Research lead jobs

Role summary 

Join the leading UK charity dedicated to supporting babies born premature, to lead a new programme of work in Wales. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive programme lead or project manager to lead engagement with healthcare teams and parents/carers across Wales to improve care for babies across 9 neonatal units, focussing especially on babies who face the biggest challenges.

Every year in Wales, around 2800 babies are born premature or sick and needing care on a neonatal unit – this isn’t what most parents expect for their baby. Many of these babies, and their families, will face inequalities which relate to their ethnicity, or their socio-economic disadvantage.

Bliss is the UK’s leading national charity for babies born premature or sick, and we are looking for someone with the skills for engagement and project management to join team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to help lead an exciting new programme of work, to understand the needs of parents and healthcare teams across Wales, to increase reach and impact in the country.
 

• Location: Based in Wales and able to travel to 9 neonatal units across the country. We expect at least 1-2 visits to each unit in the fixed term of the contract

• Salary: £36,850 FTE

• Terms: 28 hours per week. Fixed term to end of March 2026

The role is funded by the Welsh Government.

Role details

TBliss has recently been awarded a one-year grant from the Welsh Government to deliver a programme of work to support and drive neonatal service transformation across the country. In line with Bliss new 4-year strategy, this programme will work with neonatal healthcare professionals across the 9 neonatal units in Wales, support families whose babies need this vital care, and include research and policy work to improve care across the country.

The programme lead will coordinate the work of this programme, which will be managed by teams across Bliss, and lead on the engagement of parents and healthcare teams across Wales. During the 12 months of the funding agreement, to the end of September 2026, the programme will:
•Raise awareness of and access to Bliss’ information and support for parents
•Support all neonatal units to progress through Bliss’ Baby Charter standards
•Undertake service-user involvement work to inform the development of a new digital parent support service
•Undertake engagement work with health professionals to inform training and the development of resources to support the delivery of Family Integrated Care (FICare)
•Carry out a policy research project on neonatal inequalities.

The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate the following skills and experience:

•Proven ability to build effective internal and external relationships with a range of stakeholders
•Strong experience of project management, able to juggle multiple priorities and coordinate with others to deliver activities on time and to budget
•Self-motivated and solutions-focused, able to work on own initiative to get things done
•Demonstrable understanding of how to involve service users in the development, delivery and evaluation of services
•Strong understanding of equity, diversity and inclusion, and of inequalities related to healthcare, and how to tackle these.

Knowledge of Welsh healthcare systems in general, and maternity/neonatal services in particular would be a distinct advantage
 

For more details please view the job description and person specification attached to this advert.  

Don’t meet every single requirement?

Studies have shown that women and people of colour are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Bliss we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role, but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every aspect of the job description, we encourage you to apply to tell us what you can offer our organisation. You could be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

How to apply

Interested applicants are requested to submit the following documents

•Your CV (please ensure this does not include your age, gender or any other personal characteristics) 
•Supporting statement explaining how you meet the criteria in the person specification. This should address the essential points of the person specification and is expected to be no more than 1000-1500 words long 
 

This information is used when shortlisting candidates for interview. 

It is Bliss’ policy not to contact applicants who have not been invited for an interview so if you have not heard from us three weeks after the closing deadline, you should assume that your application has been unsuccessful.

Recruitment Timeline 

• The deadline for applications is 9am on Monday 8th September.
• First interviews will take place on the 12th September online.
• Second interviews will take place on the 22nd September in Cardiff

The Network Lead plays a central role in helping us achieve our vision to end the need for food banks in the UK. This is a varied, proactive and fast-paced role leading work to support our food banks to deliver a warm welcome, emergency food, and access to tailored support and advice for people experiencing poverty in communities across Northern Ireland, while we work together for long-term structural changes to tackle drivers of food bank need.

The role involves line management of Area Managers working directly with Food Banks, and the coordination of projects and partnerships to support food banks in our network to reduce the need for their services locally.

You will need to live in Northern Ireland or be planning to relocate as the role involves regular travel to visit our Northern Ireland food banks.

Role responsibilities

· Food Bank Support: Manage the delivery of support to food banks in Northern Ireland ensuring our community of food banks remain resilient and can provide a compassionate service to people in need of emergency food for as long as services are needed.  

· Strategic Leadership: Coordinate the delivery of strategic programmes of work that are part of Trusell’s five-year strategy to end the need for food banks, including through developing and delivering Northern Ireland specific priorities.

· Projects and partnerships: Build partnerships with organisations to develop and build services and systems that help end the need for food banks in Northern Ireland, including with national government, elected representatives, churches, community organisations and research bodies.

· Team Leadership: Provide leadership, support, coaching, development, and line management to the area managers.

· Risk Management: Ensure consistent quality assurance of food banks across Northern Ireland, in line with the risk framework and support area managers to deal with complaints and manage food banks with high risks.

· Cross-organisational working: Act as a liaison between the area team, other teams within the Food Bank Resilience Programme, and other Programme colleagues, managing the flow of ideas and feedback to positive effect. 

Person Specification

Technical skills and minimum knowledge:

· Confidence in representing Trussell with a range of stakeholders, including community and church leaders, civil servants and elected representatives, to enable the effective roll-out of the organisational strategy in Northern Ireland.

· Knowledge and experience of community development or local service provision and a good understanding of local systems of support relied upon by people experiencing poverty.

· Experience of managing projects and partnerships, from inception to evaluation, to achieve strategic goals.

· Experience of team leadership including line management and supervision, including dealing with performance issues and using coaching skills.

· Competent and efficient use of IT, including the main Microsoft Office programmes and database management.

Behaviours and competencies:

· Demonstrates a commitment to Trussell values and our vision and mission

· Demonstrates empathy for people from disadvantaged, marginalised or socially- excluded backgrounds 

· Role models inclusive behaviour, values and leadership

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, particularly listening skills.

· Confident, resilient and self-motivated team player

· Well-organised and able to juggle competing priorities.

· The ability to build effective relationships in contexts where Christian faith plays a major part, and in which people of all faiths and none collaborate to make a difference together.

Our vision is a society free from systemic inequity, shaped by those most affected by injustice. 

We are a Blackpool-based community co-research hub for people who have faced different forms of adversity, including experiences of injustice, prejudice, inequality and discrimination. Together, we seek to address the root causes of inequalities and social injustices through:

Participatory research: an unwavering commitment to modelling and promoting high quality, ethical co-production of research as and alongside community members.

Support for lived experience experts: holistically facilitating lived experience experts to lead and partner in transformative social research and action, including the support systems required to underpin safe and effective engagement.

Convening spaces: acting as the conduit between allies such as universities, local authorities and community organisations to work together as equals on issues we care about.

Systems change action: ensuring co-research and participatory activity includes action towards evidence-based changes to the inequitable systems that impact us.

We are key partners in major multi-year participatory research projects, including Blackpool's Health Determinants Research Collaboration (funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research), and the Coastal Community and Creative Health project (funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council). 

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a nimble, innovative and uniquely positioned organisation, setting the agenda in the world of co-research. As a collective, we have identified our strategic priorities for the next three years and we are looking for someone to spearhead these developments, maximise opportunities for the Foundation and drive income generation to support them.

More information about who we are looking for and what the role entails can be found in the attached job pack. To apply please complete and return the application form found by clicking 'apply'.

Position: CEO

Responsible to: Board of Trustees

Location: Office-based in Blackpool, with some remote working possible

Hours: 37.5

Salary: £40,000

Annual leave: 31 days (including bank holidays)

Deadline for applications: 9am 15th September 2025

We seek a highly capable Membership and Office Administrator to support the work of the Society’s professional Office based at University College London.

The role will focus primarily on supporting and communicating with the Society’s extensive membership, which largely comprises practising historians in higher education and other sectors, as well as prospective members, applicants for the Society’s extensive research funding programme, and members of the public.

The role holder will report to the Membership and Programmes Manager and will also assist in the running of the Society’s research funding schemes. This is a hybrid position which supports home / remote working as the predominant model. As part of a small Office team, the post holder will in addition assist with the administration and efficient running of the Office on a daily basis. The Society offers an employer contributor pension of 12% and a friendly, supportive and highly professional working environment.

The Royal Historical Society is the UK’s foremost learned society and membership organisation for the support and promotion of historians and historical research and teaching in higher education and related sectors.

As a registered charity, founded in 1868 and now with more than 6,500 Fellows and Members, the Society champions the discipline of history within higher education and well beyond. Our remit is to support historians of all kinds to undertake and encourage historical research and understanding; to advocate for history and its practitioners; to represent history as a discipline and historians as a group; and to promote greater equality and representation within historical practice.

Honing a safe place. Smooth operations. Delivering at a fast pace.

Health & Safety Advisor

£28,000 - £33,000 (+ )

Reports to: Senior Health & Safety Manager

Contract: Permanent

Hours: Full time 35 hours per week

Location: Home-based (UK)

*This role will involve occasional travel to Cancer Research UK sites across the UK and will be eligible for travel expenses.

Visa sponsorship: You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this vacancy. Cancer Research UK is not able to offer visa sponsorship.

Closing date: 03 September 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. If you require more time to apply as part of a reasonable adjustment, please contact as soon as possible.

Recruitment process: One competency-based interview

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 fully complete the work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you quickly, fairly, and objectively.

At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer.

We are professionals with purpose, beating cancer every day. But we need to go much further and much faster. That's why we're looking for someone talented, someone who wants to develop their skills, someone like you.

The Chief Operating Office is at the heart of engaging and inspiring Cancer Research UK's people by delivering operational transformation and an employee experience that enables us to be an inclusive and agile organisation. We aim to become the hub for operational management ensuring we govern, prioritise, and are effective and efficient in all we do.

Our Health & Safety team is crucial to this mission by creating a safe and healthy environment for our staff and volunteers. With a presence spanning over 600 stores, 40 superstores, 4 distribution hubs, online marketplaces, 4 scientific research institutes (laboratories), and 2 head offices across the UK, the team provides expert health, safety, and wellbeing support. This involves responding to c. 1,000 accidents and c.3.000 incidents reported per annum while ensuring compliance with regulations and best practices and collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders.

We are searching for a Health & Safety Advisor to play a vital role in supporting our Health & Safety Managers by providing expert advice on activities across the charity and hybrid environments. In this role, you'll be the go-to expert for health and safety matters across our organisation, providing advice and practical support to ensure we meet our statutory obligations and control any health and safety risks to our people, and anyone else affected by the charity's activities. From investigating incidents to developing operational procedures, you'll have the opportunity to create a safe and supportive environment across a diverse range of areas (e.g., Trading, Fundraising, Research, and many more), meaning no day will be the same.

If you are a NEBOSH-qualified Health & Safety Advisor who has operated within large, complex, and hybrid organisations (both onsite and remote-based) and can travel across the UK, we would love for you to join our mission.

What will I be doing?

• Providing first-line health and safety (H&S) advice and support across Cancer Research UK via phone and email.

• Leading the investigation of specified accidents and H&S incidents, making recommendations for changes, and ensuring that records are updated accurately.

• Providing advice and support to staff on workstation set up, ensuring that training records are maintained, and appropriate risk assessments are in place.

• Undertaking active monitoring activities to show compliance across a diverse range of health and safety issues.

• Helping to develop and implement safe operational procedures which identify and account for all relevant hazards.

• Supporting the risk assessment process, ensuring accurate records are maintained.

• Playing an active role in developing H&S information and training, ensuring to share and communicate with relevant stakeholders.

• Undertaking other tasks, as necessary, to contribute to the team objectives and those of Cancer Research UK.

What skills will I need?

• NEBOSH General Certificate level+ qualified (or equivalent) Health & Safety professional who has advised on health and safety matters in large, complex, and hybrid organisations (both onsite and remote-based).

• Demonstrable understanding of UK Health & Safety legislation and good practice.

• Excellent stakeholder engagement and management with demonstrable interpersonal, influencing, and negotiating skills with a proven ability to communicate effectively in writing, face-to-face, and by telephone with a wide-ranging audience.

• Proficient in using accident & compliance management systems and databases.

• Ability to work as part of a team and contribute towards the team's collective success

• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify creative solutions to a diverse range of problems.

• Able to travel across the UK to Cancer Research UK stores and offices (ideally has a driver's license, but we're open to candidates who can travel via public transport).

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.

If you're interested in applying and excited about working with us but are unsure if you have the right skills and experience we'd still love to hear from you.

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 .

Additional Information

For more information about working with us please or contact us at .

For more updates on our work and careers, follow us on: , , , and .

Do you believe that it is possible to change the rules of the economy so that it works better for people and planet? Are you driven by a commitment to make the UK more equitable, sustainable and democratic? Are you an expert in social policy? If so, we have the job for you.

For 40 years NEF has turned bold ideas, robust research and community power into real-world change to build a new economy that works for people and planet. At this critical moment in global and domestic politics, we are looking for someone to head up our social policy team, leading visionary flagship programmes on public service reform, housing and social security. NEF has always been a pioneer of cutting-edge research, big ideas and effective campaigning. We work at the interface between economic, social and environmental policy and we are looking for a Head of Social Policy that can help us push this frontier. 

Working with a talented team of researchers and economists, directors and other heads, you will develop a strategy to steer NEF’s social policy work, lead the development of and fundraising for programmes of research, policy and influencing and help ensure new and existing work delivers clear, high quality and rigorous outputs and outcomes.

You will need a strong track record of leading research, policy development, a keen sense of how change happens and strong relationships with partners across politics, civil society, trade unions and business. And you will need a passion for economic, social and environmental justice and a belief that we can make change happen.

Role: Head of Social Policy

Hours of work: Full Time

NEF operates a Shorter Working Week, with a full-time equivalent of 32 hours per week. As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant, which can be discussed at interview stage.

Salary range: £56,477 to £68,268, depending on qualifications and experience

Location: London (in-office min two days per week)

Contract type: permanent

Responsible to: Deputy Chief Executive

The Head of Social Policy leads the development of our thinking across public service reform, social security and housing.  This role develops - and is responsible for the effective delivery of a NEF-wide social policy strategy and of projects that are delivering on this strategy.  The Head of Social Policy acts as a key spokesperson for NEF and promotes our work at a local, regional and national level.

As NEF has a particular strategic focus on transforming the way policy is made so that it better reflects the lived experience of the people, communities and movements that most need change, we look to heads across our different themes to help develop and test new approaches to policy and advocacy.

The Head of Social Policy generates project ideas, oversees the development of quantitative and qualitative research, leads funding bids and manages day-to-day funder relationships.  This role leads a team which both develops our thinking on social policy and provides expertise to other teams at NEF.

 Deadline for applications: midnight on 14th September 2025

Interviews: 23rd and 25th September 2025

Start date: ASAP

To apply, please send your CV and Covering letter (no longer than 2 pages) outlining how you meet the person specification in Word format.

Please also complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring from.

You must be eligible to work in the UK, we are unable to sponsor visas.

NEF is committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of their background. We acknowledge that people from certain backgrounds are under-represented in research and policy making and we’re committed to doing what we can to correct this. We are particularly keen to receive applications from black, asian and minority ethnic people; people with disabilities; people who identify as being LGTBQIA; people who have a mental health condition; and people who identify as working class or have done so in the past. We are also aware that many highly capable prospective candidates nonetheless rule themselves out of work in research and policy because they underestimate their own ability to do the role. With this in mind, we strongly encourage applications from anyone who is prepared to learn and grow on the job and would like to stress that past experience of working in think tanks is not required.

As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.  We make use of positive action to select between candidates of equal merit as a way to address under-representation in our workforce.

NEF believes in diversity

Registered charity number 1055254

People’s Palace Projects (PPP) is a research-led arts charity based at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) and a National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) of Arts Council England (ACE). We develop collaborative arts-based projects with artists, activists, academics, policy advocates, and audiences to address social and climate injustices in the UK, Brazil and beyond. Over the past 28 years, PPP has gained national and international recognition for extensive work exploring the power of creative practices and partnering with marginalised communities to drive change. 

The next five years (2025-2030) will focus on expanding research supported by leadership transition, strengthening capacity, and strategic development, while maintaining core values of collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation. At this exciting moment, PPP is seeking a new General Manager (part-time) to deliver and develop the financial, administrative, and HR systems that anchor our energetic programme of arts research activity and support our committed team to flourish.

Job Description 

• Title: General Manager
• Hours of work: 22.5 hours per week (0.6FTE) 
• Salary: £43,000 FTE (£25,800 actual)
• Location: PPP office, Queen Mary University of London Mile End campus.
  • Hybrid homeworking is available, and there will be an occasional requirement to attend events or meetings elsewhere.
• Reporting to: Executive Director (ED) 
• Supervising: Administration & Finance Officer (A&FO) 
• Notice period: 3 months (either side) 

Key Objectives 

• To lead on the Financial Accounting & Management, Human Resources, and Administration functions of People’s Palace Projects (PPP), working closely with the Directors and A&FO. 

• To support the operations of PPP’s Board of Trustees, including managing the business planning process. 

• To manage statistical monitoring and funder reporting. 

• To contribute to PPP’s overall strategic development as a member of the Governance Group (senior management team).

A thorough list of the role's duties and responsibilities, along with the person specification, can be found in the attached application pack.

Communications and Engagement Lead
Salary: £33,366 per annum (SCP 23)
Location: Hybrid (Northampton 3 days/week)
Hours: 37 per week

Be the voice that empowers, inspires, and makes a difference.

The Psoriasis Association is the UK’s leading charity supporting people with psoriasis, advancing care, and driving research towards a cure. As we deliver our 2025-2030 Strategy, we’re looking for a creative, strategic communicator to lead campaigns, manage media relations, and represent the patient voice at national level.

In this varied, hands-one role, you will:

• Lead major campaigns such as Psoriasis Awareness Week
• Produce compelling content across digital, print, and media
• Oversee media relations and act as a spokesperson (training provided)
• Manage and update our websites, monitor performance, and run paid ads
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders across health, research, and policy
• Oversee helpline coverage – ensuring it is staffed at all times, stepping in when needed, and using patient insights to shape communications

We’re seeking someone with proven experience in communications or media, exceptional storytelling skills, and a collaborative, proactive approach. Digital literacy and confidence with analytics are a plus.

What we offer:

• 34 days annual leave (inc. bank holidays), rising to 39 after 5 years
• Extra day off for your birthday or another special day of your choice
• 6% employer pension contribution
• Health insurance (after probation)
• Flexible, family-friendly working patterns

Help shape the next chapter in our story – and make a lasting difference for people with psoriasis.

Closing date: Thursday 11th September 2025 – we may close early if sufficient suitable applications are received.
Interviews: Tuesday 23rd September 2025, in person at our Northampton Head Office.

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.

The Psoriasis Association is committed to providing equal opportunities in the recruitment, training and development of employees.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application, as we are not able to provide visa sponsorship.

No agencies please.

Animals Asia: Philanthropy Manager (USA Lead)
Location: UK Home based, with easy travel to London. Requirement to accommodate US business hours where necessary, with some evening and weekend work.
Salary: £50,000 per annum
Contract: Full-time, Permanent

At Animals Asia, we don’t just talk about compassion – we live it. Every. Single. Day. We're on a powerful mission to end cruelty and restore respect for animals across Asia. Best known for our pioneering work to end bear bile farming, we also run life-saving sanctuaries in China and Vietnam and push for long-term, sustainable change. With 400+ passionate changemakers around the globe, our movement is growing fast – and we need YOU to help lead the charge.
We’re on the hunt for an experienced major gift fundraiser to lead our philanthropy activities in the USA – you will have an exceptional ability to build and maintain relationships with key existing stakeholders as well as potential new donors to help us grow our giving community in the region and supercharge our impact for animals.
What You’ll Do:
As our new Philanthropy Lead for the USA, you’ll:

• Develop and implement strategies to cultivate, solicit and steward donors to support the charity.
• Lead on high-net-worth individual relationships in the USA and the strategic management of a donor pipeline.
• Grow our philanthropic income and build strong, long-term relationships with donors.
• Deputise for other philanthropy managers where required and share your experience and ambition with the wider philanthropy team.

Who You Are:
You will have expertise and a track record in major gift fundraising, relationship management and prospect research, as well as be able to demonstrate superb donor care. You will also be an authentic and confident leader who can build a genuine and long-lasting connection between donors and Animals Asia. You will have superb communication and project management skills, and you will relish the opportunity to travel to the United States at least twice a year to meet with donors.
You thrive in remote teams, know your way around CRMs, and you’re 100% aligned with our values: Empathy. Respect. Courage. Tenacity.
Most of all? You care deeply about animal welfare – and you’re ready to turn that passion into progress.

Ready to Learn More?
Click below to view our full Candidate Pack for everything you need to know – including how to apply.

Closing date: Monday 1st September, 9am BST.

About the Role

We’re looking for a dynamic and experienced Therapy Service Manager (Job Share) to co-lead our passionate therapy team at Headway East London. The Therapy Service Manager is responsible for leading the therapy team to plan and deliver an excellent service which empowers our community of brain injury survivors. This role is a job share and covers the following aspects of the Headway East London Therapy Service: Enfield Brain Injury Service (Enfield) and our Hackney-based Day Service.

As Therapy Service Manager, you will lead the delivery of therapy services within both the Day Service and Enfield, ensuring high standards, consistency, and a strong sense of purpose across the team. You will play a vital role in the growth and development of the therapy offer across all of Headway East London, working closely with your job share partner and the Director of Services (Clinical Lead) to shape and expand our provision.

This is a unique opportunity for someone with strong clinical leadership and strategic planning skills to help shape the future of our therapy services.

We are looking for someone who brings: 

• Provide leadership to the therapy team to ensure the efficient delivery, quality and consistency of this service within Enfield and the Day Service.
• Manage the development of plans and strategies for the therapy team and instil a sense of collaboration, common goals and working together across the team to ensure the sustainability of the service.
• Build good relationships with stakeholders in the boroughs we serve to develop opportunities for growth and development of our services.
• Work with the Director of Services (Clinical Lead) on commissioning/tender/framework contracting arrangements with the ICS’s we serve. 
• Work with staff to ensure our members’ voices are at the centre of everything we do.
• Work with the Director of Services (Clinical Lead) and the Finance team to ensure unit costs are accurate and work to ensure full costs of the service are recovered from customers. 
• Work with the Director of Services (Clinical Lead) and the Director of Development to explore new opportunities to develop our business to generate income. 
• Assist the Director of Services (Clinical Lead) to explore and implement effective ways to evidence the outcomes of our members and the impact of our services to demonstrate our effectiveness.

Key Relationships - Internal and External

 Internal: Therapy Team, Managers and Members

 External: Quality assurance and Contracts managers

Other

Apply the Headway East London values and behaviours to every aspect of the role at all times.

Protect and enhance the interests and reputation of Headway East London internally and externally.

Commit to the organisational principles of: coproduction equity, diversity and inclusion sustainability.

Headway East London is an Equal Opportunities Employer and we are committed to ensuring that all staff are motivated, skilled and rewarded by their work. We welcome applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, colour, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age and other protected status as required by law. We promote and protect human rights; they are the foundation of what we do. We want to be an inclusive place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come and contribute their unique strengths and perspectives. We are focused on equality and believe that all the fascinating characteristics that make us different, make us more able to deliver our life-changing work with passion and creativity.

Finance Business Partner
Salary: c. £55,000–£60,000
Permanent, Full-time
Hybrid working – 2 days in office
Location: Central London

A leading international policy institute is seeking a Finance Business Partner to join its finance team. This is an exciting opportunity for a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) to play a pivotal role in supporting world-class research that shapes debate and drives solutions to global challenges.

About the role
As Finance Business Partner, you will provide strategic financial insight and support to one of the organisation’s flagship research centres. The centre delivers thought leadership on the intersection of environment, society, and international affairs – working with governments, business and civil society to influence policy and accelerate sustainable change.

Embedded within the research centre but working closely with the wider finance team, you will take the lead on budgeting, forecasting and management reporting, ensuring resources are aligned with strategic priorities. You will also oversee complex grant- and contract-funded projects, helping to ensure that funding is used effectively and reported transparently to international partners and donors.

This role offers the opportunity to shape how financial insight supports high-impact research, strengthen the link between finance and programme delivery, and contribute to a major organisational transformation, including the introduction of a new finance system.

Key priorities in your first six months

• Lead on annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting and financial reporting for the centre.
• Oversee project finances, including income recognition, funder reporting and contract compliance.
• Partner with senior researchers and programme managers, ensuring financial information drives decision-making and accountability.
• Support process improvement and system changes as part of a wider finance transformation.

About you
We are seeking a fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with experience in finance business partnering or management accounting, ideally within an international NGO, policy institute, or other research-led, grant-funded environment.

You will bring:

• Strong experience in budgeting, forecasting and reporting.
• Knowledge of international funding models, including government or foundation grants and contracts.
• The ability to present financial information clearly to non-finance colleagues and senior stakeholders.
• A collaborative and proactive approach, with an interest in supporting research that addresses global issues.

This is a unique opportunity to combine your financial expertise with a commitment to advancing solutions on some of the most pressing international challenges of our time.

Drive the policy agenda for a high-profile, mission-led charity representing over 1,150 schools in the North East and a futher 400 specialist schools nationally. Influence education strategy and shape national debate from the heart of the North East.

Make a Difference with Schools North East

Schools North East is a dynamic, purpose-driven charity that champions the education sector across the North East. Representing a collaborative community of over 1,150 member schools, we are recognised nationally as the Voice advocating for North East schools, the Glue fostering collaboration, and the Bridge connecting education with the wider world. Now approaching our 20th year, we are entering an exciting new phase of development, strengthening our influence, expanding our reach, and enhancing the value we deliver to our members.

As Policy Manager, you will be a senior leader responsible for working with Directors to deliver our strategic policy and public affairs agenda. You will ensure alignment between policy, research, stakeholder engagement, and events, using evidence and insight to influence decision-makers at the highest levels. This is a pivotal, high-profile role requiring a dynamic, politically astute, and highly experienced strategic thinker with a deep understanding of how policy is shaped and implemented.

We are looking for a values-led leader who can anticipate long-term trends and align strategies with the organisation’s vision, taking account of the political, economic, and educational policy landscape. You will make bold yet considered decisions, taking calculated risks where appropriate, and responding promptly and effectively to critical events. You will lead by example, actively promoting SNE’s values and vision both internally and externally, and influencing our strategy, direction, and culture to increase organisational effectiveness.

You will bring a collaborative, resilient, and adaptable approach, fostering a culture of learning and development that helps your team grow and succeed, while sharing your own expertise to support others. With exceptional communication skills, you will engage stakeholders with purpose and conviction, and ensure that policy work is evidence-led, impactful, and aligned with member needs. This is an opportunity to join a respected and ambitious organisation at a key point in its journey – and to play a personal role in shaping its next chapter of success.

Salary:            Senior Leader Band 5 – £40,775–£52,196, depending on experience
Location:         Central Newcastle (with flexibility to work from home on Fridays)
Hours:             Full-time, 36 hours per week
Holidays:         30 days plus Bank Holidays
Travel:             Some regional and national travel, as required

Closing Date: 5pm Wednesday 27 August 2025
Interview Date: Tuesday 16 September 2025

Key Responsibilities

Organisational Leadership

• Contribute to the strategic leadership of Schools North East as a senior manager, ensuring policy work supports the organisation’s long-term mission and values.

Strategic Policy Leadership

• Lead the development and delivery of Schools North East’s policy agenda, ensuring it reflects member needs and is grounded in robust evidence.
• Anticipate and respond to emerging political and policy developments, both regionally and nationally.

Public Affairs & Influence

• Build and maintain high-level relationships between the organisation and government, political stakeholders, and sector influencers to maximise SNE’s influence.
• Represent Schools North East at external events, inquiries, and meetings, speaking with authority on behalf of our members.

Research & Intelligence

• Undertake research where appropriate to inform strategic priorities.
• Interpret and communicate external research to help support strategic priorities and inform policy work.
• Oversee the production of high-quality policy briefings, consultation responses, and position papers.

Campaign Leadership

• Design impactful campaigns that raise the profile of key education issues and strengthen SNE’s role as a thought leader.
• Ensure alignment between policy priorities and marketing/communications activity.

Stakeholder Engagement & Networks

• Develop stakeholder networks, forums, and roundtables to inform policy positions and enhance influence.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead and mentor direct reports, setting clear KPIs and fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
• Work closely with the Directors, Business, Events and Marketing teams to ensure policy activity supports and enhances core functions.

Organisational Leadership

• Contribute to the strategic leadership of Schools North East as a senior manager, ensuring policy work supports the organisation’s long-term mission and values.

Do you know how to connect with communities and bring people together? Can you help shape the future of volunteering at a national level?

We’re looking for a Volunteering Recruitment Lead to help grow and diversify our volunteer base at the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association. This is a unique opportunity to shape a new approach to volunteer recruitment, build strong relationships within communities, and support colleagues to do the same.

As Volunteering Recruitment Lead, you will play a central role in how we promote, recruit, and support volunteers across the organisation. You’ll create and share practical resources that help staff and volunteers grow local teams in inclusive and sustainable ways. This role is ideal for someone who understands volunteering, knows how to connect with communities, and enjoys working collaboratively to make a difference.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of a strong volunteer value proposition and brand identity for volunteering at the Association
• Design and deliver accessible national and local volunteer recruitment campaigns
• Work with marketing and digital colleagues to create engaging and inclusive materials and digital content
• Provide toolkits, guidance, and examples that help colleagues recruit consistently, confidently and effectively
• Coach and support staff involved in volunteer recruitment, modelling good practice where needed
• Engage with underrepresented communities and explore new ways of involving a wider range of people
• Build relationships with staff and volunteers to identify local needs and opportunities for growth
• Support improvements to volunteer application processes and onboarding journeys
• Use data and insight to identify gaps, track progress, and share learning
• Contribute to innovation in volunteering by exploring new recruitment models and approaches

About You:

• Experience of community-based engagement with an understanding of best practices when recruiting and supporting volunteers 
• Experience of recruitment
• Experience working with diverse communities and using inclusive approaches
• Skilled at developing resources and supporting others to use them
• Able to engage others through confident public speaking and clear communication
• Comfortable working independently and driving new initiatives
• Good planning and time management skills
• Collaborative and confident working across teams
• Competent using Microsoft Office and familiar with social media platforms
• Driving License and willingness to travel for community visits as needed

About Us:

Our vision is a world free from MND. Our mission is to improve care and support for people with MND, their families and carers. We fund and promote research that leads to new understanding and treatments and brings us closer to a cure for MND. The Association also campaigns and raises awareness so the needs of people with MND, and everyone who cares for them, are recognised, and addressed by wider society.

What We Offer:

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays.
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies.
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video.
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines.
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave).
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping.
• Enhanced pension scheme.
• Opportunities for training and personal development.
• Hybrid working.

The full job description is available in the candidate pack.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.

As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.

Hybrid Working and Flexibility: This role offers hybrid working, with the expectation to attend the office a minimum of 2 days per month with flexibility to attend the office for team meetings and in line with business requirements. We are open to part-time applications or job shares – please indicate your preferred working arrangement in your application.

How to apply:

Please submit a CV and supporting statement. Your supporting statement should be no longer than one side of A4 and demonstrate how you meet the following areas of the role.

• Experience in community engagement
• Experience of recruitment
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a confident public speaker and skilled at presenting ideas, with the ability to engage effectively with volunteers, staff, and external stakeholders 

Important Information:

• We may close applications early if we receive a high volume, so early submissions are encouraged.
• If you require sponsorship for this role, please clearly indicate this in your application.
• Depending on the role, a DBS check may be required.
• If you need reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us for support.
• We are happy to consider alternative application formats for those who find the online form challenging.

The Volunteering Recruitment Lead joins at an exciting time. You’ll be part of a supportive team with the opportunity to shape and develop our approach to volunteer recruitment and engagement. The environment is busy, creative, people-centred, and full of potential.

This is an ideal next step for someone ready to scale up their impact, bring ideas to life, and help create a strong, sustainable future for volunteering at the MND Association.