Senior research executive jobs in England, london

About us
The Microbiology Society is a membership charity for scientists interested in microbes, their effects, and their practical uses. It has a worldwide membership based in universities, industry, hospitals, research institutes, schools, and other organisations.

Our members have a unique depth and breadth of knowledge about the discipline. The Society’s role is to help unlock and harness the potential of that knowledge.

Our commitment to anyone who studies microbes is “whoever you are, wherever you are, we will amplify your voice”.

About you
The Head of Engagement and Storytelling will develop compelling content and channels for a wide range of audiences, to showcase the astonishing wonder of microbes, the transformative power of microbiology and the essential contribution of microbiologists.

This role reports to the Chief Communications Officer and will requires collaborative working with members of the Society's governance structure and the Heads of Scientific Programmes and Development Opportunities respectively, responsible for creating and delivering the society's overall communication strategy across all channels including social media and website, overseeing policy and membership engagement activities, promoting member expertise to policymakers in the UK and internationally and encourage member engagement through opportunities the Society's 'Get Involved' campaign.

The postholder will have experience working within science communication, displaying strong scientific knowledge while delivering high impact engagement campaigns. It is essential to have experience in People Management as this role oversees the different branches of the Engagement and Storytelling theme covering Communication, Policy and Membership.

Please note that the organisation operates a hybrid working policy.

For more information about the Society, please visit our website.

Our generous benefits package includes;
• Flexible working hours
• Highly competitive salaries with an annual cost of living increase
• 23 days holiday + eight bank holidays and three additional days over the Christmas break
• 10% employer pension contribution
• Life insurance including free (health and wellbeing) employee support services
• Enhanced maternity pay to include 26 weeks of fully paid maternity leave and 13 weeks of statutory maternity pay
• Enhanced Adoption pay to include 26 weeks of fully paid adoption leave and 13 weeks of statutory adoption pay
• Season Ticket Loan Scheme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• £50 contribution towards eye care

To Apply

Please attach your CV and Cover Letter.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Interviews will be held in-person at the Microbiology Society Office.

Closing date: 8th May 2026

It is important that you DO NOT include your Personal Information i.e. name and contact details in your CV or Cover Letter. This is because the Microbiology Society is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age. We value, promote, and seek diversity.

The Society also takes the security of your data seriously. It has internal policies and controls in place to ensure that your data is not lost, accidentally destroyed, misused, or disclosed, and is not accessed except by our employees in the proper performance of their duties.

Please note that due to limited resources, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted therefore, if you do not hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

“We are interested in every candidate who is eligible to work in the United Kingdom. However, we are not able to sponsor visas.”

At Bookmark, we have a simple vision: we want every child to read. We have seen significant growth over the past few years, building a network of engaged supporters and an effective Partnerships Board. As we pass the halfway mark of our three-year strategy, we are recruiting a major donor fundraiser to play a key role in the growth of our philanthropy programme, securing and developing relationships with high-net-worth individuals that change the story for children. 

This individual will join a successful team, stewarding and cultivating existing supporters as well as managing a pipeline of prospects through their giving journey. You will work directly with the Head of Fundraising and be responsible for your own portfolio of major donors, trusts and family foundations. By August 2027 Bookmark aim to have reached 500,000 children with our literacy programmes, you could be part of that incredible goal.

Experience in philanthropy is welcome but not essential. We are equally interested in candidates with a strong track record of managing high-value relationships and delivering excellent stewardship in commercial or client-facing roles.

Job Description

Delivering the Philanthropy plan

• Work with the Director of Fundraising to grow the major donor portfolio within the wider strategy 
• Build and maintain a portfolio of existing and new major donors who give or can give £20,000 or more, ensuring a first-class cultivation and stewardship journey
• Line manage the Philanthropy Executive and support their professional development, providing direction, support and guidance
• Work with our Fundraising Research & Administration Intern to identify new potential Bookmark major donors, working with Trustees, senior stakeholders, and our wonderfully supportive Partnerships Board to secure introductions and make asks of prospective supporters
• Design and deliver creative events and activities to generate income, cultivate and steward donors
• Create compelling, relevant and tailored funding proposals, reports and collateral to inspire and inform donors, reflecting Bookmark’s strong brand. 
• Use Salesforce to manage the accurate recording, progression and forecasting of major donor relationships, enabling efficient reporting and KPI management

