Service manager jobs

ID: 1543 Assistant Director Services and Innovation

Service: Gloucestershire Hub (and surrounding areas) Central Region

Salary: Grade 5 Point 39 – 46: £47,264 - £54,728 FTE per annum (£28,358.40 - £32,836.80 per annum, pro rata)

- Additionally, £480 home-based allowance FTE per annum

Location: Home based with travel to various locations in Gloucestershire and surrounds (the post holder is also expected to regularly spend time at our delivery sites within Stroud and the Cotswold’s).

Hours: 3 days – part time (22.2 hours per week)

We offer flexible working arrangements - please see below for more details

Contract: Permanent Contract

Family Action & the Role’s Impact:

At Family Action we support people through change, challenge or crisis. It’s what we’ve done for over 150 years. We protect children, support young people and adults and offer direct, practical help to families and communities.

We see first-hand the power of family to shape lives, for better or worse, so we speak up for the

importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today.

We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic leader to provide high-level leadership across Family Action’s services in Gloucestershire and surrounding areas, ensuring the safe, high-quality, and financially sustainable delivery of children, youth, and family services.

You will bring significant experience in managing services for children, young people, and families with complex needs. You will have a strong track record of leading and developing multidisciplinary teams, while driving continuous improvement and service excellence.

As a system leader and convenor, you will build and maintain strategic relationships across local authorities, health, and the voluntary and community sector. You will play a key role in driving Family Hub transformation, promoting innovation, and contributing to the ongoing growth and strategic development of Family Action’s work in the region.

Family Action are forward looking, ambitious and have a commitment to continuous improvement and development. We are a people-focused, can-do organisation that strives for excellence in all we do, and operates with mutual respect. If you share these values and have the necessary skills we want we look forward to hearing from you.

At Family Action we transform lives by providing practical, emotional and financial support to those who are experiencing poverty, disadvantage and social isolation. We have been building stronger families since 1869 and today we work with more than 60,000 families in over 150 community based services, as well as supporting thousands more through national programmes and grants.

Responsibilities:

Leadership, Performance and Strategic Delivery

· Lead strategic partnerships

· oversee service performance and safeguarding, and drive innovation across Family Hubs and related services.

Line Management

· Manage recruitment, development, and performance of staff, supporting a high-performing and learning-focused culture.

Financial Responsibility

· Oversee budgets, manage financial risks, and contribute to sustainable service development.

Internal/External Relationships

· Represent Family Action externally and build strong partnerships to support integrated service delivery.

Quality Assurance

· Ensure high-quality, safe, and compliant services through effective monitoring and continuous improvement.

Main Requirements (for details check the job description and person specification):

· Proven experience leading services for children, young people, and families with complex needs.

· Strong track record in stakeholder engagement and cross-sector partnership working.

· Ability to manage teams, budgets, and service performance to a high standard.

· Knowledge of safeguarding, regulatory frameworks, and quality assurance processes.

· Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, with an understanding of structural disadvantage.

· Appointments are subject to Family Action receiving a satisfactory disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service – Enhanced

Benefits:

- an annual paid leave entitlement that commences at 25 working days, rising each April by one day, subject to a maximum of 30 working days plus bank holidays

- up to 6% matched-pension contributions

- flexible working arrangements and new starters have the right to make flexible working requests from day one of employment

- enhanced paid sick leave and paid family leave provisions

- eye care and winter flu jabs vouchers

- cycle to work scheme

- investing in your professional development with ongoing quality training and career development opportunities

We are forward looking, ambitious and committed to continuous improvement. We are a people focused, can-do organisation, which strives for excellence in all we do and operates with mutual respect.

To Apply:

· complete an application form on the Family Action portal

· Closing Date: Sunday 7th September 2025 at 23:59

Interviews - week commencing 15th September and 22nd September - dates to be confirmed.

For direct queries or if you would like to discuss any aspect of the selection process or flexible working requests, please email: Gabriel Hall (full email address in advert document)

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process and you will be asked whether you require any adjustments if shortlisted for interview. We also make reasonable adjustments on the job, where required.

We are committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Intersectionality is important to us and we particularly welcome applications from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates because we are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Family Action. We know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for families and children and strive for our workforce to be truly representative of the diverse communities we support. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role, and will reimburse your travel cost if you attend an interview.

For this vacancy, we are also applying positive action to improve the representation of people of colour in senior operational management roles at Family Action. As such, the guaranteed interview scheme is extended to applicants of colour who meet the minimum criteria.

