Operation manager jobs in Bermondsey, greater london

At NIoT, we believe teaching is a fundamental societal good, a privilege and a responsibility, and we are looking for two Programme Managers to oversee key operational processes to bring our vision to life!

Are you organised and proactive and thrive on building strong relationships and making things happen? This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in delivering high-quality programmes that support teachers and leaders to develop, grow and make a lasting difference across the education system.

At NIoT, we believe teaching is a fundamental societal good, a privilege and a responsibility. This belief sits at the heart of our work and shapes how we design, deliver and continuously improve professional development for teachers and leaders.

We currently have two vacancies available due to internal secondments. Both are fixed-term contracts with a strong chance of one becoming permanent. In this role, you will help ensure participants have an excellent experience, partners are well supported, and programmes are delivered smoothly, consistently and to a high standard.

You will work closely with colleagues across the Faculty, Programme and campus teams, building strong relationships with Associate Colleges, facilitators and other partners. You will oversee key operational processes, support effective communication, coordinate delivery activity, respond to participant and stakeholder needs, and use feedback and engagement data to inform continuous improvement.

We are looking for someone who is highly organised, proactive and confident working across multiple priorities. You will bring excellent interpersonal and written communication skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to build positive, constructive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. You will also have a good understanding of the DfE coherent offer, including but not limited to ECTP and/or NPQ. You will be motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a national organisation that is working to strengthen teacher and leader development, and you will share our commitment to evidence-informed practice, collaboration and high standards.

This role is based at our Beckenham Campus (BR3 1QP) and is a hybrid role, with the days working at home to be agreed at interview. The role will also involve national travel and occasional overnight stays. The NIoT also brings colleagues together for an annual all-staff away day, which all staff are expected to attend and which usually includes an overnight stay.

Essential criteria

• A commitment to the aims of the National Institute of Teaching.
• A secure understanding of the DfE coherent offer.
• The ability to quality assure delivery and programme experience across multiple programmes.
• Outstanding track record of development and delivery against tight timelines.
• Exceptional interpersonal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• A proactive, entrepreneurial approach and the ability to thrive in a start-up environment.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Desirable criteria

• Qualified Teacher Status.
• A good understanding of NPQs and/or ECTP.
• Previous work experience in Microsoft Teams and Dynamics.
• A degree and/or professional qualification relevant to the post and/or equivalent learning through professional experience.

Key benefits

• Highly competitive pay and pay progression opportunities.
• Flexible start and end working times.
• Flexible working opportunities, with significant scope for hybrid working.
• At least 27 days’ holiday a year (plus 8 bank holidays), rising to 33 days after five years’ service (with an annual discretionary office shutdown between Christmas and New Year).
• Entry to the highly valued Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Excellent opportunities to develop your skills and experience and to progress your career.
• A stimulating, supportive and rewarding working environment with a dedicated team of likeminded professionals.

If you are excited by the opportunity to combine project management, stakeholder engagement and programme delivery in a role that supports teachers and leaders to thrive, we would love to hear from you!

Please visit our vacancies page for more information and to apply.

Closing date: 31 August 2026.
Interview date: w/c 7 September 2026 (at the Beckenham campus).

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications.

Candidates must already have the right to work in the UK, as we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.

As a condition of employment, this post requires a satisfactory enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) with a Children’s Barred List Check and an Occupational Health Check.

This is an exciting opportunity for a Disabled person with strong HR and service management experience to support our high quality Information and Advice and Speaking Up (casework) Services rooted in the Social Model of Disability, Disability Justice, Equity and Human Rights. This role sits within our Senior Leadership Team and is central to the smooth running and growth of our organisation.

• Role: Service Manager
• Reporting To: CEO
• Direct Reports: 3-4 members of our Information and Advice and Speaking Up Teams (including 2 Supervisors)
• Hours: 21 hours per week (flexibility around working pattern but must be available to work on a Monday)
• Salary: £38,934 - £51,912
• Location: Hybrid
• Start Date: 28 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter
• Contract Type: Fixed term until 30 September 2028, with potential of extension dependent upon funding
• This post is subject to a satisfactory Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.

We are looking for an individual with a deep commitment to Disabled people’s rights and passion for leading change. The successful candidate will lead, motivate and support a diverse team of passionate caseworkers, manage impactful services, lead on HR, deputise around safeguarding and develop and maintain key relationships with partners and funders, and more.

What do we mean when we say ‘Disabled’? - We use the term ‘Disabled people’ to mean all people living with an impairment or health condition. This includes:

• People with physical impairments
• People who experience mental distress/mental health issues
• Deaf People
• Hearing Impaired People
• Blind, partially sighted or Vision Impaired People
• People with learning disabilities
• People with long-term health conditions
• Neurodivergent People
• People with invisible impairments

We recognise and respect that some of the people mentioned above do not think of themselves as Disabled but we believe the groups above can face disabling barriers in society.

