Programme and partnerships development director jobs

Do you share our dream of a UK where poverty is a thing of the past? 

Founded in 2019, the Poverty Truth Network believes that this can only happen when those most impacted by poverty are at the heart of the movement to end it. Our specific contribution brings together people experiencing poverty with those with responsibilities for alleviating it. “Nothing About Us Without Us Is For Us.” 

Thanks to funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, the PTN is recruiting a Partnerships Manager who will provide management and oversight of key partnerships essential to the delivery of the Network’s Strategic Plan, with a specific focus on the development and delivery of Regional Hubs.

You will have experience of establishing and delivering partnerships; dedicated to social justice; a commitment to collaborative working; and proven management experience.

Key Tasks

• To form part of the Core Leadership Team, providing overall strategic leadership across the Network 
• To manage the Partnership team, setting clear goals and objectives linked to the Strategic Plan 
• To lead on the development and support of Regional Hubs, including support with grant funding and income generation
• To act as the primary point of contact with Regional Hubs, for initial enquiries and ongoing relationships, including with staff and trustees
• To provide oversight of the Network’s Parliamentary work in Westminster and across the devolved administrations
• To oversee the Network’s Learning & Evaluation framework, offering insight and advice as appropriate, ensuring that agreed activities are delivered on time and in budget 
• To be the primary point of contact for partners working alongside the Network to deliver change in line with its Strategic Plan
• To recruit external partners to participate in the Mutual Mentoring programme
• To liaise closely with members of the Amplify Team in the development of national partnerships
• To develop and support work with creative partners to highlight the resilience of those struggling to overcome poverty
• To deputise for the Director as and when required
• To undertake other activities as needed dependent on jobholder’s knowledge, skills and experience

This role involves working from home with some travel.

This exciting new role will fulfil a key function for CCT, as we enter a new five-year strategy. One of the main themes of this strategy is creativity - supporting creative new uses for our sites. To do so effectively will require the post-holder to lead a team charged with building on the success of our Regeneration and Enterprise activities, of recent years, and ensuring the learning from these is applied in the development of future initiatives and partnerships. With hundreds of churches and almost as many creative and enterprising ideas, the job of scrutinising these and working out how we can identify and support the most promising is a challenging and exciting task.

We are looking for a confident and credible leader, with the ability to inspire trust and work collaboratively to bring a strong commercial focus to the Trust’s work, ensuring that initiatives and partnerships are robustly and effectively developed and managed. You will be working closely with colleagues across the Trust to help embed an enterprising culture where ideas are encouraged and their viability assessed openly, robustly, and collaboratively.

The role will support the delivery of existing Regeneration and Enterprise initiatives and partnerships across our estate, in addition to supporting new initiatives and partnership opportunities that we implement. You will lead our internal processes and reporting, to identify and scrutinise the most promising of these opportunities, identified by the wider team. You will bring your expertise, and the resources of your team, to bear in assisting in the development, scrutiny and delivery of these, reviewing and monitoring their commercial performance.

This role will play a key role in capitalising on the successes of the Trust’s longstanding Regeneration programme, which has undertaken pioneering Regeneration projects which have addressed some of our most pressing conservation needs, had wide-ranging wider impacts, and developed new operating models for some of the churches in our care. In addition, it encompasses the work undertaken to develop new commercial income opportunities. Examples are our groundbreaking Champing™ initiative, as well as others such as filming, and other commercial partnerships, including for example those involved in the Van Gogh Immersive Experience, at our church at All Saint’s (Leicester).

If you would like to apply for this role, please visit our recruitment portal to begin your application.

You will be asked to submit a CV and a short supporting statement (max 2 sides A4) outlining why you’d like to apply and how you fulfil the person specification for this post, so you’ll need to refer to the job description.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 8am on 3rd June 2025.

There will be a two-stage interview process with first stage taking place in TBC on 10th June 2025. Please note that the interview date and location have been specifically chosen according to the availability of the panel.

The second stage will take place week commencing 16th June 2025 and will be held in London.

As part of our recruitment process, we undertake candidate psychometric testing, you will receive an email following your application submission asking you to complete a series of activities.

All successful applicants will be subject to a basic DBS, references and right to work checks.

We are a Disability Confident Committed Employer. Candidates who declare that they have a disability and who meet the essential criteria for the job will be offered an interview.