*Ordinarily Family Action appoints new starters at the starting point of the salary scale (with subsequent annual pay progression), unless you have experience that would justify appointment further up the salary scale or there are any other exceptional reasons.

At Blood Cancer UK, we’re support and campaign for everyone affected by blood cancer. Our digital support services help people feel informed, connected, and supported, no matter where they live in the UK. 

As Digital Support Services Officer, you’ll help ensure that people affected by blood cancer can access reliable information and peer support through a range of digital platforms. You’ll lead the day-to-day running of our online community forum, support and coordinate volunteers, and work across teams to help develop and improve our support offer. You’ll use data and insights to enable us to reach more people and provide the best possible support.

You’ll be confident in digital environments and committed to making support accessible and inclusive. You will have experience in online communities, peer support or other digital support services and be comfortable engaging with people who may be going through challenging times. You’re also a team player who’s effective in  working across departments and supporting volunteers. 

Expected travel for this role is: 1-2 times per month and attending team away days plus two organisational away days a year.  

We are committed to actively promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity. In line with our strategy we welcome approaches from individuals from underrepresented groups, including minority communities, and applicants with a disability, to better reflect the community we serve and help broaden our perspectives.

We’ll accept applications for anyone wishing to work 28 hours per week, please state this in your cover letter. 

Stewardship is seeking a passionate and experienced Senior Relationship Manager to guide high-capacity donors in their philanthropic journey.  Providing exceptional client service and offering expert philanthropic advice you'll help to drive the growth of our award-winning Philanthropy Fund.  

This is a varied role which would suit someone with experience guiding high-capacity donors in their grant-making, and a passion for encouraging generosity. Working within a supportive team, your role will include building relationships with new and existing clients, facilitating the creation of complex giving strategies and spotting new areas of opportunity for impact. You will enjoy working in an ambitious team and have experience in being able to communicate excellently with a variety of stakeholders and decision makers. 

We’re recruiting a forward thinking, strategic and compassionate Head of Family Services to lead the development of our support services delivered by our team of Family Support Workers to families of children and young people with cancer in the East Midlands. This is a newly created role and a key position in our small, impactful charity.

We’re looking for someone with a strong background in family support, health or social care, excellent people and communication skills, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of families facing childhood cancer.

The post holder will have direct line management responsibility for our team of Family Support Workers and Family Services Co-ordinator, providing leadership across service development, staff wellbeing, safeguarding, partnership engagement, and impact reporting. They will be responsible for ensuring that the team is supported through adequate training and supervision.

Partnership building with organisations and professionals will also form a part of this role and the post holder will build strong relationships with stakeholders across the health, social care and voluntary sectors.

Home based. Regular Teams and face-to-face meetings with travel to Leicester, Nottingham, and locations across the East Midlands required.

Salary circa £45k with opportunities for growth.

Generous Relocation Package with accommodation available at a low rental agreement.

Do you have a leadership career in Care and are looking to join a faith-based organisation dedicated to supporting vulnerable people in a beautiful part of the UK.

Karrek Community is a vibrant not-for-profit company that provide genuine person-centered support to a wide range of people across the County.

Whether you have a background in Social Care or the NHS this might be an opportunity for you work with a committed leadership team that wants to impact the lives of people that need that extra level of support to enable them to live at home for as long as possible.

With close connections with the Christian community Karrek Community aspires to influence the sector from a faith perspective whilst delivering inclusive support to those in need.

You will need to hold relevant care sector qualifications, be a car driver and be prepared to assist the Directors in maintaining the Christian ethos with the leadership team. For the full job description please refer to the attacehment below. 

If becoming the Homecare & Complex Support Registered Manager for Karrek sounds interesting to you and you would like to have an informal chat with one of our Directors, please contact us.

(Please only appply if you have the right to work in the UK. We do not offer sponsorship for this or any other role)

Benefits 

• 35 days Annual Leave
• Accomodation provided where required (available at a low rental agreement)
• Making a difference in vulnerable adults lives
• Beautiful Location in the heart of Cornwall 
• Help to shape the direction of a growing company 

Are you personable, passionate and thrive working with older people? Do you have a natural ability to network and build effective relationships?  If so, you could be a Scheme Manager at Peabody, helping our older residents to maintain their independence, whilst ensuring their safety and security.

Your typical day could start with providing practical assistance to a resident before you undertake a site inspection.  Then you might be meeting with an internal or external stakeholder to effectively signpost a resident to additional or specialist support before you lead a scheme event promoting resident participation and wellbeing.

