Strategic development officer jobs in Manchester

You will be part of a high performing team to drive impact and change within the Special Olympics GB networks. You will provide both operational and strategic input and support to grow robust safeguarding policies, procedures and framework for our membership across Great Britain, those in the National Office team, and other stakeholders. You will be accountable for driving a positive and effective safeguarding culture across Special Olympics GB.

Please see Recruitment Pack and Job Description for further information.

This is a a unique opportunity has arisen within a national breastfeeding charity to support the organisation through an exciting new phase of development. 

The ABM is a small but growing national charity. To support our expanding activity, we are creating a new role that provides comprehensive administrative and operational support across the organisation. The Team Support Officer will ensure the smooth running of core processes while also assisting colleagues working across all functions, including but not limited to, fundraising, communications, training, governance, and events.

This new post integrates and expands on previous administrative functions, providing flexible operational support across all areas of ABM’s work. It replaces the former Administrator and Admin Assistant roles, bringing together core administrative functions with additional capacity to support ABM’s strategic growth.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a high performing Active Partnership team working with a network committed to making positive change through movement, physical activity and sport.

Hours: 37 hours per week

Salary: £61,430 - £70,007 p.a. (NJC Spine Points 49 – 55). Salary to be at entry-level except for exceptional circumstances. 

Contract:  Fixed term to 31 March 2027, with potential extension subject to confirmation of funding.

Greater Manchester Moving is the Greater Manchester charity committed to changing lives by inspiring a healthier future in Greater Manchester through moving more, sport, and physical activity. We play a strategic leadership role in support of the Greater Manchester wide movement, for movement.

We are seeking to recruit an individual with purpose, passion, and integrity to lead, support and connect the Greater Manchester system in creating the conditions to enable Active Lives for All.

It’s an exciting time to join the team as we develop our vision to build and foster relationships with and between people, communities and system partners, to enable a whole system approach to supporting the development of community networks, activities and opportunities to move more and tackle inequality.

We are looking for someone who loves working with people, who can unite people from diverse backgrounds around a vision, who understands the power of collaboration and who can work with others to help people connect, support and lead across sectors, organisations and alongside communities to help us achieve the ambitions set out in the ten-year strategy, GM Moving in Action.

This is a full-time role (37 hours per week), but job shares, secondments and reduced hours will be considered as part of our commitment to flexible working. Working days will predominantly be Monday to Friday. Our team works a minimum of two days a week in person, and our core office day is Tuesday. Occasional evening/weekend work may be required.

We have permanent office space at House of Sport in Manchester, and office space with GMCA and NHS GM at Tootal Buildings, Oxford Road, Manchester. We have regular team and co-working days, blended with homeworking. We trust you to work in a way that suits you and that enables you to be productive and thrive.

Greater Manchester Moving is committed to providing equal opportunities and promoting diversity, irrespective of ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexuality, disability, religion, pregnancy or personal circumstance. We aspire to being a diverse, inclusive and responsible organisation. Our aim is to have a workforce that reflects and understands the communities we work alongside.

The Recruitment Pack (which includes the Job Summary), Application Form and Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form, are available to download from our website. Please complete your personal statement with close reference to the Our Ideal Candidate section of the Job Summary. 

Closing date for applications: Monday 6 April (midnight) 

Interview date: Monday 13 April

Do you want to work for a dynamic, creative, fast-paced charity?

At Action Together we see the amazing things people achieve when they work together to make the lives of others better. If you share our values: believe it’s possible, strengthen others, and be true, we’d love you to consider joining our team.

Operations Director

The ideal candidate

We are looking for a values‑driven operational leader with significant experience in senior operations, systems, or transformation roles. You will bring strong technical capability in designing and embedding systems and processes, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to produce high‑quality management information for senior leaders and Boards.