Team Manager Operations Delivery

We are looking for a Team Manager to support the Senior Operations Delivery Manager in this full-time, hybrid working role.

Position: Team Manager

Location: Leatherhead with hybrid/home working and travel across Surrey

Hours: 37 hours per week

Salary: £34,628.00 (per annum)

Contract: Permanent

Benefits: 5% Pension Employer Contribution, Paid Sick Leave, Blue Light Card Scheme, Vivup Discounts, Staff Social Events, Staff Social & Wellbeing Committee, Celebration Day (in addition to annual leave entitlement)

Closing Date: Sunday 16 August 2026

Interview Date: Thursday 20 August 2026.

The Role

As the Team Manager, you will support the Senior Operations Delivery Manager in leading the GPimhs Community Connectors, Recovery & Connect and Social Prescribing services, managing approximately 10 – 12 staff and ensuring safe, high-quality, recovery-focused service delivery.

Key responsibilities include:

• Operational Leadership.
• Staff Management.
• Performance & Contract Management
• Partnership Working
• Financial & Resource Management
• Safeguarding & Governance

About You

We are looking for someone with either a relevant management qualification or equivalent experience, with:

• Experience of managing multidisciplinary services and staff.
• Experience of safeguarding, risk management and incident management.
• Knowledge of mental health, recovery and community-based services.
• Strong communication, leadership and organisational skills.
• Experience working with statutory and voluntary sector partners.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and database systems.
• The ability to travel across Surrey and work flexibly.

When you click to apply you will be asked to upload your CV and covering letter (in which you’ll explain how you feel your experience is suitable for the role). Please ensure you upload your documents in order to be considered for this role.

About the Organisation

The charity is a mental health and emotional wellbeing charity, supporting Surrey residents since 1994 in Banstead, Elmbridge, Epsom & Ewell and Mole Valley.

Offering a variety of face-to-face and online services, available to adults (aged 16+) living in Surrey who would like to restore and/or maintain their mental and emotional wellbeing (no diagnosis needed). The services are free of charge, with no waiting list and no time limit.

This post is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check, and the successful completion of a probationary period.

You may have experience in areas such as Operations, Operations Coordinator, Operations Lead, Operations Manager, Operations Deputy Manager.

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

Help create a place where people feel welcome.

At Likewise, we believe that places matter.

Every day our Community Hub is used by clients, community members, volunteers, students, partners and staff. People come here for support, community activities, therapy, learning, work, a cup of tea or simply to spend time with others. The way the Hub feels and functions has a real impact on people's experience. 

We're looking for someone to take ownership of the spaces, systems and practical coordination that help everything work well.

This role combines facilities, operations, coordination and community in a way that's quite unusual. You'll look after the day-to-day running of our building, support the wider organisation, coordinate room hire, oversee health and safety, improve systems and help create an environment where people feel welcome and colleagues have what they need to do their best work.

You'll probably enjoy this role if you like creating order, improving how things work and taking ownership. You're someone who notices what needs attention, whether that's a space, a process or a practical problem, and enjoys sorting it out. You get satisfaction from helping things run well and from creating places where people enjoy being.

Likewise is a community-centred mental health charity based in Camden. We believe people thrive through meaningful relationships, supportive communities and opportunities to contribute. We're also trying to build a different kind of organisation—one that values trust, autonomy, learning and shared responsibility. People here are encouraged to think for themselves, contribute ideas and take ownership of their work. 

This role would suit someone with experience of coordinating an office, community space, workplace or similar environment who enjoys balancing practical organisation with working alongside people. If that sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you.

This is a unique opportunity to join an influential organisation working in an increasingly challenging external environment. If you like to be both hands on and strategic, have an in depth knowledge of charity finance, experience of leading effective enabling functions in a small organisation and are passionate about social justice then this could be the home for you in your next role. 

We are looking for an experienced and collaborative leader to work with the CEO and a new leadership team to embed new ways of working following a period of change for the charity. 

You will lead a small team to deliver a supportive and modern experience for our people; effective IT and governance support; manage our fundraising and implement a robust project management approach. This role will be based for two days per week in our office in Hoxton.

We can’t fix issues like poverty, inequality, health and climate change alone. We are fully conscious of the scale of the challenge that faces the country and the urgent need to respond. That’s why the School for Social Entrepreneurs exists, to empower and equip people with entrepreneurial ideas and solutions to grow the social economy. The social economy is a movement of organisations and enterprises that prioritise people and planet. Together, we are committed to tackling the greatest social and environmental challenges of our time.This is a new and exciting role at a significant time of growth for the School for Social Entrepreneurs. In the coming year. we are developing new programmes, working with leaders who are developing small community led social and environmental projects as well as leading larger charities and social businesses developing social investment and housing solutions.

