Policy jobs in bethnal green, greater london

Are you our first Deputy Director?

• Are you passionate about the voices of people with lived experience in campaigns and communications around the asylum and immigration system?
• Are you a diplomat and leader, able to influence and collaborate with a network and partners?
• Do you enjoy being part of a small, dynamic team working with movement leaders, turning your hand to different challenges?
• Can you further build a campaign coalition to equip it to win deep change in the way the UK treats refugees?

About us

The Asylum Reform Initiative (ARI) is an alliance of nine leading national organisations collaborating to secure deep change towards a fair, compassionate and well-managed UK approach to refugees. Central to its strategy has been incubating, launching and backing the broader, public-facing Together With Refugees campaign coalition, now with over 600 national and local member groups from across the refugee sector and beyond. The ARI team provides a dynamic hub that supports Together With Refugees, coordinating the development and delivery of the coalition’s campaign strategy.

About the role

This is a new role. Working closely with the rest of the ARI team, One Strong Voice, and the newly formed Together With Refugees Steering Group, it will play a key part in shaping and delivering the ambitious next phase of the Together With Refugees strategy. The Deputy Director will lead on movement building, strengthening the coalition, and developing the reach, activation levels and effectiveness of the coalition’s grassroots campaign organising to secure changes in policy and practice. At the heart of this is the engagement and leadership of activists with lived experience as refugees, and of member groups that are led by and for refugees – so advancing the goal of a transition to leadership by people with lived experience across the coalition. Key to this work will be building the capacity, effectiveness and impact of the One Strong Voice network to support lived experience campaigners, organisations and leaders at all levels. The Deputy Director will also contribute to wider leadership of the team’s work including fundraising, support for – and accountability to – coalition leadership structures, and effective delivery of the team’s work programme.

About you

The Deputy Director will be a natural collaborator and relationship builder, able to work with diplomacy to drive forward our ambitious strategic aims. You will need ambition, energy and an ability to work at both strategic and more detailed levels. This could be the right opportunity for a range of potential candidates. You could be someone who has led and managed in other issues-based settings, in the asylum and refugee sector, or more broadly. Whatever your background, if you think you have the skills and experience to contribute to our team and take Together With Refugees forward then we’d like to hear from you.

Our commitment to and our strategic aims means that, we warmly invite and encourage applications from people with lived experience of the asylum system, or of forced migration more generally.

How to apply

First, download the candidate information pack; you will also need the application form and the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form (these are all downloads under "Application resources" below). Send the two completed forms with your CV to the email address in the pack.

This exciting new role is perfect for a candidate who is ready to make the role their own, and a self-starter keen to make an immediate impact, through a combination of:

• Supporting the expansion and transformation of our client advice services by ensuring operational service procedures are established, embedded and monitored.
• Exploring, implementing and enabling office and hybrid-working modernisations, including supporting senior members of the operational team to implement business innovations around hybrid-working software, HR systems, and integration of technology (possibly including AI) into our work.
• Alleviating administrative burdens so far as possible on our team delivering advice to clients, helping us to make an even greater impact on our community.
• Contributing to the design and development of robust policies that relate to office and outreach coordination, HR support and budgeting.
• Supporting our supervisory team in their management of people and relevant office administration duties.
• Maintaining and developing office resources, including our office manual, IT equipment, and shared online and offline documents.
• Supporting the trustee board and senior members of the leadership team in the delivery of their strategic goals and day-to-day administration.

Age UK is recruiting for a Regional Estates Manager to provide a professional comprehensive and cost-effective Regional Estate Management Service on all Age UK Properties.

In this role you will use your professional knowledge and experience to undertake significant problem solving and lateral thinking, providing advice to key stakeholders across the charity on complex estate and asset management issues. By ensuring best professional practice is always observed and complying with the RICS Code of Conduct, the successful post-holder will be responsible for assisting with the preparation of departmental budgets, negotiating rent reviews and lease renewals across Age UK's predominantly retail property portfolio and general day to day property management duties.

Whilst you will be home based, please note this role requires travel across our Age UK estate, so there is an expectation you can travel with some overnight stays; a company car will be provided.

The area this role covers will be dependent on the successful candidate's home location.

Please note: This salary includes a market supplement of £4K up to the maximum of £50K (inclusive). This market supplement reflects the current demand for professionals with skills in this area.

