Partnership development executive jobs in Belfast

Purpose of the Role:

The Senior Research, Policy and Influencing Manager will play a pivotal role in driving Cerebra’s mission to influence national and local policy and practice. You will lead on the translation of research into actionable policy recommendations, develop strategic partnerships, advocate for systemic change and influence, persuade and engage with policy makers to improve outcomes for children with neurological conditions and their families. Alongside this you will work with the Research and Information team on Cerebra’s research contracts and the development and dissemination of information.

This is a senior role requiring strategic vision, strong analytical and communication skills, and an ability to build influence across government, academia, and the third sector.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

1. Policy and Influencing  

• Identify opportunities to influence national and local policy agendas, including legislation, guidance, and funding priorities related to childhood disability and neurological conditions.
• Develop accessible and compelling policy briefings, consultation responses, reports, speeches, and presentations for a range of stakeholders, including MPs, government officials, sector partners and the public.
• Monitor policy developments across the neuro-diverse landscape and lead on timely, evidence-led responses.
• Analyse data, trends and policy developments to produce insights and recommendations.
• Translate complex ideas into clear, persuasive communications that support positive change.
• Ensure our policy positions reflect the real experiences and insights of the neuro-diverse children and families we support.
• Develop and deliver Cerebra’s policy and influencing strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and research priorities.
• Develop and deliver influencing campaigns in partnership with Communications team.
• Work closely with the Communications Team by contributing to the drafting of responses to media enquiries on our policy and influencing work and act as the media contact if required.
• Liaise with the Legal Rights Team to assess the impact of current or proposed policies in terms of their actual or potential effects on children with neurological conditions at both national and local levels, and for their input into consultation responses.

2. Engagement and Relationship Building

• Build and maintain strong strategic relationships with decision-makers across government departments, policymakers, NHS bodies, local authorities, professional associations, and sector partners.
• Represent Cerebra at meetings and events, including engaging with MPs, civil servants, policy forums, advisory groups, and cross-sector coalitions and other key influencers, or brief the CEO or Directors if attending.
• Work closely with internal teams to ensure our policy and influencing work is grounded in practice and informed by those delivering services.
• Work closely with the Communications Team to ensure consistent, impactful messaging.

3. Research and Information

• With one of our Lead Research Officers leading, you will oversee the tendering process and delivery of our research contracts.
• Working with our Information Development Officer to ensure that we maintain our PIF Tick accreditation for our information resources.
• Carry out high-quality research and analysis.
• Use findings from Cerebra-funded and external research to produce policy briefs, consultation responses, and evidence-based recommendations.
• Alongside our Lead Research Officers carry out horizon scanning to identify emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in child health, neurodiversity, and public service delivery.

4. Budgeting, monitoring and forecasting

• Working with the team and Director to set income and expenditure budgets for Corporate, Philanthropy, Legacy and Trust & Foundations to assist with any funding applications.
• Monitoring and reporting on income and expenditure and KPIs throughout the year.
• Providing quarterly income and expenditure re-forecasts.
• Ensuring all relevant information is recorded in line with charity, fundraising and data legislation and best practice.

5. Line Management

• Line management responsibilities for a small team, currently comprising of 3 staff.
• Be responsible for the day-to-day management of the team.
• Complete regular supervision and team meetings.
• Provide effective performance management to the team.
• Promote a positive and inclusive team culture aligned with Cerebra’s values.

6. General

• Monitor and evaluate the impact the areas of work that leading on.
• Support collaboration across the different Cerebra teams.
• Experience using Client Relationship Management (CRM) systems or similar digital tools for recording and tracking work.
• Uphold Cerebra’s Data Protection Policy and all relevant confidentiality and safeguarding policies.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties in line with the needs of the team and organisation.

Please see attached job description for person specification.

The governance and policy manager is a senior strategic and operational role responsible for leading, coordinating, and strengthening all governance-related functions across World Physiotherapy. Reporting directly to the CEO, the role ensures the organisation consistently meets the highest standards of governance, compliance, transparency, and accountability, in line with its global mission and constitutional framework.

The postholder serves as a key advisor to the CEO, board, and leadership structures, ensuring governance systems are robust, efficient, and appropriate for an international membership organisation. The role works closely with member organisations (MOs), regions, and speciality groups to enhance governance practices, ensure policy alignment, and support coherent decision-making across the global network.

The role also contributes to organisational direction by actively participating in the development and implementation of the World Physiotherapy strategic plan and supporting alignment with regional and other strategic plans.

1. Governance leadership and oversight

• Lead, coordinate, and oversee all governance functions and activities across World Physiotherapy.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with the constitution, bylaws, policies, and applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
• Regularly review and update governance frameworks, systems, and processes to align with international best practices.
• Provide authoritative advice and interpretation on governance matters to the CEO, board, and leadership structures.
• Develop and implement governance improvement initiatives to enhance organisational effectiveness and accountability.
• Work collaboratively with the World Physiotherapy development and membership divisions to ensure organisational cohesion and effective delivery of the global mission.

