Policy development jobs

About us

Community rail is a unique and growing grassroots movement made up of community rail partnerships, station volunteer groups and other community-led initiatives across Britain.

Together, these organisations and volunteers deliver a wide range of initiatives, from engaging young people and building confidence in rail travel, to improving accessibility, enhancing stations, supporting biodiversity projects and creating community spaces that bring people together.

Community Rail Network is the national membership and umbrella body for the community rail movement across England, Scotland and Wales. We empower, support and champion community-led partnerships and groups, helping them create social, environmental and economic value through their work.

Our team of 22 colleagues is based across Britain, working mainly from home while coming together regularly online and in person. We are a collaborative, values-led organisation, passionate about making a difference through community rail.

We believe in nurturing talent, supporting professional development and creating an environment where everyone can reach their potential while maintaining a healthy work–life balance.

About this role and your main responsibilities

We are looking for a compassionate, collaborative and creative leader to head up our work with members. Everyone on the team is here for our members, but you will lead the way in ensuring everything we do is driven by what members need, now and in the future, to help them develop, grow and thrive. You’ll also help ensure our members have a great experience whenever they are accessing our support and services.

As a member of the senior leadership team, you’ll actively contribute towards its collective work in driving organisational performance and success, including growing investment in our work so we can make an even bigger difference for our members and the communities they serve.

Please see the attached introduction from our Chief Executive and role profile for further information about the position, including its principal responsibilities and the experience, skills and attributes we are looking for.

Other information

The role will involve regular travel across England, Scotland and Wales to raise the organisation’s profile and engage with members, partners and key stakeholders.

There is flexibility on your location given the requirement to travel and that your office will be home-based. You will need to travel to in-person quarterly team meetings (usually in London or the north of England) and to Board meetings which alternate between online and London.

It is expected that travel will be by public transport and easy access to the rail network is therefore required to ensure journeys can be made sustainably. 

This is a full-time position, 37 hours per week. We use a flexi-time system with core hours 10am-3pm, and are committed to being a flexible, supportive and understanding employer. This is a permanent position with a probationary period of three months. 

Successful applicants will need to provide proof that they have the right to work in the UK and provide two references.

Community Rail Network is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and Black, Asian and other minoritised groups, who meet with the skills and competencies for this role. We will provide reasonable adjustments for interviews as required.

Regional Youth and Community Director
OASIS UK – Youth and Community (OCP)

0.6 FTE, Permanent

Salary:£31,487 (FTE £52,479)

We’re excited to be recruiting for a key leadership position supporting Oasis’ youth and community work in the North West region (covering delivery in Greater Manchester and Bradford).With accountability to the Oasis Community Partnerships CEO the role of the Regional Youth and Community Director has three main functions:

1 Strategic management oversight of local Youth and Community teams

2 Regional development, working alongside other functions within the Oasis family

3 Being part of the national Youth and Community leadership team

The Youth and Community Director will have strategic management oversight of local Youth and Community teams in the region, providing accountability and support to the local leaders and charity boards. This responsibility area falls into two categories; those the Director is directly responsible for, and those they are responsible for ensuring are carried out by leaders within their region.

ORGANISATIONAL CONTEXT

Oasis neighbourhoods are local places of activity that provide integrated, high quality and diverse services to benefit the whole person and the whole community. The Oasis ethos stems from our Christian roots and is an expression of our character - it is a declaration of who we are and therefore the lens through which we assess all we do. This is encapsulated by the following five statements:

a passion to include everyone

a desire to treat everyone equally, respecting differences

a commitment to healthy and open relationships

a deep sense of hope that things can change and be transformed

a sense of perseverance to keep going for the long haul

An Oasis neighbourhood is a community movement and the joining together of all the work Oasis does in any one place, which could include foodbanks, debt advice centres, family support and advice services, healthcare, youth work, children’s work, alongside other Oasis activities in that community, including formal education through Oasis Academies.

The Youth and Community function of Oasis is responsible for the wider community work that takes place within Oasis neighbourhoods, working closely with the wider Oasis family to outwork our vision. In relation to governance, Oasis Community Partnerships is the national charity, with each local team operating from their own local Oasis charity.

