Strategic development officer jobs

The Head of Strategic Communications will lead strategic communications at ECU, building on our track record of shaping media narratives around the economy and working across multiple campaigns and programmes.

As our Head of Strategic Communications, you will devise and deliver impactful communications strategies to shape the way the UK media covers economic policy. You’ll help ensure that UK media debates are grounded in robust and innovative economic thinking and rise to the scale and urgency of current societal challenges.

If you believe that media and public debate on economics could be improved - and if you have the strategic communications track record to make that happen - then we would like to hear from you.

The Finance Director is responsible for all aspects of the group's finances (National Federation of Music Societies, trading as Making Music and its trading subsidiary), to ensure accurate and complete recording of all financial transactions, adherence to internal controls and procedures, and timely and effective analysis and reporting to the Chief Executive, Senior Management Team and other budget holders, the Finance & Compliance Committee and the Board of Trustees.

The Finance Director post is an integral part of the charity's senior management team, working closely with the Chief Executive, the Deputy CEO Advocacy and Lobbying and the Marketing Director, setting the strategic direction of the organisation and ensuring it has the financial systems and resources to implement its strategy.

The role line-manages and oversees the work of the Finance Manager who runs the day-to-day financial accounting processes, with the help of two Finance Administrators.

The role also leads on supporting members with finances, e.g. leading Treasurers' events, relevant website resources and responding to finance-related consultations.

The 2.5 days (18.75 hours) per week can be worked flexibly, and at least some of them from home, by agreement with your line manager. We would expect you to spend at least 1 days each week in our London office in Moorgate.

This is a friendly team, and our bright and lively office is located in one of the buzziest areas of London, with excellent transport links and nice places to spend your lunchtimes or meet friends after work.

Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Implementation

Partner with the CEO to translate IMO’s strategic plan into a clear organisational roadmap with defined milestones, priorities and success measures. You will work collaboratively with the CEO to agree the order in which elements of the strategy should be prioritised, before turning this into the roadmap, milestones and delivery framework.

Work with the CEO and trustees to:

• Define strategic workstreams
• Establish measurable organisational KPIs
• Identify capability gaps and development needs
• Develop a structured strategy implementation framework that enables effective delivery across the organisation

Operating Model Design

Partner with the CEO to co-design IMO’s future operating model. This is a collaborative process, you will work closely with the CEO from the outset to shape the vision, ensuring the model reflects organisational priorities and is set up for successful implementation.

This will include:

• Programme structure and service architecture
• Governance and decision-making frameworks
• Internal processes and ways of working
• Data, reporting and impact measurement systems
• Team structures and capability requirements

Ensure the model supports sustainable growth, stronger partnerships and improved impact outcomes.

Business Planning and Financial Modelling

Develop a clear strategic business case underpinning the new strategy. This will include:

• Financial projections
• Income pipeline modelling
• Investment requirements
• Scenario planning for growth and risk

Provide analysis and recommendations to support board-level decision making.

Programme & Transformation Management

Act as programme lead for key strategic initiatives, including:

• Scaling of youth employability programmes
• Strengthening organisational infrastructure
• Development of a standalone mental health service

Develop and manage a comprehensive implementation plan, ensuring:

• Clear timelines
• Resource alignment
• Risk management
• Delivery accountability

Maintain a live transformation risk register and ensure issues are addressed proactively.

Stakeholder Engagement & Organisational Change

Work closely with the CEO to support organisational alignment around the new strategy. Responsibilities include:

• Facilitating internal workshops and planning sessions
• Supporting senior staff to translate strategy into operational delivery
• Communicating progress to trustees and key partners
• Managing organisational change and maintaining momentum

Act as a trusted advisor and sounding board to the CEO throughout the transformation process.

Qualifications 

Formal project management qualification (PRINCE2, Agile or equivalent) - Desirable

Experience 

Proven experience leading strategy implementation, organisational transformation or operating model design - Essential

Experience working in growing or evolving organisations where structures, systems or programmes needed to be developed or scaled - Essential

Demonstrated success managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders and limited resources - Essential

Experience developing business cases, strategic plans or financial models to support organisational decision making - Essential

Strong track record of delivering initiatives from concept through to implementation - Essential

Experience working in the charity, social enterprise or public sector environment - Desirable

Experience working closely with CEOs, boards or senior leadership teams - Desirable

Understanding of youth services, employability, public health or community development sectors - Desirable

Skills/Attributes

Ability to translate high-level strategy into practical operational delivery - Essential

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills - Essential

Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels - Essential

Highly organised and able to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously - Essential

Comfortable operating with high levels of autonomy and responsibility - Essential

A pragmatic, solutions-focused mindset - Essential

As the school looks ahead to its next chapter, philanthropy will be central to expanding opportunity, enhancing facilities, and ensuring that RGS remains a place where talent and ambition can flourish. To support this vision, we are seeking an exceptional Director of Development to lead a modern, strategic, and inspiring development programme.  This post is funded by The Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe Foundation CIO (Charity number: 1179234).

