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About School of Hard Knocks

School of Hard Knocks (SOHK) is one of the UK’s leading education charities, working in 29 secondary schools across England, Scotland, and Wales. Using rugby as a key delivery tool, we support young people who are struggling to engage in early secondary education - often because of anxiety, low confidence, disrupted home lives, or behavioural challenges rooted in trauma. For many of the children we support, life has already brought more hardship than most adults experience in a lifetime. Our purpose is clear: to help young people facing complex challenges break the cycle and move towards a safer, stronger, more hopeful future.

The SOHK Schools Programme is a two-year intervention working with cohorts of around 20 pupils from Year 7 through to Year 9. Pupils are selected by the school and are typically among the hardest to reach young people. Each week, we deliver half a day of rugby training and classroom sessions built around our 3Cs framework, covering topics such as growth mindset, goal setting, and decision-making, alongside monthly one-to-one sessions with every pupil. The programme’s impact is evaluated by SOHK staff, teachers, parents, and the pupils themselves.

90% of our participants report feeling more confident and more engaged with school after taking part, with long-term effects on attendance, attainment, and life outcomes. Find out more about our Schools Programme.

Since 2023, SOHK has been proud to partner with Impetus, a charity that invests in and supports organisations helping young people from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed. This partnership combines investment with strategic and organisational development support, helping to strengthen our impact and set SOHK up for sustainable growth.

We are proud to be delivering long-term programmes that meaningfully reach hundreds of young people each year - but the societal need is vast. Our ambitious four-year strategic plan targets growth, aiming to bring our impactful programme to hundreds more young people each year.

“Despite the usual challenges that every education or sport for development charity faces, School of Hard Knocks really is unique. It is not so much what we deliver at a programme level (which is of course brilliant) but who we are as a team. If you are a values-led leader and love the idea of ‘team’, then School of Hard Knocks is the place for you.”

- Ken Cowen, Founder and outgoing CEO

The Role

The CEO is the public face and leader of SOHK, responsible for the overall strategic direction, vision, and management of the charity - ensuring SOHK meets its mission and strategic objectives while maintaining strong relationships with Trustees, staff, supporters, and the wider SOHK community. We’re looking for a mission-driven charity leader and effective fundraiser, capable of building a sustainable growth model.

Strategy and Direction

● Be the face and voice of the charity - its principal ambassador

● Lead the development and periodic review of SOHK’s strategy with the Trustees and Senior Management Team

● Translate the 2026-30 strategy into organisational priorities, plans, and goals

● Ensure safeguarding, wellbeing, and the lived experience of young people remain central to every decision and growth plan

Programme Delivery, Quality and Impact

● Hold a high bar for programme quality and outcomes for young people

● Line-manage and support the Director of Programmes, working with delivery teams and partners to build a world-class, evidence-based intervention

● Ensure SOHK can evidence the impact of its programmes, with insights feeding back into constant improvement

Income Generation, Fundraising and External Relations

● Lead income generation across trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, individual giving, and challenges and events

● Line-manage and support the Head of Fundraising in executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy

● Hold senior relationships with funders and partners, building SOHK’s brand, reputation, and profile

Leading People, Culture and Operations

● Build and lead a high-performing Senior Management Team

● Foster a positive, inclusive, high-performing culture aligned with SOHK’s values

● Line-manage and support the Director of Finance & Operations, ensuring operational excellence

Governance and the Board

● Act as the primary link between the organisation and the Trustees

● Attend all Trustee meetings (held quarterly) and provide timely, accurate reporting

● Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and Charity Commission requirements

About You

Essential

● Proven senior leadership experience in the charity, education, youth, or social impact sector - whether as CEO or as part of an executive team - including working directly with a Board of Trustees

● Demonstrated success in building or significantly growing an organisation, programme, or initiative

● A collaborative and values-led leadership style, with the ability to inspire trust, hold people to account, and build high-performing teams

● Strong track record of income generation, including securing significant funding from trusts, foundations, corporates, or major donors

● Experience of financial oversight, budgeting, and organisational planning at a senior level

● Strategic thinker, able to translate vision into clear plans and delivery

● Strong relationship-builder and communicator, confident with a wide range of stakeholders

Desirable

● Previous charity CEO experience - a bonus, but not essential; we know brilliant candidates come from a wide range of backgrounds

● Direct classroom, youth work, or education leadership experience

● Knowledge of the UK education system and youth policy landscape

● Experience of scaling a multi-site delivery organisation and working with local authorities

Personal Attributes

● Deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people, especially those facing disadvantage

● Resilient and persistent, able to work under pressure and navigate setbacks

● Collaborative, open, and reflective leader who seeks feedback and learns from it

Terms of Appointment

Contract type

Full-time, permanent

Location

Greater London, with offices in Edinburgh & Cardiff

Salary

£85,000 – £90,000 per year + £5,000 PRP

Reports to

Chair of the Board of Trustees

Direct reports

Director of Programmes; Head of Fundraising; Director of Finance & Operations

Travel

Regular UK travel, primarily to Edinburgh and Cardiff. Occasional evenings for stakeholder engagement and fundraising events

Trustee meetings

Quarterly, in London, in the evening, plus ad hoc subcommittees

An exciting opportunity!

