Programme manager jobs in London

 
Job Description

Job Title:Catchment Partnership Programme Manager

Salary: £42,546 - £48,846 (Manager Band B, Manager Band C,)

Contract length: Permanent, Full time.   

Location:Hybrid, flexible, based at Thames21 office in Guildhall and/ or Bromley by Bow

Responsible to: Head of Improving Rivers

Responsible for: Catchment Partnership Officers and Roding Rises Project Manager

About Thames21

Thames21 is an environmental charity that works across London and the Thames Basin to deliver high-impact, nature-based solutions to the climate and biodiversity crisis by restoring rivers, while also connecting communities to their local green-blue spaces and inspiring long-term stewardship of them. 

Diversity at Thames21

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Thames21 is key to our success and as such we employ staff from a diverse range of backgrounds, this we feel is key in ensuring that everybody has an equal opportunity and is not treated differently or discriminated against because of their characteristics. We value the voices of our individual employees, and we strive to work in a collaborative, innovative balanced way. The postholder must actively support this.

Purpose of the job

Thames21 is seeking an energetic, experienced and committed person to lead our team of Catchment Partnership hosts. This role will involve overseeing the development of our portfolio of 10 hosted and co-hosted Catchment Partnerships across a diverse landscape of urban and rural river catchments spanning London and the wider Thames Basin.

Each partnership is unique, and we pride ourselves in developing each according to the local partners’ vision and as is appropriate for the character of the area and river. Our primary aim is to deliver the Catchment Based Approach and tangible on-the-ground improvements that achieve clean, healthy rivers which deliver social benefits for our communities.

The successful candidate will have operational experience at catchment level as well as management experience. The candidate will take a strategic overview of all catchment partnerships and guide our team of Catchment Partnership hosts and officers, enabling the enhanced delivery of the four priority themes: –

Stakeholder and community engagement as part of active, delivery focused partnerships.
Project identification and development to support delivery of catchment plans, sub-catchment plans and Thames21’s 5-year plan.
Successful fundraising for delivery of river catchment improvement projects.
Knowledge sharing, to bring people together in a way of working that is inclusive, collaborative, cross boundary and catchment wide.

Finally, the role will take a lead in ensuring the Thames21 Catchment Officer/host role is resiliently funded by working closely with partner organisations to increase investment in catchment partnerships to deliver healthy rivers and catchments.

Key responsibilities

· Work with Thames21’s Catchment Partnership Officers/hosts to develop their Catchment Partnership networks and ensure each is delivering against clear catchment and sub catchment action plans.

· Lead on the administration and reporting of Catchment Partnerships programme and line management of the Catchment Partnership team.

· Oversee the management of the Catchment Partnership Team budget, working proactively to identify and fill any funding shortfalls.

· In partnership with the Head of Improving Rivers and Catchment Partnerships Officers, develop each catchment partnerships value to partner organisations with a view to them investing in the catchment partnership host role.

· Support Thames21’s strategic work with external stakeholders through working alongside the Chief Executive Officer to administer the River Partnerships in London (RiPL) group.

· Work closely with Environment Agency catchment coordinators to develop multi-year strategic approaches to delivering national Water Environment Improvement objectives and National Success Measures for Catchment Partnerships.

· Help Catchment Partnership Officers identify, develop and raise funding for river catchment improvement projects, taking a leading role in strategic technical funding bids and working closely with the Heads of Improving Rivers and Fundraising team.

· Contribute to the strategic direction of Thames21 Improving Rivers Team and long-term. sustainability of the organisation.

· Arrange, host and coordinate Catchment Partnership Meetings including production of agendas, minutes and actions.

· Oversee the delivery of strategic projects.

This job description cannot cover every issue or task that may arise within the post at various times and the post-holder will be expected to carry out other reasonable duties from time to time which are broadly consistent with other Thames21 activities and those in this document.

This role has been reopened and the closing date role has now been extended to 5pm Friday 2nd January 2026

Interviews are expected to take place on the weeks of 12th and 19th January 2026, but this is subject to change. 

