Policy development jobs

Head of Communications & Public Affairs 

Salary: Up to £62k depending on experience
Location: Remote, with regular planned travel nationwide, particularly to London and the South, plus attendance at monthly and quarterly team meetings
Hours: Full Time, 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

We're looking for an exceptional communications leader to join Help for Heroes as our Head of Communications & Public Affairs. This is a rare opportunity to shape how one of the UK's most recognised charities engages with the media, policymakers, supporters and the wider public, ensuring the voices of veterans and their families are heard where it matters most.

Leading our integrated communications, public affairs, policy and PR activity, you'll develop influential campaigns that continue to strengthen our reputation, support fundraising and drive meaningful change for the Armed Forces community. Working closely with senior leaders across the charity, you'll act as a trusted adviser, bringing insight into the political, media and stakeholder landscape while helping to navigate the opportunities and risks that affect our mission.

This is a high-profile leadership role for someone who combines strategic thinking with outstanding delivery, thrives on building influential relationships and wants to use their expertise to create lasting impact for those who have served our country.

Please see below for more information on what just might be your future role.

About the Role

As Head of Communications & Public Affairs, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping how the charity is seen, heard and understood by the public, media, policymakers and supporters. Ensuring the experiences of veterans and their families remain at the heart of national conversations and decision-making.

• Developing and delivering an integrated communications, public affairs and policy strategy that advances the charity's mission and influence.
• Leading high-profile campaigns that raise awareness, support fundraising objectives and drive systemic change for the Armed Forces community.
• Building influential relationships with media, government, political stakeholders, partner organisations and sector leaders.
• Acting as a trusted adviser to senior leaders, providing strategic counsel on reputation, stakeholder engagement, public policy and emerging issues
• Leading the charity's press office, crisis communications activity, ambassador programme and external reputation management
• Developing, inspiring and coaching a high-performing team, fostering innovation, collaboration and measurable impact.

About You

Are you a strategic communications leader who knows how to turn insight into action and ambition into results?

Do you have a strong track record of leading integrated communications, public affairs, policy or campaigning activity that has built reputation, influenced decision-makers and delivered measurable impact?

Can you confidently navigate complex issues, build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders and provide clear, credible counsel?

Are you equally comfortable shaping long-term strategy, responding to fast-moving external events and spotting opportunities to raise the profile and influence of an organisation?

If you're passionate about telling powerful stories, understand the UK media and political landscape, and enjoy leading talented teams to achieve ambitious goals, we'd love to hear from you.

You'll bring significant senior-level experience across communications, public affairs or policy, alongside expertise in media relations, stakeholder engagement and reputation management.

Most importantly, you'll be motivated by the opportunity to use your skills, networks and leadership to improve outcomes for veterans and their families.

About the Team

You’ll join our ambitious Marketing, Communications and Public Affairs directorate, a team dedicated to amplifying the voices of veterans and their families and ensuring their experiences influence public understanding and decision-making.

We are a collaborative, creative, and purpose-driven team that works across the charity to tell powerful stories, build meaningful relationships and create lasting impact. Together, we’re passionate about helping the Armed Forces community get the support they deserve.

In return we can offer you:

• Belonging to a team who make a difference to our community and value equality, diversity and inclusion.
• 29 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, regardless of service — plus your birthday off to celebrate!
• Opportunity to buy and sell up to 5 days annual leave per year.
• Added to our free health scheme from day one, including discounts on dental, opticians, massages, and more - with the option to upgrade.
• 3 volunteer days per year to support the Help for Heroes community.
• A generous salary sacrifice pension scheme with an 8% employer contribution and a minimum 3% employee contribution, plus life insurance up to 4× salary as an active member.

Closing date: 23rd August 2026

Interview Process: Two stage process with an initial competency based interview and second round stage involving a task.

First round interviews to be held in person or via Teams 4th/7th/8th or 9th September.

Second Round in person 16th or 22nd September.

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

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

We are looking for a creative, organised and experienced media and communications professional to join our External Affairs team within the Policy and External Affairs Directorate.

The Senior Media & Communications Manager will manage our press office and lead our media engagement activity to support our strategic impact and communications objectives, aligned to our business plan and wider corporate strategy.

You will use your skills and experience to help engage a range of media outlets on our expertise, insights and evidence on youth employment, placing our spokespeople appropriately for a variety of opportunities.

• You will also work closely with wider External Affairs colleagues and teams across the organisation to build our corporate impact narrative.