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a growing national organisation, making a difference to communities on a local level, whilst also influencing the national landscape.  As part of the package, Oasis offers:

• A pension scheme, currently offering 7% employer contribution
• A generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year (plus 8 Bank Holidays)

Please contact us to arrange for an informal conversation with our CEO to find out more about the role. If you are interested in this position, please send your CV and a covering letter (ensuring you refer to the job description and person spec).

The successful candidates must have the right to work in the UK.  Oasis cannot assist with sponsorship or visas.

We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and minority and underrepresented groups. If you require any assistance to overcome potential barriers to application, please let us know.

Completed applications should be returned by 9am on Tuesday 8th September.

Interviews will take place week beginning 21st September. (Shorter more informal calls may be arranged the previous week to assist with shortlisting)

Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos.  We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities.  Registered Charity No. 08749179

At Family Action we support people through change, challenge or crisis. It’s what we’ve done for over 150 years. We protect children, support young people and adults and offer direct, practical help to families and communities.

We see first-hand the power of family to shape lives, for better or worse, so we speak up for the

importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today.

Main Responsibilities:

The Business Development Team provides a specialist support function to enable the organisation to achieve its growth objectives. We promote the strategic growth of the organisation by supporting the retention of existing work and securing new contracts via competitive tender and business proposals.

This is an exciting opportunity for a Bid Writer with demonstratable writing experience and knowledge to join us and write applications that fully articulate Family Action’s offer.  Experience relevant for your effectiveness in the role might be from various sectors.  If you are passionate about supporting us to submit high-quality tenders and applications, achieving success rates whilst engaging with our services to contribute and evidence the impact of their work for inclusion in submissions then we would like to hear from you.

Strategic Community Development Lead

Based in Oldham

Full-time (40 hours per week, 1 FTE)

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £40,444 per annum

Opportunity

Oasis is looking for a Strategic Community Development Lead who can combine an entrepreneurial flair and excellent leadership skills to lead Oasis Hub Oldham through the next phase of its growth.

We are seeking an experienced Strategic Community Development Lead who will bring fresh vision, take the community on the next stage of its journey together as a movement and bring innovation as well as stability to the charity.

About us

Oasis Hub Oldham is a local charity that is embedded in two communities in Oldham – Hollinwood and Leesbrook, where there are also four Oasis Academies.  Our vision is for communities where everyone is included and no one is left out.

Key responsibilities

This is a key role as you will be responsible for strategic oversight of the local charity, ensuring the youth and community work is aligned to the the work of the academy, working alongside other local Oasis leaders such as the Academy Principal, volunteers and members of the local community to develop a joined up local vision for the community.

Some of the specific duties of this role include:

· Establishment and coordination of a range of provision such as family support, youth work, holiday clubs, volunteering and community empowerment projects.

· Maintaining and building supportive working partnerships across the community and various groups.

· Leading policy and process oversight.

· Planning, resourcing and coordinating the community plan, measuring impact.

· Strengthening the local Oasis Movement.

About you

This is very much a relational and project management role. As such, the successful applicant will need to demonstrate:

· A strategic mindset, and experience of leading community delivery and growing projects.

· Innovative use of resources and budget management to maximise funding, with a track record of securing income.

· A thorough knowledge and understanding community work.

· An education to degree level or equivalent and /or relevant professional qualification.

This is a unique opportunity for a self-reliant and results-focused individual, who is looking to make a difference in this complex and high-profile field of work.

What we offer

· Flexible working practices which encourage innovation and fresh ideas.

· A supportive network and friendly team in a motivating working environment.

· A non-contributory defined benefit pension scheme with 7% employer contributions.

· 25 days holiday per year (plus Bank Holidays), rising to 30 days after 2 years of service.

· Employee wellbeing schemes such as Cycle to Work and an employee funded health cash plan.

Application process

For full details please go the Oasis UK charity website. 

Closing date for completed applications is 9AM on Tuesday 8th September 2026. Interviews will take place week beginning 21st September 2026. (Shorter more informal calls may be arranged the previous week to assist with shortlisting)

Please send your CV and a covering letter (ensuring you refer to the job description and person spec).