Children & Partnerships Manager

We have an exciting opportunity for a Children & Partnerships Manager to play a vital role in expanding our national referral network and ensuring more children across the UK can access the life-changing breaks we provide. This new role will work closely with our Development Director and Referrals Team to strengthen relationships with schools, Local Authorities, charities and community groups who support children aged 8–13 facing significant challenges.

Position: Children & Partnerships Manager

Location: Home-based with national travel

Salary: £32,000–£35,000 per annum

Hours: Full-time preferred (part-time considered)

Duration: 12-month fixed term (potential to extend)

Closing Date: Sunday 11th January 2026 at 11.59pm

About the role

As Children & Partnerships Manager, you will be at the forefront of driving national growth by identifying, engaging and nurturing the referral and delivery partners who help us reach the children who need us most. You will map areas of greatest need, build trusted relationships with key organisations, and support frontline professionals to confidently refer children onto our fully funded five-day breaks.

Some of your key responsibilities will include:

• Mapping UK regions with high child poverty and low current engagement to identify priority areas.
• Developing and delivering a national strategy to grow the referral base.
• Proactively seeking new partnership opportunities with MATs, Local Authorities, schools, charities and community organisations.
• Cultivating strong relationships with existing referrers and encouraging them to champion the charity within their networks.
• Representing the charity at events, networks and forums to raise awareness of our impact.
• Meeting directly with teachers, social workers and other professionals to showcase our service and explain the referral process.
• Working closely with the Referrals Team to ensure smooth onboarding of new partners and clarity around referral requirements.

About you

We are looking for a proactive and determined relationship-builder with a strong understanding of the challenges facing children and young people.

You will have the following essential skills and experience:

• Proven experience in partnership development, stakeholder engagement or network building
• Outstanding communication and influencing skills, comfortable engaging with a wide range of professionals.
• Strong relationship building capabilities and persistence in reaching key decision makers.
• Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks and travel nationally when required.
• Commitment to improving outcomes for disadvantaged children and championing equality and inclusion.
• A collaborative approach and confidence working across teams to support shared goals.

It would be desirable if you also have:

• Experience working within or alongside schools or Local Authorities.
• Understanding of child poverty, early intervention and barriers to support.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and data protection principles.

About the charity

The charity gives children and young people across the UK who face serious challenges in their lives the chance for a break that lasts a lifetime. For over 30 years, more than 20,000 children have enjoyed a week of adventure, creativity, and new friendships at our centres in Derbyshire and Cornwall. When they go home, they take with them confidence, resilience, and memories that last forever.

Everyone who works for the charity has a responsibility to promote the safeguarding and welfare of children. All successful applicants will require a DBS Disclosure.

You may also have experience in roles such as: Partnerships Manager, Engagement Manager, Network Development Manager, Children’s Services Manager, Education Partnerships Lead, Community Engagement Manager, Outreach Manager, or Stakeholder Engagement Officer, etc.. #INDNFP

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

Programme and Assessments Manager 

The role: Are you an experienced programme manager able to engage and drive impact with a diverse range of stakeholders, including leading brands, manufacturers, governmental and third sector organisations to drive continuous improvement in fair work standards – with major legislative changes on the horizon? Do you have experience of social audits and assessments and the role they can play in measuring progress and driving continuous improvement?  

Then this could be the position for you.  

We are looking for an experienced Programme Manager with sector specific expertise to manage our collaborative programme in the UK apparel and general merchandise sectors following a strategic year focussed on the evolution of the programme from the previous Fast Forward initiative.  

In this varied role you will be responsible for the day to day running of the UK Apparel and General Merchandise programme, provide developmental input and support the implementation of the key recent developments in the programme, as well as ensuring the programme maintains its integrity. You will manage relationships with all key stakeholders in the programme including brands, suppliers, audit bodies, third sector organisations and public bodies.  

You'll also manage the quality assurance of the portfolio of Stronger Together assessment methodologies – including the Fair Work Audit operated in the UK manufacturing, service provision and construction sectors. And you’ll deliver, enhance and promote brand and supplier engagement including training workshops and webinars. 

You’ll work with the Co-CEOs to ensure the programme delivers on target, on-time, on-budget, in line with the agreements and organisational objectives and guidelines. 

