Senior recruitment officer jobs

We are recruiting a Head of Income and Engagement to provide strategic leadership and vision for two critical functions—Fundraising and Marketing & Communications—bringing them together into a unified, high-performing team. This role focuses on shaping strategy, building external relationships, and driving organisational growth through income generation and brand engagement, rather than day-to-day operational management.

You will set the direction for attracting significant funding, particularly through corporate partnerships, while strengthening what PAPYRUS already does well:

• Securing grants and trusts funding
• Harnessing the passion of our large, committed supporter base - including bereaved families and others who raise voluntary income for us

In a challenging financial climate, you will lead efforts to grow these income streams and maintain a strong, values-driven presence across press, social media, and broadcast channels. The role requires influence, innovation, and the ability to inspire all managers and staff, as well as external stakeholders.

Please visit the careers site for the full job description and person specification for the role.

Salary: £58,523 per annum (Scale SCP 46) progressing by increments to £62,852 per annum (Scale SCP 49)

Hours: 36 hours per week Location: Remote with regular travel across the UK

Contract: Permanent 

Benefits: You will receive 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time workers), hybrid and flexible working arrangements, an attractive pension scheme, Simply Health membership, enhanced sick pay and enhanced parental pay. Please visit our website for more details.

Closing date: midnight on 22nd February 2026

We reserve the right to close the vacancy earlier if we receive sufficient applications so, please submit your application as soon as possible.

PAPYRUS is committed to the principle of equal opportunity in employment, and its recruitment policies are designed to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender re-assignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

PAPYRUS is committed to safeguarding all children, young people and adults at risk that interact with the organisation. The organisation recognises its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of these vulnerable groups by a commitment to procedures to protect them. The charity expects all staff and volunteers to fully support and promote these commitments.

This is a practical, hands-on leadership role at the heart of Richmond CVS’s work with local charities and community groups. The postholder will lead our support to voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations across the borough – helping them to grow stronger and more sustainable.

The main focus of the role is to strengthen the fundraising skills and income generation of local organisations, alongside providing high-quality advice on governance, planning and strategy. The role requires curiosity, creativity and strong problem-solving skills to help organisations find practical solutions to real-world challenges.

Richmond CVS already works with a range of experienced consultants and trainers and has an established suite of training resources. The postholder is not expected to be an expert in every aspect of charity management. A key part of the role is to coordinate and facilitate this support, drawing on specialist expertise where needed, while providing direct advice particularly in relation to fundraising and the fundamentals of good governance.

Working with a small, passionate team, you will deliver support, facilitate learning and manage projects that make a real difference to grassroots groups.

Key Responsibilities

Organisational Support 

· Provide practical tailored advice and support to VCSE organisations on governance, fundraising, income generation, and strategic planning.

· Help groups to identify funding opportunities and develop strong, realistic funding applications 

· Support organisations to become more sustainable and resilient 

· Develop clear resources, toolkits and guidance 

· Ensure all support is inclusive and accessible 

Training & Events

· Oversee and coordinate a high-quality programme of training and learning opportunities 

· Work with an established network of external trainers and consultants to deliver specialist training 

· Facilitate meetings, workshops and network events where appropriate 

· Develop new learning opportunities based on emerging needs 

· Maintain and develop existing Richmond CVS training materials and resources 

· Promote peer learning and collaboration across the sector 

Project & Programme Management

· Lead and manage capacity building projects from start to finish 

· Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and to agreed outcomes 

· Monitor and evaluate impact and produce reports for funders 

· Oversee external consultants and specialist support ensuring quality and consistency

· Identify opportunities for new funded projects 

Leadership & Team Management

· Lead and support a small, committed team 

· Coordinate workplans and priorities 

· Provide supervision, support and development for staff 

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

· Build strong working relationships with Richmond Council, the NHS and other partners 

· Represent Richmond CVS at meetings and networks 

· Facilitate networking and collaboration across the VCSE sector

· Encourage digital skills and innovation across the sector 

Income Generation & Operations 

· Lead on income generation for capacity building work 

· Contribute to funding bids and proposals 

· Support budget planning and financial monitoring 

· Ensure compliance with organisational policies and procedures 

PERSON SPECIFICATION 

Essential Criteria 

Experience & Knowledge 

· Significant experience of working within the VCSE sector 

· Strong practical experience of fundraising and bid writing 

· Experience of helping organisations improve income generation and sustainability 