As Scheme Manager, you’ll be at the heart of your Peabody community, playing a crucial role supporting the practical needs and wellbeing of residents.  You’ll actively work with residents in the management of their self-contained flat, developing and improving Peabody’s service to them and ensuring we take full account of our older residents’ needs. 

Success in this role requires your presence at the sheltered housing scheme 3 days a week, Monday, Wednesday and Friday with flexible hours.

Your role covers all aspect of housing management – everything from estate, scheme, and property inspections to identifying issues and capturing feedback to continuously improve our services and customer satisfaction.  If you’re energised by supporting your customers and, like us, committed to helping people flourish, we want to hear from you. 

To be a success in this role, you’re

• Experienced in providing support to vulnerable adults.
• Experienced working in housing.
• Knowledgeable of the importance of record keeping and understand safeguarding.
• A driver and have access to a vehicle with the appropriate insurance.

This role will require an Enhanced DBS check

Here just a few of the benefits for working at Peabody:

• 30 days’ annual holiday plus bank holidays  
• Flexible benefits scheme, including family friendly benefits and access to a discount portal 
• 4 x Life Assurance
• Professional development by access to "paid for" apprenticeship programs and qualifications
• Two additional paid volunteering days each year  
• Family friendly policies
• Up to 10% pension contribution matched 1:1

Are you ready to apply? 

Closing date: 25th August 2025

We may close this advert before the advertised closing date, depending on the number of applications received.

Interviews will be on-going 

Please note this is a part time role, 17.5 hours per week

PLEASE NOTE: As an employer, Peabody does not provide sponsorship as a licenced UK employer.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Programme Development Manager represents an evolution from our Programme Manager role, focusing on shaping the future direction of The Avenues Youth Project's programmes whilst maintaining oversight of current delivery. This isn't just about managing what we do now, it's about looking ahead and designing what comes next.

Working closely with the Programme Director, you will be responsible for researching innovative approaches to youth work, developing funding proposals, and creating programmes that respond to the changing needs of young people aged 8-19. We need someone who can think creatively about engagement whilst keeping an eye on emerging trends and opportunities in the sector.

As a member of the senior team, you'll help embed our values throughout the organisation and ensure our programmes remain at the cutting edge of youth work practice.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Programme Innovation and Strategic Development

Programme Design and Innovation

● Research and develop innovative programme concepts that address emerging needs of young people within the community, utilising best practice from across the youth work sector.

● Lead comprehensive design processes for new initiatives, collaborating with lead youth workers, young people, families and community partners to ensure programmes are relevant and effective.

● Create detailed programme frameworks incorporating learning outcomes, delivery models, resource requirements and sustainability strategies.

● Plan, develop and deliver allocated youth work projects that meet organisational aims, taking responsibility for budgeting, planning, delivery, monitoring and evaluation.

Current Programme Oversight

● Collaborate in overseeing the recruitment, retention and progress of young people across assigned programmes, working to ensure consistent engagement and positive outcomes.

● Participate in necessary working groups and initiatives on behalf of the team, liaising with a wide range of youth service providers to ensure AYP is represented in appropriate forums and relevant partnerships.

● Have proactive contact and engagement within the community, maintaining visibility and building relationships that support programme delivery.

● Work with the Programme Operations Manager to report and respond to the Programme Director and senior team on the planning, development, delivery and progress of youth work programmes.

● Ensure all data collection, documents and record keeping is up-to-date and meets the requirements of the Impact and Evaluation Manager.

● Monitor programme attendance patterns and young people's progression, identifying opportunities for enhanced engagement or additional support.

● Coordinate with the Programme Operations Manager and Lead Youth Workers to ensure consistency of approach and share effective practices across different programme areas.

Community Partnerships and External Relations

Strategic Relationship Building

● Establish and maintain strategic relationships with schools, colleges, community organisations, local authorities and other youth providers to develop collaborative networks.

● Represent AYP at community forums, working groups and sector events, maintaining awareness of local priorities and identifying partnership opportunities.

● Develop collaborative programmes with partner organisations, combining resources and expertise to maximise impact.

● Engage with families and community members to understand their aspirations for young people.

Programme Partnerships

· Support the Programme Director in developing and maintaining key relationships and partnerships.

· Establish positive working relationships with external agencies delivering youth work with us and those supporting organisational development.

· Work with the Engagement, Communities and Culture Manager, to develop and maintain effective long-term community partnerships to boost membership at AYP.

Research, Evaluation and Quality Assurance

Evidence-Based Development

● Maintain current knowledge of research and best practice in youth work, particularly relating to our target demographics.