2. Board and executive support

• Support and coordinate the development of high-quality board papers, briefings, and decision-support materials.
• Support the full lifecycle of board meetings, including agenda setting, documentation, logistics, and action tracking.
• Ensure timely circulation of clear, accurate, and structured information to support informed decision-making.
• Maintain and manage official governance records, including minutes, resolutions, and statutory documentation.
• Monitor follow-up actions and ensure implementation of board decisions.

3. General meeting (GM) management

• Plan, coordinate, and deliver all World Physiotherapy global and regional general meetings in accordance with constitutional requirements.
• Develop and manage timelines for GM preparation, including submission, review, and distribution of papers.
• Oversee the drafting and quality assurance of reports, motions, and official documentation.
• Ensure accurate recording of proceedings, decisions, and outcomes.
• Verify compliance with all procedural and constitutional requirements for general meetings.

4. Regional elections coordination

• Plan and oversee regional election processes, ensuring alignment with organisational rules, timelines, and standards.
• Develop and implement clear election procedures and guidance for regions in line with the constitution.
• Ensure elections are conducted transparently, fairly, and consistently across all regions.
• Provide advisory support to regional executive committees on governance and election matters.
• Maintain comprehensive records of election processes, results, and compliance.

5. Policy development and management

• Lead the drafting, review, and implementation of governance and organisational policies.
• Ensure policies are consistent, up to date, and aligned with strategic priorities and international standards.
• Provide expert policy advice and interpretation to the CEO, board, MOs, regions, and speciality groups.
• Establish and maintain systems to monitor policy implementation, compliance, and effectiveness. 

6. Strategic planning and alignment

• Contribute to the development, implementation, and monitoring of the World Physiotherapy strategic plan.
• Support alignment between global strategy and regional and other relevant strategic plans.
• Provide governance input into strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with constitutional and policy frameworks.
• Monitor and report on governance-related strategic objectives and outcomes.

7. Support to member organisations, regions, and specialty groups

• Provide expert governance and policy advice to MOs, regions, and speciality groups.
• Develop practical tools, templates, and guidance to strengthen governance capacity across the network.
• Facilitate knowledge sharing and promote best practices in governance globally.
• Respond to governance queries and provide timely, solution-oriented support.

8. Stakeholder engagement and communication

• Act as a central liaison on governance matters between the CEO, board, committees, and membership.
• Ensure consistent and transparent communication of governance processes, decisions, and requirements.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Work closely with the communications and marketing team for the delivery of all key communications.

9. Continuous improvement and risk management

• Identify governance risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Lead initiatives to enhance governance maturity and organisational performance.
• Monitor global trends in governance and advise on relevant improvements.
• Support organisational risk management processes related to governance and compliance.

Person specification

Education and qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in law, public administration, governance, business administration, international relations, or a related field.
• Postgraduate qualification (eg master’s degree) in governance, public policy, law, MBA, or related discipline (desirable).
• Professional certification in governance, compliance, or company secretariat (eg Chartered Governance Institute or equivalent) is an advantage.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development in governance or non-profit management.

Essential experience and skills

• Extensive experience in governance, policy, or organisational management, preferably in an international or membership-based organisation.
• Strong knowledge of non-profit governance frameworks and best practices.
• Proven experience supporting boards and senior leadership.
• Experience managing complex governance processes (eg elections, general meetings).
• Excellent organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written communication skills with the ability to produce high quality formal documentation.
• Ability to work effectively across diverse cultural and geographic contexts.

Desirable

• Experience working with global professional associations or health related organisations.
• Familiarity with constitutional frameworks and regulatory environments in international organisations.
• Experience engaging with stakeholders across multiple regions.

Personal attributes

• Highly organised, proactive, and detail oriented.
• Strong integrity and commitment to transparency and accountability.
• Collaborative, diplomatic, and skilled in stakeholder management.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strategic thinker with a practical, solution oriented mindset.

 Impact of the role

This role is critical to ensuring World Physiotherapy operates with excellence in governance and policy. The governance and policy manager supports effective decision-making at the highest level, strengthens organisational credibility, and contributes to a cohesive, well-governed global network aligned with its strategic objectives.

Only candidates invited for interview will be contacted.

About Us
The National Landscapes Association represents and supports the UK’s National Landscapes (Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty) The Association is a charity and non-profit membership organisation. The team advocates, communicates and fosters collaborative action which supports the UK’s network of National Landscapes to be as effective as possible. We champion the interests of National Landscapes with governments and coordinate the delivery of national projects.