We’re not a traditional funder. Our grants tend to be small, but they punch above their weight, helping social and environmental entrepreneurs take the next step to grow their organisations. Our grants run alongside learning programmes, challenging and supporting leaders. We’re innovative in how we do this, through both traditional and enterprise grants. We lead on Match Trading™, a grant that challenges leaders to grow their trading income, and we are working on further grants innovations.

You will work with our Grants Team, Project Co-ordinators and Assessment Lead to develop and support grant management across a range of programmes. Your role will be to lead on specific programmes, including supporting assessment, onboarding and grant management. You will ensure that grantees are fully supported to manage their grants and ensure that grant management is compliant, auditable, efficient, and timely. You will support the development of grant policies and processes, writing grant paperwork and documentation, overseeing payments, and reporting to the wider Programmes Team and others about our work.

You don’t need to have managed grants before, but you do need to have a good understanding of a wide range enterprises and charities, gained through experience of training, business consultancy or development support. You will have a good understanding of business models, legal structures and financial systems that social and environmental organisations and community run and owned businesses may use. You will need to understand social enterprise finances, be able to read accounts, budgets, cashflows and have a good knowledge of social enterprise income streams.

We need someone who understands how hard it is to start up and grow social and environmental enterprises and can support people from diverse backgrounds in managing their grant, finances and growing their business.

Are you up for the challenge?

Interviews: Friday 18th and Friday 25th September (online)

Working closely with the Investment Operations Manager, you will gain exposure to a broad range of investment processes and stakeholders across the business.

Over time, and depending on performance and interest, there will be opportunities to develop into other areas of the investment team.

The Investment Team is staffed by experienced and well respected individuals and plays a key role in furthering responsible investment activities for the Church of England. We build strong partnerships and use our collective influence to encourage positive change and improve investment and stewardship outcomes and generate long-term value for members of the pension schemes we manage.

This role offers structured development and exposure to a wide range of investment activities.

The post-holder will be expected to work a minimum of one day a week at Church House, Westminster, London.
The role will close for applications on 01 September 2026.

Senior Programmes Manager (Fixed-term contract)

Reports to: Director of Finance and Operations
Hours: Full time with flexible hours. Core hours are 10am to 4pm
Location: Hybrid. London (Embankment) on Wednesdays and Thursdays and remote working
Salary: £44,748 p.a.
Contract length: 13 months (starting mid November 2026)

Applications close: 23:59 on August 28th.

First round interviews: September 8th (online)

Second round interviews: September 16th at The Economist Group’s offices in London.

We are committed to an inclusive recruitment process. If there are any adjustments or support we can provide to help you perform at your best during the interview, please let us know.

BENEFITS

• 25 days annual leave, UK bank holidays and one volunteering day a year, one day for moving home
• A highly competitive pension (up to 11% employer contribution for 5% employee contribution)
• Private health insurance, eye tests and medical checks
• Flexible working: core hours from 10am to 4pm with a minimum of two days spent in the office in London each week (currently Wednesdays and Thursdays)
• 24/7 access to counselling and wellbeing resources through our Employee Assistance Programme
• Income protection insurance and life assurance
• Cycle to work scheme, season ticket loan and gym membership loan
• Free access to The Economist content, including an online subscription, our range of apps, podcasts and more

ABOUT US

The Economist Educational Foundation is a fast-growing charity on a mission to ensure that every child is empowered to think critically and communicate effectively about the world’s most complex current issues.

In 2025-6 our core programme, Topical Talk, more than doubled its reach to over 1 million young people across 99 countries. We are at a time of great opportunity, in England and internationally, and have ambitious plans to keep growing and deepen our impact further.

Topical Talk helps children join inspiring discussions about the news by providing:

• Topical Talk Headlines – award-winning weekly lessons for classroom discussions about global news stories
• Leadership for Change Prize – child-led solutions to complex global issues
• Community partnerships – support and training for teachers via partnerships with Multi-Academy Trusts in the UK and School Districts in America

Our programme has received international recognition, including from HundrED as one of the top 100 education initiatives, from UNESCO as a winner of the Global Media and Information Literacy Awards 2022 and from the Money And Inclusion Awards (MAIA) for best content in 2025.

THE ROLE

We are seeking a highly organised, agile and structured Senior Programmes Manager to lead the operational planning, project management and execution of our flagship educational programmes. In this role, you will be the operational engine behind multiple cross-departmental projects, with a focus on meeting the needs of our global teachers and students, as well as funders.

