Lead policy officer jobs
Employer: Community Rail Network
Salary: £43k-£51.5k pa, full time
Location: Home based / flexible or Huddersfield
We are seeking a dynamic director of policy and communications, to lead and develop our increasingly impactful external affairs activity. You’ll be sharing community insights and evidence with policy and decision-makers at national and devolved level, supporting a shift towards more inclusive and sustainable transport and mobility, while overseeing high-quality, inspiring member communications and thought-leadership, drawing on grassroots experiences.
About us
Community Rail Network is a national not-for-profit organisation supporting a growing ‘community rail’ movement, which helps communities get the most from their railways, promotes sustainable and inclusive travel, coordinates volunteering and place-making, and brings people together.
Community rail is made up of 76 community-based partnership organisations, and c.1,300 station friends volunteer groups and other community-led initiatives around Britain. Their activities range from creative projects for young people, to advising train operators on service improvements, to building travel confidence among marginalised groups, to biodiversity projects at stations, to promoting greener tourism by rail.
Our enthusiastic team of 24 works from home in different locations, but we come together regularly in person and online. We work collaboratively to support our members, provide training, events and resources, run campaigns, and champion community rail and its insights. We believe in developing our team and helping everyone reach their potential while having a good work-life balance.
About this role
This role is crucial for us, our members and their communities, especially at the current time, with our need to seize on the opportunities of rail reform and devolution, promote wider use of sustainable transport, and bring communities together. You will spearhead our external affairs strategy and plans, building political relationships, influencing decision-making and raising awareness of community rail and its insights, while ensuring effective communications with our members and helping them to have a voice locally and regionally. You’ll be striving to put community rail at the forefront of a shift towards more inclusive and sustainable mobility.
As a member of our senior leadership team, reporting to and working closely with our chief executive, you will manage a passionate team of four, ensuring collaboration with our other teams, partners and funders, and drawing on members’ insights.
Main responsibilities
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Lead the review, development and delivery of our communications, policy and insights strategy, working to position the community rail movement effectively, use its insights to influence policy change, and ensure our members are well-informed and have a voice;
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Further strengthen our advisory and influencing work with national, devolved and regional government, transport bodies, parliamentarians and other decision-makers, especially around rail reform, transport devolution and integrated, inclusive, sustainable transport;
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Ensure we’re engaging effectively with policy developments and opportunities, taking forward a programme of relationship-building, and identifying and engaging in relevant consultations, events and speaking opportunities, enabling community rail’s insights and experiences to be shared;
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Collaborate with partners in rail, government and the third sector to feed in our expertise on community engagement with rail, amplify our campaigns, and build opportunities for joined-up communications and policy work;
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Continually develop and disseminate our evidence base and insights on the social, environmental and economic value community rail delivers, and opportunities to create greater benefits for communities from rail and transport;
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Oversee high-quality, coherent and inspiring communications with our members and partners, promoting our work, and sharing news, opportunities, and good practice across the movement;
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Manage production of high-quality resources, case studies and reports that our members can use to enhance their impact and which showcase community rail’s impact;
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Lead and develop our media relations and awareness-raising PR, championing community rail and its messages on sustainable, inclusive travel and communities at national and regional level, while supporting members on local PR;
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Develop our online presence and reach, making full use of our website, social media, our Scenic Rail Britain campaign, and partners’ channels to celebrate and position community rail and grow its reach and impact;
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Oversee a calendar of creative and impactful campaigns that involve and empower our members, creating PR and engagement opportunities, including Community Rail Week;
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Play a key role in collective leadership, strategic focus and organisational development as a member of our senior leadership team, including through internal communications and cross-team working, annual planning, funder liaison and reporting, upholding our strategies and policies, and pursuing opportunities for continuous improvement.
Skills and competencies
- Strong leadership and management skills, including experience managing, developing and drawing on a multi-faceted team delivering complex campaigns or projects, and budget management;
- Excellent communication and external leadership skills; articulate, assertive, and with the ability to work diplomatically and persuasively with stakeholders at all levels;
- An understanding of public affairs, ideally in relation to community development, sustainability and/or transport, and a demonstrable ability to identify influencing opportunities, deliver thought-leadership, and engage with policy-makers, including sharing community insights;
- Politically astute, with awareness of and commitment to social inclusion, social justice and sustainability, and a good grasp of the importance of public transport sustainable travel, and community-led action, to these agendas;
- Understanding of political processes and experience of engaging with policy and decision-making, ideally at national, devolved and local levels;
- Sound knowledge of communication and marketing methods and channels, and ability to oversee messaging and targeting of public and professional audiences, and to align content across multiple channels;
- A demonstrable ability to think analytically and draw on statistical and qualitative research to construct robust, evidence-based arguments;
- Experience of working with the media and achieving coverage at national, regional and local level;
- Experience working collaboratively with partners and ideally funders to deliver communications and policy activity and forming professional networks;
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines while dealing with competing priorities, and to support team members to do so;
- IT literate with a good working knowledge of Office, the internet and social media;
- Appropriate qualifications and professional development demonstrating knowledge and skills in line with the above, and a commitment to ongoing learning and development.
Other information
As you will be home-based, we are flexible about your location. However, you will be expected to travel to in-person full team meetings quarterly (usually in West Yorkshire), and you will need to bring your team together (currently all West Yorkshire based) with similar regularity in between. Attendance at in-person events and meetings is also important. We therefore welcome applications from those with decent public transport links, not too far from a railway station, to enable journeys to be made sustainably.
This is a full-time position, 37 hours per week. We use a flexi-time system with core hours 10am-3pm, and are committed to being a flexible, supportive and understanding employer. This is a permanent position with a probationary period of six months.
Community Rail Network is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and Black, Asian and other minoritised groups, who meet with the skills and competencies for this role. We will provide reasonable adjustments for interviews as required.
Championing the community rail movement | Connecting people and their railways | Creating inclusive, empowered, sustainable and healthy communities
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Overview
At Young Roots, we want to see a compassionate and welcoming society for young people seeking safety. We work alongside young refugees and asylum seekers in the UK, building trusted relationships, providing practical and emotional support and promoting young people's rights and power.
Our youth hubs and casework are transformative for young refugees, enabling young people who have fled danger, experienced traumatic journeys, and are often here alone to find community and connection, a space to be a young person, and access support to address a range of practical challenges they face. We also draw on our evidence from working every day with young refugees and asylum seekers to call for change to the laws and policies which are harming young people.
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced finance professional to play a vital role in ensuring Young Roots can continue delivering life-changing support to young people seeking safety.