The Director of Development will lead the design, delivery, and growth of a comprehensive fundraising strategy that supports the school’s long‑term ambitions. This is a senior leadership role requiring strategic insight, operational discipline, and the ability to build meaningful relationships across the RGS community.

A major priority will be to refresh, rebuild, and modernise the school’s fundraising data, creating a reliable, insight‑driven foundation from which to plan and execute fundraising activity. Alongside this, the postholder will lead a transformational capital appeal to deliver a new state‑of‑the‑art STEM facility by 2030 — a project that will shape the educational experience of future generations.

The role also includes developing a legacy giving programme, expanding regular giving among parents, and introducing innovative school‑based fundraising initiatives that engage pupils, staff, alumni, and the wider community

The Communications Department inspires, informs and engages the public by showcasing Alzheimer’s Research UK’s mission, impact and scientific progress across all channels. As part of this, the Content Team plays a vital role in creating clear, engaging and accessible materials that help audiences understand the importance of dementia research, the breakthroughs being made, and the change we are striving to achieve.

The Content Officer supports this work by producing accurate and engaging content that strengthens our story telling and supports our priorities. It contributes to the success of major campaigns. The role helps create a range of written, visual and multimedia materials that explain complex topics — including research, policy, partnerships and fundraising activity — in a compelling and accessible way.

Working collaboratively with colleagues across Policy, Corporate Partnerships, Brand, Strategic Marketing, Social Media, Digital and in the Communications team, the Content Officer ensures that content is aligned, consistent and impactful. The postholder also contributes to the smooth delivery of content production and publication processes, helping to maintain high standards and a coherent organisational narrative.

Key Responsibilities:

Delivery and production

· Develop high‑quality content across formats (e.g., explainers, briefings, blogs, supporter materials, video and digital assets) to support research, impact, policy and partnership storytelling.

· Produce accurate, engaging content for corporate and philanthropic partnerships, including supporter‑facing materials and impact stories.

· Contribute to major brand and campaign moments (e.g., World Alzheimer’s Month) through ideas, drafting and coordinated delivery.

· Develop multimedia assets — including infographics, short videos and visual explainers — by drafting briefs and supporting supplier liaison.

· Under the direction of the Content Manager, commission and manage external suppliers (e.g., designers, videographers, editors), ensuring briefs are clear and outputs meet ARUK’s brand, accessibility and quality standards.

Research and information support

· Gather and verify information from colleagues, partners and subject‑matter experts to ensure clarity and evidence‑based messaging.

· Translate complex information (e.g., research, policy or partnership updates) into clear, audience‑appropriate drafts and outlines.

· Support development of evergreen content frameworks and thematic content packages for campaigns and partnerships.

· Use audience insight and performance learnings to inform content development.

Cross‑Team collaboration

· Work collaboratively across Communications — including Social Media, Policy, Corporate Partnerships, Brand, Strategic Marketing, Research Communications and Digital — to meet shared content needs.

· Contribute content expertise into cross‑team planning to support integrated communications activity.

Administration, planning and coordination

· Maintain and update content across ARUK platforms (ResourceSpace, News & Views), ensuring information is accurate, current and well‑organised.

· Use SEO principles and performance data to shape content recommendations, working with the Content Manager and Metrics & Insights team to monitor KPIs and identify optimisation opportunities.

· Support improvements to content processes and workflows across the team.

· Assist with project coordination, helping manage timelines, track progress and support delivery within agreed budgets.

Quality, and tone  

· Ensure content is accurate, accessible and aligned with ARUK’s brand, tone of voice, editorial and ethical standards.

· Apply good judgement within defined areas of responsibility and ensure strong attention to detail.

What This Role Delivers

· High quality content that supports policy influence, corporate partnerships and integrated campaigns

· Clear, accessible information for supporters, partners and the public.

· Consistent content that strengthens the charity’s narrative across Policy, Corporate and Campaign channels.

· Effective collaboration with teams across Communications.

Knowledge, skills and experience needed:

· Experience producing written or multimedia content for digital channels.

· Experience developing content related to health, policy charity sector or corporate partnerships.

· Experience building and managing relationships with others. 

· Experience of briefing and managing external agencies on the delivery of projects. 