You will work from home and will join a friendly, supportive, and committed global team, and contribute towards creating systemic change. 

To view the full Job Description and Person Specification.

You will be UK-based with eligibility to work in the UK. You’ll join a friendly, supportive, and committed global team, and contribute towards creating systemic change. You will work remotely, but in close cooperation with a Programme Coordinator, the Co-CEOs and the rest of our team.

Who we are: We are an impact driven, not for profit organisation that provides businesses with practical training, resources, business services and collaborative programmes. We work across three continents and within multiple sectors with many organisations to achieve our wider vision of a world where all workers are recruited responsibly and have fair work, free from exploitation. 

What we can offer you 

• An 0.4 FTE contract for an initial period of 9 months.  

• Competitive salary (salary band £39,861-£51,248 gross annually for full-time, pro rata for part-time) and enhanced employee benefits.  

• Being part of an innovative, and exciting not for profit organisation 

• A friendly global team which is passionate about and committed to fair work, responsible recruitment and systemic change 

• Flexible and family-friendly working arrangements 

• UK-home-based, with regular in person and online meetings and social team gatherings. 

How to apply 

Please send us your CV and motivation letter (max. 2 pages of A4) outlining the skills and experience you have that meet the requirements of this role as outlined in the Job Description, please include ‘Application Programme and Assessments Manager’ in the subject line. 

Timeline 

• Application deadline: 23.59 | Sunday 4th January 2026 

• Shortlisting: W/c 5th January 

• First interviews: W/c 12th January 

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Access Interns Programme, a partnership between The Kartik Foundation and Variety, provides disabled young people with meaningful corporate internship opportunities to support their career aspirations. For many disabled young people, accessing work experience can be challenging due to societal barriers, lack of support, and limited opportunities. Access Interns is designed to break down these barriers, ensuring that participants gain valuable work experience, professional skills, and industry connections to help them succeed in their chosen careers.

The Access Interns Programme Manager is responsible for the successful delivery of the ACCESS INTERNS programme, overseeing the internship placement process, employer engagement, and student support. This includes managing the selection process, coordinating placements, ensuring workplace accessibility, and tracking the programme’s impact.

The role also involves working closely with corporate employers to create inclusive work environments, supporting interns throughout their placements, and expanding engagement with schools, employers, and industry leaders to ensure disabled young people have equal access to high-quality career opportunities.

ABOUT VARIETY

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

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

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

 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Programme Management

· Managing the Access Interns Programme, ensuring it is delivered to a high standard and in line with Variety’s policies and procedures

· Working with the Chief Executive Officer to set annual internship placement targets, manage the Access Interns budget and develop the Access Interns Programme.

· Overseeing the end-to-end process of the programme, from student recruitment and employer engagement to placement coordination and post-internship evaluation.

· Adhering to Variety’s Safeguarding policies and procedures and working with the Head of Programmes, by recognising that interns are vulnerable adults, and taking responsibility for their safety, welfare, and well-being throughout the programme.

· Identifying opportunities to expand and enhance the programme, ensuring it remains impactful, sustainable, and aligned with Variety’s strategic goals.

· Developing guidance materials, training sessions, and workshops to prepare students for internships and support their professional growth

· Working with the Programme’s team to input & manage programme data and reporting.

· Tracking and reporting on Programme Impact and analysing data to ensure continuous improvement.

Logistics and Coordination

· Coordinating interview schedule, employer meeting, and onboarding sessions to facilitate successful placements.

· Managing communication with interns, employers, schools, and other stakeholders, ensuring all parties are well-informed and supported.

· Organising online disability awareness training for corporate employers as part of the onboarding process, ensuring employers understand best practices for supporting disabled interns and creating accessible workplaces.

· Ensuring all necessary documentation, contracts and agreements are completed and maintained in line with Variety’s Policies and Compliance standards.

Budget and Income Generation

· Managing the Access Interns Programme budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources and cost control.

· Generating income from the programme, including securing corporate partnerships and funding opportunities to sustain and expand Access Interns.

· Working closely with the fundraising team to assist in converting Access Intern partners into Corporate Donors for Variety’s wider work.

· Working with the Chief Executive Officer to set financial targets and explore additional funding streams.