If you have any queries about this role, or if you have a disability and wish to request a reasonable adjustment at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.

We are an inclusive employer and offer equal opportunities to all regardless of an individual’s age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.

We are not a licensed sponsor at this time. Any offer of employment will be made subject to valid right to work in the UK being provided.

The Community Development & Health Programme Manager is responsible for the ongoing strategic development of the programme area, as well as maintaining oversight of the contracted delivery across its broad but integrated remit.  The Programme Manager also has a responsibility to be visible in the communities we serve locally and to attend meetings, events and community profile raising within and without normal working hours, as needed.

This role leads the operational line management and direction of a multidisciplinary team of Project Managers, Seniors & Development Workers, who are themselves are responsible for designing, fundraising for, delivering & evaluating services and activities which cover the needs of the entire community, across the whole age range to meet identified community needs and with a range of VCSE and statutory partners. 

The aim of these activities, services and events is to deliver support, develop learning, and build VCSE infrastructure, capacity and sustainability to deliver individual and community changes for those facing challenges. These currently include community events; community hub development; youth and family work; emergency and community food provision through community supermarkets, East Sussex and Lewes District Food Partnerships; community capacity building; VCSE infrastructure support; healthy lifestyles activities and community-rooted approaches to addressing health inequalities; access to green, open and blue spaces for health and wellbeing; development of active travel; addressing environmental issues and climate change at a community level. 

This work is achieved through the coordination and development of appropriate partnerships, and initiating and delivering activities and services through community development approaches which are community-rooted and build stronger, healthier and inclusive communities.

With responsibility for bid writing in support of SCDA’s charitably funded activities and services, and collaboration on larger tenders for SCDA community initiatives & services, the post holder will ensure quality of provision and that those projects run to agreed budgets and schedules.

Purpose of role: To support the Head of Partnerships in managing and retaining the charity’s existing donor base and in establishing new major donor partnerships to secure significant income for the Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN): an impactful fundraising and grant-giving wildlife conservation NGO focused on supporting grassroots projects across the Global South.

Reports to: Head of Partnerships

Contract: Full-time, permanent contract, working 5 days p/w

Deadline to apply: Friday 23rd May (but please apply at your earliest convenience). Initial interviews will be targeted for end of May.

Whitley Fund for Nature

Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN) is a UK charity supporting 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 Ambassador Sir David Attenborough. Our funding is raised each year, mainly from family trusts and foundations, as well as from individuals, corporates, and international NGOs, with a current annual income of around £2.6m/year. We raise funds based on winner need, and in the coming years are seeking to steadily grow what we provide in support to winners, actively pursuing new partnerships to support our mission.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Partnerships Manager to join our small and dynamic team. This new role will support the Head of Partnerships and wider WFN team in delivering our fundraising strategy, stewarding high-value donor relationships, and unlocking new opportunities for income growth. 

The Partnerships Manager will work directly with some of WFN’s existing portfolio of 30 Major Donors made up primarily of Trusts, Family Foundations and High-Net-Worth Individual (HNWI) supporters, with some Corporates. The Partnerships Manager will maintain close professional relationships with supporters that are bespoke and require excellent interpersonal skills, with most meetings taking place in-person, in central London. 

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a highly respected conservation organisation making a real difference on the ground.

PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER - PERSONAL SPECIFICATION

Essential

• A proven track record of fundraising, donor management, and/or building relationships with stakeholders in the non-profit or philanthropic sector.
• Excellent writing and communication skills, with experience drafting donor materials and reports.
• A proven track record in the development of grant applications, including drafting objectives, activities, timelines, indicators, and budgets, as well as coordinating narrative content and inputs from across the team.
• Past experience coordinating and delivering fundraising and engagement events.
• Experience coordinating volunteer committees.
• Exceptional interpersonal qualities, and comfortable liaising with high-profile individuals and senior stakeholders.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Proactive, dependable, and able to manage multiple priorities.
• A flexible ‘can do’ approach with the ability to chase opportunities, while remaining resilient and positive
• An open and collaborative working style, with a willingness to share information, communicate clearly, and contribute to a supportive small team environment.
• A genuine interest in conservation and/or passion for social and environmental equity through a grassroots approach. 

Desirable

• Experience working with donor databases or Salesforce. 
• Familiarity with trusts and foundations, HNWI fundraising, or corporate partnerships.
• Previous work in a small, agile team or start-up-style organisation.