In this fixed-term role you will work closely with our educational content leads, designers and external stakeholders to ensure our high-impact classroom resources and live events are delivered seamlessly, on time and to the highest standard. Rather than drafting the pedagogy yourself, you will manage the project lifecycles, coordinate workflow across internal and external teams and optimise the systems that allow our world-class educational programmes to reach over 1 million young people globally.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Project and operational management

• Manage the Topical Talk Leadership for Change Prize, Live Lessons, curriculum modules and student workshops end-to-end: from roadmaps and capacity mapping through to impact and evaluation
• Project manage the filming required for our content delivery, including the booking and management of experts, production teams and Economist colleagues
• Track and coordinate progress across content creators, graphic designers, proofreaders and editors to ensure all deliverables meet tight production deadlines
• Balance team workloads across concurrent educational projects and plan capacity for incoming projects
• Continuously refine workflow processes to streamline resource creation and evaluation

Programme governance and evaluation

• Partner with the Director of Programmes to track key performance indicators (KPIs), evaluate audience reach and maintain rigorous data collection for monitoring and evaluating our programmes
• Proactively identify bottlenecks, content risks or scheduling delays, implementing swift mitigation strategies to keep delivery on track

Live Lesson and workshop operations

• Manage the end-to-end operational execution of student workshops and our Live Lessons – handling scheduling, platform setups and logistics
• Coordinate school visits for content testing and observation, ensuring all safeguarding and operational requirements are fully met

Stakeholder and relationship coordination

• Serve as the primary operational point of contact for external topic experts, guest contributors, and editorial contributors from The Economist Group
• Maintain clear lines of communication between the programmes team, marketing, operations and external partners to ensure projects are aligned with strategic aims
• Manage external freelance contractors and vendors, with support from the administrative officer

SKILLS AND BEHAVIOURS

Whether you come from a project or educational management background or are a leader in charity operations, you possess the following:

• Outstanding ability to build, manage and maintain complex multi-phase project plans with precision and accountability
• A relentless eye for detail, operational rigor, and a knack for creating clean, efficient workflows out of complex tasks
• A proactive, self-starting mindset capable of foreseeing risks, resolving bottlenecks quickly and keeping cross-functional teams moving forward
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to effectively coordinate across diverse stakeholders – from freelance producers and internal creative teams to senior editors and external experts
• A collaborative nature. You motivate project contributors, keep teams aligned and foster a supportive working environment
• Discipline with deadlines, whereby you act as a dependable anchor for the team, managing requests consistently

EXPERIENCE

You have…

• Proven project management experience where you have demonstrated success in managing content creation, publishing workflows or educational delivery pipelines from conception to completion
• Experience using project management and collaboration platforms to drive team accountability and workflow tracking
• A track record of coordinating multi-disciplinary teams (e.g. writers, designers, subject-matter experts) under tight production schedules
• Experience implementing monitoring, reporting and evaluation frameworks to track project success metrics and user engagement
• Practical experience running hybrid, in-person, or large-scale virtual workshops and webinars

You might have…

• Formal project management certifications or training
• Background working within ed-tech, publishing or non-profit environments

We're particularly keen for you to apply if you are from a community under-represented in the charity sector or have lived experience of facing extra barriers because of your background.

Harris Hill is delighted to be working on behalf of Freelands Foundation, a charity dedicated to supporting innovative work across education, galleries and the wider arts sector. As HR Manager, you will play a pivotal role in delivering and overseeing the Foundation’s people strategy as it enters an exciting period of growth, including the expansion of key programmes, reaching new audiences and a major capital project. The role will be initially office-based throughout the probation period, moving to a hybrid arrangement of four days per week in the office thereafter.

Reporting to the Director of Finance and Operations, you will oversee the full employee lifecycle, ensuring HR processes, policies and practices are effective, compliant and aligned with the Foundation’s values and strategic objectives. This will include overseeing recruitment, selection and onboarding, employee records, performance management, training plans, flexible working and reasonable adjustment requests, as well as supporting disciplinary and grievance processes. You will review and improve HR systems and processes, maintain and update the employee handbook and HR policies in line with UK employment legislation and best practice, and provide advice and support to managers and colleagues across the organisation. You will also contribute to the Foundation’s wider people strategy, including its approach to diversity, equity and inclusion, employer brand, benefits and organisational development.

We are looking for an experienced HR generalist with substantial experience of supporting employees and senior managers within a small to medium-sized organisation. You will have a strong understanding of UK employment law and practical experience of delivering effective recruitment, onboarding and performance management processes, alongside the ability to develop well-researched recommendations on HR policy and practice. Excellent interpersonal, influencing, written and interviewing skills are essential, as is the ability to remain calm, objective and organised when managing sensitive or competing priorities. You will be proactive, collegiate and comfortable working in a deadline-driven environment, with a genuine commitment to Freelands Foundation’s mission to champion art education and a belief in the intrinsic value of art. A minimum CIPD Level 3 qualification or equivalent is required. Charity or arts-sector experience, change management, and coaching experience would be advantageous.

