Research support jobs

We’re looking for a proactive and technically minded IT Administrator to join our small but mighty IT team. In this varied and hands-on role, you’ll play a vital part in keeping The Charity’s systems, devices, and digital infrastructure running smoothly — so that everyone across the organisation can do their best work in support of our mission. The role is 4 days in the office, with Friday working from home. Please note that our office is currently based in Fleet; however, we will be relocating to Woking from 2027. Candidates should be comfortable with this future change in location.

Working closely with the IT Manager you’ll be the first point of contact for in-office IT support requests, managing and resolving tickets efficiently, maintaining our hardware and asset register, keeping documentation up-to-date, and assisting with the onboarding and offboarding of staff and volunteers.

You’ll also collaborate with our external IT Services provider to ensure that requests are being progressed and with the wider internal teams on a broad range of projects — from maintaining our Microsoft 365 environment to scoping new digital solutions that help The Charity operate at its best. If you’re passionate about IT and want your work to make a real difference, this could be the perfect next step in your career. 

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR:

You’re a confident and curious IT professional who thrives in a busy, fast-paced environment. Organised and solutions-focused, you’re comfortable balancing day-to-day support requests with longer-term project work. You’ll bring strong communication skills, a collaborative spirit, and a genuine desire to help people — making sure everyone at The Charity has the tools and technology they need to deliver life-changing work. 

KEY ACCOUNTABILITITES:

• Serve as a key point of contact for IT support, triaging and resolving helpdesk tickets through our ticketing system in a timely and effective manner

• Work closely with the IT Manager to deliver IT services across the organisation, supporting strategic priorities and day-to-day operations

• Participate in daily IT team Scrums to share updates, discuss solutions and coordinate workload

• Manage the onboarding and offboarding of IT systems and accounts for staff, volunteers and contractors, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience

• Maintain and update the Asset Register, ensuring accurate records of all hardware and software

• Provision, configure and maintain The Charity’s hardware, including laptops, peripherals and mobile devices

• Administer and support our Microsoft 365 environment, including user accounts, licences and core applications

• Collaborate with our external IT Services provider to resolve escalated issues and deliver improvements

• Contribute to IT projects across the organisation, from initial scoping through to implementation

• Produce clear system documentation, project briefs and progress reports

• Provide IT guidance and training to staff at all levels, promoting confident and effective use of our tools and systems

• Take an active role in IT training delivery - designing, scheduling and running sessions (both group and one-to-one) and proactively identifying skills gaps across the business

• Identify opportunities to improve IT processes, systems and the overall user experience across The Charity

• Support, monitor and maintain the office infrastructure, including firewalls, switches, access points, and Wi-Fi / network security

Team: Advocacy 

Location: Remote with regular travel. Approx. Once a month 

Work pattern: Monday-Friday, 35 hours per week. Flexible working options available 

Salary: Up to £38,918.33 per year 

Contract: Fixed-term contract until 30th April 2027 

We are the UK’s largest cat welfare charity. All over the country, our passionate employees, volunteers and supporters are using their kindness and expertise to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them. 

Will you join us and make life better for cats? 

Responsibilities of our Advocacy & Government Relations Officer - Westminster: 

- Support engagement with MPs, Government departments and key external stakeholders to influence policy and advocacy outcomes 

- Monitor parliamentary activity, legislation and policy developments, identifying risks and opportunities affecting cat welfare 

- Draft briefings, consultation responses, position statements and advocacy materials to support campaigning objectives 

- Conduct research and evidence gathering to inform policy development and charity campaigns 

- Develop strategic messaging and responses to legislative, regulatory and reputational issues 

- Coordinate and deliver Westminster-based events and stakeholder engagement activities 

- Work closely with teams such as Media, Digital and Web to maximise campaign impact 

- Build collaborative relationships across the sector to advance shared advocacy priorities and charity goals 

About the Advocacy team: 

The Advocacy & Government Relations team leads the charity in influencing decision-makers and those whose policies, practices and decisions affect cat welfare across the UK. The small, highly motivated team works to influence legislators (national and devolved governments), professional organisations and corporates. The team has successfully influenced the law on microchipping, pet theft and commercial kitten sales in England and worked with the Scottish Government to regulate cat breeding and rehoming activities. The team also runs digital campaigns as part of its strategy. 

What we’re looking for in our Advocacy & Government Relations Officer - Westminster: 

- Experience of advocacy, public affairs or influencing work, ideally in Westminster

- Experience of policy work and research

- Experience of dealing with high profile/ VIP individuals e.g. Ministers, MPs, MSPs, MLAs, MPs, Government Officials, Local Councillors and officers, etc. 

- Proven ability to multi-task and work independently on own initiative, accurately and under pressure

- Experience of effective use of social media and the internet in an advocacy/campaign context

- A confident communicator with good written and oral skills; and great people skills

- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to be flexible and adaptable

- A passion for cats and cat welfare 

What we can offer you: 

- 26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service

- A competitive contributory pension scheme and life assurance for peace of mind 

- Health and wellbeing support to help you stay well while working remotely 

- Flexible working options to support a healthy work–life balance

- Ongoing learning and development to help you build your skills and grow your career

- Financial wellbeing support, including access to Salary Finance

- Access to discounted pet insurance to help care for your pet’s health

Learn more about our full reward package

Application closing date: 5th August 2026 

Virtual interview date: 20th & 21st August 2026 

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. 

Corporate and Philanthropy Manager

Aquilas is delighted to be working with Royal Papworth Hospital Charity to recruit a Corporate and Philanthropy Manager to develop and manage high‑value income streams, including corporate partnerships and support the Head of Philanthropy with major donors and philanthropic giving.

Location: Cambridge, 1 day a week in the office.

Reports to: Head of Philanthropy

This is a full time, permanent role to work from their Cambridge office (one day per week in the office)

About the charity

Royal Papworth Charity exists to enhance the world‑leading care delivered at Royal Papworth Hospital by funding projects that go above and beyond NHS provision. Our work supports pioneering research, innovation, patient experience, staff wellbeing and the creation of exceptional environments for patients, families and staff.

