Procurement jobs

About Us

Harris Garrard Academy is an all-through 3–18 academy with approximately 1500 pupils on roll and joined the Harris Federation as a sponsored academy in September 2017. In our recent 2021 Ofsted inspection the Academy was rated GOOD in all areas on a strong and consistent trajectory of improvement. The academy is based in Thamesmead in a purpose built building. We are now on a journey towards “Outstanding”, led by highly experienced executive principals with proven track records of school transformation. Our vision is clear: nothing is impossible and everything is possible, irrespective of personal characteristics or background. Every problem has a solution. We believe we are more robust, resilient and determined as a team than as a group of individuals. We support, challenge and hold each other to account at all levels within the academy to ensure that our students achieve their potential, are motivated, engaged and fully prepared for life beyond our academy. 

Why work at Harris Garrard Academy?

• The opportunity to be involved in the continued transformation of a school  
• A stunning working environment, in a purpose-built school designed by Norman Foster and nominated for the Stirling Prize for architecture in 2004  
• A highly motivated team, led by exceptionally experienced and talented senior leaders  
• FREE on site gym available to staff with a number of staff sport clubs 
• All the advantages of a successful academy group, with a strong central team of support, teaching and leadership staff  
• Generous Harris rewards and benefits package  

Summary

We are looking for a highly organised and experienced HR Manager to lead and manage all aspects of human resources within Harris Garrard Academy. This pivotal role encompasses recruitment, payroll administration, staff welfare, compliance, and governance support.

You will work closely with the Principal and senior leadership team to ensure the effective delivery of HR services aligned with Federation policies and employment legislation.

The role is a 12 month fixed-term contract.

Main Areas of Responsibility

Your responsibilities will include:

• Managing the recruitment and appointments process
• Ensuring the accuracy of the Academy’s single central record
• Payroll and all associated business
• Auditing staff sickness records and preparing termly reports
• Organising and maintaining confidential staff files
• Additional HR tasks as directed, including include referrals to occupational health, organising interviews with the Principal and liaising with staff representatives
• Working closely with the Business Manager/Principal’s PA to produce salary assessments
• Directing staff to the correct source of information regarding pensions, salaries, maternity, grievance, complaints etc.

For a full list of responsibilities, please download the Job Pack.

Qualifications & Experience

We would like to hear from you if you have:

• At least three years’ experience working in an office environment
• Experience of training staff successfully in a range of duties
• Experience of working as part of a team
• Educated to degree level or Equivalent
• Knowledge of Microsoft software packages
• Knowledge of Health and Safety legislation
• Secure Knowledge of Human resources legislation
• Basic knowledge of financial procedures
• Training and Certification in a broad range of Health and Safety areas
• Knowledge of procurement processes
• Knowledge of the key principles of staff management

For the full job specification, please download the Job Pack.

Professional Development & Benefits

Our people are at the heart of our success. We have developed a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level.

In addition to the opportunities for career development and progression, we also offer a competitive rewards and benefits package which includes our Harris Allowance for teachers on MPS/UPS, a Performance and Loyalty Bonus, Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions, a Wellbeing Cash Plan and many other benefits. Learn more about  on our website.

Safeguarding Notice

The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed.

Equal Opportunities

The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected. We aim to be an inclusive employer that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment.

Next Steps

If you have any questions about this opportunity, please send us an email, or call to arrange a conversation.

Before applying, please download the Job Pack for full details on the job responsibilities and person specification. This will be helpful for you when completing your application, and throughout the recruitment process.

We encourage you to apply as soon as possible as we may interview and offer to a candidate before the closing date. Please note that we only accept applications submitted before the closing date via our careers website.  

At Avenues Group we believe in creating opportunities for people with disabilities and autism to live the life they choose. We’re growing – and we need a skilled, strategic, and inspiring Bid Manager to help us get there.

