Programme director jobs

Starlight has a long and successful track record of delivering high-profile, high-value special events, including the prestigious Blenheim Ball, Newbury Race Day, and until recently, the Highclere Clay Pigeon Shoot. These events are supported by influential committees and play a critical role in raising income, stewarding donors and connecting supporters with our purpose.

With a gap in our Philanthropy team and maternity leave expected to begin in March, this 18-month fixed-term role exists to lead and deliver Starlight’s flagship events at a senior level, with immediate responsibility for the Blenheim Ball (April) –  the event Tatler refers to as “ society’s smartest ball “chaired by Lady Alexandra Spencer Churchill; and Newbury Race Day (May) – one of Starlight’s longest-standing and most successful supporter events, hosted by Nicky Henderson and his Committee.

This is a senior, delivery-focused role designed for an experienced events professional who can hit the ground running and immediately take ownership of two flagship events. Working closely with the Committees, you will bring leadership, strategic judgement and outstanding project management to ensure these events continue to excel in reputation, income and supporter experience.

We are specifically looking for talented individuals who have a short notice period and are available to start in January. Candidates need only apply if available through to April 2026 with no planned significant periods of leave.

Dancers’ Career Development (DCD), the national charity that enables and empowers dancers to thrive professionally and personally leading up to and beyond their performance careers, seek a Fundraiser.

DCD’s Fundraiser will work closely with the Executive Director and be instrumental in increasing fundraised and revenue income. 

Our ideal candidate will be a creative thinker with an open mindset to propose and explore new avenues of fundraising and income streams.

This role is ideally suited to a self-starter with a passion for the performing arts, who is motivated to make a tangible difference to the quality of dancers’ lives.

If you are excited by this opportunity and resonate with DCD’s values, please get in touch; we would love to hear from you.

Contract: Full-time permanent role

Salary: £35,000 per annum, pro-rata

Start date: As early as possible

Location: This is a remote working role, with monthly in-person team meetings which take place in London or Birmingham. Due to additional in-person events and meetings, as appropriate to the role and usually in London, the Fundraiser should be either based in London or within commutable distance.

Benefits: 23 days holiday pro-rata plus Bank Holidays (increasing to 28 days with length of service), 5% Employers contribution to pension scheme, Health & Wellbeing package, Professional Development opportunities.

Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 9am, Thursday 22 January 2026

Info: Download job application pack from our website for full job spec and how to apply.

For 140 years, the Forces Employment Charity has proudly supported Service leavers, veterans, and their families in building successful civilian careers.

We provide veterans with life-long, life-changing support, jobs, and training opportunities, regardless of circumstances, rank, length of service, or reason for leaving.

​

Brief role description:

​The Veteran Support Employment Consultant will provide holistic, high-quality employment advice and guidance to a diverse caseload of veterans. The role focuses on supporting personal development, enhancing employability skills, and enabling clients to achieve sustainable employment outcomes.

The Veteran Support Employment Consultant will work remotely while maintaining a strong local presence through outreach and engagement activities across the East Midlands. Effective case management, following Forces Employment Charity (FEC) policies, procedures, and work instructions, is central to this role.

​

Interested? Want to know more about the Charity? Check out our Website

​Eager to know more the role? Have a look at the Job Description attached

​What’s in it for you? Check out our Benefits.

​Have we convinced you to apply? If so, submit your CV and Covering Letter by closing date Tuesday 23 December 2025 

​Got questions about the role? Get in touch with the People Team

​

Please note: Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert; therefore, we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.

If you are an internal applicant, please ensure you have made The People Team aware before applying. 

We are committed to equal opportunities and improving the working lives of our staff by fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone, including those with disabilities, can thrive, develop, and achieve their full potential. We actively encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and ensure reasonable adjustments are made to support candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. 
We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process.

This is your opportunity to make a real difference in an extra special year for Nottingham Hospitals Charity!

Nottingham Hospitals Charity exists to support patients, families and staff at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, which includes the City Hospital, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham Children’s Hospital, Hayward House palliative care centre and Ropewalk House hearing centre.

As one of the biggest NHS charities in the UK, Nottingham Hospitals Charity has raised over £64million in 19 years, to fund state-of-the-art specialist equipment, medical research projects, enhancements to the hospital environment, and staff support programmes.

For 20 years, Nottingham Hospitals Charity has supported Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) to enhance patient care, support staff wellbeing, and fund pioneering research across our hospitals. 2026 marks our 20th anniversary, and we’re planning a year-long programme of celebration to raise our profile, strengthen our partnership with NUH, thank our supporters, and inspire new donors for the years ahead. 

We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us.

About the Role 

This is a unique opportunity for a creative and organised professional to lead the planning and delivery of our 20th Anniversary Year programme. The postholder will coordinate a series of flagship events and campaigns including a launch exhibition, community festival, staff celebration week, and anniversary gala. They will work closely with colleagues across the Charity, NUH Care Groups, corporate partners and community groups to bring the year to life. The role blends project management, events coordination, marketing, and relationship-building, with a strong focus on logistics, delivery, and data capture. 