The Charity is undergoing a period of growth and evolution as it continues to broaden and strengthen its fundraising capability which has grown significantly over the last 18 months and deepen the impact of it’s on the hospital, funding research, innovation, patient experience, staff wellbeing and the creation of exceptional environments for patients, families and staff

Purpose of the role

The Corporate & Philanthropy Manager is responsible for developing and managing high‑value income streams, including corporate partnerships, COTY (Charity of The Year) partnerships, Online Gifting, Workplace giving and supporting the Head of Philanthropy with major donors and philanthropic giving. This is an income generating role, responsible for the generating a new income stream of over £500,000 over the next 5 years. The postholder will identify, cultivate and steward supporters capable of making significant contributions, building long‑term relationships that deliver sustainable income for the charity.

Working closely with clinical teams, senior Trust leaders and the wider fundraising team, the postholder will develop compelling cases for support, manage a portfolio of high‑value prospects, and contribute to the development and delivery of the charity’s fundraising strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership of Corporate Income 
• Corporate Partnership Development
• Major Donor & Philanthropy Management

What we’re looking for:

• Highly developed specialist knowledge in corporate fundraising, major donor fundraising, business development or high value relationship management supported by both theory and experience, developed through Master’s level equivalent training and experience.
• Demonstrable track record of securing significant income or partnerships.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and presentation skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, donors and partners.
• Strong strategic thinking and ability to identify and develop opportunities.
• High level of organisational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to work independently and exercise initiative within defined procedures

We offer:

*Flexible working options

*A supportive and collaborative culture

*Opportunities for professional development

*The chance to deliver meaningful change in a nationally renowned healthcare setting

Please click on the link to be redirected to the Aquilas website, where you will find full details of the role and how to apply.

We are hiring a Trusts and Foundations Executive

Do you have excellent written communication skills, an interest in developing relationships with charitable funders and the ability to manage competing priorities? Are you motivated by the opportunity to generate vital income that helps tackle the housing emergency?

Then join Shelter as a Trusts and Foundations Executive and help us build strong, lasting relationships with trusts and foundations to secure funding for our services and campaigns.

About the role

As Trusts and Foundations Executive, you will manage a varied portfolio of warm, lapsed and prospective trust and foundation supporters, securing gifts of up to £30,000. You will also manage our regular mailing programme to smaller trusts, coordinating the information and processes needed to deliver high-quality and timely applications.

You will research existing and potential funders and maintain and develop relationships, submitting tailored proposals and reports. By utilising a relationship-led approach, you will communicate with trusts throughout the application and stewardship process, whilst also working with colleagues across Shelter to gather compelling information about our services and campaigns. 

This is a one-year fixed-term role, offering flexible working with regular travel to London and other Shelter locations for meetings when required.

Role specifics

We’re looking for a proactive and organised individual, who can build positive relationships with funders while also managing a busy portfolio of applications, reports and stewardship activity.

You will:

• Manage relationships with an allocated portfolio of warm, lapsed and new trust funders, helping to develop sustainable, long-term partnerships.
• Lead the delivery of Shelter’s Small Trust Mailing, summarising our national and regional work and tailoring communications where appropriate.
• Write persuasive funding proposals, grant reports and updates tailored to the requirements and interests of different funders.
• Acknowledge donations promptly and steward funders between applications to maintain strong relationships with Shelter.
• Monitor and the Trust and Foundations Team email inbox, responding to queries, administering donations and flagging emails with the rest of the team as appropriate.
• Keep accurate records of donor activity and communications using Microsoft Dynamics and other agreed information systems.
• Monitor income and activity against agreed financial and productivity targets.
• Research potential funders and maintain an active pipeline of opportunities, prioritising approaches based on their potential value, likelihood of success and stage of engagement.
• Work with colleagues across services, campaigns, finance and senior management to gather accurate information, budgets, permissions and evidence of impact.
• Arrange and attend meetings and project visits, ensuring colleagues are properly briefed and funders receive an engaging and professional experience.
• Support wider High Value Partnerships projects and Shelter’s Special Events programme when required.

About you

You will be a confident written communicator who can turn detailed information into clear, compelling and tailored funding applications. You will also be comfortable researching new opportunities, managing multiple deadlines and building relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

You will also be:

• Highly organised, with the ability to plan and prioritise a varied workload.
• Confident maintaining accurate records and using databases or customer relationship management systems.
• Comfortable taking ownership of tasks and progressing work independently.
• Collaborative and able to work effectively with colleagues across different teams and areas of expertise.
• Able to gather, interpret and present complex information clearly.
• Motivated by meeting financial and activity targets.
• Proactive, reflective and open to learning from both successes and challenges.
• Committed to working inclusively and contributing to Shelter’s journey towards becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.

Previous experience of fundraising, relationship management, proposal writing or working with trusts and foundations would be valuable. We also welcome applications from people who can demonstrate relevant transferable skills and the ability to learn quickly.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits, including:

• 30 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Flexible working hours and practices.
• A competitive pension scheme.
• Salary sacrifice schemes.
• Enhanced family-friendly policies.
• Interest-free travel loans.
• A tenancy deposit loan.
• Payroll giving and a cycle-to-work scheme.
• Access to an employee assistance programme.

We are happy to talk about flexible working and personal growth, and we are committed to creating a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based on your merit.

About the team

The Trusts and Foundations team forms part of High Value Partnerships within Shelter’s Income Generation Directorate.

The team currently consists of eight fundraisers and one Grants Manager, working together to secure funding and develop lasting relationships with trusts and foundations.

Income Generation raises around £40 million each year to support Shelter’s work. You will work closely with colleagues across Trusts and Foundations, Corporate Partnerships, Major Donors, Special Events and Legacies, as well as colleagues in Shelter’s services, campaigns and finance teams.

You will join a supportive and collaborative team that shares knowledge, celebrates the contributions of others and works together to maximise income opportunities for Shelter.