· An understanding of how to adapt content for different audiences and channels. 

· Educated to degree level or with relevant experience.

· Excellent writing, editing and content creation skills.

· Ability to communicate complex ideas simply and clearly e.g. policy topics, science or partnership activity – simply and clearly.

· Strong organisation, time management and prioritisation skills.

· Collaborative working style, with confidence engaging with internal teams and external partners.

· Proactive and improvement-focused, contributing ideas for content development.

· Sound judgement within defined areas of responsibility.

· Strong attention to accuracy and detail

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £31,000 per annum, plus benefits.

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 10th May 2026, with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website. 

How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure.  Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope. 

Transparency International (UK) are looking for a Research and Investigations Officer.

You will be responsible for producing new knowledge, insights and high-quality written material, at pace, to support our strategic advocacy objectives.

You will keep abreast of developments in their field, and build expertise to inform solutions for us to advocate to key stakeholders, particularly those in parliaments and governments across the UK.

The Research and Investigations Officer will report to the Head of Research and Investigations and perform this within the UK Programme, focusing on corruption in the UK.

What will I be doing?

• building and maintaining a technical knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, policies and procedures to advise and support advocacy colleagues in their engagement with key external stakeholders

• translating findings and policy positions into high-impact outputs to advance TI-UK’s advocacy objectives, including reports, briefings, blogs, and draft lines for media comment

• contributing to the development of new and impactful solutions to the problems we identify through our research and investigations

• horizon scanning for significant developments in strategic areas of interest for TI-UK

• supporting the delivery of cutting-edge research and OSINT investigations, both within TI-UK and in partnership with our allies in media and civil society

• developing, maintaining, improving and promoting tools to support TI-UK’s strategic objectives, including the Open Access lobbying transparency platform

Who we are looking for?

• a first degree in in social science, a similar discipline, or equivalent experience

• up to date with trends, developments, and best practice in UK politics

• strong written communication and verbal presentation skills with ability to deliver high quality briefings, reports and presentations with minimal supervision

• experience in interpreting laws, policies and regulations and providing specialist advice and guidance to others (desirable)

Why TI-UK?

Transparency International is a global movement sharing one vision: a world in which government politics, business and the daily lives of people are free of corruption. Transparency International UK is the UK national chapter of this movement. We work with the UK and devolved governments, parliamentarians, civil society and the private sector to tackle corruption at home, addressing the UK’s global corruption footprint and helping multinational companies prevent corruption by operating with integrity. We are also home to two major global programmes tackling corruption in the Defence and Security and the Global Health sectors on behalf of the wider Transparency International movement.

What can you expect from us?

• A collaborative, flexible and friendly working environment where you will be provided with:

• A competitive salary for our sector

• Up to 6% contributory pension

• A 35-hour working week for full-time roles with flexibility to support your work/life balance. Our approach to blended working (full details on our website) allows you to benefit from regular connection and collaboration. You are also entitled to submit a flexible working request in line with our policy.

• Generous annual leave: 28 days plus statutory public / bank holidays as well as discretionary a gifted winter holiday break of three to four days each December between Christmas and New Year

• Enhanced leave beyond statutory requirements to support your parental or caring responsibilities

• Family friendly policies

• Additional leave to support your volunteering or community service

• Employee Assistance Programme (Aviva) to support your physical, mental & financial health.

• Training and Development related to your role

• Season ticket loan/ Cycle to work scheme

Hours: 37.5 hours per week (excluding breaks)

Days: To be worked over 5 days, Monday to Friday, with core hours between 8am – 6pm

Contract: 18 month fixed-term contract in the first instance (subject to the successful completion of a 6-month probationary period)

Responsible to: Bruce Poole, Senior Strategic Lead for Wellbeing, Health and Social Care

Place of work: Salford CVS’ offices in Eccles, Salford, M30 0FN 

We are seeking to recruit to a brand new post and are looking for an experienced and strategically minded person to strengthen Salford CVS’s strategic VCSE leadership role within Salford.

Main purposes of the post

To provide strategic leadership for Salford CVS’s health and social care work, ensuring the VCSE sector is influential, represented and embedded within key strategic partnerships, boards and system-wide initiatives across Salford.

The postholder will work closely with the Senior Strategic Lead for Wellbeing, Health and Social Care to shape strategic agendas, strengthen cross-sector relationships and ensure VCSE voices help influence the city’s long-term plans relating to Health and Social Care.

For more information, please download the full Job Pack.

How to apply

Please download and complete our application form via the ‘Apply’ button.

Closing date: Noon on Tuesday 12th May 2026.

Interview date: Friday 22nd May 2026, in person at Salford CVS’ offices.