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.

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 are therefore particularly keen to receive 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 

Donated income – whether from individuals, trusts and foundations, or fundraising events – constitutes approximately 60% JW3’s income. As part of our new organisational five-year strategy, we are set to raise £2.9m in 2025, with a target of £3.5m+ by 2031.

As a key member of JW3's Senior Leadership Team (SLT), you will lead, manage and motivate the small but mighty JW3 Development fundraising team, currently including: Head of Philanthropy, Trust & Foundations Manager, Individual Giving & Legacies Manager, and Fundraising Coordinator. You will work closely with the CEO, Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) and Trustees, to accelerate the growth of fundraising across a diversified range of income streams to achieve long-term, sustainable income growth.

You will have responsibility for further developing and implementing an ambitious fundraising strategy in line with the organisational objectives and priorities. You will work closely with key professional and lay stakeholders - including Trustees - and will be responsible for initiating, developing and sustaining productive relationships with a range of new and existing donors; identifying and developing new prospects; creating and implementing an effective stewardship programme and initiatives; overseeing budgets; and proactively managing individual relationships. You will have the proven ability to build strong personal networks, and to engage and influence senior stakeholders both internally and externally.

If our mission and ambition resonates with you, and you are ready to help drive the next chapter of JW3, we’d love to hear from you!

Full details of the role are outlined in the job pack accessible on JW3's Jobs page.

SCIE Vision 

We are committed to building a society which enables people who draw on social care to live fulfilling lives. 

At the SCIE, we are driven by our values: 

·       Progressive – always learning and developing. 

·       Inclusive – working together for equality, diversity, and fairness. 

·       Credible – evidence-based, robust, and reliable. 

·       Transparent – open and honest. 

The role:

A great opportunity for you to join our small, friendly team and make a real difference to people’s lives by:

Coordinating and bringing together the day-to-day planning, monitoring and tracking of assigned workstreams, to report as per SCIE’s agreed Governance process for the DHSC Programme. 

With a proven ability to draw on and shape, sustain and lead on Programme Management you will coordinate activity that requires collaboration with a range of different stakeholders, creating appropriately robust but flexible processes and structures.

Working closely with responsible Programme Head and Programme Director to support a proactive approach to organisation, problem-solving and innovation. 

What we are looking for:  

Example as below  

• Understanding of project and budget reporting, with the ability to prioritise effectively. 

• Ability to build positive relationships with colleagues and external partners.

• Good oral and written communication skills.   

• Strong planner with good attention to detail, communication, time management and analytical skills.   

• Proven ability to analyse qualitative and quantitative data to report on variances in performance of KPIs. 

• A proactive approach to organisation, problem-solving and innovation. 

• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion 

• Understanding of Social Care Practice

• Experience of leading programmes

• Experience of leading teams

• Experience of using ICT effectively

What we offer in return: 

We offer excellent staff benefits including a competitive salary and homeworking allowance. We provide an employer pension contribution above the statutory minimum, an award-winning employee assistance programme, and an attractive holiday package which rises with length of service. Benefits of working for SCIE can be found here Work for the Social Care Institute for Excellence - SCIE  

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

Programme Director

Location: Kirklees
Salary: £44,000 pro-rata
Hours: 30-37 hours per week (flexible working available)
Job Type: Full time
Contract Type: Permanent

Are you an experienced leader with a passion for community impact and the voluntary sector?

TSL Kirklees is currently recruiting for a new role of Programme Director to lead and coordinate our portfolio of community infrastructure projects. 

This senior leadership role is pivotal in helping us achieve our mission to tackle inequality across Kirklees by strengthening the voice and influence of the local VCSE sector. 

You’ll work closely with our CEO, Trustee Board, partners, and funders to:

• Oversee project delivery and evaluation
• Build strong cross-sector partnerships
• Align operations with strategic goals
• Lead and support a team of project managers

What are we looking for?

We're looking for someone with a collaborative leadership style, able to provide energy, focus and creativity as well as excellent project and people management skills, and a strong understanding of the VCSE landscape.