How to apply

Please click ‘Apply for Job’ below. You are required to submit your work history and a supporting statement. Please provide specific examples of how you meet the criteria in the 'About you' section of this advert, following the STAR format, and ensure you demonstrate how you address the behaviours below throughout your responses:

• We prioritise diversity and have an inclusive and open mindset
• We learn from our experiences and are open to risk
• We create change and align behind our strategy

About Shelter

Home is a human right. It’s our foundation and where we thrive. Yet every day, millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We need ambitious, passionate people to join us. This is your chance to play a part in the fundamental change we are striving to achieve.

Our enemy is the social injustice at the core of the escalating housing emergency. To win this fight, we must be representative of the people we are here to help and those who support our movement.

In all our people decisions, we take pride in being inclusive, equitable and transparent. We are committed to combating racism both within and outside Shelter, and we welcome you on our journey to becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.

We recognise that people from marginalised groups may face additional barriers throughout their careers. If you are excited about this role but your experience does not align perfectly with every part of the job description, please do not let that stop you from applying. We encourage you to tell us how your skills, knowledge, behaviours and experience would support your success in the role.

Safeguarding statement

Safeguarding is everyone’s business. Shelter is committed to protecting the health, wellbeing and human rights of those we support and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect.

All staff are expected to observe professional standards of behaviour and conduct their work in line with our Safeguarding Policies.

Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies or accept the fees associated with them.

Shelter does not accept unsolicited CVs from external recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them

We are seeking an exceptional advocate with a policy, legal or related digital rights campaigning background to work with us furthering privacy and civil liberties in the UK at one of the UK’s leading rights NGOs. Initially, this role will be principally challenging facial recognition surveillance and scrutinising police surveillance/AI powers.

The right Senior Advocacy Officer will help us to lobby UK Parliament to further privacy and wider rights at a critical time – when a legal framework on police use of facial recognition is very soon to be introduced, and police are expanding their use of AI and new surveillance technologies. You’ll build on your strong experience to be a credible and proactive lobbyist in Parliament, write expert briefings and be confident meeting parliamentarians, take a leading role liaising with policy stakeholders, advise on strategic litigation, be a leading advocate in the press and the public forum, develop policy positions on key issues, and help drive our public campaigns for change.

About you

You’ll have 3+ years experience in a legal or policy capacity, or in a comparable advocacy environment that relied on your expertise on technology and rights issues – ideally involving facial recognition. You’ll have a strong track record of advocacy success.

You’ll be familiar with key litigation and policy issues in the area. You’ll also have excellent knowledge of British politics and UK parliamentary procedures and strong political contacts to match.

You’ll be at ease working on a strictly non-partisan, cross-party basis and grounding policy analysis in human rights and liberal principles.

You’ll be proactive in pitching policy, litigation and campaign ideas for the organisation to pursue within our work streams.

You’ll be an experienced spokesperson, confident undertaking live and recorded TV and radio interviews, talking to a variety of audiences and representing the organisation and our campaigns.

If you’re committed to Big Brother Watch’s mission, we’d like to hear from you.

Senior Advocacy Officer job description

Policy

• Produce policy analysis, research, briefings and reports for dissemination

• Develop strategic policy recommendations informed by expertise

• Identify and explore new and emerging policy issues in our key work areas

• Communicate complex policy issues to varied audiences, whether Parliament, the press or the public

• Build strong relationships with parliamentarians and advisors across all parties

• Identify opportunities to further our strategic aims in Parliament, through committees, parliamentary questions and other activities; as well as regional assemblies and on occasion local government

• Work with stakeholders and pursue collaborative campaigns/coalitions on key issues

• Develop Big Brother Watch’s relationships with allies across Government, legislative bodies, international organisations, and NGOs

• Draft formal correspondence, blog posts, presentations, and other documents articulating Big Brother Watch’s policy positions

Advocacy

• Identify campaigns and advocacy opportunities, and feed into campaign plans and materials

• Write articles and give quotes to press

• Give pre-recorded and live interviews for TV and radio

• Uphold Big Brother Watch’s reputational excellence in public fora

• Help manage media enquiries (our 24/7 media phone is handled on a staff rota system)

Legal

• Help co-ordinate Big Brother Watch’s strategic litigation where appropriate, liaising with external lawyers

• Manage relationships with external counsel & build strong relationships with partners

• Produce legal and policy analysis and identify strategic litigation opportunities

Person specification

Essential

• Min. 3+ years experience in a similar role

• Familiarity/expertise with domestic policy matters relating to privacy, surveillance and/or free expression

• Strong legal and/or policy research skills

• Excellent and persuasive communications skills

• Demonstrable experience in privacy, freedom of expression, and other rights and technology areas

• Aptitude for managing and building relationships with partner organisations, parliamentarians and other stakeholders

• Proven ability to produce high quality work under pressure

• Creativity and energy in approaching a workload consisting of large long-term projects

• Willingness to work in non-partisan environment, and ability to recruit support of MPs across all parties

Desirable

• A track record of successful advocacy experience

• Experience of involvement in litigation, either in a legal or campaigns capacity

• Experience working with parliamentarians and/or producing policy briefings

• Project management experience

• Familiarity with relevant UK surveillance laws, human rights frameworks, and relevant case law

Big Brother Watch

Big Brother Watch is a UK civil liberties campaign group fighting for a free future. We’re determined to reclaim our privacy and defend freedoms at this time of enormous technological change. And we fight to win.

We’re a fiercely independent, diverse, non-partisan and non-profit group of campaigners and researchers who work to roll back the surveillance state and protect rights in Parliament, the media or the courts if we have to. We publish unique investigations and pursue powerful public campaigns to pursue real change. We work relentlessly to inform and empower the public to collectively reclaim privacy, defend our civil liberties and protect freedoms for the future.

We’re a small, dedicated and highly effective team of 8 staff and 7 volunteers.