Work with the rest of the Fundraising team

• Work closely with the rest of the Fundraising team to ensure opportunities to maximise income for the fundraising team
• Devise and deliver annual plans, together with associated budgets, in line with the charity’s strategic objectives
• Work with the Senior Leadership Team, Chair of Trustees and colleagues across the charity to ensure major donor fundraising activity is aligned with the charity’s wider plans and objectives
• Ensure that all activity helps to build Bookmark’s brand and is always brand compliant
• Ensure Bookmark’s ethical fundraising policy is adhered to

Person Specification

Essential

• A successful track record in managing high-value relationships, including a proven track record of securing five-figure gifts
• Experience working towards and meeting, or exceeding, income targets
• Experience developing high value relationships through all stages of the giving cycle 
• A demonstrable ability to build internal relationships and use senior stakeholders (CEO, Trustees, Senior Leadership Team) to help progress major donor relationships
• Experience working on successful events that meet fundraising targets
• Great verbal communication skills, demonstrated by strong external and internal relationships. You will have the skills to influence, motivate and persuade people to donate
• Demonstrable experience of writing successful, inspiring, emotive, and technically accurate cases for support and proposals tailored to a high value audience
• Experience growing and managing a pipeline, planning for your portfolio and increasing income
• An understanding and ability to build budgets and work with financials
• Experience using of Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Experience using Salesforce, or another fundraising database

Bonus Points

• Major donor and/or Trusts & Foundations experience 
• Line management experience
• Experience working with a fundraising board or high value committee
• Experience managing and developing a high value giving circle
• Experience running matching campaigns or large mailings

Location: Minimum two days per week based at the Bookmark office (London), with flexibility around home working for the remaining days.

Contract type: Permanent - Full Time / Part-time (0.8/4 days) will be considered.

Salary: £40,000 - £42,000 (0.8 FTE - £32,000 - £33,600)

Reporting to: Director of Fundraising 

Application deadline: 11th May at 10am, but please note that interim shortlisting will occur on 29th April at 10am.

Want to know more?

We will be running an online session for anyone wishing to understand more about the role on Wednesday 22nd April at 2pm.  Please find the link to sign up on the relevant job description on our website.

Equality and Diversity

Bookmark is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community. We aim to create a working environment in which all individuals can make best use of their skills, free from discrimination or harassment, and in which all decisions are based on merit. We offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies and opportunity for flexible working arrangements to support team members from different backgrounds.

Bookmark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being and welfare of children and requires everyone associated with the charity, including all trustees, employees, and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful applicants will need to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the role, including references from past employers and Disclosure and Barring Service checks.

At Bookmark, we are a small but growing team of hard-workichang people, who care about what we do. We love to roll up our sleeves, try new ways of doing things, and support each other so that we can achieve our goals. If that sounds like you and you share our vision and values, we'd love to hear from you.

Safeguarding

Bookmark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being and welfare of children and requires everyone associated with the charity, including all trustees, employees, and volunteers to share this commitment.  Successful applicants will need to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the role, including references from past employers and Disclosure and Barring Service checks.

Prisoners Abroad is a small but powerful organisation supporting people through some of the most isolating and traumatic experiences imaginable. Whether it’s someone surviving a prison sentence overseas, returning to the UK with nothing, or a family facing the distress of having a family member imprisoned abroad, your work here will have a direct and lasting impact.

A fantastic opportunity has opened up to manage and grow a well-established major donor programme, developing relationships with high-net-worth individuals, craft compelling cases for support, and deliver thoughtful stewardship that makes donors feel truly valued and connected. You’ll also have the chance to shape how we grow our pipeline, with support from a team that values creativity, emotional intelligence and collaboration, so plenty of opportunities to get creative and make your mark.

