Pr jobs

Employer: Community Rail Network 

Salary: £43k-£51.5k pa, full time 

Location: Home based / flexible or Huddersfield 

We are seeking a dynamic director of policy and communications, to lead and develop our increasingly impactful external affairs activity. You’ll be sharing community insights and evidence with policy and decision-makers at national and devolved level, supporting a shift towards more inclusive and sustainable transport and mobility, while overseeing high-quality, inspiring member communications and thought-leadership, drawing on grassroots experiences.  
  

About us 

Community Rail Network is a national not-for-profit organisation supporting a growing ‘community rail’ movement, which helps communities get the most from their railways, promotes sustainable and inclusive travel, coordinates volunteering and place-making, and brings people together.

Community rail is made up of 76 community-based partnership organisations, and c.1,300 station friends volunteer groups and other community-led initiatives around Britain. Their activities range from creative projects for young people, to advising train operators on service improvements, to building travel confidence among marginalised groups, to biodiversity projects at stations, to promoting greener tourism by rail.

Our enthusiastic team of 24 works from home in different locations, but we come together regularly in person and online. We work collaboratively to support our members, provide training, events and resources, run campaigns, and champion community rail and its insights. We believe in developing our team and helping everyone reach their potential while having a good work-life balance.

About this role 

This role is crucial for us, our members and their communities, especially at the current time, with our need to seize on the opportunities of rail reform and devolution, promote wider use of sustainable transport, and bring communities together. You will spearhead our external affairs strategy and plans, building political relationships, influencing decision-making and raising awareness of community rail and its insights, while ensuring effective communications with our members and helping them to have a voice locally and regionally. You’ll be striving to put community rail at the forefront of a shift towards more inclusive and sustainable mobility.

As a member of our senior leadership team, reporting to and working closely with our chief executive, you will manage a passionate team of four, ensuring collaboration with our other teams, partners and funders, and drawing on members’ insights.

 
Main responsibilities 

• Lead the review, development and delivery of our communications, policy and insights strategy, working to position the community rail movement effectively, use its insights to influence policy change, and ensure our members are well-informed and have a voice; 

• Further strengthen our advisory and influencing work with national, devolved and regional government, transport bodies, parliamentarians and other decision-makers, especially around rail reform, transport devolution and integrated, inclusive, sustainable transport; 

• Ensure we’re engaging effectively with policy developments and opportunities, taking forward a programme of relationship-building, and identifying and engaging in relevant consultations, events and speaking opportunities, enabling community rail’s insights and experiences to be shared; 

• Collaborate with partners in rail, government and the third sector to feed in our expertise on community engagement with rail, amplify our campaigns, and build opportunities for joined-up communications and policy work;

• Continually develop and disseminate our evidence base and insights on the social, environmental and economic value community rail delivers, and opportunities to create greater benefits for communities from rail and transport; 

• Oversee high-quality, coherent and inspiring communications with our members and partners, promoting our work, and sharing news, opportunities, and good practice across the movement; 

• Manage production of high-quality resources, case studies and reports that our members can use to enhance their impact and which showcase community rail’s impact; 

• Lead and develop our media relations and awareness-raising PR, championing community rail and its messages on sustainable, inclusive travel and communities at national and regional level, while supporting members on local PR; 

• Develop our online presence and reach, making full use of our website, social media, our Scenic Rail Britain campaign, and partners’ channels to celebrate and position community rail and grow its reach and impact; 

• Oversee a calendar of creative and impactful campaigns that involve and empower our members, creating PR and engagement opportunities, including Community Rail Week;

• Play a key role in collective leadership, strategic focus and organisational development as a member of our senior leadership team, including through internal communications and cross-team working, annual planning, funder liaison and reporting, upholding our strategies and policies, and pursuing opportunities for continuous improvement. 

 
Skills and competencies 

1. Strong leadership and management skills, including experience managing, developing and drawing on a multi-faceted team delivering complex campaigns or projects, and budget management; 
2. Excellent communication and external leadership skills; articulate, assertive, and with the ability to work diplomatically and persuasively with stakeholders at all levels; 
3. An understanding of public affairs, ideally in relation to community development, sustainability and/or transport, and a demonstrable ability to identify influencing opportunities, deliver thought-leadership, and engage with policy-makers, including sharing community insights; 
4. Politically astute, with awareness of and commitment to social inclusion, social justice and sustainability, and a good grasp of the importance of public transport sustainable travel, and community-led action, to these agendas; 
5. Understanding of political processes and experience of engaging with policy and decision-making, ideally at national, devolved and local levels; 
6. Sound knowledge of communication and marketing methods and channels, and ability to oversee messaging and targeting of public and professional audiences, and to align content across multiple channels; 
7. A demonstrable ability to think analytically and draw on statistical and qualitative research to construct robust, evidence-based arguments; 
8. Experience of working with the media and achieving coverage at national, regional and local level; 
9. Experience working collaboratively with partners and ideally funders to deliver communications and policy activity and forming professional networks; 
10. Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines while dealing with competing priorities, and to support team members to do so; 
11. IT literate with a good working knowledge of Office, the internet and social media; 
12. Appropriate qualifications and professional development demonstrating knowledge and skills in line with the above, and a commitment to ongoing learning and development.

Other information

As you will be home-based, we are flexible about your location. However, you will be expected to travel to in-person full team meetings quarterly (usually in West Yorkshire), and you will need to bring your team together (currently all West Yorkshire based) with similar regularity in between. Attendance at in-person events and meetings is also important. We therefore welcome applications from those with decent public transport links, not too far from a railway station, to enable journeys to be made sustainably.   

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

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

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We have embarked on our 10-year strategy for ending homelessness. We know it is not inevitable. We know together we can end it.

Location: South Wales Skylight to work hybrid in line with Crisis’ Hybrid Working Policy, with an expectation to work a minimum of one day a week from the Skylight more as per business requirements

Contract: Permanent

About the role

The Senior Policy and Public Affairs Wales role at Crisis is an exciting opportunity to make a big difference in our mission to end homelessness. Through collaborating with colleagues, our frontline services, our members with lived experience of homelessness, key partners, civil servants and Members of the Senedd, you will help to develop and push for impactful policy change in Wales.

With the next Senedd term fast approaching and new homelessness legislation expected, you will be joining the team at a critical time in our calls for bold action to end homelessness in Wales. The postholder will be passionate about achieving fairness and equity, advocating for others, and achieving social justice through policy change.