To apply, please submit your up-to-date CV by 30 August at 23:59.

Shortlisted candidates will be asked to submit a supporting document answering some specific questions after reviewing the full job description. Please note that only applicants with an unrestricted right to work in the UK will be considered for this position.

Please note, only successful applicants will be contacted with further information.

As a leading charity recruitment specialist and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Background

The Lily Foundation is the UK's leading charity dedicated to advancing research, raising awareness, and providing support for individuals and families affected by mitochondrial disease ('mito'). Our vision is for a world in which every mitochondrial disease patient has a voice and access to treatment, support to improve their life and, ultimately, a cure.

We currently raise around £1m each year, with community fundraising, challenges and special events generating the majority of our income. With a new fundraising strategy in place, exciting plans for growth and increasing opportunities to engage supporters in different ways, we're looking for someone to bring these programmes together into a joined-up public fundraising portfolio.

This is a fantastic opportunity to help shape the future of public fundraising at The Lily Foundation, building on our strong foundations while developing new ways to inspire supporters, grow income and maximise long-term engagement.

About the role

This is an exciting new role with responsibility for leading and developing Lily's public fundraising programme, bringing together our sports events, special events, community fundraising and emerging individual giving activity.

Reporting to the COO, you'll provide leadership across the public fundraising team, ensuring our programmes work together to deliver an outstanding supporter experience and sustainable income growth. You'll line-manage three colleagues, helping them succeed in their roles while creating a joined-up approach to planning, delivery and stewardship across the portfolio.

Alongside overseeing one of Lily's largest fundraising income streams, you'll also play an important role in developing our Individual Giving, Regular Giving and legacy fundraising activity, helping turn these emerging programmes into strong and sustainable sources of future income. If you're someone who enjoys developing people, spotting opportunities and bringing different strands of fundraising together, this is a brilliant opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the delivery and ongoing development of Lily's public fundraising programme, ensuring community fundraising, sports events, special events and individual giving activity work together to maximise income and supporter engagement.
• Line-manage, support and develop the two Events Managers and the Community & Individual Giving Officer, providing clear direction, regular feedback and development opportunities, and carrying out formal performance reviews
• Work closely with the Head of Fundraising to translate Lily's fundraising strategy into practical annual plans, priorities and targets for the public fundraising portfolio.
• Oversee the performance of the public fundraising programme, monitoring income, expenditure and KPIs, identifying trends and opportunities, and taking action where required.
• Support the continued development of Lily's Individual Giving, Regular Giving and Legacy fundraising programmes, helping to test new ideas, improve supporter journeys and build long-term sustainable income.
• Ensure supporters receive an excellent experience across all public fundraising activity, developing joined-up stewardship journeys that encourage long-term support.
• Work collaboratively with Marketing colleagues to develop engaging fundraising campaigns, products and communications that inspire supporters to get involved.
• Encourage innovation and continuous improvement across the team, using insight, evaluation and supporter feedback to inform future activity.
• Ensure accurate use of the CRM system (Donorfy), promoting good data management and using reporting and insight to support decision-making.
• Prepare regular reports and updates for the Head of Fundraising and COO, highlighting progress, opportunities, risks and recommendations.
• Work collaboratively across fundraising, marketing and operations to ensure public fundraising activity is well planned, well supported and aligned with organisational priorities.

This role supports our crucial non-therapeutic work, facilitating community and helping members to overcome practical barriers to healing through casework management. As Casework and Community Manager you will support one caseworker and volunteers or placement students to provide high-quality casework in housing, welfare benefits, access to health, childcare and entitlements, education and employment, and access to legal advice in immigration and asylum matters. You will also carry a small caseload of your own. In total, the casework team supports around 30 people a year.

Interim Branch Manager
RSPCA South West London
Part-time - 24 hours per week (3 days)
6-month fixed-term contract
£35,000 FTE (pro rata)
Home-based with regular local travel across South West London

Do you have a track record of leading teams, improving operations and supporting people through change?

TPP Recruitment is pleased to be partnering with RSPCA South West London an independently registered charity dedicated to improving the lives of animals across South West London. Based in Wandsworth, the branch works tirelessly to rescue and care for animals in need, promote animal welfare and inspire compassion within local communities.

We are seeking an Interim Branch Manager to provide leadership and stability during a six-month period while also helping strengthen key operational and people processes across the organisation.

