Policy research officer jobs in dartford, greater london

Impatience Earth is a non-profit climate philanthropy consultancy founded in 2020 with a mission to educate, challenge and inspire wealth holders to take bolder funding decisions to address the climate emergency.

For the first time, we will be undertaking work to focus specifically on climate resilience in the UK. Currently this work sits with two existing team members, and a network of Associates and advisors. We are hiring a new team member to support this work on a fixed-term contract running from 2026-2027. 

Why UK resilience? We can see the impacts of climate change in the UK are rapidly increasing  - from direct impacts such as extreme heat, flooding and heavy rainfall, to direct knock-on effects such as increasing food prices. What is often hidden is the social, economic and racial injustice at the core of climate vulnerability in the UK. The people who are disproportionately impacted by climate change are also most likely to be excluded from the process to address it. This includes women and girls living  at the intersections of poverty, disability and race who remain overlooked by climate policy and interventions, even though the inclusion of women in environmental decision-making processes has been shown to have a positive impact on their outcomes.

Climate change is occurring at the same time as trust in British society, democracy and politics is collapsing. As recent research from Climate Outreach shows, voters in the UK feel overlooked, disillusioned about the present and fearful for the future, and many are yet to be convinced that net zero offers a positive way forward. 

Yet research also shows that the majority of the public do care about climate change and protecting nature, and we know from our work that there are individuals and groups across the UK who are taking action to create a more resilient future - often on a shoestring budget. When Impatience Earth convened funders around the topic of climate resilience in the UK, we had a lot of interest. We also heard that a common challenge is identifying resilience-building work to fund. A recurring question was ‘resilience-building work: how do we know it when we see it?”

This new role at Impatience Earth is designed to help us answer two key questions: 

1. How do we use our position and bird's-eye view of the philanthropy ecosystem to make climate philanthropy work more effectively for marginalised communities in the UK and withstand political headwinds?

2. How do we build the ecosystem for gender just climate action in the UK?

To answer these, it will be important to work in partnership and collaboration with other UK philanthropic support organisations (such as the Environmental Funders Network); help build bridges between the different organisations and groups doing this work across the UK; and shine a light on the opportunities for funders and policy-makers to support climate action that builds the resilience of the people who are most affected, but often overlooked. This role is an exciting opportunity to increase awareness and action in the philanthropic sector around the different dimensions of climate risk in the UK, especially as a result of gender inequity, poverty and other intersecting forms of marginalisation. 

About Impatience Earth

Impatience Earth is a non-profit climate philanthropy consultancy with a mission to educate, challenge and inspire wealth holders to take bolder funding decisions to address the climate emergency. Since 2020, IE has catalysed over £250 million in new philanthropic funding for climate action around the world, of which over £90 million has already been disbursed to impactful organisations working to mitigate climate change and build the resilience of communities in the face of increasing climate risk.

With a core focus on climate justice, Impatience Earth explores with funders how they can effectively resource and partner with the leaders and communities on the frontline of climate actions who are often overlooked and underfunded by mainstream climate philanthropy. Impatience Earth’s portfolio of work in the UK is increasingly focused on how funders can build the power of local communities to increase their resilience against increasing climate impacts - such as extreme weather events - that also exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. 

Requirements for this role

1. You live and are legally able to work in the UK (unfortunately we are unable to sponsor UK work visas)

2. You have a good understanding of the way that climate change will intersect with different forms of oppression and vulnerability in the UK, particularly gender but also: racism, poverty and class inequality, disability, discrimination due to sexual orientation, faith, migration status and other factors.

3. You have a good understanding of the ways that climate change is already impacting communities in the UK, as well as solutions relating to resilience-building.

4. You have a good understanding, likely through your own lived experience, of the difference in economic opportunities and investment beyond London and across the different parts of the UK. 

5. You have a demonstrated ability to build trusted working relationships with a range of stakeholders, which might include: community-based organisations, philanthropic foundations and local authorities. 

6. You are respectful of people with different backgrounds, cultures, faiths and lived experiences. 

7. You are curious and a good listener. 

8. You are highly organised and motivated to work in a fast-paced organisation. 

9. You enjoy working in-person with different stakeholders, and you’re happy to travel to other parts of the UK when required to attend in-person meetings, events and represent Impatience Earth (travel expenses will be covered).

10. You can lead, and contribute to, research and written reports that can be shared with funders and external audiences. 

11. You are highly competent with online working and online collaboration including: email, Zoom conferencing, and online documentation.

Day-to-Day Activities 

Whilst this work is still being developed, and you will have an opportunity to shape it, the day-to-day activities will likely include the following. 

Strategy

• Support the development of Impatience Earth’s UK resilience strategy, by reviewing existing plans and providing feedback and suggestions.

• Throughout this role, share learnings and feedback with the Impatience Earth team, Associates and other stakeholders, aiming to ‘work in the open’.

• Help Impatience Earth to recruit and work with a group of advisors.

Relationship building and new collaborations

• Connect with the UK organisations and individuals that Impatience Earth has already built relationships with, identify opportunities to collaborate, and take plans forward. This could include convening a roundtable or co-designing an event.

• Make new connections with individuals and organisations outside of Impatience Earth’s existing network who are working to build the resilience of communities across the UK. This could be through attending conferences, community events, or cold outreach and calls. 

• Build bridges between organisations and funders working across different themes (such as climate and gender) to strengthen the ecosystem on intersectional climate resilience. 

• Develop and maintain excellent external relationships, always acting as an ambassador for Impatience Earth, to help build our reputation and profile.

• Manage the planning and execution of events, including developing an agenda, giving presentations, facilitating group discussions, and providing logistical support. 