Age UK Internal Job Grade- 5N

Must haves:

The below competencies will be assessed at the indicated stage of the recruitment process:
Application = A, Interview = I, Test = T, Presentation = P

• Significant post Chartered experience in either a retail property management department or an estate management department providing professional advice and influencing a range of stakeholders in respect of strategic property management. (A, I)
• Experience of working within a geographically diverse team (I)
• Experience of developing, and reviewing policies, procedures and guidance (I)
• In depth knowledge of Landlord and Tenant statute and Case Law in particular the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 (A, I)
• Self-Motivated, work autonomously yet work as part of and lead a team.
• Good Organisational Skills (I)
• Ability to write concise letters and reports targeted to varying recipients both internally and externally of Age UK (I)
• Good Computer skills including proficiency in the use of excel, database and word (A, I)
• Able to manage multiple projects at all stages (I)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills (I)
• Able to collate, analyse and report relevant management information (I)
• Comfortable with influencing a variety of stakeholders across the organisation. (I)
• Ability to work within a small flexible team of professional/technical staff. (I)
• Sound Knowledge of the Retail property market (A, I)
• Strong negotiating skills (A, I)
• BSc Estate Management degree (A)
• Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (A)

What we offer in return

• Competitive salary, 26 days annual leave + bank holidays + annual leave purchase scheme
• Excellent pension scheme, life assurance, health cashback plan and EAP
• Car Benefit Scheme, Cycle to Work Scheme and Season Ticket Loan
• Techscheme - buy any tech from Apple or Currys, up to £1000, and spread the cost over 12 months, interest free
• Blue Light Card Scheme
• You Did It Awards - recognition awards from £100-250.

Additional Information

Supporting statements and anonymisation
Candidates are expected to provide a supporting statement that explains how they meet the competencies annotated with an ‘A’ in the job description, to assess suitability for the position. Age UK acknowledges and accepts that AI may be used to support the application; we do expect candidates to personalise experience, knowledge and skills and failure to do so, may result in your application being rejected.

CVs will be anonymised by our recruitment system when you apply for a role. Our system is unable to anonymise supporting statements. Please could you remove any personal information including your name before you upload to support our inclusive recruitment process. All equalities monitoring information is also anonymised and not shared with the hiring panel. Your name and address will only be known to us if invited for interview.

Equal opportunities & Disability Confident Scheme
Age UK is an Equal Opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates, regardless of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital/civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity. Age UK is a Disability Confident Scheme employer. Due to high numbers of applications received, Age UK reserves the right to limit the overall number of interviews offered, and therefore, it may not always be practicable or appropriate to interview all disabled people that meet the minimum criteria for the job.

Reasonable adjustments
Disabled job seekers can access reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process. All requests for reasonable adjustments are considered on a case-by-case basis, in collaboration with the disabled job seeker to best meet their needs, by contacting  Disability disclosures will be kept confidential and only shared on a need-to-know basis to support the implementation of adjustments. Disclosures will not be used to inform hiring decisions.

Age UK is able to provide Skilled Worker sponsorship for eligible roles only. If this applies to you, please contact the recruitment team to discuss. If the role is not eligible for Skilled Worker sponsorship you will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK.

Age UK is committed to safeguarding adults at risk, and children, from abuse and neglect. We expect everyone who works with us to share this commitment.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert at any time.

Age UK politely requests no contact from recruitment agencies or media sales. We do not accept speculative CVs from recruitment agencies nor accept the fees associated with them.

For a full list of benefits please see our website.

We are recruiting for Paid Media Specialist to join our team in London; the scope on this job involves….

Job Title: Paid Media Specialist

Location: Homeworking with the requirement to occasionally work at our Head Office (Vauxhall)
Salary: £38,674.05 per annum
Contract type: Full-time, Permanent

Hours: 37.5

Do you have experience managing paid media campaigns at both the strategic and practical delivery level, using your creativity to drive financial giving and advocacy actions?

Are you good at working with others, acting as an organisation’s expert in paid social, programmatic, PPC and display - ensuring campaigns are tracked, paced and optimised for maximum return?

Do you want to use your ‘superpowers’ to make a real change to the lives of women and girls?

If the answer is yes to all the above, then Refuge wants to hear from you!

We’re looking for our next Paid Media Specialist to join our high performing Digital Mobilisation and Engagement team at Refuge. You will be responsible for designing and implementing digital acquisition and paid media strategies that grow our supporter base, increase income and win campaigns. You’ll support teams across the organisation by providing specialist knowledge of digital paid media to improve the overall effectiveness and efficiency of our digital programme. An expert in digital acquisition and advertising, you’ll be experienced at setting up integrated campaigns across paid social, programmatic, PPC and display - ensuring campaigns are tracked and optimised for maximum return. You’ll also bring comprehensive knowledge of digital best practice and regularly stay on top of emerging trends, threats and opportunities.