● Commission or conduct research projects to inform programme development decisions and enhance service delivery.

● Collaborate with the Impact and Evaluation Manager, to analyse data from existing programmes to identify effective practices and areas requiring improvement.

● Collaborate with the Impact and Evaluation Manager to establish robust evaluation frameworks for new programmes.

● Work with the Impact and Evaluation Manager to understand and articulate funder objectives throughout programme design and delivery.

Quality Standards and Continuous Improvement

● Develop quality standards and frameworks for all programmes, ensuring alignment with organisational values.

● Collaborate with the HR Manager to create comprehensive training materials and guidance documentation for staff delivering new programmes.

● Monitor programme quality through systematic observation, feed \back collection and data analysis.

● Lead programme effectiveness reviews and provide recommendations for improvement.

● Liaise with external quality assurance bodies, inspectors, and regulatory authorities as required.

Staff Leadership and Development

● Line Management of Programme Operations Manager and Lead Youth Workers - including regular observations, formal supervisions, annual appraisals, and investing in their professional development.

● Attend Line Managers training and regular sessions with HR Manager.

● Deliver reflective practice sessions to the youth work team to support continuous professional development as part of our Learning and Development plan, in collaboration with HR Manager.

● Assist in recruiting or contracting new workers, tutors or teachers as required.

Funding and Financial

Strategic Funding Development

● Collaborate with the Fundraising Manager to identify funding opportunities that support programme development priorities and organisational objectives.

● Contribute to funding applications for new programme areas, ensuring proposals demonstrate clear impact potential and realistic delivery plans.

● Develop comprehensive business cases for programme expansion, including cost-benefit analysis and risk assessment.

● Monitor funding environments and policy developments that may influence programme design.

Financial Administration

● Work with the Finance Controller to ensure high-level financial administration and record keeping, with accountability for project expenditure.

● Maintain clear understanding of AYP's programme budgets and finances, with responsibility for budgeting, monitoring and reporting of assigned budgets.

● Participate in regular budget meetings with the Programme Director and work with the Finance Controller to ensure costs remain within budget.

● Check and approve Lead Youth Workers timesheets for allocated budgets and resolve discrepancies.

Safeguarding and Compliance

● Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead and carry out responsibilities in strict accordance with AYP's Safeguarding Policy,

● Work with TACs, PRUs, Police, Early Help Teams, MARFS, LADO etc. where required to ensure safety of all young people, staff and volunteers,

● Act as main point of contact for safeguarding referrals, working in partnership with other agencies to ensure safety and wellbeing,

● Maintain comprehensive knowledge of safeguarding practices and current legislation.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES 

· In conjunction with your Line Manager to continuously develop the role to ensure that all tasks are being undertaken in an effective and appropriate manner which meets the strategic aims and objectives of The Avenues. 

· Participate in internal/external meetings as required, and attend training events, conferences, and other functions as necessary. 

· Participate in regular supervision and annual appraisal and help in identifying your own job-related development and training needs. 

· Adhere to all The Avenues’ policies and procedures. 

· Stay abreast of policy and developments in youth work locally and nationally.

· Always undertake your role in a professional manner maintaining a high-quality standard of work and in accordance with our values and role model our Behaviours Framework.

· Undertake any other duties as may be reasonably required within the scope of the role. 

Overview

The Olive Tree Cancer Support Group (the Olive Tree), is a registered Charity, dedicated to the relief of the physical and/or emotional distress of persons with cancer and their partners, families, friends and carers, through the provision of services, operating from its support centres in Crawley and Horsham.

A Centre Manager is being sought to manage all aspects of the Horsham centre, working closely with the Crawley Centre Manager and reporting to the Board of Trustees, delivering the charity’s goals and long-term strategy. The responsibilities include staff and volunteer management and recruitment, onboarding new patients / service users, engaging with external stakeholders and all other operational and day to day financial matters, including supervision of team members responsible for fundraising activities, social media and communications. 

Salary: £31,000 to £35,000, depending on experience

Full time, Monday – Friday, flexible as required.

Location: Lavinia House, Horsham with some local travel.

Person Specification

The following specification is for the ideal candidate, but candidates that offer a significant proportion of the following requirements below will be considered.