Research and writing

• Support Impatience Earth to develop a taxonomy for gender-just climate resilience in the UK, that will later be shared with funders and other external stakeholders.

• Work with other team members  to conduct research and mapping that can form the basis of recommendations for funders.

• Draft high-quality written reports, blogs, presentations and other online materials on the topic of intersectional, gender-just climate resilience.
   

Internal knowledge management and communication

• Communicate across the Impatience Earth team, with colleagues working in different parts of the world, to share information and cross-check opportunities. As a remote team, our work is made possible by internal knowledge management and communication. This will include:

  • Timely writing up of notes and actions from meetings you attend and saving on our Google Drive

  • Sharing time-sensitive insights and opportunities with the team on Slack

  • Joining weekly online team meetings

Benefits

As part of this role, you will have a pro rata allowance of 25 days paid annual leave, individual coaching, a professional development budget and be part of a passionate team committed to advancing climate action. We have taken a range of steps to build an inclusive and welcoming work culture and we hope we will receive applications from people from a range of backgrounds.

How To Apply

We are not able to sponsor visas unfortunately and are not doing calls with candidates in advance of applications. 

We are committed to inclusive recruitment. If you have any access requirements or need reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know so we can discuss how to support you.

Stage 1: Submit your CV plus either a cover letter (1.5 pages max), or a short video, that includes details about your relevant experience for the role and why you think you’ll be a good fit. Please consider the Requirements for this role section when you write your cover letter/record your video, particularly points 2-5. Please submit documents in PDF format as we are unable to open MS Word files.
 

Stage 2: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an initial video interview carried out via Zoom to discuss your experience and what excites you about the role. We will send all candidates the interview questions in advance.

Stage 3: You will be asked to complete a short assignment at a time that suits you. At this stage in the process, we will offer candidates a £50 stipend to cover the time invested in this exercise.

Stage 4: As part of the final interview stage, you’ll be invited to a full interview and we will be sending all candidates the interview questions in advance. At this stage in the process, we will offer candidates an additional £50 stipend to cover the time invested in preparing for interview.

Who You Will Meet

As part of the interview process, you will meet our CEO Yasmin Ahammad, Director Sarah Farrell and People and Wellbeing Director, Heather Salmon. For more information, see our website impatience.earth.

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

Are you passionate about supporting young asylum-seekers and refugees to make change happen? Do you understand campaigning and how to achieve change in the British political system? You could be our new Campaigning Youthworker! 

About Young Roots 

At Young Roots, we want to see a compassionate and welcoming society for young refugees and asylum seekers in the UK. We work alongside young people seeking safety in the UK, building trusted relationships, providing practical and emotional support and promoting young people’s rights and power.  

About the role 

The Campaigning Youth Worker (CPW) will work with young people who are seeking asylum or who are refugees in London to support them to seek change to laws and policies on the issues that matter to them. This role will be located in Croydon and King’s Cross, with regular attendance at our service delivery venues across London as required, including one evening activity per week. 

The role will involve building relationships with young people who attend Young Roots activities and through outreach, having ongoing conversations about the issues that young people say matter to them, working with young people to understand how change to laws and policies happens and supporting young people to take campaigning action to achieve that change.

Please see the job description and person specification for full details. 

Young Roots and recruitment 

Young Roots recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equity and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who can face disadvantage in employment, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities. As an organisation that supports refugees, asylum seekers and migrants, we particularly welcome applications from people within these communities. We offer a guaranteed interview for those with lived experience of the asylum system and those with disabilities, where they meet the essential elements of the person specification.

If aspects of the application process create barriers to you applying and you’d like any adjustment to the process or you’d like an informal discussion or advice on your application, please get in touch. We would also like to alert you to the existence of organisations which supporting people from under-represented groups to access employment, who can advise you on applying for this role. For example, Scope, Young Women’s Trust and Experts by Experience. 

Young Roots is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. We take this duty very seriously. 

Our work is underpinned by policies and procedures which promote safe working practices. We have a framework of training and supervision which everyone is expected to comply with and systems for monitoring, quality assurance and gaining service user feedback. On joining you will be expected to be part of this approach to safeguard our service users. 

All posts are subject to a safer recruitment process which includes vetting checks such as enhanced criminal records and barring, scrutiny of employment history, references and other checks. 

To apply 

To apply, please submit your CV alongside a personal statement by the closing date outlining how you would be a great fit for the role. 

Your personal statement should be no more than 800 words, answering the following questions: 

1. What is your motivation for working with Young Roots? 

2. What is your motivation for applying for this role specifically? 

3. What skills and experience would you bring that will enable you to be successful in this role?Please ensure you refer to the essential criteria on the person specification and provide examples to demonstrate how and where you meet the criteria. Your skills and experience could be gained through work, community involvement, or personal and family experiences. 

Please submit your application via Charity Jobs. 

No agencies, please. 

Closing date: 10am on Monday 5 January 2026 

Interview date: 19 or 20 January (you will be able to indicate a preference if you are shortlisted). Successful applicants will then have a second interview round - a young person panel on the evening of Thursday 22 January at our Brent project. 

Join a movement transforming how communities create lasting change. This isn't a typical charity role—it's a chance to shape the future of place-based working across the UK and help lead a growing organisation.

Place Matters is a small, entrepreneurial charity punching above its weight. We work at the intersection of communities, public services, funders, and policymakers to tackle the root causes of inequality and create changes that communities want to see. Our approach? Empower communities to lead change in their own places, learn from what works, and influence the systems that hold them back.