· Experience of managing or supervising staff or volunteers 

· Experience of developing, coordinating or facilitating training and learning opportunities 

· Good understanding of the principles of charity governance and good management practice 

· Confidence in using digital tools to support organisations 

 Skills & Abilities 

· Excellent communication and presentation skills 

· Strong problem-solving skills and a solutions-focused approach 

· Curiosity and a genuine interest in understanding organisational needs 

· Ability to build positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders 

· Ability to recognise when specialist expertise is needed and work effectively with external trainers and consultants 

· Strong organisational and time management skills 

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines 

· Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion 

 Desirable Criteria

· Knowledge of the Richmond upon Thames VCSE sector 

· Experience of working with local authorities or the NHS 

· Experience of grant assessment or management 

· Understanding of charity law

· Experience of hybrid working environments and flexible team management 

· Relevant qualification in fundraising, charity or project management 

 Personal Qualities 

· Curious and keen to learn 

· Resourceful and solution-focused 

· Approachable and supportive 

· Passionate about the VCSE sector 

· Flexible and willing to get involved where needed 

Would you like to join a unique, high-impact, award-winning national charity transforming women's lives? 

Working Chance is the UK’s only employment charity exclusively supporting women with criminal convictions. We help women build confidence and self-worth, develop employability skills, and ultimately secure employment, education or training.

Every day we change women's lives, helping them to flourish and fulfil their potential. We work with employers across England and Wales, persuading them of the benefits of hiring people with convictions and we work with government to advocate for policy changes that will help women who experience the criminal justice system.

We’re entering an exciting period of growth and ambition, with a new three-year strategy in development. To help us reach more women and deepen our impact, we are expanding our fundraising team and diversifying our income streams. 

You can find out lots more about the role and the charity - including the job description and person specification - in the downloadable recruitment pack below. 

If you think this might be the opportunity you've been looking for, we'd love to hear from you! 

​How to apply

After reading the recruitment pack, please apply via CharityJob by submitting an up-to-date CV and a supporting statement of no more than two sides of A4 which should include how you meet the criteria in the person specification, and demonstrate why you would be a great fit for this role.

• Closing date: 9am, Monday 23 February 2026

• Interviews: Monday 9 March 2026   

Global Financial Controller | £80,000 - £100,000 + Benefits | London Hybrid | Permanent

For a large, global NGO, we are recruiting a Global Financial Controller. Reporting to the Global CFO, the Global FInancial Controller will join during a period of transformation to lead the development and delivery of financial systems, processes and controls supporting global operations, drive compliance, and enable informed decision-making. This is a key leadership role which will have strategic oversight of global transactions, and audits, procurement, finance systems and compliance. The Global Financial Controller will shape and implement the global financial framework, and will maintain first-class governance, transparency, and accountability.

Main Duties:

• Design and lead improvements for the generation of timely and accurate year-end statutory financial statements
• Influence and oversee implementation of external and internal audit processes, and lead the global responses to audit requests
• Support the Global CFO with preparation of Board and Trustee reports
• Design and manage financial systems for the management of global transactions, and timesheet management systems
• Design and manage accounting systems to consolidate accounts for the Charity Group
• Oversee and implement systems and processes to ensure compliance with UK VAT, PAYE and Gift Aid
• Oversee all Statutory Reporting and Compliance, including requirements of the UK Charities Commission, HMRC, and US IRS and Donors.
• Design and implement procurement policies, and vendor management solutions
• Review and update all policies and procedures relating to SORP guidelines, financial frameworks, processes and systems across financial strategy, internal resources and donor requirements
• Work with the Director of FP&A and Global Donor Reporting Manager on budgeting processes
• Design and oversee robust month-end and year-end closure procedures
• Design and oversee implementation of treasury and investment management systems, and risk-based forex management systems
• Review and sign-off monthly payroll transactions ensure compliance with HMRC.
• Lead, motivate and manage a team of highly performing staff, and champion change across the team and the adoption of new ways of working

Person Specification:

• Qualified Accountant, ideally with strong knowledge of UK Charities Commission, SORP, and other statutory requirements including Charities VAT
• Experience or change, transformation, and turnaround
• Ideally, strong experience of withing across the NGO and Charity sector, ideally with an international and global footprint
• Experience of working with global systems and processes including multicurrency
• Ideally, restricted and unrestricted funding experience
• Strong leadership skills - both with direct reports and wider indirect stakeholder groups

________

As an employer, we are committed to ensuring the representation of people from all backgrounds regardless of their gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, religion, ethnicity, age, neurodiversity, disability status, or any other aspect which makes them unique. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply and would encourage you to let us know if there are steps, we can take to ensure that your recruitment process enables you to present yourself in a way that makes you comfortable.