About you

· Excellent knowledge of national and local government structures across Wales, with a proven track record for  effectively influencing policy

· Ability to communicate complex policy issues clearly and concisely to a range of audiences

· Dedication to seeking effective policy change to help end homelessness, valuing the importance of lived experience in policy development

· Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team, collaborating with colleagues and building a network across key partners

· Experienced in working in a busy environment, prioritising workloads and working to deadline

· While not essential for the role, the ability to speak Welsh is desirable

Please see the full Job Pack linked below, for a full list of requirements for this role. We realise that long lists of criteria can be daunting, and you may not want to apply for a role unless you feel 100% qualified. However, if you feel you have relevant examples to answer the screening questions, we encourage you to apply.

We believe diversity is a strength, and our aim is to make sure that Crisis truly reflects the communities we serve. We are actively working towards our organisation being a place where everyone can thrive and make their best contribution to our mission of ending homelessness for good. We know that the more perspectives, voices, and experiences we can bring to this work, the better. We particularly welcome applications from people who have lived experience of homelessness, and people from all marginalised groups, communities, and backgrounds. 

Working at Crisis 

Our values, Bold, Impactful, Collaborative and Equitable, are at the heart of everything we do as we continue in our mission to end homelessness.

Our staff, members and volunteers are vital to getting the right government policies in place, providing breakthrough services, and building a supportive community. We’ll lead by example to nurture a positive and ambitious workplace guided by ending homelessness.  

As a member of the team, you will have access to a wide range of employee benefits including: 

· A competitive salary. Please note our salaries are fixed to counter inequity and we do not negotiate at offer stage.

• Interest free loans for travel season ticket, cycle to work, and deposit to secure a tenancy. 
• Pension scheme with an employer contribution of 8.5% 
• 28 days’ annual leave (pro rata) which increases with service to 31 days and the option to purchase up to 10 additional days leave. 
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption pay.
• Flexible working around the core hours 10am-4pm 
• Wellbeing Leave to be used flexibly 
• And more! (Full list of benefits available on website) 

Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience, and career. 

When you join us, you will have the opportunity to join our staff diversity networks, which aim to champion issues across the organisation, enable staff to be their authentic and best selves and contribute to making Crisis a truly diverse organisation.

How do I apply?

Please click on the 'Apply for Job' button below. Our shortlisting process is anonymised as part of our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We do not ask for CVs, instead we ask you complete the work history section and answer the screening questions for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively. At least two members of staff score all applications.

Closing date: Sunday 18th January 2026 23:59

Interview process: Competency-based interview and a written task

Interview date and location: Friday 6th February 2026 (in-person) at Crisis Skylight, South Wales, 163 St Helens Road, Swansea, SA1 4DQ

AI in Job Applications

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences

Accessibility 

We want our recruitment process to be as accessible as possible. If you need us to make an adjustment or provide additional support as you apply for a role, please email our Talent Acquisition team will contact you to discuss how we can help. 

For more information about our work please visit

Registered Charity Numbers: E&W1082947, SC040094 

Role Summary

Job title: Communications Lead
Contract: Part-time (80% FTE), permanent position 
Location: Hybrid working: office base is at Somerset House, London: we are flexible on approach, within a hybrid model of in-person & virtual. This can be discussed at interview (*) 
Salary: £44k p.a. (pro rata)
Reporting to: Director of Julie’s Bicycle
Start date: Ideally beginning of March 2026 - depending on candidate’s notice period 
Hours: Working hours are 9.30am - 5.30pm, Monday to Friday
(requests for flexible working hours will be considered) 

Other:

• Annual leave is 25 days per year (pro rata) plus standard bank holidays
• Cultural entitlement of £250 per annum (pro rata) to spend on arts/cultural events & activities
• All employees are able to claim 1 hour a week for personal wellbeing
• Pension scheme enrolment and 6% employer contributions (reviewed annually)

(*) Access to office space in London is always available to staff who can't or don't want to work from home. 

If you would like this application pack in a different format (e.g. large print or audio file), please contact us (information in the link provided).

About Julie’s Bicycle (JB)

JB is a leading non-profit putting climate action at the heart of culture. We believe that creativity is a powerful catalyst for change — and that the arts and cultural sector has a vital role to play in building a just, regenerative future.

For over 15 years, we’ve worked with artists, cultural institutions, funders, and policymakers to mobilise creative climate leadership and action through advocacy, research, policy influence, training, path-finding projects and community building. We champion climate justice, centre equity, and believe that environmental solutions must be driven by cultural shifts as well as systems change. For more information on all our programmes, please visit our website.

The Role

We’re seeking a visionary and collaborative Communications Lead to lead the next phase of our communications strategy. This role is about more than messaging — it’s about shaping a compelling and inspiring public voice for creative climate action.

You will be responsible for our brand, storytelling, content strategy, and creative outputs—ensuring that everything we do reflects our values, amplifies our impact, and deepens our reach across the cultural and climate landscape. You’ll also play a key role in supporting our impact including welcoming new cultural organisations, creative practitioners, environmental partners, and funders into our network.

This is a digital-first communications role, with a strong focus on content development, storytelling, and designing varied communication campaigns. You’ll oversee our editorial voice across blogs, email, social media, and digital content. Alongside our Marketing Lead, you will ensure our insights, tools, and narratives are warm, purpose-focused, clear, accessible, and optimised for reach and engagement. You will be someone who thrives on the combination of ambitious strategic thinking and delivering content and projects on the ground.

You will collaborate with partner organisations to co-create communications, support joint campaigns, and ensure our voice is visible and aligned in the broader climate and culture movement. And while press/media remains part of the role, your primary focus will be digital content, brand positioning, and reaching new audiences.

You will be part of a small Marketing and Communications team and work closely with the rest of JB’s 20-person, supportive and mission-driven team.

We encourage people from any background to apply for this post. We are committed to creating a workforce which is representative of our society, and to bringing together those with a variety of skills and experiences to help shape what we do and how we work. We are particularly keen to hear from people of colour and those who self-identify as disabled.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and deliver an inclusive, digital-first communications strategy that positions Julie’s Bicycle as a cultural leader in climate action.
• Work with senior leadership to drive communications that support organisational growth, impact and fundraising, helping to expand our network and deepen engagement with the arts and cultural sector and the climate and environmental movement.
• Embed climate justice and equity throughout our communications, ensuring our language, images, and stories reflect a diverse, accessible, and fair transition.
• Champion our core narrative: putting climate action at the heart of culture.