About the Role
As Head of Partnerships and Fundraising, you will lead the development and delivery of an ambitious income generation and partnership strategy for the National Landscapes Association. This is a pivotal senior role, focused on securing and growing diverse funding streams, including corporate partnerships, philanthropy, grants and strategic collaborations to support the long-term resilience of the organisation and the wider National Landscapes network.

You will drive new business, negotiate high-value partnerships and oversee a strong pipeline of opportunities, while leading and supporting a high-performing Development Team. Working closely with the Chief Executive, Board and key partners, you will operate at a strategic level, shaping propositions, building influential relationships and positioning National Landscapes as a compelling investment opportunity within the environmental and nature-based solutions space.

Key Responsibilities

• Income generation & strategy: Lead the development and delivery of an ambitious income diversification strategy, identifying and securing funding from corporate partnerships, philanthropy, grants and strategic collaborations.
• New business development: Drive the full partnership lifecycle from prospect identification and relationship building through to proposal development, negotiation and deal closure for high-value opportunities.
• Partnership development & stewardship: Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships with funders and partners, ensuring high-quality account management and delivery against agreed outcomes.
• Team leadership & performance: Lead and support the Development Team, setting clear objectives, fostering a positive team culture, and ensuring delivery against income targets and pipeline goals.
• Strategic positioning & influence: Work with the Chief Executive and Board to shape compelling partnership propositions, represent the organisation externally, and position National Landscapes as a leading partner for investment in nature.
• Governance, reporting & insight: Ensure robust pipeline management, forecasting and reporting, while maintaining oversight of legal, financial and reputational considerations across partnerships.

See the role description for more information.

Why Join Us?
At the National Landscapes Association, you’ll be part of a passionate and forward-thinking team making a meaningful impact. You’ll gain exposure to a wide range of high-profile policy issues, work alongside experts across the UK, and help shape the future of our most valued landscapes.

The Partnerships and Philanthropy Manager will play a key role in driving income growth through philanthropy and strategic partnerships across Northern Ireland. Reporting to the Northern Ireland Director, with a dotted line to the UK Head of Philanthropy and Partnerships, this role will contribute to the delivery of an ambitious growth strategy. The post-holder will build and steward relationships with major donors, corporate partners, and philanthropic organisations to ensure alignment with national and regional objectives, and will lead the development of high-quality fundraising, cultivation and stewardship events that deepen engagement, grow income and strengthen long-term supporter relationships. They will also lead and support their direct report, ensuring a collaborative, high-performing fundraising team.

About You: 

ESSENTIAL

• Proven experience securing high-value philanthropic gifts from trusts, foundations, major donors, and corporate partners.
• Strong relationship management, donor stewardship, and negotiation skills.
• Strategic and results-oriented approach, with a track record of meeting and exceeding fundraising targets.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Experience in team management and/or a clear, evidenced track record of driving or contributing to the success of high-performing teams.
• Strong analytical and reporting capabilities.
• Full driving license and access to a car

DESIRABLE

• Knowledge of the philanthropic and corporate funding landscape in Northern Ireland.
• Experience working in the non-profit or charity sector.
• Familiarity with CRM and donor management systems.

To view the full job description, please click on the link below to download the document.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion: 

Concern Worldwide encourages all qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, ethnicity and origin, disability, political beliefs, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status to apply to become a part of the organisation. Concern is against all forms of discrimination and unequal power relations, and is committed to promoting equality. 

About us: 

We are an international humanitarian organisation that strives for a world free from poverty, fear and oppression. We deliver life-saving and life-changing interventions to the world's poorest and most vulnerable people. From rapid emergency response to innovative development programming, we go to the hardest to reach places to make sure that no-one is left behind. With almost 4,500 staff of more than 50 nationalities, Concern operates in 24 of the world’s poorest countries, helping people to achieve major and long-lasting improvements in their lives. 

Benefits
•    25 days’ annual leave, pro-rated for part-time employees.
•    Office closure between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
•    Flexible hours and hybrid working
•    Annual leave purchase scheme
•    Enhanced parental leave pay
•    Stakeholder pension
•    Season ticket loan
•    Cycle scheme
•    Life assurance
•    Access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Details of our benefits could be found on our website.

Job Location: Belfast (Hybrid)

Concern UK operates a flexible hybrid working policy, which can be a mix of home and office working. However, due to the nature of this role, the post‑holder may be required to attend the Belfast office more frequently and travel to meet corporate partners, donors, and attend networking or external events.

Our Belfast office is located in an historic building in a lively area, close to the Ulster University Belfast campus, cafés, restaurants, shops, and excellent transport links. The building is full of character, blending historic charm with modern, flexible workspaces designed for collaboration and creativity.

Candidates must be legally entitled to work in the UK at the time of application.