We're looking for an experienced and motivated fundraiser to build on our strong foundations, develop new opportunities, and help ensure that The Gatehouse can continue providing life-changing support to adults experiencing homelessness, poverty and exclusion. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until a successful appointment is made.

Position: Assistant

Location: South of England (hybrid working with London/UK wide travel as required)

Contract type: Flexible (full or part-time, contractor/employed)

Salary: Up to £30,000 pro rata depending on experience

WHO WE ARE.

Can Do is a start-up using digital technology to create social change. We work across addiction, mental health, homelessness, poverty and justice to help people access and navigate support. We are small, practical, and focused on building something that works for people facing disadvantage.

THE ROLE

 

This role supports founder Mark Johnson with day-to-day organisation, preparation, communication, and follow-up. It is a hands-on role and could be suited to someone early in their career who wants an opportunity to grow, learn, and be part of building something from the ground up. You will help bring order, structure, and clarity to a fast-moving environment.

This is a development role with real responsibility. You will handle communications, organise information, prepare materials, conduct basic research, and make sure Mark has what he needs to stay up to date and move projects forward.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

· Someone who can absorb information quickly and think clearly

· Naturally organised, structured, and meticulous with detail

· Interested in social justice, politics, history, and the wider world

· Someone who wants a meaningful opportunity to learn and be part of a start-up journey

· Open, curious, and willing to develop new skills

· Calm and steady

· Someone who enjoys creating order and helping things run smoothly

· Based in the South of England, and willing to travel

· Comfortable using digital and AI tools, with an interest in personal and professional development

WHAT YOU’LL DO

· Communication support: Draft emails, prepare short notes, and help keep Mark up to date with actions and priorities

· Organisation: Keep diaries, documents, and information in meticulous order

· Meeting support: Join conversations, take clear notes, track actions, and ensure follow-up happens

· Research: Collect short summaries, stats, and key information about our sector (addiction, mental health, homelessness, poverty, justice)

· Fundraising and bids: Assist with drafting, formatting, and preparing proposals and applications

· Documentation: Prepare simple business cases, summaries, or briefing papers

· Operations: Support basic bookkeeping tasks, receipts, and expense organisation

· Learning and development: Take on a variety of new tasks as skills grow

SKILLS & QUALITIES

• Strong academic ability and curiosity

• Excellent written communication skills

• Ability to organise information clearly and maintain structure

• Strong attention to detail and pride in accuracy

• Interest in social justice and willingness to understand the issues we work on

• Ability to learn quickly, listen well, and adapt as the organisation develops

• A steady, reliable attitude

 

EQUALITY & DIVERSITY.

Can Do welcomes applications from people with lived experience of social challenges. We are committed to ensuring diversity and inclusion in our recruitment process and workplace culture.

Salary: £35,000 - £37,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent, full-time (37.5 hours per week)
Location: Chelsea, London – Hybrid working (with occasional travel to Sutton)
Closing date: 30th July
Benefits: 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, contributory pension scheme, life insurance, enhanced maternity and adoption pay, flexible working arrangements and more.

The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity is seeking a talented and ambitious Senior Philanthropy Executive - Trusts to join its high-performing Philanthropy and Partnerships team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to take the next step in their trusts fundraising career and play a key role in helping one of the UK's leading cancer charities achieve its ambitious fundraising goals.
Working closely with the Trusts team, you will manage and grow a portfolio of trusts and foundations, build strong relationships with funders, identify new funding opportunities, and develop compelling applications to secure five-figure plus gifts and long-term support. You'll also work alongside clinicians, researchers and charity colleagues to bring transformational projects to life and demonstrate the impact of donor support.
To be successful as the Senior Philanthropy Executive, Trusts, you will need:

• Experience identifying and researching trusts and foundations, including developing relationships with funders and key stakeholders.
• A proven track record of creating persuasive funding applications and securing or stewarding five-figure donations from trusts and foundations.
• Exceptional written communication skills with the ability to translate complex information into compelling donor-focused proposals.

If you would like to discuss this role with us, please contact us and quote the reference 3023AJ.
Ashby Jenkins Recruitment are a specialist charity recruitment agency. We use our extensive sector knowledge and experience to match candidates to the most suitable charity jobs. We are passionate about improving equality across the sector; you can read more about our commitment to diversity here.
We take a relationship-led approach to recruitment in the charity sector and partner with you as the leading charity recruitment agency.
If enough applications are received, the charity reserves the right to end the application period sooner

 

About the Role
We are looking for a proactive and organised Grants Officer to support the delivery of our grant-making programme and help empower young people facing deep-rooted inequality to create lasting change. Working across the full grants cycle, you will coordinate key administrative processes, maintain accurate records, analyse and report on grants data, and support the planning and delivery of events.

The successful candidate will be dependable, detail-oriented, and committed to ensuring efficient systems and high-quality support for applicants, grant recipients, and colleagues.

As a Grants Officer, you will:

• Coordinate the administration of grants and events across the grants programme.
• Maintain and improve grant management systems and processes.
• Provide timely support and guidance to applicants and respond to enquiries.
• Ensure accurate grant records and documentation for compliance, audit, and impact reporting.
• Collect, monitor, analyse, and report on grant-making data.
• Support consistent use of Salesforce across the team.
• Assist with event logistics, travel bookings, invoice processing, and general team administration.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong organisational and administrative skills who enjoys working with data, improving processes, and contributing to meaningful social impact.

ABOUT US

The Great Friendship Project is an award-winning organisation tackling loneliness through research-informed community programmes, campaigns, and partnerships.

We design and deliver social interventions that help people build real-world friendships, strengthen social confidence, and rise out of loneliness.

Over the past four years, we have delivered hundreds of community activities, partnered with major brands and public institutions, contributed to national research and policy conversations, and built a highly engaged community of tens of thousands of young adults.

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THE ROLE

We are looking for a new Programmes & Community Coordinator to help turn ambitious ideas into well-run programmes with meaningful impact.

This is a varied, hands-on role at the heart of a growing organisation. Working closely with the Founder and CEO, you will coordinate programmes from planning through to delivery, support our volunteer team and ensure that participants receive a consistently welcoming and well-organised experience.