Brand, Creative & Campaigns

• Lead on brand implementation, ensuring coherence of messaging and tone across all channels and materials.
• Deliver innovative and values-led communications campaigns in collaboration with partners and internal teams. Lead on key messaging, ensuring we are consistent and confident across all our channels.
• Take a data-led approach to maximise impact of our communications.
• Oversee design and creative production for campaigns, reports and digital content, (working alongside our Marketing Lead and with support from external designers/freelancers).
• Ensure communications projects are managed on time and on budget.
• Develop and implement communications for newer target audiences in particular leaders and change-makers across the environmental sector.
• Collaborate with our Marketing Lead to co-develop mar/comms strategies for individual programmes and projects, working closely with our programme leads.

Content & Digital

• Develop engaging, inclusive content across web, blogs, newsletters and social media.
• Shape and oversee editorial calendars that reflect our programmes, partnerships, research, and events.
• Lead on our content management and storytelling strategy.
• Ensure all content is optimised for audience growth, accessibility, and search (SEO), working closely with our Marketing Lead who leads on our overall web and SEO strategy.
• Support on the production of public reports and external briefing materials, ensuring appropriate tone and key messages.
• Manage internal and freelance team members producing social media content.

Partnerships & Profile

• Collaborate with cultural, environmental, and funding partners to co-create shared messaging, campaigns, and communications assets.
• Ensure JB’s story, voice, and impact are clearly represented in all collaborations and public-facing materials.
• Support JB’s role in coalitions and networks by developing communications that reflect collective aims and shared values.
• Work with the JB CEO and programme leads to create and implement a strategy for public-facing thought leadership.

Media & External Relations

• Maintain relationships with relevant journalists and media outlets, responding to media opportunities that align with our strategy.
• Support the Director and other team members with media briefings and public communications as needed.
• When funded opportunities arise, lead liaison with external PR and media consultants.

Team & Collaboration

• Line manage / support the management of the Marketing and Communications Coordinator.
• Work closely with all internal teams — partnership, consultancy, research, advocacy, programmes — to align messaging and amplify impact.
• Contribute to organisational learning, planning, and shared values.
• Support the implementation and day to day running of JB’s new CRM.
• With the Marketing Lead, strengthen internal editorial and brand sign off processes for publications, media releases and key content.
• Support impact measurement and communication of impact.

Person Specification

Essential

• Substantial experience in a senior communications role, ideally within the cultural, environmental, or non-profit sectors.
• Significant experience in designing and delivering successful communications strategies.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with a track record of developing clear, creative, and inclusive content.
• Strong experience in campaign development, brand implementation, visual storytelling, and communications project management.
• Knowledge of content strategy, SEO, and audience engagement across digital platforms.
• Demonstrable ability to embed equity, diversity, and commitment to climate justice into communications practice.
• Collaborative and confident communicator with experience working across teams and with external partners.
• Strategic thinker with a commitment to Julie’s Bicycle’s mission and values.
• Strong design aesthetic and use of design skills (e.g. Adobe Creative Cloud suite and Canva).
• Strong project management skills: the ability to meet deadlines and work flexibly across priorities in a fast-changing environment.
• Attention to detail and excellent proof reading.

Desirable

• Familiarity with climate and/or cultural policy environments.
• Experience working with funders, public bodies, or large-scale cultural partnerships.
• PR and media relations experience and contacts across digital and print channels
• Design, photography, or multimedia experience (or managing those with those skills).
• Experience contributing to organisational growth and development through communications.

Why Join Us?

At Julie’s Bicycle, you’ll join a passionate team working at the intersection of creativity and climate action. We offer a collaborative, inclusive, and flexible working culture — where your voice will shape how the cultural sector responds to one of the greatest challenges of our time. 

How to Apply

If you’d like to apply, please complete the application form and equal opportunities monitoring form on our website and submit these by 11.59pm on Sunday 18th Jan 2026.

We are committed to being an Equal Opportunities Employer; we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, gender, disability, culture, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.

Please note, this post is open to people who already have the right to live and work in the UK, as Julie’s Bicycle is not currently in a position to sponsor a work visa.

A note on AI

While we understand that some people may use AI tools for accessibility (and recognise and support that many assistive technologies may use elements of AI), we ask candidates to consider what tools are most appropriate during the application process. For example, we recognise the value for many people of machine learning language tools like Grammarly. On the other hand we would discourage the use of generative AI tools in writing your application, as we'd like to understand your personal interest in working for Julie's Bicycle, and be able to understand your non-AI-assisted communication skills just as they are. We also recognise that for many of the people and creative communities we work with, the rise of generative AI poses a threat to their livelihoods, while the environmental impacts of AI are only set to grow: this means we also have a responsibility as Julie's Bicycle to consider where and when (and if) we use AI in our work. 

Thank you for your interest in working at Julie’s Bicycle.

Listening Books are looking for a diligent, pro-active person to join our small team in the maternity cover role of Titles and Copyright Co-ordinator. If you have excellent organisational and communication skills, a broad knowledge of books and the UK publishing industry, would like to expand your experience in the charity sector and are interested in representing a charity that supports anyone with a print impairment, then we would love to hear from you.

Listening Books is a charity that provides an excellent audiobook lending service to people whose illness, disability, specific learning difficulty or mental health condition impacts on their ability to read the printed word. Our audiobook catalogue contains over 10,000 titles and reaches over 100,000 members across the UK. We believe that books should be accessible to everyone. The successful candidate will be responsible for buying and processing all new titles for our catalogue and regularly liaising with publishers to maintain our excellent relationships with them, ensuring all our contracts and paperwork remains up-to-date. The candidate will be responsible for both the administrative and technical aspects of adding new titles to our catalogue via our download platform, OverDrive Inc. Training will be given but a high level of computer literacy is essential. The candidate will also be responsible for managing the budget for titles and must have previous experience of handling basic budgets.

We can offer flexible working arrangements, including remote, office-based, or hybrid options for the right candidate. There is also some flexibility in how hours are distributed across the week; however, we would prefer that a portion of the hours be worked on Thursday or Friday.  A salary of £28,000 per annum (pro-rata) and a matched contribution pension scheme up to 8% of salary, following successful completion of the probation period.