As Paid Media Specialist, you’ll play a crucial role in facilitating the team’s aim to grow Refuge’s supporter base to half a million engaged supporters over the next three years. You will also work closely with other teams such as Campaigns, Policy and Public Fundraising, enabling our ambition to change attitudes and policies around domestic abuse, and raise funds to support Refuge’s vital work through digital acquisition and mobilisation.

This is a fabulous opportunity to join a fast-paced and energetic team. Refuge offers a variety of exciting opportunities to learn, develop and grow in your career. We recognise the value everyone brings to the organisation to achieve our aims and are dedicated to developing and rewarding our staff. We want kind and empathic people to work at Refuge, who believe in equality, diversity, and inclusion, are experts in their area of knowledge, want to make a positive difference and improve the lives of the women and children we support.

If this sounds like your next role, please apply today.

Closing date: 9am on 12 May 2025

Interview date: 19 May 2025

Benefits

URefuge offers a variety of exciting opportunities to learn, develop and grow in your career. We recognise the value everyone brings to the organisation to achieve our aims and are dedicated to developing and rewarding our staff. More details of our benefits can be found in Job Information Pack.

Goodman Masson are delighted to be partnered with the Black Researcher Consortium to recruit for their Consortium Director on a part time basis (3 days per week with room for growth)

The Black Researcher Consortium is a newly formed community interest company (C.I.C.), designed, developed and built by people with Black heritage, for people with Black heritage. The Consortium objects are to address the systemic underrepresentation of Black researchers across educational institutions, research organisations, government, and industry environments in collaboration with Black researchers, Black-led community initiatives and all those bridging the systemic gap, connecting Black researchers.

As the Consortium Director, you will lead the development of a newly created C.I.C. by working with community stakeholders and the board of directors to develop and implement a strategic vision. You will need to build strong relationships with stakeholders including researchers, community groups, research institutes, universities, industry, government bodies, and funders. The Consortium Director will be responsible for developing a 5-year plan to meet the primary objects of the Consortium: to address the underrepresentation of Black researchers in academic and industry environments.

As BRC's first employee this is a unique opportunity to shape and develop the direction of the organisation. This is a transformative opportunity to build and lead a mission-driven team and organisation dedicated to tackling systemic inequities in research.

Main Responsibilities Include:

• Develop and implement a 5-year strategic plan
• Recruit, develop, and support a team who are committed to the Consortium's mission and values
• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, collaborator organisations, and the wider community
• Identify and secure funding opportunities
• Oversee the organisation's financial health, including budgeting, fundraising, and financial reporting
• Ensure the smooth running of the organisation's operations
• Report directly to the Board of Directors and provide regular updates on strategic objectives

Essentials:

• Experience in mentoring, coaching, or empowering teams to achieve measurable outcomes
• History of managing teams and projects (from initiation to completion), including budget planning and management
• Proven experience developing organisational strategy and business planning
• Demonstrate inclusive leadership by fostering a collaborative environment
• Ability to influence and work closely with a Board/ELT
• Experience of preparing and pitching to funders, collaborators and/or other stakeholders
• An understanding of the broad diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) landscape

Salary range is £65,000 - £75,000 pro rata (depending on experience)

Flexible working arrangements with the option to work from home or hybrid.

Application Process

To apply for the role please submit an updated CV along with your response to the following questions (no more than 300 words per question) to Dan Kelner at Goodman Masson:

Video submissions are accepted as answers to these questions as well. Please do try to limit to around a minute long due to file size restrictions, please send these to also.

• In addressing the underrepresentation of Black researchers, a big part of the role of Consortium Director will be in advocacy. Can you tell us about an experience of developing and conducting advocacy work?
• Culture, community, and collaboration have been key in the background to BRC thus far, can you tell us about a time when you had to work collaboratively with a particular community
• As a brand-new organisation, what challenges do you foresee BRC facing in its first year and over the course of the next five years and how would you propose to address them?
• Please feel free to add any other comments that you think might be useful in understand what you will contribute to the role of Consortium Director

Please note, the deadline for applications is Friday 2^nd May.

There will also be a Q&A session on Thursday evening the 30^th of April Via Microsoft Teams (contact for an invite)

Interview Timelines

• 1^st stage Interviews: 22^nd May
• 2^nd Stage Interviews: 6^th June

In our company values we aim for equity at all stages of the recruitment process, please let us know if we can do anything to make the process more accessible to you.

