Senior innovation executive jobs in edinburgh
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Over the last four years, the current Head of Funding & Partnerships has secured over £10m from trusts, foundations and housing associations to help HACT deliver its charitable purpose. In the next three years, our objective is to increase this amount. We want to hear from you if you believe you can support HACT deliver on our ambition.
ROLE DESCRIPTION
The Head of Funding and Partnershipsis a key member of HACT’s Leadership Team and leads the organisation’s business development, tendering and fundraising function. As part of the management tier, the role is responsible for scaling HACT’s impact across and beyond the housing sector through innovative commercial approaches, strategic fundraising, and exceptional customer relationships.
This position combines fundraising expertise, partnership building, developing and maintaining high-value relationships with funders, partners, and clients, as well as market intelligence. It identifies new opportunities for R&D development, pipeline growth, product sales and tender submissions while managing core business development activities that support HACT’s strategy.
The Head of Funding and Partnerships creates and executes annual fundraising and commercial plans, fosters collaborative relationships across the organisation, and embodies HACT’s values through transparent, supportive leadership. From time to time, the role presents to the Trustee Board and provides strategic advice and leadership to the executive team.
JOB PURPOSE
To lead HACT's fundraising, tendering and business development function, delivering ambitious fundraising targets while providing strategic market insights that drive organisational growth and innovation.
Responsibilities
Strategic fundraising leadership
- Create and deliver a fundraising strategy aligned with HACT's business strategy and ambitious growth target, with annual and multi-year targets
- ·Identify new funding opportunities through market research, relationship building, and strategic intelligence
- Lead the development of high-quality tender responses and proposals
- Maintain a register of frameworks and procurement opportunities aligned to HACT’s strategic priorities
- Oversee the production of high-quality client proposals within agreed deadlines, ensuring compelling cases for support
Partnership building:
- Develop and maintain relationships with corporate sponsors, foundations, and other organisations to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
- Manage existing funder relationships to ensure satisfaction, retention, and growth of funding commitments
- Support cross-sector collaborations, innovation pilots and consortium funding bids.
Market intelligence & business development
- Contribute to organisational strategy development through participation in Leadership Team activities
- Proactively identify collaboration and innovation opportunities, supporting business growth and diversification
- Provide market insights that enable R&D development, supporting innovation and new service creation and market analysis to support pipeline growth in new markets and enhance existing product sales
- Collaborate with colleagues to identify emerging trends and opportunities in the housing and social value sectors
- Contribute to strategic decision-making through robust market intelligence and competitive analysis
Cross-functional collaboration
- Work closely with the Head of Communities and Projects to ensure project delivery meets funder expectations, leading on managing key grant funding relationships
- Work closely with the Head of Marketing to align fundraising and marketing strategies for maximum impact
- Work closely with the Head of Services to create proposals that maximise income opportunities
- Work closely with Head of Customer to identify commercial opportunities and enhance service delivery, using insights form Social Value Insight to strengthen funding propositions.
- Work with the Head of Business Functions to develop commercial pricing and funding models and ensure compliance with due diligence and funder requests.
- Support colleagues across the organisation by providing proposal support, market insights and funding intelligence
Team leadership & operational excellence
- Line manage and develop the Funding and Insights Officer, providing coaching, guidance, and performance management
- Develop and implement Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for proposals and grant applications to ensure consistency and quality
- Establish accessible, reliable management information systems to track performance and inform decision-making
- Ensure efficient processes and systems that support high-quality proposal development, tender submissions and relationship management
- Leverage AI tools and platforms to enhance business development processes
- Champion the adoption of AI-enabled solutions to improve productivity, personalise engagement strategies, and uncover new opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
Strategic leadership & culture
- Actively model HACT's values and behaviours by consistently demonstrating supportive, transparent and collaborative leadership
- Contribute to an inclusive and respectful organisational culture through positive leadership and team engagement
- Lead by example as a key member of HACT's Leadership Team, embodying our values across all internal and external relationships
- Champion cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing to maximise organisational effectiveness
REQUIRED SKILLS
Experience & skills
- Proven track record in senior fundraising roles, with demonstrated success in securing and managing significant grants from charitable foundations, government, and other funding bodies
- Demonstrated success in proposal writing, developing tenders and commercial bids
- Strong background in business development and market research, ideally within the charitable or public sector
- Experience in relationship management with high-value stakeholders and complex funding organisations
- Strong communication, influencing and project management capabilities
- Demonstrated ability to create and deliver strategic fundraising plans aligned with organisational objectives
- Strategic thinking ability combined with practical execution and attention to detail
- Resilience and adaptability in a dynamic funding environment.