Closing date for applications is Tuesday 6th January at 11.59pm and interviews will be held via Zoom on Monday 12th and Tuesday 13th January. Depending on volume of applications received, we reserve the right to close the vacancy earlier than this date, so please apply early if you are interested.

Please include your CV and a covering letter, telling us why you would be suitable for the role, paying close attention to the job description and person specification, which can be found when you click on 'Apply Now'.  Applicants who do not submit a covering letter will not be considered.

All appointments are subject to two satisfactory references, including a previous employer, evidence of the right to work in the UK and a basic DBS check. Privacy notice: Details of unsuccessful applications will be held on record under the lawful basis of Listening Books’ legitimate business interests for a period of 6 months before being securely destroyed.

Whitley Fund for Nature

The Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN) is a UK charity supporting outstanding grassroots conservation leaders across the Global South. Through project funding (Awards), training, and media profile, we support local solutions to the planet’s most pressing conservation challenges. Our winners are courageous changemakers, working alongside communities to save species and protect ecosystems. Established in 1993, we have channeled £24 million to +220 conservation leaders in 80 countries, benefitting wildlife, landscapes, and people. WFN is governed by a committed trustee board. Our team is dynamic, passionate about our mission, and ambitious. The charity benefits from high profile support from Patron, HRH The Princess Royal, and Ambassadors including Sir David Attenborough.

The Opportunity

In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to use and develop your communications skills to help amplify the work of WFN and conservation leaders. You’ll play an important role in supporting our digital channels, campaigns, and content creation - from social media and newsletters to website updates and event communications. You should have excellent writing skills, strong attention to detail and an interest in nature and wildlife conservation issues. If you are looking to build a career in communications, want to help support those protecting our planet, and are seeking experience working for a small, ambitious charity, then we want to hear from you!

“Saving our planet is now a communications challenge. We know what to do, we just need the will” - Sir David Attenborough.

COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT - PERSONAL SPECIFICATION

Essential:

• Excellent writing skills
• An eye for design to create engaging assets for diverse audiences and platforms, including our website, newsletters, social media and events
• Confident communicator with a friendly, professional manner
• Organised, with high levels of accuracy and attention to detail
• Proficient in Microsoft Office - Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
• Able to manage and prioritise a varied workload within deadline
• Reliable, proactive, and willing to take initiative
• Comfortable working as part of a small, busy team
• Interest in wildlife conservation.

Desirable

• Experience drafting and scheduling social media posts, and producing campaign assets
• Familiarity with programmes such as Canva and Hootsuite to aid with content creation and scheduling
• Experience with basic video editing
• Competency using a Salesforce database, WordPress, or Mailchimp.

Additional details and benefits:

• Attractive holiday package totaling 30 days p.a. plus bank holidays
• Training and professional development opportunities provided
• Hybrid working opportunities
• The charity operates a Pension Scheme and a Life Assurance Scheme
• Access to 24hr Employee Assistance Programme.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship. Only applicants who have the right to work in the UK at the time of application will be considered for this role.

Regrettably, due to limited resources and the high number of applications we receive, we are only able to contact short-listed candidates. If you do not hear from us within four weeks of the closing date, please assume that you have not been successful on this occasion.

Diversity and Inclusion

At WFN we are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse organisation, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. We celebrate and respect diversity in nature and among the people and partners with whom we work. We need more people and diversity across the environment sector, and to achieve our vision. We therefore encourage applications from Black, Asian or minority ethnic; disabled; LGBTQ+; or from lower socio-economic backgrounds. As a small organisation we are committed to progressing and continuing development across DE&I. Please contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application. Applications are considered solely on your demonstrated suitability for the role.

COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT - JOB DESCRIPTION

REPORTING TO HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS

 DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS

WFN’s communications amplify the work of Whitley Award winners, raise the profile of the charity, bolster fundraising efforts, and contribute to global conservation conversations, positioning WFN as a leader within the sector.

• Monitor, and create and schedule content for WFN’s Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn accounts, helping to grow engagement and channel performance, driving traffic to WFN’s website, and sharing charity, winner, and sector news – in line with WFN’s communications strategy and with oversight from the Head of Communications (HoC)
• Lead management of WFN’s photo library and footage archive (Google photos): naming, categorising, and uploading winner and event photos
• Support delivery of social media campaigns during the lead up to events to drive engagement and/or donations, and supporting with posting content throughout the event period
• Help produce video content
• Support production and distribution of our regular e-letter (through MailChimp)
• Work with the HoC on WFN’s website to regularly review and update content
• Draft copy for website news stories and any additional copywriting as needed throughout the year
• Assist the HoC with monthly reporting on the website, social media platforms, newsletter and media coverage
• Support digital event communications including creation of e-letters, e-invitations, website pages, email signatures and visual assets.

 PR

WFN shares impactful stories that resonate with supporters and demonstrate we can make a difference. Throughout the year, we actively work to secure PR coverage for Whitley Award winners. Increased visibility helps winners to attract further funding, gain new connections, and increase political clout – all tools which strengthen conservation work.

• Produce reactive social media to share PR coverage secured by the HoM
• Create and distribute toolkits for press and partners to bolster media campaigns
• Collate charity and winner press coverage, including website news pages, throughout the year
• Support the Head of Media (HoM) and HoC in responding to press enquiries and supplying materials.

 EVENTS

Whitley Awards Ceremony

The Whitley Awards are the result of an international search to find, fund, train and put a spotlight on outstanding grassroots leaders and their conservation projects. Finalists are invited to London for a week of training and events, culminating with the Whitley Awards Ceremony, where winners receive their Awards from WFN Patron, HRH The Princess Royal in front of 400 guests and many more tuning in via our livestream.

The Communications Assistant will assist the team in planning and delivery of events during the Whitley Awards Ceremony week, including the Friends Reception, Ceremony and NGO Reception, particularly in the following areas: 

Communications

• Assist with supplier liaison across event filming, livestream, and photography
• Help create event visuals and on-screen graphics
• Support with creation of the Ceremony invitations and booklet
• Support with sourcing additional material for the Whitley Award films as needed
• Support the HoC with creation and uploading of content to the website and across social media platforms, including press releases, photographs, news stories, winner pages, and films.

Other WFN Events

Throughout the year WFN holds other fundraising and engagement events ranging from intimate dinners with supporters, winner talks, events as part of our Next Gen programme and major initiatives such as Biodiversity Summits which will require the CA’s assistance.