To arrange a visit or an informal conversation about the role, please contact us via the Oasis charity website.

We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and minority and underrepresented groups. Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from the Oasis ethos. 

The successful candidates must have the right to work in the UK.  Oasis cannot assist with sponsorship or visas. If you require assistance or adjustments to overcome potential barriers during the recruitment process, please let us know.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment and to undergo appropriate checks, including enhanced DBS checks.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities.  Registered Charity No. 1163889

Lord’s Taverners

The Lord’s Taverners exists to positively impact the lives of young people facing the challenges of inequality. Through inclusive and transformative cricket programmes, we empower young people with disabilities and from disadvantaged communities across the UK and beyond.

We are now seeking an organised and proactive Visually Impaired Cricket Development Officer to join our People & Programmes directorate. You will deliver and coordinate Super 1s VI community hubs in targeted areas, ensuring sessions are inclusive and accessible for young people aged 8–25 with a visual impairment, and support the delivery of a year-round programme that promotes positive social outcomes, helping young people build confidence, skills and connections through cricket.

The Role

The Visually Impaired Cricket Development Officer will give more young people with a visual impairment the chance to play cricket regularly by growing and delivering the Super 1s programme in targeted areas, attracting new participants, and supporting coaches to build their skills and confidence.

About You

You will be an organised, proactive and people-focused individual with a passion for disability sport. You’ll bring strong communication skills, confidence, and a positive, can-do approach to working as part of a busy team.

You will bring:

• Effective communication skills, with reliable teamwork and interpersonal skills
• The ability to collaborate and build partnerships
• Strong organisational and planning skills
• The ability to work independently and use initiative
• Willingness and ability to travel as required.
• A proactive, positive approach.

At Lord’s Taverners, sport is a means to an end. We are looking for people who share our belief in sport’s power to change lives, and who are motivated by impact, inclusion and opportunity for young people.

Safeguarding 

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. 

This role requires an enhanced DBS check and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. In line with statutory guidance, applicants do not need to disclose youth cautions or any protected convictions or cautions. 

As part of our safer recruitment practices, an online search will be carried out on all shortlisted candidates. 

Benefits:

• 25 days annual leave + Bank Holidays
• Five additional holiday days between Christmas and New Year – Dates vary annually
• Pension contribution of 6%
• Group Income protection (long-term incapacity pay)
• Critical illness Cover
• Group Life assurance (death in service)
• Health Cash Plan
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave pay
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Two volunteering days
• Birthday day off
• Season ticket loan
• Flexible Working
• Wellbeing plan

Application Instructions

As part of your application, please submit:

• Your CV, and
• A written response (maximum 500 words) to the following question:

“Please describe a time when you have developed sporting provision for young people. Briefly outline the challenge, action you took and the impact your work had on outcomes. Please focus on your individual contribution rather than a team activity and use an example from working with disabled or disadvantaged young people where appropriate.”

We will not accept applications that do not complete this task, or applications that upload a cover note in place of the required written response.

Key Dates

• Applications open: Tuesday 11 August 
• Application deadline: 23:59 on Sunday 30 August

Please note we may close the vacancy early if we receive exceptional applications. Should this occur, all applicants will be notified.

• First-stage interviews (online): Monday 7 September 2026
• Second-stage interviews (in person): Tuesday 15 September 2026

Interview Process

First Stage (Online)

The first stage will take place online and will last 45 minutes in total. The session will include:

• A 30-minute task/activity
• A 15-minute debrief with the hiring managers

Second Stage (In Person)

Shortlisted candidates who progress to the second stage will be invited to an in-person interview, comprising:

• 45 minutes of competency-based questions
• 15 minutes for further conversation about the role

Interview questions will be shared with shortlisted candidates in advance to support preparation.

Accessibility

We want every candidate to feel comfortable and able to perform at their best. If you require any adjustments or support to take part in the interview process, please let us know and we will be happy to accommodate.

The opportunity:

This is a senior role with responsibility for the strategic direction, quality and impact of We Belong’s youth development portfolio. Reporting to the CEO and working as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will lead programmes spanning early intervention, educational attainment, further and higher education, employability, skills development, youth leadership and progression into positive opportunities.

