Senior business support officer jobs
The the engine room that powers grassroots transformation.
You've mastered the art of making things work smoothly – maybe in charity operations, facilities management, or business support. You know that every compliance checkbox ticked, every system optimised, and every pound saved directly translates into changed lives. You're ready to step up into a role where your attention to detail genuinely matters.
We're looking for a Senior Operations Officer who can keep everything running while keeping people at the centre. You'll be the person who welcomes callers seeking help, negotiates charity discounts with suppliers, coordinates staff onboarding, manages compliance, and ensures our Board can focus on strategy. It's operational excellence meets genuine compassion.
What you'll be doing
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Keep our operations safe and compliant – conduct risk assessments, manage health and safety, coordinate facilities maintenance, and ensure we meet all legal requirements.
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Enable brilliant people to do brilliant work – support HR processes from onboarding to exits, manage DBS checks, coordinate team events, and be the go-to person who solves problems.
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Be the first point of contact for people seeking help – answer calls with empathy, direct clients to appropriate support using your knowledge of local services, and ensure no one leaves Grapevine without assistance.
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Support recruitment and governance – process applications through our system, coordinate Board meetings, and provide key liaison support for trustees.
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Drive continuous improvement – review and enhance internal processes, explore AI and automation opportunities, and negotiate contracts that stretch our resources further.
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Manage the everyday essentials – coordinate post, emails, building access, waste collection, vehicle checks, and the hundred other details that keep a charity functioning.
What we're looking for
We need someone who combines operational excellence with warmth, resourcefulness with reliability, and efficiency with empathy.
You'll need:
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Experience in operations, facilities management, HR administration, or business support – ideally in the charity or public sector.
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Proactive problem-solving skills – you spot issues before they escalate and find creative solutions within tight budgets.
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Excellent organisational abilities and meticulous attention to detail.
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Confidence working independently while knowing when to escalate or collaborate.
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Strong IT skills and willingness to explore tools that improve efficiency.
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Understanding of health and safety regulations and risk assessment processes.
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Experience with HR systems, DBS processes, or recruitment support.
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Familiarity with charity governance and Board support.
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Knowledge of facilities management, including building safety and maintenance coordination.
Why Grapevine?
At Grapevine, we believe people in communities are the answer to the challenges they face – and we work alongside them to build power and create lasting change. For 30 years, we've been a nationally acclaimed example of community-led transformation.
You'll join a values-driven team that trusts you to make decisions, celebrates your initiative, and recognises that behind every operational task is a person we're enabling to change lives. We're high-trust, human-centred, and built on shared accountability. We repay out-of-hours effort with TOIL, cherish diverse lived experience, and never lose sight of the people behind the work.
Our offer:
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25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata)
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8% non-contributory pension (we pay it all)
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Flexible working arrangements
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Employee Assistance Programme
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Supportive culture with continuous learning baked in and real autonomy with genuine support
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A management team role where your voice shapes how we operate
Ready to make operations meaningful?
If you're excited by purpose-led work, comfortable with honest reflection, and believe that systems should serve people (not the other way round), we'd love to hear from you. Apply if you can see yourself as the person who keeps our award-winning work running smoothly while treating every caller, colleague, and compliance requirement with equal care.
Strengthening people, sparking community and shifting power in Coventry and beyond



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for ambitious and strategic Development Manager – Corporate and Philanthropy to lead the growth of our corporate fundraising, build high-value partnerships, and work with our network of senior supporters to unlock transformational opportunities.
With a strong foundation of mid-level corporate partners (typically £5k-£25k) and a skilled Senior Officer in place to manage and grow those relationships, you’ll be free to focus on securing new, higher-value partnerships and support.
The Role:
You’ll lead our corporate new business development identifying and approaching companies aligned with our mission, and converting them into long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships.
You’ll work closely with the Director of Fundraising to cultivate high-net worth individuals and senior volunteers who can introduce us to the right people and help get us in the room.
Working with colleagues across communications, marketing and services, you’ll create professional, pitch-ready presentations and proposals that inspire companies to partner with us – and then deliver those pitches at a senior level, with confidence and clarity.
Key responsibilities:
· Research, Identify and approach new corporate prospects, building a strong pipeline of potential six-figure partners
· Lead on creating bespoke, compelling pitch decks and proposals, working with the communications and Marketing Team to ensure quality and impact.
· Deliver high-level presentations and pitches to senior stakeholders across a range of industries.
· Work with the Director of Fundraising to identify and engage major donors and key contacts who can help unlock introductions and strategic support
· Manage Senior Officer who leads on existing mid-level corporate partnerships.
· Support the growth of the mid-level portfolio and ensure excellent stewardship and reporting for all corporate partners.
· Collaborate with marketing, communications, and service delivery teams to ensure partnerships are meaningful, on-brand, and mutually beneficial.
· Monitor income and pipeline progress, ensuring accurate forecasting and tracking.
What we’re looking for:
· A track record of securing new business or corporate partnerships, ideally in a fundraising CSR setting
· Confident writing and presenting skills, with experience creating professional pitch decks and delivering high-level presentations
· A strategic thinker who can spot opportunities, plan a compelling approach, and close the deal
· Experience collaborating across teams (e.g. Marketing design, service delivery) to shape proposals and deliver joint objectives
· A strong relationship-builder with the credibility to work with senior executives, philanthropists and decision-makers
· Organised, self-starting and passionate about helping families when they need it most
· Line management experience desirable, but not essential
We welcome applications from the commercial sector and those working in CSR, partnerships or business development roles
We will be reviewing applications ongoing so early applications are advised. We may close the advert earlier than advertised.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Please submit your CV along with a covering letter(max 2 pages) explaining how your experience fits the role. More details can be found in the recruitment pack attached.
Closing date: 6 February 2026
We are seeking a leader with a hands-on approach to lead our small team of administrative staff and support our Board of Trustees and members to help shape and implement our strategy for the future. You will manage the day-to-day operations of the organisation, translating the strategy into practice to help the organisation grow and deliver real value to our members.
About Us
ACAT is a charity dedicated to advancing Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) through training, accreditation and the provision of continuous professional development to CAT Therapists. Also, through research and promotion of CAT as a valuable and valued talking therapy.
About you
We are looking for someone who is an experienced leader with a knowledge of and understanding of CAT who is:
A strategic thinker
Able to set, manage and report on budgets
An excellent communicator with a proven track record of implementing change
Why Join ACAT
The opportunity to work with dedicated professionals to develop CAT training and the governance of CAT therapists
30 days annual leave for FTE (Pro Rata)
Flexible working arrangements with both home working and some team-based hours each month at the office in Dorchester, Dorset, and attendance at ad hoc meetings and events in person within the UK from time to time.