You will be an influential communicator who can lead through change, build strong relationships across the organisation, and support others to work in consistent, effective, and collaborative ways. With a strong grasp of governance, risk, compliance, and organisational assurance, you will balance strategic vision with hands‑on delivery. Above all, you will share Action Together’s commitment to social justice, equity, and strengthening people, places, and partnerships

The role

The Operations Director will lead the development, optimisation, and continuous improvement of Action Together’s systems, processes, and organisational infrastructure. Working as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will co-design, develop, and maintain internal systems and processes that enhance operational delivery and organisational efficiency, ensuring they are fully embedded into day-to-day use with clear ownership, guidance, and effective performance monitoring.

You will oversee core central functions including HR, Communications and Impact, Data Protection and Information Management, and Health & Safety. You will play a key role in internal digital transformation, policy development, risk management, and organisational compliance. You will produce high‑quality management information that supports strategic decision‑making, work closely with Locality Directors to standardise and enhance delivery models. In addition, with reference to our constitution and Scheme of Delegation you will be responsible for supporting governance at Board meetings, and the AGM.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At Action Together we value diversity, promote equity and challenge discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are committed to ensuring that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race.

In order to ensure that our workforce reflects our communities across all levels of seniority, Action Together is offering a guaranteed interview to any candidate who meets the essential criteria listed in the person specification and who is also:

• A disabled person and/or
• A member of a community experiencing racial inequality

Action Together is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We expect all of our employees to demonstrate this commitment.

Right to work

We do not hold a Sponsor License and are unable to accept applications which require sponsorship to work in the UK

Please note, the successful candidates will be required to undertake a basic Disclosure and barring Service (DBS) check. A positive Disclosure of Offences will not automatically bar an applicant from being appointed and suitable applicants will not be refused employment because of offences that are not relevant.

The Sophie Lancaster Foundation was established by Sylvia Lancaster following the murder of her daughter Sophie in a hate crime motivated by prejudice against alternative subcultures. What began as a grassroots response has grown into an internationally recognised charity working across education, community engagement, research and advocacy to challenge prejudice and prevent hate crime.

We work with schools, young people, community groups and institutions to increase understanding of alternative cultures and to promote respect, inclusion and safety for those who may be marginalised because of identity or appearance.

We are looking for a Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through its next stage of development.

The CEO will provide strategic and operational leadership, working closely with the Board of Trustees to ensure the organisation remains sustainable, impactful and true to its mission. The role involves leading a small team, strengthening partnerships, overseeing programmes and securing income through grants, trusts, partnerships and other funding sources.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and delivering the organisation’s strategic plan
• Leading and supporting a small staff team
• Maintaining effective governance with the Board of Trustees
• Building partnerships and representing the organisation publicly
• Overseeing programmes and ensuring impact is measured and evidenced
• Leading fundraising and ensuring long-term financial sustainability
• Ensuring safeguarding, compliance and strong organisational management

We are looking for someone with:

• Senior leadership experience in the charity, education, community or social justice sectors
• A track record of strategic development and organisational growth
• Experience securing funding and managing organisational budgets
• Strong communication and partnership-building skills
• A clear commitment to equality, inclusion and social change
• Knowledge of alternative subcultures preferably gained from lived experience

Salford CVS is recruiting a Volunteering Development Worker (Women and Girls in Football) to lead our work in increasing the participation of women and girls in off-pitch volunteering roles across grassroots football in Salford. This new role has been created in alignment with The FA’s priorities to strengthen inclusive volunteer pathways and ensure club and league environments are welcoming, supportive and accessible for female volunteers.

The main purpose of the post is to increase the number of female volunteers in off-pitch roles across grassroots football in Salford by supporting clubs, leagues, sessional football providers and community groups to create, promote and sustain inclusive volunteer opportunities. The role will coordinate learning and development for volunteers, help organisations understand their volunteer needs, and strengthen their capacity to recruit, retain and recognise women and girls in volunteering.

You will use Salford CVS’s established volunteering expertise to support England Accredited clubs, leagues and sessional football providers to attract, recruit and retain more female volunteers. This includes addressing known barriers such as lack of visible role models, sex-based discrimination, childcare demands that fall disproportionately on women, limited flexibility and traditional recruitment practices that may favour men.