You will oversee the Let Us Learn Programme, Emerging Young Leaders Programme, Schools Excellence Programme and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Bronze programme. You will also strengthen young people’s influence within We Belong through the Core Group, ensuring that lived experience informs organisational priorities and programme development.

The Context:

Following the landmark Supreme Court judgment in the Tigere case, which helped secure fairer access to higher education for young migrants, We Belong has continued working to ensure that young people can progress into higher education. This has included successful campaigning to increase scholarship opportunities and building strong relationships with educational institutions across the UK.

However, more work is needed. Young migrants can experience significant barriers to educational attainment, further and higher education, employment and personal development because of their immigration status.

These barriers can arise long before a young person reaches the point of applying to university, beginning an apprenticeship or entering employment. We recognise that university is not the only pathway to success and that young people should be supported to explore a range of routes that reflect their ambitions, strengths and circumstances.

Early intervention is therefore essential to ensure that young migrants understand their rights, receive accurate information and appropriate support, and are able to make informed decisions about their education, training, employment and future.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about working with young people, supporting their development and creating pathways for them to achieve their ambitions.

If successful, the applicant will be joining an award-winning youth charity and a staff team dedicated to improving outcomes for young migrants between the ages of 16-25 years old and empowering young people to create change.

About Multibank Scotland

Multibank Scotland tackles poverty and waste by redistributing essential goods to people who need them. We work through a network of charities, community organisations and frontline services to provide families and individuals with items such as clothing, toiletries, bedding, baby products, household goods and other essentials.

We currently operate across Fife, Dundee, Perth and Edinburgh, and are expanding into Glasgow. This is an important period of growth for the organisation, and we are looking for an entrepreneurial, practical and relationship-focused person to help us build lasting partnerships and identify new opportunities for impact.

Role Overview

The Head of Partnerships and Development will lead Multibank Scotland’s partnership and development activity.

This is a senior, outward-facing role for someone who can identify opportunities, make clear and compelling asks, build trust quickly and turn ideas into practical partnerships. We are looking for someone who creates momentum and follows opportunities through, rather than someone focused solely on networking or stakeholder management.

The role will lead the day-to-day development pipeline across corporate partnerships, product supply, strategic relationships, expansion opportunities, funding proposals and supporter stewardship.

A central part of the role will be developing partnerships that increase the volume, quality and range of goods available for redistribution. This will include working with businesses, manufacturers, retailers, logistics providers and other organisations to secure donated goods, services, expertise and in-kind support.

The postholder will also help expand Multibank Scotland’s reach. Working closely with the Chief Executive and the Scotland-wide Operations Manager, they will support the development of new partnerships, satellite sites and delivery models across Scotland.

Fundraising will form part of the role, but it is not primarily a traditional fundraising post. The emphasis is on building strategic partnerships that create long-term value, whether through goods, funding, services, expertise, infrastructure or collaboration.

The Chief Executive will continue to lead on overall strategy, major funder relationships, Board reporting, governance, finance and key organisational decisions. The successful candidate will add senior capacity at an important stage of growth, helping to turn external interest and opportunity into delivery and lasting impact.

How to Apply

To apply for the Partnerships & Fundraising Manager role, please submit:

• A current CV, outlining your relevant experience and career history
• A cover letter (maximum two pages), clearly demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the person specification and why you are interested in the role Applications close: Sunday 16th August 2026 at 5:00pm

Please download the job description for full details. 

Oriau: 0.8CALl (28 awr yr wythnos) | Cyfnod penodol: Blwyddyn o’r penodiad

Cyflog: Gradd D: £33,662 – £39,559 (pro rata)

Dyddiad cau ar gyfer gwneud cais: hanner nos ddydd Sul 23 Awst

Rydym yn chwilio am Uwch Swyddog Polisi Cyhoeddus profiadol i gydlynu ein gwaith cyngor polisi a materion cyhoeddus – gan gyfrannu at gyflawni un o’n pedair prif flaenoriaeth strategol: “Cyfrannu at ddatrysiadau polisi mawr drwy gynnig cyngor annibynnol a galluogi cyfnewid gwybodaeth”. Rydym yn chwilio am rywun sydd â’r brwdfrydedd i ysgogi ein Cymrodyr anhygoel a’n rhanddeiliaid eraill i sicrhau bod ein gwaith yn effeithiol.