This is a rare and genuinely exciting opportunity to lead the UK's only dedicated charity supporting children, adults and families affected by MPS, Fabry disease and related lysosomal storage disorders. Following the current Chief Executive's planned move to become Managing Director of Rare Disease Research Partners (RDRP) in January 2027, the incoming CEO will take the helm of an organisation with over forty years of history, a trusted national reputation and a growing role on the international rare disease stage. The successful candidate will shape the strategic vision for more than 1,800 families, oversee the close partnership between the Society and its research subsidiary RDRP, and champion the patient and family ethos that sits at the heart of the organisation's work. It is an opportunity to combine ambitious strategic leadership with deeply meaningful, human impact, working alongside a committed Board, Senior Leadership Team and wider community of clinicians, researchers and pharmaceutical partners.

As our next Chief Executive, you will

• Define and deliver the MPS Society’s strategic vision.
• Provide confident oversight of governance, finance, compliance and reporting.
• Effectively manage the operational alignment between the MPS Society and RDRP.
• Always keep the members and family voice at the heart of strategy, service design and decision-making.
• Build and maintain senior-level relationships with statutory bodies, government agencies, pharmaceutical partners, clinical expert centres and other key stakeholders to support the Society’s objectives, influence policy and practice, and protect its professional reputation.
• Act as a visible and credible public voice to raise awareness, improve visibility, support, treatment access and outcomes for people affected by MPS, Fabry disease and related conditions.
• Collaborate with other rare disease bodies, patient organisations and other key audiences.
• Lead and empower the senior leadership team through effective delegation, early involvement in strategic discussions, clear accountability and support for individuals to flourish.
• Encourage an open, supportive work environment allowing creativity and building staff confidence.
• Help shape the future of the MPS Society.

About you

•  Self-motivated, with the drive to lead the organisation through a period of change and transition.
• Unquestionable probity and personal integrity, given the trust placed in the CEO by families, trustees and partners.
• Exemplary written and verbal communication skills, able to convey complex scientific and clinical information to audiences ranging from clinicians to families with no prior knowledge of MPS disorders.
• Strong self-awareness, with insight into their own leadership style and impact on others.
• Emotional resilience, able to sustain performance while supporting a community facing life limiting conditions.
• A collaborative and empowering leadership style, able to build trust, delegate effectively and help individuals across the organisation flourish.
• Genuine passion for the Society's mission, with a family and member-first ethos.
• Confidence to build relationships across a wide range of stakeholders, from beneficiaries and Trustees to politicians, media and pharmaceutical partners.
• A proactive, positive approach, comfortable reacting to change and organising their own work to meet deadlines.
• Confidence speaking publicly on behalf of the organisation and the people it represents.

Why join us?

A close-knit, values-led culture. With just over thirty staff across the Society and RDRP combined, this is a place where the CEO can know the team personally, work closely with families day-to-day, and see the direct results of decisions rather than managing at a distance through layers of bureaucracy.

• Genuine autonomy to shape direction. The Board is explicitly looking to the new CEO to bring fresh thinking on technology, AI, and digital tools, and to give real freedom to modernise fundraising, services, and engagement rather than simply maintaining what already exists.
• A stable foundation to build from over forty years of track record, trusted relationships and a strong national reputation mean the incoming CEO can focus energy on vision and growth rather than firefighting or rebuilding credibility from scratch.
• Proximity to cutting-edge science: the Society's close relationship with RDRP gives the CEO regular exposure to advances in rare disease research and treatment access, while day-to-day research leadership sits with the RDRP Managing Director, allowing the CEO to focus on strategy, people and sustainability.
• A high-visibility, high-influence platform. Regular contact with government, pharmaceutical companies, clinicians and international rare disease bodies offers strong opportunities to build a public profile and personal network well beyond the charity sector.
• A team that already shares the mission. Staff are described as passionate about the Society's aims, and as having a family-first ethos, so the new CEO inherits a culture to lead and empower rather than one that needs to be built from the ground up.
• Work with a different kind of return. Beyond salary and career progression, this role offers the less tangible reward of knowing that strategic and financial decisions translate, into better support for families facing some of the rarest conditions in the country.

