Research executive jobs
About Arthritis Action
Arthritis Action is the UK charity giving hands-on, practical help to improve the quality of life of people affected by arthritis. We offer an integrated self-management approach, which looks at both the physical and mental health impact of living with arthritis. We support people living with musculoskeletal conditions through healthy eating advice, mental health resources, pain management techniques, Online Groups, employment support, and exercise advice and resources.
Purpose
The Executive Assistant (EA) will serve as the right hand to the CEO, Deputy CEO and Head of Finance & Operations (Executive Management Team – EMT) ensuring efficient day-to-day operations, handling high-level administrative support, and enabling the EMT to focus on strategic priorities.
This role demands high standards of organisation, confidentiality, professionalism, and discretion, given the EA’s access to sensitive information, strategic discussions, and senior-level correspondence. The EA will work closely with internal and external stakeholders, including staff, trustees, donors, and partners, requiring sound judgement, diplomacy, and excellent communication skills.
This is a dynamic role in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment — ideal for someone who is solutions-focused, aligned with our mission, and thrives in a collaborative, small-team setting.
Key Responsibilities – This is a new role for Arthritis Action, giving you the opportunity to bring your expertise to help us shape the role. The role will include but not be limited to:
Executive Support
- Provide high-quality administrative support to the EMT for internal and external meetings and events, including diary management, communications, organising logistics (room/venue bookings, catering, etc.), travel planning, speaking engagements and meeting coordination
- Draft correspondence, reports, presentations, and meeting agendas
- Maintain accurate and organised digital and physical files
- Assist with EMT expense claims
Board, Committees & Stakeholder Coordination
- Schedule and organise board and committee meetings
- Prepare and circulate agendas, papers, and minutes
- Support on trustee recruitment as required, including making arrangements for interviews
- Support trustee onboarding, record keeping, and compliance with charity governance requirements
- Liaise with board members and key stakeholders on behalf of the EMT
- Maintain statutory records and assist with annual reporting
Project, Fundraising & Operations Support
- Support EMT as they work with trustees and the team to develop our 2027-2030 strategy
- Aid the preparation of our 85th Anniversary in 2027
- Track deadlines and follow up on action items for the EMT
- Support on special projects, events, and fundraising initiatives
- Conduct research and prepare background materials as needed
- Assist with a large-scale digital file organisation and clean-up
PERSON SPECIFICATION
EXPERIENCE & SKILLS
- Essential
- Proven experience supporting a senior executive or leadership team.
- Outstanding organisational and time-management skills.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills including the ability to write in Plain English for a range of audiences.
- Tech-savvy with strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and scheduling tools.
- Discretion, reliability, and a high level of emotional intelligence.
- Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities.
- An understanding of, and commitment to, Arthritis Action’s vision, mission, equal opportunities and diversity.
- Desirable
- Experience in a nonprofit of charity setting
- Database experience
- Event planning or fundraising support experience
ATTRIBUTES
- Essential
- Excellent organisation and interpersonal skills.
- A self-starter, able to work on own initiative where required.
- Enthusiastic team-player with a can-do attitude.
- Able and willing to travel within the UK.
- Proven experience supporting a senior executive or leadership team.
Arthritis Action is a UK charity helping people with arthritis to live fuller lives with less pain.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Senior Prospect Development Manager
Salary: £55,000 - £60,000 plus
Reports to: Head of Philanthropy Intelligence, Planning & Performance
Directorate: ?Strategy & Philanthropy?
Contract: ?Permanent?
Hours: ?Full time 35 hours per week? (flexible working requests will be considered)
Location: ?Stratford, London? ?Office-based with high flexibility (1-2 days per week in the office)?
Closing date: Wednesday 26 November 2025 23:55
This vacancy may close earlier if a high volume of applications is received or once a suitable candidate is found, therefore we strongly recommend that you apply early to avoid disappointment. Please let us know if there is anything about the recruitment process that you would like to discuss, in particular if there are any changes or adjustments that would make it easier for you to apply.
At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer.
We're a collective force, tackling cancer on all fronts to save and improve lives. We fund pioneering research, we provide reliable and accessible information, we influence policy, and we encourage positive behaviour change. We are a passionate team of professionals driven by purpose, striving to accelerate breakthroughs in cancer research and treatment. We are the world's biggest charitable funder of cancer research raising on average £640m a year.
As we expand our efforts, we're recruiting an inspiring, Senior Prospect Development Manager to join one of the most successful philanthropic fundraising teams in the UK. We're a dynamic, innovative team of talented professionals spearheading the ambitious £400m More Research, Less Cancer campaign. With over £230m already raised, we're making strides to revolutionise cancer research, focusing on; The Francis Crick Institute, Cancer Grand Challenges, Translation & Innovation and our Future Leaders' programme.
In this role, you'll lead a team of 6 to define, implement and own a robust prospect identification, research and management strategy, ensuring it is informed by insight and enables relationship managers to build successful and long-lasting relationships.
What will I be doing?
Support the development of, deliver and evaluate a long-term prospect identification and prospect management strategy for Philanthropy, working across other CRUK teams as necessary.
Develop and manage the methodology for the allocation and transfer of prospects, drawing on supporter insights, performance analysis and funding project knowledge.
Create and implement systems and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to evaluate and report on the impact of prospect development activity and progress.
Establish a resource planning system for the team and ensure the team can deliver against team strategy and meet the day-to-day needs of fundraising teams.
Effective prioritisation, planning and delivery of prospect research activity (including prospect identification, research profiles, network analysis) to increase our knowledge of potential donors, partners and ambassadors.
Lead the strategic development and implementation of CRUK's prospect management system and provide expert advice and guidance to frontline fundraisers.
Prioritisation, planning and delivery of due diligence research and escalation in accordance with policies and contribute to the ongoing development of policy and processes.
Provide regular reports to boards, senior sponsors and committees on pipeline development.
Deliver specialised research to facilitate the cultivation and solicitation of our highest value prospects by the Campaign Boards, Chief Executive and Executive Directors.
What are we looking for?
Experience of leading a prospect management and research function.
Extensive experience of working within the field of high value fundraising and relationship management.
Significant experience of delivering a prospect identification strategy and prospect management system.
Experience of commissioning and analysing management information and producing findings and recommendations.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present complex information in an accessible format.
Experience of setting up, analysing and evaluating activity and programmes.
Experience and knowledge of using and championing databases.