Key Responsibilities 

Programme Coordination:

• Lead day-to-day delivery of the 20th Anniversary programme, ensuring activity is on time, on brand, and on budget. 

• Develop and manage project plans for each quarter’s flagship event and supporting campaign. 

• Liaise with suppliers, venues, sponsors, and creative agencies to deliver events and collateral. 

• Monitor budgets, process invoices, and prepare regular progress updates for the Director of Fundraising and Communications. 

Events and Campaign Delivery: 

• Oversee logistics and promotion for our main anniversary events: 

            - Anniversary Launch & Impact Exhibition 

            - Community Celebration

            - NUH Staff Celebration Week & BBQ 

            - Anniversary Gala Dinner & Donor Celebration

• Coordinate supporting activities such as the “20 for 20” fundraising challenge, digital thank-you wall, and storytelling features. 

Stakeholder Engagement: 

• Support the Charity Fundraising, Marketing and Comms team to engage volunteers, donors, key corporate and community groups.
• Work collaboratively with NUH Care Groups, Estates, Communications and Events teams to ensure alignment and permissions. 

• Support media and marketing activity by gathering stories, case studies, and photography. 

Data, Insight and Impact: 

• Ensure data capture and consent are built into all anniversary activities. 

• Work with the fundraising and database teams to record participation, engagement and income outcomes against targets for ROI.

• Produce post-event evaluation and insight reports

Person Specification 

 Essential Experience and Skills: 

• Demonstrable experience in coordinating events, projects, or campaigns from concept to delivery. 

• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines. 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with confidence working across teams and partner organisations. 

• Experience of supplier liaison, contract negotiation, and budget tracking. 

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and comfortable using digital tools for project management, communications, and data capture. 

• A proactive, can-do attitude, able to work flexibly and collaboratively. 

Desirable Experience and Skills: 

• Experience in charity, healthcare, or public sector communications or events. 

• Experience of fundraising or donor stewardship events. 

• Knowledge of GDPR and data protection principles in event and marketing contexts. 

• Understanding of Nottingham Hospitals Charity and/or Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust. 

Personal Attributes: 

• Creative thinker with a passion for storytelling and community engagement. 

• Calm under pressure with strong problem-solving skills. 

• Collaborative and confident working with a wide range of stakeholders. 

• Committed to the values of the NHS and charitable giving. 

What We Offer 

• Salary £35,000–£40,000 (depending on experience) 
• Flexible, hybrid working (min. 3 days onsite at City Hospital)
• 27 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays) 
• Charity pension employer contribution 
• Opportunity to make a real impact during a landmark year for Nottingham Hospitals Charity 

If you have any questions about the role, the anniversary plans or Nottingham Hospitals Charity please contact Sam Cousens at Nottingham Hospitals Charity.

We are delighted to be working in partnership with Bird Song Trust. As a recently-established family foundation, Bird Song Trust awards grants totalling between £2.5m and £4m annually, with room to grow. Motivated by a strong Christian faith, the founders are passionate about seeing thriving families equipped to break cycles of deprivation, and building greater understanding of eating disorders to improve treatment and support.

We are seeking a strategic and relational Grants Manager to help take the Trust into its next stage of implementation and growth. Acting as second-in-command to the Director, you'll manage grants across the portfolio with a particular focus on the deprivation programme, which funds organisations supporting families, tackling homelessness and preparing young people for valuable roles in society.

In this influential role, you'll support the Director in developing grant making strategy, research organisations and assess applications, and monitor existing grants making recommendations for continuation or termination. You'll produce board papers and presentations, supervise the Grants Officer overseeing the Eating Disorders programme, and promote the Trust's founding Christian ethos by representing them at events and supporting Christian grantees. Because the Trust is fully funded, you'll have the opportunity to support projects at the cutting edge or in areas other funders aren't focusing on.

The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate:

• Experience with grants, either as a grant maker or as a grantee
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Numerate and confident working accurately with large numbers
• Excellent attention to detail with professional standards of literacy and proficiency in Excel

This is a unique opportunity for a practising Christian with vibrant and active faith to combine strategic grant making with meaningful relationship building. You'll be part of a small, dedicated team working from a beautiful office in Canary Wharf.

This role is subject to a Basic DBS check, which will be carried out by the employer.

For more information, please contact Nick Thomas, Recruitment Consultant, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion*, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.

*In accordance with the Equality Act 2010, Part 1, Schedule 9, it is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a practicing Christian.