REF-221497

Through the appointment of a Strategic Programme Director (SPD), we have been given an opportunity to bring a step change in our mission and ministry across the Diocese of Coventry.  With a history of innovative missional practice and a dedicated team of lay and ordained leaders across our diverse geographical area (Warwickshire, Coventry and part of Solihull), we are looking to appoint a strategic thinker who is solutions focused with experience in bringing impactful change. The SPD will join us at an exciting time in the strategic development of the Diocese of Coventry as our new diocesan bishop takes up her responsibilities with a vision to see all churches flourish. A highly consultative approach will be needed as we look ahead to the beginning of this new season.

The Strategic Programme Director will be responsible for contributing to and supporting the Bishop’s Senior Staff Team and key lay and ordained leaders in the delivery of the diocesan strategy. The role will ensure that the programmes, projects and workstreams within the plan are delivered on time, within scope and budget. The Programme Director will provide oversight of the strategic plan from inception of ideas through implementation to delivery of projects.  Working collaboratively across the Diocese, the role will also ensure that key outcomes are well-defined, appropriately prioritised, delivered to plan and within budget. The role will include shaping and scoping the request for partnership/external funding.

Programme Development & Planning

• In the first year: To prioritise the clear articulation of a diocesan wide vision and direction of travel through working closely with the Bishop and the Bishop’s Senior Staff Team building on the work achieved in recent years.
• Work with key stakeholders to develop strategic initiatives aligned with the diocesan vision and strategy
• Ensure strategic proposals have clarity and viability
• Ensure effective communication with clarity, consistency and transparency
• Work with senior leaders to prioritise outline proposals
• Work with senior leaders to develop change proposals including detailed outcomes and the process by which those outcomes will be achieved
• Regularly assess the viability of development proposals
• Work with partnership funding bodies, including the C of E Vision and Strategy Team, to submit funding proposals and assure the quality of applications for any partnership funding
• Represent the Diocese in discussions with partnership funders
• Work with senior leaders to make the best use of central resources to support change

Programme Management

• Facilitate the launch of partnership-funded strategic projects, ensuring they are appropriately planned, resourced, measured and managed.
• Establish appropriate programme governance, including risk management, change management, regular reporting, and budget management
• Work with the communications team to ensure consistent and effective messaging
• Establish review and support processes to ensure projects are delivered successfully
• Ensure intervention processes are developed to pause, or if necessary, terminate projects that have demonstrated they will not deliver
• Capture and publish lessons learned, and support research studies
• Build consistent protocols for all significant strategic development initiatives
• Track progress against a detailed project plan, deliverables, outcomes and measures
• Manage changes in project scope, schedule and costs, escalating to BSIG as required
• Provide support for operational aspects of projects in liaison with diocesan colleagues
• Ensure project leads/managers regularly complete a quality project highlight report
• Address project issues and risks, escalating to BSST accordingly
• Report project status to BSST on a regular basis
• Oversee production of all necessary annual reports for the Strategic Investment Board

Accountable to: CEO

Location: Based/Flexible Hybrid working at: 45, The Parade, Roath, Cardiff, CF24 3AB

Hours of work: 35 hours a week

Salary: £40,000 to £42,000 dependent on experience

P03 Scale 32-35 – £41,511 – £44,711

Contract type: Permanent following a successfully identified probationary period.

Mission and Values

Voices From Care Cymru exists to improve the lives of care experienced children and young people in Wales, which we achieve by being a national independent voice that provides a national care experienced community.

Our values:

Being Young-Person Led

VFCC core principles are guided by our community of care experienced children & young people. Our Board of Trustees is split between young people/service users and key professionals, The advisory group of Care experienced children and young and staff regularly consult with children and young people on issues that are important to them.

Equality For Everyone in Care

VFCC believe that care experienced children & young people should have the same chances and opportunities as their non-care experienced peers. They should not have to face stigma, discrimination, and barriers in life because of their care experience.

Creating A Care Family

VFCC provides the opportunity for care experienced children & young people to meet, grow, learn and develop long lasting friendships.

Being Aspirational

VFCC wants care experienced children & young people to be everything that they can be. We want to inspire them and nurture their potential.

Celebrating Individuality

VFCC is a unique independent organisation, we recognise and celebrate the individuality and diversity of the children & young people that we work with. We see that the different backgrounds, experiences, and views of care experienced children & young people help us to develop as an organisation and better represent the wider care population.