Excellent stakeholder, project management and planning skills with ability to prioritise workload.
Strong strategic thinker with and long-term planning skills and the ability to execute and contribute to the development of the department and directorate strategy.
Proven ability to influence, persuade and negotiate with people across teams and levels as well as the ability to explain difficult issues and works to build consensus and positive solution.
Our organisation values are designed to guide all that we do.
Bold: Act with ambition, courage and determination
Credible: Act with rigour and professionalism
Human: Act to have a positive impact on people
Together: Act inclusively and collaboratively
We're looking for people who can believe in and embody these organisation values and can use them to drive forward progress against our mission to beat cancer.
What will I gain?
We create a working environment that supports your wellbeing and provide a generous benefits package, a wide range of career and personal development opportunities and high-quality tools. Our policies and processes enable you to improve your work-life balance, take positive steps in your career and achieve your personal wellbeing goals.
You can explore our benefits by visiting our .
How do I apply?
We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. CVs are required for all applications; but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to complete the work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively.
At Alzheimer's Society, we're a team of advisors, supporters, fundraisers, researchers, and advocates - united by one purpose: to make life better for everyone affected by dementia.
We're looking for a Company Secretary and Governance Lead to play an important leadership role in ensuring our charity operates to the highest standards of governance, transparency and integrity.
Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer and working closely with the Chair of the Board of Trustees, Chief Executive, Executive Leadership Team and Board Committees, this role will shape and strengthen our governance framework to enable confident, informed decision-making that supports delivery of our strategy and impact. This is an outstanding opportunity for a strategic governance leader who can combine technical expertise with strong relationship management and a genuine passion for driving good governance that supports our mission.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as Company Secretary for Alzheimer's Society and its subsidiaries, ensuring compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House requirements.
- Provide trusted advice to the Chair, Board of Trustees and Executive Leadership Team on their legal, fiduciary and regulatory responsibilities.
- Oversee governance arrangements, ensuring effective information flow and clear decision-making structures across the organisation.
- Develop and lead a team of Governance professionals, promoting a culture of high performance, collaboration, accountability and inclusivity.
- Lead the design and continual improvement of our governance framework, embedding transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision making.
- Serve as Whistleblowing Officer for the Society, and champion integrity and openness in all governance processes.
- Support the governance team to deliver efficient Board and Committee meetings, forward planning, and statutory reporting.
- Foster strong relationships across teams, embedding governance and compliance as enablers of effective, ethical leadership.
About You
You're a confident, collaborative leader who combines professional rigour with empathy, diplomacy and a values-led approach. You bring the strategic insight to advise senior leaders and the operational focus to ensure governance processes run seamlessly.
We're looking for someone who can:
- Demonstrate a strong track record of advising Boards and senior leaders on governance, compliance and organisational risk.
- Bring excellent knowledge of charity law, company law, and the UK governance landscape.
- Communicate complex information clearly and credibly to a range of audiences.
- Lead with authenticity and integrity, building trusted relationships across all levels.
- Drive continuous improvement — from simplifying processes to fostering a culture of learning and accountability.
- Lead and develop a small team, championing collaboration and professional growth.
- Model Alzheimer's Society's values of Determination, Better Together, Compassion and Trusted Expertise in all that you do.
This role is Home-based with occasional travel across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Important Dates:
- The deadline for applications is 23:59 on Sunday 30th November 2025.
- Interview invites will be issued from 8th December.
- Involvement (lived-experience) Panel will take place on 12th December 2025.
- Competency Panel interview will take place at our Crutched Friar's London Office on 16th December 2025.
- Candidates will have the opportunity to meet with our CEO and Chair of the Board of Trustees virtually on 17th December 2025.
About Alzheimer's Society
Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer. One in three people born in the UK today will develop dementia in their lifetime.
At Alzheimer’s Society, we’re the UK’s leading dementia charity and the only one to tackle all aspects of dementia by giving help and hope to people living with dementia today and in the future. We give vital support to people facing the most frightening times of their lives, while also funding groundbreaking research and campaigning to make dementia the priority it should be.
Together with our supporters, we’re working towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives.
Our values make sure that our focus is clear for the challenges and opportunities ahead and remind us of what we all stand for.
Our commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
We need to ensure the voices around our table better reflect and understand the communities we exist to serve. We strongly encourage individuals to apply who have a disability, impairment or health condition or individuals who identify as Black, Asian or from another minority ethnic background, as these groups are currently under-represented at Alzheimer's Society.
We want everyone we work with, as a colleague, volunteer, supporter, or someone we support, to feel included and that they belong at Alzheimer's Society.
Our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy here along with our internal employee forum and Employee Lived Experience network groups help us promote inclusion and belonging, becoming an engaged and inclusive organisation for all our people.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are seeking our first Head of Fundraising to join our Senior Leadership Team, build the function and leave a legacy.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you will lead on developing and delivering our fundraising strategy, with primary focus on trusts and foundations and corporate partnerships, with the potential to grow individual philanthropy in the future.
You will be a key ambassador for the organisation, building and managing strong, long-term relationships with funders who share our mission. You’ll bring vision, strategic clarity and emotional intelligence to developing compelling cases for support, always ensuring alignment with organisational goals and understanding that for us, income is a vehicle to impact.
You’ll manage and develop one Senior Officer initially, with the possibility that we may be able to expand the team as income grows. The Senior Officer post is currently empty, so we hope that you’ll be able to be involved in the recruitment of this post enabling you to shape your own team. You’ll also play a wider role in shaping the organisation’s strategy and culture as part of a collaborative and ambitious leadership team.
Key responsibilities:
Strategy and Leadership
- Lead development and execution of a fundraising strategy focused on trusts,foundations and corporates (with a possible addition of individual philanthropy further down the line).
- Act as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to organisational strategy, planning and culture, and supporting the Chief Executive to report to the board on fundraising.
- Manage, develop and grow the Senior Officer role; build a high-performing team.
Fundraising and Relationship Management
- Create and manage a pipeline of funding opportunities, securing multi-year grants and strategic partnerships that support our research, policy and delivery ambitions, and reflect our values.
- Lead the development of major funding bids - including drafting proposals and coordinating input from SLT colleagues and other relevant team members.
- Cultivate, steward and deepen relationships with existing and prospective funders, acting as a confident and credible ambassador.
- Collaborate closely with colleagues to develop strong proposals, cases for support and pitch materials, including engaging in depth with some of the complex research that we seek to fund.