Knowledge and Experience

· Experience of supporting vulnerable people

· Experience of planning and implementing in a service based organisation

· Knowledge of national and local cancer care, support and information, including holistic approaches

· Knowledge of good practice in user involvement

· Experience of monitoring, evaluation and continuous development of services

· Experience of team management and development of staff through personal development plans

· Experience of recruiting, retaining and working with volunteers

· Understanding of cancer and the effect it has on patients and those supporting them

· Experience of partnership working

· Experience in service promotion and marketing, including social media

· Experience in financial record keeping and processes

· Experience of successful project management

· Experience of working in a community and grant based fundraising organisation would be an advantage

Skills and abilities

· Conducting sensitive and difficult conversations with empathy, care and support

· Ability to lead, inspire and develop positive relationships across all stakeholders

· Ability to plan services across a range of hard and soft resources ensuring maximum utilisation of services.

· Developing a community experience

· Ability to work in a flexible manner outside standard working hours

· Autonomous and team working, excellent organisation and prioritisation

· Motivate self and others

· Advanced communication skills both written and oral

· Flexibility and adaptabilityFacilitation

· Networking

· IT and data management - full Microsoft 365 suite and contact management

· Ability to quality assess information sources

· Maintain confidentiality

· Confidence and ability in public speaking

· Desire for continuous personal development to develop own knowledge and skills

· Driving licence and use of a private vehicle

X2Service Manager – (Phoenix Project)

We are seeking two highly motivated and experienced Service Managers to join our team at the beginning of an exciting new project.  These will be pivotal roles in a fast-paced environment, crucial for driving forward this innovative project. 

Position: Service Manager – Phoenix Project

Location: West Bromwich (on-site)

Salary: £32,500 per annum

Contract: Fixed Term (3 years)

Hours: 40 hours per week over a 7-day working pattern

Closing Date: Monday 18th August 2025

The Role

We're launching Phoenix, a ground-breaking pilot supporting prison leavers with complex mental health needs, and we're looking for two experienced Service Managers to drive this forward.

As a Service Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in coordinating a dedicated on-site team to deliver high-quality support that promotes mental wellness, reduces reoffending, and empowers individuals to thrive. You'll oversee the day-to-day running of the project, from admissions and risk management to leading team performance and developing partnerships.

The outcomes from Phoenix will be shared at a local and national level by our project partners Commonweal so you will work closely with our external evaluation partners to shape and evidence the impact of this pilot model.

This is an exciting opportunity to be at the heart of innovation in supported accommodation - ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, person-centred environment and brings experience from the criminal justice, social care, or mental health sectors.

We particularly welcome applications from individuals with lived experience of mental ill health or the criminal justice system.

This is a site-based role, requiring availability across a 7-day shift pattern including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.

About You

To succeed in the role of Project Lead, you will need:

• Proven track record in leading an outcome focused project within the non-profit or criminal justice sector.
• Experience managing a team and driving service performance in a care environment
• Strong decision-making skills and the ability to work independently under pressure
• A collaborative and compassionate approach
• Experience with community engagement and building external networks
• A working understanding of safeguarding, health and safety, and risk management in a social care context

About Us

As an established charity which provides high quality accommodation and support for adults living with enduring mental health conditions and complex needs. Our purpose is to help people on their journey to mental wellness, purpose, and independence. Supported housing provides crucial help to some of the most vulnerable people in our country. It can have an enormous positive impact on an individual's quality of life: from their physical and mental health to their engagement with the community.

Other roles you may have experience of could be; Project Manager, Criminal Justice Project Lead, Mental Health Project Coordinator, Housing Services Manager, Reintegration Support Manager, Supported Housing Project Lead, Community Justice Manager, Care Services Manager, Senior Support Worker, Offender Rehabilitation Coordinator, Social Care Team Leader, etc....

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

YMCA Wirral is searching for a dedicated Night Services Manager to lead our team of night owls. Our hostel, supported living and outreach services operate around the clock to protect and support some of our communities most vulnerable individuals. If you are someone your team can rely on to make sharp, intelligent decisions, even in the smallest hours of the day, we would love to hear from you.

As our Night Services Manager, you’ll be the most senior person on-site during the night shift, responsible for overseeing care delivery, safeguarding the wellbeing of residents, and guiding the team with clarity, confidence, and compassion.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Providing essential support to people facing homelessness and crisis.
• Hold responsibility for creating a safe, secure, and well-run service during the night.
• Handling challenging situations with a calm and measured approach.
• Hold responsibility for the security of the building and the completion of various housekeeping and maintenance tasks.

Who We’re Looking For:

• A strong communicator with excellent IT knowledge and good people management skills.
• Someone with experience in health, homelessness, criminal justice or social care or other relevant experience.
• A practical, hands-on individual with a level head.
• Someone with deep empathy for people experiencing hardship.