Bydd deiliad y rôl hefyd yn gyfrifol am ddarpariaeth Gymraeg a gwaith dwyieithog y Gymdeithas. 

Dyma gyfle cyffrous i rywun sydd eisiau cyfuno gwaith hyblyg â rôl ddiddorol ac amrywiol mewn tîm deinamig. Rydym yn bwriadu cyflogi ar sail cyfnod penodol o flwyddyn (i ddechrau), ac ar sail 0.8CALl, ond yn barod i ystyried rhannu’r swydd.

Mae rhuglder yn y Gymraeg yn ofynnol ar gyfer y swydd hon.

*********************************

Hours: 0.8FTE (28hrs per week) | Fixed term: 1 year from appointment

Salary: Grade D: £33,662 – £39,559 (pro-rata) 

Application deadline: midnight on Sunday 23 August

We are seeking an experienced Senior Public Policy Officer to coordinate our policy advice and public affairs work – contributing to the delivery of one of our four key strategic priorities: “Contribute to major policy solutions by providing independent advice and facilitating knowledge exchange”. We are looking for someone to with the enthusiasm to mobilise our amazing Fellows and other stakeholders to ensure our work delivers impact. 

The role holder will also have responsibility for the Society’s Welsh Language offer and bilingual working.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone looking to combine flexible working with an interesting and varied role in a dynamic team. We are looking to employ on a fixed-term basis for one year (in the first instance), and on a 0.8FTE basis, but will consider job-shares.

Fluency in Welsh is a requirement of this post.

Fixed term 2 years from starting date with potential to extend

Shape services that change lives.

The Limbless Association is seeking a passionate and experienced Services Development Lead to help shape the future of community support for amputees across the UK.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in developing high quality, user-led services that support people through rehabilitation, recovery and life beyond limb loss.

You’ll lead service improvement, impact development and innovation across the organisation, ensuring services remain responsive, inclusive and evidence based.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is passionate about service quality and impact 
• Enjoys turning ideas into meaningful actions and services 
• Can think strategically whilst remaining practical
• Ability to scope and scale 
• Understands the importance of lived experience and co-production 
• Wants to make a genuine difference

If you are motivated by improving lives and developing services with purpose and compassion, we would love to hear from you.

5Rights is seeking to recruit a Junior UK Affairs Officer on a six month fixed term contract, to support the Foundation's advocacy and policy work across the United Kingdom. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual interested in children's rights, politics and the tech industry. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to one of the most important policy challenges of our time - how we ensure the digital world is built with children in mind. They will gain practical experience across policy development, stakeholder engagement, legislative processes and campaigning, playing an active role in projects that are influencing how governments, regulators and industry protect and uphold children's rights online.

About 5Rights

5Rights Foundation exists to ensure a digital world that will serve children and young people today and for future generations.We are a small team of senior professionals and experts delivering change in how the digital world works. We have shifted the narrative and the agenda through provocative comms campaigns (e.g. Twisted Toys), pioneering research (e.g. Pathways) and award-winning tools (e.g. Child Online Safety Toolkit). We continue to drive real-life change thanks to an outstanding track-record of delivering legislation (e.g. Californian Age Appropriate Design Code), policy and regulatory frameworks (e.g. UNCRC General comment No.25), and industry standards (e.g. IEEE 2089).

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyse developments in UK digital policy, online safety, privacy, AI governance, and children's rights.
• Conduct research on parliamentary activity, government consultations, regulatory initiatives, and emerging technology issues.
• Prepare policy briefings, stakeholder summaries, background notes, and advocacy materials.
• Support the drafting of consultation responses, position papers, speeches, and external communications.
• Assist with stakeholder mapping and engagement activities involving policymakers, regulators, civil society organisations, academics, and industry representatives.
• Help coordinate meetings, events, roundtables, and workshops.
• Track media coverage and public discourse related to children's digital rights and online safety.
• Maintain advocacy databases, contact lists, and project documentation.
• Contribute to campaign planning and outreach activities where appropriate.
• Provide administrative and project support to the advocacy and policy team.