- Represent the organisation externally — in meetings, networks and events.
Innovation, Growth and Sustainability
- Develop and test models to diversify income to enable impact – building on our current strategy, but bringing an open mind to exploring new activities.
- Embed fundraising monitoring, evaluation and performance reporting into the organisation; ensure transparency with senior leadership and trustees.
- Maintain close alignment between fundraising strategy and organisational strategy, ensuring funder relationships are ethical, values-aligned and sustainable.
About you:
We’re seeking someone who is ambitious, driven and emotionally intelligent — a relationship-builder ready to step into a senior leadership role and leave a legacy.
Essential
- A proven track record of securing significant income from trusts, foundations and/or corporate partners.
- Experience in managing complex relationships with funders, with excellent stewardship and retention skills.
- Experience of running reliable due diligence processes to assess funding opportunities.
- Able to translate research, policy or innovation-led programmes into compelling funding propositions.
- Excellent project management skills, including the capacity to coordinate colleagues in developing complex fundraising bids.
- Some experience of line management, team development or mentoring.
- Excellent written, verbal and influencing skills, able to engage funders, senior leaders and colleagues.
- Strategic mindset, with capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment.
- A genuine passion for the mission of the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, and the empathy to engage with lived experience perspectives.
- Alignment with our collaborative and flexible working culture — able to work in a high-trust environment, collaborate openly with colleagues across multiple teams and contribute positively to team wellbeing and culture.
Desirable
- Experience of major donor fundraising, or exploring new income streams.
- Experience of reporting to a board, including of producing high level board papers and working with high profile stakeholders.
- Knowledge or networks within the essential services, health, research, policy or grant-giving sectors.
Terms:
- Reporting to: Chief Executive
- Staff supervised: One team member, who we hope you will be able to be involved in recruiting
- Annual Gross Salary: £64,800 (employees who are not London-based receive the same salary, including London weighting, but cover their own travel costs to the office, typically twice a month)
- Location: Either London-based, with two days per week in Money and Mental Health’s East London office, or home-based with the ability to travel to London at least twice per month. The role will also require some travel for meetings.
- Hours: Both full-time and part-time applicants considered, at a minimum of four days per week. Job shares, consolidated hours and other flexible working arrangements will be considered. Please indicate your preferred working hours on application.
- Contract type: Permanent
- Holidays: 28 days per year (including 3 days between Christmas and New Year when the office is closed), plus bank holidays
- Pension: Opportunity to be enrolled in the workplace pension scheme (subject to meeting standard auto-enrolment qualifying criteria). After enrolment, the charity contributes the equivalent of 5.5% of monthly gross salary, subject to an employee contribution of at least 2.5%.
- Other benefits:
- Every team member has a personal training budget, with many internal training opportunities.
- Cycle to Work and season ticket loan schemes.
- Enhanced maternity/paternity/parental leave terms, offered at an equal rate: employees eligible for statutory maternity/paternity/shared parental pay receive 90% of earnings for up to 12 weeks.
- Rental deposit loan scheme.
- A flexible working culture: core working hours are 10am–3pm, with flexibility outside these times (agreed with management) for employees to distribute working hours across the week.
CamRARE is celebrating a decade of progress and impact and is seeking a dynamic Managing Director to lead our next chapter of growth.
As our Managing Director and founding member prepares for her planned retirement, Cambridge Rare Disease Network (CamRARE) is seeking a dynamic and visionary new leader to guide the charity into its next decade. You will drive strategic growth, strengthen partnerships, ensure long-term sustainability, and champion innovation, research, and community impact for people affected by rare and undiagnosed conditions.
You will inspire and empower a passionate and talented team of staff, trustees, volunteers, families and partners, while building strong connections across our networks to expand our reach, visibility, and influence. As an energetic and forward-thinking leader, you will bring the drive and expertise to strengthen partnerships, grow income through innovative fundraising and strategic collaborations, and champion CamRARE as a trusted voice within the rare community and beyond.
Why choose a career at Cambridge Rare Disease Network?
#purpose – We’re on a mission to make life with a rare condition easier through community, collaboration and connections. Your role is to lead this mission to directly contribute to a better future for those living with rare conditions.
#growth – We’re a small, ambitious team where you’ll have opportunities to shape and grow with us. You will use your experience and knowledge to make a measurable impact.
#diversity and inclusion– We value the diversity and unique insights each person brings. We actively welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences.
About Cambridge Rare Disease Network
There are over 10,000 rare conditions that affect 400 million people globally. Receiving a diagnosis can take years. Most rare diseases have no treatment. Coordination of care is often poor.
We’re on a mission to make life easier for those affected—uniting individuals, families, patient groups, researchers, industry, clinicians and policymakers to accelerate solutions and improve lives. Through knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and creativity, we aim to make the journey smoother for people living with rare and undiagnosed conditions and their families.
- CamRARE connects patients, advocates, research experts, and leaders—catalysing action to drive solutions and create lasting change
- Connects knowledge with lived experience to transform the journey toward better diagnosis, treatment, and support for individuals and their families
- Connects, educates, and supports the rare disease community - locally and globally - to improve outcomes and transform lives
Leading CamRARE
As Managing Director, you will provide strategic leadership for the charity, oversee governance and operations, develop and execute the strategy set by the Board of Trustees, and build key external partnerships. This role leads fundraising efforts and develops high-level external stakeholder relationships with Government bodies, including healthcare organisations/departments, Industry, patient and charity organisations, and Research Institutions involved in rare disease. This is a key role to build, strengthen and nurture the charity's connection with the rare disease community, empowering them and fostering an inclusive and supportive network.
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has a deep commitment to improving the lives of individuals and their families living with rare conditions.
- Has proven experience of 10+ years in a senior leadership role with a track record of delivering impact.
- Has experience in strategic planning, organisational development, and leading change.
- Brings creativity, adaptability and a “can-do” attitude.
- Has experience in income generation and managing stakeholder relationships.Has strong team management skills with a focus on development and building an inclusive workplace culture.
- Has experience in financial management and resource allocation.
- Has excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and inspire.