- Knowledge of the social housing sector (desirable).
- Ability to identify and apply AI-driven tools to enhance business development activities and using AI to streamline workflows, personalise engagement strategies and uncover new growth opportunities.
Knowledge & understanding
- Deep understanding of the UK funding landscape, including charitable foundations, government funding streams, public procurement frameworks and social investment
- Knowledge of the housing sector, social value, or community development preferred
- Understanding of R&D funding mechanisms and innovation support programmes
- Familiarity with grant management processes and funder compliance requirements
- Knowledge of market research methodologies and competitive intelligence gathering
Personal qualities
- Exceptional relationship-building and networking skills with ability to engage stakeholders at all levels
- Strategic mindset with ability to identify opportunities and translate them into actionable plans
- Strong communication and influencing skills, both written and verbal
- Collaborative leadership style that embodies transparency, respect, and inclusivity
- Excellent project management and prioritisation skills with ability to manage multiple complex workstreams
- Resilience and adaptability in a dynamic funding environment
- Passion for HACT's mission and commitment to social impact in the housing sector
Technical competencies
- Proficiency in CRM systems and database management for relationship tracking (ideally HubSpot or Salesforce)
- Advanced skills in proposal writing, bid development, and presentation creation
- Experience with project management tools and budget management systems
- Understanding of due diligence processes and compliance requirements
- Knowledge of social impact measurement and evaluation frameworks
Desirable requirements
- Professional qualifications in fundraising (IoF membership) or business development
- Experience working in or with housing associations, local authorities, or social housing sector
- Knowledge of social value frameworks and impact investment principles
- Experience in managing EU or international funding programmes
- Understanding of research and development processes in policy or practice areas
JOB ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Leads the successful delivery of strategic fundraising and business development projects, ensuring high-quality outputs, stakeholder engagement, and funder satisfaction.
- Secures project funding through strategic relationship-building, proposal development, and targeted fundraising activities.
- Develops and maintains accessible management information systems to support .
- Implements service level agreements (SLAs) for proposals to ensure consistent quality and timely delivery across grant applications and business development outputs.
- Builds new relationships with charitable funders while sustaining and growing existing partnerships to diversify income streams.
- Embeds HACT’s values through inclusive leadership, fostering a collaborative culture and modelling best practice across the organisation.
Employees are also expected to be flexible in undertaking the duties and responsibilities attached to their post and may be asked to perform other duties that are consistent with the grade, responsibilities, and typical scope of the role. Any additional tasks should remain appropriate to the nature of the post and not extend into unrelated functions or specialisms.
All employees are expected to work in accordance with the organisation’s values and behavioural standards, which include being supportive, transparent, respectful, kind, honest, and collaborative. This means fostering a culture of empathy, openness, integrity, and teamwork in all interactions, and contributing positively to the organisation’s mission and strategic objectives.
ABOUT HACT
Innovation. Collaboration. Insights.
It’s what we’ve always done.
As the charity of the social housing sector, these are the core values that have driven the transformation and development of housing providers for over 60 years.
We believe the provision of housing is about more than just bricks and mortar – it’s about enhancing peoples’ lives.
By partnering with organisations across the housing sector, we drive value for residents and communities through insight-led products and services which encourage innovation and foster collaboration.
This position is currently based remotely with the occasional day in the London office and travel to UK based events as required.
To apply for this role, please share your CV with a one-page cover letter setting out why this role appeals to you and how your skills and experiences meet the key skills points in the job description.
Interviews expected to take place on week commencing the 15th December.
To apply for this role, please share your CV with a one-page cover letter setting out why this role appeals to you and how your skills and experiences meet the key skills points in the job description.
Interviews expected to take place week commencing 15th December.
Registered Charity
21 - 50
To support the social housing sector to unlock the full potential of its social purpose, for the benefit of residents & local communities
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
We are delighted to be partnering with STEM Learning to find their next Head of Fundraising.
Fundraising has developed rapidly for the organisation in recent years, with investment, board-level commitment and a growing team driving success. With strong foundations in place and a portfolio of high-value partnerships across corporate, trust, foundation, and major donor income, they are now poised to scale their strategic influence and deepen their impact.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer and leading a five-strong team, the Head of Fundraising will shape and deliver the long-term fundraising strategy, strengthen the organisation's positioning as a trusted, high-impact partner, and drive sustainable, multi-year income growth that enables transformational change.
