Living well team leader jobs in Barnet, greater london

As a Social Entrepreneur Support Manager, you will be focused on delivering the best possible support to social entrepreneurs and their venture to help them maximise their social impact. This role will lead on finding, funding and supporting social entrepreneurs to offer them the best chance of success, from start up to scale. This role will be working with a diverse range of Social Entrepreneurs, both in terms of their lived experience, and the stage of their venture.

You will be responsible for working with a portfolio of social entrepreneurs at different stages of their journey, from ideation through to growth and scale. The portfolio of social entrepreneurs you will be supporting may vary dependent upon the team you sit within. You may be focused on early-stage or growth stage ventures as needed, offering more flexibility, variety, and skill development opportunities. You will be responsible for the delivery of a package of support that provides the social entrepreneur with awards (grants), Individual and business support, access to peer-to-peer support and to networks.   

In the respective teams you will also play an important role in deepening our capability and expertise when it comes to supporting social entrepreneurs during these different stages, building Pathways to Growth. You may also support the design, development and delivery of externally funded programmes or work with thematically/geographically linked social entrepreneurs as appropriate. Increasing UnLtd’s visibility and positive reputation in the development of local networks and connections to enable us to deliver on our strategic goals and driving peer to peer engagements locally and online, nationally.   

About Chapter One

Chapter One is a small but growing charity, working to ensure that every child has 1:1 reading support at the time they need it most. 

Our Early Literacy Intervention programme is based on a programme that works successfully in the USA and it provides daily, 1:1, 7 minute phonics sessions for children who are behind in phonics. Using a bespoke technology tool, a trained Early Reading Interventionist works individually with target children.

We also have our unique Online Reading Volunteer programme which currently supports about 3,500 children a year. It pairs struggling five to seven-year old (KS1) readers with reading support volunteers who come from over 150 local and national businesses. The volunteer pledge is very focused: readers commit 30 minutes a week to read with a child using a bespoke digital platform for an entire academic year. The results are transformative, boosting children's reading confidence and ability. 

For more information about our programmes please visit our website and watch our videos.

About the role 

Working for 2 hours per day, 5 days a week (term-time only) at Galleywall Primary School in Bermondsey, this role will involve delivering a programme of 1:1 focussed sessions for selected Reception and Year 1 children.  The ELI will be trained to use Chapter One’s specialised online tool designed to support learners who are at risk of falling behind with their phonics.

We are looking for a highly motivated, energetic individual who enjoys working with young children and who wants to make their mark in a fast-growing charity. We can offer training, a small friendly team and a chance to improve the lives of children facing disadvantage.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct an initial baseline assessment of selected target children in Reception and Year 1 to determine where further support is needed.

• Use Chapter One’s online tool to deliver differentiated, daily, 1:1, targeted, 7 minute phonics sessions to pupils using a systematic, synthetic approach.

• Use a variety of additional activities to reinforce phonics skills.

• Support children to use their secure phonics knowledge to read decodable books.

• Develop pupils’ phonics fluency and confidence in preparation for the Year 1 Phonics Screening Check, where applicable. 

• Document each session with a child, including the skills practised or mastered and a goal for the next session.

• Maintain and update daily pupil progress trackers, identifying phonics skills secured and areas requiring consolidation to inform future teaching. 

• Challenge pupils to reach each new goal and celebrate pupil success.

• Work closely and on an ongoing basis with classroom teachers, reading support staff and the school team to understand progression of the schools phonics teaching.

• Work closely with classroom teachers to establish tailored plans for each child.

• Provide school leaders with data and information on pupil progress.

• Gather feedback from school on progress of the programme and any implementation challenges, aiming to help Chapter One to continuously improve programme delivery.

• Collaborate with colleagues at Chapter One to further improve the ELI model, the online tool and programme delivery.

Qualifications Criteria

• Maths and English GCSE at Grade 5 or above.

• Right to work in the UK.

We are looking for applicants with the following essential qualities:

• Experience of working in education or childcare.

• Willingness to undergo further training in phonics pedagogy.

• Highly motivated, energetic individual with excellent interpersonal and organisational skills.

• Ability to adapt and embrace a changing environment.

• Excellent personal planning and a proven ability to work independently.

• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships at all levels inside and outside the organisation.

• Highly computer literate with hands-on experience of using MS Office and platforms and tools such as Google analytics, PowerPoint and more.

• An understanding of Child Safeguarding.

• A commitment to Chapter One’s mission and values.

Ideally, applicants will also have the following desirable qualities:

• Experience in supporting young children with phonics in a classroom setting.

How to Apply 

Please send your CV (maximum 2 A4 sides) and a covering letter via Charity Jobs. Your covering letter (maximum 1 side of A4) should: 

1) Outline why you’re the right person for this role and how you meet the skills & experience detailed in the job description.

2) Tell us about how our organisational mission is in line with your values. 

Applications that fail to meet these criteria will automatically be discounted. We understand that you may use AI to help craft your application, but do remember that we will be looking for individuals who write a letter that stands out. We want you to have every opportunity to shine and to show us your talents - please let us know if there is anything we can do to make sure the assessment process works for you.

Chapter One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value and celebrate diversity in backgrounds and experience and are deliberate about the kind of inclusive teams we are building. Literacy is a universal concern, and we need people from all backgrounds to maximise our innovation, creativity and impact. We especially welcome applications from persons who have experienced disadvantage and/or from those who are of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities who are currently underrepresented in the organisation.

Chapter One is committed to safeguarding children and young people. All post holders are subject to a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service disclosure. Copies of our Safeguarding Policy and Safer Recruitment Policy are available on request.

N.B. Stage 1 interviews are planned for 17/07/2026 with any successful applicants being invited to a second interview on 22/07/2026. These dates have been scheduled based on the recruiting team’s availability, however we will make every effort to accommodate alternative requests where possible.

We're looking for a passionate, compassionate and resilient Support Worker to join our Homelessness Social Care Service in Brent. No personal care or experience is required, just the right values

£30,784.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel like you have an exciting future? You'll feel at home here.
Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.
Our benefits include:
* Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
* A generous pension - we will contribute up to 8% and life assurance cover up to 3x Pensionable Salary (T&Cs apply)
* Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
* Fully paid induction programme and further training
* ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
* Cycle to work scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
* Online wellbeing resources
* Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution
* Free DBS
All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.
A Support Worker will help to enable vulnerable people with complex support needs to manage their licences and move towards greater independence within the community by providing a flexible and individually tailored support package.
This role will be based at for Pound Lane, which is a high complex needs 24-hour service with same shift pattern.