We have been retained by our client, Sale Sharks Foundation, for the recruitment of a new Part-Time, Head of Finance. Sale Sharks Foundation use the power of sport to change lives throughout the North West.  They work with over 21,000 people annually in three areas: Community Inclusion, Education & Rugby Development. 

As Part-Time Head of Finance, you will be a trusted strategic advisor to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team and Trustees, central to ensuring the charity’s financial sustainability, resilience and growth and helping the organisation maximise its impact through clear insight, strong governance and smart financial planning. We are looking for a qualified finance professional to join the senior leadership team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the charity. 

The Role:

•  Acting as a key financial advisor to the CEO, SLT and Trustees
•  Leading budgeting, forecasting and quarterly re-forecasting processes
•  Preparing and presenting monthly management accounts with clear insight and commentary
•  Monitoring cashflow and reserves, advising on risk, investment and long-term sustainability
• Overseeing bookkeeping, reconciliations and debtor management
• Preparing quarterly VAT returns and monthly Gift Aid claims
• Managing restricted, unrestricted and designated funds in line with charity accounting standards
• Ensuring timely month-end close and reporting
• Supporting grant reporting and funder compliance
• Managing invoicing, supplier payments and relationships
• Owning and optimising QuickBooks, with a focus on automation and efficiency
• Ensuring compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House requirements
• Leading audit preparation and working closely with external auditors
• Preparing statutory accounts and corporation tax returns
• Maintaining and improving financial controls, policies and procedures
• Keeping abreast of regulatory changes e.g new SORP framework and advising accordingly

The Person

•  Qualified ACA/CIMA/ACCA finance professional
•  Proven ability to influence at board level
•  Strong technical skills in budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting
•  Excellent verbal and written  communication skills
•  Strategic thinker with a hands on approach
•  Passionate about community impact aligned with Sale Sharks Foundation values
•  Good analytical & problem solving skills
•  Experience working in a charity advantageous

Joining Sale Sharks Foundation offers the opportunity to be part of a passionate team committed to making a difference in the community. This is a hybrid, part-time role (2–3 days per week), offering genuine flexibility and a strong focus on work–life balance. The salary is pro-rated from a full-time equivalent of £50,000–£55,000:
• 2 days (15 hours): £20,000–£22,000
• 3 days (22.5 hours): £30,000–£33,000

A comprehensive benefits package is also on offer, supporting both your professional development and personal wellbeing.

Working for a community-focused charity provides a meaningful career move, where your expertise will directly contribute to impactful work. Please note, all third-party CVs will be forwarded to Bayman Atkinson Smythe Ltd as the exclusively retained consultants for SSF for this role.

Our client is an Independent Charitable Foundation which supports charities and communities in England & Wales working towards a more just and compassionate society.

We are looking to recruit an accomplished Interim Head of Portfolio Management to strengthen governance and drive meaningful change and impact across this broad and established organisation. This is a senior, influential role for someone who combines technical PPM expertise with excellent leadership and a people-driven approach. This is an exciting time of change to be joining the organisation.

This role is offered as a 6-month fixed term contract, ideally working 2 or 3 days in the London Office, with the remainder flexibly from home.

The role

We have developed a Portfolio and Project Management (PPM) Framework blueprint that sets out our future vision for how projects and programmes will be governed, prioritised and delivered.

The Interim Head of PMO will work with the Interim Chief Operating Officer to establish a Portfolio and Project Management Office (PMO) across the organisation. Using the agreed PPM Framework, the postholder will develop the initial portfolio of projects and programmes and support all staff across the Foundation in the adoption of progamme management methodology.

The role will support prioritisation, decision-making and infrastructure support while developing clear, insightful portfolio-level reporting and dashboards. It will also lead and develop high-performing teams, embedding systems and culture change to help move the organisation towards greater portfolio, programme and project maturity and impact. Equity, Diversity and Inclusion will be at the heart of everything they do.

