Programme director jobs in edinburgh, scotland

Operation Christmas Child UK (OCC) has implemented a strategic volunteer ministry, investing in teams of volunteers who will multiply themselves and hugely extend the reach of OCC’s mission.

OCC is the world’s largest shoebox appeal where Samaritan’s Purse, together with local churches here and overseas, distributes from the UK 1/4 million gift-filled shoeboxes annually to children in need overseas and in so doing demonstrates God’s love in a tangible way while sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.

A resourceful and energetic Regional Manager is needed to recruit, select, equip, and lead teams of volunteers throughout the 32 London boroughs.

You will be passionate about developing others towards highly effective ministry, teamwork and increased personal competency.

You will also directly engage churches to participate in OCC in areas not yet covered by Connect volunteers. A special opportunity will be engaging London churches that have partnered with our sister ministry, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association for the June 2025 God Loves You Tour London.

You will be confident to take initiative with people and projects and also have good administrative and organisational skills. You will also enjoy envisioning the numerous volunteers who participate in the OCC shoebox appeal each year.

You will enthusiastically support the Christian purposes of OCC and Samaritan’s Purse and be committed to the value of well-equipped volunteers and to developing them further. Candidates will have proven people and project management and administrative experience in the workplace and be educated to A levels or ideally Degree level.

This role is based in region, and so prospective candidates should currently live in the region and provide their own transport for which defined expenses will be paid.

In accordance with the Equality Act of 2010 and due to both the nature and context of the role there is an ‘occupational requirement’ for the post holder to be a committed Christian. The job holder should be committed to the purpose of Samaritan’s Purse and be able to demonstrate enthusiasm for the Christian purposes of the organisation and be able to live out, hold to, support and contribute to its Christian ethos.

We're recruiting for an Engagement Lead, to work in our Innovation & Practice team. 

As Engagement Lead you will play a central role in our team – developing, leading and managing significant projects for us, including citizens’ assemblies, citizens’ juries, deliberative workshops, and participatory processes. You will need to have a good understanding of deliberative processes, have excellent project leadership and project management skills, as well the ability to build and maintain good relationships with a wide variety of people, including members of the public, project partners, colleagues and decision-makers.

The role sits in the Innovation and Practice team that designs and delivers high quality practical engagement work leading to better decisions, more engaged citizens and helps address critical challenges of our society. We are constantly balancing high quality standards with innovation to ensure that we stay at the cutting edge and that our engagement processes break down entrenched inequalities of power.

You will be a proven project leader looking to make your next move and develop your leadership skills and profile in this interesting and important area of public participation work. We are particularly interested in candidates who have experience in the design and delivery of large scale deliberative engagement projects. 

Senior Research Advisor

We’re looking for a credible, strategic, and impact-driven individual to join the organisation at a pivotal moment for stroke research and improvement, in this remote working role.

Position: CE374 Senior Research Advisor

Location: Home-based, UK, Nationwide. However, occasional travel will be required as part of this role (may include team meetings or other work-related meetings)

Salary: Circa £60,000 per annum, negotiable depending on experience (inner London weighting £3,950 per annum or outer London weighting £2,275 per annum may be applied in accordance with where you live)

Hours: 35 hours per week

Contract: This is a 12 month fixed-term contract.

Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (this will increase with service up to 30 days, full time equivalent) cashback and discount scheme, employee assistance programme, learning and development, pension scheme, Life Assurance, Eye Care vouchers, Long Service Award, Tax-free childcare, Health Cash Plan, Working Pattern Agreement, flexible working opportunities available.

Closing Date: 7 July 2025. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.

Interview Date: 17 July 2025

Interviews will be held via video conferencing. Please let us know if this will present any challenges when you email your application.

The Role

Reporting to the Associate Director of Systems Engagement, the Senior Research Advisor will take the lead in translating the Association’s refreshed research strategy into action, shaping its implementation plan and designing the governance and delivery mechanisms needed to ensure its success. This includes evolving funding schemes, aligning internal systems and team capabilities, and scoping the future role in real-time quality improvement and implementation science.

This is a rare opportunity to influence a future-facing research and improvement agenda in a leading UK health charity. The Senior Research Advisor will act as a senior advisor and thought partner to the leadership team, bringing expertise in applied research, translational science, and funding strategy. You will play a central role in shaping credibility and influence as a system leader, ensuring the Association drives forward a culture of testing, learning, and scaling what works.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading the development of a robust implementation plan for the Association’s refreshed research strategy, including the structures, processes, and partnerships needed for successful delivery.
• Redesigning funding schemes to support translational research, implementation, and real-world outcomes.
• Strengthening research governance and embedding QI and research into organisational strategy.
• Providing senior-level insight and support for the research and health systems insight and engagement teams.
• Positioning the Association as a visible and credible actor in stroke research and improvement.