• At a time when youth employment is a high priority for Government and the news agenda, the post holder must also be able to demonstrate policy and political literacy and high comfort levels when working with policy, research and public affairs colleagues.

• This role is perfect for a proactive and agile professional with strong writing skills, who is excellent at building relationships internally and externally and able to engage external stakeholders and partners.

At a time when the youth employment agenda is so prominent, this role presents an exciting opportunity to be part of Youth Futures’ mission to help every young person achieve good work.

This role can be based at our Birmingham, Leeds or London hub. We currently operate a hybrid model of two-days per week in the office and three-days from home.

Please download our recruitment pack for more information on this opportunity.

Due to receiving high volumes of interest in our opportunities, this vacancy may close earlier than the advertised deadline. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

This role leads the development of evidence-based, equity-driven research, policy and legal interventions that advance a rapid and fair transition away from oil and gas production in the UK.

About us

Uplift supports efforts to create a rapid and fair transition away from oil and gas production in the UK. We urgently need to phase out oil and gas drilling to stay within safe climate limits. Yet, despite having renewable resources in abundance, the UK remains Europe’s second largest oil and gas producer. We can and must be ambitious about moving past oil and gas production, while empowering and supporting workers and communities who rely on the industry for their livelihoods. Working with everyone from policy-makers and Parliamentarians, to academics and campaigners, Uplift undertakes research, analysis and campaigning to support a rapid and fair transition away from oil and gas production in the UK.

Are you an exceptional communicator who enjoys building relationships, delivering memorable experiences and helping others connect with a meaningful cause? We invite you to apply for the Development Officer - Gardens, Libraries & Museums (GLAM) position within Development and Alumni Engagement at the University of Oxford, where your work will help secure philanthropic support for one of the world's leading universities.

Location: Oxford, with hybrid working available

Salary: Grade 6: £35,681 - £41,636 per annum, with a possible extension to £45,212 including an Oxford University Weighting of £1,730

Contract: Permanent, Full time

About Us

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires", the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you'll contribute to an organisation which delivers ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations.

Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE) plays a central role in enabling the University's ambitions by building meaningful relationships with alumni, philanthropists, trusts, foundations and partners around the world. Within the Gardens, Libraries and Museums team, you'll help unlock philanthropic support that preserves world-renowned collections, expands access to knowledge and enables cultural engagement for future generations. Your work will directly contribute to initiatives that enrich research, education and public understanding on a global scale.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays), with the option to purchase up to 10 additional days.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Sustainable travel benefits, including cycle loans, discounted bus travel and season ticket loans.
• Access to a wide range of social, cultural and sporting activities.

About the Role

This is an excellent opportunity to build a career in major gift fundraising within one of the world's most respected cultural institutions. Working with experienced colleagues, you'll develop your own portfolio of donors, helping to secure philanthropic support for the Bodleian and across the Gardens, Libraries and Museums.

Alongside developing donor relationships, you'll lead the delivery of two high-profile annual stewardship events attended by senior University figures, oversee annual fundraising appeals and create compelling proposals and communications that inspire philanthropic support. You'll work closely with colleagues across the University to turn complex academic and cultural projects into engaging stories for donors.

Whether you're already working in fundraising or bring transferable experience from events, communications, alumni relations or another externally facing role, you'll receive training and support to develop your expertise in major gifts fundraising.

About You

You will bring:

• Experience in fundraising, alumni relations, marketing or other relationship-focused roles.
• Excellent written communication skills, with the ability to produce engaging and persuasive content for different audiences.
• Experience of planning and delivering high-quality events
• Strong relationship-building skills, with confidence working with a wide range of stakeholders.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities, organise your own workload and deliver to deadlines.
• Experience using Microsoft Office applications and CRM or relationship management systems.
• A demonstrable interest in the cultural sector and a desire to develop a career in philanthropic fundraising.

Application Process

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 3 August 2026.

Face-to-face interviews will take place funon Thursday 13 August 2026

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Policy and Public Affairs Officer
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE) (We are open to flexible hours and working patterns, including accommodating part-time and compressed hours where possible).
Salary: £37,198 per annum
Location: London Fields, E8. NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 1 day working in the office.

The Vacancy

We are currently recruiting two Policy and Public Affairs Officers.

The Policy and Public Affairs Officer will play an important role in delivering NCB’s policy and public affairs priorities. This role will develop evidence-based policy positions through analysis, research, and collaboration with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. It will advance these positions by producing high-quality policy papers, reports, consultation responses, and blogs.