Why this role matters

This is a senior position on our Executive team, reporting directly to a co-CEO. You'll play a leadership role in developing our organisation—shaping strategy, building our team, and deepening partnerships. We're looking for someone colleagues and Trustees trust to make sound decisions on behalf of our mission.

Learning and practice development is at the heart of everything we do. You'll design and lead learning partnerships that build the capabilities of communities and organisations to work differently. You'll capture insights from the ground and turn them into accessible tools, frameworks, and resources that make place-based working more effective for everyone.

You need to be a team player, confident and with strong opinions, but low ego and collegiate

What you'll do

• Lead the development and delivery of Learning and Practice Development Partnerships
• Initiate, convene and participate in ‘field-building’ efforts that aim to influence the broader place-based change sector, bringing together community organisations, public sector organisations, policy makers, foundations and businesses to build broader support for community centred place-based change
• Develop Place Matters thought and practice leadership
• Draw together the themes and patterns from learning into regular blogs and publications to make the learning as widely accessible as possible and influence key policy makers and funders
• Initiate and convene field-building efforts to influence the broader place-based change sector
• Build a wide network of place-based practitioners from all sectors
• Play a key role in business development, securing new partnerships, fundraising, and improving organisational efficiency

See job description (JD) for full details

What makes this role special

• Executive leadership: Part of the leadership team shaping organisational direction
• Real autonomy: Lead your own projects, design new partnerships, represent Place Matters externally
• Learning culture: We practice what we preach—continuous learning and innovation are built in
• Flexible working: Hybrid arrangement, negotiable location, with UK travel (up to 50 days annually)
• Competitive salary: £65,000-£75,000 (negotiable based on experience)

Practical details

Ideally 37.5 hours per week (flexible) but we'll consider part-time. UK travel required, including occasional overnight stays and some evening/weekend work.

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from disabled people and people from diverse backgrounds.

We'll conduct interviews on 19th and 21st January.

Location: Hybrid – London office and home
Contract: Permanent, full time
Reporting to: Chief Executive
Working pattern: Four-day week

About Spinal Research

Every two hours, someone in the UK becomes paralysed. Globally, more than 15 million people live with paralysis. At Spinal Research, our vision is a world where paralysis can be cured. We fund groundbreaking research to deliver life-changing treatments for people with spinal cord injuries. By backing the brightest minds and fostering innovation, we are driving progress towards what could be the medical breakthrough of the 21st century: curing paralysis. We will not stop until that future is achieved.

The Role

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as Head of Strategy and Operations. This pivotal role ensures Spinal Research is efficient, resilient, and future-focused. You will work closely with the Chief Executive, board, and senior colleagues to deliver organisational strategy, oversee operations, finance, HR, and systems, and help position the charity for growth and impact.

You will bring people, processes, and data together to maximise effectiveness, empower teams, strengthen cross-department collaboration, and champion innovation—including the use of AI and technology—to help us deliver our mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Shape and deliver organisational strategy, project development, and workforce planning as part of the Senior Leadership Team.
• Act as a key point of contact for the board on operational matters.
• Build alignment between research, fundraising, community engagement, and operations.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficient and consistent processes across teams.
• Lead on HR, recruitment, staff wellbeing, safeguarding, health & safety, and cyber security.
• Ensure robust financial management, reporting, and compliance.
• Develop and implement policies, systems, and processes to support organisational resilience.
• Act as Data Protection Officer, ensuring compliance with data protection laws and championing data-driven decision-making.
• Lead change management initiatives and explore AI tools and technologies to enhance efficiency.
• Line-manage staff and partners in operations, finance, HR, and data.
• Promote internal career progression, training, and succession planning.
• Be a visible advocate for Spinal Research’s mission and support new initiatives, partnerships, and fundraising activities.

The Kind of Person We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a strategic, collaborative, and innovative leader who thrives in a mission-driven environment. The ideal candidate will be passionate about making a difference, with a proven ability to drive organisational effectiveness and lead teams through change.

Experience and Skills

• Senior Leadership: Significant experience in a senior operational, strategy, or general management role, ideally within the charity, health, research, or not-for-profit sectors.
• Strategic Thinking: Demonstrated ability to shape and deliver organisational strategy, manage complex projects, and align cross-functional teams.
• Operational Excellence: Strong track record overseeing day-to-day operations, including HR, finance, compliance, and systems development.
• Change Management: Experience leading change initiatives, with the ability to engage and support teams through transitions.
• Data and Technology: Comfortable championing data-driven decision-making and integrating new technologies (such as AI tools and platforms like Salesforce) to enhance organisational performance.
• People Leadership: Skilled at empowering, developing, and line-managing diverse teams and partners, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, able to build relationships with internal and external stakeholders, and act as a credible advocate for the organisation’s mission.
• Values-Driven: Committed to upholding Spinal Research’s values of commitment, integrity, collaboration, and innovation in all aspects of work.

Personal Attributes

• Proactive, resilient, and adaptable, with a growth mindset.
• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Passionate about making a positive impact for people affected by spinal cord injury.

Working Arrangements

• Hybrid role split between home and our London Bridge office.
• Spinal Research is a four-day week employer
• Part of a supportive, values-driven team (commitment, integrity, collaboration, innovation).
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to support organisational priorities.

Ready to help us deliver life-changing impact?
Apply now to join Spinal Research and play a key role in our mission to cure paralysis.

Asylum Justice is the only charity in Wales - and one of very few in the UK - providing free legal advice and representation to people seeking asylum, refugees, and other migrants who are excluded from legal aid. Every day, we help people navigate a hostile system, challenge injustice, and secure safety for themselves and their families.