Belfast: £46,140 to £51,267, based on full time hours (35 hours per week)

New employees will normally start at the minimum of the pay band, with scope for progression over time.

The successful post holder will be required to complete a criminal records self-declaration form and a Basic AccessNI check. 

Having a criminal record will not necessarily debar you from working with Concern Worldwide. This will depend on the nature of the position, together with the circumstances and background of your offences. 

Evolve Counselling is a long‑established Cambridgeshire charity providing professional, affordable mental‑health support to individuals, organisations and communities. Each year, Evolve delivers thousands of counselling sessions through a team of trained, accredited counsellors working across the East of England region.

Our mission is to deliver counselling services to adults at the lowest possible cost, wherever possible seeking to subsidise sessions for those on low incomes. We do this through a mixed model of commissioned services, private counselling, and grant‑supported provision. By working to grow and foster a membership body of professional counsellors, Evolve strives to improve access to quality counselling and psychotherapy for all, and to create a positive working environment for those in the profession.

The CEO role provides strategic and operational leadership to drive Evolve’s growth, sustainability and impact. The position delivers effective organisational management, high‑quality service delivery, robust governance, regulatory compliance, and a positive staff culture.  Working in conjunction with the board, this is an exciting opportunity to shape the organisation’s future, ensuring that Evolve remains a trusted, quality and sustainable source of mental health support for years to come. 

Following several years of successful internal stabilisation—strengthening governance, staffing, and operational systems—the charity is ready to enter a critical period of transformation and growth. Our current CEO plans to retire in September 2026, having laid strong foundations for what must come next.

Our new CEO will lead Evolve into this next phase—strengthening partnerships, expanding referral pathways, stabilising revenue streams, and championing accessible counselling across our communities.

About Us

The National Landscapes Association represents and supports the UK’s National Landscapes (Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty) – places where we want nature and people to flourish together. These living, protected landscapes are vital to the UK’s nature recovery, climate resilience, sustainable farming and wellbeing.

We work collaboratively and inclusively to ensure these treasured places are protected, restored, and accessible to all. Our policy work is central to this mission – and we’re looking for a proficient and motivated individual to help shape and drive it forward.

About the Role

As a Nature-based Solutions Officer you will support the delivery of the National Landscapes Association’s Nature-based Solutions programme, working closely with the Head of Nature-based Solutions to develop projects, partnerships and investment opportunities across the National Landscapes network.

You will help build a strong pipeline of investable nature-based solutions projects, support National Landscapes teams to design, develop and deliver high-quality initiatives aligned to national policy and market opportunities.

You will play a key role in translating strategic ambition into practical delivery, providing coordination, technical support and stakeholder engagement across a range of projects and programmes.

About you

We are looking for someone who is;

• A dynamic and enthusiastic team player, someone who is up for a creative challenge and will work well with others to find innovative solutions.
• An active listener, able to analyse and reflect the views and needs of others without letting your own opinions or ego get in the way.
• Dedicated to your own self learning and improvement, both for the success of the team and your own career. You maximise opportunities offered to you, and you will be excited to share resources that you find useful, and help others to access these as well.
• Comfortable with the uncertain, and excited by a space that is always changing and evolving.
• Open, honest, and encouraging, keen to work as part of a team that champions emotional awareness, kindness, and compassion.

This role is varied, exciting, and rewarding. You will have the opportunity to attend industry events, workshops, and webinars regularly. It is important that you are willing and able to maximise these opportunities and drive your own self-development as well as grow and evolve with the team.

Key Responsibilities

• Project and programme delivery; develop and deliver projects, coordinate a programme of activities, develop project proposals, funding applications and delivery plans and contribute to monitoring and evaluation of the above.
• Pipeline development and technical support; identify and develop investable projects, develop supporting resources, provide practical project support to National Landscapes teams, and stay informed on emerging policy, market mechanisms and best practice.
• Stakeholder engagement and partnerships; engage with stakeholders, building on relationships, contribute to workshops events and forums, and, support the development of partnership materials and communications.
• Data, evidence and reporting; support the collection and analysis of data, develop reporting outputs, maintain oversight of project pipelines, tracking progress and identifying risks or opportunities.
• Team support and collaboration; Contribute to a collaborative and supportive team culture.

See the role description for more information.

Why Join Us?
At the National Landscapes Association, you’ll be part of a passionate and forward-thinking team making a meaningful impact. You’ll gain exposure to a wide range of high-profile policy issues, work alongside experts across the UK, and help shape the future of our most valued landscapes.

Are you an outstanding leader, fundraiser and a natural networker? Do you want to help local communities to take practical action to make a difference to UK seas and shores? 

