278 Senior network development manager jobs

Lead a respected counselling charity and help shape the future of mental health support in our community.

If you're an inspiring leader who combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach, this is an opportunity to make a lasting difference. As our new Head of Centre, you'll lead an established, BACP-accredited charity with an excellent reputation for delivering affordable, high-quality counselling and professional training across West Kent and East Sussex.

For almost 40 years, The Counselling Centre has been committed to ensuring that everyone can access professional counselling, regardless of their financial circumstances. We are now looking for an exceptional leader to build on this legacy, strengthening our financial sustainability, developing new partnerships and expanding our impact to meet the growing demand for mental health support.

Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will provide both strategic and operational leadership across the organisation. You'll work closely with our dedicated staff, volunteers and trustees to ensure we continue to deliver outstanding counselling, training and community services while identifying opportunities for growth, innovation and long-term sustainability.

This is a varied and rewarding leadership role. You'll oversee the day-to-day running of the charity, lead financial planning and income generation, develop relationships with funders, commissioners, businesses and community partners, and act as an ambassador for The Counselling Centre across the local area. You'll also champion our values, nurture a positive organisational culture and ensure we continue to meet the highest standards of governance and professional practice.

We're looking for someone who brings senior leadership experience, commercial awareness and a genuine commitment to improving mental health. You'll be an excellent relationship builder with experience of developing partnerships, generating income and leading organisational change. Most importantly, you'll be motivated by our mission and excited by the opportunity to help shape the next chapter of our organisation.

Why join us?

• Lead a respected charity with an outstanding reputation built over almost 40 years.

• Make a genuine difference to the lives of people in your local community.

• Work alongside a committed Board of Trustees, experienced staff and dedicated volunteers.

• Help shape the future direction and growth of an ambitious organisation.

• Enjoy a flexible part-time role (21 hours per week) with hybrid working.

• Competitive salary of circa £50,000–£55,000 per annum pro rata, contributory pension, 25 days' annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays, and Christmas closure.

If you're looking for a leadership role where your strategic vision, commercial skills and passion for community impact can make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Summary of Main Duties and Objectives of the Job:

· Assist in managing crisis response and advocacy teams.

· Provide case oversight and ensure adherence to advocacy standards.

· Support safeguarding and risk management processes.

· Monitor service performance and prepare reports.

· Deputise for the Group Manager when required.

Support the Group Manager to :

· Ensure services meet contractual, legal, and quality standards, including safeguarding, GDPR, and clinical governance.

· Monitor and evaluate service performance, using data and feedback to inform improvements.

· Ensure services are delivered within budget and collaborate with the Finance Manager on financial planning and reporting.

· Contribute to the strategic development of Advocacy & Crisis Prevention services, identifying opportunities for innovation and growth.

· Support tendering and funding applications, working with colleagues to develop compelling proposals.

· Build and maintain relationships with commissioners, funders, and community partners.

· Support the professional development of staff and volunteers through supervision, appraisal, and training.

· Work with HR and senior colleagues to identify training needs and promote wellbeing in the workplace.

· Lead safeguarding practice within the group, ensuring robust policies and procedures are in place.

• Identify and manage risks, reporting to senior leadership as required.
• Ensure service users are meaningfully involved in the design and delivery of services.
• Promote services through outreach, networking, and partnership working to reach underserved communities.
• Prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders, including the Board of Trustees.
• Represent Rochdale and District Mind at external meetings, forums, and events.

General principles for all Mind staff:

1. To promote the empowerment of people who experience mental health and emotional wellbeing issues and to help them speak out.

2. To support the active participation of mental health and emotional wellbeing service users in the services they receive.

3. To practice anti-discriminatory behaviour and to adhere to Rochdale and District Mind’s objectives and policies in the delivery of all its services.

These responsibilities are subject to annual review and may need to be adjusted in line with service developments.

Person Specification

Experience

· Experience in crisis intervention or advocacy services.

· Supervisory experience.

Skills & Abilities-

· Strong leadership and team management skills.

· Strong organisational and interpersonal skills.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

· Ability to work strategically and operationally.

· Skilled in safeguarding and risk management

· Ability to design and implement outreach strategies

Knowledge

· Knowledge of relevant legislation (Mental Health Act, Care Act).

· Understanding of mental health and wellbeing issues.

· Knowledge of clinical governance and therapeutic frameworks.

· Awareness of equality, diversity, and inclusion in service delivery.

· Familiarity with GDPR and other compliance requirements.

Values & Approach

· Commitment to Rochdale and District Mind’s values.

· Person-centred and trauma-informed approach.

· Commitment to anti-discriminatory practice and service user empowerment.