The working pattern for this role is: - 5 days a week, working over a seven day pattern, weekends included. Shift pattern 8am-4am and late shift 1.30pm-9.30pm

What you'll do:
* Undertake key-working responsibilities for a caseload assigned by the Team Leader / Manager
* Oversee the daily running of the service ensuring all health and safety responsibilities are met
* Raise safeguarding alerts and complete incident reports within specified timeframe
* Undertake initial and continuous assessment of needs and potential risks and agree levels of support and actions
* Create support/action plans for providing appropriate support based on the assessment and reflecting the services and resources available
* Support customers to undertake domestic tasks wherever possible, including practical assistance where they have not yet developed the skills, to ensure customers enjoy a high quality of living standards
* Support customers to move on from the service through their identified move on pathway liaising with our Resettlement Officer and Brent Housing team.

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead

About you:
- Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
- Approachable and open behaviour
- Prefers working as part of a group or team
- Is fundamentally calm and resilient, does not let emotion adversely affect them or obscure their judgement
- Has a practical and logical mind and is naturally well organised
- Thrives on change and enjoys dynamic diverse environments

What you'll bring:

Desirable:
- Up to NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent or experience in the social care/charity sector.

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.
We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:
* We focus on Excellence and innovation.
* We are Caring and Compassionate.
* We are Inclusive and Trusted.
* We work in Partnership and are One-Team.
Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Please see our website for full Job description

The Operations Associate is an administration role which will provide vital day to day coordination for the Foundation's leadership and operations teams. This role will require close attention to detail, strong planning and organisational skills, and a proactive mindset. 

The Operations and Administration Associate will be comfortable working alongside all internal colleagues, and building relationships with external stakeholders whilst providing administrative support. 

The key areas of responsibility for this role are:

• Providing administrative and diary support to the CEO and Executive Team (40% of role)

• Providing administrative support to our programme delivery, supporting the smooth running of our activities and events (30% of role)

• Supporting the smooth running of organisation wide operations, including HR and finance administration, internal events and office management. (30% of role)

Team Overview

The role sits within our Operations Team, reporting to the Director of Operations. 

We are growing and strengthening our Operations Team, consisting of the Director of Operations, Events and Operations Officer, Programme Operations Officer and Finance Officer. Our remit is to ensure the smooth running of our organisation, through developing robust systems, efficient processes, accurate data management, and effective support for our programmes and partners.

This role will also contribute within a new cross-organisational circle that brings together colleagues from operations, communications and evaluation to share insights and support the ongoing development and quality of our programmes.

Duties

1. Administrative and diary support to Executive Team

We have an Executive Team consisting of a CEO, 3 Executive Directors and Director of Operations. Working closely with the team, you will:

• Act as the primary point of contact for the CEO and Executive Director's schedules.

• Proactively manage complex diaries, resolving scheduling conflicts and ensuring appropriate balance between meetings, event delivery and office time. 

• Manage travel arrangements, accommodation bookings, and logistics for the executive team.

• Provide meeting support, including scheduling, preparing agendas, and taking minutes or tracking action points for leadership meetings.

2. Administrative support to our programme delivery

You will hold close day to day contact with our Events and Operations Officer, who is responsible for the smooth running and participant experience at all of our in person events. We are growing our offer to our partners and programme members, and as such, have a growing number of administrative and supporting tasks, including:

• Support the logistics of external programme events, including booking venues, arranging catering, and managing travel.

• Produce and manage event registers and attendee lists.

• Assist with key processes relating to programme partner onboarding and offboarding.

• Support data entry and ensure accurate records are kept within our CRM (HubSpot) regarding programme activities.

3. Organisation wide operational support

We have a lean backbone team, who are responsible for the smooth running of our operational functions. We strive to implement policies and processes that are clear, and reduce burden on the wider team, which in turn allows them to focus on achieving our organisation's goals. You will:

• Finance Administration: Support the Finance Officer with routine financial administration, including raising invoices, tracking expenses, and assisting with the partner payment process.

• HR & Office Management: Support central operational tasks such as ordering IT equipment, managing office supplies, and assisting with basic HR administration (e.g. new starter onboarding documentation).

• Internal Events: Coordinate logistics for internal team meetings, staff away days, and organisation-wide events.

• General Admin: Monitor central shared inboxes, routing inquiries to the appropriate team members, and handle general administrative duties to ensure smooth office and remote-work operations.

Working at The Reach Foundation

Our Values

Here are the Reach Foundation, we have a set of lived values that guide our work; 

Rigour. We are clear slighted about the challenges babies, children and young people face. We use the best available evidence to inform our work, strive for excellence in all we do and support each other to attain this. 

Relationships. We invest in building the strong relationships needed to tackle challenging, complex problems. 

Intentionality. The most important decisions we make are about how we use our time and energy. We evaluate our work and think very carefully about what we start, stop and continue doing. 

Action. We have a strong bias to action. We believe that also long as we learn and adapt and work with others, we can make positive change for babies, children and young people. 

Justice. We are working to create a more socially just world. The way we work should always support that goal.

How we work

This role is advertised as working from home. Our Director of Operations lives in Leeds, and we would like to open this role to someone who is committed to working from a location near Leeds once a week/fortnight.

The role will not entail significant travel, but we would expect the successful candidate to attend 6 team days per year, and staff the occasional event.

We adopt an agile working policy, and believe great work happens when people feel trusted, connected, and able to adapt to what the day asks of them. In practice, agile working to us means:

• We expect you to fully deliver your work. Our commitments and deadlines to each other and our partners matter, and work is completed on time and to the standard our team agrees on. 

• You are trusted to organise your day thoughtfully, meaning you can start early or finish later, take a longer lunch break, or work from home. 

• We expect you to communicate regularly. A remote team relies on connection, therefore we expect you to keep your team in the loop, share challenges and be open to shifting plans if needed.

Ultimately, we believe blending responsibility with flexibility means you are able to bring your best self to work. 