With experience of securing 4–5 figure gifts and a flair for building meaningful relationships, you’ll be a confident communicator with strong writing skills, and you’ll enjoy using insight to create personal donor journeys that inspire generosity.

To apply for this position, please read the job pack which provides lots of information about the charity, the role and how to apply.

The deadline for applications is 10am Tuesday 5th May, however we will be reviewing applications as we receive them, so please apply when you are ready and you may be contacted about your application before the closing date. To ensure inclusivity, all applications received up to the closing date will be considered equally.

If you have any questions about the application or recruitment process, or want to schedule a call for more information, then get in touch and we'll happily arrange that.

Longmire Recruitment is our dedicated recruitment partner for this vacancy

Location: Home-based and London

Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week), with some evening work and travel required*

* The RSB currently offers a four-day working week (32 hours), which is non-contractual and reviewed annually

Position: Permanent

The Royal Society of Biology is a single unified voice, representing a diverse membership of individuals, learned societies and other organisations across the biosciences. Our members study, work and research in fields that encompass humans, animals, plants, fungi, microorganisms, ecosystems and the molecular mechanisms of life. Our vision is of a world that values biology's contribution to understanding and improving life for all.

This exciting new Head of Communications role will sit within the External Affairs department and line manage two direct reports. You will lead the RSB’s strategic communications, branding and stakeholder engagement activities, in order to advance its mission, grow its influence with key audiences, enhance its resonance with members and potential members, and strengthen its reputation. As Head of Communications, you will also champion consistent, impactful communication across digital and social media and the press, fostering trust among stakeholders and shaping and delivering compelling narratives about the biosciences and the RSB's work.

The successful applicant will be able to demonstrate:

• Experience in leading a communications function in the charity, research or science sector.
• Strong experience in media relations, including managing press enquiries and securing high-impact coverage.
• Experience in overseeing digital communications, marketing, branding and content production.
• The ability to translate complex scientific or technical information for non-specialist audiences (Education,  qualifications or experience in the biosciences or related subjects would be an asset)
• Experience in managing and developing high-performing teams, with a collaborative and supportive leadership style.

Longmire Recruitment is our dedicated recruitment partner for this vacancy.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK

The RSB is committed to ensuring equal opportunities in the life sciences, and supports diversity throughout lifetimes at school and higher education, in the workplace and training; we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities and cultures and believe that a diverse workforce will help us to achieve our mission.

Director of Advocacy
£67,000 - £70,000, plus 8% pension contribution 
35 hours per week – flexible working and part-time considered
Permanent role
Hybrid working – home working, with travel to our Godalming office and regular meetings in London

Lead the strategy. Influence the law. Change the future for animals.

The League Against Cruel Sports is the UK’s leading charity working to create a kinder society where animals are never harmed in the name of ‘sport’. From securing the landmark Hunting Act to exposing cruelty through investigations and championing stronger protections, we are driven by compassion and powered by evidence.

We are now seeking a Director of Advocacy — a strategic, inspiring leader who can steer our campaigns, public affairs and intelligence work to deliver meaningful and lasting change for animals. The focus of the role is mission delivery - ending cruel ‘sports’.

About the role

This is a high-profile leadership position at the heart of the organisation, you will oversee the strategy for political change (with a particular focus on England and Wales).

You will:

• Provide strategic leadership for our campaigns, public affairs and intelligence functions (England & Wales).
• Lead organisational planning to ensure our advocacy is aligned, evidence-led and delivers maximum impact.
• Oversee the development of compelling campaigns to influence public opinion and drive legislative change.
• Ensure operational robustness, risk management and governance across all advocacy activities.
• Play a hands-on role developing our strategy for engagement with different press and broadcast media platforms and contributing to our capacity for delivering this work, supporting our Senior Communications Officer.
• Inspire and develop a talented team, line managing the Heads of Campaigns, Intelligence and Public Affairs.
• Work closely with colleagues across fundraising, marketing and senior leadership to ensure a unified approach.
• Support the CEO on strategic messaging, while they remain the organisation’s primary spokesperson.