The person

The successful candidate will be an accomplished Senior PPM professional with a proven track record in complex organisational change environments. They will bring strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, will be confident challenging constructively, and comfortable operating at senior leadership and board level. They will combine excellent analytical capability with outstanding written and verbal communication skills and will be a people-focused leader with a strong commitment to development and inclusion. Formal PPM qualifications, experience in the corporate or not-for-profit/ charity sector, change management, PPM systems implementation, coaching or mentoring will all be important for this exciting role.

A proactive and collaborative person with the ability to lead people through extensive culture change, this person will be ready to hit the ground running and deliver on tight deadlines in a calm and organised manner.

As a specialist Recruitment Practice Prospectus are committed to building inclusive and diverse organisations, and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Prospectus invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you in your application.

Safeguarding is a vital part of the Church's Mission of healing, justice, and hope. As a Diocese, we aim to be a beacon of best practice in safeguarding children and adults at risk.

Working hours: 35 Hours per week, with the opportunity for hybrid working and flexible working

Part-time working may be considered for an exceptional candidate, with a minimum of approximately 28 hours per week with one working day being a Monday.

Salary: £36,225 to £38,850 per annum, subject to qualifications and experience

Benefits: We offer a range of benefits including hybrid and flexible working, 11% non-contributory pension scheme, 25 days holiday rising to 29  after five years’ service.

ROLE DUTIES

• To guide and advise parishes on their safeguarding enquiries and referrals.
• Manage, investigate, lead, and conclude designated cases
• To maintain up to date records relating to your designated caseload on the church’s National Safeguarding Case Management System, and the recording of case supervision.
• To form and maintain productive, professional relationships with parishes, especially Parish clergy, Senior clergy, and parish volunteers, particularly the Parish Safeguarding Officers (PSOs).

CRITERIA

• A minimum of two years’ experience of safeguarding children and adults in the voluntary or statutory sector.
• Experience in risk evaluation/assessment relating to offenders/offending behaviour.
• Experience of managing safeguarding situations as part of a caseload.
•  Experience and understanding of safeguarding procedures in relation to children and adults

For more information and to apply please see the job description and application form on the Chelsmford Diocese Website.

Closing Date: 23 February

Interview Date: 6 March 2026

We reserve the right to invite candidates for preliminary interviews.

Please be advised we reserve the right to close the role early and we cannot consider candidates who do not complete and return a completed application form.

Please refer to the CDBF Privacy Policy found on the Chelmsford Diocese website for guidance on how we will process your data.

In the decade to 2030 we aim for 30% of Suffolk to be connected and well looked after for nature, and for 1 in 4 people in Suffolk to be actively helping to make that happen. This role helps build the supporter power to get us there by delivering an excellent membership experience & ensuring our members feel valued, informed and connected to the work of Suffolk Wildlife Trust.

The post holder will take responsibility for the efficient day-to-day administration of the Trust’s membership schemes, using the Charity CRM database to maintain accurate contact & financial records in line with GDPR. This includes processing new, renewing and lapsed memberships, handling payments ( Direct Debits, PayPal & Gift Aid) and providing consistently high-quality communication with members through enquiries, welcome packs, renewal reminders and supporter care.

You’ll also support member growth and retention by helping deliver key supporter journey communications, thanking activity and retention projects, and by liaising with external partners such as the membership recruitment agency. Alongside this, you’ll help co-ordinate membership resources such as welcome packs, leaflets and magazine mail-outs (working with the volunteer delivery network), and contribute to continuous improvement in data quality, reporting and processes to strengthen our systems and supporter relationships.

To succeed in this role, you’ll be committed to Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s mission and bring a proactive, ‘can-do’ approach. You’ll have experience in an administrative, office or customer service role, with strong organisation, attention to detail and a methodical approach to maintaining accurate records.

You’ll be confident using Microsoft 365 and databases/systems with an understanding of GDPR and data protection. You’ll communicate professionally and warmly by phone and in writing, handling confidential information and difficult conversations with sensitivity. Willingness to learn Direct Debits, Gift Aid and charity income processes is essential; charity/membership sector experience is desirable.