Our Commitment to Inclusion

We believe that we can't tackle the complex challenges facing babies, children, and young people, without catalysing action that draws from diverse perspectives and is led by a wide range of voices. We are therefore committed to an inclusive world where every voice, experience, and background contributes to our shared goal of a more socially just future for all - within, around and beyond our organisation.

As we seek to build a team as diverse as the communities we serve, we actively encourage applications from anyone who feels their skills, experience and motivations could serve well in this role. We strongly encourage those with varied lived experiences, disciplines and identities to apply.

Other Details

Salary: £29,664

Interview: Week Beginning 26th April (online)

Location: The role is national, managing teams in Northern Ireland, Wales and across England. You will need to be able to work at one of our BookTrust offices in London, Leeds, Belfast or Cardiff for an average of 8 days per month whilst some of these collaboration days may be worked in partner locations, at events or stakeholder meetings in any part of the country. The position will require regular travel to BookTrust office bases and to visit and engage as needed.

BookTrust is the UK’s largest children’s reading charity. We know that children who read are happier, healthier, more empathetic, and more creative. They also do better at school.

Working with every local authority and across every region in the country, and supported by Arts Council funding, we reach over 3 million families a year via partners in schools, children’s centres, health visitors and libraries. This incredible network helps us to get children reading across the country.

This is a new role within the organisation and the postholder will be responsible for defining aspects of the role, building relationships and processes that will enhance our ways of working as part of wider organisational processes. 

You will be an excellent communicator who manages up effectively and who is comfortable working across a matrixed managed team. You will work closely with the Director of Partnerships in building relationships, systems and processes that support our delivery across regions and countries as well as working closely with key role holders such as but not confined to the Head of Partnerships Development, and Head of Programme for Vulnerable Children.

The Head of Partnerships Delivery will lead and coordinate our early years scaled programme delivery as well as ensuring activities to support delivery and development of our vulnerable children’s work are catered or within team processes and relationship building with strategic and local stakeholders.

This work spans the organisation – and will have a close working relationships with key stakeholders in operations on aspects of the work as well as to research and impact, design and innovation, growth planning, communications, profile-raising and income generation – and requires strong collaborative working to draw on skills and capacity in all these areas. 

To apply, please complete the application along with a copy of your CV.

Want to join us? To find out more about who we are please go to our website. 

We actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups and welcome candidates from all backgrounds and communities. 

Please note that this advert may close early should we receive a high volume of suitable applications. 

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity

We aim to provide an inclusive recruitment process and actively welcome applications from diverse talent pools: minority ethnic candidates, candidates with disabilities and long-term conditions and candidates from underrepresented communities.

We are committed to equality of opportunity and want to ensure we have an accessible application process for all candidates. If you need any reasonable adjustments or would like us to do anything differently during the application process, please contact our HR team (contact details can be found on our website). 

BookTrust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The recruitment and selection process reflect our commitment to safeguarding therefore, the suitability of all prospective employees will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment, and pre-employment checks.

Caritas Social Action Network

Policy and Public Affairs Officer (maternity leave)

Location: office in London, with mostly working from home, regular travel in England and Wales, and rare travel overseas.

Contract: full-time, to cover a team member’s maternity leave

Salary: £30,00

Closing date: Monday 13 July at 12 noon

Interview date: Thursday 16 July in person, in London

CSAN is the official agency of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice affecting people who live in England and Wales. We’re facing a steep rise in poverty and significant pressures on social, economic and church resources. Currently, the Church is called to raise a prophetic voice against poverty and the rhetoric of division and work for the building of a more just society.

Over the last 20 years, CSAN has built up a network of 50 diocesan and direct service charities with a combined annual spend on social mission estimated at £400m, excluding the work of schools and religious congregations. Our members build up local community life in diverse ways, and many of them support individuals in difficulty, including with housing, prison and detention, social isolation, ill-health, violence, disability, employment, care, therapeutic and welfare support.

The key responsibilities of the post are:

1. To scan the social policy environment to capture developments in legislation, consultation papers and Bills relevant to the Caritas network for the purpose of comprehensive tracking and briefing.

2. To deliver an effective programme of Catholic advocacy and political campaigns that contributes to the common good, with particular attention to the priorities of the dignity of workers, child poverty, social care and end of life; supporting and connecting well with the team’s other activities, and where possible with the CSAN membership’s priorities,

3. To draft campaign and advocacy materials for the range of media channels used by CSAN and support the CEO in engaging with the press and approaches from campaigning organisations including contributing to CSAN’s social media networks.

4. To provide admin support and contribute to CSAN’s Alliances as required, especially the Advocacy Alliance and the Criminal Justice Alliance with information and education on policy and legislation.

5. To ensure that our advocacy is consistent with the Bishops’ understanding of the Church’s role in society and supports the priorities of the Bishops’ Conference, especially the Department for Social Justice.

6. To act as a conduit of information and communication between the Bishops’ Conference and the CSAN members, under the guidance of the CEO, assisting CBCEW where possible in gathering information and the lived experience of poverty.

7. To develop and contribute to practice materials for the network, especially in the areas of campaigning, advocacy, social policy and formation for mission.

8. To oversee monitoring of the Catholic press and relevant wider networks for relevant articles, developments and campaigns.

9. To support the general work of CSAN as required by the CEO, including leading in the development and organisation of the charity in specific areas subject to skills and experience.

The work of the small national team requires a high level of integrity and teamwork, respect for and capacity to navigate complex civil and church contexts at pace, and a stable commitment to personal formation and training. Our Policy and Public Affairs Officer (maternity leave) will bring a professional track record of relevant research and analysis, production of compelling communications, and diligent administration. A satisfactory basic DBS check and references are required.

CSAN is a member of Caritas Internationalis, one of the largest humanitarian networks in the world, with national agencies in over 160 countries, and among the most successful examples of organised Catholic social action in modern times.

Location: The role is national, managing teams in Northern Ireland, Wales and across England. You will need to be able to work at one of our BookTrust offices in London, Leeds, Belfast or Cardiff for an average of 8 days per month whilst some of these collaboration days may be worked in partner locations, at events or stakeholder meetings in any part of the country. The position will require regular travel to BookTrust office bases and to visit and engage as needed.