Contract & Hours: Permanent, Full time (40 hours), open to part time (min 32 hours)

Location: Hybrid, Canary Wharf (at least 50% office based)

Closing date for applications: Sunday 4th January 2026

Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by: Wednesday 7th January 2026

Interviews with Bird Song Trust: w/c 16th January 2026

Final interviews with Bird Song Trust: w/c 23rd January 2026

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Job Description
As the Operations and Visitor Experience Manager, you play a pivotal role at CSC, with full
responsibility for our Centre in Cambridge Science Park and our secondary site, currently in
Wisbech.
An essential part of your role is to drive CSC’s direct revenue streams connected to the Centre.
You will lead your team in generating public and school bookings, and in overseeing community
audiences, private hires, and other groups, ensuring every visitor enjoys a seamless and
welcoming experience. You will also take a proactive approach to increasing visitor numbers,
expanding CSC’s membership base, and researching and developing new revenue-generating
initiatives that strengthen our long-term sustainability.
Your expertise in creating and implementing exhibition spaces will be instrumental in bringing to
life our annual delivery calendar of science themes, which is strategically curated to attract and
engage our audiences while supporting the delivery of our Programmes. You will oversee an
annual budget covering the shop and site facilities.
You will work closely with the Outreach and Innovation Manager to prioritise, schedule, and
maintain products and content in line with CSC’s core Programmes and commitments, ensuring
impactful experiences for all audiences. In collaboration with the Marketing and Communications
Manager, you will plan and execute advertising campaigns targeting both the public and schools.
You will also coordinate with the Corporate Partnerships Manager to develop opportunities for
corporate partners to support on-site exhibitions and events, ensuring agreed partnerships are
effectively tracked and delivered.
Beyond operations, you will champion excellence in STEM engagement, providing both positive
and constructive feedback to the Engagement and Logistics Lead to ensure CSC’s offerings
remain best-in-class. This is an opportunity to shape the visitor experience at CSC, ensuring it
remains dynamic, inspiring, and accessible to all.
Key Responsibilities
● Create a welcoming and engaging environment for all visitors to our centres.
● Support and line-manage the Delivery and Sales Administrator and the Finance and
Operational Support Manager.
● Take overall responsibility for Health and Safety across CSC sites, ensuring full compliance
with requirements at both centres. Implement corrective actions where needed, and
oversee training and incident management to maintain a safe and well-managed
environment.
● Achieve annual direct income revenue targets across Visitors, Membership, Shop, Schools,
Parties, and STEMtots (under-fives), track progress, report findings, and take corrective
action as needed.
● Develop and implement strategies to increase visitor numbers and drive membership
growth.
● Research, plan, and execute new revenue projects to diversify CSC’s income streams.
● Oversee asset records, maintenance priorities, budgets, contractors, and expenditures
across the Cambridge and Wisbech sites, ensuring the effective sourcing and delivery of
third-party exhibits and content.
● Deliver an annual plan for exhibition-floor themes, events, and site management,
coordinating with the Outreach and Innovation Manager and the Engagement and Logistics
Lead to align activities with multi-year programmes, partner commitments, and internal
schedules such as training and exhibit maintenance.
● Establish a multi-layered feedback system to collect, analyse, and act on visitor insights,
continuously enhancing our offering.
● Oversee CSC’s volunteering and work experience programme, ensuring recruitment,
induction, and ongoing support are delivered to a high standard.
● Work with the Director of Business Development to identify and address barriers for
schools, supporting bursary applications and additional funding opportunities.
● In coordination with your team, ensure the shop is stocked with appropriate products to
maximise sales, support at-home engagement with STEM after a family visit and promote a
message of sustainability.
● Increase school bookings through strategic planning, aligning with schools’ annual planning
cycles, targeted outreach, and the effective delivery of engagement programmes.
● Work with the Marketing & Communications Manager to plan and deliver advertising for
exhibitions, events, and school engagement, ensuring effective promotion of activities at
both the Cambridge and Wisbech centres.
● Manage the budget and oversee all contractors and expenditures related to the Cambridge
site and Wisbech.
● Provide financial support, working closely with the Director of Operations and Engagement
to ensure CSC’s operational sustainability.
Essential Criteria

Experience managing a visitor attraction, including responsibility for income targets and
cost control.
● A creative and engaging mindset, with a proven ability to work with a team to create
intriguing and popular spaces.
● A thorough and operational approach to planning, risk management, and the continuous
improvement of processes.
● Demonstrated success in increasing visitor numbers and driving membership growth
through strategic planning and effective execution.
● Experience in researching, planning, and delivering new revenue-generating projects.
● A strong track record of increasing school bookings through targeted outreach and strategic
programme design.
● Comprehensive knowledge of health and safety management, including experience in
leading compliance activity and training across multiple sites.
● Strong financial acumen, with the ability to support budgeting, forecasting, and operational
financial oversight
● Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
● A strong drive to deliver timely, high-quality outcomes in everything you do.
● Proven ability to adapt quickly and effectively to changing priorities.
● A commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
● A collaborative work ethic, enabling you to work effectively with colleagues and partners
across a wide range of projects.
● Competent and confident in using standard computer applications.
● Achieve a satisfactory enhanced DBS check
● Full clean driving license
● Confident in using IT platforms, databases, and digital communication tools.
Desirable Criteria
● A passion for staying up to date with worldwide developments in science, technology,
engineering, and maths.
● Experience in using spaces to support learning or community development.
● Knowledge of sustainability practices in operations and visitor engagement.
● Project management qualifications or equivalent experience.
● Experience with CRM systems and membership platforms
● Experience in science communication or in working with families, adults, and children.
● Strong customer service skills and experience.
● Level 3 or equivalent qualification in a STEM subject.
Working Conditions

The primary location for this role is Cambridge Science Centre at Trinity Centre, Cambridge
Science Park, CB4 0FN; however, travel to secondary sites and the main office will be required.
One working weekend per month will also be required.