The role will support NCB’s engagement with key policy coalitions and decision-makers. Through collaboration with colleagues and external partners, it will ensure that the views of children, young people, and parents are represented in NCB’s policy development and public affairs.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Applications close at 08:00am on Monday, 17 August 2026.
Assessment and interview dates are to be confirmed.
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Policy and Communications Officer
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE) (We are open to flexible hours and working patterns, including accommodating part-time and compressed hours where possible).
Salary: £37,198.00 per annum
Location: London Fields, E8. NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 2 days working in the office.

The Vacancy

The Policy and Communications Officer will deliver key elements of NCB’s core and funded project work across policy, public affairs and communications. The position will play an important delivery role to enhance our visibility and impact across key policy areas, and to bring lived and learned experiences to the heart of our influencing.

This role will work to elevate our profile, transforming our evidence and expertise into impactful communications and influencing to build a momentum for meaningful policy, legislative and social change. This position will contribute to bridging the gap between NCB’s evidence-based policy development and national advocacy, translating complex policy issues into powerful narratives that resonate with decision-makers and galvanise wider support.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Applications close at 08:00am on Monday, 17 August 2026.
Assessment and interview dates are to be confirmed.
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

Woman’s Trust is a leading mental health charity supporting women affected by domestic abuse. For nearly 30 years, we have provided free, trauma-informed counselling, therapeutic groups, and workshops to help women rebuild their emotional wellbeing. Led by and for women, we support over 900 women and children annually, with an income of £1.4m and a dedicated team of 40 staff.

We are seeking a Head of Fundraising and Development to lead our fundraising team and play a key role in our Senior Leadership Team. You’ll be joining Woman’s Trust at a pivotal moment, as we build on nearly 30 years of specialist expertise to meet growing demand, expand our services for women and girls, and extend our influence through training, research, partnerships and policy to create lasting change. As demand for our services grows, we aim to double the number of women we support annually, achieved in part through growing our income.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Developing new funder and partner relationships across trusts, foundations, statutory bodies, and corporates.

• Strengthening existing relationships to secure sustainable, multi-year funding.

• Leading fundraising growth, aiming for £3m by 2027/28.

• Collaborating with the CEO, trustees, and Senior Leadership Team to shape fundraising strategy and operational delivery.

• Leading an passionate team of fundraisers to maximise income generation opportunities.

We seek a highly motivated, ambitious fundraiser with proven experience at a senior level, securing five- and six-figure and multi-year grants. You should be skilled in relationship building, with a keen interest in communicating and influencing key stakeholders to create strategic partnerships that align with priorities. An interest in mental health and supporting women affected by domestic abuse will be essential.

This is an excellent opportunity for a talented fundraising professional looking to develop in a leadership role, or an experienced Head of Fundraising eager to grow their impact and career as we do. You will join a passionate, collaborative team working to create lasting change.

We offer:

• A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment including a dedicated Senior Leadership Team and Board, including a CEO with a fundraising background, alongside trustees with fundraising expertise and a focus on providing income generation and partnership insights.

• The opportunity to shape and expand our fundraising function, developing your career in the process.

• A chance to make a real impact on the lives of women and children.

• Good benefits, including:

  • Hybrid & flexible working

  • 25 days holidays + 3 days at Christmas + Public holidays. Annual leave increases by 1 day after 5 years, and then by 1 day per year up to amaximum of 30 days.

  • Enhanced sick pay

  • Cycle to work scheme

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

  • Individual staff professional development budget and mandatory job-related training.

If you would like to learn more about the role and how to apply, please download the full appointment brief and speak to our retained consultant, Ami Jenick at People Beyond Profit.

If you are an ambitious fundraiser ready to drive growth and transform the lives of women and children, we would love to hear from you!

Closing Date: 31 August 2026

People Beyond Profit Converations:3-10 September 2026

Woman’s Trust Interview:

• First stage: 22nd September 2026 (Online)

• Second stage: 28 September 2026

This role will join an ambitious programme developing the capacity of the Libraries Connected public library networks. We want to help them evolve as strategic partnerships able to deliver social impacts at scale and to secure resources and investment from national, regional and sub-regional government. Be key to the development of libraries as essential social infrastructure, and help them secure the resources they need to make an impact. 

The role is part of a small team of two Regional Managers, supported by an Administrator. 