Purpose of post

By instruction and in partnership with the CEO (Chief Executive Officer) the Programme Director will manage and coordinate the operational areas of VFCC based on company policies, goals, and objectives to ensure an efficient working environment and that deadlines are met. The Programme Director prioritise the target/ objectives. We are looking for an experienced Programme Director to supervise a wide range of programs. You will be responsible for the delivery and overall success of each program. You will supervise teams and inform management on progress and performance.

A successful Programme Director must have a broad knowledge of program management principles. They must have a strategic mindset as well as be able to lead and develop their subordinates.

The goal is to ensure every program will be delivered successfully and add the highest possible value to the organization

Key tasks

• The Programme Director will assist senior management in establishing the development of the organisations long-term business Plan.
• The Programme Director will ensure that the strategic aims and planning of departments budgets/objectives are in conjunction and agreed by the CEO.
• The Programme Director will be responsible for monitoring workflow, ensuring optimal productivity, performance, milestones and deadlines are met across the organization.
• The Programme Director will be responsible for managing the performance and objectives for key staff.

The Programme Director will also be responsible for:

• CRM system – lamplight.
• Fundraising – to support the fundraising strategy and monitor and produce reports.
• Assist SMT in setting goals that promote company growth which will support the strategic objectives of the organisation.
• Oversee daily activity of the team.
• Prepare budgets, schedules, and other organisational reports as needed .
• Devise evaluation strategies to monitor performance and determine and manage the need for improvements team workloads to meet goals and deadlines.
• Develop plans to increase efficiency and reduce costs
• Improve existing systems and policies
• Promote and enforce safety in the workplace
• Work closely with other departments to promote efficient optimisation.
• Execute plans designed to meet company goals by updating/monitoring policies employees and coaching.
• Updating management with detailed and accurate reports/presentations regarding budgets, and bids
• Apply change, risk and resource management principles when needed, read reports prepared by managers to monitor progress.
• Ensure program operations and activities comply to legal guidelines and internal policies.
• Knowledge of child protection/safeguarding policy/procedures and be able to act and make reports as necessary

The VFCC experience:

• To ensure that care experienced children and young people have a positive experience of VFCC.
• To ensure VFCC is a safe and supportive environment for children and young people.
• To ensure young people are signposted to further opportunities to develop their skills and experience.
• To coordinate children and young people’s meaningful involvement/participation with the governance and operations frameworks of the organisation.

Other duties:

• To work within the organisation’s policies and practice guidelines.
• To participate in supervision sessions, staff meetings, managerial meetings, and the team activities.
• To carry out any other reasonable duties as may be required by the Chief Executive Officer.
• Deputise with the Influencing Director in the absence of Chief Executive Officer.
• The Programme Director will occasionally be required to work evenings and weekends with the occasional requirement to stay away from home overnight.

Battersea's Global Programmes Department is looking for a Grants and Programmes Manager to manage the delivery of a portfolio of work within the Grants and Programmes function. This is an exciting time for Battersea as we expand our work to impact more dogs and cats. Over the coming five years it is planned that the size and complexity of grant making will grow, including the establishment of several multi-year programmes in the UK and abroad.

This is a senior grant making role within the Grants and Programmes team in the Global Programmes Directorate, requiring excellent experience of people management, strategic leadership and good grant making practice.

The successful postholder should be comfortable making proposals, suggesting alternative approaches and solutions, supporting the contributions of others, and advancing the collective interests of a team. They should also be comfortable working with considerable scope, and complexity and nurturing relationships with colleagues and external partners as an integral element of the role. The successful postholder should be able to develop and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders, to pose and field questions of considerable complexity and sensitivity and use discretion in carrying out a constructive and effective dialogue; they will be comfortable with proposing ideas, engaging in productive debate, supporting the contributions of others, and in other ways advancing Battersea’s strategic interests.

What we can offer you:

In return for your commitment to our cause and to recognise the value of our employees, Battersea offers a range of benefits to support the wellbeing of our employees. These include:

- 28 days of annual leave (plus 8 days paid public holidays) per year
- Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work schemes
- Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources.
- Generous pension contributions – up to 10% employer contribution
- Free healthcare cash plan, where you can claim for a range of treatment including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture every year.
- Annual interest-free season ticket loans

We are also committed to providing learning and development to our employees. During your time with us, we provide support for your professional and career development, including access to digital and in-person training programmes, leadership and management training, mentoring and much more.

Our hybrid working model:

We operate a 50% onsite hybrid working model, with our office-based staff splitting their time between site based and home working. This enables our office-based staff to balance the benefits of home working with onsite collaboration and maintaining a connection to our cause.