Cystic Fibrosis Trust is the only UK-wide charity dedicated to uniting for a life unlimited for everyone affected by cystic fibrosis (CF). We are working towards a brighter future for everyone with cystic fibrosis by funding cutting-edge research, driving up standards of care and supporting people with the condition and their loved ones every step of the way. 

Our team of dedicated staff, volunteers, and Trustees work alongside people affected by cystic fibrosis to fund life-changing research, promote world-class clinical care, and provide information, advice and support and our work relies on the generous donations of our supporters. 

About the role

As Director of Finance and Resources and with an oversight of a £15m budget, we are looking for a strong, corporate business leader operating at a senior level to help take Cystic Fibrosis Trust forward on our exciting journey towards a life unlimited by cystic fibrosis and optimising our finance and resources to deliver maximum impact for people with cystic fibrosis.

You will lead and develop a high performing multidisciplinary team of Heads including Finance, IT, Facilities, People and Organisation Development, Strategy and Business Intelligence, Company Secretariat functions as well as work closely with the Senior Leadership Team, Board of Trustees and other internal and external stakeholders. Please note this is a UK based role.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Financial leadership of the Trust’s financial management strategy and statutory reporting and audit processes as well as reporting to our Boards and Committees.
• Digital and information systems: Lead IT and Digital development and implementation strategies, including delivery of the new CRM replacement going live in 2026 (MS Dynamics).
• People and Organisation Development: Lead best practice in our people management strategies, policies and practices as well as championing diversity and inclusion and staff learning and development.
• Business planning: Support organisational business planning and strategy development working closely with the CEO, Board of Trustees and our other internal and external stakeholders including people with cystic fibrosis.
• Facilities: Ensure our working environment and facilities support the delivery of our objectives in a cost effective and supportive way.
• Compliance and Governance: Be Company Secretary, ensuring appropriate governance systems and controls are in place and for reporting to relevant statutory bodies.  Be responsible for our Data and ensuring compliance with GDPR, have oversight of Safeguarding and oversee complaints management and employment law compliance.

To be the right person for this role, the requirements you will need to meet include:

• To be a qualified accountant (CCAB recognised or equivalent) with minimum five years post‑qualification experience and ongoing CPD. 
• Successful experience in a business leadership role to operate at a Director/Board level and as a senior leadership team member. 
• Experience of developing effective short and long term business and financial strategies.
• Managing complex budgets, financial modelling and projections.
• Experience of directing, leading and developing multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience of working successfully in a changing organisation where flexibility, agility and adaptability are essential.
• In-depth and up to date knowledge of best practice financial management and reporting under the Charity SORP and charity governance practices.
• In-depth and up to date knowledge of best practice HR/people management, knowledge of employment law and Data Protection regulations.
• Strong understanding of IT systems management and development and the ability to champion the use of digital solutions.
• Understanding and commitment to diversity and inclusion and our charitable cause, mission and values.
• Highly numerate with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to travel for work and/or work occasional unsocial hours if required.

Please note that this role will require a satisfactory DBS check before joining us and we will arrange the DBS check for the successful candidate.

You will also need to have the Right to Work in the UK before joining us and we will check this. We do not hold a Home Office Sponsorship Licence and therefore cannot offer visa sponsorship for any of our roles.

If this sounds like the right role for you and if you think you would fit well within a passionate, friendly and high-performing and highly supportive team, please get in touch!

Closing date and interview date

Closing date for completed applications is midnight Monday 12 January 2026.

Interviews expected Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 January 2026.

Please note we reserve the right to bring forward or extend the closing date if necessary.  Therefore, if you are interested in this role, please submit your application as early as possible.

No agencies please. 

How to apply:

For more details about the job and requirements, please visit our website or use the application button provided.

Our commitment to an inclusive workplace

Cystic Fibrosis Trust aims to be an inclusive workplace where everyone belongs, can be themselves and achieve their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain staff with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives; particularly people who have cystic fibrosis, people who identify as being from an ethnic minority group, as LGBTQ+ and people with disabilities. 

It is our policy not to discriminate against any person because of their age, gender reassignment, being married or in a civil partnership, being pregnant or on maternity leave, disability (physical and mental), race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex, sexual orientation or union membership.

Benefits: Benefits include flexible working, 30 days annual leave plus recognised bank holidays (pro-rata if part time), contributory pension scheme, healthcare cash plan covering dental, optical, 24/7 GP service, and an employee assistance programme.

REF-225 504

HCPT is seeking a visionary and results-driven Strategic Director of Fundraising and Communications to lead the organisation’s income growth from £650,000 to over £2 million by October 2028. This role is pivotal in shaping and delivering a multi-stream fundraising strategy and a compelling communications approach that amplifies HCPT’s mission and impact.

The Strategic Director of Fundraising and Communications will ensure that HCPT’s mission is visible, engaging for our existing and new pilgrims and supporters and is well funded to ensure we can deliver THE BEST pilgrimage experience we can offer as defined and measured by our beneficiaries and volunteers.