Qualifications-

· Relevant qualification in advocacy , psychotherapy, psychology, social work, or related field (or equivalent experience).

The University of Southampton is a research‑intensive institution and a founding member of the Russell Group. Our aim is to change the world for the better through research, education and knowledge. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

Within the Office of Development & Alumni Relations (ODAR), we build lifelong relationships with our global alumni and supporters, helping them stay connected to Southampton and make a difference through their time, expertise and philanthropy. If you're excited by the idea of shaping and strengthening these communities, this role is for you.

About the role

This is an opportunity to lead a wide-ranging programme of engagement across our alumni and supporter communities. You will lead and develop a team of four, working across ODAR and the wider University to identify opportunities and deliver impactful programmes.

Your portfolio spans engagement and volunteering that advances University priorities – including student recruitment, graduate employability and philanthropy – while strengthening relationships with our international and high‑profile supporters.

A central part of the role is leading the volunteering strand of our first University‑wide fundraising and engagement campaign, the £100m Campaign for Southampton. You will also contribute to projects supporting Southampton's brand and reputation, and international engagement in key countries such as China and India.

As a member of ODAR's senior team, you will represent alumni and supporter engagement on cross‑University working groups and build relationships with stakeholders across the institution.

This role is offered on a hybrid basis, with a minimum of two days a week at Highfield, plus international travel typically once or twice a year.

About you

You'll bring experience building meaningful relationships with alumni, supporters, volunteers, members or similar stakeholder groups, with a track record of delivering successful engagement programmes – ideally drawing on insight and creativity to reach diverse audiences.

An excellent communicator and relationship‑builder, you can influence and work collaboratively with people at all levels. You combine strong organisational and project‑management skills with sound judgement to turn plans into measurable outcomes. You're also an experienced people manager who enjoys developing others.

A background in higher education, fundraising, advancement, charity, membership or another relationship‑led environment would be valuable, but transferable experience is equally welcome.

About us

ODAR has enjoyed an exciting period of growth as we prepare for the Campaign for Southampton. With backing from University leadership, we are investing in the people and programmes needed to deepen alumni and supporter engagement and deliver greater impact for Southampton.

We're a friendly, hardworking team with a passion for making a difference, looking for colleagues with intellectual curiosity, fresh ideas and the confidence to shape something ambitious.

We welcome applicants with direct experience or transferable skills and are committed to building a diverse, inclusive team where everyone can thrive. 

Apply by uploading your CV and a cover letter of up to two sides of A4, outlining how your skills and experience meet the role's requirements and what attracts you to the opportunity.

Starting Salary: £44,766 - £48,225 (including London weighting) 

Contract: Permanent 

Location: UK, Hybrid working with a minimum of 40% of your time in theLondon Office 

Job Profile

This role will lead CAFOD’s policy and advocacy work aimed at tackling the global climate crisis. The post holder will have a solid understanding of debates around climate change, in particular how it impacts climate-vulnerable countries in the Global South. You will bring knowledge of the causes of the climate crisis, and its solutions, particularly global financing needs. Working closely with CAFOD’s overseas partners, and within UK and global networks, this role will hold policy expertise on behalf of the organisation. This will involve developing policy positions and representing the organisation externally. The role will work closely with CAFOD’s government relations and campaigns colleagues to lobby decision-makers and mobilise supporters as part of our climate justice work. Sitting within the Advocacy, Policy & Campaigns team, the role is managed by the head of department.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading the development and delivery of CAFOD’s global climate justice advocacy strategy 

• Working in partnership with UK and global organisations to develop evidence‑based policy positions 

• Influencing UK, regional and global policy debates on climate change 

• Representing CAFOD in coalitions, to decision makers, in church networks and at international forums 

• Writing policy briefings, reports and communication outputs 

• Building relationships with external stakeholders and decision makers and UK and global levels 

• Ensuring advocacy is grounded in strong analysis, partner experience and a commitment to social and environmental justice 

• Supporting advocacy work of partners and global networks on debt cancellation and financial system reform 

• Providing strategic and technical advice across the organisation 

• Any other relevant duties reasonably required

Person Specification 

1. Strong background working in climate policy and/or international development policy 

1. Excellent analytical and research skills and an understanding of how to form strategic policy positions

1. Experience of developing strategic advocacy plans 

1. Experience of lobbying decision makers 

1. Background working with partners and coalitions, both in the UK and overseas 

1. Excellent written and verbal communication skills

CAFOD is a welcoming, supportive workplace committed to a safe, inclusive culture where everyone is respected.CAFODwill make reasonable adjustments at every stage of the recruitment process to ensure candidates with disabilities or individual needs are fully supported. 