BookTrust is the UK’s largest children’s reading charity. We know that children who read are happier, healthier, more empathetic, and more creative. They also do better at school.

Working with every local authority and across every region in the country, and supported by Arts Council funding, we reach over 3 million families a year via partners in schools, children’s centres, health visitors and libraries. This incredible network helps us to get children reading across the country.

This is a new role within the organisation and the new role holder will have a chance to shape and build the role over time.  You will be a strong leader with great people skills -experience of working with and leading teams working in geographically dispersed locations is advantageous. 

You will have a clear experience the public sector landscape with a track record of relationships building, and an understanding of the local government policy landscape. With a collaborative approach to working across interconnecting complex work areas, you will be comfortable working within a matrix style of management for your won direct reports and those of other teams. 

You may have charity or statutory setting experience, and will have the ability to set out a strategic direction for partnerships team members as well as being hands on in developing new relationships to support our work as well as being able to produce high quality written materials, analyse complex data and respond dynamically to a changing external landscape.

You will be an excellent communicator who manages up effectively and who is comfortable working across a matrixed managed team. You will have the ability to work closely with the Director of Partnerships in building relationships, and developing and delivering on strategies that support impact in our early years programmes by guiding the work of our partnerships team.  You will be working closely with key role holders such as but not confined to the Head of Partnerships Delivery, and Head of Programme for Vulnerable Children.

The Head of Partnerships Development will ensure increasingly effective pathways to families by setting out ways of working that ensure delivery teams can access these routes, influence decision makers and develop and build the right relationships for greatest impact. Along with the Director of partnerships the role holder will aim to both influence and respond to central, local and regional policy initiatives in the sector to support BookTrust’s mission to get all children reading, especially those from low income and vulnerable family backgrounds.
The role holder will ensure internal stakeholders are briefed on the local government landscape and that risks and opportunities are clearly articulated.

This work spans the organisation – from within our partnerships team to our research and impact, communications and external affairs, design and innovation, growth planning, communications, profile-raising and income generation – and requires strong collaborative working to draw on skills and capacity in all these areas. 

The role will work internally and externally to ensure the right inputs to ensure success for our scaled programmes, supporting everything from design to upskilling our team and relationship building across the local government and regional and country landscape.

To apply, please complete the application along with a copy of your CV.

Want to join us? To find out more about who we are please go to our website. 

We actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups and welcome candidates from all backgrounds and communities,

Please note that this advert may close early should we receive a high volume of suitable applications. 

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity

We aim to provide an inclusive recruitment process and actively welcome applications from diverse talent pools: minority ethnic candidates, candidates with disabilities and long-term conditions and candidates from underrepresented communities.

We are committed to equality of opportunity and want to ensure we have an accessible application process for all candidates. If you need any reasonable adjustments or would like us to do anything differently during the application process, please contact our HR team (contact details are available on our website).

BookTrust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The recruitment and selection process reflect our commitment to safeguarding therefore, the suitability of all prospective employees will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment, and pre-employment checks.

We're looking for a compassionate and resilient Support Worker to join our Mental Health Service located in Richmond. No personal care or experience required, just the right values.

£29,004.00 per annum, working 37.5 hours per week.

Want to feel in control of your career? You'll feel at home here.

Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.

Our benefits include:

• Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
• A generous pension - we will contribute up to 8% and life assurance cover up to 3x Pensionable Salary (T&Cs apply)

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

To enable vulnerable people living in a variety of different tenures to manage their tenancies/ licences and move towards greater independence within the community by providing a flexible and individually tailored support package. Support Worker will give practical support to help people maintain their tenancy, stay well, exercise choice and control in their care and lives and participate in the community. Support is also provided to develop a model of re-enablement towards self-advocacy, self-management and empowerment, incorporating the principles and practice of recovery, co-production and peer support.

What you'll do:

This is not an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time and is subject to change in accordance with the needs of Look Ahead.

Post-holders will be required to demonstrate strengths in all the indicators set out in the relevant Look Ahead Management Competency Model. More specifically, the post-holder will:

• Undertake key-working responsibilities for a caseload assigned by the Senior Support Worker/Team Leader/ Contract Manager. Creatively working to engage with customers.
• Undertake initial and continuous assessment of needs and potential risks and agree levels of support and actions. Promote positive risk taking.
• Create support/action plans for providing appropriate services based on the assessment and reflecting the services and resources available
• Building supportive, trusting relationships with customers.

About you:

• Enjoys social interaction and the company of others, joins in local activities to encourage customer involvement
• Approachable and open behaviour
• Prefers working as part of a group or team

What you'll bring:

Essential:

• Up to NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent or experience in the social care/charity sector

Desirable

• Experience working in mental health

About us:

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Today, 12 children and young people will be diagnosed with cancer. We’ll stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.  

• Salary: c. £56,000 
• Full or Part Time – Open to both options 
• Permanent
• Location: We honestly don’t mind. You’ll be expected to travel between our London (Farringdon) and central Bristol offices as well as other locations across the UK. Either of our office locations or remote home working is acceptable. Please clearly state your preferred location in your application. 
• Closing date: 19 July 2026 (11:59pm) 
• First stage interviews: w/c 10 August
• Second stage interviews: w/c 17 August 

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain.

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.

We challenge the systems and policies that surround children and young people, we highlight gaps and campaign for change. Because we know what a better future could look like. And we know what we need to do to make that future a reality. We need to push harder, reach further and work smarter. And we need the right people on our team to help us get there. People like you.

About the role

We’re looking for a Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) with experience of designing and embedding organisational DEIB strategies and leading culture change at a senior level to join our CEO Office.

This is a pivotal leadership role at a critical moment in our DEIB journey. You will lead the development of our next DEIB strategy, building on our ‘Brave, Not Perfect’ commitments and driving forward meaningful, measurable change across the organisation. Working closely with the CEO and Executive Team, you will shape the vision, influence decision-making and ensure DEIB is fully embedded across our culture, systems and ways of working.

You’ll act as both a strategic lead and an organisational change expert – engaging colleagues, supporting leaders, and ensuring our work reflects the diverse needs of the children and young people we support. This role does not have direct reports but carries significant influence across the organisation, requiring strong leadership, resilience, and the ability to bring others on the journey.

What will I be doing?

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in the job description.