This role is predominantly internally focused shaping the strategy, strengthening systems, and empowering teams with the evidence and direction needed to create effective advocacy. It is also an exceptional opportunity for someone aspiring to future executive leadership.

About you

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• Leadership experience in advocacy, campaigns, media or public affairs (ideally within the charity or campaigning sector).
• A deep understanding of political and legislative processes in England & Wales.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and drive cross-organisational planning.
• Strong strategic judgement with a track record of influencing policy or social change.
• Experience managing operational risk in complex or high-profile advocacy environments.
• Collaborative leadership style and the ability to inspire, motivate and mentor others.
• A passion for animal welfare and a commitment to creating meaningful, positive change.

Experience in animal welfare, environmental or social justice sectors — as well as existing political contacts — are welcome advantages.

Why join us?

At the League, you’ll be part of a courageous, committed and supportive organisation working every day to end animal cruelty. You’ll shape national debate, influence policy at the highest levels, and help secure a future where animals are protected and respected.

We understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance, enjoy flexible working arrangements, including options for compressed hours and remote work from day one. With 28 days (pro-rata) of annual leave, in addition to the public holidays, and a generous employer contribution of eight percent towards your pension scheme, we prioritise your well-being. Additionally, our benefits package includes discounts on shopping, electronics, hospitality and leisure. Find out more about working at the League. 

How to apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a short covering statement outlining how your experience aligns with the role, by 19 April 2026.

The interview process will include a 30-minute online introduction to our intelligence unit on Thursday 23 or Friday 24 April and an in-person interview at our Godalming Head Office on Tuesday 28 April or Thursday 30 April.

The League Against Cruel Sports is committed to inclusivity and diversity, and we welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

We believe that together we can end animal cruelty in the name of sport. Join us in our purposeful mission to redefine what is acceptable and inspire positive change in animal welfare legislation.  

Theos is a Christian think tank which seeks a world in which Christian ideas about human flourishing are drawn upon to answer some of the world’s biggest challenges. We stimulate debate about the place of religion in society, challenging and changing ideas through research, commentary and events. 

Are you a strategic thinker who loves turning bold ideas into real-world impact? Theos is looking for a dynamic Head of Strategy, Operations and Planning to help shape and deliver our ambitious vision at the intersection of faith, society and public debate. As a key leader in our Senior Leadership Team, you’ll drive organisational strategy, strengthen operational excellence, and act as a force multiplier for our Director—bridging imagination and execution. If you thrive on building systems, inspiring teams and making meaningful change happen, we’d love you to help lead us into our next chapter.

If this sounds like you and you have the legal right to work and remain in the UK, we’d love to hear from you. Please provide your CV and a 250-word statement that sets out your motivation and relevant experience for the job. 

Theos is part of Bible Society and is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We value diversity and aspire to reflect this in our workforce. We welcome applications from people representing all sections of the community. 

The Development Manager (Grants) leads on bid-writing and relationship building with grantmakers (Trusts/Foundations/Public). The candidate will be a key player in the Grants team alongside the Director of Development (Grants/Major Gifts) and Development Officer. Create has seen its fundraising increase significantly in recent years, as it fulfils its ambitious plans to double its reach by its 25th anniversary in 2028. The Grants team is responsible for securing over 50% of the charity’s income, managing an extensive portfolio of T/F/Public funders, approaching a well-researched pipeline of potential funders, and researching prospects. The successful candidate will share Create’s commitment to the transformative power of the creative arts within community settings, with exceptional written and verbal communication, research, organisational and IT skills, and meticulous attention to detail.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced events professional to join the Living Wage Foundation team as an Events Manager. You will be responsible for developing, delivering, and supporting the team with innovative events to promote the Living Wage movement, support the existing employer network, increase public support for fair pay and encourage Living Wage accreditation.

You will be responsible for our annual Champion Awards ceremony and organising parliamentary events, roundtables and webinars for our network of employers and beyond, as well as providing strategic oversight of events at our annual Living Wage Week in November where we celebrate Living Wage Employers nationwide with multiple events.

The ideal candidate would be an organised events manager, with strong project management skills, the ability to communicate with senior stakeholders internally and externally and the skills to establish strong relationships. They would have experience running online and in-person events with clear objectives and connecting them to organisational strategy.