As Head of Fundraising, you will:
- Lead the development and delivery of a high-level fundraising strategy, securing multi-year six-figure+ partnerships across corporates, trusts, foundations, major donors and HNWIs
- Manage, develop and inspire a team of 5 direct reports (responsibility for 7), fostering a proactive, collaborative and high-performing culture
- Engage senior stakeholders including the CEO, Chair, Trustees and senior partners to unlock networks and open opportunities
- Represent the organisation at senior-level networking events, conferences and sector forums, influencing decision-makers and strengthening brand positioning
Essential skills and experience:
- A strategic, senior-level fundraiser with a proven track record delivering six-figure, multi-year partnerships from corporates. Experience across trusts, foundations, and/or major donors highly desirable
- A proactive new business mindset, with eagerness to meet with donors and attend events
- Strategic leadership experience, with proven ability to motivate and develop fundraising teams
- An experienced relationship-builder who has used confidence and gravitas to engage CEOs, trustees, C-suite leaders and high-net-worth individuals — and successfuly make compelling asks
STEM Learning offer a sector-leading employee benefits package, which includes 30 days annual leave in addition to bank holidays and up to 15% employer pension contributions.
This is a mostly home-based role, with travel to N.England and London for office time and meetings. There are travel-cost reimbursements available - please discuss.
Detailed briefing notes and full support with CV and cover letter will be provided for suitable applicants.
Please ensure that your CV aligns with the person spec above, or add notes to cover letter option.
Candidates meeting the essential criteria will be invited to an initial briefing and screening call. Full support will be provided with formal application, including cover letter writing.
QuarterFive and our clients know fundraising could better reflect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people the charity sector supports. We encourage individuals with relevant skills and experience to apply for roles regardless of age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief.
Recruitment Agency
6 - 10
Expert recruitment for fundraisers and charities.
Thank you!
Location: Home-based in the UK, within 90 minutes travel of Central London, with occasional national and international travel.
Contract: 2 years with the possibility of extension dependent on continuation of funding. You should be available to start by mid-January 2026.
Reporting to: Executive Director (ED)
Salary: £85,000 - £90,000
Additional benefits: 25 days annual leave plus public holidays (annual leave increasing by 1 extra day for every year’s service up to 30 days total), life assurance and access to an employee assistance programme.
Job description
Overall purpose of role
The Director of Operations and Finance is a pivotal senior leadership role responsible for ensuring WeProtect Global Alliance has robust and highly effective financial management, operational, governance, and risk infrastructure. The Director will provide strategic financial leadership, act as the primary resource for the Board on governance matters and oversee corporate compliance to enable the impactful delivery of the organisation's strategy to protect children from sexual exploitation and abuse online.
We are seeking a highly experienced operational leader who is a proactive and confident decision-maker. You will be an influential SMT member and a trusted advisor to the Executive Director and the Board. You must be able to think strategically and solve problems, translating complex technical requirements (finance, legal, risk) into clear, pragmatic, and achievable goals. You will operate with high ethical standards and integrity, modelling the Alliance's values of Accountability, Respect, and Empowerment across all internal and external relationships.
Key Responsibilities
Corporate Governance, Risk & Compliance
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Corporate Governance: Ensure Alliance governance is efficient, effective and provides the necessary support and oversight to the team to enable delivery of our mission, leading on review and optimisation of our governance structures and management. Act as a key advisor to the Executive Director and Board on all aspects of governance, legal compliance, and statutory obligations (including Dutch Chamber of Commerce and UK Companies House requirements).
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Risk Management: Senior responsible owner of the strategic risk register and proactively monitor and escalate strategic risks, reporting on high-level mitigation strategies to the Board and Finance, Risk and Audit Committee. Liaising with the Deputy Head who will oversee the day-to-day monitoring and reporting of operational risks.
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Internal Control & Audit: Set the strategic standard for the internal control environment. Commission, approve the scope for, and receive final reports on all internal or external governance reviews or audits. Approve all final audit recommendations and plans before presentation to the Board.
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Legal Compliance: Ensure the Alliance is compliant with all relevant UK, Dutch and international laws, managing external legal counsel relationships as needed, including maximising pro-bono support.
Operations and People Management
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Operational Oversight: Provide strategic direction for core operational functions, ensuring the Deputy Head of Operations and Finance delivers effective day-to-day operations including procurement, IT infrastructure, and general administration.
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Human Resources: Lead internal responsibility and the strategic development of the people management function, in liaison with the Executive Director. This includes owning the overarching policy framework, approving major changes to employee benefits, and managing any external HR consultants or support services to ensure all HR policies, recruitment practices, and performance management are compliant. Overseeing the Deputy Head on supporting the implementation of capacity building across the Secretariat.