Working in connection with our Volunteer Centre and wider Active Communities teams, you will join a service that already supports hundreds of organisations to develop safe and high-quality volunteering opportunities, matches hundreds of residents to roles, and delivers a wide range of volunteering training and good-practice guidance. You will also work closely with local partners, including Salford Community Leisure, GM Moving, Manchester FA and VCSE partners to ensure a coordinated and impactful approach.

The role will involve building strong relationships with clubs and leagues, engaging women and girls through targeted outreach in multiple settings (for example, community events, education environments, VCSE spaces, etc.), supporting grassroots clubs to understand their volunteer needs and barriers, and developing sustainable volunteer plans that help address these. You will deliver both FA and Salford CVS-designed training, increasing access to high-quality learning and development across the grassroots football ecosystem.

You will also connect to our wider engagement in the physical activity agenda in Salford, particularly the Place Partnership, a programme helping to lower barriers to physical activity and get Salford residents moving more.

Hours: 18 hours per week (excluding breaks), to be worked over 3–4 days.

Contract: Until 30th June 2028, subject to the successful completion of a 6-month probationary period.

About you

This position will suit someone passionate about widening access to volunteering, confident in engaging diverse communities, and skilled in helping organisations embed inclusive, flexible and sustainable volunteer practices. You will play a central part in shaping a long-term cultural shift within grassroots football, supporting clubs and leagues to broaden volunteering participation, strengthen their volunteering culture and create off-pitch roles where women and girls can thrive.

To get a fuller flavour of our work and to apply for this position, please visit our website via the Apply button.

Closing date: Noon on 1st April 2026.
Interview date: 9th April 2026.

Do you want to work for a dynamic, creative, fast-paced charity?

At Action Together we see the amazing things people achieve when they work together to make the lives of others better. If you share our values: believe it’s possible, strengthen others, and be true, we’d love you to consider joining our team.

Finance Director

The ideal candidate

We seek a finance leader driven by values, with extensive experience directing finance operations and delivering top-tier financial planning, reporting, and governance. This role requires strong technical accounting abilities, exceptional communication skills, and the talent to explain complex concepts to diverse audiences.

You should be a collaborative, inclusive leader who excels at developing team members, managing risks, negotiating effectively, and guiding the organisation through periods of change. Most importantly, you must be committed to Action Together’s mission of social justice, equity, and community empowerment.

The role

The Finance Director will play a pivotal role in ensuring Action Together remains financially robust, sustainable, and compliant as a charity and employer. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will partner closely with the CEO and Board to shape a resilient business model, strengthen financial governance, and provide strategic direction that supports our mission and values.

You will lead and develop a high performing finance function, oversee annual budgeting and long‑term financial planning, and ensure high‑quality financial insight is available to the CEO, SLT and Board. The Finance Director has responsibility for the production of monthly accounts package, annual audit and statutory accounts, risk management, payroll assurance, investment strategy, and organisational compliance with Companies House, the Charity Commission, and all financial governance requirements.

You will play an integral role in supporting strong governance, working closely with the Treasurer and Board to provide clear, timely, and insightful financial performance updates, forecasts, and risk assessments.

You will also work with the Treasurer to shape investment strategy, strengthen financial controls, and uphold governance across all statutory, regulatory, and organisational requirements

Equality , Diversity and Inclusion

At Action Together we value diversity, promote equity and challenge discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are committed to ensuring that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race.

In order to ensure that our workforce reflects our communities across all levels of seniority, Action Together is offering a guaranteed interview to any candidate who meets the essential criteria listed in the person specification and who is also:

• A disabled person and/or
• A member of a community experiencing racial inequality

Action Together is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We expect all of our employees to demonstrate this commitment.

Right to work

We do not hold a Sponsor License and are unable to accept applications which require sponsorship to work in the UK

Please note, the successful candidates will be required to undertake a basic Disclosure and barring Service (DBS) check. A positive Disclosure of Offences will not automatically bar an applicant from being appointed and suitable applicants will not be refused employment because of offences that are not relevant.