This is a maternity cover role to cover a period of maternity leave (up to one year) working 22.5 hours per week over three days (office hours are Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm) based at Brooke House in Ashbocking. There may be opportunity for the role to become a permanent contract. We operate flexible homeworking arrangements where colleagues spend more time working together than homeworking. The starting salary is £14,398.80 per annum pro-rata (FTE £23,998.00).

To apply for this opportunity, please submit an application via our website by 9:00am on Tuesday 17 February 2026. The application process will include uploading a CV and optional cover letter. The interviews are planned for Monday 23 February 2026 at Brooke House. 

Annual leave entitlement starts at 33 days per annum (including Bank Holidays), increasing annually to 38 days plus employees receive an extra day off for their birthday. We offer a 9% employer pension contribution with no employee contribution required, free 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme, free life insurance from day one of employment, free access to a private GP and discounts at high street retailers. Staff can also enjoy a 10% discount in our visitor centre cafes, including retail.

Suffolk Wildlife Trust is committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is welcome. As a conservation charity, we recognise the importance of diversity in both nature and our workforce of staff and volunteers. We strive to ensure that everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute to our vision of “A Wilder Suffolk where nature is thriving and abundant because everyone is doing more to help”.

The Vacancy

Job Title: Head of Fundraising, YMCA Essex

Location: Chelmsford

Salary: £55,000 per annum

Weekly Hours: 35

Reference: YMC1154754

Make a lasting impact with YMCA Essex.
We’re embarking on an exciting journey to redevelop our iconic Victoria Road site — creating a vibrant community space that transforms lives. To make this vision a reality, we’re seeking a dynamic Head of Fundraising to lead the generation of income across multiple streams and help shape the future of our organisation.

About the Role
As Head of Fundraising, you’ll play a pivotal role in delivering YMCA Essex’s income generation strategy, ensuring sustainable and diverse funding for our redevelopment project and wider community initiatives. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, you’ll bring creativity, strategic thinking, and drive to build meaningful partnerships and deliver strong results.

You’ll lead on securing income from a variety of sources including trusts and foundations, corporate partners, major donors, legacies, community fundraising, and social enterprise. With ambitious targets and a clear vision, you’ll identify new opportunities, manage risks, and ensure a healthy return on investment.

This role will also see you collaborate across teams - engaging staff, residents, volunteers and community supporters in our mission. You’ll be a visible and inspiring leader, fostering a culture of energy, growth, and shared purpose.

About You

You are seeking an opportunity where there’s space and scope to build something amazing from the ground up. This means you’ll almost certainly be an experienced fundraiser or income generation professional who thrives on building relationships and achieving results. You’ll combine strategic insight with hands-on delivery and bring a proven track record of meeting ambitious income targets for capital projects.

Key qualities include:

Experience in one or more of the following: trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, major gifts, or community fundraising.

Strong, pragmatic communication and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to engage senior leaders, donors, and partners.

The ability to innovate, plan strategically, and manage competing priorities effectively.

A commitment to YMCA Essex’s core values of Kindness, Fairness, Professionalism, Perseverance, and Joy.

Why Join Us?
At YMCA Essex, we believe in creating opportunities for everyone to thrive. You’ll be joining a passionate, supportive team driven by a shared purpose - to strengthen our community and change lives for the better.

If you’re ready to bring energy, expertise, and vision to this transformative project, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and be part of something extraordinary.

Our recruitment process is anonymised and candidates' names are hidden. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references. They will also be required to complete a safeguarding self-declaration, safeguarding training and undertake a DBS check.

Business Manager

Are you a skilled and compassionate leader with a passion for making a difference in the lives of others? You will have a key role in helping to serve older Christians and in leading a motivated and committed staff team catering to the residents in Bridgemead, Bath.

As a Business Manager, you will play a pivotal role in managing our day-to-day operations, supporting our dedicated staff, and driving our mission to enhance the well-being of those we serve. Find out more about how we care for our residents: https://youtu.be/Po6md7pq7nI

If you are a dynamic professional with a strong background in business management and a heart for caring, we invite you to apply now.