By developing our existing regional networks into formal, resourced structures we can enable the regions to: 

• Secure investment for the service and for the libraries from regional and devolved / combined authority funds.
• Create unique regional offers to meet specific needs across and within the regional areas.
• Deliver at scale. For example, the Yorkshire & Humber regional network has 15 library services, and 348 library buildings. 
• Create opportunities for cost saving – through joint procurement and shared / collaborative services. 
• Share good practice and experience on a formal and integrated basis. 

We have 9 regional networks in England, covering all library services and ranging in size from 9 to 33 services. Within each region they provide hundreds of library branches, thousands of staff, and serve millions of service users.  They have a long tradition of working together as peer support networks and to deliver activities such as festivals, marketing, and staff training. 

Please see the attached job description for a full description of the role, including person specification. 

Frequent travel within the UK may be required for the role.

About Libraries Connected 

We are an independent charity that supports, promotes and represents public libraries. Our work is driven and led by our membership, which includes almost every library service in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Crown Dependencies (Guernsey, Jersey and the Isle of Man).  

Across the areas we serve there are 176 individual library services with around 3,000 library branches serving over 61 million people. 

Our unique approach is to bring these services together to share experience, expertise and evidence – driving innovation and impact across the public library sector.

While senior library leaders sit on our board and committees, we work with library staff at all levels.

As well as providing practical support, training and advice to libraries, we represent them to government and raise their profile in the media. We also develop and lead national library projects with cultural, academic and corporate partners.  

We work to a strategic plan that runs until 2027, organised around four themes: drive, grow, connect and engage.  

We generate income from membership subscriptions, commissioned services, events and grants. As an Arts Council Investment Principle Support Organisation, part of our core funding in England comes from the Arts Council to help embed their Investment Principles across the library network.   

Our values 

• We are supportive. We respond to the varied, emerging needs of our members and their communities to enable libraries to learn from each other, and other sector leaders, so that they can safeguard and improve their services.  

• We are inclusive. We work with our members and partners to design and deliver our work and to determine our strategic priorities because we are committed to representing the diverse communities and libraries which we serve.  

• We are open. We are in constant communication with our members and partners on all levels to learn from their experiences, reflect on our practice and develop our services. We welcome challenge and new directions for our work.  

• We are ambitious. We believe that libraries are an essential part of the solution to a range of society’s needs. We promote innovation and collaboration to ensure that libraries are recognised locally and nationally.  

Working at Libraries Connected 

We are a friendly, collaborative team of around 20 staff based all around England and Wales. 

We value diversity and are committed to promoting an inclusive working environment. We strongly believe that inclusive and diverse organisations are not only better places to work, they are more innovative, make better decisions and are more successful. We value people who bring unique perspectives and knowledge to our team. 

We want to make our recruitment process as fair as possible. To reduce bias, we shortlist candidates based on their responses to up to six application questions. These are designed to tell us about your values, experience, attitudes to work, and transferable skills. We do not ask for a separate cover letter or supporting statement. 

We offer flexible working as standard, helping work fit around family and caring responsibilities. Many of our staff work their hours in different ways, including flexi time and compressed hours. We are open to discussing what would work for you and be possible for the role. 

All roles are remote and are open to applicants who live anywhere in the UK. We provide staff with a home office set-up including laptop, monitor and phone. There is the option to work from our central London office or use a co-working space if it is not possible to work from home. 

We welcome requests for adjustments to our standard recruitment processes for anyone who needs them. 

• As a Policy and Public Affairs Officer, you’ll support the British Heart Foundation’s policy and public affairs work across Scotland, helping to influence decision-makers and advance our priorities. Working within the Devolved Nations Policy and Public Affairs team, you’ll engage with the Scottish Government, Scottish Parliament, charity sector and clinical community to help deliver BHF’s objectives.

  You’ll contribute to influencing plans, monitor political and policy developments, prepare high-quality briefings and consultation responses, and identify opportunities to raise awareness of issues affecting people with heart and circulatory diseases. You’ll also help organise events, build relationships with key stakeholders and represent BHF at meetings, conferences and parliamentary events.

  Working collaboratively across the organisation, you’ll help ensure BHF’s policy positions are evidence-based, relevant to Scotland and effectively communicated to a range of audiences.

  About you

  As our ideal candidate, you’ll have:

  • Knowledge of the political environment and devolved government in Scotland.
  • A strong interest in policy and public affairs, with relevant experience desirable.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex issues clearly.
  • Experience producing high-quality written content for a variety of audiences.
  • Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Effective interpersonal and influencing skills, with the confidence to engage a range of stakeholders.
  • The ability to work independently whilst contributing positively as part of a team.
  • Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office, and a willingness to learn Microsoft 365 Copilot.