Demand for our services is higher than ever. In the past year alone, our caseload increased by nearly 50%, and we've taken on more complex, urgent cases - including supporting unaccompanied asylum-seeking children and people at immediate risk of destitution or deportation.

We’re now looking for a Funding Officer to join our small, committed team and help secure the resources we need to sustain and grow our work. This is a chance to make a tangible difference - not just in helping us meet income targets, but in strengthening access to justice for some of the most marginalised people in Wales.

The role is hybrid working (Cardiff office and remote working) but fully remote working may also be considered. We are open to compressed hours or part-time working (minimum 28 hours) for the right candidate. We also welcome applications from people interested in a job share arrangement.

About the role

This is a hands-on, varied role that combines fundraising, relationship management, and impact storytelling. You’ll work closely with our Legal Director and wider team to:

• Research and identify funding opportunities from trusts, foundations, and statutory sources
• Write compelling funding bids and reports that reflect our impact and values
• Maintain excellent relationships with funders and support project coordination with delivery partners
• Coordinate grant reporting and keep accurate records of income, spend, and deadlines
• Support internal monitoring and evaluation to strengthen our evidence base
• Help develop our approach to individual giving, fundraising events, and donor communications

We’re looking for someone who shares our commitment to justice and anti-racism, and who brings strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a collaborative approach.

Who we’re looking for

We don’t expect you to know everything from day one - we’re open to candidates with transferable skills from across the charity, campaigning, or community sectors. You might have experience as a fundraiser, grant writer, project officer, or in a policy/impact role where writing and relationship-building are key.

What matters most is that you're passionate about what we do, committed to equity and inclusion, and eager to learn and contribute.

What we offer

• A supportive, mission-driven team working in solidarity with people seeking asylum
• Flexibility around working days, location, and hours
• An organisational culture that prioritises wellbeing and psychological safety
• The chance to shape an ambitious and growing organisation at a pivotal time

About us

Rainforest Foundation UK (RFUK) is a values-driven organisation working with Indigenous Peoples and local communities to protect the world’s rainforests and uphold their human rights. Since 1989, RFUK has partnered with forest peoples and grassroots organisations to secure land rights, challenge destructive industries, and influence laws and policies that safeguard forests and the people who depend on them.

Our mission is clear: to combine human rights and environmental protection to tackle deforestation. From the Congo Basin to the Amazon, our work has helped communities protect millions of hectares of rainforest. With a growing team of passionate advocates for social and environmental justice, we are committed to scaling up our impact to confront the accelerating climate and biodiversity crises.

About the role

As Fundraising Officer, you’ll play a key role in supporting RFUK’s income generation and donor engagement strategies. Working closely with the Senior Fundraising Coordinator, you’ll contribute to a range of activities—from researching trusts and foundations, assisting with grant applications, and managing donor care, to supporting events like the London Marathon and helping implement our digital engagement strategy.

This is a part-time role (21 hours per week), fixed-term for 12 months with the possibility of extension. Based in London with hybrid working options, we offer flexibility, a supportive culture, and the chance to make a lasting difference.

About you

You’re an organised and proactive individual with demonstrable experience in fundraising, ideally within a charity or international development context. You have excellent communication skills, a strong eye for detail, and confidence in using CRM systems and digital tools to manage donor relationships. You thrive on collaboration, can juggle multiple tasks, and are committed to RFUK’s values of environmental and social justice.

If you’re passionate about protecting rainforests and supporting Indigenous communities, we’d love to hear from you.

Job description and benefits

Please download the full job description. We offer 30 days annual leave (pro rata), 4% pension contributions, Employee Assistance Programme, learning and development allowance, and four weeks of work-from-anywhere flexibility.

Location

Hybrid role based in our Bethnal Green office. The postholder would usually be required to work in the office a minimum of one day per week during their probation period. This can be reviewed with their Line Manager thereafter.

Application Process

To submit your application, kindly complete the online application form by Monday 12th January 2026, by 9AM. Please be aware that the form will be anonymised for review by the panel.

Please note that CVs will not be considered.

Regrettably, due to the large number of applications we usually receive, it is not possible to write to you should you not be shortlisted for an interview. If you have not heard from us within 10 days of the closing date, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion. 

Interviews with shortlisted candidates will be held on 28th January 2026. Please let us know in your application if you are available to attend an online interview.

Are you a good all-rounder in fundraising, including a background in Foundations and Trusts? Can you inspire and motivate donors and fundraisers?

If so, then join an ambitious organisation with a determination to transform the future for the 220,000 people in the UK living with axial spondyloarthritis.  

We are a small team, looking for a second Fundraising Officer to work alongside our existing Fundraising Officer to deliver activity across all our income streams, supported by a Fundraising Board. We’re aiming to grow income from individual giving, Trusts and Foundations, community and individual fundraising, trading and further build our community of legacy pledgers. 2026 is our 50th Anniversary, a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our achievements and grow our income.

Our dedicated team at NASS is passionate about transforming lives for people with axial SpA. We truly value our people, who do meaningful work that directly impacts the lives of people living with axial SpA. You'll be supported to succeed and genuinely appreciated for your contributions. We pride ourselves on our collegiate spirit and willingness to support each other in all aspects of our work.  We operate a hybrid model of working, with some staff working remotely for most of the time, so applicants need to be comfortable with working in this way.

The Benefits

· Salary up to £30,000 - £32,000 p.a.

· Employer pension contribution of 10%

· 25 days annual leave plus 3 days leave between Christmas and New Year, plus Bank Holidays

· Time off in Lieu scheme

· Death in Service benefit to loved ones

If this sounds like you, then please get in touch. We would love to hear from you.