Diversity and inclusion:

We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for all staff, volunteers and trustees and those hoping to join us. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process and actively seek to ensure our process is fair and equitable for all.

We understand the value of diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences to help us deliver even more for our dogs and cats, and we welcome applicants from all sections of the community.

As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best. 

More about us:

At Battersea, we aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help. We give each one lots of love, expert care and get to know their characters and quirks so we can find them a new home that’s just right for them. Join us and help us be here for every dog and cat, wherever they are, for as long as they need us.

Closing date: 17th May 2025
Interview date(s): First stage interviews: 22nd May 2025; Second stage interviews: 28th May 2025

To apply for the role, please click the button below. All applications must be submitted before the closing date advertised. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received.

The eoa exists to grow and strengthen employee ownership as a force for powering fairer livelihoods, stronger businesses, and a more resilient economy. With 800+ member businesses and a community of thousands of employee owners, we are the national voice for employee ownership in the UK.

Our refreshed strategy is focused on accelerating impact through people powered growth. We’re here to make employee ownership a mainstream business model choice—by expanding the sector, setting the standard for excellence, and building a connected, values-led ecosystem. We do this through sharp insight, high-impact advocacy, and a thriving member experience.

For founders and business owners exploring employee ownership, or for leaders and managers building Great EO businesses, the eoa offers tools, knowledge, experience and connection. We facilitate powerful peer learning, codify what works, and champion the stories that inspire others to choose EO.

Together with our members, we’re creating the conditions for employee ownership to thrive—seizing the political, cultural, and digital opportunities ahead. and this is where you come in.

As Director of Partnerships and Growth, you’ll be the driving force behind the eoa’s external influence and reach. you’ll lead our advocacy and external affairs strategy, build meaningful partnerships, and deliver powerful events programmes that accelerate adoption of Great EO. You’ll also shape the narrative—ensuring our insights, policy recommendations and thought leadership land with impact.

This is a high-profile, senior leadership role at a pivotal time for the EO community. It calls for someone with a track record in advocacy or external affairs, strong commercial acumen, and the ability to lead high-performing teams. It also needs a big-picture thinker - someone who can champion EO, influence change, and help us build a more inclusive, resilient economy.

If you’re excited about the opportunity to grow an economy that puts people at the heart of business, we’d love to hear from you.

Role Details

At the heart of this Director of Parnterships & Growth role is the opportunity to shape the external environment for employee ownership, champion the voice of our members, and lead high-impact strategies that grow both our reach and the sector itself.

You’ll lead on policy, advocacy, external affairs and events—crafting compelling narratives, building powerful partnerships, and delivering programmes that drive commercial sustainability and sector-wide change.

From shaping relationships with key stakeholders and securing strategic sponsorships, to overseeing the delivery of thought leadership, content, and events, you’ll ensure that the eoa is not just part of the national conversation—but leading it.

Your ability to influence, convene, and inspire will be critical to removing barriers to employee ownership and unlocking the potential of our £1.7m organisation to deliver even greater impact.

Join us on this exciting journey where your leadership will shape policy, grow influence, and contribute to our mission of unlocking the potential of people, businesses, and the economy through employee ownership.

This role is remote, however regular travel to our HQ in Brough and across the UK is expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead external affairs, collaborating with stakeholders to shape policy, advocacy and best practice that removes barriers and expands EO.
• Establish relationships and secure commercial partnerships and sponsorships, generating revenue to support advocacy, events, and sector growth initiatives.
• Engage key stakeholders to co-produce content that positively influence EO practice and policy and amplify the eoa’s voice in public affairs.
• Oversee delivery of an effective content strategy that delivers our commercial objectives and positions the eoa as the leading EO authority.
• Oversee events programmes, ensuring they drive knowledge-sharing, sector development, and commercial sustainability.
• Represent the eoa at industry forums, policy roundtables, and public affairs events, championing the employee ownership model.
• Collaborate with the Director of Membership & Operations to align advocacy efforts with member needs and engagement.
• Lead and develop high-performing teams, fostering innovation and delivering measurable impact across advocacy, policy, event activities.

Success in this role

Success in this role means having a positive impact on the growth rate, influence and adoption of great EO across the employee ownership sector. Strengthening and expanding stakeholder relationships, driving advocacy impact and securing commercial sustainability through a diverse mix of sponsorships, partnerships will also be indicators of success.