We are a growing and vibrant team of professionals who work hard to improve the lives of those who need it most. If you’re ready to step up and take on a challenge that really matters, we would love to hear from you.

Our vision is for a world where everyone experiencing a mental health issue receives support and respect. Join our passionate, dedicated team and make a difference today.

About the role

Solent Mind is the provider for Wellbeing services across the New Forest from bases in Hythe (Marcella House), New Milton (The Hollies) and in various community settings. 

Alongside the Community Wellbeing and ‘Keep Well’ service we have a team of Wellbeing Advisors and peer support staff who are supporting the delivery of mental health and wellbeing services within the Primary Care Networks across the New Forest area.

• Hours: 30 hours per week (Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm)
• Location: New Forest Wellbeing Service

About you 

We are looking for a qualified Mental Health First Aider who has experience in managing teams and services.

You will have problem-solving skills, alongside the ability to engage and develop relationships with key stakeholders, as well as able to engage and motivate colleagues and partners.

About us

We're Solent Mind! We’re part of a network of over 100 Local Minds who tailor trusted mental health services to our communities. We set our own strategies and partnerships and rely on the support of our brilliant local fundraisers.

We collaborate with Mind to make sure their pioneering campaigns, information and research make a difference in Hampshire. Together, we make better mental health possible both locally and nationally.

Benefits 

Our Gold Award for Workplace Wellbeing Index 2022/2023 and being a Mindful Employer reflects our commitment to our lively, friendly teams. We empower our people to have a voice, discover new opportunities and develop their careers. In addition to knowing you’re making a difference, you’ll also enjoy excellent benefits, including:

• Flexible working to promote a healthy work/life balance
• 25 days’ annual leave rising incrementally to 30 days per year (pro rata for part-time)
• Pension plan
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket and cycle-to-work scheme

If you’re ready to join the fight for mental health, visit our website to find out more and apply.  

Closing date: Sunday 17 August 2025 (11.59pm).

Interview date: w/c Monday 1 September 2025.

Posts may be subject to a relevant DBS check.

Solent Mind welcomes applications from all the communities in which we work. Appointments are made on merit.

Registered Charity No: 1081116. Registered with Limited Liability in England and Wales No: 4004500.

Birth Companions is a charity that supports women experiencing multiple disadvantage during the perinatal period in the community in London and the southeast, and in prisons across the country.

Our work aims to improve the lives of mothers and babies by:

- improving the mental health and well-being of pregnant women and new mother
- enabling new mothers to give their babies the best possible start in life
- empowering women to fulfil their potential through engagement
- driving improvements in the local and national policy and practice that impacts on mothers and their babies.

By working towards these aims, we hope that all women who face disadvantage and inequality during this crucial point in their lives will have the support they need to give their baby the best possible start, and to fulfil their own potential, whatever their circumstances. 

Birth Companions’ values have shaped the organisation’s approach from the outset and are still as important to us as ever. We are a women’s organisation built on feminist principles, delivering woman-to-woman support. Choice, empowerment and protecting women’s rights have always been central to the way we work. Through the work of our staff and trained volunteers we offer practical and emotional support before, during and after birth. We work in a woman-centred way that is trauma-informed, flexible and non-judgemental, basing our support on what a woman tells us she needs. 

Work across our frontline services shows us what matters to women, and where things can and should be better in the care they receive from others. Based on these insights, we commission academic and peer-led research and direct the attention of local and national policy-makers, commissioners and service providers to what needs to change, and how. Everyone at Birth Companions plays a role in this. Communication and collaboration between our frontline practitioners, policy and engagement staff and the women in our Lived Experience Team means we are able to identify and monitor issues and themes and draw on learning in order to feed them into conversations with senior stakeholders across maternity, criminal justice, social services and immigration. In this way we ensure our policy and influencing work is rooted in the day-to-day experiences of women and what will make most difference to them and their babies. 

The Criminal Justice Services Manager will manage and develop all aspects of Birth Companions’ criminal justice-based services and line-manage the criminal justice services Coordinators, (currently three staff members but this likely to increase as we expand our services).

They will develop and maintain strategic partnerships with other relevant agencies and ensure the successful delivery of services through internal monitoring and evaluation, external evaluation and the charity’s governance structures.

The Criminal Justice Services Manager will be responsible for contributing to the development and implementation of new prison and wider criminal justice system-based services through stakeholder engagement and service design where opportunities are identified.

The Criminal Justice Services Manager will also contribute to the policy, engagement and strategic work of the organisation where appropriate.