To apply, please submit: 

• Your CV
• A two-page cover letter explaining your interest in the role – the letter must describe how your skills and experience meet the person specification.

Application Deadline: 10 am on 6th January 2026.

Interviews:  15th January at our office in Hammersmith.

For further information, and to submit your application, contact Dale Webb

Commitment to equality, diversity & inclusion: NASS is proud to welcome everyone. We aim for a truly inclusive culture with talented, diverse teams that represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We celebrate difference and individuality and encourage everyone to join us and be their whole selves always. We particularly encourage applications from individuals with lived experience of axial SpA and from underrepresented groups in the charity sector.

The Public Affairs Lead sits within our Policy and Advocacy Team, working to build support for The Food Foundation’s work amongst Parliamentarians and to influence the government to help deliver policies that will transform the food system. This is an exciting opportunity to join a small organisation delivering big impact on the political agenda around food.

The Public Affairs Manager reports to our Head of Policy and Advocacy and will be responsible for planning and delivering our public affairs activity. This includes: 

• Political engagement: meeting MPs and Peers in parliament and building relationships with their teams with a view to identifying potential new supporters 
• Policy and research: working closely with colleagues to share perspectives on which priorities it may be tactical to pursue and to understand what evidence is available to inform engagement.
• Networking: working with public affairs professionals in other organisations to deliver joint programmes of engagement work which leverage respective organisational strengths.
• Monitoring: You will have excellent political instincts and a strong interest in policy developments,
  monitoring closely what is going on in Parliament and in Government,in order to identify opportune moments to maximise political attention and to galvanise support for policy change.
• Communicating: building compelling narratives targeted at different political stakeholders about the impacts of the food system on our diets, our health and our planet, and the need for evidence-based solutions. 
• Developing briefing materials and reports for policy audiences and formulate responses on behalf of the organisation to policy development processes and Parliamentary inquiries.
• Events: ensuring our messages and priorities are noticed and heard by policy-makers in a very crowded policy space, including by working closely with our events manager to deliver impactful parliamentary events.

You will bring a learning mindset to the role, assessing the impact of our policy engagement approaches in order to make continuous improvements.

A week in the job

Meeting with a Peer that is new to our work to brief them on evidence we have published and our current political priorities, completing a political stakeholder mapping exercise for a new campaign on sustainable diets to identify a shortlist of MPs to engage with, spending an afternoon in parliament to engage informally with passing MPs, pitching a new idea for a
parliamentary inquiry to parliamentary staff from the Health and Social Care Committee, drafting an MP briefing for an upcoming debate on the Government’ s obesity prevention priorities, reviewing next week’s parliamentary calendar to spot opportunities for engagement, attending a roundtable to share intelligence and discuss priorities for political party manifestos with other NGOs working on food issues, ringing round parliamentary offices to confirm attendance for
an upcoming parliamentary reception, meeting with an MP that is closely involved with The Food Foundation’s work to refine messaging for an upcoming campaign.

Your experience
You will have a strong knowledge of the UK political landscape and be comfortable and confident in engaging with stakeholders in Whitehall and in Parliament across the political spectrum. Ideally you would also have a knowledge of policy related to the food system, public health or the environmental crisis.

Your skills

• Proven ability to influence decision makers
• Strong knowledge and experience of the mechanics of the UK policy-making landscape
• Ability to work diplomatically and professionally with external stakeholders
• Significant experience working in a role with a major focus on external engagement in a policy/public affairs setting
• A confident networker who enjoys building connections and relationships with new people.
• Strong written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex and highly nuanced subject matter in plain English.
• Confidence in working as part of a team, with experience of working collaboratively with colleagues to share ideas, find solutions and help ensure the successful delivery of projects.
• Proactive and independent worker with strong organisational and project management skills and demonstrable experience of delivering on competing priorities within a timepressured environment.
• Close attention to detail and ability to accurately monitor policy developments, stakeholder views and engagement activity.
• You have a commitment to building equitable, diverse and inclusive policy.
• An existing network of relationships with MPs, Peers, advisors and policy officials.

Programme Support & Knowledge Director

Contract: Permanent, Full Time

Location: The role can be based in the London, United Kingdom, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana and Rwanda, subject to right to work eligibility in the respective countries.

UK hybrid working – a minimum of 40 % of working time is spent face-to-face (London office, external meetings or travel). 60/40 hybrid working at WaterAid means roughly three days wherever you work best and two days together in person.

Salary: Salaries and benefits will vary in line with the location of the successful candidate and depending on experience.

UK: £75,916 - £79,912 per year with excellent benefits.

Ethiopia: ETB 13544181 - 19864798.8 per year with excellent benefits.

Tanzania: TZS 217215222.3 - 304101311.22 per year with excellent benefits.

Nigeria: NGN 81860262.3 - 106418340.99 per year with excellent benefits.

Ghana: GHS 1200723 - 1681013 per year with excellent benefits.

Rwanda: RWF 95234280.3 - 133327992.42 per year with excellent benefits. 

Salaries and benefits for other countries will vary in line with the location of the successful candidate and depending on experience.

Change starts with water. Change starts with you.

Every day, millions of people live without clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid exists to change that – for everyone, everywhere. Join us, and your energy will help unlock people’s potential and create a fairer future.

About WaterAid

We’re a global federation driven by one vision: a world where everyone, everywhere has clean water, sanitation and hygiene by 2030. Powered by our values of Respect, Accountability, Courage, Collaboration, Integrity and Innovation, we work alongside communities, partners and supporters to make change happen.

About the team

The Programme Support & Knowledge (PSK) team is a critical and dynamic unit within WaterAid UK’s International Programmes Department (IPD), working across 17 countries in Africa and Asia. PSK is a diverse and motivated group of over 20 technical specialists and advisors committed to bringing sustainable WASH to the world’s poorest and most marginalised people.