This is a permanent contract; part-time flexible 14 hours per week subject to successful completion of a 6-month probationary period.
Closing date: Wednesday 11th February 2026
Human Resources Manager (maternity cover)
Salary: £45,000-£50,000 / year
Location: Our offices are in Toynbee Hall, East London, but we welcome applicants from across the UK who do not wish to relocate. You should be willing to travel to our London office for team and project meetings up to six times per year. Project related travel costs will be reimbursed
Hours: Four to five days a week (flexible – minimum 28 hours/ week). The Young Foundation supports a 4.5 day working week and staff work this, wherever possible (pro rata for those working less than a 35-hour week)
Contract: Up to one year fixed term contract. Start date March 2026
Benefits: 25 days annual leave plus three office closure days between Christmas and New Year. We also provide two wellbeing days per year. Staff are signed up to one of two pension schemes and access a personalised well-being budget through Better Space. All employees also have access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
About The Young Foundation
The Young Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation driving community research and social innovation. We bring communities, organisations and policymakers together to understand the issues people care about and support collective action to improve lives. We involve communities in research and innovate together to inspire positive change.
About the role
We are looking for an experienced HR professional to lead and run the HR function at both a strategic and operational level, providing expert guidance and leadership across the organisation. You will provide high-level support to the Chief Executive and Chief Operating Officer, ensuring the timely and effective delivery of HR services, both internally and with external partners.
This role is particularly suited to a confident, adaptable HR leader who can support and guide the organisation through a period of significant change, including the transition to a new CEO. You will play a key role in shaping organisational culture, embedding change initiatives, and ensuring HR strategies align with business objectives and values.
The successful candidate will combine strong operational HR expertise with strategic insight, acting as a trusted advisor to senior leaders while maintaining high standards of governance, compliance, and employee experience.
About you
We are recruiting an experienced Human Resources Manager with a strong track record of providing strategic HR leadership at a senior level, ideally within the charity or social impact sectors. You should have extensive experience in employee relations, performance management, and organisational development, with the ability to advise senior leaders and resolve complex HR issues with discretion and professionalism.
This role would suit a motivated self-starter with a passion for the work we do, someone who can work independently while also influencing and collaborating with senior teams and trustees. You will have a deep understanding of inclusive recruitment, employment law, payroll, pensions, and HR systems.
You should be a proactive, CIPD Level 7-qualified professional (or equivalent senior-level experience) with the ability to embed equality, diversity, and inclusion into all aspects of HR practice. Strong stakeholder management, strategic thinking, and the ability to turn people insights into actionable organisational improvements are essential.
Process
This is a two-stage application process. The first stage will involve an interview, and the second stage will consist of an interview and a potential task.
First stage interviews will take place w/c 2 February 2026 (online via MS Teams)
Second stage interviews will take place w/c 9 February 2026 (In-person at our office). There might be an opportunity for final candidates to meet the incoming CEO.
The Young Foundation is an equal opportunities employer and as part of our commitment to increasing the diversity of our team we actively encourage people from Black and Ethnic Minority or other under-represented groups to apply for this role. We positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.
You must have the right to live and work in the UK. Applicants who require a work permit in order to take up employment will not be considered.
Longer working lives and ongoing economic transitions are reshaping careers: how we start them, and how we move through them. But too many people remain paid in low-paid, low-quality work – with damaging consequences for them personally, and our economy as a whole. We’re seeking a senior, policy-oriented research leader to help us and our partners generate insights that enable more people to move into and progress through better work.
You’ll have a proven track record in scoping and securing funding for research and influencing activity, with significant autonomy to lead your own programme at L&W. You’ll be supported by committed researchers and managers whom you will coach, lead, and develop—alongside a peer group of Deputy Directors working across other key pillars. We welcome quantitative expertise, but most important are the skills to design and deliver high-quality, impactful research programmes.
You’ll join an organisation with a national reputation for driving policy change—and a friendly, highly capable, delivery-focused team.
Location: London or Leicester. Hybrid working: 40-60% in an L&W office, with the option of working the remainder at home.
Team:Research and Development
Salary:£64,450 -£77,880 per annum (pro rata), dependent on experience and location
Duration:Permanent
Working hours:0.8 to 1 FTE, with flexible working supported (e.g. condensed hours, flexible start and finish times)
Main Purpose
The Deputy Director, Policy and Research (Better Work and Progression) will have overall ownership of the ‘Better Work’ pillar of our strategic plan at L&W: overseeing all projects and activity in this area and generating new work (including developing project ideas and securing funding).
While there is significant scope to shape the ongoing programme of research and impact work, we anticipate that key areas of focus in this area going forward will be: understanding & better supporting career change; understanding and improving policy to increase employer investment in skills; high quality and fair access apprenticeships and technical education; understanding how to better support progression from low pay.
They will be a senior leader for the organization – helping to continuously shape our strategy and the plans we are implementing to deliver it.
Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership and management
- Intellectual leadership of the Better Work pillar: developing and owning policy positions, messages, theory of change and research priorities, and supporting the wider team to feed into and understand them
- Line management of senior and mid-level staff
- Act as a senior leader at L&W – including taking on specific organization-level responsibilities where appropriate
Income
- Write and/or co-ordinate responses to reactive research and evaluation tenders in the areas of employment, better work and progression
- Develop pro-active proposals that will drive change in your area, and respond to the interests of funders and partners
- Build relationships with current and potential funders and research partners
Impact
- Act as an external expert on the issues of better work and progression: writing press quotes, articles and blogs;speaking on platforms
- Building relationships with practitioners, policymakers and partners to improve our insights, and get our recommendations implemented
- Develop appropriate means of tracking impact towards our better work goals, and monitor against them.
Delivery
- Deputy Director/Project Director-level oversight of projects being delivered in your and related areas: supporting project team to shape research plans, deliver sharp insights and manage funder relationships
- Quality Assurance of research proposals and outputs
- Use your research skills and experience to support the wider development of the Learning and Work team
Person Specification
Experience
Experience of developing, overseeing and delivering programmes of policy-relevant research at a high level - Essential
Experience of business development in a policy/research context: developing ideas, writing bids and building relationships with funders- Essential
Experience of building senior-level relationships with external stakeholders for impact and influence -Essential
Track record of delivering national and/or local policy change - Essential
Experience of senior organisational leadership as part of a team - Desirable
Experience of responding to tenders- Desirable
Skills
Advanced research skills (qualitative of quantitative) -Essential
Quantitative skills: experience of using key national research and administrative data sets to generate insights into the labour market -Desirable
Clear and direct written communication style - Essential
Knowledge
Knowledge of, and commitment to, L&W’s charitable aims and purpose.- Essential
Demonstrable knowledge of employment and/or skills policy in the UK - Essential
Demonstrable knowledge in the specific areas of Better Work and/or progression -Desirable
Learning and Work Institute works across the UK. Our work in Wales is led by a Cardiff based team, but all staff are required to follow the guidance set out in our Welsh language scheme when working in Wales.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Keychange is a Christian charity with a proud history of supporting people invulnerable situations for over a century. We believe that everyone has dignity and worth, and that people thrive best in communities where they are known, valued and supported. Across our care homes and housing communities, we seek to provide support that goes beyond compliance and is rooted in compassion, excellence and Christian values.