Benefits

Join us and you will be working for a caring charity offering:

• A competitive salary
• Generous annual leave
• Extra leave between Christmas and the New Year
• Contributory pension
• Life assurance (subject to the conditions of the scheme)
• Employee assistance programme offering support 24/7

Further information

The successful candidate must be eligible to work in the UK.

The main duties, responsibilities and requirements of this role can be viewed in the job description on our website.

Salary to be agreed depending on experience and will be pro-rata for part time hours.

This is an essential car user post. The applicant must hold a current UK driver’s licence, with no more than 6 points, have access to a car and be able and willing to drive UK wide as required.

This senior role requires flexibility in working hours and location.  It is primarily offered on a hybrid basis with a minimum of 2 days in our Amersham, Buckinghamshire, office each week. As part of the role, UK and overseas travel is necessary, which may on occasion include early morning and/or evening working and sometimes overnight stays. We have policies in place to ensure that any unsociable hours worked over the weekend are fairly compensated through TOIL.

This role will require an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check (DBS) details of which can be found in the job description.

For an informal discussion about the role or the work of the MPS Society, please contact Dr Fiona Stewart.  Contact details can be found on the full job description. Kindly note, meetings with other relevant people will be available to shortlisted candidates at interview stage.  

Lead the next chapter for liver health in the UK

This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected and financially stable health charity at a pivotal moment of transformation.
Following a successful merger, the organisation has proudly just completed a full rebrand to Liver UK, bringing together services, information and advocacy across all ages. With a clear, trustee-approved strategy for 2026–2032 already in place, the next Chief Executive will focus on delivery, growth and national influence.

A strong platform and a planned transition

This role comes at a natural and positive point within a planned leadership transition.Our current Chief Executive has provided long-standing, successful leadership and is excited to hand over the rebranded charity for it to be led into its next phase of strategic development, sustainability and growth.
The incoming CEO will inherit a well-led organisation with strong governance, a clear strategic direction, and real momentum.

About the role

As Chief Executive, you will lead delivery of an established strategy, ensuring the organisation continues to grow its reach, impact and income.You will work closely with an engaged and supportive Board of Trustees to maintain high standards of governance, regulatory compliance and risk management, while strengthening the charity’s voice in national policy and public affairs.
This is a role that balances external influence with internal leadership, ensuring both impact and organisational resilience.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver a trustee-approved long-term strategy, refining priorities as needed
• Ensure robust governance, legal and regulatory compliance
• Lead policy, public affairs and national influencing activity
• Maintain financial sustainability and drive income growth
• Lead and develop a high-performing Senior Management Team
• Oversee delivery of high-quality services and information

About you

You are a credible and values-driven leader with senior experience in the charity, health or related sectors.
You will bring:

• Proven senior leadership experience at Director or Chief Executive Officer level
• Strong understanding of governance, finance and regulatory compliance
• Experience influencing policy and working with senior stakeholders
• A track record of delivering organisational growth and impact
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

You will be confident working with a Board of Trustees, able to build strong relationships, provide clear advice, and operate effectively in a governance-led environment. 

You will be motivated by improving health outcomes and confident leading an organisation with both national influence and strong operational delivery.

Why join us?

• A clear, trustee-approved strategy ready for delivery
• Strong governance, financial stability and organisational foundations
• A positive and well-managed leadership transition
• The opportunity to shape a newly unified, UK-wide charity
• A chance to make a meaningful difference in an under-recognised area of health
• A strong, engaged and motivated Board

A competitive salary will be offered, reflecting the experience, skills and leadership qualities of the successful candidate.

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Safeguarding sits at the heart of life at The Perse School. We are seeking an exceptional leader to join our senior team as Assistant Head (Safeguarding), taking strategic responsibility for safeguarding and child protection across our 3 Cambridge schools and serving as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for the Upper School.

This is a significant leadership opportunity for an experienced safeguarding professional who can combine expertise, sound judgement and compassion to ensure every pupil feels safe, supported and able to flourish. The successful candidate will lead safeguarding strategy and practice, oversee complex child protection matters, provide guidance and training to colleagues, and work closely with pupils, families, staff, governors and external agencies.

We welcome applications from experienced teachers, educational leaders and safeguarding professionals from related sectors. While experience in education is highly desirable, we are equally interested in candidates who have developed substantial safeguarding expertise through social care, local authority safeguarding services, the LADO function or other child protection settings.

The Perse enjoys a prestigious reputation and values a mixed approach to teaching and learning. We aim to respect tradition and innovation, industry and fun, and academic and personal growth. All teachers and pupils are required to demonstrate all-round excellence and contribute to the academic, pastoral and extra-curricular life of the school. 

At The Perse School, we value the well-being of all staff and offer a supportive environment that balances professional ambitions with personal growth, opportunity and work-life balance.