Have a watch here of "What it means for us, to work in a Christian Care Home like ours:" https://youtu.be/uCa1_BtS34w

For more information, please read the job pack

Responsibilities:

• Lead the business performance of the home alongside the Registered Manager, delivering agreed income, occupancy, cost and surplus targets
• Ensure high standards of service, cleanliness and hospitality through effective leadership of housekeeping, catering and maintenance teams
• Work in partnership with the Registered Manager to maintain quality standards, prepare for inspections, and meet regulatory requirements
• Oversee the administration of the home, including staffing, rotas, payroll information, recruitment, training records and compliance
• Contribute to a well-led, positive and values-driven culture, promoting Pilgrims’ Friend Society’s ethos and “The Way We Care”
• Support staff development, wellbeing and morale through effective supervision, appraisal, performance management and engagement
• Manage resident applications, fees, contracts and family communications, ensuring excellent customer care and responsive complaint handling
• Take responsibility for health, safety and compliance matters when on duty, including fire safety and liaison with external bodies
• Oversee property, maintenance and supplier relationships, working with Property Services to ensure the home is safe and well maintained
• Provide visible leadership in the pastoral and spiritual life of the home, supporting devotions, community engagement and relationships with local churches.

Skills/Experience:

• Willing and able to take a lead in maintaining the Christian ethos of the home;
• Management experience in a business setting;
• Comfortable with writing business communications to staff and residents as well as authorities etc;
• Ability to communicate effectively at all levels whilst maintaining confidentiality;
• Ability to lead, motivate and encourage staff to give of their best, and have people-leadership and management experience;
• Able to work under pressure and provide calmness in all situations;
• IT literate ( including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and the Internet);
• Willing to be flexible in the working pattern and are prepared to participate in training and attend relevant staff meetings.

*Applicants must be evangelical Christians (This role has an Occupational Requirement to be filled by a Christian under the provisions of the Equality Act (2010).)

Hours:

40 hours a week, usually worked over 5 days.

“On-call” cover is required on a rotating basis to meet demands. Please get in touch for more information about working patterns. 

Benefits:

• £44,500 to £50,000 per annum
• Relocation support (to be discussed)
• 5 Weeks' paid holiday per year as well as bank and public holidays
• On-going training and support
• Team events
• Pension scheme
• Care Friends referral 
• Medicash
• Perkbox – including an Employee assistance programme.
• Long-standing service rewards
• Birthday rewards

— What our staff say about us: …“It is a friendly and welcoming place to work” … —

We are committed to having a diverse senior management team and we encourage applications from disabled and Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic candidates, as these groups are underrepresented on our senior management team at present.

 Please note: this vacancy may close sooner if sufficient applications have been received so please apply as soon as possible if interested

The Difference is an education charity, founded to change the story on lost learning. Our vision is to see lost learning falling nationally by 2030 and for schools to be better equipped to support all children, particularly those most vulnerable.

Leading national policy strategy

As Head of Policy and Public Affairs, you will work closely with the CEO to develop and execute a four-year influencing plan.  Together we’ll aim to shift local and national incentives on inclusion by 2030, which see the national trend of rising suspension and absence begin to fall. 

You will hold relationships with the Department for Education and Ofsted and advise on policy priorities ahead, such as:

• Widening the definition of inclusion beyond special needs, recognising the needs of those young people historically or currently interacting with social services

• Reducing perverse incentives for schools to alter their school roll through admissions and pupil exits

• Expectations for multi-academy trusts in capturing and analysing data on lost learning, including how it disproportionately affects different groups

• Improving local alternative provision eco-systems, to improve outcomes for young people

• National standards for inclusive school practice, at a universal and targeted level

• Professional development standards for school inclusion

Developing implementation expertise in the middle tier

In your first six months, you will advise on the internal development of a new programme for middle tier policy actors: multi-academy trust and local authority leaders.  You will support the Programme team in its design, to plan strategically for the recruitment of trusts and local authorities, and you will plan the research and influencing work which will seek to share their success nationally.

Building the evidence base

In your second six months, you will work with the CEO to build out our research function. Your influencing plan will include how The Difference can learn from the work across our multi-academy trust, local authority and internal AP pioneer partners over the next four years, to develop influential publications. Research work ahead will include publishing sector-facing publications of The Difference’s own research, carried out by our research lead and associates; alongside managing external contractors and internal colleagues to bid for and deliver aligned research disseminating our ideas.

Raising your voice

This is an exciting opportunity for someone committed to inclusive policy change. The Difference has always punched above our weight in national and sector press reach. In post,  you will publish blogs and comment pieces, disseminating our shared ideas.  You will be a prominent voice on inclusion.