As our Finance Lead*, you'll be a senior finance professional providing day-to-day financial leadership, ensuring financial operations run smoothly while translating complex financial data into accessible insights that empower our teams and leadership to make informed decisions. Supported by an experienced Head of Finance and Internal Operations, you'll lead on month-end processes and statutory accounts, cash flow forecasting and funder reporting, supporting strong financial controls and effective use of systems.
An excellent opportunity for a finance professional looking to take a leading role, this isn't just number-crunching – you'll be a trusted finance partner, working collaboratively across the organisation to support effective budget management, shape future initiatives, and ultimately help us maximise our impact for young refugees and asylum seekers.
The role requires proven experience in charity finance, including independently managing month-end processes and grant funding. You'll need an accounting qualification (AAT Level 4, full- or part-qualified ACCA/CIMA, or equivalent by experience) and hands-on experience with accounting systems such as Xero, Sage, or QuickBooks.
Most importantly, we're looking for someone who can work with the Head of Finance and Internal Operations to communicate financial information in ways that make sense to non-finance audiences and is motivated by supporting our mission.
We welcome applications from candidates with diverse career paths. If you've gained relevant skills through non-traditional routes or timeframes, we encourage you to apply.
This is a permanent role offering 21-35 hours per week (0.6-1.0 FTE); we're open to any hours within this range. The role is hybrid, with two days at one of our London offices. Salary is £40,973-£45,199 per annum pro rata.
*Other organisations may call this role Finance Manager, Finance Business Partner or Financial Controller.
How to apply
Please submit your CV and a personal statement by the closing date outlining how you would be a great fit for the role.
Your personal statement should be no more than 800 words, answering the following questions:
- What is your motivation for working with Young Roots?
- What is your motivation for applying for this role specifically?
- What skills and experience would you bring that will enable you to be successful in this role?
Please ensure you refer to the minimum requirements on the person specification and provide examples to demonstrate how and where you meet the criteria.
Please submit your application via CharityJobs.
Please note that Young Roots is closed from Wednesday, 24 December 2025, and will reopen on Monday, 5 January 2026. There may be a delay in getting back to you during this time.
No agencies, please.
Closing date: Midday on Monday, 12 January 2026.
Interviews: Week commencing Monday, 19 January 2026.
Young Roots recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equity and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who face disadvantage in employment, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities. As an organisation that supports refugees, asylum seekers and migrants, we particularly welcome applications from people within these communities. We offer a guaranteed interview to candidates with lived experience of the asylum system and those with disabilities, where they meet the essential elements of the person specification. If aspects of the application process create barriers to you applying, or if you'd like any adjustments to the process, or an informal discussion or advice on your application, please get in touch. We would also like to alert you to organisations that support people from under-represented groups and can advise you on applying for this role - for example, Scope, Young Women’s Trust, and Experts by Experience.
Young Roots is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. We take this duty very seriously.
Our work is underpinned by policies and procedures which promote safe working practices. We have a training and supervision framework that everyone is expected to comply with, along with systems for monitoring, quality assurance, and collecting service user feedback. Upon joining, you will be expected to be part of this approach to safeguard our service users.
All posts are subject to safer recruitment protocols, which include vetting checks such as enhanced criminal records and barring, scrutiny of employment history, references, and other checks.
To view the job description for the role, please see the link above.
How to apply
Please submit your CV alongside a personal statement by the closing date, within our application form (in the Quick apply link below), outlining how you would be a great fit for the role.
Your personal statement should be no more than 800 words, answering the following questions:
1. What is your motivation for working with Young Roots?
2. What is your motivation for applying for this role specifically?
3. What skills and experience would you bring that will enable you to be successful in this role?
Please ensure you refer to the minimum requirements on the person specification and provide examples to demonstrate how and where you meet the criteria.
Working alongside young people seeking safety - building trust, providing practical and emotional support, and promoting their rights and power.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Research is at the heart of our charitable objectives at Sarcoma UK. The charity provides funding for research to understand sarcoma better, improve treatments and ultimately, make a difference to the lives of people affected by sarcoma. Since 2009, we’ve funded more than 100 projects, representing an investment of more than £10 million.
The Research Officer role enjoys a varied workload and brings the opportunity to work with autonomy and develop new skills within a friendly and dynamic team. You will work on a broad range of projects, including being involved with our grant management processes, working closely with the Research Manager and Director of Research, Policy and Support. The post-holder will also work closely with other departments across the charity, including producing engaging research communications content for print, online and social media, and will also have the opportunity to interact with senior researchers, clinicians and people affected by sarcoma.
This is an ideal role for someone with a scientific background and an active interest in research management, and it offers the opportunity to make a real impact for people affected by sarcoma and their families.
At Sarcoma UK, we are committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities and experiences. We are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements and will make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Benefits
- Flexible working options including hybrid working
- Pension with 5% employer contribution
- 25 days holiday entitlement per annum plus bank holidays and the working days between Christmas and New Year
- Additional day off for your birthday
- Health and wellbeing:
- Health Cash Plan
- Therapy sessions
- Wellbeing Group
Our Values
- Pioneering we are leading the way to a better future for the sarcoma community.
- Together we are creating a community to make a difference for all those affected by sarcoma.
- Expert we use our expertise in understanding sarcoma to deliver better outcomes.
Duties and Key Responsibilites
Sarcoma UK’s research programme
- To support Sarcoma UK’s grant application processes under guidance from the Research Manager. This will include calls for proposals, identifying expert peer reviewers, administering a high-quality peer and lay review process, communication with applicants and potential applicants, administration of grant awards and supporting patient involvement.
- To provide support to the Grant Review Panel and Research Strategy Committee, including organising meetings and preparing minutes.
- To manage Sarcoma UK’s portfolio of active research grants, under guidance from the Research Manager. This will include use of grant management software for administration of newly awarded grants, monitoring progress of current grants, oversight of grant finances and reporting on final outputs.
- To support opportunities for patient involvement within the research programme, including managing a network of lay reviewers and facilitating new opportunities, with support from the Involvement and Volunteering Coordinator.
- To support new developments in Sarcoma UK’s research programme, including organising and attending events, collaborative funding calls and initiatives to support early career researchers.
Research Impact and Communications
- To monitor and gather outputs and long-term impact of research grants funded by Sarcoma UK and support in ensuring these are shared with internal and external audiences.
- To plan and produce engaging and reactive and proactive communications about sarcoma research, including website, social media, written and video content, working with the Research Manager and Communications Team to ensure our research activities and outcomes are shared with the sarcoma community and wider public.
- To proactively engage with grant holders to gather impactful insights and to support engaging communication about sarcoma research.
- To regularly review and update Sarcoma UK’s website with progress updates on research grants and promote funding opportunities.
- To support work undertaken by the Fundraising Team where required, such as lab tours and supplying information about funded grants for donor reports.