• Assist with the production of pre-event communications and marketing materials, including invitations, e-letters, social media content, and advertisements
• Assist with setting up and managing platforms such as Eventbrite as needed
• Assist with production of event materials (signage, banners, programmes, displays, slides)
• Assist with communications-related supplier liaison eg. Photography, filming, livestreaming etc.

 GENERAL DUTIES

• Review and respond to general email enquiries when needed (info@ inbox)
• Represent WFN professionally at all times
• Adhere to WFN’s financial and operational procedures
• Undertake any other duties as reasonably requested from time to time. This job description is not exhaustive and may evolve.

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.

The Freedom Fund

The Freedom Fund is a global non-profit dedicated to ending modern slavery. Since 2014, we’ve invested over $100 million into frontline organisations and coalitions, helping to shift power to local actors and create lasting systems change. Our new strategy doubles down on this commitment, investing in anti-slavery movements, fostering collaboration, and working as a trusted partner to the incredible people and organisations driving this work forward. 
 
Safeguarding Manager
This is a key role in the Freedom Fund’s Safeguarding Manager will work closely with colleagues to lead efforts to build internal capacity and embed strong, inclusive safeguarding practices throughout our work. You’ll coordinate a network of safeguarding focal points and champions across teams and geographies, helping ensure safeguarding is an active, everyday part of our organizational culture.

Interview process: 2 stage interview process: week commencing 5th January 2026
Please see the job description for all details.

Camcycle is a bold and influential cycle advocacy charity. Our Communications Officer is responsible for delivering clear, compelling and consistent print, digital and in-person communications to support Camcycle’s campaign work and engage with our varied audiences. They will help to secure and grow our charity’s position as a knowledgeable, trusted voice on local transport, as well as amplifying the voices of local cyclists and potential cyclists across the region.

Building on Camcycle’s 30 years of campaigning expertise and community engagement, the role holder will help to build our archive of local transport knowledge and best practice, collating resources that empower community activists to successfully achieve better walking, cycling and public spaces in their neighbourhoods. They will provide an essential link between grassroots groups and transport decision-makers, helping local people make their voices heard in public meetings and consultations. They will also ensure that cycling policies and infrastructure respond to the existing needs of Cambridgeshire’s communities while being ready for a growing region and a more sustainable, equitable future.
 

Responsibilities include:

• Planning and executing compelling communications campaigns that inspire others and enable them to take action. 

• Building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders including media outlets, creative agencies and suppliers, officers, councillors, community groups and Camcycle members.

• Leading on the redevelopment of the Camcycle website and production of online content including managing our social media channels.

• Developing Camcycle’s profile through media interviews, columns and statements, and working with the team to produce our quarterly magazine.

• Managing weekly email updates to Camcycle members and providing support for member recruitment, fundraising and occasional events.
   

Your skills and experience:

You will have several years’ experience in marketing or communications in a professional and/or voluntary capacity and an excellent understanding of what motivates people to take action. 

With excellent written and spoken communication skills, you will be able to craft compelling copy for a range of audiences and summarise complex subject matter into accessible content which drives supporter engagement and response. Whatever your existing level of experience around sustainable transport advocacy, you’ll be keen to learn and grow in your role as a confident spokesperson for the needs and benefits of cycling.

You’ll have experience using design software such as Adobe Suite or Canva to produce content for print and digital materials, and be bursting with creative ideas about how Camcycle could grow its audience on our social media channels. You’ll be confident speaking in public meetings and on the radio or TV, as well as interviewing local cyclists about their experiences and pitching ideas for organisational improvements and strategies to the staff team and board of trustees.
 

How to apply:
Please send your CV and a supporting statement to the email address on our Work With Us webpage by 11.59pm on Monday 12 January, 2026. Interviews will begin w/c Monday 26 January.

ABOUT THE ROLE

This role covers two areas of ministry helping to fulfil the overall mission of London Riverside Church (LRC):

• To coordinate the existing Community Action ministries and projects of LRC.

• To oversee three annual events in the LRC church calendar.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE

COMMUNITY ACTION COORDINATOR

• Lead the LRC Community Action Steering Team.

• Coordinate and develop Community Action projects and events.

• Provide oversight for and develop ministry/ project leaders.

• Planning, coordination and oversight of summer & Christmas Love the Borough projects.

• Oversee the Community Action budget & purchases.

• Nurture working relationships with outside agencies.

• Link with other LRC ministries regarding additional and ongoing pastoral support.

Current Community Action ministries & projects:

Foodbank, Hostels, Care Homes, Parent & Toddler Groups, Craft & Coffee Morning, Fitness Class, Community Coffee Morning, DIY SoS and CAP Money Matters

EVENT LEAD

• Planning & oversight of three annual events in the LRC church calendar (Easter, Christmas, Party in the Park).

• Liaising with and coordinating the various ministries and teams involved (Comms, Creative, Operations, Catering, etc.).

• Point-person on day of event.

Public Affairs Officer
Location: WWT Slimbridge, GL2 -Hybrid + Travel
Salary: £31,680 per annum
Contract: Permanent

About The Role

Are you passionate about building a political consensus for nature restoration? Are you able to translate public support into parliamentary will? Do you want to shift the political dial for one of our most superpowered habitats? 

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the heart of a well-respected and evidence-led organisation with an ambitious new strategy to restore 100,000 hectares of wetlands across the country. From providing homes for wildlife to protecting communities from flooding, we want to unlock the superpowers of wetlands so everyone can benefit.

Based in the Communications Team, you’ll work closely with our Senior Campaigns Manager and colleagues across the organisation to build and deliver a public affairs strategy that fits the ambition of our 2030 aims. With a keen eye on UK politics and an ability to build relationships with key decision-makers, you’ll help us translate widespread public support for nature into the political will for action, and the policies to follow it up.

With support from our team of experts, you will lead stakeholder engagement across government, Parliament and policy organisations, ensuring WWT’s research and strategic priorities are communicated effectively. Your work will include developing policy positions, producing briefings and reports, managing public affairs events, and gathering intelligence on the external policy landscape.

This hands-on role demands a strategic thinker with strong political insights, capable of building relationships, monitoring political environments and crafting plans and strategies that deliver the political change we need to see.