We are looking for a Finance Officer at Cruse Bereavement Support. You will assist the Finance Team in maintaining accurate financial records of the charity. The work will involve processing sales orders and invoices, customer receipts and credit control. The role also includes completing bank reconciliations, processing expenditure and liaising with suppliers to ensure the account statements are accurate, and preparing accruals and prepayment schedules.  This is a unique opportunity to gain experience at a national charity and help make a difference.

How to apply

Your application must consist of a CV and covering letter, which outlines your suitability for the role with reference to the Job Description and Person Specification and should be no longer than two pages. 

The closing date for applications is 18th May 2025, with interviews taking place from 21st May 2025 via Microsoft Teams.

Please be advised that if you do not hear from us by 21st May 2025, unfortunately on this occasion you have not been shortlisted.

Cruse welcomes and encourages applications from all protected groups as defined by the Equality Act 2010. Appointment will be made on merit.

Criminal Record Checks

All staff are required to complete a Criminal Record check. Staff working directly with clients will be required to complete an enhanced check. We comply with the relevant codes of practice and they can be viewed online: 

· Applicants in England and Wales: DBS Code of Practice

· Applicants in Northern Ireland: AccessNI Code of Practice

Previous convictions will not prevent full consideration of your application to work with Cruse. Our Recruitment of Ex-offenders' Policy & Handling Criminal Record Check Data Policy are available on request by email.

We comply with all relevant data protection legislation and process your data fairly.   

DFN Project SEARCH offer an evidence-based supported internship model which takes place entirely in the workplace.  The programmes provide continuous support to young adults with a learning disability, and autistic people who are aged between 16 – 24 with an Education Health and Care Plan, or equivalent, in their final year of education.

You will be required to identify opportunities to develop and grow DFN Project SEARCH programmes across a geographical area with the aim of supporting the organisation to ensure that as many people as need it have access to DFN Project SEARCH programmes.

In addition, you will be required to develop strategies to ensure that the operational programmes in your area are achieving at least the average outcomes expected for young people in our programmes and so you must be committed to continuous improvement.

You will be specifically required to develop strong partnerships and train and support colleagues within your area. You may also be required to support colleagues promoting DFN Project SEARCH in other areas, further European projects as required and contribute to the development of relevant UK focussed materials.

As a Programme Specialist you will be expected to:

• Demonstrate effective project planning and preparation so that each project delivers achieves the highest quality programme possible and outstanding employment outcomes for the interns.
• Establish effective working relationships with schools, colleges, local authorities, employers and the project professional staff to promote the building of excellent, high quality partnerships at each site to ensure the effective running of programmes and promote sustainability in a volatile environment.
• Take an active part in decision making, planning and audit processes of each project
• Ensure that you implement DFN Project SEARCH policy and have a clear understanding of required quality standards and criteria which constitute effective teaching and learning
   

The Senior Licensing Officer (SLO) will support the Licensing Manager with ensuring charity and network contract compliance, which includes policy management, contract updates, supporting procedures and IT infrastructure, and associated reporting.

The SLO will manage and deliver complex and significant projects to manage risk and ensure adherence and compliance. They will also maintain project deliverables once adopted into business as usual and provide contract and policy support to staff at all levels within the charity.

We are looking for:

• Strong knowledge in policy and/or contract management
• strong knowledgeof end-to-end project management, from development through implementation to evaluation, including project planning, risk management, governance, etc.
• Strong stakeholder management experience, with the ability to influence and build strong relationships at every level internally and externally.
• A quick learner, with the ability to comprehend complicated principles and structures
• Proven ability to interpret and evaluate complex information to identify problems and deliver high quality solutions
• Able to work independently, flexibly, and be pro-active, using initiative to complete project work in a timely manner

How to apply

If you are excited about the prospect of working for the DofE and believe you have the desired skills and experience to make a real success of this role, then we are keen to hear from you.

 If you would like to access the application form in a different format or if would like any assistance that might help improve your experience while completing the application, please contact us.

Applications will close on: Sunday 11th May– Midnight

1st Interviews will take place: WC 19th May (to be held virtually via Teams)

2nd Interview will take place: WC 26th May (to be held virtually via Teams)

​The DofE are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people.   All successful applicants will be required to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service check. (e.g. DBS/PVG or similar), including references covering any gaps of employment/education, confirm eligibility to work in the UK and complete a health check.