- Has sound knowledge of issues affecting the voluntary sector
- Enjoys working independently, hands-on as part of a team and effectively with remote teams
- Experience in and enjoys networking and partnership building, can communicate effectively with a broad range of people
- Experienced in business delivery aligned to financial targets, core objectives and strategy implementation
- Has experience leading events and campaigns
Making life with a rare condition easier — through connection, collaboration, and community



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Job Title: Executive Assistant to DCEO
Reports To: Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Location: Nottingham
Contract Type: Fixed term
Salary: £32,000 to £34,000
Job Purpose
The Executive Assistant will provide operational, strategic and analytical support to the DCEO. This role goes beyond traditional executive assistance and will involve planning, research, project coordination and organisational reporting. The post holder will play a key role in preparing executive insights, analysing departmental reports, and ensuring effective follow-up on strategic priorities. This role requires strong analytical thinking, communication skills and high proficiency in digital tools and technology.
Key Responsibilities
Executive Support
- Manage the DCEO’s calendar, schedule and priority workflow to ensure effective time management
- Coordinate internal and external meetings, prepare agendas and produce accurate minutes and action trackers
- Draft and manage professional correspondence on behalf of the DCEO
- Prepare briefing notes for senior meetings, visits and events
- Organise travel arrangements, itineraries and supporting documentation when required
Strategic Analysis and Insight
- Analyse reports from SMT meetings and departments to produce executive summaries and insights
- Support strategic planning
- Develop briefing papers and analysis to support decision making
Research and Reporting
- Conduct research on sector trends, funding models, charity regulations and strategic opportunities
- Produce clear reports and presentations to support board and SMT meetings
Project Coordination
- Follow up on actions from DCEO and SMT meetings to ensure timely delivery
- Coordinate departmental plans and track progress against milestones
Technology and Digital Support
- Use Microsoft 365 and other AI tools for reporting, planning and communication
- Maintain structured digital documentation and record keeping
- Introduce automation or digital improvements to enhance productivity in the DCEO’s office
Qualifications and Experience
Essential
- Right to Work in the UK
- DBS Certificate
- Degree level or equivalent preferred in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) subjects.
- The candidate must have a minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar role as a Personal Assistant or Executive Assistant, ideally supporting senior management.
- Strong analytical skills with experience in preparing professional reports and executive briefings.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to research, interpret and present information clearly and concisely
- High level of IT competence
- Strong planning and organisational skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and meet tight deadlines.
Note: Strong Applicants may be contacted sooner, ahead of the closing date, to hold Skype Interview with Muslim Hands; therefore, please familiarise yourself with MS Teams and Zoom in advance.
We reserve the right to cease advertising and close the Vacancy without notice should suitable candidates be identified ahead of the published 'Application Closing Date'.
Application Process & Closing Date:
Send an up to date CV and supporting Covering Letter by Email by no later than 30 NOV 2025
Approx. Interview & Role Commencement Date(s):
Interviews: As and when suitable applicants are identified
Start: As Agreed as soon as possible thereafter
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About us
Practical Action is a change making organisation that works in unconventional ways. We put ingenious ideas to work so people in poverty can change their world.
We do things differently, so answers that start small can grow big – bringing people together in bold collaborations, using innovation and knowledge to build futures free from poverty and help shape a world that works better for everyone.
About the role
We are looking for an excellent and experienced relationship fundraiser, who excels at identifying and building inspiring and genuine connections with high net-worth individual donors, who have the capacity to give six- and seven- figure gifts.
This role requires a motivated, creative and confident individual, who thrives on getting out and about and meeting with supporters. The role will help shape the Business Development and Philanthropy Team’s plans to deliver outstanding donor engagement and stewardship so that our donors are inspired and proud to support us and enjoy their philanthropic giving experience. This role will make a vital contribution to delivering a step change in our philanthropic income growth to support Practical Action’s strategic ambition and mission.
About you
We are seeking a motivated, creative and confident individual, who thrives on getting out and about and meeting with supporters. You will have at least 5 years’ experience of securing gifts from high net-worth individuals making gifts privately or through family trusts, donor advised funds and corporations.
Accountabilities
Lead the process of identifying and cultivating individual donor prospects (UK and international) capable of giving six- and seven- figure gifts, fully understanding their funding preferences, criteria and fit with Practical Action.
Steward a portfolio of loyal and high-quality donors, giving five and six figure annual gifts and ensure our donors receive exceptional stewardship, feel valued for their support and become advocates of Practical Action to their friends, family and networks.
Work with autonomy and represent Practical Action at one-to-one meetings and networking events with high net-worth individuals.
Work with senior colleagues and the Board of Trustees to identify prospects, build relationships and secure gifts from high net-worth individuals.
Distil complex information and messaging into powerful, emotive and high-quality tailored communications (including pitches, cases for support, bespoke proposals and donor reports) that demonstrate impact and inspire giving by individual donors and family trusts.
Person Specification
To be successful in the role, the ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate:
Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience:
Significant fundraising experience (5 years+) of securing gifts from high net-worth individuals making gifts privately, or through family trusts, donor advised funds and corporations.
Excellent knowledge about philanthropy sector developments, trends and key philanthropic organisations and networks in the UK and internationally.
A strong and proven track record of building new prospect pipelines and of managing a portfolio of donors, including demonstrable experience of securing six- and seven-figure gifts.
An experienced and confident networker with a proven ability to build and maintain a diverse group of contacts, at all levels, both internally and externally, and represent Practical Action to inspire, secure commitment and support.
Knowledge of data protection principles, legal requirements, and ethical fundraising practice is essential.
Skills, Abilities and Competencies:
Excellent verbal and written communication skills including the ability to summarise and distil complex issues in an inspiring way.
Ability and confidence to influence and manage successful internal relationships including writing reports and donor meeting briefings for senior colleagues.
Ability to manage multiple priorities within a fast-paced environment, ensuring our donors receive excellent stewardship throughout their relationship with Practical Action.
Strong project management skills to lead approaches backed up by an appropriate level of research and analysis.
Enthusiasm and willingness to trial, learn and adapt — whether building on existing major giving experience or trialling new ideas and approaches to reach new donors audiences, for example next generation or diaspora giving.
You will contribute to a culture of kindness, collaboration, rigour and accountability.
Effective and positive team-player with a strong preference for collaboration
Strong administrative, time-management, IT and numeracy skills.
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Why join us?
The opportunity to work for an organisation that is making a positive difference to the lives of people worldwide, a friendly and supportive culture, and working with values-driven and highly engaged colleagues are just some of the reasons we think Practical Action is a great place to work.
This role will be based in the UK.
The successful applicant must have the pre-existing right to both live and work in the UK. The successful candidate will be expected to attend the Rugby office on regular occasions.