About the role

As our Programme Support and Knowledge Director, you will play a key role in delivering our mission by providing strategic leadership to the PSK team and the wider IPD, as part of the department’s SMT. You will also input into organisation-wide initiatives, external collaborations and global networks to drive sustainable change.

In this role, you will:

• Provide strategic and technical leadership to WaterAid UK’s programmes
• Lead the Programme Support & Knowledge Team
• Lead programme learning and knowledge management
• Oversee programme support and capacity development
• Support fundraising, external engagement, partnerships and communications
• Champion WaterAid’s commitment to equity, inclusion and safeguarding.

Requirements

To be successful, you will need:

• Extensive and deep experience in WASH development across multiple contexts
• Strong technical WASH skills – e.g. sustainable rural and /or urban water supply service delivery and management, climate resilient WASH, 
• Systems-thinking capability to support transformational WASH programming
• Proven ability to lead strategic, impactful initiatives in large organisations
• Strong understanding of planning, monitoring and evaluation in development
• Experience in knowledge management, learning and capacity development
• Proven experience of developing propositions and donor engagement and
• A track record of leading high-performing teams and supporting change

Although not essential, we’d prefer you to have:

• Working knowledge of French, Portuguese or Spanish
• Experience leading or managing applied research
• Experience establishing and promoting technical standards.

Closing date: Applications close 12:00 PM UK time on December 21st 2025. Interviews may be scheduled on a rolling basis, and the role may close earlier if a suitable candidate is found.

How to apply: Click Apply to complete the pre-screening questions and upload your CV and cover letter.

Can I use Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in my application?

At WaterAid, we strongly advise against using AI technology at any stage of the recruitment process. Our goal is to ensure a fair and transparent process that provides every applicant with an equal opportunity to succeed. We value hearing about your unique experiences and perspectives in your application, and, if shortlisted, during the interview as well.

Pre‑employment screening

To apply for this role, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the respective country. All pre-employment checks will be carried out according to local law and WaterAid’s Safer Recruitment policy. All UK based roles require a basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Benefits

As a global organisation, WaterAid is committed to creating an environment where you can thrive and be yourself at your very best. Alongside our inspiring mission and meaningful work, we offer a range of benefits tailored to each country’s context and policies. These will be shared during the process

Our Global Commitment:

Our people promise

We will work with passion and focus to make sure everyone everywhere has clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid is a place of purpose – where people have a real commitment and shared responsibility for the impact we have. We are a global community with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, motivated by inspiring, stimulating work. We are determined to be a place where people feel safe and able to contribute their voice and truly live our values.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions, ways of life and status. This includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, caste, colour, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, disability status, neurodiversity, age, marital and family status, sexual orientation and gender identity, health status, place of residence, economic and social situation.

Safeguarding

We are committed to protecting everyone we come into contact with. We have a zero- tolerance approach to abuse of power, privilege or trust across our global work, and to any form of inappropriate behaviour, discrimination, abuse, bullying, harassment, or exploitation. Safeguarding the people and communities we work with, our staff, volunteers and anyone working on our behalf is our top priority, and we take our responsibilities extremely seriously. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks (which can include counterterrorism, safeguarding and criminal records checks).

Together, we’ll change the world through water.

Join us and be part of the change !

The Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will lead MCF’s efforts to build strategic partnerships, drive systemic change, and influence policy to enable Muslim led charities to thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful civil society. 

Job role: Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change

Employer: Muslim Charities Forum

Salary:  £42,000 – 45,000 per annum

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)

Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.

Location: London SE1. Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North

Closing date for applications:16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified.

About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF)

Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy. 

We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society. 

Role Purpose

The Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will lead MCF’s efforts to build strategic partnerships, drive systemic change, and influence policy to enable Muslim-led charities to thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful civil society.

The postholder will work closely with key stakeholders, including policymakers, government departments, funders, infrastructure bodies, and sector leaders, to address structural inequalities, unlock resources, and elevate the recognition of Muslim-led charities in British society. This role will involve both coalition-building and strategic campaigning to create lasting change within the sector.

Working in collaboration with MCF’s policy, communications, advocacy, and research teams, the Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will ensure a coordinated approach that drives long-term, sector-wide capacity improvement and sustainable impact.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Systemic Change

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy focused on driving systemic change that enhances the impact and sustainability of Muslim-led charities.
• Identify and dismantle structural, institutional, and policy barriers that hinder the growth and success of Muslim-led organisations.
• Lead efforts to address disparities in funding, representation, and support for Muslim-led charities, advocating for more equitable resource allocation.
• Champion inclusive policies that promote equity in representation and resource distribution for Muslim-led organisations across the charity sector.

External Engagement & Partnerships

• Build and maintain impactful relationships with key stakeholders, including policymakers, funders, government officials, and sector leaders.
• Work with funders and mainstream sector partners to unlock resources and support for Muslim-led organisations, ensuring equitable access to funding and opportunities.
• Develop strategic alliances and coalitions with infrastructure and umbrella organisations across the charity sector to foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and systemic change.
• Collaborate with civil society partners to advance inclusive policy frameworks and advocate for equitable funding practices.
• Position MCF as a key voice in coalition-building efforts and as a strategic campaigner on issues affecting the Muslim charitable sector.