The next step in Young Lives vs Cancer’s diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging journey 

• Building on the work in ‘Brave, not Perfect’ to develop the next iteration of DEIB strategy at Young Lives
• To engage the organisation in the development and context of this work, and to deliver a programme model for the delivery of the goals within the strategy, including monitoring and evaluation 

Build on strong foundations

• To evaluate and develop our programme of internal DEIB engagement ‘DEIB Confident’ to reflect the goals within the next phase of DEIB strategy
• To support and develop our existing staff led networks, and the creation of new ones
• To lead and develop our approach to Equity Impact Assessment
• To coach, advise and challenge senior leaders and allies within the organisation

Leadership

• To role model the culture we want to see at Young Lives vs Cancer, through your behaviour, ways of working and approach to leadership 
• As a Head of department, you will be a key senior leader and manager, providing visible and confident leadership for all of our workforce at Young Lives vs Cancer, and taking a holistic organisational view in all matters – holding our strategy and vision for young cancer patients at heart.

What do I need? 

Diverse perspectives and unique skillsets are at the heart of Young Lives vs Cancer. If you're passionate about making a positive impact and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet the criteria and person specification fully. Your potential is what matters most to us, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment to help you develop.

The key skills we’re looking for in this role are:

• Experience of developing and implementing an EDI strategy at a senior level 
• Understanding and knowledge of EDI legislation, policies and best practices 
• Experience of managing change initiatives and a practical approach to culture change including through systems, policy and procedures 
• Experience of leading, inspiring and motivating staff 
• A good leader with ambition and conviction and the ability and desire to inspire staff at all levels. 
• Demonstrable influencing skills and ability to develop networks both internally and externally 
• Experience of facilitating activities across geographically dispersed operations
• A respected project and change expert with personal confidence
• Understanding of oppression and the barriers that marginalised people face, and strong commitment to deliver anti-oppressive practices
• Demonstrate that Young Lives vs Cancer’s values are at the heart of everything you do: Curious, Creative, Collaborative, Changemaking, and Courageous

What will I gain?

For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Wellbeing days: four days a year to do what works for you – from catching up on training to going for a walk
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it.

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

To ensure fairness and consistency to select the best candidate for this role, all our applications are anonymised up until an interview has been confirmed. We recognise the benefits of AI, but if you're considering using it to submit your application, we encourage you to reflect on the value AI adds. AI tools often lack the personal touch and authenticity that set candidates apart. We want to hear your unique perspective, experiences, and skills, so we encourage you to tell us about your skills and experiences in your own voice.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible.Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

#ShowTheSalary #NonGraduatesWelcome

Job Description

The Head of Delivery & Partnerships is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the 
successful implementation, quality of outcomes, and retention of DFN Project SEARCH programmes 
across the UK, the Republic of Ireland and Iberia, in line with our franchise agreement from Project 
SEARCH . This role leads the Delivery & Partnerships team, ensuring strategic alignment, excellence 
of delivery, and sustained impactful partnerships.
You will play a pivotal role in driving programme quality, ensuring retention, maintaining model 
fidelity, and ensuring high-quality outcomes for interns. Additionally, you will oversee the growth of 
our number of programmes, in line with our strategic regional and national plans. You will also 
contribute to the strategic direction of the organisation, working closely with cross-functional teams 
to maximise DFN Project SEARCH’s impact.
Regular travel throughout the UK will be required, with occasional travel to other areas of our delivery. 
In addition, occasional international travel may be required, for example to the annual conference in 
the United States.

Essential Experience and Skills
• A passion for changing the lives of young people with learning disabilities and / or who are 
autistic 
• Educated to degree level or relevant Professional Qualification 
• Highly motivated and organised self-starters with the ability to work under your own initiative 
• Strong understanding of supported employment, education, and local authority partnerships.
• Experience in project management, partnership development, and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and negotiation skills.
• Experience using data systems and performance management tools.
• Experience delivering training and speaking at events or conferences.
• Understanding of SEND provision and funding arrangements in the UK (e.g., EHCPs, DWP, local 
authorities).
• Experience working with senior stakeholders via formal reporting mechanisms.
• Leadership experience managing people/teams.
• Financial literacy and experience managing budgets.

Desirable Experience and Qualifications
• Experience working with DFN Project SEARCH programmes or similar supported internship 
models.
• Experience in selling services or products and effective account management.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and health & safety in programme delivery.
• Knowledge and experience of using the Microsoft suite, in particular Outlook and Excel 
• Experience of using a CRM for administrative and reporting purposes

DFN Project SEARCH are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young 
people and adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject 
to an enhanced DBS disclosure. 

We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ 
candidates, disabled candidates, and from men, because we would like to increase the 
representation of these groups at this level at DFN Project SEARCH.

-Interviews will take place on:
  1st round July 23rd and July 24th
  2nd and final round: July 31st
  Closing date: Sunday July 12th

-Start date - Asap

About the role

As local campaigning lead in our award-winning public affairs and campaigns team, you will play a pivotal role in driving Sands’ mission to save babies’ lives and ensure bereaved families receive the care and support they need.

You will need experience of delivering and evaluating impactful campaigns, and of working in close partnership with those with lived experience to create meaningful, lasting change at a local or national level.

This is a dynamic, outward-facing role that combines strategic campaigning with hands-on community organising. You will have the skills to support and develop a network of local campaigners, empowering volunteers and supporters to take action in their communities, influence decision-makers, and improve services over the long term. You will also feel comfortable representing Sands at a local level, developing strong relationships to amplify the organisation’s voice and impact.

Working collaboratively across the organisation, you will ensure campaigns are evidence-based, inclusive, and shaped by the lived experiences of diverse bereaved families. You will create compelling content and digital actions, support media engagement, and use data and insight to evaluate impact and continuously strengthen our approach.

This role offers an opportunity to combine leadership, influencing and community engagement skills in a purpose-driven environment, making a tangible difference to families and communities across the UK.

Main Purpose of Job 

To lead Sands’ local campaigning function.

Co-lead impactful campaigns at a local and devolved nation level with bereaved parents and families, supporting Sands core aims to save babies lives and ensure anyone affected by the death of a baby receives the care and support they need by:

1. Leading the implementation and evaluation of Sands local campaigns to further our core aims.

2. Developing the capacity of Sands local volunteers, supporters and campaigners to take action to improve their local services in the long-term.