External relationships
- To be a point of contact for Sarcoma UK grant holders and their host institutions.
- To maintain positive relationships with Sarcoma UK’s research panels, potential grant applications, researchers and clinicians, and the wider sarcoma research community.
- To work directly with a range of people personally affected by sarcoma to place the voice of lived experience at the heart of our research programme.
General
- To support the integration of the research programme across Sarcoma UK.
- Attend Sarcoma UK events and contribute to the wider work of Sarcoma UK.
- Travel occasionally to meetings and events. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required (time off in lieu will be given).
- Work flexibly and collaboratively in a dynamic environment, undertaking other duties as required to support the wider operations of Sarcoma UK.
Sarcoma UK is a national charity that funds vital research and offers information and support to anyone affected by sarcoma.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Purpose of the Role
The HR Officer provides comprehensive HR support across the organisation, ensuring best practice and compliance with employment legislation. This role covers the full employee lifecycle, HR administration & HR system admin, policy implementation, and coordinating employee engagement initiatives, while contributing to long-term HR projects and organisational change.
Key Responsibilities
Employee Lifecycle Management
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Act as the first point of contact for employee queries and concerns.
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Coordinate recruitment processes, including building job packs, setting up roles on BrightHR, advertising vacancies, and supporting shortlisting.
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Schedule and coordinate interviews.
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Prepare employment contracts and issue HR letters (e.g., annual pay reviews, leave requests).
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Manage pre-employment checks and ensure new employees receive starter information.
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Plan and oversee induction for all new staff.
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Support probation reviews and oversee the bi-annual appraisal processes.
HR Administration
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Maintain accurate employee records in BrightHR and BrightSafe.
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Complete regular HR admin activities and manage queries from staff and managers.
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Track and report monthly staff absence data.
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Inform the payroll bureau of monthly changes affecting pay (salary/hour changes, joiner/leaver, bank account changes, maternity, sickness, etc.) and liaise with Finance to verify payroll.
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Ensure Data Protection procedures are followed for all HR records.
Policy & Compliance
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Support the implementation and periodic review of HR policies and procedures.
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Maintaining the policy register.
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Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with employment legislation.
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Provide advice and guidance to managers and staff on HR policies and legal obligations.
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Ensuring DBS checks are carried out for colleagues having access to children’s data and visiting schools
Employee Engagement & Wellbeing
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Help coordinate the wellbeing committee.
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Promote staff benefits, including eye care vouchers, pension schemes, and electric car salary sacrifice.
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Manage the staff training programme in BrightHR and BrightSafe, ensuring completion of mandatory training and promoting non-mandatory development opportunities.
Projects & Organisational Development
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Lead and support HR projects to improve processes and systems.
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Assist with organisational change initiatives and contribute to HR strategy development.
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Support long-term projects such as benefits review and pension provider transition.
Offboarding
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Handle the leaver process, ensuring smooth offboarding and accurate record updates.
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Ensuring the exit interview is carried out, share with the line managers and ELT
Supporting ELT (approximately 5 hours per week)
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Coordinating multi-calendar meetings
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Analysis and research to support initiatives
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Coordinating projects
Skills & Experience
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CIPD Level 5 (preferred)
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Strong knowledge of HR best practices and employment legislation.
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Excellent organisational and communication skills.
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Ability to manage multiple priorities and work collaboratively with managers and staff.
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Knowledge and skills in managing an HR system.
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Experience in HR administration and employee relations.
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Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About us:
Drinkaware is a leading charity concerned with reducing harm from alcohol. We do this by providing impartial, evidence-based information, advice, and practical resources; raising awareness of alcohol harms; and working in partnership with others to deliver change through our tools and interventions. The Trust is funded primarily through voluntary, unrestricted donations from alcohol producers, wholesalers, and on- and off-trade retailers, but acts entirely independently.
If you’re passionate about making a difference and thrive in a role where no two days are the same, we’d love to hear from you.
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About the role:
As our Operational Development Lead, you’ll play a pivotal role in designing and delivering high-quality, evidence-based interventions and services that reduce alcohol-related harm. Working closely with colleagues across the organisation, you’ll ensure our programmes are inclusive, impactful, and grounded in behavioural science.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading the design and delivery of harm reduction interventions and prevention.
- Driving operational planning and ensuring interventions align with public health objectives.
- Embedding quality assurance, safeguarding, and compliance across all programmes.
- Collaborating with teams including Digital, Marketing, Research, and Partnerships to deliver effective services.
- Representing Drinkaware externally with stakeholders, funders, and public health bodies.
This role also includes line management of two team members and offers the opportunity to influence strategic direction while maintaining hands-on delivery.
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About you:
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. You’ll bring:
- Strong operational leadership experience in the charity, public health, or related sectors.
- Expertise in alcohol harm reduction and prevention approaches.
- Experience designing and implementing evidence-based interventions.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to translate complex information into clear, accessible content.
- A collaborative mindset and confidence working across multiple teams.
Qualifications in psychology, public health, or behavioural science are desirable but not essential. We are keen to see applicants with certificates in Motivational Interviewing, CBT or other relevant therapeutic approaches relating to alcohol harm reduction or prevention. If you meet most of the criteria and are excited about the role, we encourage you to apply.
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Why join us?
At Drinkaware, we value our people and offer a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. You’ll enjoy:
- Hybrid Working (two days a week in the office)
- 30 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)
- Bupa health cover
- Matched company pension scheme
- Life assurance cover
- Wellbeing and learning grants
- Perks and discounts platform
…and more.
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Ready to make an impact?
Apply today and help us work together to reduce alcohol harm across the UK.
For full information please refer to the attached job description, our applicant privacy policy and read more about Drinkaware on our website.
All candidates must be eligible to work in the UK and provide proof of your right to work in the UK.
Closing date: 9am Monday 12 January 2026
Expected Interview date: 30 January & 2 February
We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all communities. If you need adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
No agency support is required
Apply for this post by clicking on the 'Apply' link. You should submit an up-to-date CV and a brief covering letter (maximum two pages) that outlines how you meet the requirements outlined in the 'About You' section in the Job Description and what you would bring to Drinkaware.
Interviews will take place over two stages, with the first round held in person at our Moorgate offices.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join the RCR Learning Team as our Operations Officer and play a pivotal role in driving operational excellence and innovation. This is a central position supporting the team’s strategic objectives, governance, and day-to-day activities. You’ll lead operational improvement projects, manage key business processes, and deliver outstanding customer service to both internal and external stakeholders.
What You’ll Do
As Operations Officer, you’ll be at the heart of our operations, ensuring the team runs smoothly and efficiently. Key responsibilities include:
- Operational Leadership: Streamline daily activities, embed standard operating procedures, and drive efficiency improvements.