This post will be joining a Communications team that spans events, media, digital communications and research, with colleagues based across the UK with monthly in-person team meetings. They will be responsible for the line management of the Events Officer. They will report to the Senior Media & Communications Manager.

Person Specification

(D) Desirable, (E) Essential

Experience

·Experience managing in-person and online events (E)

· Experience communicating effectively with senior stakeholders (E)

· Experience using project management tools. (D)

· Experience using Microsoft 365 apps including Loop and Planner (D)

· Experience of line management (D)

Key skills and knowledge

· Knowledge of risk management protocols (E)

· Project management skills, including monitoring and evaluation (E)

· Excellent attention to detail  (E)

· Ability to effectively communicate and build strong relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders (E)

· Excellent planning, organisation, and prioritisation skills, including the ability to manage competing demands and deal with unforeseen issues  (E)

· Good IT skills, including experience using Microsoft 365 apps (D)

· Knowledge of marketing and communication best practice (D)

· Creative thinker and problem solver (E)

Personal qualities & values

· An interest and enthusiasm for planning events, and the mission of the Living Wage Foundation (E)

· Highly self-motivated with ability to work well independently as well as part of a team (E)

· A commitment for Diversity and Inclusion (E)

Who are Guts UK Charity?

Guts UK Charity is committed to a world where digestive conditions are better understood, better treated and everyone who lives with one gets the support they need. Too many people are suffering or dying in silence or alone. They don’t know where to turn for information or support, diagnosis takes too long for many, and treatment can often come too late.​

We are the only UK charity that covers the entire digestive system. We raise vital awareness of digestive conditions, fund life-saving research, and provide patients and loved ones with expert information and support – we are informed by evidence and expertise, our community, and the patient voice.​ 

Our mission is simple: to improve the lives of millions of people affected by digestive conditions 

Overall Purpose of the Communications Manager

As Communications Manager at Guts UK, you’ll champion our charity’s work and brand. You’ll play a pivotal role in our charity, delivering our communications, awareness and public education activity and providing communications support across other key areas of our work, including information, research and fundraising.

Who we’re looking for?

You'll be experienced in delivering comprehensive communications and campaigns from start to finish with a natural flare for transforming complex messages into engaging, easy to understand content suitable for different audiences.

You are a friendly and approachable leader who enjoys working creatively and collaboratively within a small team, as well as with external stakeholders and members of our community.

You are a brave and bold communicator who values collaboration and connection, matching our values as a charity, and you have a genuine interest in digestive health or connection to our area of work.

Location

We have offices in London and Huddersfield, both of which are easily accessible by public transport or road. We support hybrid working but attendance in the chosen office is required for a minimum of 1 day per week.

Please see the attached detail job pack for further information and how to apply. 

Camden Community Centres' Consortium (C4) is a charity that brings together organisations leading and operating community spaces in the London Borough of Camden, for collective action and development.

C4’s mission is to harness the power of our network to ensure that Camden’s community spaces are deeply embedded in the borough’s social fabric, driving innovation, equity, and wellbeing.

The General Manager will be the key person responsible for the day-to-day operations of the charity and the management of the network and its activities. This is a flexible role for a charity management all-rounder: a multi-skilled self-starter, confident working both independently and collaboratively.

This General Manager role will be the first and only dedicated staff member in a long time, and will be key to enabling our collective ambition. It’s a role that has potential to expand for the right person, and grow with the ambition of C4 - and will be key to collaborating on making that possible.

The General Manager collaborates with the Executive Co-Chairs to deliver the Strategy and develop the impact of our network, convene and build our membership, develop the sustainability of the charity and communicate our impact with members and stakeholders.

The General Manager is the key person responsible for the day-to-day operations of the charity and the management of the network and its activities.

We’re offering this role in two forms: as a flexible freelance contract, or a fixed-term secondment opportunity, and are keen to explore options for the right candidate.

Pay: £2500 per month to deliver the work.