This senior role in our Business Development team will put you at the heart of securing new opportunities, driving quality tender submissions, and guiding colleagues to produce bids that win. You’ll combine project leadership, strategic thinking, and persuasive writing to help us achieve sustainable growth and make a real difference in communities.

What you’ll do:

• Lead and manage tender applications from start to finish – on time, high quality, and competitive.
• Oversee pricing strategies, guiding our approach to costings and value.
• Craft compelling, evidence-based submissions that stand out.
• Work with colleagues across the organisation, influencing and motivating them to meet deadlines and deliver excellence.
• Build a library of winning content and continually improve our processes.
• Use market intelligence and innovation (including AI tools) to keep us ahead of the curve.

What you’ll bring:

• Proven senior experience in bid/tender management (health & social care knowledge is a bonus).
• Expertise in public sector procurement processes.
• Outstanding writing skills – able to turn complex ideas into clear, persuasive narratives.
• Strong project management, research, and digital skills.
• Commercial acumen and the drive to deliver results.
• A passion for making a difference and living our mission

Why join us?

This isn’t just another bid role — it’s your chance to lead strategically, innovate boldly, and directly contribute to life-changing work. You’ll have the autonomy to shape our bid approach while being part of a supportive, purpose-driven organisation.

As part of our commitment to the “Disability Confident Scheme”, candidates who declare a disability, and meet the key criteria for this role, will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities at interview stage.  

Apply now and lead bids that change lives. For an informal chat about the role, contact our recruitment team today or apply now and we will be in touch.

We’re looking for an exceptional leader to join Community Action Redbridge as  our new Operations Director – a pivotal role at the heart of our organisation.

With an income of just under £1 million and a diverse portfolio of new and established grant-funded programmes, we’re entering a period of transformation, with ambitious plans to grow our impact and strengthen our organisational resilience.

At the heart of our work is a commitment to social justice and to tackling the root causes of inequality. We’re passionate about shifting power, amplifying community voices, and working collaboratively to create social change. 

The Head of Finance is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for leading the financial strategy, planning, and operations of the organization. This role requires a strong leader with proven expertise in corporate finance, financial planning and analysis, risk management, and compliance. The Head of Finance will play a critical role in driving sustainable growth, improving profitability, and ensuring sound financial governance.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement financial strategies that align with the company’s vision, goals, and growth objectives.

• Act as a strategic advisor to the CEO and Board on financial performance, risk, and opportunities.

• Provide insights and recommendations to support long-term decision-making and business development.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.

• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial reports, statements, and regulatory filings.

• Monitor financial performance against budgets and benchmarks, highlighting risks and opportunities.

Risk & Compliance

• Establish and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard company assets.

• Ensure compliance with statutory, tax, and regulatory requirements.

• Proactively identify and mitigate financial risks, including currency, interest rate, and credit exposures.

Operational Excellence

• Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team to achieve high performance.

• Oversee treasury, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and procurement functions.

• Drive process improvements, automation, and use of financial systems to enhance efficiency.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Manage relationships with external stakeholders including auditors, banks, investors, and regulators.

• Support fundraising, mergers & acquisitions, and investment initiatives as required.

• Communicate complex financial information in a clear and actionable way to non-financial stakeholders.

Qualifications & Experience

• Professional finance qualification (e.g., CPA, ACA, ACCA, CFA) strongly preferred.

• 10+ years of progressive finance leadership experience, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.

• Proven track record in financial strategy, planning, and execution within a growing or complex organization.

• Strong understanding of corporate finance, tax, compliance, and risk management.

• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, influence stakeholders, and drive business performance.

• Experience in charity sector an advantage

Skills & Competencies

• Strategic and analytical thinker with strong business acumen.

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• High level of integrity, accountability, and attention to detail.

• Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, dynamic environments.

• Strong technical proficiency with financial systems and data analysis tools.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

• Opportunity to shape the financial future of a growing organization.

• Collaborative and inclusive work environment.

• Professional development and career growth opportunities.