Additional information
Practical Action believes that having a diverse workforce and inclusive workplace culture based on respect will enable us to be an effective organisation. We seek to create an inclusive workplace in which people are accepted as individuals, regardless of their differences and where they feel their contribution is valued. Practical Action is an equal opportunities employer, and we encourage applications from under-represented groups.
We stay committed to cultivating an inclusive and diverse working environment and believe that people from different backgrounds or cultures give us different perspectives, and the more perspectives we have, the more successful we will be. By building a culture where everyone feels heard, respected, and valued we give everyone working with us the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
Practical Action is committed to safeguarding and protecting children and vulnerable adults and as such candidates will be subject to pre-employment checks including criminal checks and terrorist financing.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 7th December 2025. Please note that should we recruit a suitable candidate before the closing date, we will close applications earlier than the specified date.
Interviews:
It is anticipated that first round online interviews will take place Thursday 11 December 2025 and Monday 15 December 2025.
Final interviews will take place in person at our Rugby office week commencing 5th January 2026.
If you do not hear from us within five weeks of the closing date, please assume your application has not been successful on this occasion.
HOW TO APPLY
If you want to work for a charity with significant people ambitions, then we would like to hear from you. For more information, please visit our careers page. To apply please submit a copy of your CV (A MAXIMIUM OF 2 PAGES) and send us a supporting statement that includes the answers to the following questions:
1. Why do you consider yourself a good candidate for the Philanthropy Executive role at Practical Action?
2. Why is philanthropy important for tackling poverty and climate change?
Our vision is for a world that works better for everyone. We believe where there’s action, there’s hope.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Community Fundraiser - Home Counties
Are you ready to take on a new challenge with a leading charity making a real difference in brain tumour research?
Brain Tumour Research is seeking an experienced and motivated fundraiser to join our team. As a key part of our fundraising efforts in our high-performing East region, you will have the opportunity to drive income generation through a variety of initiatives, including challenge events, fundraising groups, and corporate partnerships such as charity of the year. You will also be responsible for driving initiatives to increase our profile and supporter base within Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Northamptonshire and Essex.
Key Responsibilities:
- Generate income across a range of community fundraising initiatives and events, with the opportunity to lead on key projects
- Steward supporters to help drive the charity’s fundraising activities and growth
- Work with the fundraising team to develop and maintain strong relationships with fundraisers, donors, partners, and key stakeholders
- Contribute towards the growth and success of fundraising efforts, ensuring a sustainable income stream for the vital ongoing funding of brain tumour research
Requirements:
- At least one year of fundraising experience, with a proven track record in income generation
- Strong experience in supporter stewardship
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire supporters and partners alike
- Passion for Brain Tumour Research and its mission to fund research and ultimately find a cure
If you are looking for a fulfilling and impactful role and have the level of experience and skill we are looking for, we welcome your application.
We will give preference to those candidates living in the Bucks, Beds and Northants areas of this region.
We reserve the right to close the application window early and advise candidates to apply in good time to avoid disappointment.
We are asking for a CV as the first step but applicants may be asked to provide a targeted covering letter as part of the selection process. Interviews will be conducted during the application window as appropriate, and will consist of a first interview via MS Teams, progressing, if successful to a face to face second interview, held at our offices in Milton Keynes.
Closing Date: 14th December 2025
We are looking for people who share our passion for finding a cure for brain tumours and who have the skills and experience to make a difference. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, cultures, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and ages. We believe that diversity enriches our organisation and helps us achieve our mission. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can be themselves and contribute to our vision.
To find a cure for all types of brain tumours To increase the UK investment in brain tumour research
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Anaphylaxis UK is seeking our next Chief Executive Officer. This is an opportunity to lead the UK’s only charity dedicated solely to people at risk of anaphylaxis, taking forward its mission at an exciting moment of development and growth.
About Us
Anaphylaxis UK is the UK’s leading charity supporting individuals, families and carers living with serious allergies and anaphylaxis. For over 30 years we have provided evidence-based information, training and advocacy to improve safety, inclusion and quality of life for people at risk of severe allergic reactions. Our services include a dedicated helpline, the AllergyWise® training portfolio (including the Safer Schools Programme), accredited factsheets, an expanding digital offer and partnerships with healthcare, research and industry partners. We champion research, influence policy and work directly with schools, businesses and healthcare settings to reduce risk and anxiety for people with allergies.
The Role
As Chief Executive Officer you will be the senior officer responsible for the strategic leadership, operational management, financial stewardship and external representation of Anaphylaxis UK. You will lead delivery of the charity’s strategic ambitions, grow and diversify income, and work collaboratively with a committed small staff team and an active Board of Trustees.
Key responsibilities
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Lead strategy delivery, balancing service quality and financial sustainability.
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Oversee governance, reporting, budgeting, risk and regulatory compliance.
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Grow and diversify income to strengthen financial resilience.
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Provide ethical leadership, manage senior staff and build an inclusive culture.
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Develop strategic partnerships and act as public representative.
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Deliver high-quality services and drive digital innovation.
Key details
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Job title: Chief Executive Officer
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Salary: £70,000–£75,000 per annum
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Contract: Permanent, full-time (35 hours per week)
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Location: Hybrid - home based with regular in-person staff and Board meetings (including an average of one weekly meeting with third-party agents in central London); travel across the UK as required.
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Hours / working pattern: Hybrid working with regular face-to-face commitments and attendance at relevant UK conferences.
As our next CEO, you will demonstrate:
Essential
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Minimum five years’ executive (CEO-level or equivalent) leadership with proven strategic and change delivery.
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Strong business development track record, including diversifying income (fundraising, commercial, grants/partnerships).
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Solid financial competence: budgeting, control, reporting and financial stewardship.
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Experience working with boards, good corporate governance and risk management.
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Proven ability to deliver and improve high-quality services.
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Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing across government, health, research and industry.
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Collaborative, emotionally intelligent leader who builds trust with staff, trustees and partners.
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Willingness to travel sustainably as required.
Desirable
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Knowledge of allergy, health or education sectors, or experience in health-related charities.
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Experience developing digital services and improving accessibility of information.
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Experience with corporate partnerships, schools or training delivery.
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Degree or relevant professional qualification.
Please download the appointment brief for full details, including how to apply,
If you would like an informal conversation about this position, please contact in confidence our consultant, Jenny Hills, at Harris Hill via the apply button with suitable times to speak, and optional but appreciated, a CV or professional profile.
Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 8th December
As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.
Location: London, UK (Hybrid working available)
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Salary: £38,000 - £42,000 (dependent on experience)
About the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF)
The Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) works internationally to protect the natural world and defend the human rights of those who depend on it. We use powerful films, campaigns, and investigations to expose abuses and drive systemic change, from illegal fishing and deforestation to climate breakdown and threats to environmental defenders.
We believe in equity, transparency, and justice - empowering communities on the frontlines of environmental crises and amplifying their voices to secure lasting change.
The Role
EJF is seeking a Research and Advocacy Officer to play a central role in EJFs growing team advancing our campaigns on Deep Sea Mining (DSM) and on key areas of our Oceans policy work, especially as it relates to Climate. The postholder will conduct high-quality research, contribute to policy development, and directly engage in advocacy to influence decision-makers, industry actors, and international institutions.
This is a unique opportunity for an early-to-mid-career professional passionate about ocean conservation, climate governance, and environmental justice to contribute to urgent global debates at the intersection of science, policy, and human rights.
Key Responsibilities:
Research and Analysis
- Conduct rigorous desk-based research on deep sea mining, and developments in related governance frameworks.
- Analyse the social, environmental, and geopolitical implications of emerging ocean and climate technologies, specifically including mCDR
- Produce advocacy reports, briefings, and policy analyses to inform EJF’s advocacy and communications.
- Monitor developments across international fora and within international specific MEAs (e.g., ISA, UNFCCC, CBD) and scientific literature.
- Provide detailed briefings for leadership including the CEO on emerging science, policy and activities across the portfolio.
Advocacy and Policy Engagement
- Support EJF’s advocacy strategy to influence national, regional, and international policy processes on DSM and mCDR.
- Draft policy recommendations, position statements, and submissions to governments, intergovernmental organisations, and industry bodies.
- When requested represent EJF in meetings, conferences, and coalitions, effectively communicating EJF’s positions and priorities.
Communications and Outreach
- Contribute to the development of compelling written and visual content (blogs, op-eds, briefings) to amplify campaign messages.
- Support public engagement and media outreach in collaboration with EJF’s communications team.
- Assist in preparing campaign materials and presentations for donors, partners, and public audiences.
Collaboration and Support
- Work closely with EJFs global team of researchers, campaigners, and filmmakers to integrate findings into multimedia advocacy outputs.
- Engage with external partners, academic experts, and civil society networks.
- Contribute to funding proposals and donor reporting as required.
Essential Requirements
- A degree (Master’s preferred) in environmental policy, marine science, international relations, or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience in research and policy analysis within environmental, ocean, or climate issues.
- Strong understanding of international environmental governance, particularly relating to ocean protection, climate policy, or emerging marine technologies.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality materials for both expert and general audiences.
- Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
- A demonstrable commitment to environmental justice
- A clear understanding of and strong commitment to EJF’s mission of environmental protection and social justice.
Desirable
- Knowledge of the International Seabed Authority, UNFCCC ocean agenda, or relevant EU/UK policy frameworks.
- Experience in advocacy or campaigning within NGOs, think tanks, or intergovernmental bodies.
- Experience analysing scientific or technical data and translating it into policy-relevant insights.
- Fluency in another language (especially French, Spanish, Mandarin) would be an advantage.
What We Offer
- The opportunity to work at the intersection of environmental protection, human rights, and international policy.
- A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment.
- Professional development opportunities and exposure to high-level advocacy arenas.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a cover letter (maximum two pages) explaining your interest and suitability for the role to the email address provided with the subject line: Research and Advocacy Officer - Climate and Oceans.
Please let us know how you heard about the position at the end of your application.
Application deadline: December 10, 2025
Candidates must have the legal right to live and work in the UK.
EJF is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.We strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented backgrounds in the environmental sector to apply. If you believe you would be a good fit for this role but are unsure whether you meet every requirement, we warmly encourage you to apply.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.
Senior Research and Development Manager - Research and Evidence
Contract: Fixed term for 24 months (with potential to extend/make perm subject to funding)
Hours: Full Time 35 hours / 1.0 FTE (open to part-time 0.8 FTE)
Salary: £51,349 per annum or £55,512 per annum if based in London
Location: London Fields / Belfast, Northern Ireland / Newton Abbot, Devon / Sheffield / Homebased within the UK (with travel to the office when required)
NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working and ask that office-based staff attend the office for a minimum of 2 days per week.
About the Role
The Senior Research and Development Manager will play an important role in managing NCB’s research and evidence work, supporting our impact and growth and working across teams in a matrix environment. The post holder will be joining the research team at an exciting time, with significant growth in recent years, particularly in the area of evidence synthesis methodologies.
This role requires a strong background in managing and delivering evidence synthesis research projects, including systematic reviews, meta-analysis, qualitative synthesis, and mixed-methods approaches. It involves overseeing key research contracts, providing hands-on project management, ensuring methodological rigour, and delivering high-quality outputs.
The research team at NCB works on several influential projects using a range of research methods and spanning areas including youth justice, social care, early childhood development and education.
About Us
For more than 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been making a big difference to lives of children and young people across the country, particularly the most disadvantaged. We are proud of having been instrumental in delivering major government reforms such as the changes to special educational need provision in schools, the extension of high quality early years provision and support to allow children to remain in foster care beyond their 18th birthday.
Today NCB works across a range of important issues affecting the lives of millions of children. Our priority areas are currently focused on early years, special education needs and disability, health and social care and education and learning. We are a dynamic and multifaceted organisation at an exciting stage in our development – a review of our purpose around a virtuous cycle of evidence gathering, research, influencing and practice improvement.
The Benefits
- 30 Days Annual Leave
- Generous Pension Scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Flexible Working
- Winter Holiday Closure & Break
- Employee Assistance Programme
Timetable for Appointment:
Applications close at 08:00am on Friday 28th November 2025.
Assessments and interviews will take place on Tuesday 9th December (pm) or Wednesday 10th December (am/pm) 2025.
Interviews will be conducted online via Microsoft Teams.
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible
Interested?
If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.
We are actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.
NCB is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, political opinion, marital status, pregnancy and maternity, paternity, and carer status.
No agencies please.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Community Fundraiser - London
Are you ready to take on a new challenge with a leading charity making a real difference in brain tumour research?