About You

You will have:

• A PhD and significant senior-level experience in health research leadership.
• Proven ability to develop research strategies and funding mechanisms that accelerate translation and implementation.
• Strong system leadership credentials, with a track record of influencing across sectors.
• Deep knowledge of stroke, cardiovascular disease or neuroscience.
• A confident and flexible approach to agile working, with the ability to thrive in fast-paced, evolving environments.

This is a home-based role with occasional travel required.

To fulfil the role, you must be a resident of the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

Please submit your CV, (including details of your current address), and a supporting statement of no more than two pages, demonstrating how you meet the person specification and what you bring to the role in terms of your skills and experience.

If you are applying under the Disability Confident scheme, please indicate this in your supporting statement.

Finding strength through support

The organisation is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. Providing tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

They are here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of supporters and donors that they can provide vital support. 

The Association is driven by an ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means they’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by an approach to solving inequity in stroke, the team are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across the charity.

The charity are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Association and are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how the organisation work.

A Disability Confident employer, the organisation is making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. The charity has a variety of staff network groups and are committed to continuously improving diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

You may also have experience in areas such as Research, Researcher, Research Advisor, Senior Researcher, Senior Research Advisor,  Lead Researcher, Lead Research Advisor, Health Research, Health Researcher, Health Research Advisor, Senior Health Researcher, Senior Health Research Advisor. #INDNFP

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a key member of the senior 
leadership team, responsible for overseeing the operational and 
financial management of the charity. 

As a Chartered Accountant, the COO will bring strong financial 
expertise and strategic insight to ensure the charity’s resources 
are efficiently and effectively used to deliver its mission. 

This includes managing the day-to-day operations, ensuring 
financial health and compliance, driving operational efficiency, 
and working closely with the CEO and Board to implement the 
charity’s strategic vision.

Change Grow Live is a national charity dedicated to helping people overcome challenges and build better lives. We’re seeking a Regional Volunteering Manager – London and the South to help grow and strengthen volunteering and student placements across our diverse services.

This role is perfect if you’re motivated to make a positive difference by supporting people and enabling services to embed volunteering at the heart of their work. You’ll provide expert advice, foster collaboration and learning, and shape how volunteering is developed and delivered across a wide range of communities and services. You’ll take a coaching approach in all that you do.

Your focus will be on ensuring best practice in volunteering. You’ll also be playing a significant role in increasing the impact of volunteering across the organisation. While no prior health or social care experience is required, you will demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting others and driving positive change.

As a connector, adviser, and leader, you will work collaboratively with services across your region, and with our central support functions. You will represent volunteering in important decision-making forums, and help develop policies and practices that put people first. With a focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion, you’ll help create environments where volunteers and those we support truly thrive.

We also have 2 other Volunteering Manager positions currently open.  1 role is covering Scotland and the North and 1 role is a National Specialist Services role covering all CGL’s specialist services. Please check our website for more details.

Full Time Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Permanent | Hybrid working with regular service visits within your regional area
Location: Flexible, with national travel as required
Full Time Salary: 40-44 CGL scale points

*please note: Full-time hours at Change Grow Live are 37.5 hours per week. For part-time roles, the salary and payments will be pro rata based on contracted hours.

Responsibilities

About You:

You understand the deep value of volunteering and are passionate about turning that passion into practical, strategic support across a wide-ranging organisation. You believe in the power of people coming together to make a real difference and are eager to help create volunteering opportunities that are inclusive, safe, and meaningful.

With strong communication skills and a talent for building positive relationships, you’re motivated by purpose and ready to learn and grow in this important work. Adaptable and solution-focused, you thrive in change and are confident facilitating learning, coaching others, and influencing how volunteering shapes services and communities.

You’ll flourish in this role if you:

• Are passionate about empowering others and championing inclusion
• Enjoy building connections and supporting learning
• Embrace change with optimism and flexibility
• Want to help influence policy and practice at a national level

What You Bring:

• Experience supporting and managing volunteers or placements, whether in a specialist or partnership role, demonstrating your ability to make a real difference.
• A strong understanding of best practices in volunteering, with knowledge of the frameworks that ensure safe, meaningful, and impactful involvement.
• Confidence in creating positive learning environments and coaching colleagues to grow and succeed.
• Awareness of safeguarding, safer recruitment, and working within a values-driven HR context that puts people first.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to build trust and collaborate effectively at every level.
• A proactive and optimistic mindset, combined with a genuine commitment to a people-centered approach in all you do.