The Partnership Development Team at Alzheimer’s Research UK prides itself on delivering sector-leading partnerships. We are a friendly, collaborative, and ambitious team driven by our goal to fund vital dementia research and ultimately find a cure for dementia. 

Our Partnership Development Officer is responsible for establishing and managing some of our corporate partnerships under the guidance of the Partnership Development Manager (PDM). This role will hold and develop strong long-term relationships with key stakeholders within some of our highest-level corporate donors.

You’ll have some experience in relationship management and project management skills, as well as attention to detail and an organised approach to a busy and varied workload. These skills will have been developed in either a charity or corporate role.

The Partnership Development Team sits within the Corporate Fundraising function, which is part of the Philanthropy and Partnerships Directorate. We collaborate closely with all teams across the charity, so communication, collaboration, and strong relationship skills are essential.

We are lucky to work with some fantastic UK-based and international companies who recognise our passion, creativity, and ability to work flexibly to achieve their CSR aims while supporting ARUK’s strategic goals. Awesome brands like The Perfume Shop, Omaze, Warburtons and Cadbury are just some of the organisations that have joined our mission to find a cure for dementia. 

Key Responsibilities:

Under the guidance of the PDM, hold responsibility for the account management for our corporate supporters. Acting as the day-to-day contact point for the company and its staff, overseeing all partnership activity, and ensuring the highest standard of supporter care at all times.

· Work closely with the PDM to implement new partnership set-ups, create and execute partnership engagement and fundraising calendars and reporting methods.

· Respond promptly and professionally to your accounts, ensuring high-level customer service is maintained from across the charity.

· With the support of the PDM, create and support Partner Charity Committees and Ambassador networks.

· Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including Senior Leadership Team.

· Effectively communicate and influence internal and external stakeholders.

· Offer extensive, creative fundraising ideas to support partner companies, using support from the PDM and the wider Partnership Development Team.

· Assist with the organisation of innovative, engaging corporate fundraising events and attend events where relevant.

· Ensure partnership activity follows policies, procedures and regulations; and that each partnership follows the legal and accounting rules ARUK has in place.

· Ensure effective management of all partnership activity, clearly communicating progress.

· Support the PDM to identify and pursue opportunities to broaden and lengthen relationships, creating multifaceted partnerships.

· Together with the PDM, work closely with the communications team to create clear partnership communication plans and ensure corporate fundraising press opportunities are maximised and the impact is communicated clearly to the partner company.

· Achieve agreed financial and non-financial targets, to include partnership income and stewardship goals. Monitor and track quarterly changes against financial goals and ensure this is effectively communicated both externally and internally to inform quarterly re-forecasts.

· Work proactively with employees at all levels within the companies you are supporting to maximise potential income.

Support the PDM and Senior Partnership Development Manager (SPDM) in executing the corporate fundraising strategy for ARUK, to increase the team’s income.
 

· Work with the PDM to ensure that the most appropriate use is made of internal and external contacts to support the work of ARUK, identifying networking, influencing and engagement opportunities.

· Ensure the operational delivery of the Partnership Development Team’s strategy through your partnerships.

· Ensure new business prospects within partnerships are identified and passed to the New Business Team.

· Undertake project work as requested by the PDM to increase engagement with ARUK from within our corporate partners and develop Alzheimer’s Research UK’s offering to our partners. 

· Share any learnings with the team.​

Represent the charity professionally in a high-level corporate context
 

· When representing the charity externally, influence and engage external contacts at all levels to maximise corporate fundraising potential.

· Maintain up-to-date knowledge of developments within the dementia research field.

· Communicate confidently about the research we are funding and dementia/ARUK more broadly. Including presenting to large audiences.

Knowledge, skills and experience needed:

· Building and maintaining high-level relationships through networking and influence both internally and externally. 

· Confidence working with Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.

· Ability to ensure effective reporting with partnerships when tracking charity income via various sources, including our CRM system.

· Ability to execute projects from beginning to end under the guidance of a line manager.

· Experience in tracking income and identifying any risks or upside in target attainment.

· Good account management and relationship management skills in either a charity or corporate role; transferable sales or marketing skills also relevant.

· Effective planning, prioritisation and organisational skills with excellent attention to detail.

· Strong communication skills, with the ability and confidence to present to corporate audiences.

· You work well as part of a team but are proactive and can work independently.

· A confident and friendly manner; would feel at ease representing the charity to high-level external contacts.

· Willingness and ability to travel independently in the UK and to work outside of regular office hours when needed.

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £32,000 per annum, plus benefits

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 26th April 2026, with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website.

How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.