Brain Tumour Research is seeking an experienced and motivated fundraiser to join our team. As a key part of our fundraising efforts in our high-performing East region, you will have the opportunity to drive income generation through a variety of initiatives, including challenge events, fundraising groups, and corporate partnerships such as charity of the year. You will also be responsible for driving initiatives to increase our profile and supporter base within London.
Key Responsibilities:
- Generate income across a range of community fundraising initiatives and events, with the opportunity to lead on key projects
- Steward supporters to help drive the charity’s fundraising activities and growth
- Work with the fundraising team to develop and maintain strong relationships with fundraisers, donors, partners, and key stakeholders
- Contribute towards the growth and success of fundraising efforts, ensuring a sustainable income stream for the vital ongoing funding of brain tumour research
Requirements:
- At least one year of fundraising experience, with a proven track record in income generation
- Strong experience in supporter stewardship
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage and inspire supporters and partners alike
- Passion for Brain Tumour Research and its mission to fund research and ultimately find a cure
If you are looking for a fulfilling and impactful role and have the level of experience and skill we are looking for, we welcome your application.
For this role, the successful candidate must live in the London area.
We reserve the right to close the application window early and advise candidates to apply in good time to avoid disappointment.
We are asking for a CV as the first step but applicants may be asked to provide a targeted covering letter as part of the selection process. Interviews will be conducted during the application window as appropriate, and will consist of a first interview via MS Teams, progressing, if successful to a face to face second interview, held at our offices in Milton Keynes.
Closing Date: 28th November 2025
We are looking for people who share our passion for finding a cure for brain tumours and who have the skills and experience to make a difference. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, cultures, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and ages. We believe that diversity enriches our organisation and helps us achieve our mission. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can be themselves and contribute to our vision.
To find a cure for all types of brain tumours To increase the UK investment in brain tumour research
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
This is a new and exciting role which you can out your stamp on. You'll help the charity run smoothly, support our Board of Trustees, coordinate meetings, manage key communications, provide day-to-day office management and ensure that strategic projects are delivered effectively. This is a great opportunity for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and wants to make a real difference through their work. In particular you'll:
- support our CEO with diary management, responding to incoming communications, preperation for events and managing managings
- manage payroll for both the charity and its trading subsidiary, Ignition Brewery
- provide administrative support to our Finance Manager
- coordinate our parent-carer forum, ensuring it is well supported
- support our Board of Trustees including coordinating all aspects of Board and Committee meetings, taking minutes and supporting with Trustee recruitment
- act as our Office Manager, overseeing the various administrative functions and support contracts we need to run smoothly
- assist with the implementation and management of projects across the Charity that support our mission and drive efficiency
As well as our Brighter Horizons team, you’ll also have a hand in supporting our trading subsidiary Ignition Brewery, making this a varied role, ideal for someone who likes to be involved in lots of things at the same time.
We’re a small team but growing and ambitious team, making the role really varied. Experience of administration is a must, preferably in a small charity setting. If you are a people person and are passionate about causes in your community, we want to hear from you.
What we need from you (the essentials):
- a minimum of one years’ experience working in a fast-paced administrative environment
- experience of managing projects from design through to delivery and evaluation
- strong organisational and time management skills with an ability to plan ahead and manage multiple priorities effectively
- excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- excellent skills in Microsoft Office and CRM systems, especially with digital collaboration tools
- good written skills, with an ability to produce reports and other relevant documentation
- an ability to maintain discretion & confidentiality and handle sensitive information with professionalism
- meticulous attention to detail with an ability to perform tasks accurately and efficiently
- the ability to work proactively and independently
What we’d also like from you (the desirables):
- previous experience of working as an Executive or Personal Assistant
- an understanding of charity governance / experience working with Trustee Boards
- experience of working with neurodivergent adults and/or adults with learning disabilities in a paid or voluntary capacity
Our mission is to enable people with learning disabilities to live independently, to find belonging and to be active members of their community.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Martingale Postgraduate Foundation (Martingale) exists to fund and support the next generation of talented researchers. We believe that family income should not be a barrier to the pursuit of excellence, and our mission is to enable and nurture talented individuals from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to thrive within world-leading postgraduate research.
Martingale’s flagship programme is the Martingale Postgraduate Scholarship, which supports students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to pursue and excel in postgraduate degrees, by providing:
- A fully-funded Living Wage Scholarship to pursue a one-year Masters degree or a four-year PhD.
- All tuition fees and research expenses, including a tax-free stipend for living costs.
- Tailored support to apply for Martingale courses at our partner universities.
- Access to Martingale programmes, including leadership training and connections with top academic and industry professionals.
- Membership of a pioneering community of talented researchers.
In the three years since Martingale launched, we are now supporting over 100 Scholars to undertake postgraduate degrees across our ten partner universities and have committed over £7.7m in Scholarships. We are continuing to expand our offer, bringing on new partners each year.
We are seeking an experienced, strategic and collaborative Head of Communications and External Engagement to join our Senior Leadership Team and play a pivotal role in shaping Martingale’s external profile, strategic partnerships, and policy influence.
As Head of Communications and External Engagement, you will join our growing senior management team, overseeing several critical aspects of Martingale’s work: communications and recruitment; partnerships and fundraising; and policy and advocacy. Working closely with the CEO, you will oversee all aspect of Martingale’s external communications and engagement to ensure Martingale’s success.
You will set the strategic direction of Martingale’s external positioning, working closely with the CEO on a day-to-day basis to ensure that our communications, partnerships and policy activity is aligned and meeting Martingale’s mission. You will ensure that Martingale’s messaging is consistent, with a bold brand presence and strong collaboration with various external stakeholders including funders, universities, media, and government.
We are looking for a strong communicator with extensive leadership experience including line management, partnership management and external relations. You will bring excellent organisational skills, strong attention to detail, a proactive mindset, and a strong alignment with Martingale’s mission. We welcome applicants from a range of career paths who are excited to be part of a growing, fast-paced charity delivering meaningful impact.
Martingale Foundation is incubated by Purposeful Ventures who provide operational and strategic support. The Head of Communications and External Engagement will be employed by Purposeful Ventures.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and deliver a clear, bold strategy for communications, policy, and partnerships aligned with Martingale’s vision and growth.
- Lead the development of Martingale’s voice, ensuring consistency across all external channels and stakeholder interactions.
- Act as a senior leader within the organisation, contributing to overall strategic planning.