The Difference is still a small and growing charity. This means that our work is fast-paced, our roles are broad, and there is a culture of being highly autonomous, reactive and flexible, as the needs of the organisation evolve. If this sounds exciting rather than daunting, then this could be the role and team for you!

The Role
This is an exciting time to join The Difference as we increase our impact, reach more schools, and develop our influencing strategy. As Head of Policy and Public Affairs you will: 

Design and execute an impactful influencing plan 

• Design an influencing plan - Identify via horizon scanning opportunities to influence national policy using open policy windows, or by nudging/creating new ones. 

• Execute an influencing plan - Utilise own assets and assets across the organisation, including the Director team, to deliver against the influencing plan.

• Relationship building - Build highly credible and impactful relationships with a variety of stakeholders who hold power. This will include policy makers in national governments, local government officials, politicians, other third sector organisations and think tanks. 

• Leadership - Play a significant role internally and externally in communicating the organisation’s policy position, raising organisational and own brand.

Build policy capacity and credibility across the organisation

• Policy positions and solutions- Use the concepts, work and experience of The Difference’s programmes to develop new, and refine existing, national policy positions to shift incentives. 

• Thought leadership - Be the organisation’s education policy and political expert. 

• Generating income - Use own and team’s expertise and credibility to generate income via speaking engagements and consultancy to support the organisation’s financial sustainability. 

Person Specification

Essential – We are looking for someone with the following knowledge, experience and skills, though you may be stronger in some areas than others:

• Deep expertise in education policy, particularly on the topic of lost learning and the various policy and political debates, including areas of controversy, surrounding this policy topic. 

• Strategic thinker with a proven track record in identifying policy windows and designing activities that lead to meaningful national policy change. 

• Excellent relationship builder, who brings with them their own network of influential stakeholders and has a plan for building new relationships. Adept at navigating tricky situations and explaining complex, sometimes difficult, messages.

• Expert convener with a strong knowledge of the education sector, including which schools, trusts and local authorities are influential and experience in bringing a variety of perspectives together to generate consensus. 

• Persuasive and clear writing style for publication, including reports, press, blogs and ghost writing for members of the senior leadership team, often based on consensus positions, and designed to communicate key messages for impact. 

• Confidence and credibility in communicating nuanced messages in a contentious landscape, in writing, verbally and in public (e.g. on panels), to raise the profile of The Difference. 

• Strong project manager who can design systems and processes to keep self, team and other stakeholders on task and on time. Experience of designing programmes of work and monitoring their effectiveness. Flexible project management style that can adapt to a changing environment. Confidence in managing a variety of stakeholders and supporting them to deliver on time. 

Desired – You are more likely to be successful in your application if you have one or more of the following: 

• Familiarity with The Difference’s programmatic work, theory and practice. 

• Lived experience or insight into the school experiences of marginalised young people (e.g. those with experience of the care system, mental ill health, special educational needs, exclusion, and racism).

We know that some people, especially those from marginalised backgrounds, may hesitate to apply unless they meet every listed requirement. If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution, we warmly encourage you to apply. 
We actively welcome applications from people whose backgrounds are under-represented in the charity sector, including but not limited to: people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, people with experience in the case system, non-graduates and first-in-family graduates.

YMCA Milton Keynes is at an exciting point in its journey. We are a rapidly developing, values-driven youth charity, supporting young people to belong, contribute and thrive. To help us grow our impact and sustainability, we are looking for an ambitious and creative Head of Income Generation to accelerate our success.

ABOUT THE ROLE: 

As Head of Income Generation, you will provide strategic leadership across a broad and exciting portfolio that includes:

• Commercial income, including HomeGround Café and our on-site meeting and conferencing facilities
• Grants and foundations income
• Corporate partnerships, from local businesses to strategic long-term relationships
• Community support and giving, inspiring people to get involved and give back
• A new alumni programme, engaging former residents, beneficiaries and supporters

You will manage and develop a small, motivated team, work closely with the CEO and Head of Communications & Campaigns, and play a key role in shaping the organisation’s future direction.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR: 

We’re looking for a senior fundraiser, income generator or sales lead who is:

• Ambitious and target-driven, with the ability to turn strategy into results
• Creative and entrepreneurial, excited to test new ideas and approaches
• Highly organised, with excellent prioritisation skills across multiple income streams
• A collaborative leader, who works brilliantly with colleagues and partners
• Values-led, ensuring everything we do reflects who we are as an organisation

You’ll understand how to communicate impact in a way that inspires support, while staying true to a trauma-informed, asset-based approach that puts dignity, strengths and potential first.