About You

We are seeking an individual with:

• Relevant experience working within a public affairs, campaigns, parliamentary or government environment. 
• Proven experience of developing and delivering public affairs and advocacy plans and strategies designed to influence Government, politicians and other stakeholders. 
• Experience of working closely with senior colleagues, offering strategic advice and briefings ahead of political events.
• Strong working knowledge of the UK Parliament’s political processes and an understanding of the current political environment, including parliamentary tools and processes. 
• Confidence building a network of strong and positive relationships with government officials, including politicians and civil servants to affect policy change. 
• Confidence representing an organisation and its cause with high-profile and political audiences. 
• Familiarity with campaigning to build political and public support that leads to policy change. 
• Strong writing skills, confident communicating complex issues clearly and succinctly, and adapting style for different audiences. 

About Us

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

Why you’ll love working at WWT

• Wake up every day knowing your work is helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by our team of passionate, dedicated people
• 33 days annual leave (which goes up to 38 days after 5 years of service) – this includes bank holidays and you have flexibility to take those days whenever you want
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Free car parking and secure bike storage areas
• Colleague discount on shopping and memberships
• Cycle to work scheme
• Contributory pension scheme
• Life Assurance of three times your salary, for peace of mind for your loved ones
• Independent personal, workplace and financial advice from our Employee Assistance Programme

We are based in Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Gloucestershire, but support hybrid working with an expectation for team members to be in Slimbridge at least once a week.  While this post is based at a WWT site with the opportunity for hybrid working, travel will be necessary for parliamentary purposes, including outside of normal business hours when required.

If you want to make a direct contribution to the conservation of wetlands and wetland wildlife at a critical moment for the natural world, then click apply.

Closing Date: 18th January 2026
We reserve the right to close the advert early if we receive a sufficient number of applications from candidates who meet the required skills and experience. We therefore encourage early applications.

Interested?

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

WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on merit.

No agencies please.

Reporting to:   Communications & Marketing Manager

Contract: Permanent; Full time 37.5 hours per week Monday to Friday. Some evening or weekend working will be required as part of this role. 

Location: Hybrid. Home working with minimum of 40% of contracted hours at our office in Welwyn Garden City. Candidates must be based in the UK and within reasonable commuting distance to our office in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire.

Job purpose

The Communications & Marketing Officer is a key role within our busy Communications Team. They will support the wider Willow team in delivering on plans to raise the charity’s profile and increase supporter engagement. The Communications Team supports the communications needs of all teams across the organisation.

Principal responsibilities and duties

• Contribute to, and help to evolve, Willow’s communications activity, including emails, website, marketing and social media
• Work with the Willow teams to plan and deliver a regular calendar of content, ensuring the communication and marketing needs of colleagues across the organisation are met
• Manage the promotion of fundraising campaigns and events
• Engage with press, supporters, beneficiaries, partners, volunteers and medical professionals to help establish Willow as a national brand
• Gather and create engaging content, including case studies, images and videos, to be used to raise awareness of Willow’s work locally and nationally
• Develop and manage working relationships with creative agencies, printers and freelancers to deliver high quality communications, on time and within budget
• Use analytics tools to report back on performance and identify learnings and opportunities
• Attend Willow and third-party events, providing communications support including social media posting, videography, photography and media management
• Work with the managers of Willow’s shops to deliver a program of communications projects and activities to engage new donors and customers
• Work with Communications Team colleagues to plan and deliver activity to support the Digital Comms Strategy, Ambassador & Influencer Strategy, Growth plan and key themes and projects
• Be an active member of the team and charity as a whole and undertake training and skills development and keep up to date with the changing requirements of the role and the external environment
• Undertake other duties that may be required as part of the role

Person Specification 

• Experience of working in a busy marketing/PR/communications team, ideally in a charity environment
• A responsive, confident self-starter who is enthusiastic and highly motivated
• Excellent planning, time-management and organisational skills with ability to stick to timetables for delivery of work and meet deadlines under pressure
• Able to express ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing, with an ability to adjust tone and content appropriately for different target audiences
• Strong copywriting and editing skills with the ability to turn complex information into compelling stories and content
• Ability to think creatively, offering new ideas, concepts and solutions
• Experience of developing multi-channel communications plans and taking a communications campaign forward through different digital and offline channels
• Design skills, particularly in creating and/or overseeing the design of visually appealing digital and non-digital content which adheres to brand guidelines
• Experience of using analytics and other tools to report on performance of campaigns
• Experience of media relations and evaluating media coverage and PR
• Experience of using social media as a professional communications tool
• Experience of producing and editing photo and video content
• Experience of using software including Microsoft, Canva or other design tools, Google Ads, analytics tools, email marketing platforms, website CMS systems (we use Wordpress) and charity databases (we use Raiser’s Edge)
• Organised and able to keep good records for data protection, confidentiality and financial purposes
• Knowledge of the digital charity landscape, including best practice for social media, web content creation and engagement strategies

Other

• Full driving licence required as regular travel across the county will be part of the role, in particular to our retail stores and events. Some national travel may be necessary on occasion.

General

We offer the following competitive benefits package:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Hybrid working arrangements
• Life Assurance and Group Pension Fund
• Season ticket loan
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working policy
• Employee assistance programme

ABOUT THE ROLE

Variety is looking for a Social Media Officer to join our Fundraising and Marketing team. Reporting to the PR and Communications Manager, the role will be vital in positioning Variety as a highly impactful charity and supporting our mission to fund life-changing practical support to disabled and disadvantaged children and young people across the UK.

You will be responsible for creatively growing our social media channels to increase engagement and reach new audiences. This includes content planning and ensuring our channels reflect Variety’s campaigns, programmes and brand. You’ll lead on community management and play a key role in developing and maintaining the charity’s content library.

Working closely with colleagues across the organisation, you will help create integrated social media plans and support live coverage from our wide range of fundraising and cause-led events. You’ll have opportunities to attend events and work directly with the children and families we support, helping to bring their stories to life.

Highly organised and creative, you will be confident in adapting content for different channels, ensuring it is delivered in the right format, tone and style for each audience.

You will be working with a supportive and knowledgeable team who regularly work from our vibrant office in the heart of Camden, London.

This role will require a DBS check.

ABOUT VARIETY

In the UK, there are more than 1.3 million disabled children and nearly 4 million children living in poverty. Variety exists to improve their lives. We believe every child has a right to live their best life and reach their full potential, whoever they are. We fund and deliver life-changing programmes that enhance their quality of life and give children and young people across the UK a better future.