3. Ensuring that Sands campaigns are evidence based and reflect the views and experiences of a diverse range of bereaved parents and families.

Principle Tasks and Responsibilities 

Leading implementation, and evaluation of Sands local campaigns to further Sands core aims.

• Lead local campaigns at Sands in line with our local campaigning strategy, collaborating and planning with key internal stakeholders, and staying up to date with best practise in local campaigning and community organising techniques externally.
• Evaluate the success of the local campaigns with internal and external stakeholders, implementing recommendations for future improvement.
• Work with colleagues to grow Sands’ local campaigning presence across the UK, including supporting funding applications to build staff capacity.
• Manage the budget for local campaigning.
• Represent Sands at a local level, attending meetings, and building relationships, with local politicians, NHS and council officials, journalists, third sector organisations, and other local stakeholders.
• Produce engaging campaigns content for use digitally across different platforms and in hard copy, working with the engagement team to ensure asks are effectively communicated to key audiences.
• Create compelling e-actions to support our campaigns using the Sands digital campaigning platform.
• Work with colleagues to support the production of press releases and responses to media inquiries.
• Organise campaigns meetings and events (virtual or in person).
• Recruit and line manage local campaigns staff, supporting and collaborating with them to roll out impactful local campaigns in more areas (subject to future funding).

Developing the capacity of Sands volunteers, supporters, and campaigners to take action to improve their local services in the long-term. 

• Manage local campaign groups of bereaved parents and families, empowering and motivating them to implement campaigns to solve issues that affect them and create long-term change in their communities.
• Using community organising techniques to build the capacity of local campaigners and groups to campaign independently in the long-term – connecting local people, facilitating workshops and discussions, developing local campaign leaders, and recruiting new members into campaigns.
• Work collaboratively with teams working with Sands supporters and volunteers to maximise the impact of our campaigns, including supporting the creation of effective campaign supporter journeys.
• Create written and visual resources to support campaigning.
• Develop training sessions to build campaigning skills, to be delivered online or in person, or recorded.
• Provide advice and support to Sands campaigners via email, telephone and video call.
• Ensure key data and information about Sands campaigns and our campaigners are up to date and stored in the relevant place, including the Sands database.

Ensure that Sands campaigns are evidence based and reflect the views and experiences of a diverse range of bereaved parents and families.

· Undertake evidence gathering projects to support Sands campaigns work, including collating and analysing data and presenting findings in an accessible and engaging way.

· Ensure that the views of bereaved parents and families inform Sands campaigns and provide opportunities for Sands volunteers to get involved in our campaigning activity.

· Provide direct support to bereaved parents to help them become confident campaigners, so they are well informed, equipped to speak out and know how to go about it.

General tasks 

· Undertake any other duties commensurate with the role as required by the Head of Public Affairs and Campaigns and the Director of Research, Education and Policy.

· Model the culture and values of Sands at all times.

· Work flexibly with other members of staff and team, with some evening/weekend working.

· Maintain a high level of confidentiality and professional conduct.

· Abide by all Sands Policies and Procedures and undertake all mandatory training as required.

· Participate actively in annual appraisals and personal development reviews.

· Actively promote and embody the vision, mission, and values of Sands including a commitment to Equality, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EEDI).

· Occasional evening and weekend working.

This job description is not contractual and may be amended from time to time to reflect the changing needs of the organisation.

The Youth Endowment Fund  

Programme Delivery Manager - Change Team 

 
Reports to: Senior Grants and Commissioning Manager 

Salary: £42,000 

Location: Central London or Hybrid 

Contract: 2-year fixed term – potential to extend 

Closing date: 9 am, Tuesday 14th July 

Interview dates: 28th and 29th July 

About the Youth Endowment Fund 

We’re here to prevent children and young people becoming involved in violence. We do this by finding out what works and building a movement to put this knowledge into practice. 

In recent years violent crime has risen significantly. Homicides, assaults, robberies and offences involving weapons have all seen sustained growth. We have also seen large increases in violent crime involving children and young people. This is a tragedy. Every child captured in these numbers is an important member of our community and society has a duty to protect them. 

The Youth Endowment Fund (YEF) is a charity with a £200m endowment and a mission that matters. We exist to prevent children and young people becoming involved in violence. We do this by funding great initiatives, finding what works and working for change - scaling and spreading the practices that make a difference. 

One of the most important things we do is turn evidence into action through our change programmes, working directly with schools, local leaders and services to change practice and prevent violence. To deliver these programmes well, we need clear plans, smooth commissioning and procurement processes, accurate data and strong coordination across teams and partners.

The Programme Delivery Manager role is critical to making that happen, and it has two distinct elements: 

Programme management for two Change programmes: You’ll be the hands-on programme lead for two of our main change programmes. You’ll work closely with the Change delivery team to put clear, aligned plans in place and then brilliantly manage those plans day to day, making sure everyone knows what’s expected of them and by when. 

Commissioning and procurement support for the whole Change team: You’ll also be the go-to source of guidance and advice for Change colleagues who are procuring or commissioning other activity. You’ll help the team navigate processes correctly, ensuring commissioning is captured and maintained accurately in Salesforce and keep our ways of working consistent across the team. By keeping us organised and on track, you’ll help us maximise the impact of every pound we invest. 

Key responsibilities 

Your role has these two distinct but complementary elements. The first is hands-on programme management for two of our main Change programmes. The second is acting as a source of guidance, advice and practical support on commissioning and procurement for the wider Change team. Together, these responsibilities are essential to keeping our programmes on track and our commissioning processes running smoothly and consistently. A detailed list of your key responsibilities is given below: 

1: Hands-on programme management for two Change programmes 

• Lead programme planning and coordination: 

• Work with the delivery team to make sure we have clear, aligned programme plans in place, with timelines, milestones and owners for every workstream. 

• Brilliantly manage those plans day to day, making sure everyone knows what’s expected of them and by when, and that the team stays on track across multiple demanding workstreams. 

• Track dependencies and progress, flag risks to delivery early and coordinate solutions before issues become blockers. 