About the Role

As our Housing Coordinator you will ensure The Angelou Centre’s refuge accommodations continue to be a safe and welcoming safe for women. You will ensure we comply with statutory building, property and Health & Safety obligations. You will be responsible for ensuring health and safety compliance, coordinating repairs and maintenance, managing tenancy-related matters, and supporting the wellbeing of women and children accessing our refuge services. You will also line mange our Refuge and Housing Support Workers and our Haven Finance Officer

Our ideal candidate is someone who;

• Is compassionate, non-judgmental and committed to supporting survivors of domestic abuse
• Has experience of working within property, housing or facilities management
• Has excellent knowledge within health & safety, building and property UK regulations
• Has line management experience

Role Overview

Contract: Full-time Permanent,

with possibility of extension subject to funding

Salary: £30,303 to £35,781.20 (per hour £16.65 to £19.66)

Depending on experience and qualifications

Hours & Days35 hours a week

                                        Monday to Fridays 9am to 5pm                                

Additional benefits 25 days paid holiday,

employer’s pension contribution of 6%,

enhanced maternity leave

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne

 Key Responsibilities

 Refuge Management

• Ensure that the refuge (dispersed accommodation) provides a safe supportive and welcoming environment in compliance with UK housing laws and the requirements of registered social landlords.
• To ensure completion of all necessary forms including housing and welfare benefit forms. 
• To liaise with statutory and voluntary agencies and networks, e.g. Housing Benefit -Networks/Housing agencies 
• Action any breaches of leases or tenancy agreements promptly and efficiently to ensure compliance with lease/tenancy obligations.
• Proactively address any arrears in a timely fashion and take appropriate action to recover debts.
• Working as a key part of our management team, supporting the Executive Director with planning, monitoring, evaluation and development planning
• Encouraging a positive and supportive environment in the refuge, ensuring that women’s and children’s voices are heard and central to our services
• Working in partnership with voluntary and statutory organisations, including Local Authorities and Children’s Social Care and other external agencies, keeping up to date with local resources and services available
• Ensuring any safeguarding issues for children or vulnerable adults are raised immediately as per our safeguarding policies
• To provide business development support in order to grow and develop The Angelou’s refuge services

Health & Safety

• Taking the lead in all Health & Safety issues for the Refuge service, ensuring compliance with policies and legislation, with responsibility for risk assessments, accident reporting, fire safety, repairs and maintenance issues etc,
• To update policies to align with changing requirements.
• To provide technical support on property-related problems.
• To undertake site inspections and to write follow up reports and action plans.
• To maintain the property database.

Line Management

• Engaging all team members in regular service reviews to promote best practice
• Managing and participating in the on-call support rota, responding to emergencies outside office hours on a rota basis
• Ensure staff are fully trained and able to carry out their duties

In order to deliver services effectively, a degree of flexibility is required and the post holder may be required to perform work not specifically referred to above. Such duties however, will fall within the scope of the job at the appropriate grade. This job description will be subjected to review, to ensure that it accurately reflects the duties and range of the post.

Person Specification

Experience & Abilities

• Housing/property management experience in a refuge or supported housing setting
• Experience of line management and project management
• Experience of property agreements, drafting and signing them
• Experience of risk assessment, fire safety protocols and managing maintenance schedules
• Experience in procurement of supplies, consultants and contractors
• Experience in site inspections, writing report and action plans
• Able to build and sustain external professional relationships
• Able to priorities workload and work independently using your own initiative  

Knowledge & Qualifications

• An excellent knowledge of UK health and safety, fire safety and housing compliance regulations  
• An excellent understanding of UK policies and legislation around domestic abuse
• Good knowledge of UK adult safeguarding regulations.
• A good understanding of confidentiality and anti-discriminatory practice; safe practice and health and safety procedures
• Line management or supervisory experience
• NEBOSH General Certificate, NVQ Level 3/ 4 in Health & Safety, or IOSH Managing Safety