  If you’re a proactive and collaborative individual with an interest in policy and public affairs, and you're looking to make a meaningful impact in the fight against heart and circulatory disease, we’d love to hear from you.

  Belonging at BHF

  By embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive environment, we strengthen our ability to achieve our mission of saving and improving lives, ensuring our work reflects and serves the needs of every community across the UK. 

  To hear from our people, check out  Belonging at BHF. 

  Our people are at the heart of everything we do. By funding research across six decades, we’ve helped keep millions of hearts beating and millions of families together. We’re investing in ground-breaking research that will get us closer than ever to a world where everyone has a healthier heart for longer.

  Working arrangements

  This is an 18 month fixed term contract to cover an internal secondment.

  This is a hybrid role, where your work will be split between your home and at least one day per week, on average, in our Edinburgh Office. This may vary from time to time, so you will need to work in a flexible way to unlock your best work for our cause.

  Benefits and development 

  At BHF, we offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to support our colleagues’ wellbeing and professional growth.

  To find out more about our benefits you can download the Benefits document at the bottom of this page or check out our Benefits and Development pages.

  Need more help balancing your work and home life? Talk to us about what flexibility is available at the application or interview stage.

  Interview process

  The interview process may take place in-person or virtually via MS Teams.

  How to apply

  It’s quick and easy to apply for a role at the BHF. Just click on the apply button below. All you’ll need is an up-to-date CV and a supporting statement, outlining your interest in the role and how you meet the role’s criteria. 

  Our recruitment processes are fair, accessible, and inclusive. BHF use anonymous CV software as part of the application journey. 

  We support responsible use of AI to help shape your application. By applying for a role at BHF, you confirm that your application is authentic and reflects your own skills and experience, to ensure everyone is assessed fairly.

  Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact us.

About Us

We are an environmental charity with science at our heart. We help people to take action to protect the nature around them; by connecting them with it and giving them the tools they need to do so. We passionately believe in citizen science and are leaders in it. Our current focus areas include helping to create nature-friendly urban spaces, growing the impact of internationally known citizen science programmes such as Freshwater Watch, developing early career scientists and sharing learning internationally, and working with partners to advance the science, tools and thinking behind citizen science.

What we are looking for

Earthwatch Europe is recruiting a Director of Science and Impact. We are looking for someone with a deep understanding of the pressures facing our natural world and how citizen science and community action can help address these challenges, using high quality data, knowledge and practical demonstration to influence governments and corporations.

You will have a background in citizen science and an in depth understanding of current and future environmental policy trends and priorities.  You will be an experienced leader with excellent interpersonal skills and a track record of successful relationship and partnership development at all levels. You will have strong project and budget management experience, and you will be an exceptional strategic thinker with the ability to create and deliver effective strategies and action plans

Please see the full job description attached.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK; Earthwatch is unable to support visa applications. 

Earthwatch is committed to making any adjustments we can for short-listed candidates, to facilitate participation in our interview process. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo a DBS check and other due diligence checks, given the nature of this position within the charity.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible. 

Post Title: Director of Development

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

Salary: £38,750 - £43,750

Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week (matchdays, evenings and weekends as required)

Location: AESSEAL New York Stadium

Closing date: Monday 3 August 2026

About this role: This is an exciting opportunity to join Rotherham United Community Trust’s Executive Team and lead the ‘Strengthen and Grow’ theme within the Trust’s United for Change strategy. The Director of Development will drive sustainable growth by strengthening programmes, increasing income, developing strategic partnerships and embedding a culture of continuous improvement across the organisation. You will work closely with the CEO, Board and senior leaders to maximise the Trust’s impact while ensuring operational excellence and long-term sustainability.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Programmes and Interventions

• Support department leads and ensure effective delivery of national/regional and local programmes.
• Oversee programme monitoring and evaluation systems.

2. Income Generation

• Develop a business plan with KPIs for year-on-year income growth.
• Innovate and refine fundraising approaches (donors, foundations, corporates, digital).
• Design and market income-generating products/programmes.
• Develop and nurture relationships with new and existing partners including businesses and charities.

3. Operational Management

• Manage financial and physical resources, including budgeting.
• Deliver services that generate income.
• Report to the Trust Board and attend and present at Board/sub-committee meetings.

4. Continuous Improvement

• With reference to the Capability Code of Practice, lead the design and delivery of a continuous improvement plan for internal operations.
• Introduce systems and tools to improve efficiency, staff experience, and service delivery.
• Monitor internal performance metrics and work with team leads to address underperformance.
• Promote a culture of evidence-based decision making and accountability.