You will also strengthen the systems and processes behind our work, helping us deliver programmes that are effective, sustainable and capable of growing.

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PROGRAMME DELIVERY

• Programme Coordination - Coordinate the planning and delivery of community programmes, pilots, campaigns and other initiatives
• Delivery Logistics - Manage programme schedules, venues, partners, materials and communications to support smooth delivery
• Participant Experience - Act as a friendly and reliable point of contact for participants and help create welcoming, inclusive and well-organised experiences
• Impact & Improvement - Collect feedback, track participation and outcomes, and identify ways to continually improve our programmes

VOLUNTEER COORDINATION

• Recruitment & Onboarding - Support the recruitment, selection and onboarding of volunteers involved in programme delivery
• Training & Support - Coordinate volunteer training, shadowing, guidance and ongoing development
• Rotas & Communications - Manage volunteer availability, rotas and communications, ensuring people understand their responsibilities and feel supported

SYSTEMS & OPERATIONS

• Planning & Organisation - Maintain clear plans, timelines, schedules and task-management systems across programmes
• Process Development - Build and improve practical processes that strengthen delivery, reduce manual work and prevent important tasks from being missed
• Systems Management - Maintain digital tools, databases, records and shared documentation so that information remains accurate and accessible
• Documentation - Develop templates, guidance and playbooks that support consistent delivery and organisational growth

PARTNERSHIPS & GROWTH

• Partnership Support - Help coordinate relationships with venues, delivery partners and other external organisations
• Fundraising Support - Contribute to funding research, applications, reporting and partnership follow-up
• Campaigns & Growth - Support the delivery of campaigns, stakeholder events and other opportunities to extend our reach and impact

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WHO YOU ARE

• Organised & Reliable - You can manage competing priorities, maintain accurate systems and ensure that tasks, deadlines and follow-ups do not get missed
• People-Focused - You understand how to support volunteers and create welcoming experiences for people from different backgrounds
• Confident Communicator - You can build positive relationships with community members, volunteers, colleagues, partners and other stakeholders
• Problem Solver - You take initiative, respond calmly when plans change and find workable solutions to operational challenges
• Tech-Savvy - You are confident using digital tools and can improve processes to make work clearer, more efficient and easier to manage
• Flexible - You're able to work evenings and weekends to support programme delivery, with Time Off in Lieu provided

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EXPERIENCE - ESSENTIAL

• Experience in an operations, coordination, programme delivery, or project support role with responsibility for outcomes
• Experience managing multiple priorities across people, systems, and deadlines in a small or fast-moving organisation
• Confidence taking ownership, exercising judgement, and working with limited supervision

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EXPERIENCE - DESIRABLE

• Experience in a charity, community, events, or volunteer-led environment
• Experience supporting partnerships, fundraising activity, or grant applications
• Experience working closely with senior leadership or a founder

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BENEFITS

Beyond the opportunity to play a pivotal role in a growing social movement, we provide a supportive environment designed to help you thrive personally and professionally.

• Meaningful Work - Play a central role in tackling loneliness and helping people build lasting, real-world friendships
• Flexible Working - Work across home, co-working and community settings, with autonomy around how you structure your week
• Annual Leave - 20 days' annual leave, plus bank holidays and your birthday off, increasing by one day for each completed year of service up to five additional days
• Learning & Development - Receive mentoring and relevant training while developing experience across programme delivery, operations, partnerships and leadership
• Progression Opportunities - Shape a new role designed to develop as the organisation continues to grow

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HOW TO APPLY

Please complete our online application form by Thursday 13th August 2026 at 11pm.

If you have any questions about the role or application process, please contact us by email or through the enquiry form on our website.

Youth Impact Advert

Permanent with funding until 31st August 2027 with potential to extend depending on additional funding

35 hours per week - Monday to Friday.

Due to the nature of the service and our commitment to providing consistent support to children and young people during term time, annual leave is generally encouraged during school holiday periods wherever operationally possible. This arrangement can offer greater flexibility for staff wishing to align leave with school holidays.

£29,855 per annum

Location: Torbay

Benefits include but not limited to:

-36 days' annual leave, inclusive of flexible bank holidays, increasing with length of service

-Enhanced maternity/paternity leave

-We match up to 8% pension

-Free counselling service

-Opportunities to develop and widen your skills

-2 days of paid volunteering time per annum to support another part of the organisation

About us:The Children's Society has been helping children and young people in this country for over 140 years. We deliver essential local services that provide safe, trusted support to children and young people during times of significant need.

Our Youth Impact domain creates impact for children and young people. With highly skilled and experienced staff working across England and Wales, we provide direct support to children, young people, parents and carers, as well as conduct research and influence Government to make changes. We also provide training for professionals. Our value driven team change the lives of children in this country for the better — and with your help and expertise, tomorrow we can support even more.

About the role:You'll play a key part in our EOTAS Service, planning and delivering targeted group work, providing one to one support, and working closely with child and young person's support network, in addition to working in partnership with other organisations to develop bespoke packages for children and young people.

We're looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated project worker with the ability to support children and young people with their transition to adulthood, further education and employment, through working on their barriers and enhancing their independence skills, making a real impact in the lives of children and young people.

Key skills and experience:

The required skills and competencies for this role are:

-Ability to develop and maintain positive and constructive relationships with children and young people

-Experience of working with young people who are underserved, marginalised, or disengaged from mainstream services and support systems

-Ability to educate, inform, coach and mentor children and young people

It would also be an advantage if you have any of the following skills and competencies:

-Experience in delivering outreach work

-Experience in working in a trauma informed practice

-First Aid trained

Closing date: Midnight on Thursday 13th August 2026Interviews: Date to be confirmed

The Children's Society is committed to safeguarding and protection of the children and young people we work with. As such, our safer recruitment process includes a Basic or Enhanced DBS check, 5 years of references, and additional vetting checks relevant to the role. We have a comprehensive range of policies and procedures in place to promote safeguarding and safer working practices across all areas of our organisation.In support of our commitment to diversity and inclusion, shortlisting is carried out on an anonymised basis. Personal details are hidden from the shortlisting panel, and candidates are referenced by a candidate number only. As part of this process, we ask that your CV is anonymised before submission - this means removing personal information such as your name, contact details, age, and any other identifying details.