**The geographical allowance is based on a member of staff having a home or office-based postcode within 30 miles (as the crow flies) from Charing Cross, WC2N 5HS. The allowance is 7% capped at £4,000 per annum.

Purpose of the job

 We are seeking a highly skilled Communications Manager to lead and deliver strategic communications across all key external audiences. This role is central to driving awareness of the impact of UK Youth’s work, amplifying the voice of young people, and advocating for urgent action to support youth work and organisations across the UK. It is a demanding role, requiring close collaboration with the Head of Brand, Communications & Marketing, CEO, and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to enhance visibility and engagement at the highest levels. 

Key responsibilities

 Strategic Communications & Messaging:

• Develop and execute UK Youth’s external communications strategy to increase awareness, engagement, and advocacy. 

• Craft compelling messaging that effectively communicates the impact of our work, the challenges facing young people, and the importance of youth work. 

• Ensure consistency of messaging across all communication channels and materials. 

 Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Support the Head of Brand, Communications & Marketing in delivering high-profile campaigns and media strategies. 

• Partner with the CEO and SLT to enhance their visibility, providing strategic communications support, speechwriting, and media briefings. 

• Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including policymakers, funders, and media contacts. 

 Media & Public Relations:

• Lead on media engagement, securing press coverage that highlights UK Youth’s impact and advocacy efforts. 

• Draft press releases, opinion pieces, and statements that position UK Youth as a leading voice in the youth sector. 

• Manage reactive and crisis communications, ensuring UK Youth’s reputation is protected and strengthened. 

 Campaigns & Content Development:

• Develop and oversee the production of high-impact content, including reports, blogs, speeches, and social media materials. 

• Lead on storytelling initiatives that amplify young people’s voices and highlight the real-world impact of UK Youth’s work. 

• Work collaboratively with the marketing team to align messaging across digital and traditional channels. 

 Advocacy & Influence

• Ensure UK Youth’s communications support and enhance policy and advocacy work. 

• Develop materials that translate complex policy issues into compelling, accessible messages. 

• Support campaigns that mobilise public and stakeholder support for greater investment in youth work. 

Experience

• Proven track record in strategic communications, public relations, or media engagement, preferably within the charity, public, or advocacy sectors.

• Experience managing high-profile campaigns that drive awareness, engagement, and action.

• Strong background in stakeholder engagement, including working with policymakers, funders, media, and senior leadership teams.

• Experience developing and delivering crisis communication strategies.

• Knowledge of the youth sector, social justice issues, or non-profit communications is highly desirable.

Who we are

UK Youth is a leading charity that exists to ensure all young people are equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives. We work with others to ensure that the youth sector is strengthened, supported, and that provision is youth-led, evidence-informed and delivers high-quality outcomes.

UK Youth plays a unique role in addressing; the lack of investment in the youth sector, the lack of cross sector understanding in how youth work makes a difference and the limited opportunities to embed effective solutions. These factors lead to mass inequality of access to youth services for young people. To find more about us and how we make an impact, please visit UK Youth Website.

Why work at UK Youth?

 UK Youth is a leading charity that exists to ensure all young people are equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives. We have influence as a sector-supporting infrastructure body, a direct delivery partner and a campaigner for social change. As outlined in our 2025 #unlockingyouthwork strategy, we believe youth work is a catalyst for change that young people need now more than ever. We play a unique role in addressing; the lack of investment into the youth sector, the lack of cross-sector understanding of how youth work makes a difference and the limited opportunities to embed effective solutions.

 We are building a movement of change; galvanising likeminded individuals, organisations, government, and businesses from all sectors, to work together and deliver system change for all young people. Together we will create a society that understands, champions, and delivers effective youth work for all.

What we can offer you

We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance, excellent learning and development opportunities and vibrant organisational culture:

• Flexible/Agile Working

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)

• Funded training provided in; Safeguarding, GDPR, Information and Cyber Security & Equality & Diversity

• Other training available in support of your personal and professional development

• Pension scheme (currently UK Youth match employee contributions up to 5%)

• Membership of our life insurance scheme which would pay-out up to 4 times your salary

• Employee Assistance Programme to support employees both professionally and personally

• 20% discount off bookings at Avon Tyrrell, our New Forest Outdoor Centre, including camping, lodges and outdoor activities.

• IT equipment provided for the duration of contract

• CycleScheme and TechScheme

How to apply

If you would like to be considered for this fantastic opportunity, please complete an application via our completely anonymised recruitment system provided by Applied which looks to create a fair and unbiased application process for all. Scroll to the top of the page and start your application.