About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure.  Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope. 

Hours: 37.5 hours per week (excluding breaks)

Days: To be worked over 5 days, Monday to Friday, with core hours between 8am – 6pm

Contract: Initial 12 months fixed-term contract (with option to extend), subject to the successful completion of a 6-month probationary period

Responsible to: Senior Strategic Lead (People and Place)

Place of work: Salford CVS’ offices in Eccles, Salford, M30 0FN

We are seeking to recruit to a brand-new post and are looking for an experienced and strategically minded person to strengthen Salford CVS’s strategic VCSE leadership role within Salford.

Main purposes of the post

To provide strategic leadership for Salford CVS’s place-based work, ensuring the VCSE sector is influential, represented and embedded within key strategic partnerships, boards and system-wide initiatives across Salford. The postholder will work closely with the Senior Strategic Lead for People and Place to shape strategic agendas, strengthen cross-sector relationships and ensure VCSE voices help influence the city’s long-term plans relating to Pride in Place, regeneration, housing, social value, climate action, culture, and wider place-based priorities.

For more information, please download the full Job Pack.

How to apply

Please download and complete our application form via the ‘Apply’ button.

Closing date: Noon on Wednesday 13th May 2026.

Interview date: Thursday 21st May 2026 at Salford CVS offices in Eccles.

Due to educational commitments and a strategic review of our services, our Founding Director is stepping back from leading the organisation. This creates an exciting opportunity for a Managing Director to join a women-led movement shaped by lived experience.

Working closely with the Founder, Board, and team, you will take the lead in implementing our strategy, turning vision into action, and ensuring our work is sustainable, impactful, and ready to grow. You will play a central role in securing financial stability, strengthening income streams, and building a resilient organisation for the future.

We are looking for a proactive and experienced leader who can strengthen systems, processes, and team culture, while supporting and developing a small, dedicated team. This role is not just about leadership, but about working alongside others - someone who is human, approachable, and a genuine team player.

You will value collaboration and co-production and feel comfortable working in a culture rooted in trust, flexibility, and compassion. You will bring the confidence to represent the organisation externally, alongside the humility to listen, learn, and grow with the team.

This UK-based, remote role sits within a small, friendly organisation committed to reflection, learning, and continual improvement. You will help shape how we evolve, ensuring we deliver safe, high-quality, trauma-informed, and gender-sensitive support for women affected by their own or someone else's gambling addiction.

We are seeking someone who aligns with our values, understands the realities women face in a male-dominated space, and can lead with humanity and humility.

The Managing Director will be accountable for:

• Strategic direction
• Financial sustainability
• Safeguarding and risk oversight
• Commissioner relationships
• Organisational culture and values

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead development and delivery of the 3-year strategic plan.
• Ensure organisational growth aligns with mission and peer-led ethos.
• Identify opportunities for funding, partnerships and influence.
• Ensure services evolve in line with women’s needs and policy context.

Governance & Risk Oversight

• Maintain oversight of safeguarding and clinical governance.
• Ensure robust risk management and compliance systems are in place.
• Report quarterly to the Board on performance, finance and risk.
• Ensure Delegated Authority Framework is implemented effectively.
• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Financial Sustainability

• Accountable for organisational budget and reserves strategy.
• Oversee funding pipeline and income diversification.
• Negotiate and sign contracts within Board-approved limits.
• Ensure staffing model remains financially sustainable.

Leadership & Organisational Culture

• Lead and support staff team.
• Maintain trauma-informed, women-centred organisational culture.
• Ensure appropriate delegation and clear accountability.
• Protect staff wellbeing and prevent executive overload.

External Representation & Influence

• Represent the organisation with commissioners, funders and partners.
• Build relationships with VCSE organisations, OHID, NHSE, ICBs, Local Authorities and sector bodies.
• Position the organisation as a credible specialist provider.
• Support policy and influence activity at strategic level.

Board Relationship

• Work closely with the Chair
• Provide clear and transparent reporting.
• Support Board development and portfolio governance.
• Ensure Board receives timely information on risk and performance.

Person Specification

Essential Experience

• Senior leadership experience within VCSE, health or social care.
• Experience in women-specific services.
• Experience managing budgets and financial sustainability including evidence of successful fundraising and income diversification.
• Experience working with statutory commissioners.
• Experience overseeing safeguarding in complex services.
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in addiction, gambling harm or mental health sectors.
• Experience within CIC or charity governance structures.
• Experience influencing policy or commissioning frameworks.
• Understanding and appreciation of lived experience communities and peer support spaces

Essential Skills

• Strategic thinking and planning
• Financial acumen
• Strong governance understanding
• Stakeholder diplomacy
• Ability to delegate effectively
• Crisis management capability
• Clear written and verbal communication

We kindly ask applicants to avoid submitting AI generated responses to encourage a real sense of who you are. 
 