AI tools can support your application but only when used appropriately. You're welcome to use them to improve clarity, structure, and research. However, overuse or misuse (e.g. inventing experience or using AI during assessments) may lead to rejection at any stage. We want to hear the real you - authenticity matters.

Citizens UK

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

Living Wage Foundation

The Living Wage movement began in 2001, after Citizens UK brought together communities in East London to discuss poverty and low pay. The campaign grew in momentum and soon required a mechanism to recognise employers who wanted to join the movement, which saw the establishment of the Living Wage Foundation in 2011.

Still part of Citizens UK today, the Living Wage Foundation continues to work with community organisations to make sure the voices of both workers and businesses are part of the Living Wage movement. We now work with over 16,000 employers, benefitting half a million people and winning over £3bn of better wages for people who need it most. 

Citizens UK works with a broad base of institutions across the political spectrum. At the Living Wage Foundation, we take the same deliberately broad-based approach and accredit all organisations who pay the real Living Wage to their directly and indirectly employed staff and are committed to tackling in work poverty.  As a team we work across a range of industries and sectors to achieve this mission. We seek pragmatic coalitions to progress specific campaigns, and partnership around a particular issue such as Living Wage, does not imply an endorsement of broader purpose and policies. We are a non-partisan organisation and work with partners across the political spectrum to advance our mission.

Purpose

The Living Wage Foundation is seeking an experienced and driven Senior Media and Communications Manager to join our team for a 12-month contract. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly organised and proactive communications professional with a strong background in media relations, public messaging, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will be experienced and confident in working to tight deadlines, responding to last-minute changes, and prioritising competing demands in a high-profile environment. They will be motivated to amplify the Living Wage Foundation’s mission of tackling low pay and insecure work.

The postholder will lead all media, messaging, and external affairs work, developing and implementing a proactive media strategy that supports our mission and key campaigns, such as Living Wage Week and the annual Rates announcement. As a skilled media professional, you will oversee all communications outputs, ensuring consistency and strategic alignment, while delivering media training and refining key messaging to maximise reach and impact. 

In this role, you will be instrumental in advancing our political engagement efforts, building cross-party support and working with political leaders, mayoral teams, and other key stakeholders to promote our initiatives. You’ll manage two direct reports (Events Manager and Media Manager) who each hold line management responsibilities, and you will play a critical role within our Senior Management Team, collaborating closely with the Head of Communications to shape the overall direction of our communications work. This role will work closely with Citizens UK colleagues, including the Citizens UK communications team on cross-organisational priorities.  You will report to the Head of Communications.

As a senior leader, you will be responsible for managing and allocating part of the communications team budget, expanding team capacity, and driving the team’s effectiveness. In collaboration with other senior managers, you will help foster a culture that values creativity, innovation, and strategic impact.

Main Responsibilities

Contribute to CUK mission and its strategic objectives:

• Provide strategic oversight of the organisation’s media strategy, ensuring it aligns with broader organisational, communications, and campaign goals, and establish clear processes for evaluating its success.

• Work alongside other Senior Managers across Citizens UK on cross-organisational activity including through the Senior Management Group

• Support the Living Wage Foundation’s Political Engagement Strategy by building and sustaining cross-party support for the organisation’s mission and objectives.

Situational awareness and research:

• Lead regular updates on key audiences, tracking positions on issues of interest and ensuring the team is fully informed.

• Guide the team in proactive media monitoring, enabling timely responses to significant developments.

• Collaborate with the Senior Research Manager to conduct and commission impactful research, driving media campaigns that effectively reach and engage target audiences.

Strategy development:

• Work alongside other Senior Managers in the Communications Team to shape and guide the overall communications strategy.

Lead on all media and messaging outputs, including developing high-quality materials, coordinating media events, and delivering media training.

Reputational & risk management:

• Develop and manage the organisation’s risk register, offering strategic oversight and serving as a primary contact for crisis communications.

• Manage and respond to reactive media enquiries promptly, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s values and objectives.

• Draft key messages and FAQs for media interviews and public responses, and advise senior leadership on sensitive media or reputational issues.

• Represent the Living Wage Foundation effectively in senior stakeholder interactions and participate in out-of-hours press duties when needed.

Materials development and dissemination:

• Oversee the Media Team in producing engaging press releases, blogs, opinion pieces, and media briefings to elevate the Living Wage Foundation’s profile and the voices of workers and employers within the Living Wage movement.

• Ensure media outputs and communications reflect the organisation’s values and uphold a consistent voice.

• Create and refine key messaging for public communications, including FAQs and response guides.

Social media and website

• Ensure consistency in messaging and alignment across all media and digital platforms in collaboration with the wider communications team.

External relationships (including media and press)

• Lead employer case study development, identifying and preparing Living Wage employers to speak to media and champion a real Living Wage.

• Drive stakeholder engagement efforts, cultivating valuable relationships with Living Wage employers, campaign partners, and media contacts.

• Build and maintain relationships with journalists across print, digital, and broadcast media to secure quality coverage.

• Collaborate with the Public Engagement Team to draft emails, speeches, speaker notes, briefings, and press notices for political engagements.

• Strengthen and maintain broad cross-party support for the Living Wage agenda.

Campaign & events management

• Provide a link between Events team and Senior Leadership Team to ensure efficient decision-making around key events.

• Lead on media and messaging elements of agreed comms-led campaigns.

Internal comms & knowledge management

• Oversee the development and maintenance of a comprehensive press database, mapping key media contacts and publications in line with the Living Wage Foundation’s objectives.

Internal relationships

• Work closely with the Senior Digital and Communications Manager to guide and oversee team initiatives.