Safeguarding for Children and Vulnerable Adults 

CAFOD recognises the personal dignity and rights of children and vulnerable adults, towards whom it has a special responsibility and a duty of care and respect. CAFOD, and all its staff and volunteers, undertake to do all in our power to create a safe environment for children, young people and vulnerable adults and to prevent their physical, sexual or emotional abuse. CAFOD is committed to acting at all times in the best interests of children and vulnerable adults, seeing these interests as paramount. Any candidate offered a job with CAFOD will be expected to adhere to CAFOD’s Safeguarding policy and sign CAFOD’s Code of Behaviour as an appendix to their contract of employment and agree to conduct themselves in accordance with the provisions of these documents.

All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references, and appropriate screening checks can include criminal records and terrorism finance checks. CAFOD also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. In line with this Scheme, we will request information from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms his/her understanding of these recruitment procedures. 

This is an exciting opportunity to lead IRMO’s Advice service. As Advice Casework Manager you will oversee both immigration and welfare & housing casework, managing casework allocation and maintaining rigorous standards across all work. You will provide line management, support staff development and oversee monitoring and evaluation to create accurate reports for funders and senior management. You will also manage a personal caseload, in line with your previous experience. 

IRMO’s Advice service provides trusted information, resources, advice and casework in Spanish and Portuguese on key areas of need, including immigration, welfare entitlements, housing and homelessness prevention. IRMO is accredited by the Advice Quality Standard (AQS) and the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) at Level 3. We are also members of Advice UK and receive second-tier support from Southwark Law Centre.

As part of our Advice for All partnership, you will oversee the delivery of our Advice Workforce Development Programme, working in close collaboration with our partner organisations. This includes supporting the training and development of year-long cohorts of immigration and welfare & housing trainees, as well as strengthening the skills and practice of our existing advice workforce. 

To succeed in this role, you’ll bring strong experience as a senior caseworker and line manager, with a track record of delivering high-quality advice against targets and communicating impact clearly. You’ll be confident in managing people and priorities, with a leadership style that brings out the best in your team.

You’ll also have a strong understanding of the barriers Latin Americans face in accessing immigration, welfare, housing, health and other essential services in the UK, and a genuine passion for advancing the rights and welfare of migrants and refugees.

Join the RHN Fundraising Team and help make a profound difference to the lives of people living with neuro-disability!

We’re looking for an experienced Trusts & Major Gifts Manager to lead and grow a key area of fundraising at the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability. This is an exciting opportunity to shape our trusts and foundations and major gifts programme, build strong relationships with funders and supporters, and secure significant income to enhance the lives of our patients and their families.

With a 170-year legacy of philanthropy and an ambitious fundraising programme, you’ll play a pivotal role in helping the RHN continue to deliver services and activities.

Please note this a part-time role working 4 days a week.

Job title: Trusts and Major Gifts Manager

Department: Fundraising

Contract: Permanent, part time (4 days per week)

Salary: £47,380 per annum pro rata (£37,904 actual salary for the 4 days a week)

Location: Putney, South West London with 1 day per week working from home

Key responsibilities

• Lead income generation, driving the team to achieve an annual target of £1.25m+ and developing a strong, sustainable pipeline of trusts, foundations, statutory and lottery funding.

• Manage and develop the team, setting targets and KPIs, allocating opportunities effectively, and providing coaching, support and constructive feedback.

• Build and nurture funder relationships, identifying new prospects, developing tailored stewardship plans, and representing the RHN through meetings, visits and presentations.

• Develop compelling funding applications, working across the organisation to demonstrate impact, understand funding needs and secure multi-year and transformational grants.

• Stay ahead of the funding landscape, monitoring trends and emerging opportunities and advising on potential new sources of income.

• Oversee effective fundraising management, including budgets, reporting, CRM records, application deadlines and performance against targets.

Person specification: Essential (E) and Desirable (D)

• Educated to degree level (or equivalent) (E)

• Fundraising qualification (D)

• Working knowledge of fundraising best practice; at least 2 years’ experience of grant fundraising; proven record of securing gifts of 5/6 figures and multi-year opportunities (E)

• At least 2 years’ experience in a team management role (E)

• Experience of Raiser’s Edge (or similar fundraising database) as a tool in supporter relationship management and proficiency in Microsoft Office. Appropriate training can be provided. (E)

• Experience of using research techniques to acquire information about existing and prospective funders (E)

• Excellent prospect research and profile creation. (E)

• Excellent interpersonal skills – strong influencing, relationship building and networking skills to develop and nurture donor relationships.  Ability to quickly establish rapport with a diverse range of people. (E)

• Ability to conceive and develop complex proposals (E)

• A flexible approach to work as this role will require some outside of normal office hours working. (E)

• Comfortable working in a hospital setting where interaction with patients, staff, and families is common place (E)

Why the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability is a great place to work:

• Generous Annual Leave entitlement

• Free counselling and therapy sessions and other mental wellbeing support through our partner CIC Wellbeing 

• Get involved in our free on-site wellbeing programs, including weekly yoga, and monthly pottery club (we are the UK’s only hospital with its own kiln)!