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Line Management: Directly line manage and mentor the Deputy Head of Operations and Finance, setting clear objectives, managing performance, and supporting professional development. As a member of the SMT, you may also play a key role in matrix managing team members across the organisation.
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Cross-Organisational Leadership: Work collaboratively with the Executive Director and all members of the SMT to foster a culture of high performance, innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement across all functions, including implementation of our organisational Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy and our overall organisational strategy.
Strategic Financial Management & Leadership
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Financial Strategy & Planning: Lead the development and own the ultimate approval of the organisation's financial strategy, ensuring long-term sustainability and resource allocation aligns with strategic objectives. Working closely with the Deputy Head of Operations and Finance on setting the parameters for the annual budgeting cycle and it’s execution.
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Budgeting & Reporting: Produce accurate, timely, and insightful financial reports and analysis for the Executive Director, Senior Management Team (SMT), and the Board/Finance, Risk and Audit Committee, drawing on the preparations of the Deputy Head e.g. forecasting, overseeing annual budgeting cycle and fincnial planning
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Audit & Statutory Compliance: Take ultimate accountability for the annual statutory audit process, ensuring all financial statements are prepared in compliance with relevant legislation and best practice for the Alliance’s Dutch and UK registered entities.
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Systems and Controls: Own and strategically evolve the financial control framework, ensuring robust policies, procedures, and systems are in place. Champion organisation-wide adherence to these standards, working closely with the Deputy Head who will oversee daily compliance and financial reporting accuracy.
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Grant Financial Management: Work with our Head of Development to oversee the financial management and reporting for all restricted and unrestricted grants, ensuring full compliance with donor requirements. Contribute to the organisation’s investment strategy and diversification by assessing financial viability of new funding sources or income models.
Person Specification
Essential Knowledge, Experience, and Skills
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Sector Experience: Proven senior leadership experience (Head of or equivalent) within a non-profit, charity, or international NGO setting.
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Governance & Risk: Extensive experience in developing, implementing and managing corporate governance frameworks, statutory compliance, and organisation-wide risk management in the non-profit sector.
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Legal Expertise: Demonstrable deep experience and knowledge of relevant legal frameworks and regulation relating to the non-profit sector in the UK and Netherlands.
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Financial Expertise: Deep technical knowledge of relevant financial regulations, statutory accounts and audit processes, with proven experience setting the financial strategy and controls framework for an organisation.
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Leadership & Management: Demonstrable track record of successfully leading, managing, and developing a multi-disciplinary team, including the management of senior direct reports.
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Strategic & Communication Skills: Excellent strategic thinking, with the ability to translate complex financial and governance information into clear, accessible reports and advice for senior stakeholders (Executive Director, Policy Board, Finance, Risk and Audit Committee).
Desirable
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Accountancy qualifications
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Experience as a Company Secretary or equivalent governance role.
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Experience in management and oversight of human resources
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Knowledge of international grant financial management and donor compliance requirements (particularly UK and Dutch).
Commitment
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A demonstrable commitment to the values of WeProtect Global Alliance, including safeguarding children and upholding principles of Respect, Accountability, and Empowerment.
See attached document for the full job profile.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Who we’re looking for
We’re looking for an exceptional Director of Fundraising and Communication who will lead our fundraising and communications with vision and purpose, helping us grow our reach, deepen our impact and amplify our voice. You’ll be joining a people-centred, mission-driven team, united by a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference. At a time when vulnerable young people face increasing challenges, our work has never been more urgent. If you’re motivated by impact and driven by purpose, this is a good opportunity to contribute to lasting change.
You will be stepping into a well-established and highly effective organisation, but one that remains energised by innovation and continuous improvement. We actively welcome fresh thinking and new approaches that help us evolve and enhance our work.
What will you do?
This is a pivotal moment to join JET as we build on fourteen years of impact and enter a new chapter in our journey. We have ambitious plans to expand our reach and influence, and we’re seeking someone who can help us strengthen our funding base and sharpen our message.
Reporting directly to the CEO, you will lead and develop our fundraising team, shaping a cross-stream strategy and an integrated communications plan. You’ll be responsible for setting the strategic direction for fundraising, communications and events across the organisation. By doing so you will raise JET’s national profile, grow our supporter base and significantly increase income to support programme expansion.
You’ll bring strong experience across multiple fundraising streams, with a proven track record of securing significant multi-year funding and building lasting relationships with funders—both individuals and organisations. Alongside leading our fundraising efforts, you’ll take ownership of our brand, ensuring clarity and consistency in our messaging, helping partners tell our story, and securing positive media coverage.