We are now seeking a Director of Operations to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our services and ensuring that our vision is lived out every day across the organisation.
The role
As Director of Operations, you will be a key member of the senior leadership team, working closely with the CEO and Board to translate strategy into high-quality, sustainable delivery with exciting future developments ahead.
You will provide strategic and operational leadership across 7 care homes and 3 housing communities in the south of England, leading and supporting a talented operations team to deliver safe, effective and person-centred services.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing visible leadership that embeds Keychange’s Christian vision, values and culture across all services
- Leading and overseeing multi-site operations, ensuring consistently high standards of care, safeguarding and support
- Holding accountability for regulatory compliance, quality assurance and service improvement
- Driving operational excellence, innovation and efficiency through effective systems and processes
- Ensuring services are financially sustainable, working closely with finance colleagues on budgets and resources
- Developing, coaching and inspiring senior managers and leaders to perform at their best
This is a senior role with real influence – both on the strategic direction of Keychange and on the lives of hundreds of people we support.
About you
We are looking for a values-led, strategic and credible leader who brings:
- Senior leadership experience within social care, housing, homelessness or a closely related sector
- A proven track record of leading multi-site services and managing senior operational leaders
- Strong experience of working within regulated environments and delivering high-quality, compliant services
- Sound financial and commercial awareness, with experience of managing budgets and resources of a similar scale to Keychange (250 staff across 10 sites)
- A passion for developing people, culture and values-driven practice
- A personal commitment to the Christian faith and active agreement with the Keychange mission, vision and faith basis. (This is a genuine occupational requirement under the Equality Act 2010)
You will be someone who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery, and who leads with integrity, humility and purpose.
What we offer
This is a rare opportunity to take on a senior leadership role where your professional expertise and Christian faith can make a lasting and meaningful difference.
The role involves regular travel across our sites in the south of England with flexibility around base location.
To focus on developing and encouraging community for vulnerable adults by seeking to address the risks in society of increased loneliness.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Overview
We’re looking for a Senior Business Development Officer to join our national Business Development Team. This is an ideal next step for you if you’re an experienced bid writer looking to grow your career in business development, make social impact, and develop your leadership skills. We’d particularly like to hear from people that have experience of writing high-scoring drug and alcohol service bids.
Location: London, Brighton, Manchester or Leeds.
Salary: £43,384.62 − £47,792.23 per year. If you’re based in London, you’ll receive an additional £4,133.14 per year for Inner London Weighting.
Contract: Permanent.
Responsibilities
About the role
Change Grow Live is a health and social care charity. Across the country, we support people to make positive changes in their lives, including around drug and alcohol use, smoking, homelessness and criminal justice.
As a Senior Business Development Officer, you’ll play a lead role in the development and writing of tenders and proposals for a variety of health and social care services. This role offers a great opportunity to learn and develop while using your established skills, and you’ll be encouraged to take on more responsibility as you progress.
This role offers a great opportunity to learn and develop while using your established skills, and you’ll be encouraged to take on more responsibility as you progress, including line management opportunities.
Your day-to-day will include:
- Writing and editing complex and highly weighted bid responses, working to short timeframes
- Project managing the writing of key tenders with support from a Business Development Manager
- Supporting the development of Assistant Business Development Officers and Business Development Officers, with the potential of providing line management
- Working with staff across the organisation and our partners to develop bids that reflect best practice respond to local needs
- Producing and coordinating detailed research for upcoming opportunities, including meeting with subject matter experts, analysing data and collating evidence
- Creating presentations, diagrams and reports
- Participating in and leading reviews of our bid and proposal processes.
About you
We’re looking for candidates with proven experience of writing tenders, proposals or grant applications in health and social care.
You are:
- A highly competent communicator with a successful track record in bid writing, ideally for drug and alcohol treatment or related services
- Experienced in leading smaller bids and proposals
- Able to analyse data and interpret evidence, with good IT and research skills
- Solution-focused, creative and proactive
- Happy to give and receive constructive, challenging feedback
- Collaborative and contribute to a positive culture team
- Ready to work hard to deliver on CGL’s values and mission.
What we offer
You’ll be able to access structured training, development and mentoring as part of a supportive team. There’s a clear progression pathway within the team, from Senior Business Development Officer to Manager, Senior Manager, Deputy Director, and Director. Several of our current Business Development Managers were previously in the Senior Business Development Officer role.
We also offer:
- The option to work from home for some of the week
- Wellbeing support, including an employee assistance programme and an hour each week for wellbeing activities of your choice (find out more here).
We want our workforce to represent the diversity of the people and communities we work with. We pride ourselves on an inclusive and supportive workplace, evidenced through our Investors in People silver status.
We’re happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that you need to be successful. Please let us know in your application or at any stage of the process if you would like to discuss this.
Before you apply
In the application portal, there’s a section called ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’. This is your chance to tell us about why you’re a good fit for this job – we won’t be able to consider your application unless it’s filled in. Please explain how you meet each of the person specification criteria (listed at the end of the job description). Use clear examples of your experience (this link contains some useful guidance). As guidance, written statements should not exceed 1,000 words. You can address multiple criteria together where you think it makes sense.
Interviews will be held 16th – 23rd February 2026 via MS Teams. We’ll also ask shortlisted candidates to complete a written task online during this timeframe, at a time of your choice. We may hold a pre-qualification stage task (e.g. presentation) depending on the number of applicants.
We encourage applications from individuals who may not meet every requirement but are excited about the role. We value lived experience of substance use, homelessness, and/or multiple disadvantages.
We’re a Disability Confident Committed employer. Under our Disability Confident interview scheme, we will offer an interview to disabled candidates where they meet our selection criteria in their application. Some of our roles attract a high volume of applications and in some circumstances where it is not practicable or appropriate, we may limit the number of interviews offered to disabled and non-disabled candidates. Please confirm in the ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’ part of the application if you are applying under this scheme. We will provide reasonable adjustments as needed.
Check the job description and team explainer for more information. Contact Yasmin Gilders to discuss this role further.
