look at the Job description on the NFCC website.

Candidates are invited to submit their CV and a covering letter setting out how they can meet the requirements set out in the job description. Please email this to the Recruitment mailbox (details found on the NFCC Website) by 23rd April 2026.

Tests for shortlisted candidates are likely to be Week commencing 4th May 2026

Interviews taking place on the 18th & 19th May 2026

NFCC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults and will require a DBS check to be completed prior to commencing in post.

NFCC is committed to being an inclusive employer. We comply with the Equality Act 2010, and we believe that everyone deserves to work in safe environments that are free from bullying, harassment and discrimination, abuse, and harm, where they feel supported, welcome, and able to thrive.

NFCC acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard, protect and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice, all staff are expected to share this commitment.

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

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

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

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

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

Key Responsibilities and Duties: 

Strategic Leadership:  

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

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

Comms & Marketing:

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

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

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

Influencing & Public Affairs:  

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

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

• Build our credibility as a thought leader in the sector 

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:  

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

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

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

Reputation, Brand Management & Marketing:  

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

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

Membership, Events & Communities:  

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

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

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

• Supporting Bild and RRN spokespeople with PR and media outreach

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

General Responsibilities 

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

• Allocate, manage and evaluate budget spend

• Identify resource requirements for activity across Bild group

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

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

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

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

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

Personal Development  

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

• Participate and contribute to individual performance appraisal and supervision sessions

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

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

Organisational Responsibilities: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Person Specification  

Job Title 

Director of External Relations 

• Exceptional copy writing and verbal communication skills

• Good presenting, negotiating and influencing skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build mutually beneficial relationships

• The ability to work effectively within a small team

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

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

• A motivated attitude and ability to work on own initiative 

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

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

• Fit to undertake the duties of the post. 

Experience/Skills/Competencies 

Essential 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Experience managing budgets and associated reporting

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

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

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

Desirable 

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

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

• Strong media contacts within relevant trade sector publications

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

• Experience with conferences, webinars and hybrid events. 

• Experience supporting and manging a remote team

Education and Qualifications: 

Other Requirements: 

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

• Regular travel to attend meetings and events. 

• Occasional evening meetings.  

Legal requirements: 

• Enhanced DBS check. 

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

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

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

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

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

Evolve Counselling is a long‑established Cambridgeshire charity providing professional, affordable mental‑health support to individuals, organisations and communities. Each year, Evolve delivers thousands of counselling sessions through a team of trained, accredited counsellors working across the East of England region.

Our mission is to deliver counselling services to adults at the lowest possible cost, wherever possible seeking to subsidise sessions for those on low incomes. We do this through a mixed model of commissioned services, private counselling, and grant‑supported provision. By working to grow and foster a membership body of professional counsellors, Evolve strives to improve access to quality counselling and psychotherapy for all, and to create a positive working environment for those in the profession.

The CEO role provides strategic and operational leadership to drive Evolve’s growth, sustainability and impact. The position delivers effective organisational management, high‑quality service delivery, robust governance, regulatory compliance, and a positive staff culture.  Working in conjunction with the board, this is an exciting opportunity to shape the organisation’s future, ensuring that Evolve remains a trusted, quality and sustainable source of mental health support for years to come. 

Following several years of successful internal stabilisation—strengthening governance, staffing, and operational systems—the charity is ready to enter a critical period of transformation and growth. Our current CEO plans to retire in September 2026, having laid strong foundations for what must come next.

Our new CEO will lead Evolve into this next phase—strengthening partnerships, expanding referral pathways, stabilising revenue streams, and championing accessible counselling across our communities.

Head of Governance & Compliance

Central London (Hybrid – 2 days in office)
Up to £82,000 + benefits
Housing Association | Permanent

About the role

This is a standout opportunity to join a respected Housing Association in a pivotal leadership role, reporting directly to the Executive Director of Finance and operating at Senior Management Team level.

As Head of Governance & Compliance, you’ll act as the organisation’s regulatory focal point, ensuring strong governance, robust compliance frameworks and effective engagement with the Regulator of Social Housing. You’ll also take on the formal responsibilities of Company Secretary, working closely with the Chief Executive and Board.

This is a highly visible role where you’ll influence strategic decision-making, hold senior stakeholders to account, and play a key role in maintaining the organisation’s regulatory standing.