Further details including how to apply can be obtained from our website: Work with us - The Perse School Cambridge

Closing date: Friday 18th September at 9.00am. Interviews will be a two stage process; preliminary online on Wednesday 23rd September followed by in person for successful candidates in the week commencing 28th September.

The School actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

Safer Recruitment

The Perse School recognises that an important element in safeguarding our pupils is a robust recruitment process that incorporates measures to deter, reject or identify people who might abuse children, or who are otherwise unsuited to work with them. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post including: references from previous employers, a Disclosure and Barring Service check at the enhanced level, as well as eligibility to work in the UK (in compliance with UK immigration regulations).All work carried out at the School on a regular basis amounts to regulated activity.  This role is also exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone's responsibility. The School is committed to acting in the best interests of the child so as to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people. The School requires everyone who comes into contact with children and their families to share this commitment. Interviews will be conducted in person, and they will explore candidates’ suitability to work with children.

Lead a Transformational Fundraising Vision – Shape the Future of Epilepsy Research

Epilepsy Society is entering one of the most ambitious chapters in its 130‑year history. A landmark planning decision has unlocked an anticipated £93 million to accelerate pioneering research, advanced diagnostics and scientific innovation, enabling us to become the world’s largest epilepsy research centre. We are now seeking a Director of Fundraising & Marketing who can turn this moment into momentum.

This is a strategic leadership role for someone who excels at setting vision, building capability and inspiring others. You will define the fundraising and marketing strategy for a new era, shaping the propositions, partnerships and profile that will fuel discovery and deliver impact for the 630,000 people living with epilepsy across the UK.

You will work at the intersection of science, philanthropy and influence: partnering with world‑leading researchers, engaging major donors and foundations, and elevating Epilepsy Society’s voice as a leader in neurological research and innovation. Your leadership will ensure we have the visibility, credibility and investment required to accelerate breakthroughs and improve lives.

If you are energised by building something significant, we would be delighted to hear from you.

About Epilepsy Society

Epilepsy Society is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to transforming the lives of people affected by epilepsy through world‑class research, specialist medical care and trusted information. Our partnership with UCL places us at the forefront of global scientific discovery, while our clinical services, advocacy and support ensure that lived experience shapes everything we do.

We are now embarking on a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to expand our research and medical centre, invest in cutting‑edge technology and accelerate personalised treatment for people with the most complex needs. Realising this potential requires deeper partnerships, greater visibility and sustainable income growth.

About You

You are a strategic fundraising and marketing leader who brings:

• A track record of shaping high‑value fundraising strategies and securing transformational support.
• The credibility to influence at Board, executive and senior stakeholder level.
• Experience building ambitious teams, cultures and capabilities.
• The ability to translate scientific innovation into compelling, investable propositions.
• A strategic mindset paired with the judgement, presence and relationship‑building skills needed to operate at the highest levels.

You thrive in environments where you can build, shape and lead, and where your work directly accelerates scientific progress and improves lives.

If you want to play a part in creating a future where people with epilepsy are understood, supported and empowered, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Closing date: Tuesday 29th September at 9am

Who we are

Bipolar UK is the only national charity dedicated to building a better world together for everyone affected by bipolar disorder. For more than 40 years, peer support has been at the heart of everything we do. Through our support services, research and campaign work, we empower thousands of people a month to stay well and we have the ambition to reach many thousands more.

About the role

Our next Chief Executive will lead Bipolar UK through this next stage, building on strong foundations while strengthening how the organisation works. You will drive collaboration, clearer accountability and confident decision-making across our organisation.

Financial sustainability will also be important. We have healthy reserves and have invested significantly in fundraising capability. As our new CEO, you will work with colleagues and trustees to strengthen and diversify sustainable income, develop external relationships and ensure our resources can support greater reach and impact.

You will work closely with our Chair and trustees, building an effective relationship between Board and executive leadership. You will also represent Bipolar UK externally, developing partnerships and increasing understanding of bipolar while ensuring lived experience continues to shape our voice and decisions.

Who we are looking for

You will bring substantial senior leadership experience and the ability to lead across people, resources, strategy and delivery. Previous CEO experience would be valuable given the breadth of the role, although we remain open to leaders who can demonstrate comparable organisation-wide responsibility.

You will understand financial sustainability and income development, know how to build an effective senior team and be comfortable working with an engaged Board. You will bring sound judgement, an inclusive leadership approach and the ability to build trust with different communities and stakeholders.

Experience within charities, mental health or health would be valuable, although we welcome different backgrounds. Direct or indirect lived experience of bipolar or mental health challenges is welcomed, but is not a requirement. What matters is your ability to listen, understand and lead authentically within an organisation shaped by lived experience.