Policy, Advocacy & Communications

• Collaborate closely with MCF’s policy, communications, and advocacy teams to design and implement integrated strategies for policy influence.
• Contribute to the development of evidence-based policy briefings, consultation responses, and advocacy campaigns aimed at driving systemic reform and addressing sectoral inequalities.
• Lead strategic campaigns that amplify MCF’s core messages and policy priorities to diverse audiences, including decision-makers and key influencers.
• Represent MCF at parliamentary, sectoral, and public events to advocate for policy change and elevate the profile of Muslim-led charities.

Research & Insight

• Work with MCF’s research team to generate insights and data that inform systemic change and strengthen advocacy efforts.
• Translate research findings into actionable recommendations for funders, policymakers, and other influential stakeholders.
• Use research to identify emerging trends and challenges within the Muslim charitable sector, developing proactive solutions to address these issues.

Collaboration & Representation

• Represent MCF externally with professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to the organisation’s values of inclusion, collaboration, and faith sensitivity.
• Act as a thought leader and advocate for Muslim-led charities in both public and private sector forums, driving change through advocacy and coalition-building.

Management

· Lead designated members of the team, overseeing work and line management where appropriate.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Significant experience (minimum 5 years) in driving systemic change within the charity, public, or civil society sectors.
• In-depth understanding of the UK charity landscape, particularly the challenges faced by minority or faith-based organisations.
• Proven track record of building and nurturing strategic partnerships with policymakers, funders, and senior stakeholders.
• Expertise in policy development, advocacy, and influencing key stakeholders to achieve long-term change.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to connect research, policy, and advocacy to drive meaningful outcomes.
• A commitment to MCF’s mission, values, and principles of equity, inclusion, and collaboration.

Desirable:

• Experience in coalition-building or cross-sector partnership development.
• Understanding of frameworks for systemic change (e.g., systems thinking, collective impact).
• Familiarity with the British Muslim charitable ecosystem and its role in social change.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK’s most dynamic faith-based networks.
• A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation.

Application Information:

To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post. Please include two referees (one of whom should be a recent manager).
 
We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos. Reasonable adjustments are available on request throughout the recruitment process.

We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified.

If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.

Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2).

No agencies.

UK residents only.  Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.

About King’s

The King’s community is dedicated to the service of society. King’s Strategic Vision 2029 sets out our vision for the future, shaped around five priority areas: educate to inspire and improve; research to inform and innovate; serve to shape and transform; a civic university at the heart of London; and an international community that services the world. Our ambitious Education Strategy sets out the actions that we must take to transform how we teach, how and where our students learn and how we support them during their time with us.

Within the Social Mobility & Widening Participation Department we believe all young people should be able to have high expectations for their future. This means equal access to education and career opportunities. We run programmes that aim to empower young people from under-represented backgrounds to access and succeed at university.

We are part of the Students & Education Directorate, a collection of wide-ranging professional services in place to support King’s students and their education. As a directorate we manage the student lifecycle from application to graduation and beyond, to ensure a coherent and seamless student experience and effective administrative processes, working closely with King’s faculties to do so.

About the role:

The Social Mobility and Widening Participation Senior Officer is a vital member of the department. The post-holder will lead on the development, delivery and evaluation of sustained outreach initiatives. They will also be involved in a range of other challenging projects run across the Social Mobility and Widening Participation Department.  

The postholder will primarily work with pre-16 pupils and this will involve working collaboratively with and building strategic relationships with our partner schools and teachers.

The post holder will work closely with the wider team, student ambassadors and key partner staff.

This is an exciting opportunity for candidates looking for a career with social impact, and who wish to utilise their skills and expertise in working with young people. This is an opportunity to grow your skills in project management and stakeholder engagement.

We encourage applications from candidates who have experience from both within and outside of the Higher Education sector where they can demonstrate the skills needed to succeed in this role.

This is a full time post (35 hours per week), and we are hiring for two fixed term positions. One contract will end in August 2026 and the other in September 2026.

About you:

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:

Essential criteria

1. Relevant work experience and/or education: We think a wide range of different work and educational experiences could support you to be successful in this role. Relevant work experience might include work in schools, charities or the university sector. Relevant educational experiences might include higher education in a related discipline, professional qualifications or other training

2. Experience working or volunteering with children or young people

3. Experience of undertaking and completing projects which require high levels of administrative and organisational skill

4. Ability to communicate complicated and specialist information orally and in writing to team members and programme participants

5. Ability to work with others in a team to deliver project aims and overcome challenges

6. Ability to use initiative and creativity to resolve problems, define clear outcomes for improvement and set out how progress and success will be measured

7. Ability to coach or train others on how to undertake specific tasks and give clear direction on desired outcomes

8. Ability to gather and manipulate data so that it can be interpreted by yourself and others

9. Ability to decide own pattern of work and manage own workload and resources over a long period 

Desirable criteria

· Educated to degree or foundation degree level

· Understanding of the widening participation agenda and/or the role of higher education in social mobility

· Experience overseeing budgets and undertaking financial administration

Full details of the role and the skills and experience required can be found in the job description which is provided at the bottom of the page.

Further information:

We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming. We embrace diversity and want everyone to feel that they belong and are connected to others in our community. We are committed to working with our staff and unions on these and other issues, to continue to support our people and to develop a diverse and inclusive culture at King's.

We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible.

Closing date: 11 January 2026.

We are seeking a Community Development Officer to lead a major in-progress project improving recognition, support, and care for people with smell and taste disorders at a local level across England. 

This three-year, volunteer-led programme, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund has achieved significant success in its first eighteen months. We are now recruiting a new postholder to take this strong foundation forward through the next phase of delivery. 

Over the past eighteen months, we have recruited and established a thriving network of volunteers and local groups across England. This momentum is expected to continue. The Community Development Officer will work closely with existing volunteers and groups, primarily remotely, while also attending in-person events and meetings in different parts of England as needed. 