- Governance Support: Oversee governance structures, lead secretariat duties for committees, and ensure compliance with RCR policies.
- Project Management: Scope, initiate, and deliver projects aligned with strategic objectives, managing risks and timelines effectively.
- Data & Reporting: Manage CRM systems, produce evaluation reports, and ensure compliance with data protection legislation.
- Recruitment & Onboarding: Support recruitment of staff and voluntary contributors, ensuring a welcoming and consistent experience.
- Collaboration: Work closely with colleagues, subject matter experts, and external partners to deliver high-quality learning experiences.
About You
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has strong project management skills and thrives in a dynamic environment.
- Brings a proactive, solution-focused approach to operational challenges.
- Is passionate about continuous improvement and innovation.
- Communicates effectively with senior stakeholders and external partners.
- Has experience managing systems, processes, and governance activities.
Why join us
- Make a difference to the lives of Doctors and the specialities they work in every day!
- Hybrid working (60% working week can be done remotely)
- Modern working environment
- Equipment provided to work from home
- Generous annual leave allowance
- Excellent pension scheme
- Interest free season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
AMR Action UK is the United Kingdom patient organisation for people impacted by antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Our legitimacy comes through our small-scale research projects, our engagement with patients and their families, and from our direct support of patients through our information service and peer-support activities.
AMR Action UK seeks to empower patient, families, and carers to have their voices heard on matters that affect their lives and to be able to influence research priorities, policy and implementation changes at government level, and changes in NHS practices across the four nations of the UK.
The Policy and Advocacy lead will ensure that AMR Action UK is both well-informed across the broad-spectrum of topics relating to AMR and is impactful in its influencing work.
To be successful in the role you will need energy and enthusiasm to hit the ground running in order to make an immediate impact on appointment.
Closing date 12th January 2026, with a view to holding interviews week beginning 19th January 2026.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join Belong’s Senior Leadership Team as Director of Policy & Research, a role that sits at the heart of our mission to shape national conversations on cohesion and integration. You will lead Belong’s policy development, research strategy, and national partnerships, ensuring our work is grounded in robust evidence and lived experience. This position offers the chance to influence systemic change, amplify Belong’s voice with policymakers and opinion formers, and ensure our insights drive real-world impact.
As Director of Policy & Research, you will:
- Lead the development of Belong’s policy and research agenda, aligning it with organisational strategy and national priorities.
- Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, briefings, consultation responses, and thought leadership pieces.
- Oversee the design and delivery of research projects, including commissioning and partnership work, ensuring rigor and inclusivity.
- Translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations and advocacy strategies.
- Foster strong collaboration between the Policy & Research team and Programme Delivery team, ensuring insights inform both policy and practice.
- Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, parliamentarians, journalists, and opinion formers.
- Represent Belong externally at high-level meetings, events, and in the media, amplifying our impact and reach.
- Develop strategic messaging and narratives that position Belong as a thought leader in social cohesion.
- Support campaigns and public engagement initiatives that promote Belong’s policy goals.
- Contribute to organisational development, strategic planning, and income generation through proposal development and funder engagement.
- Line manage policy and research staff, providing leadership, support, and professional development.
This is a senior leadership role for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and wants to drive systemic change at scale.
About You
We are seeking a strategic and insightful leader with:
- Proven experience in policy development and research leadership.
- Experience working in or with government, think tanks, or advocacy organisations.
- Strong understanding of social policy and influencing processes.
- Knowledge of cohesion, integration, and community relations.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including media engagement and public speaking.
- Ability to translate complex research into accessible policy messages.
- Familiarity with participatory and applied research methods.
- Strong strategic thinking and planning abilities.
- Relevant qualification in public policy, social research, or a related field.
- Experience managing teams and budgets, and supporting income generation through fundraising and proposal development.
Personal Qualities
- Passionate about improving cohesion and integration in the UK.
- Strategic and visionary thinker.
- Collaborative and inclusive leader.
- Politically astute and intellectually curious.
- Practical, focused, and reliable.
- Committed to personal and professional development.
Why Join Us?
At Belong, you’ll be part of a dynamic, values-driven team united by a shared commitment to creating a more inclusive and connected society. We offer:
- 30 days’ annual leave
- Hybrid working (typically 3 days in the office)
- Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies
- 3% pension contribution
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
Join us and help shape national policy and research that builds stronger, kinder, and more connected communities across the UK.
Salary: £65,000–£70,000
Location: UK-wide (regular travel across England and Wales)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
About Belong
Belong – The Cohesion and Integration Network is the UK’s leading not-for-profit organisation dedicated to building a more united and less divided society. Established in 2019, we work across sectors to strengthen trust, belonging, and resilience in communities. Through research, policy influence, and place-based programmes, we connect people, places, and organisations to share learning and drive systemic change. Our growing membership spans local authorities, charities, civil society, and businesses. Belong is collaborative, evidence-led, and committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Our office is based in Manchester and we offer hybrid working for those able to travel there. However, this role is open UK-wide and can be worked remotely, with regular travel across England and Wales required.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is an exciting opportunity to steer Asylum Aid at an important time in its 30-year existence. As Executive Director you will be responsible for delivering on our strategy for impact. You will oversee our work to increase access to expert, trauma-informed legal representation to those in the asylum, trafficking and statelessness systems and lead our policy and strategic legal work to achieve systemic change that contributes towards our vision.
You will line manage the Director of Legal Casework to oversee the provision of supportive and enabling leadership to Asylum Aid caseworkers so that they can continue to deliver high quality expert advice in complex cases, while being supported in their professional development and wellbeing. You will also manage and develop the work of our welfare advice team within the Westminster Advice Services Partnership and beyond, and work collaboratively with colleagues in the sector to build capacity and increase our impact.
The ideal candidate, who may be legally qualified, will have experience of leadership in the charity/NGO sector and a sound understanding of the asylum, human rights and trafficking processes in the UK and the legal frameworks which govern the protection of refugees, survivors of trafficking and stateless people, and of the role of law in achieving system change.
We are looking for someone who is strategically minded and passionate about providing supportive and inclusive leadership to our expert team. You will be committed to our objectives and to the role which expert legal representation plays in enabling people in need of protection in the UK to obtain it.