Our operational days are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. We operate flexibly but our regular team meetings are held on a Wednesday and this role is expected to be accessible for our staff within these days. 

An acquired brain injury can happen to anyone at any time. The impact on individuals, their friends and family, can be devastating. Headway Luton is here to help those impacted by an ABI move forward with their life. 

Headway Luton is a registered charity that provides support, advice and services to people with an acquired brain injury and to their families and carers.

We deliver centre-based activities and community support services aimed at helping people live as independently as possible, maximise their potential, and improve their quality of life.

Our work is rooted in person-centred care, dignity, respect and inclusion. We collaborate closely with local partners, funders and the community to ensure that our services remain relevant, accessible and sustainable.

Role overview

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for the overall leadership, management and development of Headway Luton.

They will ensure that the charity delivers high-quality, person-centred services in line with regulatory standards, while working with the Board of Trustees to secure the organisation’s long-term sustainability and growth.

The CEO will promote a culture that reflects our core values:

• Person-centred care
• Dignity and respect
• Safeguarding and safety
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Professional standards

Key responsibilities

1. Strategic leadership

• Lead the development and delivery of the charity’s strategic direction.
• Identify opportunities for growth, partnerships and service development.
• Ensure services continue to meet the needs of the local community.

2. Governance and board engagement

• Work closely with the Board of Trustees to support effective governance.
• Attend trustee meetings and provide clear and timely reports.
• Ensure compliance with the Charity Commission, Companies House and relevant legislation.
• Support the planning and delivery of the Annual General Meeting (AGM).

3. Service delivery & operations

• Oversee the delivery of safe, effective and high-quality services.
• Ensure compliance with Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards.
• Monitor service performance and outcomes.
• Ensure safeguarding is embedded across all services.

4. People leadership

• Lead, support and develop staff and volunteers.
• Line manage senior staff and oversee performance management processes.
• Promote a positive, inclusive and collaborative working culture.
• Ensure the appropriate recruitment, training and development of staff.

5. Financial management & sustainability

• Oversee budgets and financial performance in partnership with the Board.
• Ensure resources are managed effectively and responsibly.
• Support the development of funding streams, grants and partnerships.
• Contribute to long-term financial planning and sustainability.

Person specification

Essential criteria

Experience

• Experience in the charity, health or social care sector
• Experience of managing teams and organisational performance.
• Experience of financial oversight and budget management.

Skills and knowledge

• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Ability to work effectively with a Board or senior stakeholders
• Good understanding of governance, compliance and risk
• Strong communication and decision-making skills

Personal attributes

• Reliable, motivated and able to work independently
• Able to prioritise workload and manage competing demands
• Committed to the values and aims of Headway Luton

Desirable criteria

• Experience in a senior leadership role (e.g. CEO, Director or equivalent).
• Understanding of CQC or regulated services
• Experience of fundraising, commissioning or contract management
• Relevant qualification (e.g. business, leadership or management)

Position: Chief Executive Officer
Employer: Headway Luton Ltd (Registered Charity 1080775)
Location: 49-53 Alma Street, Luton, LU1 2PL
Responsible to: Board of Trustees

Hours: 25 hours per week (flexible, Monday to Friday)
Salary: £30,277 per annum (pro rata)
Contract: Permanent, subject to a six-month probationary period

Annual leave: 28 days plus bank holidays (pro rata)
Pension: 5% employer contribution
Other benefits: Flexible working, TOIL for additional hours and free on-site parking

Appendix 1: Initial priorities (first 6 months)

• Build strong relationships with staff, trustees and key stakeholders.
• Develop a clear understanding of services, operations and funding.
• Review the current financial position and identify risks or opportunities.
• Ensure governance and reporting processes are effective.
• Identify early opportunities for service improvement or development.
• Contribute to future strategic planning. 

The Chief Executive & Creative Director holds the most senior post at Dance City, unites the creative and strategic functions of the organisation, and is accountable to the board of trustees for the good management and impact of the charity. The Chief Executive & Creative Director leads and works collaboratively with the board, senior management team (SMT) and stakeholders and partners to ensure that Dance City creates opportunities for people to create, produce and experience dance at its very best. The Chief Executive & Creative Director drives the business, identifying commercial opportunities, securing financial resilience, and ensuring that Dance City’s programme is at the vanguard of sustainable dance development in the region. The Chief Executive & Creative Director is based in the northeast and plays an active role in the social life and cultural communities of the region. 
 