Communications & Brand
- Oversee all external communications, campaigns and media engagement, strengthening Martingale’s profile and influence.
- Manage content strategy, digital channels, storytelling and brand evolution.
- Ensure high-quality and accessible communications across print, digital, and in-person events.
Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
- Maintain and grow relationships with Martingale’s university, philanthropic, and other partners.
- Collaborate with the CEO on fundraising engagement strategies and impact storytelling.
- Oversee ambassador engagement and support Martingale’s national and regional events.
Policy & Advocacy
- Lead Martingale’s policy and advocacy work to shape the future of postgraduate access and equity.
- Along with the CEO, represent Martingale in external forums, responding to consultations and influencing key stakeholders in research and education policy.
- Collaborate with researchers and partners to generate evidence and drive systems change.
Team Leadership & Management
- Line manage team leads across communications and partnerships, with oversight of a team of four.
- Support the professional development of the team, ensuring alignment with Martingale’s values and goals.
- Foster a collaborative, agile, and inclusive culture within and across teams.
- The post holder will carry out any other duties as are within the scope, spirit, and purpose of the role as requested by the line manager.
Key Requirements:
Essential Criteria
- Right to work in the UK
Experience and skills
Essential
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences including senior stakeholders.
- Significant senior-level experience in communications, policy, or external relations within a mission-driven organisation.
- Proven experience line managing a multi-person team, including managing people who manage others.
- Strong track record of developing and delivering high-impact external engagement strategies.
- Excellent communication skills — strategic thinking combined with hands-on content expertise.
- Experience managing and cultivating high-value partnerships or donor relationships.
- Understanding of UK education, social mobility, or research funding landscapes.
- Proven experience in account management, managing multiple external stakeholder relationships and partnerships successfully.
- Advanced IT proficiency: Spreadsheet, Word Processing, CRM or Databases, Email, Web-based applications.
Desirable
- Experience working with or within higher education or research organisations.
- Familiarity with charity fundraising or philanthropic communications.
- Experience delivering communications in a startup or scale-up environment.
- Experience in working with governance boards and/or trustees.
- Experience delivering / overseeing ambitious recruitment campaigns.
Personal Characteristics
- Excellent interpersonal skills: able to build rapport and trusting relationships, able to work co-operatively in a multidisciplinary setting.
- A commitment to Martingale’s mission to support postgraduate students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Comfortable working in a rapidly growing and changing organisation with a degree of ambiguity – confident to create processes and ways forward where they might not yet exist.
- Creative and innovative: willing to think outside the box to maximise reach.
- Resourceful, able to act on initiative, hardworking, detail-oriented, and systematic.
Benefits:
- 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising to 29 days after two years of service and to 30 days after three years of service. This entitlement is pro rata for part-time employees. This entitlement excludes bank holidays.
- Full office closure between Christmas and New Year.
- A flexible approach to working with understanding and consideration for work-life balance and personal commitments.
- As a Purposeful Ventures employee, you will have the opportunity to be part of the TPT (The Pension Trust) scheme, our workplace pension scheme, where we make an 11% contribution; you are not required to contribute towards this scheme unless you choose to.
- Access to Charlie Perks, offering discounts and rewards at over 30,000 brands and retailers.
Our mission is to enable and nurture talented individuals from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to become a new generation of STEM leaders.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you an inspiring leader with a passion for improving the lives of women and families in the perinatal period?
Are you ready to lead the next phase of growth and development of our established Perinatal Mental Health Support charity as Chief Executive?
About Light Peer Support
Light is a perinatal mental health support charity, set up in 2010, which has grown to support parents and their families across South Yorkshire through the provision of peer support and counselling. We’re led by our passion to support mental health during pregnancy and beyond for all families from all communities.
From our hub in Sheffield as well as in Family Hubs across Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster and Barnsley, we work with families who are experiencing emotional and mental health difficulties in the perinatal period, working in partnership across the statutory and voluntary sector to raise awareness of perinatal mental health difficulties and the support available.
We’re committed to providing services that embrace diversity to support equity in service access and promote equality of opportunity.
The role
Following the planned retirement of our current Chief Executive, we are seeking an exceptional leader to guide our grassroots charity through its next phase of growth and development. As our new Chief Executive, you will work closely with the Board of Trustees to build on a strong foundation of trusted services and demonstrable outcomes. You will provide inspiring strategic, financial, and operational leadership to ensure our services remain sustainable, evidence-based, trauma-informed, and responsive to the needs of parents and families from all communities.
We’re looking for a compassionate, visionary leader with proven senior-level experience who can balance day-to-day operational oversight with stakeholder engagement and longer-term strategic thinking.
This is a pivotal moment for our organisation. You will lead us into an exciting new chapter — strengthening partnerships, creating new collaborations, expanding our reach, diversifying income, and driving innovation in how we support families. As our lead ambassador, you’ll champion lived experience and the value of co-production, raise awareness of perinatal mental health challenges, and influence change locally and nationally to improve the experiences of families at a crucial time in their lives.
We looking to you to bring the following skills and experience:
Senior operational and strategic leadership with at least 3 years’ experience, including successful delivery of public or private sector contracts.
Service growth and development experience, including leading organisational expansion and managing performance, contracts, tenders, and funding or grant applications.
Financial and governance expertise, including budget management, financial oversight, reporting to governing boards, and strong knowledge of governance, compliance, safeguarding, and GDPR.
People leadership, with a track record of managing staff, building high-performing teams, and increasing volunteer involvement.
Stakeholder engagement and networking skills to advance awareness and investment in our mission.
Sector knowledge, including understanding of maternity, mental health and children’s services, and the challenges faced by women and families in the perinatal period, along with the value of timely intervention.
Equality at Light
We believe that every parent deserves understanding, compassion, and the right support at the right time and in the right place.
We’re proud to be a welcoming, inclusive charity, and we want our team to reflect the diverse communities we serve. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and life experiences, especially those with lived experience of perinatal mental health challenges. We're aiming for a workforce that is truly representative of the communities we serve.
We're a family friendly employer and open to discussion on flexible working subject to service needs.
If you’re an inspiring leader who shares our passion for supporting parents and families — and you’re ready to build on a proud 15-year legacy and shape the future of perinatal mental health support — we’d love to hear from you.
Please note full-time working is 35 hours/week
Closing date 23:59 Monday 1st December 2025
Light is a peer support charity that offers emotional support to families during the perinatal period.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.