Closing date: Wednesday 14th May at 11:59PM (midnight)

Provisional Interview Date: TBC 

As this role involves working in a regulated environment with young people, any offer will be conditional to satisfactory background checks, which include criminal record check and employment reference.

Bring your charismatic drive and passion for environmental issues to lead CPRE London towards its vision and manage its strategic direction and delivery. This is a rare opportunity to lead an organisation at the cutting edge of policy regarding green spaces and the environment, housing and planning. You will manage a small but motivated team of staff and dedicated volunteers. We are looking for candidates with the confidence to pitch for new funding, coupled with achievements in lobbying and liaison work across the environmental space.

CPRE London is a leading environmental charity in the capital, an independent charity and the London regional branch (1 of 42) of the national CPRE organisation, ‘The Countryside Charity’.

The focus of our campaigning is to make London a well-planned, greener, climate-resilient and nature rich city, which benefits everyone.

Skills in leadership, communication, negotiation, and project management are needed to run our operations. In addition to leading CPRE London you will run our London-based urban projects with allies in the environmental sector.  You will also work closely with a supportive board of trustees. 

Currently at the exciting stage of developing the London Tree Ring project, additionally we are involved in many more initiatives such as Healthy Streets Scorecard and GoParks London.

Centre for Mental Health is an established independent mental health research charity which for forty years has taken the lead in challenging policies, systems and society, so that everyone can have better mental health.

You will lead a team developing mental health research, economic analysis and policy ideas, as we equip services and decision makers to meet people’s needs and reduce mental health disparities.

Join us in our work driving forward sustainable policy change, tackling inequalities and working tirelessly for social justice and good mental health for all.

We seek an Advice Coordinator and IAA supervisor IAA L2 (IAA L3 desirable), or solicitor with equivalent qualifications for an exciting position leading partnership projects with Shelter, London Youth Gateway, and the East London Foundation Trust Mental Health Services.  The post holder will manage and supervise a team of IAA level 1 and 2 immigration advisors providing specialist immigration advice and casework to migrants at risk in London. You will play a key role in coordinating service delivery, including advice drop-ins and outreach visits in mental health settings.

Praxis is a dynamic, award-winning human rights charity supporting migrants in crisis or at-risk, ensuring that their essential human needs are met and that they are able to overcome the barriers they face. We work to build community, challenge exclusion and discrimination, influence policy and improve services. We advocate and campaign for lasting changes to policy and practice to address the root causes of the issues faced by at-risk migrants.

We are a progressive organisation, committed to an inclusive workplace which reflects our values and the society we want to live in.

We recognise that how you feel about your work is impacted by what is happening in your life outside of work. As a result, we offer generous family leave policies, with equal parental leave, flexible and hybrid working, and enhanced annual leave through our Life Happens and Religious and Reflective Leave policies. We take care of our staff by thinking about their health and wellbeing and offer reflective practice, a Menstrual Champion and a range of policies to support people at work.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from candidates with lived experience of the migration system or who have experienced homelessness.

Having a criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify you from this role. We believe in second chances and assess each application on individual merit. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of background.

Our Attractive Benefits Package Includes 

· Culture of flexible and hybrid working (where appropriate)

· 25 days annual leave increasing to 30 with service (plus paid Bank Holidays)

· Equal parental leave (incl. 26 weeks on full pay, eligible after 1 year in post)

· Religious/reflective leave, life happens leave and menstrual leave

· Reflective practice for all frontline roles

· Employee Assistance Programme offers counselling and support 24/7

· Workplace Pension Scheme and Life Assurance (1x annual salary)

· Financial wellbeing support, including payroll savings, signposted advice and hardship loans

If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email our Recruitment team who will contact you to discuss how we can help.

For more information you can contact Daniel Ashwell 

To apply, send us your CV and cover letter demonstrating your capabilities in relation to each of the points of the job description marked ‘A’. Where relevant use your answers to illustrate how your competencies have helped you to achieve positive results. This will give you the best possible chance to be shortlisted. Applications will only be accepted with a cover letter.

RLS Caseworker / Solicitor

As a RLS Caseworker / Solicitor you will conduct a small strategic caseload of asylum and refugee family reunion cases and assist on litigation (where eligible) under our legal aid contract to push for better decision-making, secure results for individuals and pursue improvements in the relevant law, policy and practices. 