2: Guidance, advice and practical support on commissioning and procurement for the Change team  

• Manage contracts and commissioning for delivery partners 

• Draft, prepare and execute agreements and subsequent variations with delivery partners and commissioned providers, using Adobe e-Sign where required. 

• Accurately input and maintain all programme data in Salesforce, including deliverables, financial commitments, payment schedules and supporting documents. 

• Ensure timely reporting and compliance with contractual requirements. 

• Resolve payment queries and discrepancies quickly, chasing outstanding invoices and reports where needed, and conduct regular data accuracy spot checks in Salesforce. 

• Support process improvements and ways of working 

• Work with the Senior Grants and Commissioning Manager to keep the team’s commissioning and procurement processes consistent with YEF-wide ways of working. 

• Develop and maintain simple, effective tools for planning, tracking and reporting, building on the systems we already use (including Salesforce). 

• Identify and suggest process enhancements to drive efficiency and consistency across our programme and commissioning operations. 

• Enable effective communication and reporting 

• Serve as the central point of contact for programme delivery, commissioning and procurement requests across the team, ensuring streamlined processes and avoiding duplication. 

• Provide timely responses and clear communication to internal teams and external partners to keep everything moving. 

• Keep senior leadership informed with forward plans, dashboards and progress updates to support better strategic decisions. 

About you 

You’re this sort of person: 

• You’re highly organised and detail-oriented: You can manage multiple workstreams, plans and deadlines without losing sight of accuracy. You take pride in keeping programmes, systems and processes running smoothly. 

• You’re confident with systems and data: You’ve worked with CRM, project management or grant management platforms (ideally Salesforce) and understand the importance of data integrity. You’re comfortable creating, updating and checking records to ensure everything is correct. 

• You like getting things done: You’ve got a track record of making things happen and ensuring tasks are completed on time. You’re reliable and take ownership of your responsibilities. 

• You’re proactive and solution-focused: When something doesn’t match up, like a milestone, payment request or contract detail, you don’t just flag it, you work to resolve it quickly and effectively. 

• You’re brilliant at improving and organising things: You enjoy finding ways to make processes better and more efficient. You’re good at understanding how things work and making them work even better. 

• You’re a great communicator: You build strong relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders providing clear guidance and timely responses. People trust you to keep things moving. 

• You thrive in a support role: You like being the person who makes things happen behind the scenes. You’re motivated by helping teams work efficiently and keeping complex programmes on track. 

• You learn fast and adapt easily: You’re comfortable picking up new systems, processes and ways of working. You’re curious and always looking for ways to improve how things are done. 

• You care about impact and inclusion: You want your work to make a difference in the community and are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in everything you do. 

While it’s not a criteria, we’re especially interested to hear from applicants who have lived experience of youth violence. 

It’s also important to us that the people we hire do not discriminate. We believe in being inclusive and giving everyone an equal chance to succeed. Applications are welcome from all regardless of age, sex, gender identity, disability, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, race, sexual orientation, transgender status or social economic background. 

Hybrid Working Details     

The office is based in Central London. Those living in and around London are expected to be in the office for a minimum of 2 days per week. If you live outside of London and work remotely, you’ll be expected to work from the London office 2 days per month.      

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at the interview stage.  

To apply 

To apply, please send a CV and cover letter, and complete the monitoring form click on "Apply for this" button by 9am Tuesday, 14th July 2026. 

You’ll be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK. 

Interviews will take place in the week commencing: 27th July 2026. 

Benefits Include  

• £1,000 professional development budget annually  

• 28 days holiday plus Bank Holidays   

• Four half days for volunteering activities   

• Employee Assistance Programme – 24hr phone line for free confidential support • Volunteering days - 4 half days per year   

• Death in service - 4 times annual salary   

• Flexible hours. Core office hours 10am – 4pm   

• Financial support including travel and hardship loans   

• Employer contributed pension of 5%  

Personal Data 

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area. 
 

Lead the operations, governance and compliance that enable Solving Kids' Cancer UK to deliver its mission and impact for children and families affected by neuroblastoma. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will play a critical role in ensuring the charity operates effectively, compliantly and sustainably.

This broad and varied leadership role spans governance, risk, HR, IT, data protection and organisational operations, supporting delivery of the charity's strategy through robust systems, policies and processes. Acting as Company Secretary, you will work closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees, providing advice on governance, regulatory requirements and best practice. As a member of the Leadership Team, you will oversee key operational functions, lead cross-organisational projects and deputise for the CEO where required.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a strategic, highly organised and values-driven leader with strong experience in charity operations, governance and compliance. You will have a track record of ensuring organisations are well run, compliant and effectively managed, with the ability to oversee multiple operational areas and support strong governance and decision-making at Board level.

You will be comfortable working across a broad remit, including governance, risk, HR, IT and data protection, and confident providing clear, practical advice to senior leaders and trustees.

Person specification

Key requirements include:

• Significant senior-level experience in operations, governance or compliance within a charity or similar environment. 
• Strong understanding of charity governance and regulation, with experience supporting boards and senior leadership. 
• Experience overseeing organisational functions such as HR, IT, data protection or risk. 
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and lead cross-organisational work effectively. 
• Strong judgement, integrity and the ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion. 

See our Recruitment Pack for the full role description and specification and for information about Solving Kids' Cancer UK. 

This is an opportunity to make a significant contribution at the heart of a small, ambitious charity where strong operations are a vital enabler of impact for children and families.

Location: Home-based, within easy reach of London, with regular travel to the London office and occasional UK-wide travel.

First-stage interview: Thursday 6 August 

Second-stage interview: Thursday 13 August

Contract: Full-time, permanent
Hours: Full-time
Reports to: Chair; Board of Directors 
Location: Hackney
Salary: £50,000-60,000 depending on experience.
Pension: HSoF participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, free onsite lunches .
Probation period: Six months.

About Hackney School of Food

Hackney School of Food is an award-winning food education hub based in the grounds of Mandeville Primary School in Clapton, East London. Through our teaching kitchen and educational garden, we help children, families and communities build the skills, confidence and knowledge to grow, cook and eat good food.

Each year, we welcome more than 10,000 visits to our kitchen and garden, delivering curriculum programmes for schools alongside community cooking courses, gardening projects, holiday clubs, corporate volunteering and public events. Since becoming a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2023, we have expanded our facilities, strengthened our governance and built a strong reputation as a leader in food education.