Sea-Changers is looking for a motivated leader to make a step change at a key point in the organisation’s journey. Sea-Changers’ vision is a future where the UK’s seas and shores are clean and healthy and marine species and habitats are protected. Our grants seek to support communities of Sea-Changers – people who care about the seas and want to take practical action to make a difference. Through our grants we enable diverse, grassroots and community-led marine conservation across the UK.

Doubling our income to over £300,000 in 2025 has catalysed Sea-Changers to move from a volunteer-led charity to a sustainable organisation with a dedicated staff team. To enable this, we are seeking to appoint our first Executive Director. This new role will work alongside the Co-Founders and our Board of Trustees and lead the transition from a volunteer-led operation to a staff-led organisation.

As a driven individual, you will build on our success — strengthen partnerships, expand our impact, and help more communities to protect the ocean. Supported by a strong group of volunteers and an impressive Board, the Executive Director will be comfortable working at both a strategic and operation level, and ‘hands on’. By the end of 2027 it is our expectation you will take full responsibility for the strategic leadership and overall operational delivery of Sea-Changers.

This is an extraordinary opportunity for the right individual. It is a chance to build on our success to date, to forge new partnerships with our funders, to motivate and inspire our inspiring volunteer team and to engage with our wide community of applicants. Through Sea-Changers, the Executive Director has the rare chance to deliver a lasting legacy for UK marine conservation.

Strategic leadership, increasing organisational income and managing a motivated team of volunteers are essential aspects to the role. A passion for the marine environment is key, as is a working understanding of UK marine policy. We want someone who passionately advocates for Sea-Changers, who can communicate confidently and credibly at all levels. You will champion our oceans and galvanise others. 

Together for Short Lives is looking for a driven and creative Business Development Manager to develop and secure high‑value corporate partnerships that will help transform the lives of seriously ill children and their families. You’ll lead our business development strategy, build a strong pipeline of opportunities, and develop lasting relationships with prospective and existing supporters.

If you’re collaborative, tenacious and passionate about making a real impact in children’s palliative care, we’d love to hear from you.

Full‑time 1 year FTC | Hybrid (UK‑wide with travel to our Bristol Office) | £42,000

Purpose of role

The Business Development Manager will lead our efforts to secure high-profile, high-value partnerships with corporate organisations  that will generate vital income for children's palliative care. Securing new partnerships and growing our income requires exceptional collaboration skills; a driven, tenacious and resourceful nature; innovation and creativity; and a passionate determination to make a difference to the lives of children and families across the UK.

The main objectives are as follows:

1. Secure new corporate partnerships raising funds to support Together for Short Lives’ direct work, and our National Fundraising Scheme (raising funds on behalf of the UK’s children’s hospices).
2. Develop and deliver a business development strategy, including  prospect research, managing  a robust pipeline of opportunities, and developing a diverse range of business development products. 
3. Manage and develop relationships with a portfolio of individual contacts and organisations, including prospective and existing supporters.

CEO

• Salary for FTE: £62,000 - £75,000 dependant on experience
• 38 hours a week over 5 days (flexibility for right candidate)
• Home-based with travel for events and meetings

Reporting into the Board of Trustees, we are seeking an inspirational CEO for the PDA Society, who can lead with humility and curiosity, empowering and supporting our staff along the journey. They will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the charity and its staff and volunteers, and will oversee the development of our training products, research and support services, whilst ensuring sustainable growth in impact and income.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a trusted enterprise within the PDA community with a strong mission and a committed, values driven team. The successful candidate will be passionate about improving the lives of PDAers and their families. You will be energetic, creative and bring new ideas for enhancing the charity’s reputation, through nurturing existing relationships and developing new ones to achieve the charities goals. Our ideal candidate will have lived experience of autism, PDA or other neurodivergence although this is not essential.

Closing date for applications: Midnight on 22nd April 2026

Interviews with Trustees:  April / May 2026

We are looking for a dynamic, values-led, strategic leader to drive our mission for migration justice and social work solidarity. The role entails oversight of the operations and strategy of the organisation, responsibility for financial management and fundraising, maintaining the health of the organisation and embedding anti-racist and anti-opressive values into every aspect of the organisation. 

Department: COO’s Office
Contract type: Permanent
Salary: Up to £115,000 per annum
Location: Home Based (UK wide travel as required)
Reports To: Chief Executive and Council Chair

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to help lead the organisation through the next phase of its development. Reporting to the Chief Executive and Council Chair, Phil Garrigan, and working closely with the Board of Trustees, the COO will play a critical role in driving organisational transformation and delivery. This will ensure NFCC is well positioned to achieve its ambitious new three-year strategy and delivery plan, including preparations for the proposed College of Fire and Rescue in 2029.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a professional, responsive and agile organisation that is focused on making a real difference to public safety.

NFCC is a charity and membership organisation dedicated to making communities safer by providing national leadership, coordination and professional expertise across UK fire and rescue services. Working at NFCC offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to public safety, national resilience and the continuous improvement of an essential public service.