This is a senior role in volunteer-led organisation and as such the successful postholder will be required to exercise flexibility with evening and weekend work to meet the business needs of the charity, given the availability of our volunteer leaders who have professional commitments during the day.

Are you an experienced organiser ready to take on a leadership role in advancing workers’ rights across the region? The ITF is seeking a Regional Lead Organiser to drive major organising programmes and strengthen union capacity.

About the Role

As Regional Lead Organiser, you will take on a strategic leadership role, shaping and driving the organising agenda across the Asia Pacific region. You will support the Regional Secretary and global organising teams by coordinating complex projects, developing long-term organising strategies, and building affiliate capacity.

You will mentor and guide Regional Organisers, support cross-country cooperation, and help develop effective campaign structures within affiliates. You will work directly with unions, workers and stakeholders across the region, providing expert advice, delivering training and helping build sustainable organising programmes.

The role involves strategic planning, field-level engagement, research, curriculum development and communication with a broad range of partners. It is central to advancing the ITF’s organising mission.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading regional organising projects aligned with ITF strategies.
• Leading on membership expansion across the regions
• Mentoring and guiding Regional Organisers.
• Supporting affiliates in strategy development and campaign planning.
• Coordinating regional organising workplans.
• Engaging with companies and regulators to support campaign goals.
• Designing and delivering training for union leaders.
• Monitoring, evaluating and reporting on progress.
• Supporting cross-border organising activities.

About You

You are an experienced organiser with a deep understanding of union power, worker mobilisation and long-term movement-building. You bring credibility as a practitioner and strong leadership qualities.

You can design organising strategies, analyse power structures and guide unions towards impactful and sustainable approaches. You are skilled at managing multiple projects and adapting to unpredictable situations.

You communicate confidently with workers, union leaders, companies and government bodies, and you have a strong ability to bring people together around shared goals.

• Extensive organising experience and mentoring capability.
• Strong leadership skills
• Strong understanding of union structures and power-building strategies.
• Experience in multicultural environments.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Training and facilitation experience.
• Strong project management skills.
• Willingness to travel within the region.
• Experience coordinating multi-country organising initiatives.

Why Join Us?

This role allows you to make a significant contribution to strengthening the labour movement across the Asia Pacific region.

You will work within a supportive, mission-driven organisation that promotes innovation, collaboration and learning.

Your leadership will help build long-term organising capacity and advance worker rights throughout the region.

Purpose of the job

This role is responsible for the design of UK Youth’s support to young people, youth organisations and youth workers. This could include structured youth work programmes, funding and grants+ programmes, professional development programmes, and campaigns.

You will lead and oversee end-to-end design processes, ensuring that UK Youth develops fully packaged offers that respond to the evidence base and people’s needs, drive forward our strategy and achieve incredible impact. You will work across UK Youth teams, with external design partners, and meaningfully involving young people and the professionals who support them in the design process.

You will be experienced in developing high quality funding propositions (proactively and in response to new business opportunities). You will be confident in taking a human-centred design approach to tackle some of the youth sector’s knottiest problems.  You will design solutions to important problems, ensuring that they are feasible, equitable, impactful and scalable.

In 2026, our priority topics for youth work programmes and network development are: mental health and wellbeing, employability, social cohesion and community safety.

 As a leader, you will work closely with research, evaluation, policy, service delivery, network development, and fundraising teams. You will help to improve the skills and confidence of colleagues across UK Youth to apply design methods in their own work and collaborate effectively with the Design team.

Why work at UK Youth?

UK Youth wants all young people to be equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives. Youth work can be life changing (and even life saving.) In 2026, we will be launching our new strategy, positioning UK Youth to unlock youth work so that every young person in the UK can benefit. We work with others to ensure that the youth sector is strengthened and that provision is youth-led, evidence-informed, and delivers high-quality outcomes.

 UK Youth plays a unique role in addressing the lack of investment in the youth sector, the lack of cross-sector understanding in how youth work makes a difference, and the limited opportunities to embed effective solutions. These factors lead to mass inequality of access to youth services for young people. Come and be part of this change in a driven and supportive team that puts evidence at the heart of our work.

Role Responsibilities

• Designing Solutions

• Developing new business and funding propositions

• Embedding Human Centred Design

• Building a strong external network to support the Design team’s work

• Operations

Experience we're after

• Significant experience of leading and overseeing the development of new business propositions and proposals to time-limited funding opportunities

• Significant experience of designing interventions (digital and/or physical) for young people and/or those who support them 

• Experience using human-centred-design methods and mindsets; managing projects across the end-to-end design process

• Proven track record of inspiring and motivating diverse teams and improving collaborative ways of working across teams and departments

• Experience of developing high quality programme content and curricula for young people, youth workers and/or outdoor learning instructors (desirable)

• Experience of commissioning and managing external design freelancers and consultants (desirable)

• Experience of designing and/or delivering professional development programmes (desirable)

What we can offer you

We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance, excellent learning and development opportunities and vibrant organisational culture:

• Flexible/Agile Working

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)

• Funded training provided in; Safeguarding, GDPR, Information and Cyber Security & Equality & Diversity

• Other training available in support of your personal and professional development

• Pension scheme (currently UK Youth match employee contributions up to 5%)

• Membership of our life insurance scheme which would pay-out up to 4 times your salary

• Employee Assistance Programme to support employees both professionally and personally

• 20% discount off bookings at Avon Tyrrell, our New Forest Outdoor Centre, including camping, lodges and outdoor activities.