You will also act as the supervising caseworker/lawyer for the Afghan Pro Bono Initiative (APBI), which is a specialist casework project delivered by RLS with funding and pro bono assistance from 11 leading commercial law firms. As part of this role, you will supervise pro bono lawyers to provide high quality legal representation for Afghans on matters including family reunion, the ARAP scheme, the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme and others. The project is now in its 3rd year and won the Most Effective Pro Bono Partnership Award at the Law Works Pro Bono Awards in 2022 as well as being nominated and commended for numerous other awards in 2022 and 2023. Please note that RLS recognise that pro bono legal work is always an adjunct to, and not a substitute for, an adequate system of publicly funded legal services. 

Key responsibilities

• Have conduct of a small strategic caseload and provide high quality legal advice and representation to clients
• Supervise the work of volunteer pro bono commercial lawyers on cases
• Deliver training to pro bono commercial lawyers
• Ensure that all legal work is promptly and accurate recorded on RLS’s case management system and keep relevant time recording
• Develop and disseminate relevant information on legal developments in this area for relevant stakeholders, including both the Afghan Community and building the capacity of other practitioners
• Work in close collaboration with the other project Lawyer/s to develop and share experiences and best practice in relation to all aspects of casework (legal, evidential and procedural) and relevant internal processes
• Work in close collaboration with the Legal Director and Casework Supervisorto ensure that appropriate steps to achieve the aims and objectives of the project are taken, including ensuring that relevant data is obtained and assisting with the timely completion of the project Operational Plan/s
• Work in close collaboration with the APBI Coordinator to contribute to the production of materials such as project periodic reports, information on emerging and strategic issues in relation to ‘safe’ routes for use in advocacy, content for newsletters, social media posts and articles to raise awareness of the project and its aims and outputs
• Participate in, and contribute to, RLS’s monitoring, evaluation and learning framework
• Be an active member of the RLS team participating in team meetings at both the UK and International level: engaging in a collegiate and collaborative environment that includes participating in the development of a new and exciting legal organisation
• Work in close collaboration with the Community Engagement and Research Lead to contribute to the production of information sheets and other materials to disseminate to the Afghan community/ies
• Maintain accurate and confidential records in line with GDPR
• Adhere to RLS safeguarding policies and procedures at all times. 

Person specification: 

Essential

• Be either a member of the Bar, a solicitor and accredited to IAAS Senior caseworker level, accredited to IAAS Senior caseworker level, or OISC accredited to Level 3
• Experience of asylum casework
• Experience of refugee family reunion procedures and applications, including applications outside of the Immigration Rules reliant on Article 8 ECHR and other human rights provisions
• Experience of online immigration applications
• Demonstrable knowledge of legal aid provision and ECF applications
• Experience of and commitment to working in a collaborative way on legal cases
• Good verbal and written communication skills in English
• Strong organisational skills, including the ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines
• Strong attention to detail, responsiveness, reliability and dependability
• Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills and an ability to deal professionally and collaboratively with both legal and not-for-profit stakeholders
• Computer literacy
• Right to reside and work in the UK
• Enjoy working with a small team in a flexible and fast-paced environment, as well as being an independent self-starter able to work with a high degree of autonomy
• Have a strong commitment to upholding the human rights of asylum seekers, migrants, and refugees
• Commitment to the aims of the project and the values of RLS
• The successful candidate will be required to obtain an enhanced DBS certificate (we cover the cost). However, a criminal record is not a barrier to the role. 

Desirable

• Demonstrable supervision experience strongly preferred
• Those with lived experience of navigating immigration systems are strongly encouraged to apply and will be favourably considered
• Experience of legal aid casework
• Experience of conducting immigration appeals and/or public law litigation
• Experience of supervising commercial lawyers in a pro bono project setting
• Experience of preparing and delivering training

Role Purpose

The Operations Director is a critical leadership role responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective running of all operational aspects of Katherine Low Settlement. This role oversees the day-to-day operational leadership of the charity, ensuring that its systems, processes, and teams are aligned with strategic objectives and compliant with relevant legislation.

This position will lead on programme delivery, financial management, human resources, IT infrastructure, risk and compliance, governance, and facilities management, ensuring that the organisation operates smoothly and sustainably. The post-holder will act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), embedding a strong safeguarding culture across the organisation, and also be responsible for policy development and culture and wellbeing. 