As is the nature of this sector, the role may be exposed to a high volume of traumatic and distressing material and, whilst they will be supported by the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and surrounding team, the candidate should also be able to demonstrate knowledge of good self-care principles in an intense work environment and dissemination of those principles to junior members of the team.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership and strategy
·Be responsible, with the support of the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO, for the development, implementation and monitoring of Asylum Aid’s organisational strategy
·Provide leadership and strategic direction at Asylum Aid in accordance with its aims and objectives, with the support of the Director of Legal Casework
·Act as external spokesperson for Asylum Aid, maintaining and strengthening Asylum Aid’s position as a leader in the refugee rights, statelessness and legal aid sectors;
·Work collaboratively with others in the sector to promote and strengthen Asylum Aid’s work, identify and establish potential partnerships, with the support of the Director of Legal Casework;
·Work collaboratively with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and Executive Leadership team to drive the implementation of the Group strategic framework;
·Ensure that all reporting and monitoring requirements are met to support fundraising, contract compliance and monitoring strategic impact;
·Support the cross collaboration of the Asylum Aid team with the Helen Bamber Foundation team and play an active part in the management of the Helen Bamber Foundation Group.
Governance
·Act as the Data Protection Supervisor with responsibility for data protection and cyber security within Asylum Aid
·Together with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group CEO and designated safeguarding leads, be responsible for child and adult safeguarding within Asylum Aid
·In collaboration with the Director of Legal Casework, ensure compliance by Asylum Aid with all legal and regulatory obligations, including the Legal Aid Agency contract, the Immigration Advice Authority and Solicitors Regulation Authority;
·Lead on the preparation and presentation of quarterly reports on Asylum Aid’s activities, strategy and risks to the Asylum Aid Board, the Finance and Fundraising Committee and the People and Governance Committee;
·Lead on the preparation of the Trustees’ annual report and ensure that monitoring and evaluation systems are adequate to enable reporting on Asylum Aid’s activities and impact.
Management and Supervision
·Responsible for line management of the Director of Legal Casework and Welfare Advice service coordinator, and other team supervisors as required;
·Together with the Group Director of People, responsible for Human Resources and implementation of the People Strategy within Asylum Aid, including development and implementation of HR policies and procedures;
·Together with the Director of Legal Casework and team supervisors, drive the effective management and supervision of the Asylum Aid team and ensure that they comply with relevant professional standards and accreditation;
·Foster a supportive and inclusive team culture at Asylum Aid in which each member feels valued and supported to develop professionally and to perform to the best of their ability;
·Ensure the team’s well-being and that self-care practices are established and work in tandem with the Director of Legal Casework and supervisors to ensure trauma-informed ways of working.
Policy & Strategic Legal Work
·Together with the Group Director of Policy, identify policy priorities and coordinate the preparation of evidence and briefings drawing on Asylum Aid’s experience and expertise to influence system change;
·Build and maintain relationships and partnerships with sector colleagues to support joint strategic engagement including policy advocacy and strategic legal work;
·Work closely with the Director of Legal Casework and team supervisors to drive changes in the UK asylum, trafficking and statelessness systems through strategic legal work.
Finance & Fundraising
·Work closely with the CEO and the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Finance Team to set and manage budget(s) and general financial matters for Asylum Aid
·Together with the Director of Legal Casework and the Group Finance Team, establish systems for monitoring legal aid Work In Progress and billing, and securing casework income including legal aid, and inter partes income from judicial review cases;
·Work closely with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Fundraising and Communications Team to secure funding for Asylum Aid from a range of sources including trusts and foundations, corporate philanthropy and major donors;
·Ensure that Legal Aid and other income is maximised, and targets are achieved.
Other duties
·Manage the recruitment and supervision of volunteers where necessary in collaboration with the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Volunteers Coordinator;
·Support the Helen Bamber Foundation Group Facilities team to ensure the smooth running of the office and that the facilities meet the needs of Asylum Aid;
·Work outside normal office hours as required and travel in order to carry out the responsibilities of the post.
·To undertake any task that may be requested from time to time that may be consistent with the nature and scope of this post.
Essential Experience, Skills and Knowledge
•Experience of running a small to medium sized charity/legal NGO and/or legal department within the NGO sector (or other equivalent senior management role);
•Demonstrable experience of managing and leading a successful team and the ability to manage a growing team with mixed roles from team supervisors to administrative support staff, working co-operatively with colleagues to maintain transparency and effective working relationships within the team;
•Strong communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with people from a wide range of backgrounds
•Strong understanding of good governance including legal, regulatory and financial responsibilities;
•Ability to work with a range of stakeholders from trustees to external partners;
•Experience of leading and/or participating in organisational strategic planning;
·Experience of legal policy work within the human rights field and /or of strategic litigation, whether as an NGO claimant or legal representative;
•Experience of managing diverse funding sources and setting and implementing budgets;
•Experience of working in a service delivery partnership with other organisations;
•Experience of fundraising, especially grants from trusts and foundations;
•Sound working knowledge of the law and policy as it relates to immigration, asylum, human rights and modern slavery/trafficking;
•Demonstrable understanding of the asylum and human rights sector in the UK;
•An understanding of the barriers migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers face regarding access to legal advice, reasons why they may become destitute and why this makes it more difficult to access advice and support; and
•The passion for working empathetically and supportively with migrants, refugees, stateless people and asylum seekers.
Desirable Experience
·Experience of managing the delivery of frontline casework with people in the asylum or trafficking systems
·Experience of tendering for and delivering publicly funded contracts e.g. LAA or local authority funding;
·Working knowledge of Legal Aid Agency contracts, including the delivery of casework and billing under a legal aid contract in the immigration and asylum category and/or the public law category;
How to apply
The first stage is to complete on our online application form on our website by 10am on Monday 26th January 2026.
The website form will ask you to:
1.Upload a short covering letter. Please tell us why the position appeals to you, and how your relevant skills and experience, including any voluntary experience and lived experience, matches the listed responsibilities and person specification. Please also state in your covering letter when you would be available to start the role.
2.Upload your current CV
3.Complete an online Equal Opportunities monitoring form – completion of this form will help us ensure that our recruitment procedures operate in such a way as to provide genuine equality of opportunity. The questions are entirely optional, and this information will not be available to members of the selection panel.
For an informal conversation about the post before applying, please contact Alison Pickup, the current Executive Director.
Selection Process
We will invite candidates to an initial online interview on Tuesday 10th or Wednesday 11th February, followed by shortlisted candidates attending in-person interviews at our office in Old Street on Tuesday 24th or Wednesday 25th February.
We offer a guaranteed initial interview for refugees, stateless people and others with lived experience of forced migration, provided that they provide some evidence of relevant experience or skills in relation to the essential criteria.
We regret that we can only respond to applicants who make it to the interview stage.
Eligibility
Please note that the successful candidate must have the right to work in the UK (as a small charity we do not have the capacity to sponsor work visas).
Successful candidates will also be subject to a basic DBS check. If appointed, you will also be required to give your consent to the charity to receive regular updates on your criminal records status throughout your employment and to disclose any relevant convictions incurred during your time with us.