If you connect with Bipolar UK’s work and believe your leadership could help us reach and support many more people, we would be pleased to hear from you.

Human Resources Director

Permanent | Hybrid Working (50% London Office Attendance - non contractual) | London

Hays are delighted to be working exclusively with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) to appoint a Human Resources Director.
This is a rare opportunity to join a globally recognised, purpose-led organisation at a pivotal point in its evolution. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, the HR Director will provide visible leadership across a London-based international HR and Learning & Development function, supporting a workforce operating across around 24 countries.

The role offers the opportunity to build on the significant progress already made within the HR function and help shape and deliver its next stage of maturity. You will play a critical role in ensuring the organisation continues to attract, develop and retain talented people while providing expert advice on complex people matters across multiple international jurisdictions.

The Opportunity

This is a genuinely hands-on HR Director role. Working closely with the Chief Operating Officer, Executive Committee and senior stakeholders worldwide, you will lead a developing HR function through its next phase of growth and continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Providing strategic and operational leadership across the HR and Learning & Development function
• Leading HR operations across the full employee lifecycle including recruitment, reward, employee relations, compliance, systems and people data
• Acting as a trusted adviser to the Chief Operating Officer and senior leadership team on complex and sensitive people matters
• Leading and developing an HR team and supporting continued capability growth
• Reviewing, maintaining and improving HR policies, processes and governance frameworks across multiple countries
• Ensuring compliance with employment legislation and HR best practice across multiple international jurisdictions
• Driving consistency and best practice across international HR operations
• Leading annual reward and pay review processes
• Overseeing HR systems, reporting and people analytics to support business decision-making
• Working closely with leaders to strengthen management capability and performance across the organisation

About You

We are keen to speak with credible and experienced HR leaders who can demonstrate:

• Significant experience leading a broad HR function at Head of HR, HR Director or equivalent level with experience leading and developing HR teams
• Proven recent experience operating across multiple countries and international employment environments
• Strong expertise across employee relations, recruitment, reward, policy, compliance and HR operations
• Experience in supporting senior leaders and advising on complex people matters
• Experience improving systems and governance frameworks
• Strong commercial judgement and the ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Chartered CIPD membership (or equivalent senior HR qualification)
• Degree-level education or equivalent senior professional experience

Whilst sector background is flexible, candidates must demonstrate a genuine interest in working within a mission-led organisation and be motivated by the opportunity to contribute to the MSC's environmental and sustainability goals.

Why Join MSC?

The MSC's vision is for the world's oceans to be teeming with life, and seafood supplies safeguarded for this and future generations. Today, the impacts of overfishing and climate change pose an even greater threat to the ocean and fish stocks. Through our internationally recognised certification and ecolabeling program, well-managed sustainable fisheries are recognised and rewarded throughout the seafood supply chain. Over 700 fisheries around the world, representing 19% of the annual global marine catch, are now engaged in the MSC program and MSC certified and labelled seafood products are now available in over 66 countries. Through partnerships and collective endeavour, we are on a mission to end overfishing.

This is an opportunity to join an organisation with real purpose while leading and developing a high-performing international HR function during an exciting period of growth and change.

Additional Information

• Permanent position
• Hybrid working model, which is non-contractual (minimum 50% office attendance)
• London-based role
• 25 days annual leave
• Enhanced pension arrangements
• Life assurance
• International exposure and stakeholder engagement
• Significant opportunity to influence organisational culture, capability and people strategy

If you are an experienced HR leader with international experience, strong operational capability and a passion for building high-performing organisations, we would love to hear from you.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

About the RoleAn exciting opportunity has arisen for an Organisational Development Advisor to support the delivery of strategic people and culture initiatives within a leading Higher Education institution. Working closely with academic and professional services leaders, you will help drive organisational effectiveness, leadership development, employee engagement, and workforce capability projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with schools, faculties, and professional services teams to deliver OD initiatives and people-focused projects.
• Support manager and leadership development, team effectiveness interventions, and career development support during change.
• Design and facilitate workshops, briefings, and learning interventions and provide 1:1 coaching.
• Provide advice and support to managers on organisational development and workforce capability activities.
• Monitor and evaluate OD programmes, using data and feedback to measure impact and inform improvements.

About You

• CIPD qualified (or equivalent) with experience in Organisational Development, Learning & Development, or HR.
• Experience delivering people, culture, leadership, or organisational change initiatives within a complex organisation.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and build relationships across diverse teams.
• Higher Education or public sector experience is highly desirable.

Why Apply?This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a people strategy that supports organisational excellence, staff development, and a positive workplace culture within a dynamic Higher Education environment.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Job titleChief Executive

ContractPermanent / Full time (35 hours a week)

Location London / hybrid (regular London presence)

Salary£95,000 - £100,000

Benefits Up to 6.5% matched pension, total contributions of 13%.
28 days annual leave per year plus public holidays.
Enhanced sick leave cover of up to 5 years.
Death in service benefit of 2x annual salary.
Employee Assistance scheme.
Working from home allowance.
Annual wellbeing allowance.