What our people say
Holly, Senior Business Development Officer said:
“What are your favourite parts of the job? The amount we learn from bid to bid. No two services are the same and I’m constantly coming across amazing individuals, teams and interventions. Being part of a team that helps share and celebrate great work, and support other services to implement new and exciting initiatives is really rewarding.
How would you describe the team? Helpful, real and full of knowledge. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and is happy to share their skills, knowledge and learning. I’ve never felt like I’ve asked a silly question, and I don’t feel like I must put a on ‘work mask’ every day.
What were your highlights from last year? Becoming a Senior and working across 7 different bids or direct awards last year. It was busy but I learnt so much, made some great connections with people across the organisation and feel excited for 2026.”
Fran, who progressed from this role to Business Development Manager last year:
“How did the role help you progress? The Senior Business Development Officer role sets you up to well to progress into a Business Development Manager role, as you begin to get involved in managing writing teams, reviewing written responses, engaging with Service Managers and Directors in model development and hold line management responsibilities. I was in the Senior Business Development Officer role for just over a year and a half before successfully applying to the Manager role.
How would you describe the team? The Business Development team are incredibly supportive and will give you the opportunity to develop in areas that you’re interested in. My manager supported to me build skills and experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone but enabled me to progress into the Business Development Manager role.
What would you say to someone thinking of applying? Alongside developing your writing skills, this role is a great place to shape your leadership and management skills. If you don’t have line management experience, don’t let this put you off.”
Salary Range (pro rata if part time)
CGL points 39 to 43 (£43,384.61 - £47,792.23)
Interview Date
16/2/2026
Closing Date
8/2/2026
Our mission is to help people change the direction of their lives, grow as individuals, and live life to its full potential.
Overview
We’re looking for a strong bid writer to join our successful national Business Development Team as a Business Development Officer. This is an excellent opportunity to grow your career in business development within a successful team that prioritises social impact, development and progression. We’d particularly like to hear from people that have experience of writing high-scoring drug and alcohol service bids.
Location: London, Brighton, Manchester or Leeds.
Salary: £37,184.91 – £39,891.91 per year. If you’re based in London, you’ll receive an additional £4,133.14 per year - Inner London Weighting.
Contract: Permanent.
Responsibilities
About the role
Change Grow Live is a health and social care charity. Across the country, we support people to make positive changes in their lives, including around drug and alcohol use, smoking, homelessness and criminal justice.
As a Business Development Officer, you’ll play a key part in helping us secure new contracts and deliver high‑quality services for adults, children and young people. You’ll work with colleagues across the organisation to develop excellent written material for bids and proposals. This role offers a great opportunity to learn and develop while using your established skills, and you’ll be encouraged to take on more responsibility as you progress.
Your day-to-day will include:
- Writing and editing multiple complex bid responses within live tenders
- Working with colleagues across the organisation to gather information and evidence
- Project managing smaller bids and proposals with support from a Senior Business Development Officer or Business Development Manager
- Completing online research, analysing data and collating evidence
- Creating presentations, diagrams and reports
- Helping improve how we do things.
About you
We’re looking for candidates with proven experience of writing tenders, proposals or grant applications, or writing in other professional or academic environments, for instance journalism, research or marketing.
You are:
- A highly competent communicator with excellent writing skills
- Able to analyse data and interpret evidence, with good IT and research skills
- Solution-focused, creative and proactive
- Happy to give and receive challenging feedback
- Collaborative and contribute to a positive culture team
- Ready to work hard to deliver on CGL’s values and mission.
What we offer
You’ll be able to access structured training, development and mentoring as part of a supportive team. There’s a clear progression pathway within the team, from Officer to Senior Officer, Manager, Senior Manager, Deputy Director, and Director. Several of our current Seniors and Managers were previously in the Business Development Officer role.
We also offer:
- The option to work from home for some of the week
- Wellbeing support, including an employee assistance programme and an hour each week for wellbeing activities of your choice (find out more here).
We want our workforce to represent the diversity of the people and communities we work with. We pride ourselves on an inclusive and supportive workplace, evidenced through our Investors in People silver status.
We’re happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that you need to be successful. Please let us know in your application or at any stage of the process if you would like to discuss this.
Before you apply
In the application portal, there’s a section called ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’. This is your chance to tell us about why you’re a good fit for this job – we won’t be able to consider your application unless it’s filled in. Please explain how you meet each of the person specification criteria (listed at the end of the job description). Use clear examples of your experience (this link contains some useful guidance). As guidance, written statements should not exceed 1,000 words. You can address multiple criteria together where you think it makes sense.
Interviews will be held 16th – 23rd February 2026 via MS Teams. We’ll also ask shortlisted candidates to complete a written task online during this timeframe, at a time of your choice. We may hold a pre-qualification stage task (e.g. presentation) depending on the number of applicants.
We encourage applications from individuals who may not meet every requirement but are excited about the role. We value lived experience of substance use, homelessness, and/or multiple disadvantages.
We’re a Disability Confident Committed employer. Under our Disability Confident interview scheme, we will offer an interview to disabled candidates where they meet our selection criteria in their application. Some of our roles attract a high volume of applications and in some circumstances where it is not practicable or appropriate, we may limit the number of interviews offered to disabled and non-disabled candidates. Please confirm in the ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’ part of the application if you are applying under this scheme. We will provide reasonable adjustments as needed.
Check the job description and team explainer for more information. You can contact Yasmin Gilders to discuss this role further.
What our people say
Kitty, Business Development Officer:
“What was your route into your current job? I graduated with an English Literature degree in 2019 and started out as an Editorial Assistant in publishing. Furloughed during the pandemic, I took the opportunity to complete a master’s in English Literature before moving into medical communications, where I also worked as an Editorial Assistant. While I enjoyed the work, I wanted a role that allowed me to get more involved in the research and writing, which led me to join CGL as an Assistant Business Development Officer in 2023. After gaining bid writing experience, I started as Business Development Officer in 2024.
What are your favourite parts of the job? I love how varied the job is. One day I might be deep in research, whether that’s desk-based or visiting a service in person, while the next I’m writing and editing responses for a live bid or even creating visuals. No two days are the same, and variety keeps the job exciting.
How would you describe the team? The team is incredibly lovely and supportive. There’s always someone ready to offer help, share advice, or even just have a quick chat, which makes it a really positive and collaborative environment to work in.
What were your highlights from last year? Being part of the team that won the Blackpool contract. We all invested a lot of time and effort into it, and the whole organisation was excited by the outcome.
Is there anything you would say to someone considering applying? Go for it! It’s a fantastic role within a supportive, friendly team, and there’s so much variety and opportunity to learn. If you’re considering applying, you won’t regret it.”