Over the past 75 years we have supported over one million children by funding almost 6,000 Sunshine Coaches, almost the same number of wheelchairs, and giving thousands of grants to individual children, schools, youth clubs and other organisations for specialist equipment.

In addition, each year thousands of children take part in day trips, special events and educational activities as part of our Variety Great Days Out programme and every single day we are improving more young lives. We do it with practical, tangible help, that makes a real and immediate difference.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

● Manage social media accounts (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn) and engage with audiences, including Variety ambassadors.

● Keep the social media schedule up to date (using Hootsuite) with consistent posting and avoiding clashes by planning in advance.

● Create engaging content that aligns with our overall mission by interviewing beneficiaries, creating graphics on Canva and filming reels and videos.

● Ensure social media content is child-centric and accessible.

● Attend events to capture social media content (these will always be pre-agreed in advance).

● Undertake analysis of social media outputs to ensure content is engaging and effective and then shape future content based on learnings.

● Community management of our social media channels, responding to posts and engaging with followers.

● Keep up to date with the industry by horizon scanning the charity sector and social media generally for the latest trends.

● Support the PR and Communications Manager as needed.

● Participate in staff meetings, fundraising team meetings and contribute to the success of Variety’s fundraising and communications strategy.

● Any other duties as required.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

Essential

● Experience with Canva, Hootsuite and all social media platforms.

● Experience planning and scheduling social media content for a charity or similar organisation.

● Excellent copywriting skills.

● Experience using social media analytics tools.

● Understanding of GDPR and consent.

● Enthusiastic, organised and a creative self-starter.

● Understanding of the latest trends, technologies and standards in social media.

Desirable

● Experience of working with children or young people.

● Experience editing videos and photos.

● Experience interviewing beneficiaries.

● Understanding of disability, diversity and equality issues.

● Experience working for a charity.

MAIN BENEFITS, TERMS AND CONDITIONS

25 days holiday pro-rata (we also normally give between Christmas and New Year off, but this is not contractual). In addition, after one year's continuous service, there will be an extra two days annual holiday for every complete year of service, up to a maximum of five days' extra holiday (pro-rata).

• Pension ER contribution 7%
• Life Assurance 4% of annual salary
• Company sick pay scheme
• Medicash scheme

Department: Fundraising and Marketing

Reporting to: PR and Communications Manager

Salary: £30,000 - £32,000 (based on experience) pro rata

Location: Variety HQ, Camden Town, London (hybrid working)

Contract: Part-time, permanent

Working hours: 14 hours per week, flexible and hours to be arranged with Line Manager

Please submit your CV with a covering letter explaining why you’d make a great candidate for this role. Applications will close on 2 January 2026 at 5pm with interviews taking place week commencing 12 January. 

We expect demand for this role to be high and will be shortlisting as applications arrive and suggest early submission.  Please let us know if you have any accessibility requirements or need any adjustments for the interview.

EQUALITY DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Inclusion is one of our key values and it is our ambition to recruit great people from diverse communities.  We welcome and encourage applications from suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment/identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy/maternity and or marriage/civil partnership status, race, religion or belief.

Please let us know if you have any access requirements which we might need to consider in relation to the selection process.

About the Role

Do you have a creative flair and a passion for collaboration? We’re looking for someone to help shape and deliver a public engagement and events programme that showcases Headway East London’s occupational projects in art, food and music, strengthens partnerships, and raises awareness of brain injury.

The role is to work closely with our members, you will co-produce events, workshops and creative projects that highlight their experiences and talents. Also, nurture and develop relationships with partners and stakeholders, identify new opportunities for collaboration and ensure members are meaningfully involved in all aspects of engagement.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Public Engagement Programme Delivery

• Support the delivery of a public engagement programme that raises awareness of brain injury and showcase our creative work in art, food, and music.
• Work closely with the Director of Development and staff teams to identify and develop opportunities for public engagement (e.g. exhibitions, performances, and community events).

​Member Co-production and Creative Participation

• Work closely with members to support their participation in projects and events, ensuring their voices and experiences contribute to the planning and delivery.
• Support in facilitating steering groups or member planning sessions to shape ideas and gather feedback for improvements.

Partnerships and External Relationships

• Support in building and maintaining positive relationships with local organisations, cultural venues, and community partners to broaden our reach and profile.
• Represent Headway East London at events, meetings and community forums, acting as a positive ambassador for the organisation and its members.

 Event, Operations and Delivery

• Support all logistical aspects of events, including venue booking, liaising with suppliers, organising materials, and coordinating volunteers.
• Contribute to event promotion and audience engagement, including managing guest lists, ticketing, and attendee communications.

Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting

• Support the collection of feedback, stories, and data from events and projects to evaluate their success and impact.
• Support with monitoring and reporting processes that inform fundraising, communications, and project planning. 

Key Relationships - Internal and External

Internal: All staff, Members (service users) and their families, Volunteers

External: Public audiences - supporters and funders Partner organisations, Corporate stakeholders, Contractors

Other

Apply the Headway East London values and behaviours to every aspect of the role at all times.

Protect and enhance the interests and reputation of Headway East London internally and externally.

Commit to the organisational principles of: coproduction equity, diversity and inclusion sustainability.

Headway East London is an Equal Opportunities Employer and we are committed to ensuring that all staff are motivated, skilled and rewarded by their work. We welcome applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, colour, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age and other protected status as required by law. We promote and protect human rights; they are the foundation of what we do. We want to be an inclusive place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come and contribute their unique strengths and perspectives. We are focused on equality and believe that all the fascinating characteristics that make us different, make us more able to deliver our life-changing work with passion and creativity.

Job Profile

Reporting to the Managing Director, you will lead on the recruitment, retention, and value growth of Afghanaid’s supporter base by directing and implementing communications, fundraising and engagement strategies, aligned with broader organisation goals. Designing and managing a tight budget, you will direct the Communication and Giving unit to maximise their success.

You will provide strategic and supervisory oversight of fundraising income from individual giving, regular giving, major donors, trusts and foundations, corporates, community and student fundraising and events, managing annual fundraising appeals and driving organisational unrestricted income growth. 

You will lead on communications for Afghanaid, overseeing print, digital, and paid marketing activities and the growth of communications channels. You will execute Afghanaid’s organisational brand strategy which ensures the integrity of the brand and maximises awareness. You will manage all public relations including crisis communications, as well as the growth of strategic media placements and high profile relationships. You will drive the success of organisational impact storytelling and communications for both internal and external stakeholders. As a member of the executive department, you will collaborate and synergise with other departments to promote organisational success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive organisational strategy, culture and cross-department collaboration to advance Afghanaid’s mission and objectives.