Reports to Chair and Board of Trustees

Direct reportsDirector of Finance and Operations
Director of Evidence and Improvement
Policy and Communications Manager
People and Business Partner

Background information

About us:

National Voices is the leading coalition of health and social care charities in England. We have more than 200 members covering a diverse range of health conditions and communities, connecting us with the experiences of millions of people. We work together to strengthen the voice of patients, people with Lived Experience, unpaid carers, their families and the voluntary organisations that work for them.

Our mission:

We advocate for a more equitable and person-centred health and care, shaped by the people who use and need it the most.

We do this by:

- Understanding and advocating for what matters to people, especially those living with health conditions and groups who experience inequalities

- Finding common cause across communities and conditions by working with member charities and those they support

- Connecting and convening charities, decisions makers and citizens to work together to change health and care for good.

Our five-year strategy:

In September 2024 we published a new five-year strategy that was co-produced with our staff, our member charities, our Lived Experience Partners and our key stakeholders. This set out three clear goals:

- End unequal access
By addressing the barriers experienced by those facing the worst outcomes, we will find solutions that improve care for all.

- Transfer power to people and communities
As a leader in co-production, we will help communities to work with system leaders at national and neighbourhood level to make big decisions together. This will maximise the skills and capabilities of patients, ensuring care is truly person-centred.

- Shift the measures of success
By campaigning for better patient experience and outcomes metrics, we can ensure that what matters to people becomes the key measure of success for the NHS.

In the first two years of the strategy we have already made big strides. For example, our work encouraging the Government to focus on “getting the basics right” has seen major policy initiatives designed to fix access to primary care and the 8am rush. Similarly, our work on the experience of waiting for elective care has seen the introduction of the first ever set of minimum standards for waiting.

Our work on the 10 Year Plan, and on the Quality Strategy, has also seen both patient experience and outcome measures given much greater prominence in how the NHS judges success and National Voices has now been commissioned by NHS England to help design the future of patient feedback mechanisms.

We have also successfully campaigned for funding formulas to be revised to enable the NHS to directly address the inverse care law and tackle the impact of health inequalities head on.

But there are challenges ahead, not least the role patients and communities play directly in co-producing improvement. With ICBs under huge financial pressures, and so much change in the health and care system, we need to make sure every piece of work we deliver is of the highest quality and adds real value. This is the only way to help others across the sector understand the value that people with Lived Experience offer to problem solving processes and creating better and more inclusive solutions.

PLEASE SEE RECRUITMENT PACK FOR FULL DETAILS AND APPLICATION GUIDANCE

Who Are We Looking For? 

We are seeking an experienced Associate Trainer to deliver high-quality training and workshops across Northern Ireland on behalf of Ygam as and when required. Although remote working, they would need to be living in NI for travel and delivery purposes. This position is offered on a self-employed associate basis (contract for services). The post holder will facilitate engaging learning experiences, maintain high standards of safeguarding and quality assurance, and contribute to Ygam's mission by helping professionals understand and respond to gaming and gambling-related harms affecting children and young people.

The role is ideal for an experienced trainer, educator or youth practitioner with strong facilitation skills and knowledge of safeguarding, education or public health, who is passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people.  You will be confident working independently and remotely, while also collaborating effectively as part of a team.

You will be skilled at adapting training delivery to meet the needs of different audiences and contexts, ensuring sessions are inclusive, engaging and responsive to participant needs.

Ygam is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and welcome applicants from underrepresented backgrounds, including people with lived experience of gaming and gambling harms, people with disabilities, people from minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ people, neurodivergent people and armed forces veterans. 

Main Role and Responsibilities

You will be responsible for delivering training across Ygam’s portfolio of programmes, including education, youth work, health, social care, community and sporting sectors.

You will lead workshops and training both online and face to face. The role will support professionals, parents, carers and young people to understand and help prevent gaming and gambling harms. It will focus on using education to increase awareness of the social, environmental and commercial influences, including the practices of the industries, that can shape behaviours and increase the risk of harm among young people.

A crucial element of your role will be updating all relevant records and CRM systems.

You will be required to market additional learning, resources, and training opportunities to delegates and to promote the work of Ygam at conferences and events.