Person specification

This is an ideal opportunity for someone at the start of their career who is looking for meaningful work with real-world impact. We are looking for someone with the following attributes:

Essential skills and attributes

• A proactive, enthusiastic problem-solver with a positive, can-do attitude.
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise competing tasks, meet deadlines and consistently follow through.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, accurate and engaging communications for different audiences.
• Sound judgement, professionalism and discretion when handling sensitive information.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Curious, adaptable and eager to learn, with the resilience to thrive in a changeable environment where priorities can change.
• A collaborative team player who can build positive working relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders.
• Confident using Microsoft 365 (including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint) and comfortable learning new digital tools.
• A genuine commitment to the mission and values of 5Rights Foundation and an interest in improving children's experiences in the digital world.

Desirable skills and attributes

• A degree in a relevant discipline, such as public policy, politics, law, social sciences, international relations or communications.
• An interest in technology policy, children's rights, digital regulation or public affairs
• Strong research and analytical skills, including the ability to synthesise complex information into clear, concise briefings.
• An interest in current affairs and confidence monitoring and summarising policy developments.
• Experience (through study, work experience or volunteering) of research, communications, campaigning or stakeholder engagement.
• An enthusiasm for learning and developing within a small, ambitious and collaborative team.
  
  Practical details:
  Location: Remote position in the UK. Ability to travel to London for regular meetings is an advantage. Occasional international travel required.
  Salary: Starting salary of £27,040 per annum pro-rata, with some flexibility for candidates with exceptional skills and experience.
  Contract: 6 months fixed term
  Working hours: Full time (38h week), with occasional accommodation necessary for weekend-engagements and work across time-zones.
  Statutory pension contribution.
  Annual leave: 25 days per annum pro-rata
  Work equipment including a laptop will be provided.
  Starting data: ASAP, depending on notice period.
  Reporting line: Head of UK Affairs, based in UK

Grade: NJC Point 23 - £34,434 per annum

Hours: 37.5 hours per week (excluding a 30-minute break each day)

Days: Monday to Friday (core hours are worked between 8am – 6pm)

Contract: Full-time, 12-month contract (possibility of extension subject to funding)

Responsible to: Grants Manager

Place of work: Based at Salford CVS’ offices in Eccles, Salford, M30 0FN, and in community settings

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join Salford CVS to support our grants and investment programmes.

We are looking to recruit a full-time (37.5 hours per week) Grants Development Worker on a 12-month fixed-term contract.

You will assist the Grants Manager and Grants Co-ordinator in the development and delivery of a large grants and investments programme, aimed at voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations and schools, in excess of £2m per year and largely focused on addressing health inequalities in the city of Salford. The role will be based in both the office and community settings.

To be successful, you will be able to communicate effectively with people from a wide range of backgrounds, from small community groups to large charities, schools and public sector commissioners. This will include tailoring information, advice and guidance to the needs of the VCSE sector.

The Benefits of Working for Salford CVS

• 28 days’ holiday - rising to 30 days (after five years), plus Bank Holidays (pro rata for part-time)
• Enhanced company sick and maternity pay, subject to terms and conditions of service
• Pension scheme - with 7% employer contribution (and 1% mandatory employee contribution)
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Membership of the Hospital Saturday Fund via an employer subsidised scheme (optional and non-contractual)
• RHS family membership (optional and non-contractual)
• Development opportunities - we support and encourage our staff to progress in their careers (including formal training)
• A supportive working culture - we respect and support one another to do the best we can

For further information and to apply, please visit our website via the ‘apply’ button.

Closing date: 9am, Monday 17th August 2026.

Interviews will take place in person at Salford CVS’ offices in Eccles on Thursday 27th August 2026.

Circa £60,000 per annum

Permanent

Part home/Part office (London) based

UNICEF ensures more of the world’s children are vaccinated, educated and protected than any other organisation. We have done more to influence laws and policies to help protect children than anyone else. We get things done. And we’re not going to stop until the world is a safe place for all our children.