As a key member of the senior leadership team, the Operations Director will work closely with the CEO, Board of Trustees, funders, partners, and staff to drive organisational effectiveness and ensure that the charity can continue delivering high-impact work.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Organisational Strategy

• Provide strategic leadership for all operational functions, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s mission and strategic objectives.
• Develop and implement efficient systems, processes, and policies to improve operational effectiveness.
• Work closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees to ensure that the charity is resilient, agile, and positioned for sustainable growth.
• Oversee cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring that operations support and enhance programme delivery.
• Lead on operational planning, resource allocation, and impact measurement.

Programme Delivery & Impact

• Ensure all programmes and services are effectively designed, resourced, and evaluated to achieve the best outcomes.
• Lead on the development of monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) frameworks to track programme impact and efficiency.
• Work with programme teams to ensure services are inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the needs of beneficiaries.
• Identify and mitigate operational risks that could affect programme delivery.

Financial & Resource Management

• Oversee financial planning, budgeting, and management in partnership with the Finance Team and CEO.
• Ensure financial policies, processes, and controls are in place and adhered to.
• Work with the fundraising team to ensure grant and contract funding is effectively managed and reported.
• Ensure long-term financial sustainability through effective resource allocation and cost efficiency.
• Support the development of business models, funding strategies, and income diversification.

Safeguarding & Risk Management - Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

• As the Designated Safeguarding Lead (a role delegated by the Chief Executive), ensure robust safeguarding policies, procedures, and practices are in place.
• Provide training and guidance to staff on safeguarding responsibilities and best practices.
• Oversee the Deputy Safeguarding Leads, acting as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns from them, ensuring they are appropriately reported and addressed.
• Embed a strong safeguarding culture, ensuring that all programmes and services prioritise the safety and wellbeing of beneficiaries.

Human Resources, People Management & Wellbeing

• Lead the HR function, ensuring best practices in recruitment, retention, staff development, and performance management.
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), embedding a culture of fairness and opportunity for all.
• Develop and implement HR policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with employment law and best practice.
• Promote staff wellbeing, fostering a positive and supportive working environment.
• Line manage operational staff, providing leadership, mentoring, and professional development opportunities.

IT Infrastructure, Systems & Data Management

• Oversee the organisation’s IT strategy, ensuring systems and processes are secure, efficient, and fit for purpose.
• Lead on the implementation and management of Salesforce (or another complex CRM system), ensuring data integrity and effective reporting.
• Ensure cybersecurity, data protection, and GDPR compliance, embedding best practices across the organisation.
• Identify and implement digital solutions to enhance operational effectiveness.

Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and ethical standards, including charity governance, employment law, and safeguarding.
• Work closely with the Board of Trustees, providing reports and operational insights to support decision-making.
• Develop and maintain an effective risk management framework, ensuring risks are identified, assessed, and mitigated.
• Oversee all policy development, ensuring policies are up to date, legally compliant, and well-embedded across the organisation.

Facilities & Office Management

• Oversee the management of charity premises, assets, and office operations.
• Ensure facilities are safe, secure, and compliant with health and safety regulations.
• Lead on business continuity planning and disaster recovery strategies.

Person Specification

Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven experience in a senior operational leadership role, ideally within the charity or non-profit sector.
• Strong understanding of programme management, financial oversight, HR, IT, and governance.
• Demonstrable experience of managing budgets using complex Excel spreadsheets.
• Experience with Salesforce or another complex CRM system, including implementation, reporting, and data management.
• Demonstrable experience in people management, of multi-level and departmental teams, with the ability to lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding best practices, with experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead
• Strong policy development and implementation skills, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.
• Experience in culture and wellbeing initiatives, fostering a positive workplace environment.
• Experience working with Boards of Trustees and governance structures.
• Excellent risk management, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with proven experience of building relationships with funders, partners, and regulatory bodies.

Desirable Experience & Skills

• Experience in charity fundraising operations.
• Knowledge of GDPR, data protection, and cybersecurity best practices.
• Understanding of health and safety, facilities management.

Personal Attributes

• A strategic thinker who can balance day-to-day operations with long-term vision.
• A collaborative leader who values teamwork and inclusivity.
• A proactive problem solver, able to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• A strong commitment to the values and mission of the Katherine Low Settlement.

Further Information 

·Katherine Low Settlement is committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

·All offers to work at Katherine Low Settlement are subject to satisfactory references, which is standard KLS policy applicable to all roles. KLS also ask for an enhanced DBS (formerly known as CRB) check 

·You will adhere to matters of confidentiality concerning this role and the KLS team

The above job description reflects the position at the time of writing; it is not intended to be a task list but indicates the general level of work involved. It is expected that duties will be reviewed and revised as required.