Shape public policy. Safeguard professional standards. Lead a profession towards the statutory recognition it deserves.

Not every Chief Executive role involves influencing government, protecting professional standards and occasionally resolving a registrant query before the end of the day.

After seven years, Mike Orlov is retiring as Chief Executive and Registrar of the National Register of Public Service Interpreters. The Board is now seeking a successor who can continue strengthening the organisation and raising the profile and importance of professional interpreters working across public services.

NRPSI is the independent voluntary regulator and national register for public service interpreters in the United Kingdom. It sets professional standards, upholds accountability and provides assurance to public sector organisations, including the Ministry of Justice, the Metropolitan Police and NHS bodies, in settings where interpreters are relied upon in critical situations.

In these environments, clear communication is essential. When it fails, the consequences can affect legal outcomes, safeguarding decisions and, in some situations, lives.

The organisation is entering an important moment in its development. The House of Lords Public Services Committee’s 2025 report on interpreting services in the courts has brought renewed national attention to the role that professional interpreters play across justice, policing and healthcare. At the same time, NRPSI continues to advance the longer-term ambition of statutory regulation and protection of title for Registered Public Service Interpreters.

As Victor Olowe, Chair of NRPSI, puts it: “This is an important moment for NRPSI and for the wider profession, particularly following the House of Lords 2025 report and the government’s commitment to address some of its key recommendations.”

As Chief Executive and Registrar, you’ll engage with senior stakeholders across government and public services while leading a specialist, long-standing team responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Register and the standards that underpin it.

Drawing on your experience, you’ll help shape the organisation’s next stage of development and strengthen the role NRPSI plays in safeguarding the public through professional interpreting standards.

The Role

Stepping into this role, you’ll be accountable to the Board for the governance, strategic direction and operational leadership of the organisation.

This is a hands-on leadership role, working closely with the Chair and Board to shape the organisation’s strategy and priorities, while ensuring the Register continues to operate with credibility, integrity and independence.

You’ll have direct responsibility for the integrity of the Register itself. This includes oversight of registration, renewals, complaints and disciplinary processes, as well as responsibility for ensuring the organisation’s Code of Professional Conduct and regulatory framework remain robust and fit for purpose.

With your experience, moving between strategic and operational ground will come naturally to you. One week you may be engaging with senior civil servants or government departments about the importance of professional interpreting standards. The next you may be reviewing operational processes, supporting your team in the delivery of the Register’s core functions or ensuring the organisation’s financial position remains sustainable.

Your team works mainly remotely and are all long-standing, dedicated and experienced, responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Register. Working in a remote-first environment, continuing a culture of collaboration, accountability and professional development while ensuring the organisation continues to deliver high standards of service is high on the list of priorities.

Externally, you’ll act as the senior voice of NRPSI. What does this mean in reality? Engaging with stakeholders across justice, policing, healthcare and central government, representing the organisation’s perspective clearly and authoritatively. This could include contributing to sector discussions, building relationships with policymakers and making the case for why professional interpreting standards matter to public safety and effective public services, or posting on LinkedIn and social channels, giving updates or hosting town halls for registrants.

The role also sees you supporting the organisation’s longer-term ambition of achieving statutory regulation and protection of title for Registered Public Service Interpreters, a goal that will genuinely benefit from the right leader’s credibility and persistence.

Financial sustainability also sits within your remit. NRPSI is funded through registration fees paid by interpreters, and you’ll oversee the organisation’s finances while ensuring resources are used effectively to deliver its strategic priorities. Alongside this, you’ll maintain oversight of operational systems and processes, identifying opportunities to improve resilience, efficiency and the effective use of digital tools.

The Person

This is a role that calls for someone who has operated at senior or director level within a charity, not-for-profit organisation, professional body, regulatory organisation, membership association or comparable public service environment.

Someone who understands the responsibilities that come with leading an organisation whose work centres on professional standards, governance and public protection, and who brings the credibility, judgement and experience required to engage effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders including government departments, public sector organisations, registrants and sector partners.