· Monitoring expenditure, tracking income, and providing financial reports on programme performance.

Student Outreach & Support

· Manage the application and selection process, ensuring fair and transparent recruitment.

· Working closely with students to support their career development, including

- CV writing and cover letter workshops

- Interview preparation sessions

- Professional skills training (e.g. workplace etiquette, communication skills, and confidence-building)

- One-on-one mentoring and guidance

· Provide guidance and support to interns throughout their journey, from pre-placement preparation to post-internship follow-up.

· Responsible for marketing to schools and colleges to increase awareness and participation.

· Ensuring students understand their rights and workplace accommodations, advocating for inclusive and accessible internships.

· Visiting schools and colleges to promote the programme, engage with students, and increase participation from disabled young people.

Employer Outreach & Support

· Building and maintaining strong relationships with corporate employers to ensure a positive and productive experience for employers participating in the programme.

· Acting as the primary point of contact for employers, providing guidance and support throughout the internship process.

· Working with employers to develop meaningful internship opportunities, ensuring placements align with both business needs and student development goals

· Addressing any challenges or concerns that arise during placements, acting as a mediator where necessary.

· Delivering pre-placement briefings for employers, setting expectations and promoting inclusive hiring practices

· Gathering feedback from employers to continuously refine and improve the programme.

Customer Service and Administration

· Working with Operations Team and external partners to devise and deploy scalable on-boarding and internship management systems.

· Providing excellent customer service to applicants and prospective applicants, giving advice and guidance over the phone, in person and via email.

· Collecting and collating impact and monitoring data.

· Providing administrative support for other Programmes depending on workload, capacity and department demand.

Other Duties and Partner Support

· Assisting with events, reporting, and stakeholder engagement related to Variety’s wider mission and partner organisations.

· Collaborating with internal and external teams to support strategic initiatives that align with the goals of the Access Interns Programme.

General Responsibilities

· Negotiate placements and work collaboratively with employers to ensure meaningful learning experiences for interns.

· Applying knowledge of disabilities, relevant laws (e.g. Equality Act 2010), and reasonable adjustments to ensure that both interns and employers receive the necessary support for a successful and inclusive internship experience

· Expand the programme’s employer network, targeting organisations in corporate sectors to enhance placement opportunities.

· To work cross functionally with other departments, regions and countries.

· To achieve the highest standards of safeguarding for the young people who complete a corporate internship by Variety by complying with all appropriate Policies and Procedures.

· Working within Variety’s Data Protection policies at all times.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

Essential:

• Proven experience in managing programmes or projects, including planning, delivery, and evaluation.

• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diverse stakeholders (e.g., employers, schools, students).

• Knowledge of disability rights, accessibility requirements, and the Equality Act 2010.

• Understanding of safeguarding principles and experience working with vulnerable adults or young people

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and persuasively.

• Strong ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and priorities effectively.

• Competence in collecting, analysing, and reporting data to measure impact and inform improvements.

• Confident using Microsoft Office and CRM or database systems.

Desirable:

• Delivering or coordinating training sessions for employers or staff.

• Experience managing budgets, monitoring expenditure, and reporting on financial performance.

• Familiarity with employability skills training, CV writing, and interview preparation.

• Experience organising workshops, meetings, or onboarding sessions.

• Ability to promote programmes to schools, colleges, and employers.

• Using impact data to drive continuous improvement.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit your CV with a cover letter explaining why you’d make a great candidate for this role. Applications will close on Friday 9th January 2026 at 5pm with interviews taking place week commencing 12th and 19 January 2026.

Please let us know if you have any accessibility requirements or need any adjustments for the interview.

MAIN BENEFITS, TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Location: Variety HQ, Camden Town, London (hybrid working, 3 days in the office per week)

Hours: 9am to 5pm

25 days holiday (we also normally give between Christmas and New Year off, but this is not contractual). In addition, after one year's continuous service, there will be an extra 2 days annual holiday for every complete year of service, up to a maximum of five days' extra holiday.

Pension 7% ER contribution, Life Assurance 4x annual salary, Company sick pay scheme, medicash benefit.

EQUALITY DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

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