This is a great opportunity to join the UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) as

Business Development Lead. The award-winning Corporate Partnerships team secures and manages long-term, multi-million-pound partnerships, with major UK companies including easyJet, Unilever and Accenture. We have ambitious plans for growth, by adding to and growing our portfolio of truly strategic and pioneering shared-value corporate partnerships.

The Business Development function sits within the wider Corporate Partnerships team and is focused on building the new business pipeline, increasing the variety and volume of our partnerships, ensuring all relationships align with business objectives to deliver for the partner and for children. Reporting into the Head of Corporate Partnerships - Business Development, this role leads the team in developing strategic, long-term partnerships with UK-headquartered companies through building a proactive culture to growth. This role includes line management responsibilities, and role-modelling inclusive behaviours and a growth mindset across the wider Corporate Partnerships Team is a core expectation.

To succeed in this role, you will need to be a confident and strategic relationship-builder, with a proven track record of securing or leading complex, high-value partnerships. You’ll bring a proactive approach to new business, combining commercial acumen with creativity to identify compelling shared-value opportunities for UK-headquartered companies. You should be comfortable leading and motivating a team, role-modelling inclusive and collaborative behaviours, and creating an environment where people can perform at their best. The ability to navigate senior stakeholders, prioritise effectively, and maintain momentum across a dynamic pipeline will be essential, as will a genuine passion for UNICEF’s mission and the impact corporate partnerships can achieve for children globally.

Act now and visit the website via the apply button to apply online.

Closing date: 9am, Friday 14 August 2026.

Interview date: First Round Interviews Week Commencing 31 August 2026.

Second Round Interviews Week Commencing 7 September 2026.

In return, we offer:

· excellent pay and benefits (including flexible working, generous annual leave and pension, big brand discounts and wellbeing tools)

· outstanding training and learning opportunities and the support to flourish in your role

· impressive open plan office space and facilities on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

· an open culture and workplace with colleagues who share our values, enjoy their work and are motivated to do their utmost for children.

· the opportunity to work in a leading children’s organisation making a difference to children around the world

Our application process: We use a system called "Applied" that anonymises your responses and focuses on your actual skills that are relevant to this role. This benefits you by giving you a greater chance of expressing your skills in this objective selection process.

We anticipate most colleagues will work one or two days a week in the office on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, East London and the rest of the time from home.  We will happily discuss other flexible options to suit your circumstances.

We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates, disabled candidates, and from men, because we would like to increase the representation of these groups at this level at UNICEF UK. We want to do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for children.

UNICEF UK promotes equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We make employment decisions by matching business needs with skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

We welcome a conversation about your flexible working requirements, personal growth, and promoting a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.

The successful candidate will be required to apply for a criminal records check. A criminal record will not necessarily bar you from working with us. This will depend on the nature of the role and the circumstances of your offences.

We only accept online applications as this saves us money, making more funds available for us to help ensure children’s rights.

If you require support in completing the online form or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the Supporter Care line during office hours.

If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. Please note that we only provide feedback to shortlisted candidates.

Registered Charity Nos. 1072612 (England and Wales) SC043677 (Scotland)

At Ambitious about Autism, we're currently looking for a Business Development Partner to join our team.

You'll support the development of high quality, autism-specific education settings across London and the Southeast. With experience and expertise in project management, you will demonstrate strong leadership skills in galvanising individuals to achieve identified deliverables within agreed timescales and budgets.

You'll be heavily involved in the preparation of high-quality bid submissions, providing account management for external stakeholders. You'll maintain market intelligence plans based upon up-to-date research and data analysis, providing high-level reports to support decision-making for current and future projects including existing business development, new service development, partnerships and merger opportunities.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Relevant qualifications in Programme & Project Management e.g PRINCE 2/APM/CAPM/PMP) or equivalent experience
• Significant experience of effectively managing the end-to-end business development process
• Excellent knowledge of key project processes such as high-level project mapping, design & time management principals
• Successful track record of managing stakeholders and key client relationships

In return, we offer great benefits including a generous holiday allowance and commitment to continued professional development (CPD), flexible, hybrid working and more!