A collaborative, trust-based leadership style will be just as important: someone equally comfortable exercising independent judgement as they are balancing strategic thinking with practical delivery in a specialist organisation where both are needed in equal measure.

You’ll bring most of the following:

• Senior leadership experience at director level or above within a charity, professional body, membership organisation, regulatory body or public service environment
• Experience influencing government policy or engaging with commissioners of public spending
• Experience developing or improving regulatory, registration or accreditation processes
• The ability to represent an organisation clearly and confidently in public, including engaging with senior civil servants, sector stakeholders and the media
• Financial literacy and experience overseeing organisational budgets and sustainability
• Experience developing and delivering strategy and operational plans
• Confidence using digital systems, data and communication platforms to support organisational priorities
• Understanding of, or experience in, a registrar or equivalent function within a professional, regulatory or standards body, including accountability for the integrity of registration processes and criteria

Desirable

• Familiarity with public affairs, policy engagement or advocacy work would be advantageous, as would exposure to justice, policing, healthcare or public service environments.
• Experience navigating politically sensitive or contested professional environments, including managing public criticism, would also be beneficial.
• A second language would be welcomed.
• Above all, you’ll share a commitment to the public interest and the role professional interpreting plays in ensuring fair access to justice and public services.

A full candidate pack providing further information about the organisation accompanies this ad.

Key Information

NRPSI is working with Michelle Paoloni, Director at House Recruitment, on this appointment.

To apply, please submit a current CV and a supporting statement of no more than two pages outlining your relevant experience, where you saw the role advertised and what has prompted you to apply.

• Applications close at 5pm on Friday 10 April 2026.
• Discovery conversations with House Recruitment will take place on a rolling basis.
• Final interviews will be held in person in London on Wednesday 29 April 2026.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

NRPSI is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and are committed to ensuring a fair and inclusive recruitment process.

Our focus is on creating libraries of tomorrow with children and young people today.

We want all children and young people to feel at home at the library, to be understood, empowered and inspired. Our collaborative network is made up of member, partners and supporters. We believe in the need for safe spaces and real-life connections to support the demands of modern life. Together, we’re creating change, and you can be a part of it.

This is a pivotal moment of growth and development for Libraries Rising as a young charity. We’re seeking a passionate, skilled manager to join our team. We’re looking for someone to bring the energy and expertise to help us develop and grow over the next 12 months.

We’re looking for:

An experienced project manager who enjoys a flexible and iterative approach.

A proactive leader who is energised by variety, and able to work effectively across diverse topics and themes.

A values led bid writer who has experience of co-creating successful grant funding bids.

A creative thinker who enjoys a productive and responsive environment.

An enthusiastic collaborator who will build strong relationships with our team, members and partners.

We’re looking for someone who lives our values - progressive, collaborative, kind, aspirational and inclusive.

What’s important to us needs to be important to you too. We want to focus on impact, to work openly, to collaborate with and learn from others, to take the time to care for ourselves and each other, and to have fun together. We want to build an environmentally sustainable charity, and we want to be celebrated as an inclusion changemaker in the sector.

About the work

We are an Arts Council England Investment Principles Support Organisation. Our members are leaders in children and young people’s public libraries and schools library services (SLS). 

The Development and Delivery Manager (Projects) is a new role for the charity. You will work with a small and growing team, who are passionate about our mission and vision. You will also work with our members (leaders of children’s public library and School Library Service leaders) and sector partners.

We are in the final stages of creating our strategy for the future. You’ll be supporting us with organisational and sector development across all pillars, with a particular focus on our Thriving Charity goals.

Job purpose

To lead and deliver a range priority projects and funding bids for the charity.

The purpose of the role includes:

• To scope and deliver a range of projects to support both organisational and sector developments.
• To convene members and young people to participate in events and workshops, ensuring projects and developments are co-created with stakeholders.
• To compile reviews, reports and options appraisals to aid effective decision making.
• To lead the development and submission of grant and trust funding opportunities.
• To support the shaping, and delivery, of a funding plan to enable delivery of our new charity strategy.
• To ensure creative and flexible use of resources.