Values & Approach

• Commitment to anti-racist, trauma-informed, and feminist practice.
• Empathy, kindness, and cultural competence, with a commitment to supporting Black and racially minoritised women
• Has a ‘can do’ positive approach with a curious open to learning approach
• Able to work flexibly and respond to crisis situations with a trauma-informed approach
• Has a commitment to shared responsibility in a team context approach
•  Willingness to undertake training and show a commitment to continuous personal development, reflecting on own practice with a willingness to make changes if needed

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in business development
• Valid UK driver’s license and access to a car
• Skilled in financial management and able to project financial reports
• Experience in crisis management
• Experience working in the VAWG/Women rights sector
• An excellent understanding of domestic abuse and of UK policies and legislation around domestic abuse

This is an exceptional opportunity to be at the heart of a truly exciting heritage restoration project to restore, renew and open up to new audiences, a nationally-important building in a thriving but economically and socially challenged central London neighbourhood.

St Peter’s Walworth is Sir John Soane’s first London church and one of only four Grade 1-listed buildings in Southwark. We have secured a major grant of £438,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) for Development Phase funding for the “Building Beyond: Soane Reimagined” project with a view to work towards a Delivery phase grant of £3.1m. The Development Phase is now underway, with the first major procurements completed, and is set to run for 18 months, at which point a Delivery Round application will be submitted to activate a Delivery Phase. Design development needs to be completed to RIBA Stage 3, planning, Faculty and consents need to be in place and all partnership funding raised or pledged. Our fundraising target is challenging – we will need to secure more than £1m with a focus on trusts and foundations, alongside strategic partnerships. We have already engaged a consultant to develop our Fundraising Strategy and Case for Support, and that consultant will be able to work alongside the Fundraising Manager to get them off to a strong start.

The Church has excellent local networks, an active steering group including external professional expertise, a progressive and outward-facing Rector with a strong social media following, and a strong relationship with potential donors and partners with funds already secured from Southwark Council. We have strong foundations to build upon but there is no doubt we have a challenge ahead of us. We would love to hear your application.

The Organisation

This is a globally active organisation in the international development and human rights sector, with an annual income exceeding £5 million. It works across multiple regions to drive systemic change through advocacy, partnerships, and strategic programmes. The organisation is values-led, impact-focused, and committed to safeguarding, inclusion, and long-term sustainability.

The Job

We are recruiting a Head of Finance on behalf of a high-impact international organisation. This role will oversee strategic financial planning, compliance, and operational finance across a multi-currency, multi-country environment. You'll lead a team of three finance professionals and be responsible for budgeting, forecasting, statutory reporting, grant management, procurement, payroll, pensions, and financial systems. The role includes regular reporting to the Board of Trustees and collaboration with senior leaders to ensure financial integrity and value for money. This is a hybrid role based in London, with occasional international travel.

The Person

You are a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with at least five years' post-qualified experience in a senior finance role within the not-for-profit, international development, or social enterprise sector. You bring strong technical expertise in financial management, grant compliance, and strategic planning, ideally gained in a multi-currency environment. You're confident in presenting to Boards and donors, and proficient in financial systems such as Sun Systems, SAP Concur, QuickBooks or Sage. Advanced Excel skills are essential. You're a collaborative leader who can build capacity across teams, inspire a culture of financial excellence, and drive continuous improvement.

What's in It for You?

- Salary: £57,000 per annum, with annual increments
- Pension: Generous 10% employer contribution
- Contract: 2-year fixed term, with strong potential to become permanent
- Location: London-based, hybrid working (2 days onsite per week)
- International Travel: Opportunities to travel globally as needed
- Culture: Inclusive, values-driven environment committed to diversity, equity, safeguarding, and professional development

Please apply now to be considered!

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We are delighted to be supporting a UK higher education institution in their search for a temporary Executive Assistant to join their team. This is a full-time role offering a fantastic opportunity to provide high-level executive support while contributing to key projects, events and strategic initiatives.