5. Team Leadership and Collaboration

• Exhibit and promote the Trust’s values and vision.
• Contribute to strategic planning as part of the Executive Team.
• Provide leadership, direction and line management to designated managers and teams.
• Contribute to Trust strategies, policies, and procedures.
• Work collaboratively across departments to align resource planning with organisational goals.
• Lead Trust Business Development, EDI and Sustainability action plans.

6. Miscellaneous

• Additional duties as assigned by the CEO.
• Comply with Equal Opportunities and Health & Safety policies.
• Demonstrate commitment to inclusive and safe working practices.
• Demonstrate high levels of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Person Specification: Director of Development

1. Relevant Experience

Essential

• Significant experience in a senior leadership or management role.
• Developing and delivering strategic plans that achieve organisational objectives.
• Business development, income generation and securing new opportunities for growth.
• Building and managing effective partnerships and stakeholder relationships.
• Leading and developing managers and teams.
• Driving organisational improvement, change or transformation initiatives.
• Developing new products, services or programmes.

Desirable

• Experience within the charity, sport, education, health or community sectors.
• Experience of leading cross-organisational projects involving multiple stakeholders.

2. Education and Training

Essential

• Degree-level qualification or equivalent professional experience.

Desirable

• Professional qualification in leadership, management, business development or a related field.

3. Knowledge

• Understanding of the sport, physical activity and community development sectors.
• Knowledge of business development, fundraising and partnership development.
• Understanding of organisational performance management and continuous improvement.
• Knowledge of monitoring, evaluation and impact measurement.
• Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion and barriers to participation.

4. Skills and Abilities

• Excellent communication, presentation and influencing skills.
• Strong relationship-building and networking abilities.
• Strategic thinking with the ability to translate ideas into action.
• Ability to identify opportunities for growth, innovation and improvement.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to use data and evidence to inform decision-making.
• Effective leadership and people management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results through others.
• Ability to challenge constructively and drive positive change.

5. Additional Factors

• Commitment to the values and purpose of Rotherham United Community Trust
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Commitment to safeguarding children, young people and adults at risk.
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends when required.
• Ability to travel independently for meetings and events.

The development officer supports World Physiotherapy’s global development programmes and initiatives, working closely with the development programme manager and senior development officer. The role contributes to projects that strengthen the physiotherapy profession worldwide through programme development, donor engagement, grant support, project administration, stakeholder communications, and the coordination of meetings and events.

This is an excellent opportunity for a highly organised and proactive individual interested in global health and international development. The postholder will work with a diverse range of partners, including member organisations, donors, consultants, academic institutions, and international agencies, helping to advance projects that improve physiotherapy education, practice, and professional development around the world.

Duties and key responsibilities

The development officer will:

• Support the development and delivery of programmes that strengthen physiotherapy globally.
• Provide administrative and operational support to the development programme manager and senior development officer across a range of development initiatives.
• Assist in the identification, design, and development of new programmes and projects that support the establishment and growth of the physiotherapy profession.
• Monitor and track funding, partnership, and development opportunities relevant to World Physiotherapy’s strategic priorities.
• Support donor engagement activities and contribute to the cultivation and maintenance of donor relationships.
• Assist with the preparation of grant proposals, concept notes, reports, and other fundraising materials.
• Support the coordination, administration, and monitoring of existing development projects and programmes.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, records, and databases, ensuring compliance with organisational requirements.
• Coordinate meetings, webinars, workshops, and other activities related to membership and development programmes and partnerships.
• Manage membership and development-related enquiries and assist with follow-up communications with stakeholders and partners.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including member organisations, partners, funders, and consultants.
• Contribute to the preparation of project updates, communications, presentations, and reports as required.
• Undertake other duties commensurate with the role and level of responsibility.

Education and qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy, international development, global or public health, or related field
• Commitment to ongoing professional development in governance or non-profit management.

Essential experience and skills

• Experience within the health, education, regulatory, international development sector highly regarded.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent planning and organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Experience coordinating projects and supporting committees or governance processes.
• Experience in fundraising and/or writing grant proposals.
• Ability to work independently within a hybrid environment.
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders.
• Experience in Microsoft suite/excel.