What We’re Excited to See:

• A genuine enthusiasm for volunteer management and engaging with communities.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills that foster collaboration and connection.
• A willingness to learn, grow, and develop specialist knowledge.
• The ability to support and guide teams as they embrace new ways of working.
• Step into a role where your efforts help thousands of people feel valued, supported, and empowered every day.

Why Join Change Grow Live?

• A role where you can make a genuine, lasting impact — supporting volunteers who change lives every day.

• A supportive, inclusive and forward-thinking team.

• 25 days annual leave (rising with service) + bank holidays.

• Flexibility and hybrid working arrangements.

• Ongoing personal and professional development.

• Wellness resources, employee assistance and lifestyle discounts.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Bring your unique skills and passion to a role that empowers volunteering across the country. We welcome all backgrounds and experiences - your voice matters here.

Apply today and be part of a future where everyone’s contribution to volunteering is celebrated, valued, and makes a lasting impact.

** Please note that we will be conducting for face to face interviews in London on the 31st July 2025.

Salary Range (pro rata if part time)

CGL points 40 to 44 (£44,471.72 - £48,906.23)

ILW / OLW /Fringe

N/A - Outside London Weighting Area

Interview Date

31/7/2025

Closing Date

22/7/2025

We are seeking a compassionate, visionary, and strategic Chief Executive Officer to lead Mermaids through the next stage of its evolution, dedicated to improving the lives of gender-diverse children and young people, and those who are important to them. As CEO, you will be responsible for driving the charity’s mission, shaping its strategic direction, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, affirming support services. You will act as a visible and credible advocate for trans and 
gender-diverse youth, build strong relationships with stakeholders, and influence public policy and sector practice. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, you will oversee a small committed team, ensure robust financial management with the Chief Operating Officer, and lead fundraising efforts to secure a sustainable future. This is a unique opportunity for a values-driven leader who brings both strategic acumen and a deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and lived 
experience. 
Service Delivery:
• Provide strategic and operational leadership across all service delivery areas, including support line services, group work,  advocacy, external communications, and policy.
• Ensure services are high quality, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of trans and gender-diverse children, young people and the special people in their lives.
• Lead the continuous improvement and development of service delivery models, ensuring impact, effectiveness, and alignment with the charity’s mission.
• Champion a culture of safeguarding, accountability, and young person-centred practice throughout all service delivery. 
• Act as the organisation’s Safeguarding Lead, with oversight of on-call, safeguarding training, and ensuring appropriate escalation mechanisms are in place.
• Oversee the design and implementation of advocacy and policy activities, ensuring the charity’s voice is informed by lived 
experience and is impactful at local and national levels.
• Act as a visible and hands-on leader for frontline teams, providing support, supervision, and inspiration to staff and 
volunteers.
• Monitor performance, outcomes, and feedback to ensure services are meeting objectives and delivering positive change 
for beneficiaries.

Governance:
• In partnership with the board of trustees, set and articulate our vision, mission and strategy, and keep this under continual 
review.
• Lead the development and implementation of Mermaid’s strategic plan, ensuring sustainability and growth.
• Liaise with the board of trustees to ensure the charity’s governance, structure, policies and procedures are appropriate 
and effective, taking remedial measures and implementing change as necessary. This includes supporting board 
development.
• Work closely with the Chair and Board of Trustees to support strong governance and informed decision-making.
• Provide accurate and timely reporting on organisational performance, risks, and impact.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory guidance and legislation, including the Charity Commission and the Fundraising 

Finance & Fundraising:
• Working with the Chief Operating Officer and the Board of Trustees, ensure Mermaids has robust, deliverable fundraising 
and finance strategies in place, and subsequent action plans are embedded throughout the organisation to support their 
delivery.
• In partnership with the Chief Operating Officer, ensure Mermaids has robust finance, HR, IT, data privacy and governance processes and procedures are embedded.

People and Culture:
• Line manage senior staff including the COO and service delivery managers.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, inclusive internal culture that values lived experience and wellbeing.
• Continue work to embed a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion across the organisation, as well as a focus on accessibility.
• Work to define and drive trans-centred leadership across the organisation, including ensuring that the organisation is a trans-positive, supportive employer.

External Engagement and Advocacy:
• Represent Mermaids publicly, including acting as the key spokesperson and strategic policy stakeholder, ensuring 
organisational awareness of the external landscape and the changing needs of trans children, young people and their 
families, and advocating for these needs to be met.
• Lead communications strategy, and lead press engagement by responding to media inquiries, interviews, press conferences and media events.
• Lead on stakeholder engagement, including with funders, supporters, community partners, and policy influencers.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of trans and gender-diverse children, young people and the significant others in their lives at a national level.