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious individual who would like to work for a forward-thinking, open and honest organisation and make a real impact to the young people we work with. Please find our full recruitment pack on the link below.

If you have any questions about the role or would like to have a confidential chat, please contact James Axford, Recruitment Officer.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

Purpose of the Role

The Director of External Affairs and Growth is an SLT role responsible for leveraging the voice and power of the eoa's network to influence and accelerate the growth of the employee owned sector.

The role leads the eoa’s external affairs, policy and insights, marcomms and events, shaping the external environment for employee ownership and securing the funding and commercial income needed to support sustainable sector growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead external affairs strategy, building the relationships and influence needed to shape policy, remove barriers and expand EO.
• Build strategic relationships and secure grant funding and commercial partnerships, generating income to support advocacy, events and sector growth initiatives, including the UK EO Growth Strategy.
• Oversee our policy and insights work, engaging key stakeholders to co-produce content that influences EO practice and policy and strengthens the eoa’s voice in public affairs.
• Oversee the delivery of a mar-comms strategy that delivers commercial objectives and positions the eoa as the leading authority on EO.
• Oversee our events programmes, ensuring they drive knowledge-sharing, sector development
• and commercial sustainability.
• Represent the eoa at industry forums, policy roundtables and public affairs events,
• championing the employee ownership model.
• Collaborate with the Director of Membership and Operations to align advocacy and external
• engagement with member needs and priorities.
• Lead and develop high-performing teams, fostering innovation and delivering measurable impact across income generation, advocacy, policy, events and mar-comms activities

Knowledge, Experience, and Attributes

• Proven expertise in external affairs, advocacy, or policy leadership, ideally within a business, trade body, or membership association.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with experience influencing government, media, and corporate partners.
• Demonstrated ability to drive sectoral or policy change, leading successful advocacy initiatives.
• Strong commercial acumen, with experience in sponsorship acquisition, revenue generation, grant funding and developing financially sustainable initiatives.
• Exceptional strategic communication and storytelling skills, able to engage and mobilise diverse audiences.
• Experience in event programming, ensuring high engagement and sector impact.
• Passion for employee ownership and economic models that promote shared prosperity.
• Innovative, creative, and proactive in problem-solving and strategy execution.
• A confident and transparent leader who fosters collaboration and inclusivity.
• Self-aware with emotional intelligence, resilience, and integrity.

What Constitutes Success in This Role?

Success in this role means having a positive impact on the growth of the employee-owned sector, strengthening the eoa’s influence and increasing the adoption of “great EO”. Stronger stakeholder relationships, greater advocacy impact and improved commercial sustainability through a diverse mix of grant funding, sponsorships and strategic partnerships will also be key indicators of success.

Key outcomes for the role 

• Outcome - Growth of the employee ownership sector
  • Measure - Increased number of EO businesses, heightened sector awareness

• Outcome - Strengthened corporate engagement
  • Measure - Growth in strategic partnerships, corporate and government engagement

• Outcome - Strong Commercial Sustainability
  • Measure - Increased sponsorship revenue, secured long-term commercial partnerships

• Outcome -Increased policy influence
  • Measure - Policy recommendations adopted, increased government engagement

• Outcome - Enhanced sector insight and intelligence
  • Measure - Utilisation of high quality data and insights for regular sector related content outputs

• Outcome - Development and adoption of best practice
  • Measure - Creation, adoption and promotion of best practice across the EO network.

• Outcome - Successful events programmes
  • Measure - Increased participation, sponsorship growth, positive feedback.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit:

• A two-page CV
• And one of either:
  • Cover letter setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role
  • Video (maximum 10 minutes) setting out your motivation, approach, and what you will bring to the role

Applications should be submitted before 9:00am 17 August 2026. We will close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. If you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Interviews will be in two stages. The first stage will be a virtual interview via teams on
26 August. For those who successfully move to stage 2 there will be an in-person
discussion w.c. 31 August.

The eoa welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those
who are under-represented. We recruit based on values, skills, and contribution to our
purpose.