UNISON’s HR team are looking for an HR Operations Manager to lead a key administration team and project that will create an HR Shared Service function. This isn’t just about systems, it’s about improving internal and external customer experiences, and streamlining processes for long-term impact.

About this job

You’ll lead a full redesign of our in-house administration practices and workflows, including implementing a Shared Service technology solution to deliver an improved customer experience and internal processes. Managing a small team of administrators and collaborating with other key HR stakeholders, sound leadership and communication skills will be key to success.

Your focus will include:

• End to end review of all HR administrative processes across all stages of the employee lifecycle, including recruitment and onboarding.
• Implementation of an HR help desk technology solution / HR service management system.
• Streamlining administration to support better, faster and more focused SLA’s.
• Creating measurable data sets and reports to allow for practical solutions to be developed in line with organisational needs and trends.
• Collaborating with stakeholders to co-create lasting change.
• Developing clear, practical tools to assist with training others and creating self-service solutions.

This is both an operational and strategic role with hands-on delivery and real, evidencable impact.

About you

We’re looking for someone with strong HR process expertise, gained from a Shared Service environment. A collaborative mindset and experience driving change, you should be confident working with data, influencing stakeholders, and navigating complexity with a practical, solution-focused approach.

You’ll bring:

• Proven experience leading and managing in an HR Shared Service function.
• A track record of improving processes and delivering change.
• Excellent stakeholder skills, especially with senior leaders, managers and union reps.
• The ability to use data to inform strategy.
• Knowledge of HR help desk technology solutions / HR service management systems.
• A values-led, adaptable and proactive working style.
• Patience and adaptability to work within traditional or evolving structures, and an understanding that change often involves many voices and perspectives.
• Experience working with trade union representatives, ideally in a not-for-profit or similar environments (desirable).

A full job description and person specification can be found attached below.

About UNISON

UNISON is the UK’s leading public services trade union, with over 1.3 million members working in the public sector, private, voluntary and community sectors and in the energy services. We employ approximately 1,200 staff, with around 370 at our national centre in Euston in central London and the remainder in our 12 regions across the UK, including Northern Ireland.

UNISON is a dynamic, progressive union, committed to equality. We encourage men and women of all ages, Black and minority ethnic groups, disabled people, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people to work with us.

Demand for our specialist tutoring programmes for Children Looked After, those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children (UASC) continues to increase and we are seeking a dedicated and effective Partnerships Account Manager to join our team and support the increased demand for our provision and the continued scaling of our organisation.

The Organisation

Equal Education is a social enterprise working to improve outcomes and narrow the attainment gap for disadvantaged and under-resourced learners, including Children Looked After, those with SEND, and unaccompanied asylum seeking children. We have over 13 years’ experience delivering 1:1 tuition, working with hundreds of Schools and Local Authority partners across the country, reaching hundreds of pupils annually. 

As a member of the Fair Education Alliance, we believe in providing meaningful educational provision to students whose needs may not be best met within a traditional classroom environment, those who aren’t currently accessing education, or who benefit from additional 1:1 support. We work with over 400 qualified teachers to provide academic, subject specialised and individual tutoring and mentoring for children of all ages. Tutors provide pastoral care and work with pupils to increase engagement and attainment. Our programmes will help the students to overcome barriers to learning, help them build trusted relationships, increase their aspirations, and fulfil their potential. We are passionate about our cause and are looking for people who are motivated by a strong desire to address educational inequality and improve outcomes. 

What is the Role?

The Partnerships Account Manager will drive business growth by securing new partnerships and managing key client accounts across designated regions. With a focus on building and sustaining long-term local council and school relationships, the Partnerships Account Manager will work closely with clients to understand their needs, expand our service offerings, and ensure the highest levels of satisfaction. The majority of our key client relationships are with local councils, so a knowledge of how they operate would be very useful. 

The post holder will have the opportunity to line manage junior member(s) of the team, who provide essential bid-writing and administrative support to facilitate efficient and effective client management.

This role would suit someone with proven ability to operate effectively in scaling organisations where processes are still being defined. This role suits someone who is adaptable, resilient, and confident working at pace amid change.

The role will be suited to those who have worked within an education setting and held the title: SENCO, Head of Department, Advisory Teacher, Inclusion Coordinator or Designated Teacher. The role will also be suited to those who have worked within a Local Authority setting and held the title: Commissioning Officer, Senior Case Officer, Case Officer. 