Operating at the intersection of operational practice, policy, assurance and system leadership, NFCC supports fire and rescue services to collaborate effectively, respond to complex and emerging risks, and maintain the highest professional standards. We work closely with government, regulators, emergency service partners and sector stakeholders to ensure that the collective voice of fire and rescue leaders is influential, credible and evidence-led.

As a values-driven organisation and registered charity, NFCC is committed to ethical leadership, transparency and public benefit. We foster a culture that is inclusive, collaborative and rooted in service to communities. Our people are trusted professionals, empowered to lead, innovate and deliver meaningful impact, supported by robust governance, assurance and accountability frameworks.

NFCC is a modern, agile organisation with a fully remote workforce. This enables us to attract and retain talented individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, while supporting flexible, inclusive and high-performing ways of working. We place strong emphasis on wellbeing, professional development and continuous learning, recognising that our effectiveness depends on the capability, integrity and commitment of our people.

Joining NFCC means working on issues of national significance, influencing the future of fire and rescue services, and helping to strengthen the resilience and safety of the communities we serve. If you are motivated by public service and professional excellence, have a strong focus on delivery and impact, and bring experience in leading business transformation and organisational change, this role offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to operate at the highest level of leadership.

The Selection Process

How to apply:

If you are interested in this role and think you have the skills and experience we need, please do look at the Job description on the NFCC website.

Candidates are invited to submit their CV and a covering letter setting out how they can meet the requirements set out in the job description. Please email this to the Recruitment mailbox (details found on the NFCC Website) by 23rd April 2026.

Tests for shortlisted candidates are likely to be Week commencing 4th May 2026

Interviews taking place on the 18th & 19th May 2026

NFCC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults and will require a DBS check to be completed prior to commencing in post.

NFCC is committed to being an inclusive employer. We comply with the Equality Act 2010, and we believe that everyone deserves to work in safe environments that are free from bullying, harassment and discrimination, abuse, and harm, where they feel supported, welcome, and able to thrive.

NFCC acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard, protect and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice, all staff are expected to share this commitment.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy levels amongst people in the criminal justice system?

We’ve made substantial progress in recent years, with improvements and expansions to our delivery model and significant growth in our staff team. In Spring 2026, we will launch our refreshed organisational strategy, which will shape our work over the next three years and beyond. To support this growth, we are recruiting for a full time National Director of Operations to lead our delivery across England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and emerging community settings, with an ambition to reach Scotland. This is an exciting opportunity to play a central role in scaling our impact and strengthening our presence across the criminal justice system and beyond.

As National Director of Operations, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for our learning programmes in prisons and community settings. You will ensure high‑quality, consistent and accessible delivery, overseeing a team of six Regional Managers and a wider workforce of around 65 staff, volunteers and over 2,000 peer mentors trained each year.

Working closely with senior colleagues, partner organisations and national bodies such as HMPPS, you will drive programme excellence, innovation and partnership working. You will also play a key role in new business development, operational strategy, contractual delivery and ensuring we can reliably demonstrate the impact of our work.

The role requires an experienced operational leader with a deep commitment to improving outcomes for people facing disadvantage. You will bring:

• Senior leadership experience in a complex, multi‑site environment.
• A track record of delivering large-scale programmes and leading distributed teams.
• Strong strategic thinking, problem‑solving and relationship‑building skills.
• Experience working with statutory bodies or large public-sector partners (e.g. HMPPS).
• Excellent judgement, communication skills and the ability to influence at all levels.
• Understanding of the criminal justice system, safeguarding, or alternative education environments (desirable).
• A collaborative, inclusive leadership style aligned with Shannon Trust’s values.

We want to hear from applicants who are as committed to the cause as we are.

This is a home-based role but will require travel around the UK including overnight stays. This role is 5 days per week (35 hours) with working days/hours to be mutually agreed in line with business needs.

Employee benefits include a company contribution to pension scheme of up to 5%, 30 days holiday plus bank holidays, life insurance, paid volunteering days, discounts via Reward Gateway and an Employee Assistance Programme. The biggest benefit though is our culture – our people really want to work for the organisation.

We welcome job applications from people with lived experience of the criminal justice system and do not routinely ask for details of any criminal convictions. This role does require prison security clearance, so we will need to ask for details of any relevant criminal convictions before an offer of employment is finalised.

Interviews, which will be held online, are planned for the w/c 18th May.

Role Overview

This is an exciting opportunity to shape Shine’s strategic direction while managing the operational delivery of our services for children, young people, and families aged 0–25. Building on the success of our Little Stars/Ser Bach programme for members aged 0–12 and the development and extension of the FIRE (Friendship, Independence, Resilience, Empowerment) programme for those aged 13–25, you will play a key role in shaping the future of our support for children, young people and their families.