• IT equipment provided for the duration of contract

• CycleScheme and TechScheme

How to apply

If you would like to be considered for this fantastic opportunity, please complete an application via our completely anonymised recruitment system provided by Applied which looks to create a fair and unbiased application process for all. Scroll to the top of the page and start your application.

Closing date: Sunday 4th January 2026 at 23:59pm

Provisional Interview Dates: 12th and 13th January 2026

As this role involves working in a regulated environment with young people, any offer will be conditional to satisfactory background checks, which include criminal record check and employment reference.

If you’re a purpose‑driven CEO with a deep passion for animal welfare, this is your opportunity to steer a trusted charity as it transforms for a sustainable future.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue is embarking on an exciting phase of strategic revitalisation. As a leading animal welfare charity with a proud history since 1965, we are seeking a visionary and dynamic Chief Executive Officer to lead us into our next chapter. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our charity and ensuring the animals in our care receive the very best support.

As Chief Executive of Margaret Green Animal Rescue, you’ll lead a proud organisation delivering rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming, and providing lifetime care for animals with complex needs across Dorset and Devon since 1965. You’ll harness the charity’s tangible local footprint across three rescue centres and a network of retail shops to elevate outcomes, scale supporter engagement, and embed operational excellence.

You’ll be the catalyst for significant strategic change—partnering closely with the Board of Trustees to set bold transformational objectives and KPIs. You’ll transform our operating model to meet current and future needs, oversee a data and IT modernisation programme to strengthen insight, efficiency and compliance (from donor management and welfare tracking to retail operations), steward budgets and risk with rigour, and act as the charity’s primary spokesperson to media, partners and the wider community.

The role is full‑time, based at Head Office in Church Knowle, Dorset, with regular travel across centres and shops, and offers a competitive package including 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays. We welcome experienced CEOs and senior leaders who bring strategic planning, change delivery and inclusive leadership.

The Role

As CEO, you will provide inspirational leadership and strategic direction, working closely with the Board of Trustees to deliver our mission and vision. You will be responsible for:

• Leading the development and implementation of a revitalised strategic plan, ensuring alignment with our values and ambitions
• Driving operational excellence across all areas, including animal welfare, fundraising, retail, and administration
• Championing a ‘One Charity’ culture, embedding consistent ethics and best practices across all teams and locations
• Acting as the primary spokesperson, enhancing our profile and engagement with supporters, partners, and the wider community
• Overseeing financial stewardship, risk management, and the effective use of data and technology to support organisational goals
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and charity governance requirements

About You

We are looking for an exceptional leader who is passionate about animal welfare and ethical leadership. The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven senior leadership experience, ideally within the charity, animal welfare, or related sectors
• Demonstrable experience in strategic planning, organisational development, and change management
• Strong financial acumen and experience in budget management and income generation
• Experience in data and IT management, including digital transformation
• Excellent communication, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement skills
• A commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare

Experience in retail operations, fundraising, and working with Boards of Trustees is desirable.

What We Offer

• Full-time role (37.5 hours per week) with flexibility for additional hours as required
• Competitive salary (£65-80k depending on experience) and benefits, including 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), business expenses, and mobile phone provision
• The chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of animals and the communities we serve

Join us at this pivotal moment and help shape the future of Margaret Green Animal Rescue. If you are ready to lead with vision, compassion, and drive, we would love to hear from you.

Location: Hybrid
Department: Member Services
Salary: circa.£60,000
Contract Type: Permanent

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Association of Colleges (AoC) as an Area Director for the West Midlands region. AoC is the national voice for further education colleges in England, representing almost 95% of the sector and supporting over 2.2 million students every year. As a not-for-profit organisation established by colleges, for colleges, we are committed to transforming lives through education, skills and opportunity.

In this role, the Area Director is our senior representative and primary contact for member colleges across the West Midlands region. This is an influential role, working closely with college Boards, CEOs/principals and senior teams to understand and meet their needs. You will champion and represent colleges with key stakeholders, including devolved authorities, and engage members in AoC’s policy and public affairs work.

We are seeking a strong leader with excellent interpersonal and influencing skills, gained from working in a complex stakeholder environment. You will need a deep understanding of colleges and the further education policy and political environment, ideally supported by experience in the FE sector. Strong local knowledge of the region’s social and economic context will also be essential.

We are a values-led organisation with a culture of high performance and commitment. In return for your expertise, we offer a great package of rewards and a flexible working environment based on mutual trust.

If you’re a confident, strategic and collaborative professional looking to make a difference in an influential role, we’d love to hear from you!

At AoC, we value trust, flexibility and professional growth. You’ll join a high-performing, mission-led organisation that offers generous benefits, flexible working, and opportunities to develop your career while making a positive impact on the FE community.