Desirable

• Knowledge of the physiotherapy profession and the role of professional associations in advancing healthcare and rehabilitation.
• Experience working with international professional associations, non-governmental organisations, or health-related organisations.
• Experience engaging and collaborating with stakeholders from diverse cultural and geographic backgrounds.
• Understanding of global health, rehabilitation, or international development programmes.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency in Spanish or French (highly desirable) or another language in addition to English.

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

The development officer will support programmes and partnerships that strengthen the physiotherapy profession globally. Through assisting with programme development, fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and project coordination, the postholder will help World Physiotherapy deliver initiatives that build workforce capacity, support member organisations, and improve access to high-quality rehabilitation services worldwide.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Director of Operations & Organisational Effectiveness is responsible for leadingUbele's operational infrastructure and ensuring the organisation has the systems,processes, people, governance and resources required to operate effectively andsustainably.

As a member of the management board, the postholder will work closely with thecurrent CEO and colleagues across the organisation to strengthen organisationaleffectiveness, improve operational performance and create the conditions forsuccessful programme delivery and long-term organisational resilience.

The role will provide leadership across operations, governance, finance oversight,people management, compliance, organisational planning and businessimprovement, ensuring that Ubele's operational foundations support its mission,values and ambitions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational leadership and organisational effectiveness

Lead the development and continuous improvement of organisational systems,processes and operational practices.

Drive organisational effectiveness through improved planning, coordination,accountability and performance management.

Ensure effective operational planning and resource allocation across theorganisation.

Establish and embed clear operational frameworks, policies and procedures

Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, strengthen delivery and enhanceorganisational performance.

Lead organisational improvement initiatives and support the implementation ofchange programmes where required.

Promote a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration and accountability.

People, culture and performance        

Provide leadership for organisational people practices, ensuring effectiveworkforce planning, employee engagement and performance management.

Support managers to develop high-performing and inclusive teams.

Ensure HR policies, procedures and employment practices are effectivelyimplemented.

Lead organisational approaches to performance management, learning andprofessional development.

Contribute to the development of a positive organisational culture that reflectsUbele's values and commitment to equity and inclusion.

Support organisational wellbeing and employee engagement initiatives.

Finance, risk and governance

Work closely with the Finance Lead and CEO to ensure robust financialmanagement, planning and reporting arrangements are in place.

Support the development and monitoring of organisational budgets and financialcontrols.

Ensure effective governance processes are maintained and support high-qualityreporting to the Board.

Lead the development and maintenance of organisational risk managementframeworks.

Oversee organisational compliance with legal, regulatory and statutoryrequirements.

Ensure organisational policies are regularly reviewed, updated and implemented.

Coordinate internal and external audits and compliance reviews.

Programme operations and organisational delivery              

Support effective organisational planning and delivery across programmes,projects and services.

Develop systems and processes that enable effective programme management,monitoring and reporting.

Ensure organisational resources are aligned to operational priorities and deliveryrequirements.                  

Oversee organisational performance reporting and management informationsystems.

Support cross-organisational collaboration and effective communication betweenteams.

Ensure grant, contract and reporting obligations are effectively monitored andfulfilled.

Assets, infrastructure and compliance

Provide operational oversight of Ubele's facilities, assets and organisationalinfrastructure, including supporting Wolves Lane leadership and other operationalresources.

Ensure effective management of suppliers, contractors and operational serviceproviders.

Oversee health and safety, safeguarding, data protection and organisationalcompliance arrangements.

Ensure business continuity and organisational resilience plans are maintained andregularly reviewed.

Maintain appropriate systems and controls to support safe, compliant andeffective operations.

External relationships and organisational representation

Develop effective relationships with operational partners, suppliers, funders andstakeholders as required.

Contribute operational insight and expertise to partnership discussions andorganisational initiatives.

Represent Ubele on operational, governance and organisational matters whereappropriate.

Support the CEO and management board through the provision of high-qualityoperational information, analysis and recommendations.

Person Specification

Skills      

Operational leadership skills, with the ability to drive organisational effectivenessand continuous improvement.

Planning, prioritisation and organisational skills.

People management and leadership skills, including the ability to develop andsupport teams.

Ability to analyse information and use data to support decision-making andperformance improvement.

Financial and commercial awareness.

Communication, influencing and relationship management skills.

Ability to build productive working relationships with colleagues, Board members,partners, funders and external stakeholders.

Problem-solving skills and the ability to identify practical solutions toorganisational challenges.

Ability to manage multiple priorities and work within a dynamic and evolvingenvironment.

Report writing, presentation and analytical skills.

Experience

Experience in a senior operational leadership role within a charity, socialenterprise, CIC, public sector or similarly complex organisation.