Holly, who progressed from Business Development Officer to Senior Business Development Officer last year:
“What are your favourite parts of this work? The amount we learn from bid to bid. No two services are the same and I’m constantly coming across amazing individuals, teams and interventions. Being part of a team that helps share and celebrate great work, and support other services to implement new and exciting initiatives is really rewarding.
How would you describe the team? Helpful, real and full of knowledge. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and is happy to share their skills, knowledge and learning. I’ve never felt like I’ve asked a silly question, and I don’t feel like I must put a on ‘work mask’.
What were your highlights from last year? Becoming a Senior and working across 7 different bids or direct awards last year. It was busy but I learnt so much, made some great connections with people across the organisation and feel excited for 2026.”
Salary Range (pro rata if part time)
CGL points 33 to 36 (£37,184.90 - £39,891.91)
Interview Date
16/2/2026
Closing Date
8/2/2026
Our mission is to help people change the direction of their lives, grow as individuals, and live life to its full potential.
Overview
We’re looking for an Assistant Business Development Officer (Bid Writer) to join our national Business Development Team. This is a great opportunity for an excellent writer to start or grow your bid writing career in a successful team with progression opportunities.
Location: London, Brighton, Manchester or Leeds.
Salary: £27,861.26 − £32,002.35 per year. If you’re based in London, you’ll receive an additional £4,133.14 per year as Inner London Weighing.
Contract: 12 months fixed term.
Responsibilities
About the role
Change Grow Live is a health and social care charity. Across the country, we support people to make positive changes in their lives, including around drug and alcohol use, smoking, homelessness and criminal justice.
As an Assistant Business Development Officer, you’ll play a key part in helping us secure new contracts and deliver high quality services for adults, children and young people. You’ll support the development of bids and proposals by writing, researching and collaborating with colleagues across the organisation.
Your day-to-day will include:
- Writing and editing bid responses
- Working with colleagues across the organisation and our partner agencies
- Completing online research, analysing data and collating evidence
- Creating presentations, diagrams and reports
- Helping improve how we do things.
This is a developmental role, and you’ll receive ongoing support, guidance and training to help you progress.
About you
We’re looking for excellent writers who share our passion for supporting people to make positive changes in their lives. You don’t need previous experience in business development, but experience in health and social care, writing, sales, research, or data is beneficial.
You are:
- A clear, concise and engaging writer
- Motivated to learn and develop, welcoming feedback
- Collaborative and contribute to a positive culture team
- Curious and analytical
- Solution-focused, creative and proactive
- Ready to work hard to deliver on CGL’s values and mission.
What we offer
You’ll be able to access structured training, development and mentoring as part of a supportive team. There’s a clear progression pathway within the team. We have a great record of people quickly progressing to Business Development Officer and Senior Business Development Officer roles as they take on increased volume, complexity, and leadership across proposals.
We also offer:
- The option to work from home for some of the week
- Wellbeing support, including an employee assistance programme and an hour each week for wellbeing activities of your choice (find out more here).
We want our workforce to represent the diversity of the people and communities we work with. We pride ourselves on an inclusive and supportive workplace, evidenced through our Investors in People silver status.
We’re happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that you need to be successful. Please let us know in your application or at any stage of the process if you would like to discuss this.
Before you apply
In the application portal, there’s a section called ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’. This is your chance to tell us about why you’re a good fit for this job – we won’t be able to consider your application unless it’s filled in. Please explain how you meet each of the person specification criteria (listed at the end of the job description). Use clear examples of your experience (this link contains some useful guidance). As guidance, written statements should not exceed 1,000 words. You can address multiple criteria together where you think it makes sense.
Interviews will be held 16th – 23rd February 2026 via MS Teams. We’ll also ask shortlisted candidates to complete a written task online during this timeframe, at a time of your choice. We may hold a pre-qualification stage task (e.g. presentation) depending on the number of applicants.
We encourage applications from individuals who may not meet every requirement but are excited about the role. We value lived experience of substance use, homelessness, and/or multiple disadvantages.
We’re a Disability Confident Committed employer. Under our Disability Confident interview scheme, we will offer an interview to disabled candidates where they meet our selection criteria in their application. Some of our roles attract a high volume of applications and in some circumstances where it is not practicable or appropriate, we may limit the number of interviews offered to disabled and non-disabled candidates. Please confirm in the ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’ part of the application if you are applying under this scheme. We will provide reasonable adjustments as needed.
Check the job description and team explainer for more information. You can contact Yasmin Gilders to discuss this role further.
What our people say
George, who progressed from Assistant Business Development Officer to Business Development Officer last year:
“What was your route into the team? I came into Business Development after starting out in frontline roles in local authorities and then a housing charity, where I realised I wanted to continue having an impact on people’s lives, but on a bigger scale. The Assistant Business Development Officer role was a perfect progression, and after about a year I successfully applied for a Business Development Officer role. This felt really manageable given the space for development as an Assistant Business Development Officer.
What are your favourite parts of the job? Winning contracts is a really great feeling, especially when I know they’ve been shaped with service users and colleague to make sure we’re designing services that offer the best support to the most people. I also value the constant opportunities to learn, feeling supported in my development, and seeing the decisions I’m involved in having a real impact on people’s lives.
What were your highlights from last year? Our team away day in Liverpool, which was great fun as well as chance to hear from the managers of our new Liverpool service. It was one of the first bids I worked on as an Assistant Business Development Officer, and it was amazing to see our bid come to life, being delivered by a passionate group of people.
What would you say to someone thinking of applying? I’d definitely say go for it, and once you start, embrace how much there is to learn! Make the most of a really knowledgeable and supportive team, of managers who genuinely want you to succeed, and of all the opportunities to try new things and develop new skills.”
Holly, who has progressed from Assistant Business Development Officer to Senior Business Development Officer:
“What was your route into the team? I was a psychology graduate and teacher training drop out! With my experience of working in schools and academic research into young people’s substance use, I started working as an Education Lead for one of CGL’s young person’s services. After a year I applied to join the Business Development Team, wanting to utilise my experience of working frontline and my love of research and writing. I’ve progressed from Assistant to Officer and then Senior Officer since joining the team in 2022.
How would you describe the team? Helpful, real and full of knowledge. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and is happy to share their skills, knowledge and learning. I’ve never felt like I’ve asked a silly question, and I don’t feel like I must put a on ‘work mask’.
What would you say to someone thinking of applying? Not to think they can’t do it just because they don’t have experience in bid writing or business development. It’s more important to be able to demonstrate that they’re a confident professional writer and are really passionate about working in the drug and alcohol support sector.”