• Draw down a percentage of your monthly wages a few weeks early to help with unexpected costs.

• Financial support services such as low-interest loans and help with savings accounts through our partnership with London Capital Credit Union.

• Join our wellbeing networks to connect with people in our hospital; we have a Pride network, Women’s network, and our Race Equality network. We also have heritage events to celebrate the diversity of our workforce – most recently we had a South East Asian celebration.

• Free on-site parking (rare in London!)

• More benefits: Cycle2Work scheme, tech purchase support scheme, Blue Light Card discounts, and more

For more details and a full Job Description, please click the apply now button to be re-directed to our careers page.

NWLLC is a community-based legal practice and a registered charity. We comprise the Brent Community Law Centre and Camden Community Law Centre.

NWLLC now works across northwest London supporting residents to understand and enforce their legal rights.  In doing so, we address the root causes of social injustice – poverty, family breakdown, unemployment and exploitation.

NWLLC provides full legal casework, representation and advice in the following areas of social welfare law – Housing, Immigration & Asylum and Welfare Rights. In 2024-25 we assisted over 3500 people. We represent clients in all courts and tribunals.

We provide outreach advice services in Brent and Camden including Camden Safety Net.

We also provide the housing duty solicitor schemes at Central London Country Court giving emergency representation in possession hearings for rent and owned homes and at the warrant stage for evictions.

To oversee and manage all financial and accounts record keeping and maintain all operations and compliance to ensure the smooth running of a legal practice.

Key Tasks

 Finance

1. Maintain our Quickbooks accounts system/ Clio Case Management System

2. Process payment requests, staff and volunteers expenses and invoices

3. Identify and follow up debtors

4. Monthly reconciliation and bookkeeping of all cards and accounts 

5. Assist with preparation of monthly management, year-end accounts and audit process

6. Work with the Director for the takeover of the calculation and reporting of the taxes owed by the law centre

7. Work with the Director to take over the administration of the NWLLC payroll and pension

8. Responsible for liaison with external accountants and auditors

Legal Practice and Billing

1. Preparing information and submitting for all monthly reports to the Legal Aid Agency, including CWA (Legal Help) and Court Duty submissions

2. Work with the Director to take over the preparation of work in progress reports

3. Work with the Director to prepare and disseminate monthly billing reports

4. Work with the Supervising solicitor and the SMT to identify cases to push through the billing process.

Location: Somerset Heritage Centre, Brunel Way, Norton Fitzwarren, Taunton, TA2 6SF
Salary: £39,909
Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday (occasional evening and weekend work)
Contract: Permanent

To apply please complete the South West Heritage Trust application form which can be found together with the recruitment pack in the links at the bottom of this advert. Please note that CVs are not accepted as applications

About the role

South West Heritage Trust is seeking an experienced and motivated Fundraising Manager to help strengthen our long-term financial sustainability and grow our charity fundraising activity. This is an exciting opportunity to join the Trust at a key point in its development and to shape our approach to fundraising as our first dedicated fundraising professional.

Working closely with colleagues across the organisation, the Fundraising Manager will identify and secure funding from trusts and foundations, develop opportunities for individual giving and legacy support, and establish effective systems and processes to support successful charity fundraising. The role will build a strong pipeline of funding opportunities to support exhibitions, learning programmes, collections work and the Trust’s wider strategic priorities.

This post sits within the Central Services team and reports to the Head of Development and Partnerships.
The South West Heritage Trust is a charity which delivers a broad range of heritage services across Somerset and Devon. We are a growing organisation, founded on services that were previously delivered by Somerset and Devon County Councils. With a turnover exceeding £5 million, we manage and run three museums (including the Museum of Somerset), two Archives and Local Studies services and look after the historic environment in Somerset.

We are committed to building an organisation as diverse as the communities we serve. Your application for this role will be welcomed whatever your background and regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and marriage or civil partnership.

If you would like to have an informal discussion or experience any difficulties with the recruitment process, please contact Ann Bradford (HR and Governance Manager)

Finance Manager

We are seeking an experienced charity finance professional with experience working in the UK regulatory environment, to support the financial health and sustainability of an international organisation.

Position: Finance Manager

Salary: £42,000 to £45,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications

Location: Remote, with occasional travel

Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: 9 October 2026

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to oversee the finance function of an international charity working alongside Indigenous and local communities to sustain biocultural diversity, strengthen traditional knowledge and cultivate justice, healing and belonging.