The fee is calculated based on approx. 3 days per week at £200 per day, but we are open to proposals for exact working pattern and rate.

Working hours: Up to 3 days per week (depending on agreement), worked with at least 1 fixed day and some flexibility welcomed.

Download the full Recruitment Pack for job description and how to apply.

Make a Difference Where It Matters Most 

At Home-Start Richmond, Kingston and Hounslow, we believe that childhood can’t wait. We’re a vibrant, community-rooted charity supporting families through the critical early years of parenting. Our volunteers and staff work side-by-side with families, offering emotional and practical support, building confidence, and creating lasting connections. 

We are now seeking an Impact and Operations Manager to join our passionate team and shape the future of our services. 

About the Role 

This is a unique opportunity to lead our impact and operations strategy, ensuring we have the insight, tools, and systems to deliver high-quality support to families. You’ll play a pivotal role in measuring and communicating our impact, supporting strategic decision-making, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead and manage data collection, evaluation, and reporting across all family support services 

• Develop tailored reports and insights for internal and external stakeholders 

• Collaborate on funding applications with the CEO and Head of Marketing & Fundraising 

• Oversee administrative systems and policies, including GDPR compliance and HR processes 

• Manage office operations, including tech support, premises, and general administration, and line manage operations and data & impact team 

• Contribute to strategic planning and service innovation using data and insight 

• Strengthen our presence across local and national networks in partnership with the Senior Management Team 

What You’ll Bring 

• Strong experience in managing and interpreting data to drive impact and inform strategy 

• Strategic thinking with the ability to manage multiple projects and deliver results 

• Confidence with technology and quick ability to learn new tools and systems 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships 

• A curious, analytical mindset and a passion for telling the story of our work 

Why Join Us? 

• A flexible, hybrid working model co-designed with our team 

• A supportive, inclusive, and values-driven culture 

• A chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of local families 

• Excellent pension and generous annual leave 

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Head of Anti-Bullying Alliance and Schools Wellbeing Partnership
Contract: Maternity cover. Fixed-term, 10-months (from June 2026)
Work Pattern: Full Time, 35 hours per week (We are open to flexible hours and working patterns, including accommodating part-time and compressed hours where possible).
Salary: £65,016 per annum
Location: London Fields, E8. (NCB promotes a hybrid, flexible way of working with 2 days working in the office).

About the Role

This role provides senior leadership for the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA) and the Schools Wellbeing Partnership (SWP), two specialist membership groups hosted by the National Children’s Bureau that support schools, organisations and government to improve children and young people’s experiences of bullying, wellbeing and belonging. The post is a 10 month maternity leave cover position, focused on maintaining continuity, stability and impact across established programmes, partnerships and campaigns.

The Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA) is a UK wide membership network of over 300 organisations working together to prevent bullying and create safer environments for children and young people. It leads national activity such as Anti-Bullying Week and Odd Socks Day, develops evidence informed resources and training, and influences policy and practice at a national level.

The Schools Wellbeing Partnership (SWP) supports schools to embed whole school approaches to wellbeing and belonging through networks, tools and peer learning with school leaders and partners across England.

During the maternity cover period, the postholder will ensure the smooth delivery of core programmes and campaigns, including leadership of Anti-Bullying Week and Odd Socks Day planning, communications and partnerships. They will maintain relationships with members, funders, government, parliamentarians and high profile supporters, sustain policy engagement and external visibility, and support income generation activity already in progress. The role also includes management of the team, oversight of communications activity, and maintaining momentum across existing projects and networks while providing stable and supportive team leadership.

About Us

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break
• Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 08:00am on Tuesday 5th May 2026 
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

As Director of External Affairs across the Bild Group of four small charities (with collective turnover of approx. £3m/yr), you will have a deep commitment to human rights and improving people’s lives.

You will provide strategic direction and leadership to the External Relations function across all four charities in the group, taking overall responsibility for and providing thought-leadership on our strategic approach to policy, influencing, public affairs, stakeholder engagement. 

You will play a lead role in planning, developing, and implementing the communication and external relations and wider engagement strategic plan to grow awareness and profile of Bild, Respond, Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and ACT.