Reporting to the Treasurer of the Board of Trustees, this is a varied and autonomous role that combines operational management, team leadership, stakeholder engagement and organisational improvement.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day management of the branch
• Support and develop staff and volunteers
• Manage performance and ensure effective people management practices
• Work closely with Trustees and act as a key point of contact for stakeholders
• Oversee branch operations, administration, compliance and health and safety
• Support income generation activities including retail operations, online sales, grants and fundraising initiatives
• Review and improve policies, procedures and systems
• Deliver operational improvement projects that enhance effectiveness and sustainability
• Help create greater structure, accountability and consistency across the organisation

About you
We welcome applications from candidates with experience in charity, operational or service-led environments.
You may currently be working as a:

• Charity Manager
• Operations Manager
• Service Manager
• Branch Manager
• Community Services Manager
• Retail Area Manager
• Office and Operations Manager

You'll bring:

• Strong leadership and people management experience
• A proven ability to manage and develop teams
• Experience improving operational processes and ways of working
• Confidence dealing with performance issues and implementing policies and procedures
• Strong stakeholder management skills, ideally including working with boards or trustees
• Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities
• A collaborative and hands-on approach

Why join?

This is an opportunity to make a genuine impact within a charity dedicated to animal welfare. You'll have the chance to provide stability, support a committed team and deliver improvements that will benefit the organisation long after the assignment ends.
If you're an experienced manager who enjoys combining operational leadership with people-focused improvement, we'd love to hear from you.

Closing date: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.

We are looking for a person with an understanding of working with a values-driven team of people, in the charity or not-for-profit sector.

The person appointed will have an appreciation of the aims and values of the Sustain alliance and be excited by supporting our organisation in effective ways of working, whilst freeing up senior leaders and spokespeople to undertake influencing, communication, partnership development and fundraising activities.

The Operations and People Manager will help Sustain function effectively as an organisation and be a great place to work. This is a senior, trusted role working closely with the Chief Executive, Senior Leadership Team (SLT), Senior Management Team (SMT), line managers and Trustees to strengthen our people, operational and governance systems.

The post-holder will lead practical improvements in HR, people processes, line management standards, staff development, onboarding, offboarding, organisational culture and compliance. They will combine sound judgement, strong systems thinking and a people-centred approach, helping Sustain keep processes clear, proportionate and well-managed, while supporting colleagues to focus on effective delivery.

The mission of the Sustain alliance is to catalyse systemic change in the UK’s food and farming system – securing a healthy, fair, and sustainable future for all people, nature and a stable climate. Working in collaboration with our alliance members and others, we run a range of advocacy work, projects and campaigns to achieve permanent changes in policy and practice; and to engage more people, organisations and communities in being food system change-makers.

As with all senior roles at Sustain, the person appointed to this role will work mainly at the Sustain office in London during their probationary period, and thereafter at least half of working hours at our office, whilst benefiting from the flexibility offered to all colleagues. This is part of senior role-modelling of the creativity, support, engagement and well-being benefits that in-person working cultivates between colleagues. This will be managed in coordination with other senior colleagues to enable good in-person coverage and connectivity across the week and across common holiday periods.

Role and responsibilities
•Strengthen Sustain’s people, HR, operational and governance systems so that the charity works effectively, fairly and well.
•Help Sustain be a great place to work, with clear standards, supportive line management, good staff development and a positive, inclusive culture.
•Lead on high standards and practical improvements in recruitment; induction; probation; appraisals; people and HR processes; line management skills, knowledge and tools; staff consultation; and organisational policies and practices.
•Support senior leaders, line managers and Trustees with clear advice, reliable processes, good records and proportionate and effective risk management.
•Develop and maintain systems that are simple, useful and appropriate for Sustain’s size, values, resources and legal responsibilities
 

Tasks and responsibilities:

Organisational operations and systems
•Lead on managing and developing the charity’s operational activities.
•Ensure that senior management actions that support operational effectiveness are managed and carried out in a timely way, via an accessible and accountable process.
•Lead and/or participate in a range of internal groups that support operational effectiveness.
•Support the Chief Executive, Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and other relevant staff with governance matters, including:
oReporting to the Council of Trustees on operational and people matters;
oPerformance of the ‘Company Secretary’ role on behalf of Trustees;
oTrustee recruitment, induction and management of necessary information and processes;
oAppropriate compliance with the Charity Governance Code.
•Working with the Chief Executive and Chair of the Council of Trustees, help prepare and coordinate the agendas and the running of the quarterly board meeting and occasional (at least annual) staff and Trustees strategy day, as well as the Sustain AGM, Annual Report and Trustee elections (annual), as one of the key links in communication with and between Sustain’s Council of Trustees.
•Lead on development and implementation of one or more relevant chapter of Sustain’s Organisation Development Plan (ODP).