Supported by a Finance Officer and working closely with colleagues across the Leadership Team, you will oversee financial planning, management, reporting and compliance. You will help ensure that financial information and processes support effective decision-making and the long-term sustainability of the organisation.

Key responsibilities will include:

· Overseeing daily financial operations, payments, payroll and tax processes

· Coordinating the preparation of SORP-compliant financial statements

· Leading annual budgeting, forecasting, cash flow monitoring and management reporting

· Preparing financial reports for trustees, donors and internal stakeholders

· Supporting programme teams with budgets and monitoring expenditure

· Ensuring funding is used in accordance with donor and grant conditions

· Overseeing multi-currency transactions and international financial processes

· Managing the annual audit and working with external auditors

· Maintaining effective financial controls, policies and procedures

· Contributing financial insight to organisational planning, fundraising and risk management

· Supporting and developing the Finance Officer

About You

You may hold a recognised professional accountancy qualification or have developed substantial equivalent experience within a senior charity finance role.

You will have strong knowledge of charity finance, including SORP, statutory reporting, audit and financial controls. Experience of donor-funded programmes, restricted funding, international operations or multiple currencies would be particularly valuable.

You will be confident preparing and explaining financial information to non-financial colleagues, senior leaders and trustees. You will also be collaborative, highly organised and comfortable working independently within a remote and values-led organisation.

Experience of QuickBooks or Zoho Books would be helpful, although the ability to confidently use and develop financial systems is more important.

About the Organisation

The organisation works with changemakers and communities to sustain biocultural diversity and cultivate justice, healing and belonging.

For more than two decades, it has worked alongside Indigenous and local communities to strengthen traditional knowledge systems and develop locally rooted responses to ecological and social challenges. Its international network connects changemakers across different regions through mentoring, shared learning and collaborative action.

The organisation is committed to equality of opportunity and particularly welcomes applications from candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.

Candidates may be interviewed on a rolling basis, and the vacancy may close early if a suitable appointment is made.

Other roles you may have experience of could include Finance Manager, Charity Finance Manager, Senior Finance Manager, Management Accountant, Financial Controller, Head of Finance, International Finance Manager or Charity Accountant.

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

Senior Exercise and Wellbeing Officer

21 hours (3 days per week) Fixed-term contract to 31 March 2027, (potential to become permanent subject to funding) / Salary £18,211 Per annum (£30,352 Full Time equivalent)

A rewarding and varied role where you will make a real difference to the health, wellbeing and independence of older people.

Age UK Croydon is looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Senior Exercise and Wellbeing Officer to help guide our Healthy Lifestyles Service. Our Healthy Lifestyles Service delivers a range of activities including seated and standing exercise programmes, health checks, social engagement opportunities, health hubs and Memory Tree Cafés for people living with dementia and their carers. Services are delivered across community venues and care homes throughout Croydon.

About the Role

As our Senior Exercise and Wellbeing Officer, you will play a pivotal role in improving the health, wellbeing and independence of older people across the community. Working closely with the Healthy Lifestyles Service Manager, you will help shape and deliver a range of meaningful activities while providing day-to-day support and guidance to staff and volunteers.

Key responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

• Leading, supporting and motivating two Exercise and Wellbeing Officer and a dedicated team of volunteers.

• Delivering engaging seated and standing exercise sessions that help participants improve their mobility, strength, balance and confidence.

• Building and nurturing strong relationships with care homes, community venues, health professionals and partner organisations to maximise our reach and impact.

• Supporting the planning, development and continuous improvement of health and wellbeing programmes that make a real difference to people's lives.

This is a varied and rewarding role, offering the opportunity to combine leadership, partnership working and direct service delivery while helping older people stay active, connected and independent.

About You

We are looking for someone who is energetic, approachable and committed to supporting older people to live healthier, more connected lives. 

You will have:

• Level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification, Exercise Referral qualification, Otago Exercise Programme, REACT qualification, or another relevant physical activity, fitness, falls prevention or rehabilitation qualification.

• Experience of monitoring projects and reporting on outcomes and performance.

• Knowledge of the health and social care sector

• Strong communication, organisational and administrative skills

• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and database systems.

• Experience or qualifications in health promotion, nutrition, health checks, chair-based exercise or group exercise delivery.

• Experience of risk assessment and health and safety management. 

Closing date for applications: 28th September 2026

Interview Dates: TBC

 This post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check

About us

The Alliance for Youth Justice is an alliance of more than 70 non-profit organisations advocating with and for children to drive positive change in youth justice across England and Wales. We mobilise our members’ frontline expertise, children’s lived experience, and evidence from research to champion a child-centred, rights-based and trauma-informed system that treats contact with the justice system as a sign of unmet need and systemic failure, prioritises support over criminalisation and gives every child the opportunity to thrive.