Adjustments
We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. If you require a different format of the application form, such as large print or Word format, or if you would like to discuss any specific requirements, please get in touch with us.
EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
Our commitment to principles of equity, diversity and inclusion is an integral part of our approach to our clients, our volunteers and our staff, and we are an equal opportunities and Living Wage employer.
We are committed to attracting and recruiting diverse candidates because we are keen to make sure that our staff, trustees, volunteers and ambassadors reflect the communities we serve and the wider community we work in.
We genuinely welcome and encourage applications from candidates from a range of backgrounds, especially people of colour, people with disabilities, people from low socio-economic backgrounds, refugees, stateless people and others with lived experience of forced migration or trauma and of the housing and welfare system, who are under-represented in our organisation.
We recognise and value the role of lived experience in meeting the needs of our clients and acknowledge the under-representation of people with lived experience of forced migration and statelessness in the advice sector. We value experience gained overseas as well as in the UK.
We are also proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector.
If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network and access other information and resources which may help in preparing your job application.
Please complete the form on their website to request support and they will confirm if they can match you with a mentor to support your application.
- Provide inspirational leadership and clear strategic direction for the Freshly Greated CPP programme.
- Lead the implementation of the programme with creativity and a strong commitment to its aims and objectives.
- Develop and nurture the key partnerships in Great Yarmouth and beyond that support the programme’s sustainability and growth.
The Executive Director leads the Freshly Greated programme, working closely with the Freshly Greated Consortium, Arts Council England (ACE), freelancers, volunteer Community Producers and the wider local community. The Director manages a small, multi-disciplinary team and is responsible for the programme’s creative direction, partnership development, financial sustainability, evaluation, compliance and will also develop and lead an ambitious, co-created community-led arts and culture programme that has action research and evaluation at its core.
Freshly Greated is a year round programme which includes award winning youth participation and intergenerational projects across three neighbourhoods. In partnership with Out There Arts, Freshly Greated create vibrant public celebrations across parks, beaches, and town spaces, inspired by local stories. Last year, 61,942 residents took part in workshops, events, and festivals that are free, inclusive, and locally led. All Community Producers agree Freshly Greated proves everyone is creative, builds skills, and strengthens community spirit - 94% say it increases local pride, and 91% believe it makes Great Yarmouth a better place to live.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
About the Project
The National Lottery funded Meddwl Ymlaen Mind Our Future project is led by The Venture on behalf of the North East Wales partnership. The aim is to empower young people aged 11 to 24 to shape mental health services across Wrexham and Flintshire. Young people will co develop and influence policy, processes and services that affect their mental wellbeing.
Overview of the Role
The Senior Youth Engagement Officer will lead the youth engagement and co production elements of the project. A key part of the role is to lead and facilitate the Young Leaders Advisory Board (YLAB), made up of 11 to 24 year olds who guide the direction of the project. The post holder will support their leadership development, confidence and decision making.
The role also includes developing a strategy to recruit and engage more young people, delivering a calendar of youth led events, and ensuring young voices shape all aspects of the project. The officer will represent Mind Our Future in meetings with stakeholders and support young people recruited into paid roles within the project.
Main Duties
• Lead and facilitate the YLAB, plan and chair meetings, and support members to take an active leadership role.
• Recruit and engage a diverse group of young people to join the YLAB and ensure the group reflects the communities of Wrexham and Flintshire.
• Provide mentoring, coaching and personal development opportunities for young people involved.
• Co design project activities with young people, ensuring their voices guide decisions, planning and evaluation.
• Organise workshops, events and activities and ensure all logistics are managed effectively.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders and communicate project updates.
• Recruit and support young people in paid roles within the project, including training, mentoring and ongoing support.
• Act as the designated safeguarding lead for the project including implementing safeguarding procedures, providing guidance, and liaising with authorities when required.
• Contribute to overall project success through planning, evaluation and collaborative teamwork.
• Maintain high standards of professionalism, confidentiality and equality across all work.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Youth Work
• Clean UK driving licence
• Level 3 safeguarding children in Wales qualification
• Significant experience in a Safeguarding Lead or equivalent role
Desirable
• Diploma or degree in mental health, particularly relating to children and young people
• Health and Safety training
Skills and Abilities
Essential
• Strong communication skills in English
• Experience working with young people and young adults
• Empathy and ability to connect with young people
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent planning and organisational skills
• Good IT skills including digital communication and online working
• Ability to produce quality reports and presentations
• Ability to engage effectively with stakeholders and motivate young people
• Ability to work collaboratively and create a positive environment
• Ability to travel throughout Wrexham, Flintshire and occasionally across Wales
• Ability to meet deadlines and targets
Desirable
• Welsh language skills
• Ability to adapt communication styles for different needs (for example Makaton)
Experience and Knowledge
Essential
• Significant safeguarding experience
• Knowledge of youth work and youth development
• Understanding of monitoring and evaluation in a youth work setting
• Awareness of youth sub cultures and social media
• Experience of youth participation or consultation
• Understanding of professional boundaries
• Experience implementing Health and Safety and Equalities processes
• Knowledge of Youth Work in Wales: Principles and Purposes and related frameworks
• Knowledge of Data Protection and GDPR
• Understanding of the importance of Welsh language and culture
Desirable
• Experience of co production
• Experience working with diverse groups of young people
• Experience working with varied abilities
• Partnership working experience
• Project management experience or transferable skills
Personal Qualities
Essential
• Trustworthiness
• Commitment to professional development
• Commitment to equality and challenging discrimination
• Integrity, discretion and strong personal drive
• Ability to problem solve and work under pressure
• Compassion and patience
• Strong interpersonal and listening skills
• Genuine care for supporting others
• Fun, engaging and adventurous attitude
Other Requirements
• Ability to carry equipment between locations
• Frequent evening and weekend work will be required
• Enhanced DBS check required
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Role overview:
F&BF will be delivering celebration events in 2026-2027 that are bigger and more ambitious than ever. We are looking for an Events Manager to be the engine driver for visioning, planning, and delivering these on time, within budget, and to an extremely high standard. This role demands someone who can deliver events that cater to and attract participation from London’s diverse faith communities and would suit someone committed to F&BF’s values of connection over division and meaningful inclusion and celebration of those from different backgrounds. Our upcoming events programme will involve both celebration and fundraising events – the former, reaching and celebrating London communities; and the latter, engaging high net-worth donors and securing long-term, high-level support for the organisation. Because of this, experience in engaging and securing major donors is essential. This role requires line management of existing members of the F&BF staff and volunteers and working well with existing, and securing new, partners.