Key outcomes for the role

• Growth of the employee ownership sector. Measured by increased number of EO businesses, heightened sector awareness
• Strengthened corporate engagement. Measured by growth in strategic partnerships, corporate and government engagement
• Strong Commercial Sustainability. Measured by increased sponsorship revenue, secured long-term commercial partnerships
• Increased policy influence. Measured by policy recommendations adopted, increased government engagement
• Enhanced sector insight and intelligence. Measured by utilisation of high-quality data and insights for regular sector related content outputs.
• Development and adoption of best practice. Measured by creation, adoption and promotion of best practice across the EO network.
• Successful events programmes. Measured by iIncreased participation, sponsorship growth, positive feedback.

About you

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

Role Summary

• Contract: Permanent
• Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week
• Location: Remote, with regular travel to eoa offices and national events
• Salary & Benefits: £65,000 p/a + 7% Pensions. 30 Days leave + Bank Holidays.
• Reports to: CEO
• Management: TBC

Volunteering for Health is a NHS funded programme to build the capacity and capability of organisations and local health and care systems in England, through the development of volunteering infrastructure. It aims to realise the potential of volunteering in improving the experience and outcomes of people using our health and care systems.

Following a successful bid by Liverpool Charity and Voluntary Services (LCVS) as part of a partnership with NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group (UHL Group), NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, and Liverpool City Council we are recruiting for a Volunteering for Health Development Officer to support the partnership in its intention to:

• Establish a robust volunteering infrastructure to address identified health needs and priorities
• Strengthen the capacity of VCFSE (Voluntary Community Faith Social Enterprise) organisations to engage with health volunteering
• Promote collaboration between VCFSE, and statutory organisations to improve health outcomes
• Ensuring sustainability of health volunteering practices beyond the life of the project
• Responding to identified gaps in health volunteering and integrating efforts with local health strategies

The Volunteering for Health Development Officer will support the development and delivery of coherent and sustainable volunteering infrastructure in Liverpool, particularly to grow the level of health and wellbeing linked volunteering opportunities across Liverpool.

This is an exciting and influential role in The Salvation Army, requiring a broad experience and skill set, along with relationally focused and adaptable approach. It will involve working with a skilled team to engage and support professionals from a variety of fields to influence strategy and practice. You will not only collaborate to ensure the collection and analysis of good quality information but also work to facilitate its accessibility and implementation throughout the movement. You will join the team at a time of transition, helping plan and implement ways of working in R&D that emphasis the movement’s response as a church to the needs of local communities and wider society.

The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting the Director of Research & Development in directing and providing strategic leadership on all research matters to the UKI Territory. The role is a key part of R&D senior management team. R&D seeks to inform, inspire and enable transformational front-line mission. The post-holder will be responsible for significant internal agendas including Ethics, Impact Measurement and develop strategic research university partnerships to promote evidence-based mission. They will be required to manage a significant portfolio of projects and contacts.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:

• An extensive proven track record of utilising strong interpersonal and relational skills to lead a successful research team that supports the development, implementation and evaluation of high impact research initiatives, developing and training staff, and managing performance where required
• Proven track record of empowering and coaching team members to innovate, whilst leading by example, demonstrating clarity of thought and direction, drive and humility
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence at a senior level, and ability to develop strong, successful, collaborative and influential working relationships at all levels of seniority within an organisation
• A research-based PhD (or equivalent qualification), and excellent proven practical research, analytical and project management skills, including a thorough understanding of how to interpret stakeholders’ business needs and translate them into application and operational requirements, demonstrating creativity, agility and a solution-orientated approach.
• Practitioner understanding of participatory and theological research methods, ability to theologically reflect and discern, with a thorough understanding of research ethics.

This role has an occupational requirement that the successful candidate must be a committed and practising Christian, actively involved with your own Church and will be in sympathy with the doctrines of, and supportive of, the purposes and the aims and objectives of The Salvation Army.

In order to complete your application please download and read the job profile and any other attachments.

In the job profile you will find the criteria required for the role please make sure that you address this in your supporting statement as this forms the basis of our shortlisting.