By sharing the impact of our work and programmes in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities, autism and /or mental health conditions, you will support Bild in becoming the sector leading provider of organisational and workforce development (and RRN in becoming the leading charity in reducing restrictive practices globally – and Respond as leaders in trauma informed therapy).

You will champion Bild and RRN’s brand, vision, mission and values acting as an ambassador for the organisation both internally and externally to partners, stakeholders and media.

Key Responsibilities and Duties: 

Strategic Leadership:  

• Develop and implement an integrated communications and external relations strategy across the four charities in the group to raise our profile and to influence change which positively impacts on our beneficiaries, aligning media, campaigning, and public affairs with the charity’s mission and strategic priorities 

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team including Membership and Events Officer, Resources Coordinator and comms team as required 

Comms & Marketing:

• Plan, develop and implement strategic communications and marketing plans to maximise awareness of the Bild Group of charities across the broad spectrum of communications disciplines including media relations, stakeholder management, influencer engagement, ethical (impact focused) marketing, social and new media and the production of new materials and resources 

• Write, develop and produce materials such as infographics, press releases, briefing documents, media statements and online information suitable for stakeholders, including people with lived experience

• Ensure effective marketing across all four charities focusing on impact and including ensuring we attend a range of external events and that all four websites are best practice. 

Influencing & Public Affairs:  

• Working with the CEO, you will drive policy change by developing strategies to influence key decision makers through building relationships with parliamentarians, government departments, and sector stakeholders to ensure the charity's policy agenda is impactful 

• Lead proactive and reactive media engagement, calls and requests for information in order to capitalise on suitable opportunities for maximising the reach and impact of all four charities

• Build our credibility as a thought leader in the sector 

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:  

• Build and sustain strategic alliances with senior civil servants, civil society groups, and community partners to increase the organization's influence and impact 

• Develop effective stakeholder relationship management processes that ensure partnerships of all levels are provided with a rich, immersive engagement experience with the organisation and the work that we do 

• Identify, liaise with and ensure positive relationships with key stakeholders – internal and external including media, government departments, partners, charities, providers, customers, other relevant parties to secure maximum impact for all four charities and their beneficiaries

Reputation, Brand Management & Marketing:  

• Champion the Bild group brands, promoting the mission, values and impact of the organisation and ensuring consistent, engaging narratives and high-quality storytelling across all external channels

• Shaping the charity's profile and protecting its reputation through media relations, digital engagement, and consistent key messaging and building our credibility as thought leaders in sector. 

Membership, Events & Communities:  

• By ensuring appropriate, effective and engaging communications to all relevant audiences and stakeholders, your role will support the growth and development of our membership, Communities of Practice and the event programme (including webinars and conferences).

• Effectively plan, manage and lead a range of events for the Bild group of charities and associated marketing and communications

• Develop framework for Communities of Practice and strategy for engagement and growth 

• Supporting Bild and RRN spokespeople with PR and media outreach

• Keep abreast of communications and engagement activity within the sector and demonstrate an awareness of the impact these may have on existing and future communications activity

General Responsibilities 

• Contribute to evaluation and assessment of results against KPIs and tracking activity

• Allocate, manage and evaluate budget spend

• Identify resource requirements for activity across Bild group

• Develop and maintain systems, databases and procedures to support Bild group communication activities

• Plan, monitor, appraise and report progress of activity regularly with an innate understanding of how this supports activity across the Bild group

• Plan, manage and oversee budgetary spend related to outsourcing specialist activities such as video editing and design

• Ensure communications and marketing work complies with data protection and other legal, professional and agency requirements, standards and policies

• Support the senior leadership team on any activity as required. 

Personal Development  

• Be part of a culture of quality in all areas of communications, PR and marketing

• Participate and contribute to individual performance appraisal and supervision sessions

• Keep abreast of relevant initiatives and developments within the adult health and social care, education & disability sector and the wider communications / engagement profession

• Undertake relevant training, as necessary including accessing new systems and software as required to support the role.

Organisational Responsibilities: 

• Access and work within Bild’s policies and procedures.  