Salary Range (pro rata if part time)
CGL points 23 to 28 (£27,861.26 - £32,002.35)
Interview Date
16/2/2026
Closing Date
8/2/2026
Our mission is to help people change the direction of their lives, grow as individuals, and live life to its full potential.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About You
We are seeking a Governance Manager & Executive Assistant to play a pivotal dual role at the heart of our organisation. You will ensure excellent governance across the Board and Committees, while also providing exceptional executive support to our CEO and Senior Management Team.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys variety, responsibility, and meaningful impact. You will be calm under pressure, excellent at building relationships, and meticulous in your approach. You will balance strategic awareness with strong attention to detail, handle sensitive information with absolute discretion, and bring proactive energy to supporting leaders at every level.
In this role, you will be the person who makes sure we run effectively, transparently, and confidently. You will keep our governance on track, support strategic decision-making, and ensure our CEO and Senior Management Team have the structure, information, and support they need to deliver our mission.
If you love combining precision with people skills and you are looking for a position where your organisational capabilities, governance expertise, and ability to make things happen will be truly valued—we’d love to hear from you!
Summary Of The Role
The Governance Manager & Executive Assistant plays a pivotal role in ensuring our organisation operates smoothly, transparently, and in line with best practice. You will lead the coordination of Board and Committee governance, managing agendas, papers, minutes, regulatory compliance, and the maintenance of key governance records. You will also support Board recruitment, induction, and development, and help manage core processes such as the governance audit, risk register, and policy oversight.
Alongside this, you will provide high-level executive support to the CEO and Senior Management Team — managing diaries, coordinating meetings, ensuring effective information flow, and handling confidential matters with professionalism. This role suits someone who is highly organised, proactive, and comfortable managing both detailed governance tasks and fast-paced executive support, enabling senior leaders to focus on delivering our mission.
Main Areas Of Responsibilities:
1. Governance & Compliance Management
- Support the Board and SMT with a complete governance audit and coordinate actions from the resulting governance action plan.
- Support the CEO and SMT with the day-to-day management of Board and Committee business.
- Prepare and manage agendas, papers, and minutes, ensuring all documentation is accurate and circulated within required timeframes.
- Oversee governance compliance, regulatory adherence, and alignment with best practice.
- Maintain up-to-date governance records, statutory filings, and related documentation.
- Support the CEO and SMT with reviewing and maintaining the organisational risk register and coordinating actions.
- Maintain a repository of historic policy versions to support auditing and traceability.
- Support Board recruitment, induction, training, and evaluation processes.
- Facilitate effective communication between the Board, its committees, and SMT.
2. Executive Support
- Provide comprehensive administrative and executive support to the CEO and SMT, including diary management, correspondence handling, travel planning, and meeting organisation.
- Coordinate schedules and support the wider SMT team with document preparation and logistics.
- Manage the flow of information to and from senior leaders, ensuring timely action on priorities.
- Handle confidential matters with discretion and professionalism at all times.
- Comply with Homeless Oxfordshire’s policies and procedures
- Contribute to a positive working environment in which equality and diversity are valued and staff are enabled to do their best.
- Contribute to the work of the broader team.
About Us:
We are an open door for people experiencing homelessness whose lives have been shaped by trauma and disadvantage; providing safety, stability and support when it is needed most. We deliver this support across Oxfordshire by providing a range of accommodation with access to high quality support, offering a safe and welcoming space for people to take control of their own lives. We are an accredited Oxford Living Wage employer, and benefits to the role include: annual leave starting at 26 days (excluding bank holidays), flexible working, enhanced benefits with qualifying service, retail discounts with our Homeless Oxfordshire Benefits Hub, and life assurance up to four times your salary and a £250 bonus if you successfully refer a someone as a new colleague through our Employee Referral Scheme as a thanks from us!
What’s Next: Have a look at the job description to find out more about the role and apply on our website. Please be aware that this role is subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure check and will be undertaken for the successful candidate. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.
We reserve the right to close this advert early if we identify a suitable candidate before the advertised closing date.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the role
You’ll provide full professional business support to our Research directorate. You’ll ensure high quality administration across a broad range of tasks and liaise with various stakeholders across the charity.
You’ll work with colleagues across the business support team to improve our processes and the technology we use to manage our information, team and projects to become more efficient and collaborative
What you'll do
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Provide administrative and practical support, acting as the first point of contact as and when required, responding to common queries or signposting as appropriate
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Coordinate team meetings, circulate agendas and make meeting notes
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Provide support with financial administration tasks such as submitting expense claims, raising purchase orders, processing invoices and responding to requests as needed
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Engage, influence and update a variety of stakeholders at all levels across and at cross-directorate meetings as required
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Support Research Leadership Team and Directorate Team meetings, with agendas and minutes, actions are followed up, and decisions implemented
What you'll bring
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Have a broad understanding of scientific research through a degree or working in a research oriented organisation
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Experience of team administration or supporting a senior executive
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and negotiate when required at all levels internally and externally
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Excellent administration skills, including minute-taking, presentation preparation and a positive, assertive and resilient approach to prioritising and juggling varying pressures and conflicting priorities
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Experience in coordinating multiple projects simultaneously that meet the business requirements with minimal supervision
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Experience of developing and maintaining effective working relationships with senior stakeholders
This is an exciting time for Parkinson’s UK, and we would love you to join us!
Please apply by sending us your CV, together with a detailed supporting statement which will fully demonstrate how you meet all the criteria of the role, as stated in the "What you'll bring" section of the job description.
Interviews for this role will be held on 04 or 09 February 2026, in person at our London office
Anyone can get Parkinson’s. It’s vital that the people who work for Parkinson’s UK are representative of our diverse community. We actively encourage people from all sections of the community to apply, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or religion.
We exist to make every day better, for everybody living with Parkinson’s. Right now.
Reporting to, and working closely with, the Head of Fundraising and Engagement, the Senior Philanthropy and Partnerships Lead will shape and implement innovative strategies, driving growth in philanthropic giving, secure corporate partnerships and obtain critical funding. With a focus on cultivating mutually beneficial, long-term relationships, you’ll craft compelling proposals, develop tailored stewardship plans, and create sponsorship opportunities that inspire ongoing support.
You’ll lead the way in securing multi-year corporate partnerships and nurturing donor relationships to meet ambitious income targets. As a key player in the senior fundraising team, you’ll contribute to strategic planning, represent the charity at events, and champion new approaches to fundraising.
With our newly formed Development Board, the Senior Philanthropy and Partnerships Lead will identify and utilise key networks to grow our philanthropic supporter base across corporate and major donor income streams. With strong writing skills, this person will also craft tailored and compelling corporate proposals and trust and foundation applications.
Who are we looking for?
To support our vision and ensure the achievement of ambitious income targets to support children and families affected by neuroblastoma, we are looking for a strategic and results-driven high-value fundraiser to join our team.