We're widely recognised as the most influential group campaigning for improvements to the system, with trusted access to decision makers, working towards three goals: keeping children safe from the youth justice system through prevention and diversion; racial justice across the system; and custody as a last resort for children.

About the role

Following the launch of our new strategic approach, our Influencing Manager will lead the development and delivery of AYJ's influencing, policy, public affairs and campaigning work to shift policy, legislation, practice and public narratives.

Campaigning, policy and public affairs (70%) — lead our influencing strategy alongside the CEO, spot opportunities for systemic change, develop evidence-driven policy positions and briefings, and build relationships with members, politicians, civil servants and stakeholders.

Strategic communications (30%) — ensure the reach of our influencing, write high-impact influencing content for our digital channels, and act as first point of contact for media enquiries.

Anti-opressive, anti-racist practice and youth voice run through everything, including involving children and young people with lived experience safely and meaningfully in our work.

About you

You have a proven track record of influencing for systemic change through policy, public affairs, communications or campaigning within a voluntary sector organisation or coalition, and know how to turn complex policy and research into compelling written communications for varied audiences. You have a thorough understanding of the political environment and Parliament, strong relationship-building skills, and excellent project management. You bring a genuine interest in youth justice and the issues facing children in England and Wales, alongside a personal commitment to anti-racism, social justice and child rights.

Why join us

We're a small team of three punching well above our weight, with real scope to shape how we work and few layers of hierarchy. We offer flexible, trust-based home working (within core hours), plus 25 days' leave (pro rata), Christmas office closure, and a 5% employer pension contribution.

We encourage applications from historically marginalised groups even if you don't meet every requirement, and we do not use criminal records to exclude candidates.

Please download the reruitment pack to find out more and read the full job description and person specification.

UK Youth has launched an ambitious new strategy to widen the reach and deepen the impact of youth work and outdoor learning. At the heart of that strategy is a clear commitment: We Back Youth Work Leaders.

As our new Head of Network Development, you will turn that commitment into action.

You will lead the development and delivery of a powerful national offer that equips youth work leaders with the investment, support, relationships and connections they need to thrive. This includes leading our Grants+ approach—combining significant, multi-year grant funding with tailored organisational-development support—and developing partnerships that strengthen youth sector infrastructure locally, regionally and across the UK nations.

This role is about much more than managing a network. We are evolving towards a more relational way of working: listening deeply to youth-work leaders, understanding the realities they face, involving them in shaping our work and building relationships founded on trust, respect and shared purpose. You will ensure organisations can access the right support, expertise and opportunities—and that their insight continually shapes UK Youth’s work.

You will have the opportunity to lead the delivery of the £13 million UK Youth Fund, strengthen the resilience and effectiveness of grassroots youth organisations, and help create a more connected and equitable system of support for the wider sector.

We are looking for someone with deep knowledge and experience of youth work and the youth sector—someone who can talk the talk and walk the walk with youth organisation leaders. You will bring substantial experience of the youth work sector and infrastructure, organisational development and capacity building, alongside the strategic and operational leadership needed to deliver significant grant-making activity and complex partnerships.

You will be an inclusive and credible leader who can turn ambitious strategy into excellent delivery, bring people and organisations together, and remain focused on what youth work leaders need to succeed.

Across the country, youth workers are changing—and often saving—young lives. This is your opportunity to ensure the people and organisations doing that vital work have the investment, infrastructure and support they deserve.

Purpose of the job

The Head of Network Development will lead the operationalisation of UK Youth’s new We Back Youth Work Leaders strategic pillar. The role will turn our ambition to equip youth-work leaders with the skills, networks and confidence to deliver exceptional support into a coherent network development offer—leading our Grants+ approach of multi-year funding alongside tailored organisational development, and strengthening youth-sector infrastructure locally, regionally and across the UK nations.

Central to the role will be embedding UK Youth’s increasingly relational approach to its network: building trusted, mutually beneficial relationships with youth-work leaders; listening to and understanding their needs; involving them in shaping our support and connecting organisations to the right opportunities, expertise and infrastructure. Reporting to the Director of Network Delivery, the postholder will be responsible for translating this strategic ambition into high-quality, well-governed delivery, while ensuring that learning and insight from the network continually improve our work and contribute to securing sustainable investment in youth work and outdoor learning.

Why work at UK Youth?

Every young person deserves a youth worker. UK Youth exists to make that a reality. Our vision is a society that backs every young person - through each spark, struggle and success.