You’ll lead the development of campaigns, fundraising and marketing activities, and digital engagement that not only enhance our national profile but also drive supporter engagement and income growth.
This is a home-based role, with travel required to and within the regions where we operate, including attendance at key events.
About you
You will provide strategic leadership across fundraising, communications, marketing and events. Your work will be closely aligned with JET’s five-year strategy, enabling continued growth in funding and programme delivery.
You’ll bring a wealth of experience in leading fundraising and communications at a strategic level, with a strong understanding of the sector and a track record of securing and sustaining major gifts and partnerships. You’ll be adept at managing integrated campaigns across multiple channels and growing income through sustainable funding models.
Your leadership style will be collaborative and empowering, with the ability to build high-performing teams and foster a culture of accountability and innovation. You’ll be a confident communicator, able to inspire and influence, with excellent relationship-building skills and a strategic mindset.
Above all, you’ll be passionate about JET’s mission to empower young people facing adversity. You’ll be a credible ambassador, committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and driven by the desire to make a meaningful difference.
Across the JET team we cultivate a culture of inclusion that respects individual strengths, views, and experiences. We believe that our differences enable us to be a better team – one that makes better decisions, drives innovation, and delivers better outcomes for our young people. We welcome applicants whatever your background and whatever your stage in life, so if you are returning to the workforce after a period away, or even seeking a change of pace, please get in touch.
About the Jon Egging Trust (JET)
At JET, we support vulnerable young people to get back on track and realise their potential; more than 45,000 young people right across the UK to date, and there’s so much more we can do. We’re an organisation that really values its people and we’re immensely proud that our team culture is based on caring and raising each other up.
Our benefits package includes:
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Flexible working
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Enhanced annual leave
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Homeworking allowance
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Occupational pension scheme
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Occupational sickness scheme
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Special paid leave provision
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Enhanced family leave
Download the Candidate Information Pack
Read our Applicant Privacy Notice
Child and adult at risk protection policy statement
The Jon Egging Trust is committed to providing a safe and positive environment for everyone involved in its services and activities. The Trust takes its extended moral and legal duty of care very seriously in relation to children, young people, staff and volunteers. We seek to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children and to protect them from harm or abuse when they engage in any of our activities. JET expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. The suitability of all prospective employees or volunteers will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment.
To apply
Please complete our online application form.
The closing date is 16th November 2025 at [23:30].
Interview Process
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First-round interviews: Monday 24th November (online)
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Meet the team task and fireside chat: Thursday 27th November
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Final interview (in person, London): Monday 1st December
Questions?
Contact us through our website.
Please note:
Due to our anonymised recruitment process, if your application is not shortlisted, we are unable to provide personalised feedback.
To become an employee at JET, you must be able to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK and a satisfactory DBS check – enhanced with children's barred is required for this role. As part of our recruitment process, we want to make clear that we are not able to offer visa sponsorship for this position.
As part of our safer recruitment process, all candidates invited to a final interview will also be required to complete a confidential self-disclosure form, which allows any relevant information to be discussed in line with our safeguarding policy.
We also reserve the right to cancel the final stage of interview on 1st December if candidate does not meet expectations at this stage.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
About us
Humane World for Animals UK is part of a global animal protection organisation working for a better future for animals through advocacy, evidence-driven programmes, innovation, and collaboration. We are building impact for companion animals around the world by supporting national priorities, advancing veterinary and policy expertise, and scaling solutions that improve animal and community wellbeing.
About the position
The Vice President, Companion Animals, International provides strategic leadership for Humane World’s global Companion Animals Center of Expertise (COE), serving as the hub of subject-matter expertise and innovation for the organisation. You will drive the development of global strategies, ensure alignment with organisational priorities and scientific best practice, and support colleagues across country programmes to adapt strategies to local contexts for measurable impact.
This influential role partners closely with programmes, fundraising, advocacy, and external stakeholders to strengthen organisational visibility, secure resources, and scale effective solutions worldwide. It is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced leader who is passionate about strengthening outcomes for companion animals through systems-level change.