This is a great opportunity for someone with strong organisational skills, excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities for this role include:

• Providing executive administrative support to the Director of Education and Student Experience and senior leadership team.
• Managing complex diaries, prioritising commitments and acting as a first point of contact for senior stakeholders.
• Supporting projects, drafting reports and briefing papers, and monitoring progress against deadlines.
• Organising meetings, events and away days, ensuring smooth delivery of logistics and communications.
• Assisting with financial and HR administration, including budgets, procurement and staff induction.
• Maintaining accurate records, handling confidential information, and supporting process improvements.

To be considered for this position, you should possess:

• Proven experience as an Executive or Personal Assistant supporting senior leaders.
• Excellent planning, prioritisation and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with impeccable attention to detail.
• High-level IT proficiency including MS Office.
• The ability to act with discretion, initiative and professionalism at all times.
• Experience within higher education or a similar environment is desirable.

If you're looking to make a meaningful contribution in a dynamic and influential role, we'd love to hear from you.

Please apply below and submit your CV in Word format.

As a specialist Recruitment Practice, we are committed to building inclusive and diverse organisations, and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you in your application.

Senior Finance Business Partner: £80,000 - £92,000 | Birmingham | Hybrid

For Europe's largest infrastructure project, we are recruiting a Senior Finance Business Partner to drive accountability and focus on cost control for the Corporate Services Directorate. This is a key role measuring and reporting on financial performance and promoting effective decision-making of direct and indirect costs. Reporting to the Head of Finance Business Partnering and providing oversight, control and direction to a team of up to 4 Finance Business Partners, this role is key in ensuring the financial targets and value for money are met.

Main Duties:

• Manage, and develop the Finance Business Partner team to embed and drive a cost control and productivity focused culture across the directorate
• Lead the business case development process - reviewing and challenging funding requests to ensure they represent value for money
• Support business performance management, enabling senior executives to effectively manage their budgets
• Manage a diverse range of stakeholder groups with competing priorities and deliver tactical productivity initiatives across business areas
• Interpret and provide insightful analysis from management reports to enable effective decision-making processes across the senior management team
• Oversee the month-end financial close, preparing accounts, completing monthly analysis, variance analysis and assurance of reporting packs
• Support the business through annual business planning and budgeting. Provide quarterly re-forecasts working with non-finance executives
• Submit cash flows for business areas to supporting funding requirements
• Identify and implement process improvements, and drive the adoption of consistent reporting and financial processes across the finance business partnering, commercia and programme teams
• Provide first-class business partnering support to the business, reviewing and challenging forecasts and variances

Person Specification:

• Qualified accountant with strong experience of leading and managing finance business partnering teams
• Experience leading annual business planning and budget setting processes in complex, matrix managed organisations - ideally infrastructure programmes.
• Strong skills in business partnering key executive level stakeholder groups including planning, procurement, contract management and HR teams.
• Ability to critically review and challenge forecasts, assessing affordability, value for money and the impact om programme delivery

________

As an employer, we are committed to ensuring the representation of people from all backgrounds regardless of their gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, or any other aspect which makes them unique. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and would encourage you to let us know if there are steps, we can take to ensure that your recruitment process enables you to present yourself in a way that makes you comfortable.

The Food Foundation is an award winning charity with a vision of a sustainable food system which delivers health and well-being for all. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where every team member feels valued and empowered. We believe that embracing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is fundamental to our success and the positive impact we make. 

Job purpose
The Place-based Food Systems Manager will play a leading role in the development of The Food Foundation’s local policy and project work in 3 interconnected ways:

1.  Stimulating and supporting leadership in regions, cities, local authority areas and anchor institutions to take action to improve local access to affordable, healthy and sustainable food
2. Identifying the policy and food business levers which enable the emergence of more resilient local food systems which improve access to affordable, healthy and sustainable food in local communities
3. Advocating for national and local policy changes which enable local leadership and new food systems to become more rapidly established.