Working hours: Minimum of 35 hours per week - working a minimum of 40% across each month at our London Headquarters 

Closing date: Monday 26 May 2025

Interview Date: To be confirmed

Appointment subject to satisfactory references including a reference from your Church Minister and proof of right to work in the UK, 

For details of how to prove your right to work in the UK please visit the government website and please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship. 

Please note that any Salvation Army employees who are under notice of redundancy and apply for this position will be given priority consideration.

We reserve the right to close this advert earlier if we feel that we have received sufficient applications.

Promoting equality in the workplace and as a disability confident leader scheme employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet all the minimum essential criteria for the vacancy.

Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata for part-time) a contributory pension scheme; an employee assistance programme

Seeking a purposeful career change? Start on your transformative journey with the On Purpose Associate Programme, offering a unique opportunity for mid-career professionals to transition into impactful work. This paid, year-long leadership programme is designed for those ready to pivot their professional journey towards creating a regenerative, equitable and just future.

Key info:

• Based in London, UK

• Full-time (4.5 days at placement & one half day training weekly)

• £27,010 per annum salary 

• Programme dates: October 2025 - September 2026 (49 weeks)

About On Purpose:

On Purpose is tackling the greatest challenge of our time: transforming our economy from profit to purpose. Our leadership programmes develop people who will play their part in this transformation.

Together, we learn to see a different future and take action towards realising it in the organisations we work in. Our programmes seed a vibrant community who care, inspire, challenge and support one another as we make this transformation a reality.

Programme summary:

• Two 6 month placements:

Through work placements with leading purpose-driven organisations, you'll gain hands-on experience tackling pressing social and environmental issues. Some of our current partners include Better Society Capital, Save the Children, BAFTA and Sustainable Ventures.

• Expert-led learning:

Our intensive Learning & Development programme involves weekly in-person sessions led by experts from across sectors. This blend of professional training and academic rigour equips you with the skills, knowledge and mindset to lead organisational and systemic change. 

• 1-2-1 mentoring & coaching:

Receive support through fortnightly mentoring sessions and quarterly executive coaching, fostering both your personal and professional growth.

• Join a supportive, impactful community:

You’ll be part of a tight-knit cohort of 20 Associates, participating in training sessions every Friday afternoon together. You’ll also join the wider On Purpose community, connecting with a global, influential network of impact-driven professionals offering life-long inspiration, collaboration and opportunities.

Benefits:

• Earn while you learn: On Purpose stands out by offering a paid learning and training opportunity, saving you significant costs compared to paying for other leadership programmes or MBAs, all the while offering extensive learning and development.

• Develop your ability to make an impact: Equip yourself with the skills and insights needed to drive meaningful change. You’ll join nearly 1000 purpose-driven alumni who are leading transformative change worldwide in all parts of the system, with 92% currently working in the impact sector.

• Unlock purpose-driven career opportunities: Our Associates have moved into a whole range of sustainability jobs and social impact roles, ranging from CEOs of social enterprises to leadership positions within traditional companies driving change from within. We have a former music label business owner now the CEO of Hubbub, a former Consultant now Director of Impact at B Lab UK and a former civil servant now Climate Lead at Ellen MacArthur Foundation. 

• Standard UK holiday allowance

• A 3-day residential (all expenses paid)

Who we’re looking for:

This programme is ideal for:

• Individuals seeking a career change into the environment and social impact sector.

• Individuals already in the impact sector who want to develop new skills, have the opportunity to work in more commercial organisations, or to join an engaged network of people who share your values and are working toward the same goal. 

Specific sector or industry experience is not important. We’re looking for talented people from diverse industries who have a determination to bring their skills and experience to purpose-driven projects and to driving systemic change. We seek ambitious individuals with:

• A minimum of three years full-time professional experience

• The right to work in the UK for the full duration of the programme

• Fluency in English 

• Office environment experience 

• Skills in project management, stakeholder engagement, adaptability, interpersonal communication, problem-solving, quantitative analysis and strategic thinking.

• Excitement and commitment towards building a career that helps transform our economy from profit to purpose.

Diversity and Inclusion:

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences and those who are often under-represented in the impact sector, including but not limited to individuals with disabilities and those from diverse ethnic, gender identities, sexualities, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds.

How to apply:

• Read our Associate Programme brochure for more information.

• Register your interest via our website to receive a link to your online application form.

• Closing date for applications: Monday 19 May, 9:00 am (BST).

• Interviews will be held in mid-late June.