•Support the planning and running of events, working with Sustain team leads, partners, venues and contributors.
•Work with the Head of Finance, Head of Digital and Design and external suppliers to help ensure office, IT and operational arrangements are appropriate and support effective working.
 

People, HR and employment processes
•Lead development and implementation of HR processes, practical actions and transactions, using external HR and/or legal advisors for authoritative support and advice where needed.
•Lead on full lifecycle support for Sustain staff including:
oEffective and inclusive recruitment, onboarding and offboarding – implementing Sustain’s commitment to recruitment for diversity – working with SMT, finance and admin leads;
oCreating, grading, reviewing and updating job descriptions, working with line managers and the senior leadership team;
oManaging employment contract variances; funding precarity; end-of-contract and risk-of-redundancy processes, working with senior managers, line managers, affected employees and HR/legal advisors;
oCreating or supporting a range of opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds and identities to get involved.
•Act as first point of contact for HR queries, taking ownership of policies and process, culture and employee relations; informed by HR advice, consultation and annual staff survey, including overseeing an action plan to embed areas of good practice, and to pursue improvements in an accountable way.
•Regular review of job descriptions, grades, progression and staff benefits within Sustain to ensure we remain competitive within the sector.
•Provide or commission sector benchmarking data, analysis and recommendations to inform decision-making, using a methodology agreed with Trustee oversight, on matters such financial and non-financial staff benefits.
•Maintain and improve the Staff Handbook, Recruitment Handbook, and related policies, guidance, advice and other support.

Line management standards, learning and staff development
•Lead the development and implementation of clear, practical standards for line management at Sustain, working with SLT, SMT, the Line Managers Forum and external advisers where appropriate.

•Develop and oversee implementation of key processes such as annual appraisals, annual planning and objective-setting, and a suitable performance management process.
•Help ensure objective-setting, personal development and progression conversations are undertaken routinely, and that these and performance management are handled consistently, fairly and in line with Sustain’s values and legal responsibilities.
•Support line managers to run effective 1-to-1s, probation reviews, appraisals, workload conversations, development conversations, and difficult conversations where needed.
•Ensure suitable and sufficient ongoing learning opportunities and training for the staff team and the Line Managers group, driving the charity’s approach to consistent standards, personal development and career progression.
•Maintain and improve the Line Managers Handbook and related tools, templates and guidance.
Culture, EDI, staff voice and union liaison
•Manage and develop Sustain as a great place to work, with a working culture and practices that support effective delivery, as well as health, wellbeing and personal development.
•Serve as an active member of the Diversity Group, to implement and innovate on equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism, and to gather data to measure and report on impact and progress.
•Working with the CEO, provide a route for requests and suggestions from the Health and Wellbeing Group to be properly considered and actioned as appropriate.
•Develop and support ways for staff voices to be heard and influence policies, practices and organisational culture, and for staff to be able to raise ideas and concerns confidently and see actions taken as a result.
•Support structured staff consultation and union liaison processes, helping ensure they are well-organised, transparent, well-documented and conducted in line with Sustain's policies and recognition arrangements.

Governance, compliance and risk management
•Develop and update key resources, contributing to useful reference sets such as the Staff Handbook, Recruitment Handbook and Line Managers Handbook, including overseeing production, maintenance and updating of all policies, procedures and guidance relevant to operations and people.
•Ensure Sustain complies with all employment, health and safety, data protection, charity legislation and statutory guidance including filing at Companies House and maintaining organisational records with the Charity Commission, and managing the risk register and internal policies tracker.

•Ensure adherence to health, safety, diversity and safeguarding procedures in the office, in hybrid working and for events and activities; undertaking comprehensive risk assessments for events and activities; and ensuring appropriate risk mitigation, staff communication and updates to guidance.
Other
•Potential for this role to line-manage one or more member of staff, volunteer, paid intern and/or external consultant, offering 1-to-1 support for objective-setting, work delivery, coaching and pastoral matters.
•Any other reasonable tasks and duties, agreed with the Chief Executive, consistent with the nature and level of the role.

Person specification / What we’re looking for:

Qualifications and requirements
•Significant experience operating at a senior level in a people, HR, operations or an organisation development role, including responsibility for organisational systems and staff management. [E]
•Experience of working in a charity, not-for-profit, campaigning, membership, alliance or other values-led organisation. [D]
•Demonstrable commitment to the operations and people role through a relevant qualification, training or other continuing professional development (CPD). [D]
 