In the first instance, you will play a leading role in our place-based work in Kent and Birmingham, in particular focused on improving the health and sustainability of menus and business offerings through the promotion of beans, pulses and legumes. You will work closely with Birmingham City Council and The University of Kent, as well as local leaders, partners,
local authorities, policymakers and businesses. You will work closely with academic partners on UKRI funded research projects that support place-based interventions and local authorities in creating healthier more sustainable local food systems.

The successful candidate will also play a key role in our nationally focused policy and advocacy on healthy and sustainable diets, supporting a team working on public sector procurement, production (horticulture) and other food policy areas that intersect health, sustainability and climate. This will involve engagement with relevant DEFRA teams, as well as other NGOs
working in the sustainable diet space.

The role will work across both the Policy and Food Business Transformation teams at The Food Foundation, as well as on the health and sustainability policy asks across the organisation. The unique placement of the role, working on place based initiatives as well as with national policy and businesses, will help to bridge the gap and identify areas of synergy between national and local policy, and between national and local policymakers, as well as the role and opportunity
for food businesses in this area.This is a new role in an exciting new team at the Food Foundation, with scope to work with us in shaping the role’s priorities in the coming months.

Salary: £80,000–£90,000 WTE (4 days a week preferable)
Location: Hybrid (Central London office with flexible working)
Closing date: 7th September
Contact: Rosemary Pini, Allen Lane  

An opportunity to shape a better future for children across the UK.

Thrive at Five is seeking a strategic and hands-on Finance Director to join the organisation at an exciting time of growth. With programmes now live in Stoke-on-Trent, Redcar and Cleveland, and Middlesbrough—and a new site expected to launch in Scotland later this year—this is a pivotal role supporting national expansion and long-term impact.

As a national charity, Thrive at Five helps children in their early years build strong foundations for life and learning. Working in some of the UK’s most disadvantaged communities, the charity empowers parents and carers while enabling collaborative, place-based action across local systems of support. This work is already making a difference, with early progress recognised in Parliament and featured in recent government initiatives.

The Role

The Finance Director will provide strategic financial leadership across the charity, supporting its mission through robust financial management, long-term planning, and operational oversight. As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the postholder will work closely with the CEO, trustees, and place-based programme teams to ensure the organisation remains sustainable, agile, and mission-driven.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading financial strategy, planning, and forecasting
• Overseeing financial operations, systems, and compliance
• Managing restricted and unrestricted funds, budgets, audits, and risk
• Providing high-quality financial reporting to the Board and Finance & Risk Committee
• Supporting fundraising through effective bid modelling and financial insight
• Line-managing and developing finance team members

This is a hybrid role based in Central London (currently Victoria), with flexibility and occasional travel to programme locations.

The Person

Thrive at Five is looking for a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) with significant experience at Finance Director or senior finance leadership level—ideally within the charity or not-for-profit sector.

The ideal candidate will bring:

• A strong understanding of charity finance, including SORP and fund accounting
• Experience of strategic financial planning and risk management
• A collaborative, solutions-focused mindset with excellent interpersonal skills
• The ability to influence at senior levels and build effective cross-functional relationships
• A commitment to Thrive at Five’s mission and values, and a willingness to roll up their sleeves in a growing, fast-paced organisation

Why Join Thrive at Five?

• Purpose-led work: Help give every child the best start in life
• Growth opportunity: Join a high-profile, ambitious charity on a national trajectory
• Flexible working: Hybrid model with supportive culture and work-life balance
• Influence and impact: Be part of a close-knit leadership team shaping strategy and systems
• Professional development: Thrive at Five supports continuous learning and personal growth

How to Apply

To apply, please send a CV and supporting statement.

For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact:
Rosemary Pini, Business Managerfrom Allen Lane

The Catholic Diocese of Northampton covers the traditional counties of Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire, together with the town of Slough, a Unitary Authority within Berkshire.