Role Requirements

Duties will include but not be limited to:

Delivery 

· Deliver the Ygam portfolio of workshops (online and face to face)

· Provide high-quality training to a range of professionals and young people in line with Ygam’s quality standards and facilitator guidance

· Be responsive to delegates needs, providing excellent customer service and answering questions and queries in a supportive manner

· Provide regular feedback on training materials, recommending adjustments if needed for Northern Ireland

· Escalate safeguarding, wellbeing or reputational concerns promptly in accordance with Ygam policies and procedures

· Act as an ambassador for Ygam, ensuring all interactions with delegates and stakeholders reflect organisational values and professional standards

· Highlight further training and / or partnership opportunities for Engagement Managers through workshops and delegate contact.

Planning 

· Work with Engagement Managers to schedule delivery

· Ensure all resources and materials are up to date and be prepared for delivery

· Develop materials for information sessions and present to external stakeholders

· Ensure joining instructions are sent to all delegates

· Develop stakeholder relationships, providing ongoing support for those trained.

· Attend key events as arranged with Programme Lead to represent Ygam

· Maintain awareness of local priorities, policy developments and stakeholder networks within Northern Ireland to support effective delivery and relationship building

· Support Engagement Managers with networking and presentations for external stakeholders

· Work closely with Ygam colleagues to promote and collaborate across the programme portfolio

Outcomes:

· Ensure accuracy of data utilising the CRM system

· Encourage completion of post training surveys

· Remain up to date with the latest evidence-based research on gaming and gambling harms

Learning and Development:

· Work closely with The Programme Lead: Engagement, to develop objectives and review performance.

· Ensure all relevant CPD is completed and up to date on platforms such as IHasco

· Attend support sessions with line manager (both remotely and in person). 

· Record performance in your monthly 1-1’s with your line manager

· Engage in peer observation and feedback to encourage reflection on your practice and learning from colleagues.

Administration:

· Send out joining instructions via our CRM system to delegates prior to workshops 

· Record attendance and email delegates post workshop to gather feedback 

· Ensure all records are maintained in accordance with GDPR/data protection legislation

· Work in collaboration with your line manager to adapt and improve programme processes, administrative and training content.

· Manage workload, communications and administrative tasks in a timely manner to support effective delivery as an Associate Trainer

Person Specification 

Essential:

· Experience delivering training online and face to face training to both adults, children and young people

· Proficiency with online delivery and experience using MS Teams and Zoom to facilitate online learning

· Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and maintain high standards of organisation

· Understanding of safeguarding principles and their application within education, youth, health or community settings

· Ability to explain complex topics such as gaming risks, online behaviours and digital harms in a clear and accessible way.

· Public speaking experience

· Prior experience of working in education, public health or youth services, with a detailed understanding of children and young people’s services

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills

· Strong IT skills (MS Word, Excel & PowerPoint especially)

· Experience of driving projects to achieve agreed outcomes

· Ability to work in a highly organised manner with a keen eye for absolute detail.

· Ability to work as a self-employed associate and manage own schedule

· Employment rights to live and work in the UK

· Experience of working collectively as a team to meet targets.

· Willingness to travel where necessary for the role.

· Ability to capture outcomes and impact data, (quantitative and qualitative) to help inform practise.

Desirable:

· Knowledge of the Northern Ireland education and health system

· Strong interest / understanding of public health and prevention-based approach to harm reduction

· Knowledge of safeguarding arrangements and children's services within Northern Ireland

· Experience delivering training informed by a public health or prevention-based approach

· Strong networking and relationships building skills

· Experience utilising CRM systems, particularly Salesforce

The successful applicant will be subject to reference checks, an Enhanced Access NI check, and must have Employment rights to live and work in the UK.

About the Role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Organisational Development Advisor to support the delivery of strategic people and culture initiatives within a leading Higher Education institution. Working closely with academic and professional services leaders, you will help drive organisational effectiveness, leadership development, employee engagement, and workforce capability projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with schools, faculties, and professional services teams to deliver OD initiatives and people-focused projects.
• Support leadership development, staff engagement, culture change, and wellbeing programmes.
• Design and facilitate workshops, briefings, and learning interventions.
• Provide advice and support to managers on organisational development and workforce planning activities.
• Monitor and evaluate OD programmes, using data and feedback to measure impact and inform improvements.

About You

• CIPD qualified (or equivalent) with experience in Organisational Development, Learning & Development, or HR.
• Experience delivering people, culture, leadership, or organisational change initiatives within a complex organisation.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and build relationships across diverse teams.
• Higher Education or public sector experience is highly desirable.

Why Apply?

This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a people strategy that supports organisational excellence, staff development, and a positive workplace culture within a dynamic Higher Education environment.

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A London charity is seeking an experienced Head of Finance to join its leadership team on an initial six-month fixed-term contract.

Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Head of Finance will take overall responsibility for the strategic and operational leadership of the finance function. This is a broad role combining people leadership, financial management, Board-level reporting and hands-on oversight of day-to-day finance operations.