Hours: Full Time, 37.5 Hours per week

How to Apply

If you think you have the skills, experience, and attributes to hit the ground running in this position, we would welcome your application. Click 'apply now' below.

To be considered for this role, your application must be submitted and received by 10am on 15 December 2025.

Interviews:

Date: W/C 5 January 2026
Location: Onsite, Birmingham Metropolitan College

AoC is committed to providing equal opportunities and embracing diversity. We encourage applications from everyone and will not discriminate against any applicants on the basis of age, disability, sex, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

Thank you for your interest in this opportunity to join the AoC team.

Benefits: 30 days’ annual leave 8 bank holidays paid Christmas closure, Car Allowance, Bank Holiday Swap, Work remotely whilst abroad, Employee Assistance Programme, Enhanced family leave, Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme, Cycle to Work, Paid volunteering leave, Regular team socials, Eye-care contributions

REF-225 274

About Animal Defenders International
London–Los Angeles–Bogota–South Africa. Animal Defenders International (ADI) is a UK non-profit; with reg. charity Animal Defenders International Foundation & Lord Dowding Fund for Humane Research; Animal Defenders International Inc.US (nonprofit), and Animal Defenders International South Africa, PBO (charity). ADI works for replacement of animals in research and testing; legal protection to end use of animals in entertainment; wildlife trade; farming; protection of our shared environment. When governments ban the use of all, or wild animals in entertainment, or wildlife pets, ADI provides support to remove and relocate the animals, emptying all circus cages in Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Guatemala. The ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, South Africa, is home to over 30 rescued big cats from circuses, illegal pet trade, zoos. 

Job Title: Director of Fundraising

Organisation: Animal Defenders International (ADI)

Location: London, Vauxhall SE11 (hybrid, remote and office)

Terms: Salary: £60-70,000/year, (commensurate with experience/qualifications). Permanent, full time. Benefits: Annual leave 20 days/year/national holidays/5 days office closure Christmas–New Year/Stakeholder pension.

Reports to: Senior directors (ADI President and Vice President)

About the Role and Objectives:

Developing and growing relations with supporters, donors, public, foundations, and corporate friends. Passionate and well organized, you will change the world for animals by ensuring every department’s work is fully funded – as well as the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, South Africa, home to our rescued lions and tigers. Duties:

• Production of annual fundraising and marketing plan: growing supporter base, increasing engagement and retention; sustained giving; digital and postal direct response; increasing donor engagement and retention; planned giving; special events/calendar dates; major gifts; foundation grants; corporate support; legacies, trusts, estates; new income research. Targets for annual, quarterly, income.
• Manages fundraising calendar, mailings, events, targets, tracking.
• Grant Applications, foundations, corporate: Identify, plan, approach, draft grant applications/letters of inquiry and collateral for foundations, trusts, corporate partnerships and gifts, major donor gifts, and other potential sources of income (collaboration with senior directors).
• Regular liaison with high donors, foundations, estates, corporate donors, sponsors.
• Reporting: income tracking, recommendations for new approaches, supervise production of data for quarterly reports. Weekly liaison with senior directors.

Publications, Social, Websites, Online & Print

• Drafting copy, editing, production; collaborates with public relations/senior directors
• Oversees production of print and online publications – liaison with external graphic designers (collaboration with public relations director)
• Websites – contribute content. New website project with public relations director
• Advertising, marketing, ADI YouTube channel – develop fundraising, marketing opportunities.
• Social media posts – contribute copy, graphics
• E-News alerts to supporters (collaboration with public relations director)
• Contributes development section to Annual Report
• Contributes development article for Rescuer (quarterly)
• Other contributions to publications as needed

Management, oversight, reporting:

• Management of UK Supporter Engagement Team.
• Oversight of Raiser’s Edge NXT, Engaging Networks, interface with financial database and records; liaison with Chief Financial Officer.
• Monitor, manage, daily: data entry, gifts, acknowledgements, income tracking, donor communications; distribution of newsletters; calls to action; appeals. Reporting.
• Monitor, manage: reconciliations, data manipulation, data-integrity projects, audits, segmentation, quarterly and other reports.
• Oversee planning, mailings, responses, data management.
• Monthly and quarterly reports: income, mailings, gifts, trusts, estates, corporate, other.

Who should apply:

You have the necessary skills and experience, with at least 4 years’ experience in fundraising planning and management for charities, including:

• Educated to degree level in a related field (or equivalent experience) (required).
• A successful track record in direct response campaign fundraising and marketing.
•  Excellent written English, you can demonstrate impactful and persuasive content for high donors, foundations, corporate support, supporters, social media, marketing and legacy promotion (required).
• You can plan and deliver programs for regular and planned giving, major gifts, estates, support from foundations, corporate support (required).
• Strong technical skills, data management, manipulation; MS Office suite, Excel/Google, other; competent with digital research (NB: ChatGPT not permitted for writing ADI product) (required).
• Strong Raiser’s Edge NXT and Engaging Networks skills (or similar); segmentation, creating lists and reports, data hygiene, audits (required).
• Some knowledge of social media tools, e.g. Canva, Photoshop, or other.
• Management of external vendors for direct response campaigns, production of merchandise catalogue and other sales, marketing, collateral.
• Ensures compliance with ADI’s language, policies, communications style guidelines, editing and publications authorization process (required).
• Skilled at organization and multitasking, you can successfully handle competing priorities and deadlines (required).
• Supporter Engagement culture: strong verbal and written communication skills, you can create a friendly, welcoming approach, for supporters with their donations and advocacy.
• Oversight and Management of staff and supporter relations (required):

o Create friendly, positive, service-oriented approach to help supporters donate and advocate for animals.

o Diligent processing/handling of donations, acknowledgements, correspondence, phone calls.

o Integrity and confidentiality in the handling of sensitive and confidential information

o Integrity of financial records with finance database; liaison with Chief Financial Officer.