Experience leading organisational operations, systems, processes and businessimprovement initiatives.

Experience managing organisational change and embedding new ways ofworking.

Experience leading and developing multidisciplinary teams.

Experience overseeing organisational budgets, financial controls and resourceplanning.

Experience supporting governance arrangements and working with Boards andSenior Leadership Teams.

Experience developing and implementing organisational policies, procedures andoperational frameworks.

Experience overseeing risk management, compliance and organisationalassurance processes.

Experience managing contracts, suppliers and operational resources.

Experience supporting the delivery of programmes, projects and services within acomplex organisational environment.

Knowledge

Knowledge of governance, compliance and risk management frameworks.

Knowledge of financial management principles, budgeting and performancereporting.

Knowledge of employment legislation and people management practices.

Knowledge of safeguarding, health and safety, data protection and organisationalcompliance requirements.

Knowledge of organisational development and continuous improvementapproaches.

Understanding of the operational challenges and opportunities facing charities,CICs and social enterprises.

Understanding of equity, inclusion and community-centred approaches toorganisational leadership.

Understanding of the social, economic and structural issues affecting AfricanDiaspora communities and community-led organisations.

Knowledge of grant-funded and contract-funded operating environments.

This role involves responsibility for socially impactful and occasionally emotionallydemanding work. A commitment to wellbeing, reflective leadership, and resilience isessential.

A DBS check may be required depending on Ubele’s programmes.

This job description may evolve as Ubele continues its organisational development.

Location: London (with hybrid working available)
Closing date: Thursday 10 September
Interview date: Thursday 24 September in London
Salary: £100,000 pa

Brook is a 4 Day Week employer

About Brook

Brook believes in a society where everyone is supported to live healthy, safe and fulfilling lives. For over sixty years, Brook has been a pioneering force, transforming lives and communities. Brook fights for the right to excellent sexual health, mental health and wellbeing, offering lifelong support that is inclusive, non-judgmental and accessible to all. Our unique offer combines clinical services, relationships and sex education, outreach in community settings, wellbeing programmes and counselling. In 2025/26, we supported 1.45 million people through our frontline services. We delivered 4,053 mental health and wellbeing interventions, supported 111,931 people through our education and wellbeing work and supported 57,071 people through our all-age clinical services.

About the role

We’re looking for a Director of Engagement, Communications & Income to provide strategic leadership across income generation, service development, marketing, communications, policy and external engagement.

The role is key to strengthen organisational sustainability by securing diverse and sustainable income streams.  You will provide strategic leadership for service development and oversee the identification, development and submission of high-value, complex bids and tenders for commissioned services. 

You will oversee communications, marketing and brand activity ensuring communications effectively position the organisation to attract funders, donors, corporate partners and stakeholders.  You will lead the organisation’s external engagement strategy to enhance profile, influence and reach.

About you
You will have significant senior leadership experience and be skilled at collaborative working. Your outstanding leadership, influencing and relationship-building skills will be evidenced through a track record of securing income from diverse sources. You will have extensive experience in in communications, brand development and stakeholder engagement.

Your ability to efficiently manage a complex and busy workload with conflicting priorities will enable you to work well under pressure and deliver to deadlines. You will have an in-depth knowledge of the charitable funding landscape, the public sector commissioning environment and a broad range of communications activities. 

Benefits of working for Brook:

• 4 Day Week (Working 20% hours less without salary decrease)
• Annual leave – 28 days per annum, increasing up to 33 days plus 8 bank holidays 
• Sick pay (from 3 up to 12 weeks fully paid) 
• Flexible working 
• Gratitude scheme 
• Assisted purchase scheme 
• Cycle to Work up to £1k 
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) 
• Long service awards 
• Maternity and paternity pay 
• Pension scheme – Employee pension contributions matched by Brook up to 4% of qualifying earnings
• Training and development opportunities 
• Coaching

Please note - this role requires the successful applicant to undertake an enhanced DBS check. Candidates must be able to provide paperwork demonstrating their right to work in the UK.

Please note: internal applicants with live sanctions will not be considered for this role. 

We reserve the right to close this vacancy when we are in receipt of sufficient applications. Should you wish to apply for this post you are advised to submit your application as soon as possible. 

Due to the high number of applications for this post, it will not be possible to respond to every application. We will contact you within 4 weeks of the closing date if you have been shortlisted for the role. 

Thank you for your interest in working for Brook.
 

Brook Safeguarding with Purpose

Working with People Safely. Safe Place, Safe People.