Job Description
All activities will be undertaken in collaboration with the Communities Team and with delivery and sponsorship partners
Delivery of Events
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To lead on the successful delivery of three major events in the F&BF calendar
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Interfaith Wellbeing Festival (June 2026, London)
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10th Anniversary of the Dangoor Awards (Oct 2026, London)
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F&BF’s 30th Anniversary gala event (Early 2027, London)
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Manage event budgets, ensuring events are delivered efficiently and within financial limits
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Ensure compliance with health and safety, insurance, and legal regulations throughout the event cycle
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Review current processes and approaches to event management and update these as necessary
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Review and update event timelines and work schedules to ensure they are achievable within the timeframes
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To perform administrative and logistical tasks using agreed process and conventions including planning, activity/event delivery,
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To observe delivery to ensure quality control (where appropriate)
Impact and Evaluation
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Review, develop, and update processes for monitoring and evaluating the impact and reach of events
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Establish key indicators for success and metrics for measurement for each event
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Report on event delivery and share insights which can inform decision making and spending going forwards
Line Management
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Work closely and supportively to develop those you manage in line with F&BF approaches and policies
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Manage schedules and workloads flexibly to ensure those you manage are able to perform well and thrive in their roles
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Implement performance management processes where needed
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Develop your management skills and grow your abilities to manage and support those around you
Communication and Stakeholder Relations
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Collaborate with colleagues to devise the vision for each event and convey this effectively to sponsors and partners
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Build and nurture relationships with suppliers, sponsors, volunteers, and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth event delivery
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Work with partners to develop and implement multi-channel marketing campaigns to promote events and ensure high attendance at public events
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Support the Communities Team in connecting with local faith groups and leaders to build long-term networks
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Clearly and inclusively communicate the Faith & Belief Forum’s vision and values to all stakeholders.
Major Donor Engagement
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Work with the CEO and other colleagues to develop a major donor engagement plan
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Support the CEO to understand the needs of major donors and help develop proposals, pitches and meeting preparation
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Help develop new leads and identify opportunities as they arise
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Propose new ways of engaging major donors and high net worths in line with their needs and priorities
General
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Support the organisation’s aims and contribute to a positive, inclusive working environment, including upholding our values of inclusion, fairness and a commitment to diversity and justice in all tasks
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Suggest ideas for improving work and strengthening relationships with faith groups and community partners
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Participate in team planning, learning, and reflection activities to develop your skills and improve project delivery
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Undertaking other initiatives necessary to ensure the successful implementation of the work of the organisation.
Organisational strategic goals:
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To equip more learners with the skills and tools they need to handle and influence relations between different faiths and beliefs.
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To generate stronger community-based movement, with youth at the forefront
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To project the voices of those we support and the impact of our partnership with them
Person Specification:
This role would suit someone who is excited about planning and delivering key events; someone who thrives in getting things done under tight deadlines and whilst overseeing many complex moving parts. It requires someone who is good at managing people, and who is enthusiastic and able to motivate and support a team to work together. Ideally, we are looking for someone who can inspire people with a well-devised and well-communicated vision for each event. We require the successful post holder to have experience in engaging major donors and to know what it takes to plan and deliver a successful high-level fundraising event. We realise interfaith work is quite niche so other forms of event management experience would be very welcome -so long as you are committed to our vision, can prioritise our values of inclusion and representation in the event delivery, and are open to learning how we do things, please do apply even if your experience is outside of the faith, interfaith or charity sector.
Essential experience and competencies:
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5 years + experience in delivering large-scale, high quality and impactful events
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Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders
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Experience in managing and management good practice
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with confidence in engaging supporters and suppliers
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Financially literate with experience monitor, manage and report on large budgets
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Creative, proactive, and solutions-focused with a collaborative approach to team working
Essential traits and characteristics:
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Ability to work sensitively and constructively with people from different backgrounds
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Committed to delivering events in line with F&BFs values
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Professional, flexible and comfortable dealing with stakeholders at all levels
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Proactive, enthusiastic, good at motivating and managing others and bringing people on board to your vision
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Strong attention to detail, ensuring nothing gets missed
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Ability to thrive under pressure and work to tight deadlines
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Committed to F&BF’s vision and mission and excited by bringing people of different backgrounds together
Other
-
Willingness to travel across London, including working outside core hours and weekends (TOIL is available)
Benefits include
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Flexibility around working hours and schedule
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Opportunity to work mainly remotely from home (occasional travel to London will be required)
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25 days annual leave (pro rata)
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2 days paid volunteer leave (pro rata)
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Interfaith and intercultural learning opportunities
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Regular support and coaching to help develop your skills
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Access to internal learning sessions on topics relevant to our sector
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
FLEX is looking for a passionate advocate with a good understanding of the UK political system, of labour abuse and/ or exploitation and human trafficking in the UK, demonstrable experience of coalition working and building relationships with key stakeholders working in the anti-trafficking, employment rights, and/or immigration sectors and Project Management. This recruitment comes at an exciting and challenging time for our work at the intersection of employment rights and immigration policy and you will lead on the implementation of our Secure Reporting pilot funded by the GLA. This role will inform and support our work to influence and improve law, policy and practice affecting workers in high-risk sectors in the UK.
In this role, you will work on FLEX’s advocacy, lead on a London level Secure Reporting pilot and contribute to the joint research advocacy and project work of FLEX networks and and coalitions. These currently include the Labour Exploitation Advisory Group (LEAG) and the Taskforce on Victims of Trafficking in Immigration Detention, two networks made of expert organisations directly supporting people who have experienced or are at risk of exploitation. Above all this role requires someone with real passion and commitment to FLEX’s work to end labour exploitation and an excitement for working in a small, dynamic team.
About FLEX: Focus on Labour Exploitation (FLEX) is a research and policy organisation working towards an end to labour exploitation. FLEX seeks to achieve this vision through the prevention of labour abuses, protection of the rights of those affected or at risk of exploitation and by promoting best practice responses to labour exploitation through research and evidence-based advocacy. FLEX is a small organisation that packs a big punch in terms of policy change and influencing.
Job title: Policy Officer
Location: FLEX office, Vauxhall, London - Flexible hybrid working with a mixture of in person and home/office working.
Salary: £33,500 per annum subject to deductions for tax and national insurance contributions as required by law, pro-rated if part time.
Working hours: Full time, 5 days
Pension: 4%, incremental pension contributions.
Contract: 2 years, renewable subject to funding
Reports to: Head of Policy
Benefits: 25 days holiday per year plus bank holidays (pro rata) with incremental leave (one extra day per year worked up to 5 days); extra paid days off over the end of year holiday period; enhanced maternity, adoption and paternity pay; occupational sick pay; Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling support; and opportunities for skills development.