Role Profile and Person Specification 

Key deliverables 

• Lead on Dance City’s vision, values and organisational objectives and ensure the relevance and sustainability of its creative programme.

• Ensure there is alignment between Dance City’s creative ambitions and its business needs and that all activity is delivered to the highest possible standards to plan and within budget.

• Grow the organisation’s earned income and shape and set targets for initiatives embracing commercial ventures, corporate partnerships, public funding, trusts and foundations and individual philanthropy.

• Be accountable to the board and to funding bodies, and for the responsible stewardship of Dance City.

• Ensure a strong profile and reputation for the organisation and for dance practice locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. 

• Initiate, develop and sustain partnerships with existing and potential funders and key stakeholders. 

• Lead and enable the senior team; motivate, inspire, and support the development of the wider staff team.

Role profile 

Leadership and governance  

• Develop and monitor the strategic plan with the SMT and Board. 

• Work closely with the Chair and Trustees to ensure the good governance of the charity and that organisational performance is structured and monitored using well articulated, achievable KPIs. 

• Support Trustees in being an effective Board, ensuring it comprises the appropriate range of skills and has access to training and development opportunities.

• Deploy Trustees’ skills and networks to identify and activate opportunities for commercial development and business growth.

• Be an inclusive leader, collaborate with and empower the SMT, and motivate, support and develop the wider staff team. 

Advocacy, profile and civic engagement 

• Promote the profile and reputation of Dance City locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

• Initiate and enable constructive debate about dance and its development by artists, policy-makers and the public, and to promote Dance City’s role in dance leadership.

• Articulate the transformative potential of dance in enabling social cohesion, the centrality of its place in the wider creative industries sector, and its potential, through civic partnerships and collaboration, to make a major contribution to the economy and well being of the city and region. 

• Ensure Dance City is part of local, regional, national  and international arts discussions and networks, is represented at key events and viewed as crucial to decision-making processes in the dance and wider cultural and social sectors.

• Be the face of Dance City in professional and community networks and at events in the northeast; communicate and advocate for its plans and ambitions to the widest range of people including politicians, the media, funders, artists, audiences and the public.

Creative 

• Shape, co-create and communicate the creative vision for Dance City. 

• Oversee the development and delivery of a creative programme which appeals to a wide range of audiences, demonstrates excellence, and sets out to grow appetite and demand for diverse dance experiences. 

• Build and manage sustainable commercial and funding partnerships which will enhance the profile of the programme and enable the commissioning, programming and presentation of dance within and beyond Dance City.

• Oversee the evaluation of the programme, to ensure quality, to engage in reflection and implement learning with colleagues.

• Maintain an overview of the local and national dance ecology in order to inform advocacy and planning.

Brand, commercial performance and income 

• Oversee the design and delivery of effective marketing and communications strategies that are developed and effectively delivered, to retain existing and grow new audiences for dance in the northeast and to promote the Dance City brand.

• Be proactive in the development and delivery of effective fundraising and income generation strategies for Dance City, to ensure that contributed income grows and is diversified, and to develop commercial opportunities enabled by the building and programme. 

• Play an active role in identifying and approaching prospective donors, sponsors and funding partners.

• Develop, maintain, and strengthen relationships with existing and potential supporters and to lead on key public funding and donor relationships.

Finance and operations  

• Be accountable for the financial operation of the organisation, ensuring budgets are set and monitored, appropriate financial policies and procedures are in place, compliance with appropriate legal and fiscal frameworks is followed, and that there is timely reporting to the relevant funders and authorities.

• Oversee and ensure the smooth and efficient management of Dance City’s facilities and infrastructure.

• Ensure Dance City remains a visible champion of environmental responsibility.

• Ensure the organisation is fully compliant with all legal requirements, including health and safety, and that all staff are trained appropriately. 

People and culture 

• Set the tone for and model the organisational culture, be an inclusive and consultative leader, championing employee wellbeing and engagement. 

• Ensure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place for recruitment, induction, appraisals and the professional development of staff.

• Ensure the organisation upholds its principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, valuing the wellbeing of all colleagues.

Person specification  

Essential  

• Has held a senior role in a cultural venue or within an organisation with a substantial arts programme or partnerships; is well networked in and beyond the cultural and creative industries. 

• Understanding of the current landscape and eco-system in the cultural sector and awareness of local/national political initiatives that will impact on - and create opportunities for - Dance City and its partner organisations.

• Understanding of the legal, fiscal, social and political context within which the arts operate, and the contribution they make to health, education, social cohesion and civic pride.