Key areas of responsibility:
• Provide overall strategic direction and leadership of the Companion Animals COE and support country-level programme implementation
• Guide the creation and execution of campaigns, programmes, policy efforts, field projects, and publications
• Lead and support a high-performing international team including staff and consultants
• Build and maintain strong partnerships across sectors, representing Humane World within external coalitions and professional platforms
• Work closely with Advancement colleagues to translate programme achievements into compelling donor engagement and fundraising opportunities
• Oversee budgeting, resource allocation, and financial accountability across the COE
• Establish and uphold high medical and programme standards, including development of metrics and impact systems
• Represent Humane World at conferences, with media and public audiences, strengthening global thought leadership
• Promote a positive and inclusive organisational culture across global teams
About you
You are a strategic and influential leader with:
• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline (advanced degree strongly preferred)
• At least 12 years’ experience in advocacy, operations, veterinary medicine, or a related field, including leadership of teams, strategy, and budget management
• Clear success accelerating impact through collaborative global partnerships
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities
• A strong commitment to improving the lives of animals globally
We are searching for an experienced campaigns professional to make a difference and be part of a successful global team. If that’s you, please get in touch!
To apply
Please submit your CV and a covering letter explaining 1. your interest in applying for the role and 2. how your skills meet our requirements via the CharityJob website by 11PM, Sunday 16 November 2025.
Registered Charity
21 - 50
We make bold progress for all animals by working together on the biggest problems—no matter where they are or how deeply entrenched.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Buglife
Director of Transformation
Location: Flexible within the UK
Salary: c£78,000
Contract: 2-year fixed term
Are you a bold, strategic leader ready to drive transformational change for one of the UK’s most impactful conservation charities?
Buglife is the only organisation in Europe dedicated to the conservation of all invertebrates. As they enter a pivotal phase of growth and innovation, Buglife is seeking a Director of Transformation to co-lead their organisation into a new era of impact, influence, and operational excellence.
About the Role
In a dual-leadership model alongside the Director of Conservation, you will define and deliver a Transformational Change Programme that amplifies Buglife’s mission: securing a thriving future for invertebrates as part of nature’s recovery.
You’ll lead strategic initiatives across systems, people, and processes, shaping a roadmap for sustainable growth and innovation. From organisational design to digital transformation, you’ll be the catalyst for change — building capability, cohesion, and resilience across Buglife.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead discovery and strategic direction, assessing internal operations and external opportunities.
- Develop and deliver a transformation roadmap with measurable impact.
- Inspire and manage cross-functional teams including Finance, HR, Communications, Fundraising and Engagement.
- Champion inclusive leadership, emotional intelligence, and organisational cohesion.
- Shape Buglife’s global growth strategy and explore new funding models.
- Overhaul systems and processes to create a more agile, integrated organisation.
What You’ll Bring
- Proven expertise in transformational leadership, business model innovation, and strategic planning.
- Experience engaging Boards and senior stakeholders with clarity and influence.
- Deep understanding of change management methodologies and programme delivery.
- Commercial acumen and entrepreneurial mindset.
- Strong emotional intelligence and collaborative leadership style.
Desirable: Experience in conservation, environmental or science-led sectors; familiarity with digital transformation and international experience or perspective on scaling impact globally.
Why Buglife?
Buglife is a passionate, science-led charity making a real difference for biodiversity. You’ll be joining at a time of exciting change, with the opportunity to shape the organisation’s future and scale its impact globally. Buglife offers a collaborative culture, flexible working, and a chance to lead with purpose.
Ready to lead transformational change for nature’s smallest heroes?
Apply now and help Buglife build a future where invertebrates thrive.
We are partnering with GatenbySanderson on this recruitment. For more information and how to apply, please click on the button below.
Closing date: 28 November 2025
GatenbySanderson Interviews: 8 – 12 December 2025
Buglife Interviews: 6 – 15 January 2026
Buglife is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups in the environmental sector, including people from global majority backgrounds, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ communities.
Thank you!
About Planet Patrol
Our vision is a world where all beings can enjoy our waterways, free from pollution. We are a global community dedicated to placing people-powered environmental data at the heart of decision-making. Through our unique anywhere, anytime, anybody approach to citizen science, we gather critical evidence of water and litter pollution to drive solutions that protect both environmental and human health. Our data and citizen science methods have been featured in academic journals (Stanton, et al., 2022) and media investigations (Channel 4 and ITV), enhancing public and scientific knowledge of litter pollution.
About the role
As Director, you will oversee daily operations, including forecasting and budgeting for the entire organisation (currently c£300K per annum). As such, you will lead on developing a sustainable funding stream for our mission-driven work, ensuring we maintain a 6-month runway at all times. You will build and maintain strong external relationships to help grow and develop the organisation. The Director will provide leadership to a small, remote team (4 x PAYE) and create a happy, sustainable and productive work environment. Most importantly, the Director will ensure objectives are being met - both personal and organisational - to deliver impactful, positive change for our waterways in the UK, and abroad.