We're now looking for an exceptional Managing Director to build on these strong foundations and lead Hackney School of Food through its next phase of growth and impact.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Managing Director (MD) will provide both strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the organisation delivers its mission while remaining financially resilient, well-governed and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.

The Managing Director is responsible for all aspects of the organisation, including strategy, income generation, finance, governance, partnerships, programme delivery and people leadership. Working closely with a small, committed team and an engaged Board, they will build on strong foundations to grow Hackney School of Food's impact, reach and long-term sustainability.

This is a varied, hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys balancing big-picture thinking with practical delivery. One day you may be developing a new partnership, meeting a prospective funder or working with the Board on future strategy; the next you could be supporting the team, welcoming visitors to the garden or solving day-to-day operational challenges.

Key priorities

In your first 12 months you will:

• Build on Hackney School of Food's strong foundations to deliver the next phase of our strategy and growth.

• Increase and diversify income through fundraising, partnerships and commercial opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability.

• Lead, support and develop a small, ambitious team, fostering a positive and inclusive culture where people can thrive.

• Strengthen relationships with funders, partners and local businesses, helping Hackney School of Food deepen its impact.

• Work closely with the Board to embed strong governance, organisational systems and long-term planning for the future.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership 

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for Hackney School of Food, ensuring delivery of its mission, vision and long-term objectives. 

• Lead the development and implementation of Hackney School of Food's annual business plan and organisational priorities.

• Work with the Board to evolve organisational strategy, identify opportunities, manage risks and support sustainable growth.

• Monitor, report on and respond to organisational performance against agreed objectives and impact measures. 

• Champion Hackney School of Food externally, strengthening its profile and influence.
   

Financial sustainability and income generation 

• Oversee organisational budgeting, financial planning, forecasting and cashflow management, working closely with the Treasurer and accountant.

• Lead income generation across the organisation, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, sponsorship and earned income.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, sponsors and strategic partners.

• Ensure all funding commitments are met, including grant reporting, monitoring and evaluation requirements.

• Identify new opportunities to diversify income and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

Partnerships & External Relations

• Act as the main point of contact for HSoF’s key partners, LEAP Federation and Chefs in Schools to ensure the partnerships are effective and positive.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with other key stakeholders, including local authorities, funders and sponsors.

• Represent Hackney School of Food at meetings, events, and public forums.

• Champion the value of food education and contribute to wider local and national conversations. 

• Ensure programmes remain responsive to community needs through ongoing engagement and consultation. 

Governance and public benefit 

• Ensure the organisation operates in line with its CIC objectives and delivers clear public benefit. 

• Support the Board of Directors to fulfil its governance responsibilities through high-quality reporting, planning and decision-making.

• Prepare Board papers, reports and agendas, ensuring timely and accurate information is available to support effective governance.

• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Directors quarterly.

• Act as the primary link between the Board and the operational team.

• Maintain effective governance, delegated authority and accountability frameworks. 

• Support the Board in meeting all statutory and regulatory obligations relating to the CIC.

People, Culture and safeguarding

• Provide leadership to a small core team (currently c.4 employees), directly managing staff and fostering a positive, inclusive culture. 

• Provide oversight and support for a wider network of approx. 15 freelance contractors to ensure consistently high-quality delivery.

• Lead recruitment, induction, performance management and professional development in line with safer recruitment and equality principles. 

• Ensure effective organisational structures, clear roles, and performance accountability.

• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.

• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, embedding safeguarding throughout the organisation maintaining compliance with all relevant requirements. 

• Develop organisational systems, policies and practices that support an inclusive, high-performing workplace.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.

• Oversee organisational policies, procedures and continuous improvement, ensuring policies and legal requirements are up to date, clearly communicated and embedded across the organisation. 

• Ensure compliance with employment law, health and safety, safeguarding, GDPR and other relevant legislation. 

Personal specification

Essential experience 

• Senior leadership experience with responsibility for organisational performance and accountability. 

• Experience securing income through fundraising, partnerships and/or commercial activity.

• Experience of financial leadership, including budget setting, forecasting and cashflow oversight.

• Experience working closely with a Board, Trustees or governing body to translate strategic vision into operational delivery. 

• Experience building and managing successful partnerships with funders, businesses and community stakeholders. 

• Experience in managing and motivating a team, creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture. 

• Experience of governance, compliance and organisational risk management.

• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth or community context.

• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, make sound decisions and remain resilient in a resource-constrained environment.

Essential skills and attributes

• Passion for Hackney School of Food's mission and the role of food education in improving health, wellbeing and community connection. 

• Strategic thinker who is equally comfortable with hands-on operational leadership. 

• Entrepreneurial, resourceful and committed to building long-term financial sustainability and identifying growth opportunities.

• Ability to lead a team through change with sensitivity, clarity and kindness.

• Strong communicator with excellent relationship-building skills. 

• Confident decision-maker with a high level of personal accountability. 

• Committed to equity, inclusion and community-led practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within a Community Interest Company (CIC), social enterprise or charity.

• Knowledge of Hackney, its communities and local stakeholder landscape.

• Experience of working in food education, community food, gardening, environmental education or a related field.

• Experience reviewing and managing contracts, service agreements or other legal documentation.

An inclusive workplace

We know that diverse teams make stronger organisations and are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to fair and inclusive recruitment and will consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

We particularly encourage applications from people who are under-represented in our sector and in leadership roles, including people from the global majority and those whose lived experience brings valuable perspectives from the communities we serve. We also welcome applications from people who live in Hackney or East London.

How to apply

The deadline to apply is Monday 20 July at 9am. Please apply by filling out this application form.

You'll find the link to the application form on our Recruitment Pack which provides more information. 

Stage 1: A one-hour online interview with the Senior Team and Board (24 July) 

Stage 2: On-site interview at Hackney School of Food (30 July), including a short presentation. 

We may also invite the preferred candidate to an informal meeting with the wider team and Board before making a final appointment. 

The successful applicant will need to pass an enhanced DBS check and provide two suitable references. 

We may close the application window earlier if we are inundated with applications, so please don't wait to apply.

If you have any questions about the role or your suitability, please feel free to get in touch with us. You will find a Recruitment pack and email address to contact via our website.