Above all, you’ll be motivated by the opportunity to put young people front and centre of income generation – amplifying their voices ethically and authentically, and helping supporters see the difference they can make.

HOW TO APPLY:

Please submit your CV and covering letter by the deadline. 

Please note, we typically start interviewing within two weeks of the job advert going live. We reserve the right to close the job before the deadline based on the volume of applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. 

We believe in equality and inclusion and we welcome job applications from everyone, provided you meet the criteria for the job. 

Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references and undertake a DBS check.

We look forward to hearing from you.

THE VACANCY

Location: London – Hybrid (3 days p/w in office)
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

Director of People & Culture

Are you an accomplished HR leader with extensive international experience? The ITF is looking for a Director of People & Culture to head the department from our London headquarters, overseeing people operations and strategic workforce planning across 12 regional offices globally.

About the Role

As Director of People & Culture, you will lead the full breadth of the People & Culture portfolio, including workforce planning, global employee relations and compliance, payroll, pensions, benefits, recruitment, learning and development, policy development, and diversity, equity & inclusion.

You will set the strategic direction for the P&C team, oversee governance and compliance and financial planning across multiple jurisdictions, and partner closely with the Senior Leadership Team to ensure the department supports organisational goals.

This role requires a balance of strategic insight, operational oversight, and the ability to lead effectively in a complex, unionised, international environment. You will also act as a trusted adviser on employment law, organisational change, and policy development across our global offices.

Key responsibilities include:

Global Workforce Planning:

Lead workforce modelling, resourcing strategies, and financial planning for all established roles, ensuring accurate reporting and alignment with organisational priorities.

HR Operations & Compliance:

Oversee payroll, pensions, benefits, and employee-related financial processes. Ensure compliance with employment legislation across the UK and all regional hubs, maintaining robust HR governance and data integrity.

Employee Relations:

Provide senior oversight on complex global employee relations issues, including disciplinary, grievance, and conflict resolution matters. Liaise with unions, staff committees, and external legal advisers.

Policy Leadership:

Lead policy development in line with evolving legislation and organisational needs, ensuring a strong focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion. Support negotiations with union representatives.

Recruitment & Talent:

Develop global recruitment strategy, champion inclusive and equitable hiring practices, and support managers in delivering high-quality onboarding and talent development.

Change Management:

Lead on organisational change initiatives, including restructures and major transformation projects.

Culture, DEI & Learning:

Champion a diverse and inclusive culture, oversee the learning and development strategy, and ensure an effective performance and development review cycle.

Leadership of the P&C Team:

Provide strategic direction, coaching, and leadership to the P&C team, fostering collaboration, professional growth, and high-quality service delivery.

About You

You’re an accomplished HR leader with a strong record of delivering impactful people strategies in complex, international environments. You combine deep technical knowledge with the strategic capability to influence, shape, and lead across a global organisation.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

Senior HR leadership experience:
A strong track record in leading P&C functions and delivering strategic HR initiatives internationally.

Expert knowledge of employment legislation:
In-depth understanding of UK employment law and the legal frameworks of ITF’s regional hubs, with the ability to anticipate future legislative changes.

Strong employee relations and policy expertise:
Experience supporting unionised environments and developing policies that advance fairness, compliance, and inclusion.

Financial and strategic planning capability:
Experience in workforce costings, HR financial planning, and compensation and benefits strategy on a global scale.

Change leadership skills:
Proven ability to lead organisational change and support leaders and teams through transformation.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills:
Ability to engage confidently with stakeholders at all levels and act with discretion, professionalism, and integrity.

Professional qualifications:
Degree-level education and CIPD Level 7 (or equivalent experience); chartered status desirable.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a global People & Culture function within a values-driven international organisation. You will shape our people strategy, strengthen our culture, and ensure we continue to be a supportive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace for staff around the world.

ur culture, and ensure we continue to be a supportive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace for staff around the world.