About you
The successful candidate will be a strong leader who excels at strategic thinking, with the natural ability to analyse situations and relationships to maximise impact and return on investment. They will have experience in line management, fundraising and financial management. We are seeking candidates who have experience in senior management in a non-profit setting, ideally within the environmental sector but not essential. Critically, you must thrive in a start-up environment and have a can-do attitude to problem solving. You’ll be one of only a handful of employees and a team of excellent freelancers, so being a team player is a must! This is a great opportunity to really shape the organisation and our impact, so if you like having agency and being innovative, Planet Patrol would be a great fit.
Your top qualities as a leader
- Ambitious
- Collaborative
- Agile
- Resilient
- Resourceful
Key Responsibilities
Funding Development + Stakeholder Relationships (40%):
- Significant responsibility for successful contractual negotiations and maintaining a healthy new funding pipeline. Secure six-to-seven figure funding opportunities to provide a sustainable revenue stream for 3+ years.
- Strategic understanding and experience of competitive and fast changing charitable financial landscape.
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with funders and other voluntary sector organisations.
- Ensure we are suitably represented at appropriate meetings, events, conferences, management groups etc. and that issues that impact our work are raised appropriately.
Operational Leadership including Compliance + Budgetary Control (30%):
- Effective leadership driving business operations and strategic targets. Inspire teams to deliver high-quality programmes and foster a culture of creativity and innovation.
- Draw up and monitor budgets, with support from the Founder and Team Leaders, and ensure effective management and use of all resources. Ensure maximum operational efficiency and maintain a six-month runway at all times.
- Work collaboratively with the Founder and Team Leaders to build annual Business Plans and long term strategies for the organisation.
- Ensure compliance across product / project delivery, finance, human resources, IT, legal, health and safety, customer services and facilities management. Ensure that all data is collated and managed in line with data protection requirements.
- Maintain and develop effective human resource systems for the recruitment, management, support, training, and appraisal of staff and volunteers. Ensure systems are in place to monitor and evaluate the work.
Team + Performance Management (30%):
- Build high-performing, committed teams. This includes line managing, coaching, and supporting team members to create a positive, productive work environment.
- Oversee the team to deliver comprehensive planning and reporting.
- Set benchmarks, monitor performance, and develop a culture of continuous improvement.
- Proactively manage the performance of Team Leaders by carrying out inductions, regular accountability meetings, supervisions, and probation reviews, while also setting clear work and development objectives.
Person Specification
The role is for up to 30 hours a week over 4 days - for the right person we would consider fewer hours. If you think you could do the role but do not meet all of the specification points below, we would still like to hear from you.
Essential Experience and Ability
- Senior management experience working within a small charity or Community Interest Company (CIC).
- Track record of driving operational excellence, including organisational finances and resources.
- Experience of line management, team development and performance management.
- Experience of securing sustainable and diverse revenue streams; including multi-year, strategic deals worth six-and-seven figures.
- Proactive approach to risk management and maintaining compliance.
- Experience in a strategic role, including developing organisational strategy and/or developing and overseeing monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
- Experience of working with a range of stakeholders and managing stakeholder relationships.
- Ability to effectively prioritise, manage and oversee programmes of work across the organisation and lead through change.
- Ability to work under own initiative, delegate where appropriate, prioritise work and meet strict deadlines.
- Good general IT skills and appreciation of new platforms that can increase efficiency and effectiveness (Slack, Trello, Canva, Dext, Xero, HubSpot, SenseHR).
- Broad understanding of GDPR and other essential legislation and organisational policies, including use of AI.
- Passionate about the environment and the importance of citizen science.
- A commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion.
- Legal right to work in the UK without visa sponsorship.
What we offer
Planet Patrol values collaboration, innovation, and agility. That’s why we’re proud to be a 4-day week employer. We offer a flexible, remote working environment, paired with regular opportunities to connect as a team. We’re a vibrant, mission-driven non-profit that supports professional growth, alongside wellbeing. We offer a generous annual leave package, your birthdays off and encourage you to get out into nature whenever possible.
Application details
If you believe in the work we’re doing and think you could add something to it then we would love to hear from you.
Please submit your CV, LinkedIn profile and answers to the four questions listed on the application page. We are unable to process applications which are not complete.
Applications close midnight Sunday 23 November.
First stage interviews will be held virtually on Wednesday 26 November.
Second stage interviews will be held in person on Wednesday 3 December.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
We’re excited to recruit our first Major Donors and Partnerships Coordinator to lead on securing and managing key relationships with corporate partners and major donors. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone with proven experience in corporate fundraising and major donor engagement to help shape CLAPA’s high value fundraising strategy from the ground up. If you're passionate about building meaningful partnerships and making a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you.