This role is ideal for an ambitious, client-focused individual, passionate about creating positive outcomes for under-resourced students. If you’re ready to contribute to a growing organisation that’s making a difference, we’d love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities:

1. Client Acquisition and Relationship Management

   • Proactively seek new business opportunities within assigned regions to grow the client base.

   • Develop and maintain strong, positive relationships with key clients, ensuring their evolving needs are met and service offerings are aligned.

   • Lead regular client review meetings to discuss progress, gather feedback, and identify additional service opportunities.

   • Manage internal relationships to ensure what matters to clients is communicated internally using the proper channels, to allow for effective delivery by our Operations teams. 

   • Maintain good internal stakeholder relationships with our Operations teams to ensure high client demands are balanced with our processes and team capacity. 

2. Strategic Planning and Development

   • Collaborate with Senior Leaders to develop strategies for client retention and growth.

   • Work closely with the wider partnerships team to align on strategic objectives and ensure seamless service delivery across functions.

   • Participate in client and industry events to represent the organisation, expand networks, and identify new business opportunities.

3. Performance Monitoring and Reporting

   • Monitor client engagement, satisfaction levels, and service outcomes; produce regular progress reports for management.

   • Oversee tracking and analysis of client-related statistics to ensure targets are met and clients receive impactful, value-driven service.

   • Manage and track client data and prospect pipelines using CRM systems, ensuring accuracy and up-to-date information.

   • Report to SLT on accounts, Tenders, Bids, client meetings on a regular basis

   • Be curious to explore our Salesforce system data, understanding and interpreting delivery and impact data 

4. Team Management and Support Coordination

   • Lead, mentor, and manage junior members of the team focused on bid application writing, tender management, and client-related administration.

   • Support direct reports in producing and reviewing high-quality application documents and responses that align with client requirements and enhance our partnership outcomes.

   • Provide oversight to ensure that administrative tasks are completed efficiently, supporting smooth client interactions and consistent follow-through.

   • Work with other area leaders, such as our ‘Allocations’ and Recruitment teams to ensure we can fulfil referrals

   • Foster a strong working relationship between the Partnerships team and Recruitment, to ensure our application strategy is informed by tutor availability. 

5. Bid Management and Process Improvement

   • Oversee the preparation and submission of tenders and bid applications, working closely with administrators to ensure high-quality and timely submissions.

   • Continuously review and improve internal processes to optimise bid management, client onboarding, and service delivery.

   • Report on bid submission performance, review client feedback to continuously improve. 

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Detailed knowledge of the UK Education Sector. 

• Experience working in the education sector or with local authorities, particularly in roles involving SEND or children’s services.

• Proven track record in client relationship management, with experience in sales or partnership development roles.

• Strong communication skills, particularly in face-to-face and telephone interactions, with the ability to build rapport quickly and maintain long-lasting relationships.

• Experience managing a small team, providing leadership, direction, and support to ensure high-performance standards.

• High level of empathy and commitment to supporting under-resourced and underserved communities.

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet both short- and long-term deadlines effectively.

• Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) for tracking client data, leads, and progress.

• Proactive, problem-solving mindset, able to address issues independently and provide client-focused solutions.

• Able to work in a high pressure environment, whilst taking initiative, we would want the postholder to ask for support when needed.ed

Desirable:

• Exceptional written communication skills, with proven confidence in drafting, editing, and refining persuasive content across a variety of formats. Experience in bid and tender writing or grant applications is advantageous, though a background in producing compelling written materials for diverse purposes is equally valued.

General

The job is subject to having the right to work in the UK, two professional references and a basic DBS check.

Why Equal Education?

• Competitive salary

• Investment in you - we believe in developing from within and offer our team training opportunities and personalised development plans, as well as the chance to get involved with lots of projects across the organisation.

• Flexible, hybrid work environment with regular opportunities for in-person client engagement.

• Working alongside a passionate team working to make a positive impact in the lives of under-resourced children and young people across the UK.

• Staff wellbeing benefits such as ClassPass membership, access to discounts via Perks at Work, eyecare vouchers, regular wellbeing sessions and team social events.

At Equal Education, you are the expert. We give you the space, the support and the technology to be your best. The rest is up to you.

Being you at Equal Education 

Every young person we support is unique and our team isn’t any different. Our differences are our strength when it comes to providing a tailored, human approach to education. We are proud of our people and provide an environment where everyone can bring their most authentic self to work. 

Our recruitment practices are carried out in line with equal opportunities and all candidates will be reviewed fairly regardless of age, gender reassignment, sex, race, religion, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic.