Safeguarding officer jobs in orpington, england

We are a small but mighty team, with huge ambitions to transform more lives of those who live with an intellectual disability, through the power of sport.  

If you are just looking for a job, then we are probably not for you. However, if you are an experienced Corporate Partnerships Manager with a track record of driving high-value, purpose-driven partnerships that create lasting impact and you are looking for a challenge, a chance to make a huge difference and you want to be part of a high performing team which gets things done, then we would like to hear from you. 

We continue to be focused on our vision to create an inclusive world for all, driven by the power of sport, through which people with intellectual disabilities live active, healthy and fulfilling lives. We are a small, but growing, team with huge ambitions, and applicants must be comfortable operating in an environment where working under your own initiative is expected and encouraged.

We are looking for people who are passionate about Special Olympics and are completely aligned with our values. We are authentic. We act with honesty, integrity and respect. We are creative and innovative. We love to embrace difference and doing things differently. We are brave, courageous, resilient and determined. We listen and are led by the voice of our athletes. We are always kind. We are Inclusion in Action.

We are continuing to build a high-performing team who care for each other and care about our cause. Our athletes are incredibly inspirational, courageous and insightful people, and they deserve a team who are equally committed and passionate about our mission. 

How to Apply  

For Job Role specifics please see the Job Description attached. The role is a fixed term contract to 31st March 2027,  with the possibility of this being extended.  The role will require travel, with 3 days per week traveling to Fuller, Smith and Turner sites. Previous applicants need not apply.

To apply, please send a covering letter (maximum 2 pages) explaining why you wish to work for Special Olympics GB. It is important that all prospective employees understand our mission and are driven by our cause. Please be specific about how your skills and experience will help you undertake this role. Generic letters and agency approaches will not be considered. Please also include your CV.

Closing date for applications is 04/08/25. First stage interviews will be held w/c 11/08/25. 

Special Olympics GB is committed to equality and diversity and encourages all sections of the community, particularly those living with a disability, who meet the job requirements to apply. We are a Disability Confident Employer.

The job holder will need to provide evidence of their ability to live and work in the UK and will be required to undertake a DBS check.   

We will only contact those who have been selected for interview. 

We request no contact from agencies. 

You will be part of a small team that works collaboratively towards making a huge impact on the lives of the children and families we work with. We look for people who want to be part of a service that is innovative, creative and constantly striving to do better.

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Adoption Service Coordinator and Panel Administrator to support the effective delivery of adoption services. This pivotal role ensures smooth coordination of assessments, panel meetings, and administrative tasks across the Permanency Service. You will act as a key point of contact between professionals, adoptive families, and external agencies, ensuring efficient communication and compliance with regulatory standards. The successful candidate will possess exceptional attention to detail, excellent time management skills, and the ability to work in a sensitive and dynamic environment

You will be involved in the development of the service and your views, and insights are encouraged.

· Coordinate diaries and communication across the Permanency Service team.

· Manage and log adoption enquiries; maintain records in Beacon CRM and CHARMS.

· Support adoption assessments, events, and i-adopt marketing updates.

· Organise Adoption Panel meetings, including scheduling and report preparation.

· Take and finalise panel meeting minutes; ensure timely decisions and notifications.

· Maintain panel member records, training logs, and meeting attendance.

· Update web content, brochures, and social media with adoption recruitment materials.

· Collect and share feedback for service improvement and performance reporting.

You will have regular informal guidance and formal supervision on a monthly basis. You will be part of the wider service of Family Futures and attend monthly Team Days to learn, share and develop the service and your practice.

We are looking for an individual who is:

• Motivated to work with families and derive satisfaction from seeing the development of adopters
• Not fazed by complex needs, challenges, and adversity
• Embraces a parent-positive and child friendly approach
• Able to work in a small team and be a team player
• Wants to develop their knowledge base and interest in multi-disciplinary working through a therapeutic lens.
• Thrives in a collaborative and integrated team environment.

What we offer

Benefits of joining Family Futures

· High-quality supervision and professional development training.

· We run regular Learning Forums to support and learn from each other

· An empowering and encouraging environment

· A nurturing environment for staff to work, including a weekly self-care session.

We believe that embracing different perspectives enriches our agency's culture and strengthens our ability to serve the children and families we work with. Therefore, we welcome applications from candidates from a wide range of lived experience and are actively recruiting people from the global majority. By ‘global majority’, we mean Black African, Black Caribbean, Asian and dual heritage communities.

We are an equal opportunities employer and committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce. We encourage applications from suitably qualified applicants regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Family Futures is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. The organisation follows safer recruitment practices to protect children and adults at risk of harm and will require the successful applicant to undertake an enhanced DBS disclosure.

Family Futures is a menopause friendly employer.

As Director of Finance you will lead on all financial aspects of the transtion as the Movement for Reform Judaism and Liberal Judaism merge to form a single unified organsation, Progressive Judaism.  This post will provide crucuial oversight during this period of change, laying foundations for strong financial governance and operational excellence in the new entity.

Working closely with CEOs, senior staff and trustees across both organisations, you will oversee the creation and implementation of robust financial systems, controls and reporting lines whilst ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.  Managing and supporting a finance team, you will ensure continuity of outsourced finance services to existing partner organisaitons during the transition as well as ensure continuity of high-quality financial services across both MRJ and LJ.

As a qualified accountant you will have strong exerpeince in charity finance, including SORP and audit preparation.  A proactive, solutions-focused mindset, with the ability to manage competing priorities is essential.  With proven experience in mangaging organisational change or mergers, you will be an excellent people leader with oustanding communicaiton skills.

So why join us?  You will be part of a progressive, values-driven movement at a historic moment of transformation!  You will work with passionate colleagues and board members, helping to build infrastructure that supports vibrant, inclusive Jewish communities across the UK.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead our Alumni Engagement team who provide support to an alumni base of almost 40,000 contactable alumni of the Sutton Trust programmes. These are generally young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds who move into highly competitive universities, courses and careers. The alumni community has grown rapidly over the past 3 years and now expects around 6-7000 new alumni to join each September. Engagement covers supporting their transition to university and into the workplace through communications, events and programmes. It also spans alumni volunteering, our Alumni Leadership Board, and working with our Development team towards alumni giving.

The role is dynamic and diverse, requiring you to be able to think strategically whilst devising and delivering on operational delivery plans, and we are looking for a confident and experienced team leader during a period of maternity leave.

This role is part of the Programmes Leadership Team and will work closely with the Director of Programmes, Head of Employability Programmes and Head of University Access & Digital on shaping the strategic direction of the team and its programmatic work. The role will also connect closely to the work of the Development Team as we look to devise and implement a segmented alumni giving scheme, as well as the Communications and Policy team, and may evolve to take on new projects over time.

Main duties

• Strategic leadership to alumni engagement, including:
  • Embedding alumni relations and programming across the organisation, ensuring alumni are considered or involved in all areas of the Trust’s work
  • Managing budget and project timelines to ensure projects are delivered effectively
  • Working with the wider programmes team to ensure a smooth transition for Sutton Trust beneficiaries between programmes and the alumni community

• Alumni Engagement and Volunteering:
  • Refining and communicating the alumni strategy across the Trust and to donors and external stakeholders
  • Growing the Sutton Trust alumni network and developing a long-term strategy for alumni engagement, including communications and events, identifying key areas of focus and setting out benchmarks and KPIs
  • Overseeing a suite of volunteering opportunities for alumni to give back to, and represent the Trust in (for example on programmes, with our funder base, in our research and policy work, or to benefit the alumni community)
  • Managing the online alumni platform (STA) and its integration with other platforms .
  • Overseeing the recruitment to and engagement of the Alumni Leadership Board and new Changemaker/Ambassador programme to build on our advocacy work, and ensuring effective engagement with the work of the Trust and the wider alumni community
  • Ensuring that the above complements a long-term plan which would enable alumni to fundraise for the Trust or make donations in support of the Trust

• Programme management and Alumni Support:
  • Support delivery of access to the workplace and employability programming for alumni alongside the Head of Employability Programmes
  • Overseeing the delivery of bursary support programmes (including the Opportunity Bursary funded by JP Morgan) by the Alumni Programmes Manager from recruitment to evaluation and reporting
  • Overseeing the delivery of a series of employer-led events (working with employer-facing colleagues across the Trust) across a range of industry sectors that support student access to workplace opportunities, and the chance to build employability skills (such as networking / interview skills etc)
  • Overseeing the development of content and activities to support young alumni transitioning to HE
  • Overseeing the evaluation and scoping for potential growth for alumni-alumni mentoring with the Alumni Connect programme (piloted in Spring 2025)
  • Ensuring appropriate systems and processes are in place to manage programmes and events for alumni

• Alumni Giving and Relationship Management
  • Working closely with the Development team to provide support for key funding partnerships including those that directly fund/ work with the Alumni team.
  • Working with the Director of Development/ Head of Philanthropy to input into a new strategy to build funding from our alumni
  • Working with the Development team to implement an ongoing segmented fundraising communications plan to build awareness of our need for funding and directing alumni to appropriate giving schemes depending on their life/career stage
  • Identifying potential mid to high level alumni donors and working with the Development team to cultivate
  • Representing the Trust and facilitating introductions via senior alumni for new and potential employer or delivery partners

• Team Management:
  • Leading the alumni team to ensure effective engagement of our alumni community, including line management responsibility, team meetings, pastoral support and appraisals
  • Line managing, motivating and proactively supporting the Alumni Programmes Manager and Senior Alumni Officer in their professional development
  • Working with Director of Programmes and Heads of Programmes on team management, culture and long term planning
  • Working across the organisation on cross-team projects, such as with the employer working group, youth voice, Changemaker pilot, alumni giving, and STO/STA platforms strategy.
  • Member of extended-SLT

• Other duties as necessary from time to time

Person Specification

We welcome applications from individuals who have experience in:

• Professional experience of alumni relations, or managing other similar membership communities, ideally within the education or charity sector.
• Has experience working within or an understanding of the not for profit sector and/or the education sectors;
• Experience of developing strategies, frameworks and operational plans to support alumni relations, programmes and events for young people, or equivalent
• Strong understanding of databases, data processes and experience using a CRM (ideally Salesforce)
• Experience in project management, monitoring and evaluation, managing budgets, financial control and administration
• Building relationships with significant, diverse stakeholder groups
• Experience of managing volunteers and volunteer stewardship
• Excellent verbal and written communication and strong analytical skills
• First-class interpersonal skills - a natural ambassador able to represent the Sutton Trust in a range of settings
• Working collaboratively across teams and within a small team
• Line management and leadership of a small team
• Adapting to new opportunities and trialling new initiatives
• Personable, flexible and discreet; able to fit in to a small team

We are also looking for an individual who:

• Has experience of building philanthropic support through alumni
• Is sympathetic to the aims of the Trust and its mission to address educational disadvantage;
• Has excellent attention to detail;
• Is eligible to work in the UK (see here for information about right to work)

Terms of Appointment

• • Contract: 13-month Fixed-term Maternity cover contract starting November 2025. Our ideal dates are from 1 November 2025 – 30 November 2026, however we can be flexible if needed for the right candidate.
  • Salary: £60,000-£64,000 per annum
  • Working location: Minimum of 2 office days per week
  • Office location: The Sutton Trust, 9th Floor, Millbank Tower, 21-24 Millbank, London, SW1P 4QP. Our home working policy gives staff the option to work from home for up to 60% of the time, with approval from their line manager.
  • Hours: The standard working hours are 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday and may also be required to attend events / meetings outside of their normal working hours during weekday evenings and occasionally at weekends
  • DBS check will be required

Interviews

Applications should reach us by midnight, Sunday 20th July, with first round interviews held over Zoom on Tuesday, 29th July, and second round interviews held at our London offices on Tuesday, 5th August.

Safeguarding statement

The Sutton Trust believes that a child, young person or vulnerable adult should never experience abuse of any kind. We all have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people and to keep them safe. Therefore all posts undergo a safer recruitment process, including but not limited to, disclosure of criminal records where necessary and eligibility to work in the UK. We have procedures in place to promote safeguarding and a safe culture at the Trust.

Contextual recruitment

The Trust is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity and that all applicants receive equal consideration for employment. We strongly encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those underrepresented at present at the Trust, to apply for this role. As such we particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities, Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ and from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds. We are committed to being an inclusive and welcoming place to work and know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the young people we support.

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for disabled candidates throughout our recruitment process and during employment.

We also operate contextual recruitment at the Sutton Trust. Our application process gives you the option to include information about your background, such as whether you were eligible for free school meals, whether your parents went to university, or whether you attended a state school. For more examples and information on contextual recruitment, please see our website.

JOB DESCRIPTION

 Job Title:  Internal Auditor 

 Location:  London or Nairobi (with a right to work)

 Reporting to:  Chief Executive Officer (CEO) functional line to the Director of Finance and Operations

Grade and salary  Grade F (in line with national salary scale)  UK - £43,800 per annum , Kenya - Ksh 5,010,684 per annum

Type of position: National (as above)

 Contract terms and hours: Open ended (depending on funding). Full time, 37.5 hours per week  

Background:

Saferworld is an independent international organisation working to prevent violent conflict and build safer lives. We work with people affected by conflict to improve their safety and sense of security, and conduct wider research and analysis. We use this evidence and learning to improve local, national and international policies and practices that can help build lasting peace. Our priority is people – we believe in a world where everyone can lead peaceful, fulfilling lives, free from fear and insecurity. We are a not-for-profit organisation operational in nine countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Saferworld is committed to providing a safe and trusted environment that safeguards our staff, partners and communities. Our organisational integrity is derived from the values and principles that underpin and guide our work.

Saferworld’s staff are at the heart of our work and their skills and expertise ensure we continue to function a leading conflict prevention and peacebuilding organisation. As we evolve and grow, we want to ensure our programmes, research and capacity interventions retain their quality, stay rooted in the voices of people living in conflict, and ensure our staff are motivated and challenged in their work.

The success of our organisation’s mission depends on people. Capitalising on what is unique about individuals and drawing on their different perspectives and experiences will add value to the way we work. Saferworld is committed to the principles of equality of opportunity for all and seeks to promote a positive approach to equality and diversity and within the scope of the relevant legislation, to having a workforce and working environment that is free of discrimination, prejudice, stereotyping, harassment, victimisation and undignified behaviour. We oppose all forms of unlawful or unfair discrimination.

The Internal Auditor role will undertake internal audit assignments, develop country-specific internal audit processes or thematic internal audits and work with our London and global teams to support external audit processes in countries of operation, oversee the global audit register, and with teams across the organisation advance effective financial management performance across the organisation

Job purpose:

Reporting to the CEO and working closely with the Director of Finance and Operations, the post holder will undertake internal audit assignments and compliance reviews aimed at improving Saferworld’s internal systems and processes. The post-holder will also support the development of financial controls and build the capacity of finance and operational teams to implement them effectively.

The role requires a high level of initiative; proven skills and experience in project management; experience working collaboratively with others to achieve our vision; and strong communication and problem-solving skills.

The post-holder will have a successful track record in designing and leading internal audit processes and strengthening control systems, preferable at a complex organisation with multiple country offices/business units.  Additional experience working with offices/partners in/on conflict affected contexts is highly desirable.

Roles and responsibilities: 

Plan and carry out internal audits

• Draw up a yearly Internal Audit Plan based on key risks and an assessment of audit needs and agree it with the CEO in consultation with the Director of Finance and Operations and Director of Policy and Programmes.
• Carry out internal audit assignments across departments, projects, and programmes to assess compliance with financial policies, donor agreements, and statutory regulations, including negotiating terms of reference with relevant system/area owners, preparing reports, presenting the findings to the Senior Leadership, and following up on recommendations.
• Review financial transactions and accounting records, including data from SUN, to ensure accuracy and integrity.
• Support necessary pre-audit preparation work related to external audits (both statutory and project audit) and assist the teams in ensuring smooth audit. 
• Maintain the organisation’s register of grant and project audits, ensuring that audit findings recommendations are clearly documented and shared.
• Monitor the implementation of these recommendations and follow up on corrective actions to ensure timely and effective solution.
• Carry out special investigations, as required by the Saferworld CEO or Senior Operational Team (SOT). 

Strengthening organisational systems and risk controls

• Produce an annual review of the overall effectiveness of Saferworld’s systems of internal control and make recommendations and arrangements for identification and management of risks and produce an annual plan to address these areas.
• Report quarterly to the Senior Operational Team (SOT) on the annual review and plan.
• Attend the governance/Board of Trustees Finance and Audit Committee four times a year and produce a report for the meetings, including feeding back on learnings from internal audits carried out.
• The post-holder must maintain independence and objectivity in carrying out audits and investigations. They have direct access to the Board/Audit Committee when necessary.
• Produce quarterly report for the Board meetings.
• Promote a culture of accountability, transparency and continuous improvement across the organisation.

 Key working relationships

• Director of Finance and Operations
• Director of Programmes & Policy
• Head of People
• Regional Directors
• Head of Governance and Operations
• Finance Business Partners
• Country Directors/Managers
• Country Finance Managers
•  

Scope and accountability

Decision making and limits of authority

• Methods of investigation within assigned internal audits, reviews, findings and recommendations to CEO & Director of Finance and Operations
• Key that the Internal Auditor is seen to be able to provide independent advice, guidance and analysis. 

Financial resources

• Financial responsibilities primarily about auditing financial management practices and processes

Other resources

• Audit investigations data and reports, internal audit plan, guidance and tools for supporting effective risk assessment and risk management – works globally
• Contribute to the implementation and effective use of financial systems (works globally)

People management

• Capacity building country finance managers in relation to financial systems and processes.
• Capacity building staff and partners in relation to risk assessment and management

Legal, regulatory and compliance responsibility

•  Key internal role in ensuring compliance with financial policies and procedures (internal) and financial regulations (external), and in identification on risks/noncompliance issues for addressing 

Person specification 

Knowledge

• Excellent understanding of internal audit principles and methods and risk identification and management
• Auditing or accounting professional qualification (e.g. ACCA, CPA, CA, CIMA or Certified Internal Auditor with active membership status) and sound knowledge of accounting procedures, principles and systems
• Good understanding of and experience using SUN system will be an advantage

Experience

• Extensive experience in the internal audit function in a large/medium-sized NGO or similar complex organisation 
• Experience of undertaking a variety of audit related, research/ evaluation and project management work
• Familiarity with donor-funded project audits (FCDO, EU) and related compliance requirements
• Experience in working with programme teams (particularly in different country settings), sharing learning from audits, and supporting implementation of recommendations
• Experience in training or mentoring staff on compliance, internal controls, and financial procedures.

Skills

• Strong analytical and quantitative skills
• Skills to build effective, trusting relationships at all levels of the organisation, and ability to influence senior managers and other stakeholders regarding the importance of effective controls
•  Excellent project management skills with experience in planning, organising and delivering audit assignments Excellent facilitation, negotiation, verbal and written communication skills with the ability to write reports and present complex/sensitive information in an understandable way to a range of audiences
• Solution-oriented, pro-active, flexible, a team-player, and responsive
• Strong interpersonal and team-working skills
• Good IT skills, including in MS word and excel 

Other

• A willingness to promote the work of Saferworld and work collaboratively with others
•  Ability to work in a non-partisan manner, sensitive to differences of ethnicity, religion and gender
•  A commitment to learn and be open to new ideas and approaches
•  Demonstrated commitment to principles of transparency, accountability, and honesty
•  Commitment to and compliance with Saferworld’s safeguarding principles
•  Knowledge of applicable laws, donor regulations and statutory reporting requirements in countries where Saferworld operates

Other requirements

Travel will be required for purposes of capacity building, internal audits and investigations, within country offices

Application process 

To apply:  Apply through our vacancy portal on our Saferworld Jobs website

Upload your CV and a covering letter addressing the person specification and why you feel your experience matches the requirements of the role.

Closing date for applications:  23rd July 2025

Southwark Law Centre is a charity offering free specialist legal advice and representation to individuals in Southwark and beyond. 

Southwark Law Centre

Job Description

Job Title: Operations Manager

Reports to: Executive Director

Salary: NJC Scale SP SP27-31 £41,580 - £44,480 (starting salary dependent on experience)

Hours: Full-Time – 35 hours per week

Main Objectives

· To oversee the smooth running of the Law Centre

· To ensure we have the right systems in place to support staff to work efficiently.  

· To identify opportunities to use tech to support our mission. 

· To lead on data, supporting us to tell our clients’ stories and to demonstrate the transformative nature of our work.

Key Responsibilities

1. IT Coordination

• Oversee the Law Centre’s IT systems to ensure they are secure, efficient, and meet the organisation's needs.
• Manage and develop the Law Centre's case management system to ensure it supports the effective delivery of services and reporting requirements.
• Liaise with external IT providers to coordinate maintenance, updates, and troubleshooting.
• Identify and implement opportunities for digital transformation and improved operational efficiency.
• Complete the annual Cyber Essentials return, ensuring that the organisation maintains the highest level of data security.
• Ensure the Law Centre makes use of the most appropriate and cost effective equipment, systems and software.
• Providing basic training to staff on systems and tools
• Maintain the asset register.
• Maintain the organisation’s IT plan and update it annually

2. Systems

· Lead on our paperless working processes

· Ensure that our Sharepoint site is set up logically and with the correct permissions in place.

· Develop our Sharepoint site in order that it functions as an intranet for sharing information internally.

· Negotiate and manage our contracts with printing providers

· Maintain regular reviews of the systems we’re using, assessing whether they are fit for purpose or not and whether there are alternative products which represent better value for money.

· Manage the organisation’s telephony.

3.  Data and Reporting

• Maintain a clear overview of the data collected by the organisation.
• Prepare reports from the case management system and other data collection tools to feed into reports and funding bids.
• Develop new reports to feed into our billing and accountancy as well as various audits.
• Review and analyse the organisation’s data to understand trends and to assist with service development.
• Play an integral role in using data to communicate the impact of the organisation.

4. Data Protection

· Overall responsibility for the data protection obligations of the organisation.

· Keeping abreast of changes and updates to Data Protection legislation.

· Delivering regular training to staff on Data Protection.

5. Finance and Billing

· Support the finance manager and practice manager by ensuring all systems are optimised for efficiency.

· Liaising with our payroll provider, responsible for running monthly payroll accurately, including keeping track of new starters and leavers.

· Support casework staff with training and technical solutions to allow them to bill files efficiently.

· When needed, to work with the finance manager and practice manager to coordinate regular payment runs. 

· Attendance at regular meetings of the Finance Sub-Committee.

6. Support to Executive Director

• Member of the senior management team, contributing to strategic planning and organisational development.
• Provide operational insights and recommendations to enhance the Law Centre’s performance and service delivery.
• Coordinate and chair regular meetings of the IT Working Group
• Report regularly to the Trustees on operational issues

7. Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements, including health and safety and data protection (GDPR).
• Participate in and ensure the smooth running of the annual Lexcel audit as well as other regular audits.

8. Professional Development

• To attend regular support and supervision and appraisal meetings.
• To keep up-to-date and to meet identified learning and development needs as appropriate.

9. Teamwork and Service Development

• To attend and contribute to staff meetings

• To attend and actively participate in other meetings as required, and to take an active role in the planning and development of the Law Centre.
• To network and liaise with external agencies as agreed.

10. General

• To uphold and promote the Aims and Principles of the Law Centre
• To be available to work outside normal office hours on occasion as required and notified in advance.
• To undertake any other duties that are compatible with the functions of the post.

Person Specification

Essential

• Excellent IT skills with extensive experience working with Excel and other Microsoft Office products as well as database products.
• A minimum of two years experience in a similar role, or relevant transferrable skills.
• Ability to develop, maintain and report on data and compliance records, including the ability to impart information in an understandable way.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Highly organised with the ability to set priorities, meet goals and evaluate processes and results.
• Confident, self reliant, capable of taking the initiative and working autonomously.
• Good attention to detail.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills. 

Desirable

• Experience managing and developing case management systems or similar software.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and supplier relationships effectively.
• Experience in supporting legal or advice services organisations.
• Knowledge of the operational challenges facing community-based organisations.

Please visit our website to download an application pack

Closing date for applications: 28 July 2025 at 9am

Interviews will take place on: 6 August 2025 

Interim Head of Finance & Operations

Career Ready is a social mobility charity that believes that every young person deserves the opportunity to enjoy a rewarding future.

We were founded in 2002 by leading business figures with a mission: to boost social mobility by empowering young people and giving their talents a platform from which to flourish. Since then, we’ve grown in England and Scotland to support young people in areas of need.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced, qualified Finance professional to lead our Finance & Operations function.

About the Role

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer the Interim Head of Finance & Operations leads on and assumes day to day responsibility for providing high quality, strategic financial management for Career Ready.

You will lead on business operations to ensure the ongoing effective functioning of the charity and drive sustainable growth.

The Interim Head of Finance and Operations plays a key role in leading greater organisational efficiency and simplifying processes and will continue the delivery of a project plan reflecting the 2025-30 strategy.

You will play a critical role in driving the increased quality of Career Ready’s offer to our stakeholders in line with our strategy, vision and values.

Member of our SMT, comprising of the CEO, Director for Scotland, Director of Programme and Partnerships and Heads of functions.

This is an interim role to cover a period of maternity leave.

Main responsibilities and accountabilities

· Lead, direct and manage the finance and operations functions, overseeing two direct reports, ensuring they deliver a high-quality service to all internal and external stakeholders and are seen as adding value, in enabling Career Ready to achieve its vision and strategic objectives through its people. 

· Continue the delivery of a project plan reflecting the 2025-30 strategy, ensuring that activities happen at pace, are deadline-driven and achieve a high level of impact.

· Assume overall responsibility for the financial management of Career Ready, working with the SMT to ensure high quality and effective use of charitable funds.

· Input into and review the financial elements of funding applications and ensure that fund accounting processes align with funders’ requirements for project reporting.

· Produce financial reports for various stakeholders, as well as leading on financial modelling.

· Have oversight of all financial and accountancy matters including month end reports, management accounts, cash flow management, compliance, tax liability, presentation of management information and KPIs. Ensure that the CEO and Trustees are provided with accurate, timely information and analysis. 

· Oversee and coordinate the fully managed payroll services with the external bureau for all Career Ready employees and for some internship students (Jun to Aug during the Summer)

· Administration of the Staff Opt-In Pension Scheme, including onboarding new staff (Royal London)

· Act as a role model in our ‘one team’ culture. Lead in the development of efficient working practices across the charity, creating momentum and supporting motivation within the charity. 

· Lead risk management strategies and internal control procedures to minimise the risk of loss, or damage to, Career Ready’s assets. 

· Prepare and submit annual operational budgets and annual accounts to the CEO for review and approval.

· Draft and deliver papers for Trustees and Finance and Fundraising Committee (F&FC) meetings. 

· Attend Board and F&FC meetings to present papers and answer questions related to areas of expertise. 

· Provide day to day line management of the Senior Finance Officers and support their ongoing growth and development.

· Management of organisational governance and compliance activities, including policy management.

· Oversee and manage the organisation’s risk management register and process, with input from SMT.

· Oversee reviews and renewals of all insurance policies that affect the organisation.

· Lead on the compliance of statutory and charity regulatory reporting, giving guidance to colleagues where required.

· Ensure any changes to processes and procedures across the function are clearly documented.

Person Specification

Essential skills and experience

•  Belief and commitment to Career Ready’s mission and values
• Qualified (ACA/ACCA/CIMA/AAT) accountant with at least 5 years’ experience in financial management including budgeting, preferably in the charity sector.
• Significant experience in producing management and financial accounts
• Skilled in financial reporting and producing VAT returns
• Preparing for and ensuring a successful year-end audit, and demonstrable knowledge of UK Charities SORP and other reporting standards
• Experience in budgeting to support strategic decision making.
• Financial dexterity and strong analytical skills.
• Strong IT skills, including advanced MS Excel skills and extensive of using an accounting software, preferably Xero
• Excellent organisational and prioritising skills and ability to work independently and with autonomy
• Strong starter finisher with ability to lead and drive projects
• Knowledge of charity governance and compliance requirements
• Ability to build excellent relationships and have effective engagement with stakeholders
• Good communication skills and ability to communicate financial concepts to non-finance staff
• Attention to detail
• Ability to present financial information to various audiences
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and sensitivity of financial information
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to cope with competing demands to deadlines
• Honest and dependable

Desirable skills and experience

• Experience of leading a team, strong team building skills
• Line management experience
• Experience of using MS Planner or other project management tools
• Genuine interest in the work done by the Charity
• Experience of using a CRM (Salesforce)
• Degree in financial management or accounting

Full details are provided in the candidate pack

Salary and Benefits

Salary: £52,000 to £54,000 FTE (salary will be pro-rata for part time hours)

28-35 hours per week.  Career Ready is committed to supporting condensed/flexible working patterns.

Permanent and remote.  Travel to London required on an occasional basis

You will be rewarded with the following benefits:

· 6% contribution to personal pension plan, subject to 3% employee contribution.

· Annual leave: 27 days per annum plus bank/public holidays (pro rata for part time). The charity is also closed between Christmas and New Year. Career Ready also allows flexible use of some Bank & Public Holidays

· Cycle to Work Scheme

· Access to both our Reward Gateway Portal and an Employee Assistance Programme.

· Flexible working

· Work from home allowance and paid travel expenses.

We regret that Career Ready is unable to offer visa sponsorship and candidates must be able to demonstrate their right to work in the UK. In accordance with our commitment to safeguarding, offers of employment are subject to completion of a DBS check. 

Timetable

Applications close at 9am on Monday 21 July 2025 

Please note that the closing date may be brought forward if we receive strong applications.

This is an interim role to cover a period of maternity leave, with a provisional start date of late September for a handover period.

Who we are

Chefs in Schools is a young, ambitious charity that’s rapidly growing. Our mission is to improve kids' health, through improving school food & food education. Working in areas of high deprivation, we support and train schools and their kitchen teams to serve the best, freshest and tastiest food possible, alongside meaningful food education. We share our learning and resources freely, aiming to inspire and enable others to follow our lead.

We’re backed by some of the biggest names in food and have ambitious targets to ensure every child has access to incredible school food and food education, setting them up for life with the skills and knowledge to feed themselves well.

About you and the role

This is a pivotal role, at a pivotal moment for us. We are entering a critical growth phase, which includes rapidly expanding our own operations and managing significant external partnership. As Head of Finance & Systems, you will be accountable for ensuring we have the right systems and structures in place to grow at pace without detriment to good governance.

The purpose of this role is to lead on our finance strategy, and ensure all of our systems, reporting and processes are helping to drive forward the charity and deliver on our objectives at scale. You will work closely with the Chief Executive and Directors to ensure that financial planning is effective and supported by accurate data analysis. You will report directly to Trustees as required and ensure that the highest standards of transparency and probity are maintained. 

You will be joining the team during a period of growth in the size and complexity of our delivery. We currently have 24 employees and anticipate growing significantly in the next twelve months. You will have a crucial role in shaping our systems and processes to ensure we can scale effectively, both our existing programmes and a new membership-based programme that is in development. We’re looking for an experienced finance professional with an interest in effectively using technology and systems to drive efficiency, without compromising on accuracy or compliance. 

You will oversee all financial administration, ensuring this is carried out proficiently and in line with all legal and regulatory requirements, including ultimate responsibility for ensuring that all statutory filings are made accurately and on time. Your role will also encompass ensuring that we operate within legal & regulatory frameworks and stay up to date with changes in relevant legislation.

The responsibilities, skills and experience listed below are intended to give you an idea of what we need for this role. If you don’t meet every requirement, but feel as though you would be able to work with us to deliver the majority of them, we would urge you to apply anyway. We are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and for us the most important ‘experience’ is passion for our mission. You may be just the right candidate for this, or other roles.  

We want to get to know you at the interview and understand we can do this best if you’re at ease. We’re an inclusive employer and work hard to create a welcoming working environment for everyone, including appointing a neurodiversity champion to help us identify how we can make our work environment work for everyone. If you need adjustments to the interview process please let us know.

As we work with children & young people, an offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and DBS clearance, in line with our safeguarding policy.  

Key responsibilities:

• Developing a comprehensive financial strategy that supports the delivery of the charity’s objectives and activities

• Developing our systems strategy, including reviewing suitability of our current systems (Quickbooks for accountancy, Beacon CRM, PLEO for expenses management, Survey Monkey for data collection etc. ) and ensuring optimal use of systems, maximising automation, and using AI where appropriate.

• Constantly seeking to develop and improve the organisation’s financial systems, policies and procedures to promote dynamic, best practice and up-to-date application of tools, systems and approaches

• Leading and developing the Finance and Office Manager and ensuring effective support from the external book-keeping team.

• Lead on creation of the annual budget, working closely with Directors.

• Advising the Chief Executive, team and Trustees, ensuring that benefits and risks of decisions are fully considered and fit with the overall financial strategy

• Oversee sound financial administration, management and governance across the organisation, ensuring robust financial controls in place and operating effectively.

• Provide leadership and guidance to all things finance related, providing mentoring and support to the team, and coaching on financial awareness. 

• Accountability for monitoring that the organisation’s services are, and will, run to budget, supporting budget holders and reporting promptly on risks 

• Have ultimate oversight of the external audit and production of the statutory accounts, supported in delivery of this by the Finance & Office Manager

• Oversee production of management accounts and bespoke financial reports, including accurate forecasting, incisive analysis and accessible narrative commentary, ensuring decision-makers have the information they need. 

• Forecasting cash flow and managing the treasury position.

• Support the Partnerships & Impact team and Programme Managers with financial inputs to funding proposals and ensure restricted funds are used in compliance with grant conditions.

• Oversight of finance, governance and basic HR administration, supporting the Finance and Office Manager with high profile or complex queries, seeking specialist advice on financial or compliance matters as required

• Ensuring GDPR compliance across the organisation

• Leading an effective risk management process.

• Ensuring the organisation’s compliance with charity law, in accordance with the Charity Commission in England & Wales and all financial reporting requirements.

Skills & experience:

• You have interest and belief in our mission, to improve kids’ health through improving food and food education in schools

• You have full or partial qualification through an accredited accountancy body 

• You have experience in a senior finance role (e.g., Director, Head of) in any sector, and some experience within a finance function in the 3rd sector (in particular familiarity with Charities SORP and experience of administering restricted funds).

• You have experience of audit

• You enjoy a mix of leadership and rolling up sleeves to get hands on 

• You take a pragmatic and dynamic approach to robust financial management

• You can turn complex and dry data, into clear and engaging narrative 

• You have project managed the implementation of new systems (accountancy / CRM / data) and have a good awareness of new technologies

• You are organised, methodical, strong on detail, and able to map out deadlines and plan ahead 

• You are skilled in leading a team and building rapport with people, and strike a balance between being supportive and challenging 

Benefits

You would be joining a friendly, supportive team who works hard but believe in a healthy work/life balance. We were voted one of CODE Hospitality’s happiest places to work in 2024. We seek a diverse range of perspectives, skills, experience and knowledge. Joining a small, collaborative team means you’ll be able to contribute to and draw on various projects and strategic insights.

We offer 33 days of holiday per year including bank holidays, 3 additional office closure days over the Christmas period as well as wellbeing days over the summer school holidays.  We also have a Cycle to Work scheme, hybrid working, enhanced parental leave, and free access to the CODE app for discounted restaurants & hospitality venues. We are committed to developing our team and will support you with relevant training opportunities including £250 towards elective training and development of your choice.

We also offer Bupa Dental Insurance, Income Protection Insurance, as well as access to the Aviva Smart Health Platform which offers health benefits including free rapid access online GP appointments, free counselling and wellbeing support.

Application process

In line with our commitment to ensuring a fair and unbiased recruitment process, we invite candidates to answer a series of questions related to their day-to-day job. Please follow this link to answer the questions and submit your application along with your CV.

We recommend that you develop your answers offline and copy them in when you’re ready to ensure you don’t lose your work if interrupted.

Your answers will go through our sifting process: all answers will be anonymised, randomised and then reviewed by a panel of reviewers. A long list of candidates will then additionally have their CVs reviewed. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a 30 mins online interview. Successful candidates will be invited to attend a second, in-person interview at our office in Brixton, London.

Expected duration of this application process: 7 weeks

First interviews will be held on Thurs 14th Aug.

Second interviews will be held on Weds 20th Aug. 

Are you someone who thrives on making a genuine difference to people’s lives? Do you have experience working in health, social care or the voluntary sector and want to play a vital role in improving how older people access the support they need? If so, we would love to hear from you.

Age UK Bromley & Greenwich is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Care Navigator to join our expanding team in partnership with Oxleas NHS Trust. Based at Memorial Hospital in Woolwich, you will be embedded within a multi-disciplinary team working on the Proactive and Frailty pathways. Your focus will be on supporting older people with complex needs, helping them navigate health and social care systems, and connecting them to relevant services across the community.

This is a key role that sits at the heart of person-centred care. You will attend multi-disciplinary team meetings, work alongside professionals including GPs, case managers and mental health staff, and spend time speaking directly with patients and their families. Your role will be to truly listen, identify what matters most to the individual, and help them take practical steps towards better health, independence and wellbeing.

Key responsibilities include:

• Attending Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) meetings and contributing to holistic care planning

• Working with patients to understand their needs, provide emotional support and signpost to local services

• Liaising with a wide range of professionals across the NHS, social care and voluntary sectors

• Inputting information into systems including RIO and Framework I, with training provided

• Keeping accurate records and contributing to service evaluation and improvement

We are looking for someone who is:

• Experienced in health, social care or voluntary sector settings

• Empathetic and a confident communicator

• Able to build strong relationships with a range of professionals and clients

• Organised, reliable and motivated by positive outcomes for others

• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team

• Passionate about supporting older people to live well and with dignity

This role offers the opportunity to be part of a well-respected local charity with a strong values-led culture. You will be joining a supportive team that values collaboration, creativity and kindness. As a Care Navigator, your work will have a direct impact on people’s lives at a time when they are most vulnerable.

For the full person spec and job description please download the job pack.

Are you methodical, highly organised, great at juggling ten plates and glasses at the same time whilst still solving a problem that hasn’t even arisen yet? Then come and join us at the Mary Ward Settlement as our Access to Services Manager!

You are a proactive, people-focused manager with a passion for delivering exceptional service.  You will lead a high-performing team that ensures a welcoming, inclusive, helpful and efficient experience for all students, staff, and visitors.

In this pivotal role, you will oversee a dynamic advice and guidance team, ensuring that every interaction is informed, supportive and aligned with our commitment to excellence. You will be a ‘go-to’ person who ensures that activity runs smoothly with the right resources and support in place all whilst demonstrating a calm and professional approach.  

You will be joining an organisation who is genuinely warm and welcoming, who thrives on nurturing people and their growth.  You will work closely with staff who are skilled and passionate people who are a pleasure to work with.

We are a multi service charity who offer adult learning, access to free legal advice and community services that work with the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups to build stronger communities.  Based over three sites in Stratford, Southwark and Holborn.

This is a wonderful opportunity for an individual who wants to immerse themselves in a successful, interesting and inspiring organisation. 

We very actively encourage applications that are representative of the diverse communities that we serve. 

Could you lead our Flagship LGBTQI+ specialist mental health service?  Islington Mind have an exciting opportunity to apply for the of role Outcome Senior Team Leader (LGBTQI+ specialist service). Due to the ethos of the project and funding requirements we are seeking a person from the LGBTQI+ community to lead this multifaceted service. Islington Mind has worked alongside volunteers and service users for over 40 years to co-create a unique, supportive and therapeutic LGBTQI+ community, supporting people with mental health difficulties.  This role offers the opportunity to join a well-established, skilled and committed team.  Please see the Job description for the full range of duties and role requirements.  

We offer:

• An inclusive and supportive work environment
• Competitive salary
• 26 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (Pro rata for part time hours)
• A pension scheme
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme

If you are interested, please visit our website, view the full job description and download the following documents:

1. The Monitoring Form

2. Application Form

Background

The Maypole Project supports children and young people with complex medical needs and their families across the UK. Our vision is that all families with a child with complex medical needs will have access to our support from diagnosis, for as long as they need.

Our unique model provides emotional and wellbeing support through counselling and therapy services for parents/carers, siblings and other adults involved in caring for a young person with complex medical needs. We provide counselling and play therapy for children and young people with complex medical needs, a youth club, buddying and activity programmes which are also open to children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The Maypole Project has been providing vital services to families for over 21 years and is in an exciting phase of development. We are recruiting a qualified and experienced Child Therapist to meet the growing demand for support, and to grow and extend our provision to meet the needs of more families who would benefit from our unique model of support.

Overall purpose:

To provide appropriate, professional and responsive therapeutic support to children (the child/ren who have complex medical needs and/or their siblings) in 1:1 sessions through the integration of counselling with therapeutic creative and play skills. 

Role responsibilities:

Children, who have been assessed by an experienced member of the project’s counselling team, and with parental consent, will be referred on to the post holder who will:

· Work to The Maypole Project Model of Support for children and young people, providing therapeutic support through an integration of counselling with therapeutic creative and play with a caseload as agreed, relative to hours at a minimum of 5 clients per 7 hour working day.

• Undertake The Maypole Project mandatory in-house training (20 hours)
• Attend a training update session at least once per annum
• Contact the client’s parent/guardian organising an initial 1:1 meeting with them to talk through the issues their child faces and agree the time, location and frequency of sessions in line with Maypole Support office guidelines/room availability where applicable.

· Set up and clear away the therapy room that has been tailored to each individual client’s needs.

• Attend monthly group supervision (2 hours)
• Complete client notes and The Maypole Project paperwork as required
• Liaise with their Line manager or the Clinical Supervisor in case of questions/difficulties
• Follow The Maypole Project policies and guidelines including staff code of conduct at all times.
• Attend service-wide activities including family activity events and fundraising events

Support:

You will have support from our Children and Young People’s Therapies service manager for clinical oversight and day-to-day issues and a supervisor for Clinical advice/direction.  Attendance at monthly Clinical Supervision is mandatory.

Location:

Initially based at our premises in Orpington with some remote provision and possible travel to schools, hospitals, hospices and clients’ homes.

We are looking to recruit a dedicated and enthusiastic individual to join our Information & Advice team provide information, advice and support to people aged 60 and over, living in Waltham Forest. The purpose of the job is to deliver advice to those housebound or not able to travel to The Hub, so it will involve home visits throughout the Borough. It will include assisting clients to maximize their income through providing benefits calculations, help to complete forms, provide advice resources and some supervision of volunteers. You will have good interpersonal skills, have proficient database skills and enjoy working as part of a team. Experience of benefits advice and another language is desirable.

We will be building our brand, diversifying our income streams and increasing our donors and giving profile. You will manage a small fundraising team and play an important role on our senior management team. You will be experienced in winning large trust and foundation and statutory sector grants, as well as having knowledge around diversifying funds in a not-for-profit context.

Main Responsibilities:

• Building our brand, diversifying income streams, and increasing our donor profile.
• Managing a small fundraising team and playing a key role on our senior management team.
• Developing and delivering fundraising strategies based on our Strategic Plan.
• Overseeing our funding portfolio and supporting the development of individual donors.
• Sourcing and applying for funds to meet strategic priorities.
• Networking with other agencies and stakeholders to promote our work.