The postholder will lead the ongoing recruitment, training, and support of volunteer groups, working with them to identify opportunities for local outreach and engagement. Together, you will ensure that more people affected by smell and taste disorders access the information, support, and recognition they need, while continuing to raise awareness of these often-unrecognised sensory impairments. 

Our volunteer groups bring together people with lived experience alongside experts from the food, beverage and fragrance sectors, and other relevant fields. 

We are looking for a motivated, forward-thinking individual with experience in leading and inspiring others. You will bring energy, creativity, and excellent communication skills to drive the project forward and help build an innovative, sustainable programme of volunteer-led activity, supporting our volunteers to influence change within their communities. 

You will empower volunteers to play an active role in transforming public understanding of how essential smell and taste are to our lives, whether they are running peer support groups, organising local events, delivering talks in community settings, or representing the charity at information days. 

You will join a small, friendly and ambitious team committed to your professional development as the charity continues to grow. 

If you are passionate about making a difference, enjoy working with people, and want to contribute to a pioneering and collaborative organisation that values and empowers its community, we would love to hear from you. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. 

About the role

The student representation team is an integral part of the Student’s Union here at Imperial College. We empower students to change the world around them. From running elections and supporting student-led campaigns, to delivering research and insight on student opinion – our team amplifies the voices of students and supports them in inspiring change and making the world a better place: in the Union, in the College, in the local area and beyond.

We are currently looking for an upbeat and impassioned individual to help support the Representation Manager in our primary objectives of representing students effectively and delivering the best student led experience possible. You will be an outstanding teammate working closely with Officer Trustees and elected student representatives to ensure that positive and impactful change is driven successfully. You will also help deliver Union democratic functions to ensure our representation is engaging and inclusive and enables students to be involved in the decision making at every level.

The successful candidate will have fantastic collaborative skills, becoming better at building relationships as you will have day to day contact with colleagues both across the Student’s Union and the College to facilitate the academic representation system. The role will require excellent planning and organisational skills including contributing to the strategic and operational goals in order to strengthen the Unions capacity for optimal student support through training, representation and democracy. You will also be key in supporting and delivering projects that assess impact across representation work therefore the ability to balance a multifaceted workload is essential.

Experience in a similar role within a fast paced (and fun!) environment would be helpful.

What you would be doing

The Representation Coordinator is a role to support and enable effective student representation within Imperial College Union. The role will ensure students are central to Union decision making by supporting fair democratic processes and helping to provide an excellent student experience.

The role is responsible for empowering and enabling elected student representatives to be effective in their roles, through effective and efficient training, support and administration of representation services.

Alongside the elected Officer Trustees and the Representation Manager, the role will support the development of strategic and operational goals that strengthen the Union’s support capacity and empower student-led change. The role will administer effective training and processes surrounding representation and democracy and play a critical role in assessing the impact of the student representatives. The role will support the delivery of key projects which affect the academic or educational experience of students at Imperial.

The full duties and responsibilities are set out in the Job Description and Person Specification.

What we are looking for

Essential Requirements:

• A Level or relevant experience
• Experience of supporting and empowering volunteers (preferably within higher education)
• Experience of supporting student representation and/or democracy
• Experience of project support and/or event administration, delivery and evaluation
• Experience of maintaining relationships with stakeholders
• Experience of producing and delivering training
• Understanding of the structures, issues and trends affecting higher education and the student experience
• Understanding of best practice in student democracy
• Understanding of best practice for developing and delivering training
• Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion issues in practice
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral
• Competent IT skills – Microsoft 365, e-mail, social media and administrative systems
• Excellent administration and organisation abilities and the competence to balance competing priorities in order to meet deadlines
• Ability to work effectively on your own as well as in a team
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and changing environment with a flexible and adaptable approach to work
• Commitment to the Union’s values of integrity, inclusivity, and innovation

What we can offer you

Please note this role is with the Students’ Union. We’re a registered charity in our right, with our own governance, systems, processes, and objectives. However, we work extremely closely with Imperial College London, so you’ll also be joining a wider community of staff working within higher education. If you’ve never worked in a students’ union, or are unsure why it’s different, we urge you to get in contact. It’s a brilliant place to work.

As an employee of Imperial College, you will be part of lively community and work in a friendly and relaxed environment. Our aim is to provide to all our employees an encouraging and relaxed working environment with an emphasis on personal development and work-life balance. Based on that we offer:

• flexible working hours
• generous pension scheme
• 25 days holiday (plus 6/7 extra days per year for College Christmas and Easter closures)
• bicycle loan scheme
• season ticket loan
• health benefits
• excellent professional development opportunities and many more.

More information can be found on the Imperial College Benefits page.

Further information

To apply for the role please complete the online application form.

We are running a characteristic anonymised application process for this recruitment as part of the College’s commitment to equal opportunities and eliminating discrimination. Applicants will be assigned an application reference number and applicants’ names will not be visible to recruiting managers until the interview stage. You will not be required to attach a CV. Please also refrain from including your name in your supporting statement.

Closing date: 4 January 2026

Should you require any further details on the role please contact the People team listed on our website.

Interviews (In-Person) will be expected to take place week commencing 12 January 2026.

We welcome applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith, or disability. We particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and other racial minority ethnic candidates and disabled candidates who are currently underrepresented in our workforce. If there are any reasonable adjustments needed through the process, we will accommodate as much as possible.

As part of our commitment to sustainability, every role within Imperial College Union contributes to our environmental and social goals. This includes actively participating in initiatives to reduce waste, conserve energy, and promote eco-friendly practices within every department.