• Lead development and delivery of Communications, Engagement and Fundraising strategies and work plans.

• Line manage and develop a high-performing team, including staff, volunteers and interns.

• Build and maintain relationships with consultants, agencies and pro bono partners.

• Oversee budgets, reporting and data-driven performance management to ensure efficiency and impact.

• Promote a positive and cohesive London team environment, coordinating hybrid working, inductions and HR support.

• Oversee public fundraising strategy across multiple income streams.

• Lead design and delivery of internal and external appeals, campaigns and donor stewardship.

• Identify new funding opportunities, partnerships and innovation in engagement.

• Oversee the full range of Afghanaid’s event portfolio, and attend relevant events to represent Afghanaid;

• Ensure effective CRM management, data integrity and financial reconciliation.

• Serve as brand guardian, ensuring consistency and evolution of Afghanaid’s identity.

• Oversee creation and execution of integrated communications and marketing plans.

• Direct production of engaging digital and print content, including newsletters, social media, and fundraising collateral.

• Manage website optimisation, SEO and analytics to drive engagement and conversions.

• Lead innovation in digital marketing, email campaigns and supporter journeys.

• Advise leadership on reputation management and crisis communications.

• Develop media policies and act as spokesperson when required.

• Manage proactive and reactive media relations, building relationships with journalists, influencers and advocates.

• Promote Afghanaid’s thought leadership through strategic storytelling and public commentary.

• Commission and direct multimedia content to strengthen organisational storytelling.

• Lead content planning, production and performance analysis.

• Champion participatory storytelling approaches and creative innovation.

Undertake any other duties as and when required by the line director.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

You will be an experienced and dynamic communicator with significant demonstrable experience in fundraising and/or communications at a senior level, coupled with an awareness and up to date knowledge and experience of the tools that would maximise the success of our communications and fundraising activities. In addition, you will have excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to confidently build and maintain strong relationships with a diverse group of stakeholders. Possessing strong management skills, you will have experience of managing small multi-disciplinary teams, providing direction and leadership to enable development and high performance, and the ability to role-model a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion.

Education/ Training

Master’s Degree in communications, marketing, public fundraising or another relevant field (or at least 5-years’ experience).

Work Experience

• At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising, supporter engagement or communications, with at least 2 years’ experience directly managing staff.

• Experience developing and leading integrated multi-channel and multi-stakeholder communications, engagement and/or fundraising strategies.

• Experience in growing audiences, engagement and/or income streams.

• Experience communicating about and/or fundraising for and/or maintaining engagement with Afghanistan or a similar context.

• Experience using KPIs and data to make data-driven decisions to improve efficacy and efficiency.

• Experience managing and monitoring a tight budget.

• Experience conceptualising, producing and commissioning multimedia content, from marketing and fundraising collateral to audiovisual content.

• Experience running full-funnel, multi-channel marketing strategies including paid advertising.

• Understanding of risks associated with communications, public fundraising, and NGO operating contexts, and experience in mitigating those risks.

• Experience supervising, organising, motivating and developing staff.

• In depth knowledge of trends in storytelling, brand, PR, marketing and fundraising.

Professional Skills, Competencies, Values and Attitudes

Afghanaid’s core values are creativity, fairness and honesty. Our staff is passionate about and proud of Afghanaid. Teamwork is fundamental to our standards and demonstrated by taking initiative, assisting others and taking on additional responsibilities and tasks if necessary. We are results driven, committed and motivated to achieve targets and take accountability for our own actions.

Specifically, the holder of this position should also demonstrate the following:

Essential

• Fluent in spoken and written English. 

• Track record of increasing audiences, fundraising totals and engagement metrics from multiple different sources, with a strong business development mindset.

• Experience securing five or six figure gifts from funders;

• Solutions and results orientated; energised by thinking outside the box, and by finding and pursuing novel or innovative approaches and solutions.

• Experience using Salesforce CRM and Marketing Cloud

• Skilled at spotting and prioritising opportunities and synergies, and effective in securing wide-ranging forms of engagement and partnership.

• Excellent listening, speaking and writing skills; strong capabilities of persuasion and a proven track record of uniting people around a common goal.

• Multimedia skills, with knowledge, experience and enthusiasm in driving digital innovation.

• Highly organised with strong leadership and project management skills, able to collaboratively manage competing priorities with senior and junior colleagues.

• Demonstrably skilled brand custodian, able to mitigate risks, anticipate and capitalise upon opportunities, and strengthen reputation.

• Capable of working independently as well as collaboratively, both in leading a team and as part of the team.

• Passionate about driving change, and inspiring individuals and groups to support a cause to deliver that change.

Desirable

• Experience working within an international development or humanitarian context, particularly with causes related to Afghanistan

• Strategic understanding of UK and global fundraising landscapes and emerging giving trends.

• Proven ability to represent an organisation publicly with confidence, professionalism and credibility.

• Experience guiding senior leaders or trustees on media, communications and reputational matters.

• Skilled in crisis communications and reputation management.

• Understanding of inclusive and ethical storytelling practices, with sensitivity to safeguarding considerations.

• Experience developing high-value corporate or media partnerships.

• Comfortable working in a fast-moving, resource-limited environment and adapting to changing external circumstances.

The Organisation

Afghanaid is a British humanitarian and development organisation. For over forty years, our dedicated personnel have worked with millions of families in some of the poorest and most remote communities in Afghanistan. We build basic services, improve livelihoods, strengthen the rights of women and children, help communities protect against natural disasters and adapt to climate change, and respond to humanitarian emergencies. We are headquartered in Kabul, and operate provincial and district offices across Afghanistan, as well as a Marketing and Fundraising office in London. We employ around 500 personnel, 97% of whom are Afghans.

Other Information

Afghanaid’s core values are creativity, fairness and honesty. Our staff are passionate about and proud to work at Afghanaid. Teamwork is fundamental to our standards and demonstrated by taking initiative, assisting others and taking on additional responsibilities and tasks if necessary. We are results driven, committed and motivated to achieve targets and take accountability for our own actions.

Our remuneration and benefits package is competitive with other similar organisations. 

This position presents an excellent opportunity for someone who has the ambition and determination to move up in their career.