Working across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you will lead the delivery of an established, evidence-based programme that improves health, social, and emotional outcomes for those living with spina bifida, hydrocephalus, and associated conditions.

You’ll lead a passionate team and work closely with Shine’s Adult Services Team (25+), Health Team, Wales and Northern Ireland Managers and wider colleagues across the organisation to ensure work is coordinated, complementary, and beneficial to members. At the same time, you’ll forge strong partnerships with NHS professionals, statutory services, and voluntary organisations—driving collaboration that will support our vision of providing consistent, high-quality support for children, young people and families nationwide.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Team Management
• Programme Development & Delivery
• Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting
• Member Support & Engagement

Please see the full Job Description & Person Specification below and on our website. 

Benefits to working at Shine:

• Competitive salary: Review due April 2027
• Regular working hours, and no shift work (some very occasional weekends or evenings)  
• 3% pension contribution
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with additional discretionary leave between Christmas and New Year
• Additional annual leave awarded for ‘long service’
• Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave
• Broadband allowance for home-based roles
• Life insurance after 12 months’ employment  
• Access to our Employee Support Programme and Mental Health First Aiders 
• Support to learn and develop 

How to apply 

Shine is a Disability Confident employer and will offer guaranteed interviews if a disabled applicant meets the minimum criteria for the job. 

If you would like to discuss the role with our Deputy CEO, Gill Valentine, please contact Shine to arrange a convenient time for a call. 

To apply please submit your CV and supporting statement, which should outline your interest and explain how you meet the role criteria. 

We understand that you may wish to use AI tools to help you with some aspects of your application but we do expect tailored applications which are personalised to your experiences and not generic applications which are completely AI generated. We encourage candidates to be transparent about AI usage in their applications. 

*Please note applications without a supporting statement will not be accepted* 

Closing date: Thursday 16th April 2026 at 11pm 

Interviews:  Monday 27th April 2026  

Please note: we reserve the right to interview suitable candidates before the closing date, therefore we encourage applications as soon as possible. 

As Director of External Affairs across the Bild Group of four small charities (with collective turnover of approx. £3m/yr), you will have a deep commitment to human rights and improving people’s lives.

You will provide strategic direction and leadership to the External Relations function across all four charities in the group, taking overall responsibility for and providing thought-leadership on our strategic approach to policy, influencing, public affairs, stakeholder engagement. 

You will play a lead role in planning, developing, and implementing the communication and external relations and wider engagement strategic plan to grow awareness and profile of Bild, Respond, Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and ACT.

By sharing the impact of our work and programmes in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities, autism and /or mental health conditions, you will support Bild in becoming the sector leading provider of organisational and workforce development (and RRN in becoming the leading charity in reducing restrictive practices globally – and Respond as leaders in trauma informed therapy).

You will champion Bild and RRN’s brand, vision, mission and values acting as an ambassador for the organisation both internally and externally to partners, stakeholders and media.

Key Responsibilities and Duties: 

Strategic Leadership:  

• Develop and implement an integrated communications and external relations strategy across the four charities in the group to raise our profile and to influence change which positively impacts on our beneficiaries, aligning media, campaigning, and public affairs with the charity’s mission and strategic priorities 

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team including Membership and Events Officer, Resources Coordinator and comms team as required 

Comms & Marketing:

• Plan, develop and implement strategic communications and marketing plans to maximise awareness of the Bild Group of charities across the broad spectrum of communications disciplines including media relations, stakeholder management, influencer engagement, ethical (impact focused) marketing, social and new media and the production of new materials and resources 

• Write, develop and produce materials such as infographics, press releases, briefing documents, media statements and online information suitable for stakeholders, including people with lived experience

• Ensure effective marketing across all four charities focusing on impact and including ensuring we attend a range of external events and that all four websites are best practice. 

Influencing & Public Affairs:  

• Working with the CEO, you will drive policy change by developing strategies to influence key decision makers through building relationships with parliamentarians, government departments, and sector stakeholders to ensure the charity's policy agenda is impactful 

• Lead proactive and reactive media engagement, calls and requests for information in order to capitalise on suitable opportunities for maximising the reach and impact of all four charities

• Build our credibility as a thought leader in the sector 

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:  

• Build and sustain strategic alliances with senior civil servants, civil society groups, and community partners to increase the organization's influence and impact 

• Develop effective stakeholder relationship management processes that ensure partnerships of all levels are provided with a rich, immersive engagement experience with the organisation and the work that we do 

• Identify, liaise with and ensure positive relationships with key stakeholders – internal and external including media, government departments, partners, charities, providers, customers, other relevant parties to secure maximum impact for all four charities and their beneficiaries

Reputation, Brand Management & Marketing:  

• Champion the Bild group brands, promoting the mission, values and impact of the organisation and ensuring consistent, engaging narratives and high-quality storytelling across all external channels

• Shaping the charity's profile and protecting its reputation through media relations, digital engagement, and consistent key messaging and building our credibility as thought leaders in sector. 