• You are reliable, able to work both independently and collaboratively.

About Us:

ADI is Great Nonprofits Top-rated; Charity Navigator 4-star. Operating from London, Los Angeles, Bogota and South Africa. Exposes animal suffering and works for legal protection; replacement of animals used in research; ending the suffering of animals in entertainment; movies, advertising, circuses, sport. Wildlife trade, environment. Once animal circuses are banned ADI helps governments with implementation and relocation of the survivors to ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, South Africa: ADI has featured in CBS 60 Minutes, Animal Planet Discovery features and made award-winning documentary, Lion Ark (broadcast in over 40 countries).

ADI internal policy:

ADI is dedicated to ending the suffering of animals and works for their legal protection. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment, and a plant-based lifestyle is preferred. ADI is also committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all, regardless of background, age, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, physical ability or other.

Chief Executive Officer

Salary: £49, 282 - £54,495 per annum

Location: Gorse Hill Studios, Trafford, Manchester (Some remote working will be considered)

Contract Type: Full time, permanent

About Gorse Hill Studios

Gorse Hill Studios is a dynamic and ambitious youth and community arts charity. At the heart of our organisation is a belief that all young people deserve to feel valued, supported and inspired. We work with young people to build confidence, creativity and community connections, ensuring they have the opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive.

We believe that creativity can transform lives, and we are committed to placing young people at the centre of everything we do. Their voices, ideas and experiences help shape our programmes, partnerships and strategic direction.

We are entering an exciting phase of growth and development. Our team currently includes 20 core staff and a wider network of volunteers and creative practitioners, delivering a diverse portfolio of youth arts sessions, community engagement projects, creative wellbeing initiatives and partnership-led activity with local schools and organisations. The CEO will play a pivotal role in leading this portfolio, strengthening our impact, championing youth voice and ensuring young people continue to shape our future direction as we move into the next chapter of our development.

About the Role

As CEO, you will provide strategic, compassionate and visionary leadership, ensuring Gorse Hill Studios delivers its mission to empower and inspire young people. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will hold overall responsibility for the organisation’s performance, culture, operations and long-term sustainability. This role calls for someone who demonstrates strong strategic insight with the ability to influence and inspire others, using emotional intelligence and collaborative leadership to build positive internal and external relationships.

A fundamental part of this role is your commitment to embedding young people’s voice in decision making. You will champion their perspectives, ensuring programme development, strategy and organisational culture reflect the needs and aspirations of the young people we serve.

You will also be an ambassador for the charity, building trusted relationships with young people, partners, funders and the wider community. This role requires a leader who is values led, resilient and passionate about supporting young people through the arts and creative engagement.

Roles and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Governance

• Lead on the development and delivery of the charity’s long-term strategy, with young people meaningfully involved
• Ensure compliance with all statutory, regulatory and governance requirements, including Charity Commission expectations and safeguarding duties
• Provide clear, timely reporting to the Board
• Support the Board to operate effectively

Financial Management and Income Generation

• Oversee budgeting, financial planning and responsible management of all funds
• Lead a diverse income generation strategy
• Identify sustainable opportunities for organisational growth

Operational Management and Programme Delivery

• Oversee day to day operations and ensure systems are effective
• Ensure programmes are high quality, inclusive and reflective of young people’s needs and feedback
• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, or ensure robust safeguarding practices across the organisation

People Leadership and Culture

• Inspire, support and lead a dedicated staff and volunteer team
• Champion a positive, inclusive and collaborative working culture
• Oversee recruitment, wellbeing and performance management

External Relations and Advocacy

• Act as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for Gorse Hill Studios
• Build strong relationships with partners, funders and stakeholders
• Advocate for and with young people locally and nationally
• Represent the charity confidently at events and in the media

Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Senior leadership experience in the charity, youth, arts or wider non-profit sector
• Strong financial management skills
• Proven success in fundraising or income generation
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices in youth settings
• Experience leading teams and developing positive organisational cultures
• Strategic leadership experience

Desirable

• Experience in the youth arts or creative community sector
• Understanding of the Trafford community landscape

Values and Commitment

We are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals who share these values and are passionate about empowering young people.

An enhanced DBS check will be required.

Application Details

To apply, please submit your CV and covering letter.

Closing date: 19 January

Interview date: 23 January at Gorse Hill Studios

Interviews will include a stakeholder panel and a formal interview.

REF-225 658