Key responsibilities

• Lead on all governance, compliance and regulatory matters across the organisation
• Act as Company Secretary, ensuring statutory compliance and effective board governance
• Serve as the primary contact for the Regulator of Social Housing, managing returns and relationships
• Work closely with the CEO and Board, supporting governance effectiveness and decision-making
• Lead on Board and Committee recruitment, succession planning and appraisals
• Oversee risk management and assurance frameworks, including strategic and operational risk registers
• Ensure compliance with data protection legislation, acting as Data Protection Officer
• Manage Subject Access Requests (SARs) and wider information governance
• Oversee internal audit activity and ensure robust assurance reporting
• Lead on policy development and ensure alignment with regulatory and legal requirements
• Provide oversight of Stage 2 complaints handling across the organisation
• Conduct horizon scanning on regulatory and legislative changes

Team leadership

You’ll lead a small but high-impact team of three:

• Policy Officer
• Risk & Assurance Officer
• Governance & Board Support Officer

What we’re looking for

We’re keen to speak with candidates who bring:

• Strong social housing experience is essential across governance, compliance, risk or regulation
• Proven experience engaging with the Regulator of Social Housing
• Company Secretary experience and exposure to Board and Committee environments
• Deep understanding of data protection and handling of SARs (DPO experience highly desirable)
• Experience operating at SMT level, with the confidence to challenge and influence peers
• Track record of attending and contributing to Board meetings
• Leadership and team management experience

Why this role stands out

• Genuine strategic influence at senior leadership level
• Direct exposure to the CEO and Board
• Opportunity to shape governance during a period of Board succession
• Broad remit across governance, risk, compliance and data protection
• Purpose-driven organisation making a real community impact

If you have the required experience and are interested in finding out more, please do reach out to my email at [email protected] ASAP.

Senior Media & Campaigns Officer

We are seeking a proactive, media-savvy Senior Media & Campaigns Officer to deliver impactful campaigns that drive change and influence national conversations.

Position: Senior Media & Campaigns Officer
Salary: £30,000 - £35,907 per annum, Plus £3000 London Allowance
Location: London (hybrid, minimum 2 days in the office)
Hours: Full-time
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 30th April 2026

About the Role
This is a key role within a communications and campaigns team focused on raising profile, influencing decision-makers and delivering meaningful change. You will play a central part in shaping and delivering creative campaigns, with a strong focus on media relations and public engagement.

Key responsibilities include:

• Planning and delivering integrated campaigns across digital and offline channels
• Drafting press releases, briefings and compelling campaign content
• Managing media enquiries and building relationships with journalists
• Supporting campaign strategy development and identifying opportunities to influence policy and public debate
• Creating engaging supporter actions using campaign platforms
• Monitoring and evaluating campaign and media performance
• Coordinating internal and external stakeholders to deliver campaigns effectively
• Managing campaign data and ensuring compliance with GDPR

About You
You will be an enthusiastic and driven communicator with a strong understanding of media and campaigning.

You will bring:

• Experience in media relations, campaigns or communications roles
• Strong writing skills with the ability to communicate complex issues clearly
• Confidence working with data, systems and campaign platforms
• Excellent project management and organisational skills
• Ability to build relationships and work collaboratively across teams
• A proactive approach with the confidence to generate ideas and respond to fast-moving issues
• Knowledge of how to influence decision-makers and shape public conversations
• Understand how social media and digital channels can be effectively used to amplify campaigns

Experience within the charity or public sector, or working on social impact issues, would be beneficial but not essential.

About the Organisation
You will be joining a values-led organisation committed to improving lives and driving meaningful social change. The team works collaboratively to influence public attitudes, shape policy and ensure that important issues remain high on the national agenda.

Other roles you may have experience of could include; Media Officer, Campaigns Officer, Communications Officer, Public Affairs Officer, PR Officer, External Affairs Officer

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

Our Communications Officer will play an essential role at a key moment for IVAR, with communications at the heart of our new strategy. Charities are facing mounting pressures and ongoing complexities, and IVAR’s work has potential for the greatest impact. We are looking for someone who will help us meet this potential: working together with the Director of Communications to make our research clear, accessible and compelling; with the aim of sparking conversations; inspiring action; and strengthening movements like our Open and Trusting network. We expect you to bring creativity, energy and curiosity to how we tell stories, explore new tools and formats, and connect more people with IVAR’s mission.

This is a hands-on role in a small but mighty team. If you thrive on combining creativity with delivery, enjoy working collaboratively, and are motivated by strengthening the voluntary sector, we’d love to hear from you.