• Understanding of the needs of dance as an art form and a commitment to best practice and to promoting inclusion and equality of opportunity.

• An inclusive leader with experience of overseeing organisational transformation and managing change. 

• A track record in relationship building, working in partnership with a range of funders, agencies and organisations, and of successful fundraising and income generation from a range of sources. 

• A strong advocate and compelling storyteller, able to network, represent the organisation, communicate its vision and inspire confidence among existing and potential peers and stakeholders.

• Strong financial literacy and skills, knowledge of charity governance and relevant financial policies and procedures; experience of senior financial accountability.

• Experience of working effectively with a Board of Directors, understanding of best practice in governance and organisational development.

• A commitment to living in the region, able to travel nationally and internationally, and to work some evenings and weekends where there is reasonable expectation to attend events.

Desirable 

• Experience of running a building with a diverse and impactful arts programme. 

• An extensive network in the cultural sector. 

• Experience of significant national/international cultural partnership projects. 

• Experience of managing significant public investment programmes such as ACE NPO, Creative Scotland RFO or equivalent.

Equity, diversity and inclusion 

At Dance City we believe that voices and perspectives from a range of backgrounds and lived experiences make our understanding of the world and the arts more relevant.

We believe that difference is our strength.

Therefore we actively encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and those that are under-represented in our city and region and in dance leadership. 

We’re looking for an experienced, proactive fundraiser who can think strategically and deliver hands-on. Someone confident writing bids, building partnerships and spotting opportunities for growth.

This is a key role at a pivotal moment for AudioActive, offering the chance to build on strong foundations and shape a diverse, sustainable income model and power a team that is dedicated to empowering young people through music.

What you’ll do

• Lead and deliver AudioActive’s fundraising and development strategy
• Grow income across trusts & foundations, tenders, contracts and partnerships
• Write high-quality bids, proposals and pitches
• Develop new business partnerships aligned with our mission
• Build strong relationships with funders, partners and supporters
• Work closely with the CEO and team to align income with programmes
• Track performance, manage targets and identify new opportunities

Strategic Programmes Research Executive

We have established a number of high‑profile strategic programmes to drive progress towards a cure. Most recently, we launched the Dementia Frontiers Fund, an ambitious global initiative empowering researchers to tackle the most urgent and complex questions in dementia.

We now have an exciting opportunity for a Research Executive to support the ongoing delivery of our major strategic programmes, providing essential administrative support to ensure their successful delivery, as well as contributing to the development and set‑up of new programmes of work.

This role sits within the Strategic Programmes team in the Research Directorate, an ambitious, supportive and friendly team that funds the best research to transform the lives of people affected by all forms of dementia. We are looking for someone who is highly organised with a good eye for detail, excellent communication skills, and is excited to support our mission.

Key Responsibilities:

Programme Management and Administration

· Work across the Strategic Programmes team and Partnerships function to provide administrative support associated with the delivery of ARUK’s strategic programmes. In particular:

· Support the ongoing management and delivery of the Dementia Frontiers Fund, acting as the central coordination point and primary contact for business administration activities and providing secretariat support as required.

· Manage the Dementia Frontiers Fund email inbox answering queries from researchers and grant awardees promptly and professionally.

· Support the monitoring of the Dementia Frontiers Fund by scheduling progress check-in meetings with awarded teams, supporting programme review processes, and taking accurate meeting notes to ensure effective follow‑up and documentation.

· Help to manage engagement with a wide range of stakeholders in the dementia research landscape, supporting their input into the programmes, with clear note-taking and systematic tracking of interactions and feedback.

Research meetings and events

· Organise research meetings and events by coordinating schedules, travel and accommodation arrangements, venue hiring, catering, and liaising with meeting attendees and ARUK’s Events team.

· Assist with the smooth running of meetings and events to ensure a positive experience for all participants.

Knowledge, skills and experience needed:

· Experience in supporting teams in an administrative capacity

· Overall IT competency and knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook

· First degree (or equivalent) in relevant biomedical science

· Knowledge of research funding processes

· Ability to work with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail

· Good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise workload

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills

· Team worker and flexible in approach

· Enthusiastic and professional manner

· Flexibility to work occasional unsociable hours if the role requires

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £24,000 per annum, plus benefits.

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 26th April 2026, with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.  We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, particularly from those in the global majority, those with disabilities, men and those from the LGBTQIA+ community. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.

As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. While we strive to anonymise your CV where possible, there are certain sections, such as the application question, that cannot be fully anonymised. We kindly ask that you remove any personal information, including your name, when answering the application question. The hiring panel will not have access to your personal details, such as your name and address, until you are invited for an interview. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website.