You will play an active part in shaping and delivering corporate fundraising campaigns and stewardship activities, with a good level of ownership balanced by the support of an experienced income generation team.
As Major Donors and Partnerships Coordinator, you will contribute significantly to diversifying and sustaining CLAPA’s income. With an ambitious Income Generation Strategy in place, this is a timely opportunity to help strengthen CLAPA’s profile in corporate fundraising and partnerships. Building and maintaining strong, long-term relationships with donors and partners will be a core part of your role.
Working in a small and collaborative income generation team, you will need to be organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. This position offers a supportive environment where you can grow your skills while making a meaningful contribution.
The Link to apply is listed in the attached Recruitment Pack or can be accessed via the Redirect to recruiter button.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Delivery Manager (South) £42,500 pro rata
The Role
Are you passionate about creating inclusive spaces where girls can thrive? We're looking for an organised and values-driven Delivery Manager (South) to support the delivery of our groups, trips, residentials and events at GFS. You'll line manage Group Coordinators, ensure operational compliance, champion inclusion, and maintain strong communication with volunteers, groups and external partners across England and Wales.
About Girls Friendly Society
Established in 1875, GFS is one of the oldest UK registered charities working to support girls and young women. We believe in challenging gender inequality by empowering girls and young women. We achieve this by providing groups and opportunities for girls and young women to build friendships, gain confidence, and learn that they are unstoppable. We deliver a programme of activities designed to develop socio-emotional skills such as confidence, self-esteem, emotional wellbeing, and resilience, and recruit and train women volunteers to run those activities in a space designed for girls and young women. We prioritise working in areas of disadvantage.
Why Join Us?
At GFS, we believe in creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where our team can thrive. As part of our organisation, you'll enjoy:
- Remote working with annual in-person opportunities to connect with colleagues
- 25 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays
- Long service leave after two years
- GFS Pension Scheme with 7.5% employer contribution
- We embrace flexible working and support our employees to work in ways that suit their individual circumstances and responsibilities
- 24-hour access to Employee Assistance Programme
- Season ticket loan
- Annual EDI Learning Days
- Study time and personal training budget to support your professional development
Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
GFS is committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those from marginalised communities including Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled people, and those from underrepresented groups.
As part of our commitment to equitable recruitment, we guarantee interviews for candidates from marginalised communities who meet the essential criteria for the role. We are also committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace. If you require any adjustments to support your application or interview, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure an accessible and inclusive process.
Key Dates
-
Closing Date: Noon, Sunday 16th November 2025
-
Interviews: Monday 1st December 2025
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Delivery Manager (North) £42,500 pro rata
The Role
Are you passionate about creating inclusive spaces where girls can thrive? We're looking for an organised and values-driven Delivery Manager (North) to support the delivery of our groups, trips, residentials and events at GFS. You'll line manage Group Coordinators, ensure operational compliance, champion inclusion, and maintain strong communication with volunteers, groups and external partners across England and Wales.
About Girls Friendly Society
Established in 1875, GFS is one of the oldest UK registered charities working to support girls and young women. We believe in challenging gender inequality by empowering girls and young women. We achieve this by providing groups and opportunities for girls and young women to build friendships, gain confidence, and learn that they are unstoppable. We deliver a programme of activities designed to develop socio-emotional skills such as confidence, self-esteem, emotional wellbeing, and resilience, and recruit and train women volunteers to run those activities in a space designed for girls and young women. We prioritise working in areas of disadvantage.
Why Join Us?
At GFS, we believe in creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where our team can thrive. As part of our organisation, you'll enjoy:
- Remote working with annual in-person opportunities to connect with colleagues
- 25 days annual leave (pro rata), plus bank holidays
- Long service leave after two years
- GFS Pension Scheme with 7.5% employer contribution
- We embrace flexible working and support our employees to work in ways that suit their individual circumstances and responsibilities
- 24-hour access to Employee Assistance Programme
- Season ticket loan
- Annual EDI Learning Days
- Study time and personal training budget nto support your professional development
Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
GFS is committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those from marginalised communities including Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled people, and those from underrepresented groups.
As part of our commitment to equitable recruitment, we guarantee interviews for candidates from marginalised communities who meet the essential criteria for the role. We are also committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and in the workplace. If you require any adjustments to support your application or interview, please let us know and we will work with you to ensure an accessible and inclusive process.
Key Dates
-
Closing Date: Noon, Sunday 16th November 2025
-
Interviews: Tuesday 2nd December 2025
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.