We are particularly keen to speak with interested candidates who enjoy cultivating high-value relationships from scratch and stewarding five- and six-figure corporate partnerships, and/or major donor relationships.
Person specification:
- Demonstrable significant experience working in corporate fundraising (experience in major donor and trusts & foundations fundraising would also be of benefit).
- Strategic thinker with significant experience at a managerial level, developing strategic plans to grow and optimise high-value fundraising.
- A proven record of being results-driven and working to achieve income targets, KPIs and outcomes.
- Proven ability to proactively identify, cultivate and secure new corporate relationships, demonstrate strong new business development acumen and confidence opening new opportunities.
See our Recruitment Pack for the full role description and specification and for information about Solving Kids' Cancer UK.
Location: Home-based within England with regular travel to London and elsewhere in the UK as required
First stage interviews: Thursday 26th February
Second stage interviews: Wednesday 4th March
As a safeguarding charity whose work and practice are underpinned by safeguarding principles to protect children and young people and enhance their welfare, we always work in accordance with legislation, statutory guidance, and best safeguarding practices. All our roles require a basic criminal record check.
Our vision is a future where no child dies of the childhood cancer neuroblastoma or suffers due to the treatment they receive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
*Please get in touch with us via the email in the job pack to access a copy of our Q&A webinar held in mid January*
Our CEO, Daisy Srblin, has served since May 2022, and is expecting to take maternity leave from May 2026. We are looking for an excellent Interim CEO, to steward YCF in her 9-12 months away, lead our team and keep our charity on track.
2026/27 is set to be a busy period for Young Camden Foundation, as we navigate a complex ecosystem for the voluntary sector, embed new projects, and drive forward the objectives of our 2025-28 strategy. This is also a pivotal year for fundraising efforts, as is the case for many in our sector, and maintaining strong leadership on behalf of our dynamic and talented team will also be essential.
We are looking for an experienced Interim CEO, who brings particular proven expertise around fundraising, people and budget management, and reporting, as well as confidence in stakeholder relationships and proven leadership experience.
You will be responsible for a team of 7, reporting to a board of twelve, and managing a budget of around £1.3m. You will be responsible for the effective management and delegation of responsibilities throughout the team, via your three direct line reports. You will be responsible for reporting to funders on a regular basis, who fund everything from YCF’s core operations to our grants and onward projects. You will oversee YCF’s complex functions, including grant giving, membership and training, and youth engagement.
You will lead on YCF’s fundraising goals for 26/27 and beyond, helping to put YCF on a firm and confident footing as we look to the future. You will also lead external engagement work at the charity, ensuring YCF is represented and advocating in high-level spaces in Camden, whether with Camden Council, local Councillors, sector and member leaders, and local businesses.
Please download the full job specification for a complete breakdown of responsibilities and essential skills and experience.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
The job of a CEO is hard to define, especially in a small charity, so the list below is by no means exhaustive, or reflective of all the responsibilities you will undertake in post.
However, these summarise the key areas of responsibility and priority as Interim CEO in the 9-12 month period:
1. Fundraising on behalf of our objectives
2026 is a pivotal fundraising year for YCF, as with so many in the sector. You will lead on our fundraising efforts (including identifying and writing bids) for both core and project funding in this important year, to put YCF on the strongest financial footing possible in delivering our objectives to 2028.
2. Team management and leadership
The YCF team is a dynamic mix of individuals, ranging from longer-serving staff to newer staff. You will effectively lead our people (YCF’s key asset) driving performance by identifying development opportunities, and effectively delegating to get the most out of our team. You will also be called upon to make judgement calls on behalf of the team, when these come up.
3. Stewarding our finances
In our small organisation, the CEO is chiefly responsible for the effective stewardship of our finances. Working closely with our Finance Manager, you will set our 27/28 budget and steward and monitor our performance across both financial years (including around fundraising targets). You will oversee an effective audit process in 2026, and ensure records and invoicing are meticulous and kept up to date.
4. Supporting project management and delivery
While staff members hold responsibility for their work streams, YCF is a small team, and you will have overall responsibility and oversight for all delivery, including two sizeable projects in the 26/27 year (the delivery of the UK Government’s Holiday Food and Activities programme, (HAF) on behalf of the Borough of Camden, and YCF’s new cross-borough programme tackling Serious Youth Violence). You will ensure strong delivery across each workstream, identifying opportunities for development throughout, and stepping in where needed.
5. Ensuring effective communication
YCF has a wide range of stakeholders, including members, funders, partners and many others from our cross section of voluntary, public and private sector partnerships. You will be an effective communicator (verbally and in written form) and able to represent YCF in the spaces needed, including with prospective partners, on strategic boards, and with high-level stakeholders. You will lead the team in our written reporting to funders, guiding the team to harness our data to communicate our impact.
6. Oversee governance
Bringing experience with Board accountability, you will report to the board quarterly, and work closely with the Chair to ensure progress is being driven forward on YCF’s strategic objectives.
[While your closest working senior relationship will be with the Chair, YCF benefits from a very engaged board. As such, the trustees can be available to support you on an on-going or ad-hoc basis. Collectively, they have deep local connections, excellent sector knowledge and expertise in various functional areas such as HR, governance, finance and more.]
PERSON SPECIFICATION
We are looking for the following essential experience in our prospective Interim CEO candidate:
- Successful fundraising experience: You will have proven experience in fundraising in a VCS context, including from Trusts & Foundations, corporate sources, and Local Authorities. You will have direct experience in writing applications, making pitches and so on.
- Proven finance experience: As a proven sector leader, you will have experience managing complex and large organisational budgets. You will be able to demonstrate how you have set and managed budgets in the past, including stewarding budgets to effective use.
- Leadership and team management: You will have experience of leading teams, including in contexts without an internal HR function where these are held by the CEO. You will be well versed in all aspects of team leadership, including managing performance, supporting morale and maintaining YCF’s positive team culture. You will have held the position of Director or CEO before, and have experience reporting to a Board of Trustees, and knowledge of governance arrangements that support a healthy charity.
- Exceptional communication: You will demonstrate proven exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal. You will be well versed in compiling strong reporting to funders and stakeholders, as well as producing high quality reports for Trustees. You will also be an exceptional verbal communicator, representing YCF and the needs of our members in advocacy spaces.
- Project start up and management: While YCF has senior leaders to oversee work delivery, you will bring your own experience in project management, to help support existing and new projects at YCF, namely the Tackling Serious Youth Violence Project, which will begin in 2026.
- A positive attitude: Working in a small charity is tremendously rewarding, but it can be tough to lead a small organisation. You will demonstrate proven maturity in navigating those challenges, while bringing an optimism and positive attitude to your work, including all of the (many) responsibilities that fall outside of the ‘usual’ CEO job description, in a small charity.