• Attend internal cycle of team meetings relevant to this role.  

• Engage with line management, supervision (where appropriate) and appraisal process.  

• Comply with data protection regulations, ensuring that information on clients, employees, volunteers and other stakeholders remains confidential.  

• Take responsibility for personal learning and development with support from line manager.  

• Work in a manner that facilitates equal opportunities and inclusion for all.  

• Remain professional and respectful at all times, promoting positive relations with all those we encounter in our work.  

• Maintain health and safety and risk awareness for self and others across the organisation.  

• Undertake any other duties that Bild may require within the remit of this role.  

This job description does not form part of the contract of employment. It is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review with the postholder at their annual appraisal.  

Person Specification  

Job Title 

Director of External Relations 

• Exceptional copy writing and verbal communication skills

• Good presenting, negotiating and influencing skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build mutually beneficial relationships

• The ability to work effectively within a small team

• Ability to work under pressure, and plan, manage, and adapt own workload

• A flexible, proactive and problem-solving approach to work

• A motivated attitude and ability to work on own initiative 

• A commitment to human rights and modelling accessibility and inclusion throughout activity

• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as demanded by the post

• Fit to undertake the duties of the post. 

Experience/Skills/Competencies 

Essential 

• Significant experience working in communications, policy and PR with demonstrable success

• PR and media management experience, including both online and traditional PR

• Experience of managing and implementing social media plans, including post development, scheduling, evaluation and monitoring feedback

• Experience of overseeing the design and production of print and electronic publications, including website management and development

• Experience of managing CRM systems and ensuring effective data capture and utilising data to inform decision making

• Ability to analyse data and shape results into reports that inform decision making

• Ability to build effective relationships and networks and establish credibility for Bild, RRN, Respond and Bild ACT 

• Ability to work collaboratively and develop positive relationships with colleagues, members and wider stakeholders

• Demonstrated digital comms / social media skills and understanding of emerging digital marketing tools and platforms

• Ability to use a variety of IT packages/databases including CRM systems.

• Experience managing budgets and associated reporting

• Ability to work remotely and regularly travel to in person events

• Time management skills and ability to prioritise workload under pressure as part of a small but vibrant team

• Strong awareness and interest in news/current affairs/politics and the broader third sector, social care and education sector. 

Desirable 

• Experience working in the not-for-profit sector, preferably in another disability and/or membership charity

• Strong understanding of education, health, social care, disability and not for profit environment

• Strong media contacts within relevant trade sector publications

• Ability to use externally managed media databases (such as Agility etc.)

• Experience with conferences, webinars and hybrid events. 

• Experience supporting and manging a remote team

Education and Qualifications: 

Other Requirements: 

• Commitment to anti-discriminatory practice and equal opportunities and able to apply awareness of diversity issues to all areas of work.  

• Regular travel to attend meetings and events. 

• Occasional evening meetings.  

Legal requirements: 

• Enhanced DBS check. 

This is a pivotal role at an exciting point in the development of our training and consultancy function. We are looking for someone who can build on the strong foundations already in place and take the function into its next phase - growing reach, strengthening quality, deepening partnerships and scaling delivery through a high-quality blended model that combines NAPAC’s external trainer network with our internal expertise. 

The successful candidate will lead the development of NAPAC’s learning products, oversee the Trauma Informed Organisations Programme, and build strong relationships with clients, commissioners, partners and other stakeholders. They will shape proposals, identify opportunities for growth, and ensure that all training products are evidence-informed, accessible and aligned with survivor perspectives. 

A central part of the role is to lead and strengthen NAPAC’s delivery model, including the recruitment, support and quality assurance of external trainers and training associates. The postholder will be responsible for ensuring that delivery across the client base is well designed, well matched and consistently high quality. 

We are looking for someone who brings real credibility in learning design and facilitation. The successful candidate will be confident overseeing high quality delivery across the wider model and, where appropriate, delivering selected high value or flagship sessions themselves where this adds strategic value.

We recommend visiting NAPAC's website for more infomration about our work and this role. 

Application is by cv and supporting statement by 19 April 2026.