• Provide line management and development support to the Media Manager and Events Manager.

Learning, expertise & DEI

• Lead media training sessions for LWF staff and Living Wage employers, enhancing their confidence and effectiveness in media engagements.

• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the LWF and Citizens UK, including communications and DEI teams, to develop and implement ethical storytelling practices, ensuring lived experience is represented responsibly, inclusively, and in line with organisational guidance.

• Contribute to a positive and inclusive team culture.

• Ensure accessibility is embedded across communications and events, working with relevant teams to implement best practice and organisational guidance.

Person Specification

(D) Desirable, (E) Essential

Experience

· Proven experience and a strong understanding of the UK media landscape, with experience building relationships with journalists and securing high-quality media coverage. (E)

· Experience in line managing and leading a team. (E)

· Demonstrated experience in managing sensitive reputational issues, including risk assessment and crisis communications. (E)

· Skilled in leveraging real-life stories and case studies to drive engagement, including experience in leading media training for spokespeople. (E)

· Strong track record in designing and executing high-impact communications strategies that achieve measurable results. (E)

· Experience of working collaboratively across teams and influencing senior stakeholders to achieve shared objectives. (E)

· Experience of working with a range of voices and perspectives, including community, worker or lived experience storytelling. (D)

Key skills and knowledge

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce and edit clear, engaging content suitable for media, digital and public audiences. (E)

• Competence in using social media platforms to engage audiences effectively, understanding their role in broader media strategies. (D)

• Proficiency in evaluating campaigns and media outputs, with the ability to derive insights that inform future strategies. (E)

• Strong interpersonal skills for building effective relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders, including political audiences. (E)

• Solid understanding of the political landscape and public affairs, with experience engaging cross-party stakeholders (E).

Personal qualities & values

• An enthusiasm for media and communications, coupled with a strong commitment to the mission of the Living Wage Foundation. (E)

• Ability to lead, support and develop high-performing teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive working environment. (E)

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, with an understanding of how to communicate responsibly and ethically about lived experience. (E)

About the application process

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

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

Interviews will be held 17th and 18th August.

The Vacancy

• Location - London or Kenya
• Salary -£50,919 - £52,259 per annum if UK based. (Competitive Birches rated salary for the local market if based outside of the UK)
• Team - Digital Team within People Operations and Assurance Directorate
• Hours - Full time, 35 hours/week
• Contract - FTC (2 years)

JOB PURPOSE

Start Network is delivering an ambitious digital transformation strategy that will fundamentally change the way the network anticipates crises, makes decisions, manages risk, and supports locally led action. Working under the strategic direction of the Head of Digital and Operations, the Digital Delivery Lead is responsible for translating Start Network's digital strategy into successful delivery. The role owns the planning, coordination, implementation and adoption of digital products, platforms and transformation initiatives, ensuring strategic priorities are delivered on time, within budget and to agreed quality standards. The postholder acts as the bridge between strategy and execution, turning organisational objectives into practical delivery plans and measurable outcomes.

The post holder plays a hands-on leadership role across cross-functional teams, suppliers, and partners—embedding user-centred design, agile delivery practices, strong risk management, and high technical standards. They support the organisation to build digital capability, strengthen digital culture, and ensure that digital systems enable speed, scale, and accountability in locally led humanitarian action.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

DELIVERY LEADERSHIP AND GOVERNANCE

• Lead delivery of the digital, product and innovation roadmap agreed by the Head of Digital and Operations, translating strategic priorities into delivery plans, milestones, resource requirements and measurable outcomes.
• Support digital governance and portfolio prioritisation processes, providing delivery insights, performance data and recommendations to inform investment and prioritisation decisions.
• Lead organisation-wide digital transformation initiatives, ensuring the successful adoption of new technologies, systems, ways of working and digital capabilities across Start Network, ensuring alignment between digital delivery teams, operations, programme operations, and organisational strengthening
• Identify opportunities to improve organisational effectiveness, collaboration and member experience through digital solutions.
• Lead end-to end  delivery of digital products and system enhancements.
• Deliver the organisation's AI and innovation roadmap, supporting the responsible adoption of emerging technologies within governance frameworks, policies and risk appetite established by the Head of Digital and Operations
• Ensure delivery teams, suppliers and stakeholders are aligned around agreed strategic objectives.

DIGITAL PLATFORM AND PRODUCT DELIVERY

• In liasion with the Head of Digital and Operations, owning the vision for our digital platforms including setting priorities for future development,  gathering user feedback and improving products
• Work in partnership with Communications colleagues to ensure organisational digital platforms effectively support audience engagement, campaigns and storytelling objectives
• Manage day-to-day development, iterations, integration, and optimisation of Start Network’s digital platforms.
• Lead backlog management, sprint planning, UAT, release cycles, and performance monitoring.
• Ensure digital products are user-centred, accessible, and adapted to the needs of members, hubs, and internal teams.
• Manage the operational performance of digital suppliers and technology partners, ensuring delivery against agreed contracts, service levels and project outcomes, while escalating strategic supplier or investment decisions to the Head of Digital and Operations.
• Collaborate with internal teams to identify, scope, prioritise, and deliver digital projects that support organisational needs and opportunities.
• Manage relationships with developer agencies and ensure value for money in maintenance, retainers, and project work.
• Lead project teams to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Support the development and integration of internal systems—including Salesforce, data management tools, and digital communications platforms.
• Build strong relationships across the organisation, understanding staff needs and advising on emerging digital opportunities.