Experience
•Significant experience leading organisational, people or operational improvement and advising senior decision-makers. [E]
•Developing skills and learning plans, and commissioning and/or delivering learning opportunities including training, workshops, facilitation and/or coaching. [E]
•Managing employment contracts to improve employee information and job security, especially where funding is short-term and project-based, with insights into good practice. [D]
•Delivering training and/or guidance to improve people-related functions to be delivered by line managers. [D]
•Working in a unionised organisation. [D]
Skills, abilities and attitudes
•Confidence and experience to take a leadership role on operational and people matters, working with the Chief Executive, Trustees and senior managers. [E]
•Strong problem-solving skills, and negotiation skills and the ability and confidence to provide insightful and constructive proposals and advice. [E]
•Excellent project management skills. [E]
•Aptitude for managing financial information and budgets. [D]
•Ability to communicate clearly and sensitively in writing and verbally, including on complex, confidential or contentious matters. [E]
•Proficiency with computer software and records management. [E]

Knowledge
•Knowledge and experience of end-to-end management of staff team members and their development: recruitment, induction and probation; learning experiences, skills and training; personal and career development; performance management; support for health and wellbeing; and HR processes. [E]
•Sound knowledge of UK HR and employment rules and statutory guidance, and their implementation in good practice. [E]
•Knowledge of IT, online and practical systems for improving processes and efficiency. [D]
 

Attitudes and personal qualities
•Highly organised and self-motivated, with the ability to work flexibly, independently and meet deadlines; whilst having the judgment to know when and who to consult before proceeding. [E]
•High integrity, with a professional, diplomatic, values-led, solutions-focused and collaborative approach to working with individuals and a wider team. [E]
•Commitment and ability to work at our office in East London regularly. [E]
•Demonstrable commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and racial justice. [E]
•Commitment to the mission and values of Sustain, and an interest in healthy and sustainable food and farming. [D]

Application closing date: Monday 14 September at 5pm (BST)

First stage interviews will take place (via Zoom) on: Wednesday 23 September 2026

Second stage interviews to take place in-person (London office) on: Wednesday 30 September 2026

Early applications are encouraged.

For any queries, please contact our recruitment team.

Working closely with the Trusts Managers, and the Senior Philanthropy & Trusts Manager, you will lead the teams to secure, and grow, vital funding from trust sources to support the welfare of dogs and cats across the UK and internationally. The role currently leads a team of three.

The Trusts Lead will drive forward the Trusts strategy as well as oversee KPI development and measurement, and budgets for the team. The role is also responsible for account managing a handful of partners, as well as an organisationally significant seven-figure relationship with Postcode Lottery, requiring significant work with stakeholders across Battersea.

The post will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, but in particular with the Head of Philanthropy, Partnerships & Commercial, the Senior Corporate & Commercial Partnerships Manager, the Senior Fundraising Operations Manager, the Special Events & Stewardship Manager and Marketing & Communications teams to collaborate on joint projects and ensure contacts are shared to maximise all opportunities.

This is an exciting opportunity to further develop an already successful team and make a real difference to the cause of animal welfare.

What we can offer you:

In return for your commitment to our cause and to recognise the value of our employees, Battersea offers a range of benefits to support the wellbeing of our employees. These include:

• 28 days of annual leave (plus 8 days paid public holidays) per year.
• Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work schemes.
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources.
• Generous pension contributions - up to 10% employer contribution.
• Free healthcare cash plan, where you can claim for a range of treatment including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture every year.
• Annual interest-free season ticket loans.

We are also committed to providing learning and development to our employees. During your time with us, we provide support for your professional and career development, including access to digital and in-person training programmes, leadership and management training, mentoring and much more.

Diversity and inclusion:

We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for all staff, volunteers and trustees and those hoping to join us. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process and actively seek to ensure our process is fair and equitable for all.

We understand the value of diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences to help us deliver even more for our dogs and cats, and we welcome applicants from all sections of the community.

As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best. Greyscale copies of the recruitment pack are also available on request.

More about us:

At Battersea, we aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help. We give each one lots of love, expert care and get to know their characters and quirks so we can find them a new home that’s just right for them. Join us and help us be here for every dog and cat, wherever they are, for as long as they need us.

Acceptable use of AI:

At Battersea, we value expertise. We recognise each candidate that applies to us will have a range of expertise they can offer us, so we want to hear about this in your own words. We understand the support that generative artificial intelligence (AI) software can offer but it can also lead to numerous applications presenting as generic and impersonal. This makes it difficult to gain understanding of your unique experience.

To best showcase yourself, we encourage you to write your responses without the assistance of AI. If you require the use of AI software to aid in completing your application, we ask you use the generative responses as a prompt for writing your answers and avoid copying and pasting. You must also ensure the information presented in your application accurately reflects your experience.

Closing date: 20th August 2026
All applications must be submitted before the closing date advertised. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received.

Interview date(s): First Round Interviews: week commencing 24th August 2026; Second Round Interviews: week commencing 31st August 2026

For more information about the role, please download our Recruitment pack.