As the UK’s national infrastructure body for youth work, we strengthen and champion a diverse network of youth organisations, unlock investment, shape policy and build the evidence base for what works. At a time of growing need and inequality of access, our work has never been more important.

We are entering an exciting new phase of our strategy - focused on long-term resilience, income diversification and a transformational Capital Appeal to develop Avon Tyrrell as a national centre of excellence for outdoor learning. Joining UK Youth means being part of an ambitious, impact-driven organisation committed to strengthening youth work for generations to come.

Key responsibilities

 Portfolio leadership and delivery

• Lead the strategic and operational delivery of UK Youth’s network development portfolio, translating organisational strategy and funded commitments into clear plans, outcomes, budgets, milestones and accountabilities.

• Ensure programmes and services are delivered to a high standard, on time and within budget, with effective governance, performance management, risk control and escalation to the Director of Network Delivery.

• Mobilise new initiatives and partnerships, establishing proportionate delivery models, systems, teams and governance arrangements.

• Lead continuous improvement across the portfolio, responding effectively to evidence, partner feedback, changing needs and the external environment.

• Be a champion of UK Youth’s network across all of UK Youth’s work.

Grant making and organisational development

• Lead the delivery of UK Youth’s significant, multi-year grant-making portfolio, including the £13 million UK Youth Fund, ensuring responsible stewardship of charitable and restricted funds.

• Ensure effective management of the full grant lifecycle, including programme design, application and assessment, due diligence, decision-making, contracting, payments, monitoring, reporting, complaints and closure.

• Maintain robust and proportionate grant governance, financial controls, safeguarding assurance, risk management, data quality and compliance with funder and regulatory requirements.

• Lead an integrated organisational development offer alongside grant funding, enabling smaller youth and outdoor learning organisations to strengthen their financial sustainability, leadership, governance, workforce and resilience.

• Embed open, trusting, accessible and equitable grant-making practice, reducing unnecessary barriers while maintaining appropriate accountability.

Network and sector infrastructure support

• Develop and deliver UK Youth’s approach to engaging, connecting and supporting our national network, informed by the needs and experiences of youth work leaders and organisations.

• Create opportunities for peer learning, collaboration, knowledge exchange and access to relevant support across the network.

• Lead major initiatives that strengthen youth sector infrastructure locally, regionally and nationally, working with partners to improve the consistency, coordination and accessibility of support.

• Support regional and national partners to understand need, develop shared plans and approaches, and deliver locally relevant infrastructure and organisational support.

• Work with the Communications Team and relevant colleagues to ensure network communications are timely, accessible, coordinated and purposeful.

Experience we're after

• Substantial leadership experience within the youth sector, grounded in an in-depth understanding of youth work practice, youth work leadership and the realities facing youth organisations and their leaders.

• Experience of leading a complex, multi-year network development or comparable portfolio, translating strategy and funded commitments into successful delivery and managing significant budgets and risks.

• Experience of leading substantial grant making or onward funding activity, including governance, due diligence, financial oversight, risk and accountability.

• Substantial organisational development and capacity building experience, including diagnosing organisational needs and designing practical support that strengthens leadership, governance, financial sustainability, workforce and resilience.

• Experience of developing networks, partnerships or infrastructure across multiple organisations, regions or systems, with demonstrable credibility among youth organisation leaders.

What we can offer you

We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance, excellent learning and development opportunities and vibrant organisational culture:

• Flexible/Agile Working

• 27 days annual leave (24 days + 3 days winter closure) plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)

• Funded training provided in; Safeguarding, GDPR, Information and Cyber Security & Equality & Diversity

• Other training available in support of your personal and professional development

• Pension scheme (currently UK Youth match employee contributions up to 5%)

• Membership of our life insurance scheme which would pay-out up to 4 times your salary

• Employee Assistance Programme to support employees both professionally and personally

• 20% discount off bookings at Avon Tyrrell, our New Forest Outdoor Centre, including camping, lodges and outdoor activities.

• IT equipment provided for the duration of contract

• CycleScheme and TechScheme

How to apply

If you would like to be considered for this fantastic opportunity, please complete an application via our completely anonymised recruitment system provided by Applied which looks to create a fair and unbiased application process for all. Scroll to the top of the page and start your application.

Closing date: 29th September 2026 at 09:00

Provisional First Stage Interview Dates: 5th & 6th October 2026

Provisional Final Stage Interview Dates (in person): 9th October 2026

As this role involves working in a regulated environment with young people, any offer will be conditional to satisfactory background checks, which include criminal record check and employment reference.

Please note CVs will be reviewed as the first stage of the recruitment process. Candidates who are shortlisted following the CV review will then have their sift questions assessed. Only candidates who meet the requirements at both stages will progress further in the recruitment process.