DATA INSIGHTS

• Implement data elements in line with organisational data governance standards
• Oversee delivery of dashboards, analytics tools, and data pipelines, ensuring digital solutions reliably support decision‑making across the network and align with agreed data standards and governance.
• Integrate ethical AI, automation, and data driven capabilities under the guidance of their line manager

INNOVATION

• Responsible for horizon scanning and researching emerging technologies. 
• Test new ideas and pilots, identifying opportunities for digital innovation across the organisation
• Represent Start Network externally, sharing learning and positioning the organisation as a leader in humanitarian digital innovation

CYBERSECURITY

• Implement technical security controls and privacy‑by‑design measures within digital platforms and projects, in line with organisational data protection and governance requirements.
• Coordinate cyber security assessments, vendor security due diligence, and digital incident preparedness, working with assurance and data leads as required.
• Ensure digital solutions meet Start Network’s standards for trust, safety, and responsible use of technology, embedding these principles into system design and delivery

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT & COMMUNICATION

• Develop strategic partnerships with technology organisations, innovation networks and academia to support digital innovation
• Provide expert advice to colleagues and senior leadership on digital delivery, product development, implementation options and user adoption, being the key liaison between technical teams, suppliers, internal teams, and hubs.
• Provide clear communication of delivery progress, blockers, risks, and achievements.
• Support organisation‑wide digital literacy and adoption initiatives.
• Support organisation‑wide initiatives to build digital literacy, confidence, and adoption.

DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT & CULTURE

• Build a strong digital culture by designing and delivering digital focused training and capability building for staff.
• Lead the rollout and scaling of digital communication tools to hubs and internal teams.

LINE MANAGEMENT

• Lead, motivate and develop the Digital Team, setting direction, priorities and standards for digital delivery across the organisation.
• Build organisational digital capability through coaching, mentoring and leadership of cross-functional teams.
• Carry out effective line management of a team, including recruiting and training direct reports and have an active role in building an inclusive team culture in line with our values.
• Monitor performance and ensure key performance indicators and targets are met or exceeded
• Recognise good performance appropriately and address poor performance effectively.
• Support direct reports to line manage and lead their teams
• Support talent management across all teams, including through succession planning and identification of skills gaps
• Support the professional development and growth of direct reports and other members of the team

START NETWORK CULTURE

• Carry out the responsibilities of the role in line with the Start Network Code of Conduct and with a commitment to safeguarding adults and children
• Commit to Start Network’s vision, principles, values, and approach
• The Start Network team is an agile group of individuals who use their experience and skills across the network, so flexibility to work in and with different teams and functions is a part of our culture.

PERSON PROFILE

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

ESSENTIAL

• Significant experience delivering digital projects or products end-to-end
• Solid project lead and delivery management skills, with a track record of delivering on time and to scope
• Ability to work across technical, operational, and business teams to drive delivery
• Experience managing digital products, platforms and technology suppliers.
• Experience working with cybersecurity, digital governance and risk management.
• Strong experience managing stakeholders, including internal teams, suppliers, and partners
• Experience supporting digital adoption, including user engagement, training, or rollout
• Experience working with digital systems and platforms, with an understanding of user-centred design and continuous improvement

DESIRABLE

• Experience leading organisation-wide digital transformation programmes.
• Experience developing digital strategy and roadmaps.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary digital teams.
• Advice and influence senior leaders on technology and investment decisions.
• Experience of Salesforce platform and management
• Understanding of databases and CRMs

• Experience of working in International / NGO / networked environments and complex stakeholder ecosystems
• Experience working with agile or product delivery approaches (e.g. backlog management, sprint planning, release cycles)
• Experience using data, dashboards, or analytics tools to inform decisions and improve performance
• Awareness of digital security, privacy-by-design, and governance considerations

• Awareness of emerging technologies such as AI, automation, or data-enabled solutions

The Company

Start Network is made up of more than 90 non-governmental organisations across five continents, ranging from large international organisations to local and national NGOs. Our programmes allow members to deliver humanitarian action around the world.

Our mission is to create a new era of humanitarian action that will save even more lives. We aren’t driven by media headlines or political will, we’re here for the communities affected by and at risk of crises.

We are an organisation committed to doing things differently. For some roles, we need more technical humanitarian expertise, but for other roles, we are looking for relevant transferable skills, the right attitude, and a passion to bring change.

The Talent Set are delighted to partner with a brilliant charity in their search for a newly created Senior Philanthropy Manager role.

Already generating 7-figures annually from HNWIs and trusts and foundations, the team has built a strong foundation and is now ready for the next phase of its growth. Taking a relationship-first approach, they are focused on building meaningful, long-term partnerships that deliver lasting impact and transformational support.

As Senior Philanthropy Manager, you will lead a blended portfolio of HNWIs and trusts and foundations, stewarding some of the charity's most significant relationships while developing new six and seven-figure opportunities. Working closely with the Head of Philanthropy, you'll have the chance to influence strategy, develop innovative funding propositions and help drive the continued growth of the programme.

This role would suit an ambitious and entrepreneurial fundraiser who is excited by the prospect of genuine ownership, enjoys leading from the front and is motivated by the opportunity to make a significant contribution to both the organisation's mission and the future success of its philanthropy programme.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Head of Philanthropy to develop and deliver a 3-year philanthropy strategy focused on continued income growth
• Manage and grow a portfolio of major donors, trusts and foundations building lasting relationships that deliver sustainable support
• Design thoughtful and engaging stewardship plans that inspire donors and strengthen long-term engagement
• Collaborate with colleagues across the organisation to create compelling proposals, impact reports and bespoke donor communications
• Undertake strategic prospect research to build a strong pipeline of opportunities and confidently lead cultivation and solicitation activity
• Spearhead the development of an exciting new philanthropic proposition with the potential to unlock increased unrestricted and flexible funding

Person Specification

• Experience in a philanthropy role with a relationship-first approach to major donors and/or trusts/foundations at the 6-figure+ level
• Demonstrable experience of successfully managing the full donor cycle, from prospect research and pipeline development, to cultivation, solicitation and long-term stewardship
• A natural relationship-builder, with excellent verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels
• Creativity, curiosity and commercial awareness, with a genuine passion for delivering outstanding donor experiences
• A self-starter who enjoys taking ownership, spotting opportunities and helping to shape the future of a growing programme

What’s on Offer

Salary: c. £55,000

Hybrid, London – 2 days a week

Full-time, permanent (open to a 0.8 working pattern or compressed hours)

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity

The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.