Key responsibilities:
Policy and advocacy
- Supporting the implementation of FLEX policy strategy by developing and implementing advocacy plans;
- Developing targeted policy strategies for regional and/or local level work.
- Advocating for FLEX’s proposals and issues in relevant stakeholder meetings;
- Drafting position papers, reports and any other written materials as appropriate
- Ensuring effective dissemination of written material and research findings in conjunction with advocacy aims.
Project management
- Designing, planning, and delivering project activities against targets.
- Managing small project budgets
- Developing and implementing a monitoring and evaluation plan for projects under the management of this role
- Producing progress and learning reports for internal and external purposes.
Fundraising
- Scoping, drafting and supporting fundraising bids pertaining to network activities.
Other
- Commitment to EDI and FLEX values
- Drafting communications outputs for FLEX channels
- Attending internal team meetings
- Participating in training
- Representing FLEX at external meetings as required
- Adhering to FLEX policies
We are committed to being an inclusive employer, creating a culture where everyone can be themselves and thrive. This means we are committed to being an anti-racist, trans-inclusive, gender-equitable and intersectional organisation.
We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures. In particular, those who have lived experience of the immigration system or who identify as part of marginalised communities.
If you are disabled or become disabled, we encourage you to tell us about your condition so that we can make reasonable adjustments and consider what support may be provided at the interview and task stage.
How to apply: Please download, complete and send the FLEX application form and equal opportunities from our website.
Deadline for applications: 21st January 2026 23:59
Shortlisting: Your application will be assessed against the criteria in specified in the Job Description. To ensure fairness and consistency in our shortlisting process, applications will be anonymised before being reviewed by the panel.
Interviews will be held for shortlisted candidates in person at FLEX offices, Vauxhall week commencing 5th February 2026. Please state in your application if you are not available to attend on these dates.
We are working to end labour exploitation by challenging and transforming the systems and structures that make workers vulnerable to abuse.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda.Join the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations.
Job role: Head of Policy and Advocacy
Employer: Muslim Charities Forum
Salary:£42,000 – 45,000 per annum
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)
Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.
Location: London SE1.Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North
Closing date for applications:16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified.
About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF)
Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy.
We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society.
Role Purpose
The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda. The role involves shaping long-term strategy, building a robust evidence base, influencing government and policymakers, and representing MCF at senior levels across the charity, public and political sectors.
The postholder will engage proactively with central and local government, devolved authorities, and regional mayors, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Muslim-led organisations are represented in policy development and decision-making.
They will work collaboratively with MCF’s Communications, Partnerships, and Systemic Change and Sector Capacity teams to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach that delivers sustainable, long-term impact.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategy and Leadership
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Develop and deliver the next three-year Policy and Advocacy Strategy aligned with MCF’s organisational objectives.
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Provide strategic advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Board on policy opportunities and risks.
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Lead and develop the Policy and Advocacy team, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and collaborative culture.
2. Policy, Research and Insight
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Monitor and analyse UK policy and regulatory developments affecting Muslim-led civil society.
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Oversee research, consultations and data-driven insight to inform MCF’s policy positions.
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Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, consultation responses and position statements.
3. Influencing and Stakeholder Engagement
-
Lead MCF’s engagement with central government, local authorities, devolved administrations and regional mayors, as well as regulators and sector networks.
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Build and maintain strategic relationships with ministers, parliamentarians, senior officials, think tanks and sector leaders.
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Coordinate MCF’s public affairs activity, including roundtables, Select Committee and APPG engagement, and representation at high-level external forums.
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Strengthen MCF’s profile as a credible and influential voice for Muslim-led civil society across all tiers of government and the voluntary sector.
4. Sector Capacity and Member Support
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Engage MCF’s members and Muslim-led organisations in collective policy development and advocacy.
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Design and deliver tools, training and resources to build members’ influencing capacity.
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Identify and advocate for structural solutions to sector-wide challenges, including funding inequality, regulatory barriers and intersectional disadvantage.
5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting
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Develop and implement frameworks to assess the effectiveness and impact of MCF’s policy and advocacy work.
-
Provide regular progress reports to the CEO.
-
Ensure compliance with charity law, lobbying and regulatory requirements.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
-
Significant experience (5+ years) in senior policy, advocacy or influencing roles within the UK charity or voluntary sector.
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Demonstrable success influencing government at national, local or devolved levels, achieving measurable policy or funding change.
-
Strong understanding of the UK charity policy, funding and regulatory environment.
-
Knowledge of the UK Muslim-led and/or faith-based civil society landscape.
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Experience amplifying marginalised voices and embedding lived experience into policy and advocacy work.
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Proven ability to lead teams and deliver organisational strategy.
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Excellent analytical, written and verbal communication skills, with strong political acumen.
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Commitment to social justice, equity and strengthening Muslim-led civil society.
Desirable Criteria
-
Experience working with Muslim-led, faith-based or minority-led organisations.
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Understanding of intersectionality and its impact on underrepresented communities.
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Experience of research collaboration with academic institutions or think tanks.
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Proven track record in building partnerships for policy or advocacy initiatives.
Values and Behaviours
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Strategic and forward-thinking leadership.
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Collaborative and inclusive approach to diverse stakeholders.
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Resilience and adaptability in complex, fast-changing environments.
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Integrity and credibility in representing MCF and the wider sector.
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Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
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Excellent communication skills, particularly in amplifying underrepresented voices.
Additional Information
This is a senior leadership position. Occasional evening or parliamentary activities may be required, along with UK-wide travel.
What We Offer
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The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK’s most dynamic faith-based networks.
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A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
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Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation.
Application Information
To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post.
We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos.
We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified.
If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2).
No agencies.
UK residents only.Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We're the UK's specialist blood cancer charity and our vision is clear: we’re here to beat blood cancer. We fund world-class research; provide information and support to patients and their loved ones; and raise awareness of blood cancer.
In this role, you’ll lead major clinical research programmes, including a strategic clinical trial funding scheme, build strong partnerships across the research community, and oversee the UK Blood Cancer Research Network. You’ll help shape funding opportunities, ensure robust programme governance, and champion meaningful involvement of people affected by blood cancer to drive impactful, patient-centred research.
We’re looking for someone with experience delivering research funding programmes, strong knowledge of UK clinical research, and excellent communication and relationship-building skills. You’ll be confident managing multiple projects, using data and technology, and working with diverse stakeholders. A relevant science background and ability to improve systems and processes will help you thrive.
We are committed to actively promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity. In line with our strategy we welcome approaches from individuals from underrepresented groups, including minority communities, and applicants with a disability, to better reflect the community we serve and help broaden our perspectives.
Please note, we may close this ad early at our discretion.
We research, we support, we care. Because it’s time to beat leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and all types of blood cancer.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.