At One YMCA, we work alongside young people to help them develop confidence, skills, resilience, and positive futures. We are looking for an inspiring, experienced and motivated Youth Work Manager to lead and develop our local youth work provision, ensuring that high-quality, impactful services reach young people across our communities.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in delivering our Youth Work Strategy, managing a dedicated team, driving quality and developing services that make a real difference in the lives of young people.

About the role:

Reporting to the Head of Youth Work, you will take operational responsibility for the delivery, development, monitoring, and quality assurance of our youth work services. You will lead and support Youth Work Coordinators and wider youth work staff, ensuring services are safe, effective, youth-centred, and aligned with One YMCA's strategic priorities.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the development and delivery of youth work programmes, specialist support services, mentoring initiatives, life skills courses, and large-scale youth events.
• Managing and supporting staff through recruitment, induction, supervision, training, and performance development.
• Monitoring contract performance, outcomes, impact data, and key performance indicators to demonstrate the difference our services make.
• Building strong relationships with schools, local authorities, partner agencies, and community stakeholders.
• Leading quality assurance, compliance, safeguarding, and continuous improvement across the service.
• Acting as Designated Safeguarding Lead and participating in the safeguarding on-call rota.
• Working with young people and teams to ensure youth voice is at the heart of everything we do.

We're looking for someone who combines strong operational leadership, experience in managing contractual compliance, with a genuine commitment to young people.

You will bring:

• Significant experience delivering and managing youth work programmes, projects, or contracts.
• A strong understanding of issues affecting young people's lives and a passion for helping them achieve positive outcomes.
• Experience leading, motivating, and developing staff teams.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and partnership-working skills.
• The ability to analyse data, monitor impact, and use insight to improve services.
• A youth work or related community-focused qualification at degree level, or significant equivalent experience.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes.

Location: Home-based role but with regular travel to YMCA youth work delivery sites across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, as well as to support the broader youth work within One YMCA. 

Driving licence and access to a car is essential for this role.

If you are an experienced youth work leader ready for your next challenge, we would love to hear from you! 

Important: Please include a supporting statement with your application/CV.

We do not provide visa sponsorship; you must be eligible to work in the UK. You must reside in the UK for the duration of your employment and provide Right to Work evidence.

As some of our roles involve working with vulnerable members of society, this position may require a Basic or Enhanced Criminal Disclosure, which will be conducted once a conditional offer is made

Previous Applications: We welcome applications from all qualified candidates. However, if you have applied for a similar role within the last 6 months and were not successful, please consider whether your experience has developed further before reapplying

Accessibility & Adjustments: We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and will strive to be as accommodating as possible. Please inform us in advance of any arrangements you may need to fully participate in the process.

At One YMCA we are an inclusive organisation and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We do not discriminate on the basis of Age, Disability, Gender Reassignment, Marriage/Civil Partnership, Pregnancy/Maternity, Race, Religion/Belief, Sex and/or Sexual Orientation. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities, and industries, and are committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills, experiences, and abilities.

Working hours: 37.5 hours per week, generally Monday to Friday but with flexibility of working pattern to support both the ideal candidate and business need. Some evening work expected, and occasional weekend, overnight stays or residential work.

You’ll be at the helm of a busy, welcoming centre that brings residential stays, day visits, camping and outdoor activities to guiding groups, schools, youth groups, corporate teams, families and friends. That variety is part of what makes the role so rewarding. No two days look the same, and that’s exactly the point.
This is a senior role with real scope and real responsibility. You’ll lead a team, set the tone for high standards across the site, manage the practical realities of running a working centre, and help shape its future direction in line with Girlguiding Anglia’s values and ambitions. You’ll have the chance to think strategically about where the centre goes next while staying hands on with the day to day running that keeps a place like Hautbois thriving.
We’re after someone positive, proactive and organised, who leads with warmth as much as with structure. You’ll need to be comfortable holding multiple priorities at once, calm under pressure, and genuinely motivated by creating great experiences for the people who come through the centre’s doors. If you enjoy variety, thrive on responsibility and want your work to have a visible, lasting impact, this role offers all of that in abundance.
The role is based at Hautbois, right in the Norfolk countryside. Flexible working may be possible where it suits the business, though some evenings and weekends will be part of the job given the nature of a residential site. The centre isn’t easily reached by public transport, so a car and full driving licence are essential for commuting and the occasional meeting further afield.
In return, you’ll get free parking, office drinks and snacks, a holiday allowance that grows with your length of service, and modern IT and working facilities to support you in the role.
This role might also suit candidates with backgrounds as an activities manager, camp manager, adventure manager, outdoor learning manager or residential centre manager.