We would also ideally be looking for some of the following desirable areas of expertise and experience:
- Working in a youth setting: Our Interim CEO will need to share our passion for a stronger Camden for all children and young people. Ideally you will also bring experience of working in a youth setting or for a youth focused charity in the past, and be familiar with some of the challenges facing children and young people
- Grant making: Our Interim CEO will steward a significant grant-making budget of around £1m per year. Our ideal candidate would bring knowledge of hyper-local grant giving for community led organisations
- Working with and for community groups: Our team works predominantly (though not exclusively) with members who are micro, small and medium sized. Ideally you will be well versed in the unique challenges facing grassroots community VCS organisations. You may bring experience leading a small charity yourself, proving your understanding of the unique leadership challenges in doing so
- Understanding Camden: YCF’s work is unapologetically rooted in our borough, with all its challenges and opportunities. Our ideal candidate brings an understanding of the challenges of living within inner London, particularly for communities facing disadvantage.
WHAT WE OFFER IN RETURN
We firmly believe you’ll be working in one of the best teams in the sector, with a collaborative and supportive culture.
You will be working with a dynamic and enthusiastic team, and will also benefit from regular check-ins with a present and supportive Chair, as well as support from our experienced Board of Trustees. Flexible working is also available, after discussion and agreement with the Chair.
You will also benefit from:
· 25 days of annual leave per year (pro-rata’d for part time employees)
· In addition, your Birthday off (or closest working day) as paid leave
· Access to our Employee Assistance Programme, 360 Wellbeing, including 6 free in-person counselling sessions per year and unlimited 24/7 online and telephone GP consultations
· Training and development opportunities
· Free on-site gym access and access to free creative and fitness classes (and access to on-site showers) as part of our Labs membership
· Access to tea, coffee, biscuits and fruit each day at our office
· Discount on food and drink in Camden Stables Market
Please download the full job description for further information. Pease note the deadline for applications is Sunday 8th February - however the Charity Jobs advert will expire on Thursday 5th February, so please be sure to download this application and details of how to apply before this date.
YCF is a membership organisation, supporting 170+ Camden-based charities and CICs that offer services and support to children and young people.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
NACE is a national education charity focused on evidence-informed school improvement and provision for more able learners, and a challenge for all approach to the wider quality of education for all learners.
We are looking for a Chief Executive to strengthen our voice, grow our membership community, increase demand for NACE resources and services and deepen our impact across the sector.
The Opportunity
As CEO you will be the strategic lead and public face of NACE, building partnerships, amplifying our influence in national conversations, and ensuring our offer continues to deliver clear value for members.
You’ll work closely with a skilled central team and associates, and with a supportive Executive Board, to realise an ambitious growth plan while safeguarding quality and financial sustainability.
Flexible and portfolio working will be welcomed.
What you’ll lead
Profile & influence:
Position NACE as a recognised and authoritative voice in school improvement for more able learners. Through “challenge for all” strategies in curriculum and pedagogy, by securing speaking opportunities, thought-leadership pieces and strategic policy roundtables; build trusted relationships across MATs, system leaders and sector bodies.
Membership growth:
Deliver a clear value proposition and growth strategy that increases recruitment and retention, secures long-term sustainability, and nurtures a strong sense of community among members.
Partnerships & income:
Develop productive alliances (education, charity and commercial) and responsible income streams (e.g., sponsorships, funded programmes) aligned to mission.
Team & operations:
Lead and develop the central team and wider associate network; delegate effectively so you can focus on growth, profile and stakeholder engagement; ensure robust budgeting and prudent stewardship.
What you’ll bring
Sector and system understanding, with credibility to engage senior decision makers and an ability to translate evidence into compelling practice.
Proven ability and track record in scaling reach, membership or audiences through clear propositions, effective marketing/ communications and partnership building.
Excellent communication skills, to include clear, accessible writing and confident presenting for diverse audiences.
Inclusive, collaborative leadership where you develop people, build cohesive teams and work well with trustees; bring sound financial judgement and understand sustainable business models.
What success looks like in year one
Noticeable uplift in membership recruitment and retention, underpinned by a clear value proposition and data-informed improvements to the offer.
Increased national visibility and demand for resources and services through regular sector platforms, strategic partnerships and stronger recognition of NACE’s contribution to school improvement.
A confident, motivated team with clear roles and delegated operational leadership, enabling you to concentrate on external growth and influence.
Please see the full Job description attached
Our commitment to inclusion
We are committed to fair, inclusive and bias-aware recruitment. If you need adjustments at any stage, or the information in a different format, please let us know. We encourage applications from people with diverse backgrounds and career paths; selection is based on evidence against the criteria in the person specification.
NACE is a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee. Consequently, Board members are simultaneously Trustees of the charity and directors of the company. The Memorandum and Articles of Association are the primary governing documents of the charitable company.
If you are interested in applying, please send your CV and an expression of interest by noon on Friday 23rd January, 2026.
Online interviews will take place on the 5th and 6th of February, with in person interviews during the week commencing Monday 16th February.
The interview process will involve current Board members so you will have the opportunity to meet some of the people with whom you could be working in the future.
We look forward to hearing from you.
We believe all young people should have the opportunity to develop their abilities without limits – no matter what barriers to learning they may face
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About SPANA
SPANA (The Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad) is the global charity for the working animals of the world. Since our foundation in 1923, we have worked where they work, to support the welfare of working animals, including horses, donkeys, mules, oxen, dogs and camels.
About this role
The Programmes Quality and Delivery department is a key unit within SPANA’s Global Programmes Directorate (GPD). The team ensures effective oversight of the design and delivery of working animal health and welfare interventions in collaboration with a range of national NGO partners across more than 20 countries in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Central and South America. SPANA is strengthening the GPD to support partners to develop and deliver transformational and sustainable improvements in working animal welfare.
Reporting to a Senior Programmes Manager, the Programmes Officer provides essential grant administration and project management support to a portfolio of partners, ensuring effective oversight across the lifecycle of grants. This involves developing effective working partnerships remotely and identifying risks and issues that need to be escalated. The Programmes Officer works closely with technical colleagues responsible for Monitoring Evaluation Accountability and Learning (MEAL), animal health and welfare, education and behaviour change and the wider organisation (e.g., communications, fundraising, advocacy and policy).
Contract, location and salary
This role is a full-time (34.5 hours per week), permanent role. This is a UK based position, with 1-2 days per month (or more if preferred) worked from SPANA's office in London.
The salary for this role is c.£32,000 subject to skills and experience. Applicants must have the current right to work in the UK.
Further information and how to apply
Please review the job description for full details including a person specification and information on how to apply. The deadline for applications is 23:59 GTM on Sunday 8 February 2026.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.