The successful candidate will lead and develop the Finance team while working closely with senior leadership, the Board and relevant committees to provide high-quality financial information, insight and advice.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead, manage and develop the Finance team, ensuring effective delivery across the function.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes.
• Oversee management accounts and provide insightful financial reporting and analysis.
• Work closely with senior leadership, the Board and committees, presenting financial information and providing advice and challenge.
• Lead statutory accounts and manage the external audit process.
• Maintain strong financial controls, compliance and governance.
• Oversee and improve finance systems, processes and reporting.
• Partner with budget holders and senior stakeholders across the organisation.

You will:

• Be a qualified accountant (CCAB or equivalent).
• Have significant senior-level finance experience within a complex organisation, ideally within the charity or public sector.
• Have a strong track record of leading and developing finance teams.
• Be confident working with executive leadership, Boards and committees, including preparing and presenting financial information.
• Have strong experience across budgeting, forecasting, management reporting, statutory accounts, audit and financial controls.
• Be comfortable operating through periods of change and transformation.
• Possess excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

What's on offer:

• 6-month fixed-term contract
• £70,000 – £80,000 per annum DOE
• Hybrid working, with two days per week working from home
• London office

The Queen Elizabeth Trust is a new, ambitious UK-wide independent charity established to deliver a lasting legacy to the extraordinary life of service of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth.  Inspired by Queen Elizabeth's belief that "everyone is our neighbour", the Trust works hand in hand with communities to restore and sustain the buildings, green spaces and shared places that bring people together across generations and from all walks of life. Through funding, strategic partnerships and targeted support, the Trust will help create safe, inclusive and vibrant places that thrive long into the future.

Backed by an initial £40 million UK Government endowment, the Trust will act as a catalyst for change, investing not only in physical regeneration but also in the people, skills and activities that enable communities to flourish. Working with partners who bring deep local knowledge and expertise, the Trust is committed to ensuring that opportunities reach communities across the UK, particularly those that have historically faced barriers to accessing major funding programmes.

Working closely with the CEO, the Head of Community Investment will design and lead the Trust’s funding strategy, building a strong pipeline of opportunities, shaping innovative funding packages, securing co-investment, and managing a portfolio of high impact community projects across the UK. Combining strategic leadership with hands on delivery, you will play a pivotal role in creating the Trust’s approach, processes and partnerships from the ground up.

We are seeking an experienced grant-maker, social investor or funding leader with a deep understanding of community organisations and the role they play in building social cohesion. You will bring a strong track record of assessing investments, developing partnerships, influencing diverse stakeholders and managing complex funding arrangements. Equally important is your approach: entrepreneurial, collaborative and impact-driven, with the ability to thrive in ambiguity, build trusted relationships and move effortlessly between strategy and execution in a dynamic start-up environment.

Please visit the Attenti website to read the appointment brief for more information and details on how to apply. For an informal and confidential discussion, after having read the appointment brief, please contact our advising consultants Anita Denton or David Fielding at Attenti.

Closing date for applications – 5th October 2026 

The Queen Elizabeth Trust is a new, ambitious UK-wide independent charity established to deliver a lasting legacy to the extraordinary life of service of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth.

Inspired by Queen Elizabeth's belief that "everyone is our neighbour", the Trust works hand in hand with communities to restore and sustain the buildings, green spaces and shared places that bring people together across generations and from all walks of life. Through funding, strategic partnerships and targeted support, the Trust will help create safe, inclusive and vibrant places that thrive long into the future.

Backed by an initial endowment from the UK Government, the Trust will act as a catalyst for change, investing not only in physical regeneration but also in the people, skills and activities that enable communities to flourish. Working with partners who bring deep local knowledge and expertise, the Trust is committed to ensuring that opportunities reach communities across the UK, particularly those that have historically faced barriers to accessing major funding programmes.

Reporting to the CEO, the Head of Finance will lead the development of the Trust's finance, treasury, investment and operational functions, overseeing a growing endowment currently valued at £40m. This is a unique opportunity to combine strategic leadership with hands-on delivery, building systems, influencing decision making and helping establish the foundations of a high-impact organisation from the ground up.

We are looking to recruit a qualified accountant with significant senior experience spanning financial leadership, treasury management, governance and organisational development. You will be equally comfortable advising boards, developing strategy and rolling up your sleeves to get things done. Commercially astute, highly collaborative and low ego, you will thrive in a fast-paced start-up environment, bring structure to ambiguity, and communicate complex financial matters with clarity and confidence.

Please visit the Attenti website to read the appointment brief for more information and details on how to apply. For an informal and confidential discussion, after having read the appointment brief, please contact our advising consultants, Anita Denton or David Fielding, at Attenti.

Closing date for applications – 28th September 2026