Membership, Events & Communities:  

• By ensuring appropriate, effective and engaging communications to all relevant audiences and stakeholders, your role will support the growth and development of our membership, Communities of Practice and the event programme (including webinars and conferences).

• Effectively plan, manage and lead a range of events for the Bild group of charities and associated marketing and communications

• Develop framework for Communities of Practice and strategy for engagement and growth 

• Supporting Bild and RRN spokespeople with PR and media outreach

• Keep abreast of communications and engagement activity within the sector and demonstrate an awareness of the impact these may have on existing and future communications activity

General Responsibilities 

• Contribute to evaluation and assessment of results against KPIs and tracking activity

• Allocate, manage and evaluate budget spend

• Identify resource requirements for activity across Bild group

• Develop and maintain systems, databases and procedures to support Bild group communication activities

• Plan, monitor, appraise and report progress of activity regularly with an innate understanding of how this supports activity across the Bild group

• Plan, manage and oversee budgetary spend related to outsourcing specialist activities such as video editing and design

• Ensure communications and marketing work complies with data protection and other legal, professional and agency requirements, standards and policies

• Support the senior leadership team on any activity as required. 

Personal Development  

• Be part of a culture of quality in all areas of communications, PR and marketing

• Participate and contribute to individual performance appraisal and supervision sessions

• Keep abreast of relevant initiatives and developments within the adult health and social care, education & disability sector and the wider communications / engagement profession

• Undertake relevant training, as necessary including accessing new systems and software as required to support the role.

Organisational Responsibilities: 

• Access and work within Bild’s policies and procedures.  

• Attend internal cycle of team meetings relevant to this role.  

• Engage with line management, supervision (where appropriate) and appraisal process.  

• Comply with data protection regulations, ensuring that information on clients, employees, volunteers and other stakeholders remains confidential.  

• Take responsibility for personal learning and development with support from line manager.  

• Work in a manner that facilitates equal opportunities and inclusion for all.  

• Remain professional and respectful at all times, promoting positive relations with all those we encounter in our work.  

• Maintain health and safety and risk awareness for self and others across the organisation.  

• Undertake any other duties that Bild may require within the remit of this role.  

This job description does not form part of the contract of employment. It is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review with the postholder at their annual appraisal.  

Person Specification  

Job Title 

Director of External Relations 

• Exceptional copy writing and verbal communication skills

• Good presenting, negotiating and influencing skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build mutually beneficial relationships

• The ability to work effectively within a small team

• Ability to work under pressure, and plan, manage, and adapt own workload

• A flexible, proactive and problem-solving approach to work

• A motivated attitude and ability to work on own initiative 

• A commitment to human rights and modelling accessibility and inclusion throughout activity

• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as demanded by the post

• Fit to undertake the duties of the post. 

Experience/Skills/Competencies 

Essential 

• Significant experience working in communications, policy and PR with demonstrable success

• PR and media management experience, including both online and traditional PR

• Experience of managing and implementing social media plans, including post development, scheduling, evaluation and monitoring feedback

• Experience of overseeing the design and production of print and electronic publications, including website management and development

• Experience of managing CRM systems and ensuring effective data capture and utilising data to inform decision making

• Ability to analyse data and shape results into reports that inform decision making

• Ability to build effective relationships and networks and establish credibility for Bild, RRN, Respond and Bild ACT 

• Ability to work collaboratively and develop positive relationships with colleagues, members and wider stakeholders

• Demonstrated digital comms / social media skills and understanding of emerging digital marketing tools and platforms

• Ability to use a variety of IT packages/databases including CRM systems.

• Experience managing budgets and associated reporting

• Ability to work remotely and regularly travel to in person events

• Time management skills and ability to prioritise workload under pressure as part of a small but vibrant team

• Strong awareness and interest in news/current affairs/politics and the broader third sector, social care and education sector. 

Desirable 

• Experience working in the not-for-profit sector, preferably in another disability and/or membership charity

• Strong understanding of education, health, social care, disability and not for profit environment

• Strong media contacts within relevant trade sector publications

• Ability to use externally managed media databases (such as Agility etc.)

• Experience with conferences, webinars and hybrid events. 

• Experience supporting and manging a remote team

Education and Qualifications: 

Other Requirements: 

• Commitment to anti-discriminatory practice and equal opportunities and able to apply awareness of diversity issues to all areas of work.  

• Regular travel to attend meetings and events. 

• Occasional evening meetings.  

Legal requirements: 

• Enhanced DBS check.