The Diocese is involved in many different areas of life. Not just in parishes, but also in schools, hospitals, prisons and religious communities; working with people with disabilities, and with the young and the old; promoting the value of family and of marriage; caring for the poor, the homeless and those who live at the margins of society.

With its southern edge resting on the Thames and its northern tip in the East Midlands, it is by no means the smallest English diocese. There are 69 principal parishes with another 26 "satellite churches", chapels of ease, and a few more Mass centres in private schools and other institutions. They are served by 48 active diocesan priests, assisted by 12 active priests from other dioceses and 18 from religious orders.

The diocese has 29 schools at primary/infant/junior level, 6 secondary schools, one 4-19 VA through-school, one private primary school, a private prep school, and one private girls’ boarding through-school. Between them they educate some 20,700 pupils.

The diocese is a registered charity, The Northampton Roman Catholic Diocesan Trust, and is also a registered company. The Chief Operating Officer will be the Honorary Secretary to that corporation. There is one active trading subsidiary, RCDN Property Services Ltd, which provides project management for school projects. There are separate Trustees' Property, Investment and Health and Safety Committees.

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will provide strategic and operational leadership across the Diocese, with a particular focus on the effective management of property, land, and other physical assets. The COO will ensure that Diocesan operations support the mission of the Church, are financially sustainable, and are compliant with legal and regulatory requirements. This role is pivotal in safeguarding and enhancing the Diocese’s Mission and the supporting physical estate for current and future generations.

In addition to the statutory and legal and governance responsibilities attached to the role, the Chief Operating Officer is responsible for all the core business functions or finance, facilities, including IT, and HR.

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a dynamic young organisation and take it into the next
phase of its growth. There will be a role in shaping the next steps of the journey, working closely
with the Founder and expanding our presence in the UK. Wherever opportunities for learning and professional development are possible, they will be offered.

We plan to adapt components of our signature programmes to support newly arrived refugee children in
London to thrive. In particular, we want to work with children themselves, as partners and active
participants in building their new lives. For this we will be delivering playful learning sessions in transitional housing, and will be drawing upon our “Partners in Learning” programme,which uses a Child-to-Child model to engage older children to deliver playful early learning sessions to younger children.

SCOPE OF WORK
The role will be full-time contract role for six months with scope for extension, involving the following:

1. Programme support (60%)
● Supporting the adaptation of our programme content for implementation in UK schools, in
consultation with early years teachers.
● Programme implementation support for Playful Learning and Partners in Learning programmes with refugee and asylum-seeking children.
● Supporting the Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning function of the CfC projects, conducting
observations and generating project reports.

2. Local fundraising
● Identifying opportunities and assisting with grant applications.
● Accessing diaspora and local philanthropy by planning events.

3. Administrative support
● Keeping abreast of enquiries email account.

● Supporting with logistics and procurement of materials.

.PERSON SPECIFICATION

Experience and knowledge:
● Demonstrable previous experience of working with children and young people in the UK, either
early years or primary school age (can be a non-teaching capacity).
● Relevant academic experience, ideally in social sciences, education, international development or
related field.
● Ability to provide a valid Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) certificate (issued within the last year).
● Excellent written and oral communication skills (English).
● Demonstrably strong research and analytical skills.

Core skills:
● Self-starter, with strong organisational skills able to take initiative and work independently.
● Ability to work with a diverse range of people and in particular to be able to work with and
engage children.
● Ability to self-structure, prioritise workload and manage multiple deadlines.
● Flexibility to adapt to and address the evolving needs of a small organisation.

Desirable criteria:
● Subject specific knowledge in education, child psychology or child development, particularly in
the UK.
● Understanding of social research methods - designing and conducting face-to-face interviews
facilitating focus group discussions etc.

● Grant-writing or proposal development experience.
● Prior experience with facilitating children e.g. via theatre groups or in sports.