What you’ll bring to the role

• Strong project management skills, with experience delivering complex, multi-stakeholder work.
• Track record of delivering to achieve strategic goals and outcomes.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise, plan and manage risk.
• Ability to negotiate and influence.
• Experience of identifying funding opportunities and successfully bidding for grant funding.
• Able to work on own initiative and collaborate within a team.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent listening skills with the ability to take diverse opinions into account.
• Digitally literate and technologically curious, with experience of Microsoft Office and project software.
• Experience managing and monitoring budgets.
• Experience of facilitating events and workshops.
• Committed to engaging and co-creating with children, young people and families.
• Understanding of the role of libraries within communities.
• Experience of managing partnerships, subcontractors or commissioned work.
• Awareness of GDPR implications and requirements.

Personal qualities

• Empathetic, able to understand a variety of viewpoints that are different to their own.
• Calm under pressure and able to manage multiple priorities while maintaining quality.
• Confident in building relationships and constructively challenging where needed.
• Thrives when working collaboratively and taking responsibility for delivery.
• Trusts others and inspires trust.
• Ambitious for our charity, the library sector and for children and young people.
• Strategic thinker who can also absorb and analyse detailed information.
• Entrepreneurial, with the ability to spot opportunities and develop them.
• Asks for feedback and is able to accept and act on it to improve their own performance.
• Understanding of inclusion and its importance within a diverse society.
• Commitment to own continued professional development.

Our application process is open to everyone and anyone with the experience we’re looking for. We have a diverse board of trustees, but we know our staff team is not as diverse as we need for the future, as we grow. We particularly welcome applications from people from racialised communities, men, trans or non-binary individuals, and those with hidden or visible disabilities.

Employee benefits include:

25 days annual leave (pro rata) plus Bank Holidays

5% employer pension contribution

Employee Assist Programme – including 24/7 counselling, health support and legal helpline.

A range of discounts on retail, entertainment, travel and wellbeing.

If you have any questions about the role, or want to chat Tabitha, Chief Executive before applying, please get in touch.

All applicants must have an existing Right to Work in the UK. Please also note that appointment will be made subject to collection of two references and a satisfactory DBS check or evidence of a current DBS certificate.

Mary’s Meals is a global movement supported by people from all walks of life and we are focused on one goal – that every child receives a nutritious daily meal in a place of education. We offer more than just a career, we offer the opportunity to support our global movement in a dynamic and inclusive environment with a real focus on personal development.

We are looking for a Regional Development Officer for Glasgow. In this role, you will be a warm, visible ambassador for Mary’s Meals – igniting enthusiasm, inspiring action, and helping people across your region join our mission and help feed more children. We require someone to be based in or a short commutable distance to cover the region.

By building genuine, values‑driven relationships and using insight to guide your priorities, you’ll nurture local networks, identify high‑potential opportunities, and confidently grow income, participation, and supporter engagement. Through strategic, outward‑facing work, you’ll turn first conversations into committed, long‑term support that strengthens our movement and fuels our mission.

Working closely with the Head of Scotland you will co-create and deliver a tailored local growth plan that reflects your region's communities and opportunities. You will represent Mary’s Meals across schools, churches, corporates and community partners and playa pivotal role in activating supporters, mobilising volunteers, and sharing compelling local stories.​

Operating with high autonomy, you will use insights and data to focus on high potential and growth areas, and collaborate closely with our Philanthropy & Partnerships, Supporter Experience and Communications teams to deliver seamless supporter journeys and strong storytelling. Everything you do will reflect Mary’s Meals’ warmth and dignity, helping us reach more children through relationship-led growth.

To apply for the role of Regional Development Officer based at Mary’s Meals UK, please follow the apply instructions on Charity Job and you will be directed to our website.

Applicants must hold full right to work in the UK.

We welcome applications from candidates of all different backgrounds and identities to apply. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse charity providing a supportive place for you to do the best and most rewarding work of your career.

Closing date for applications is Thursday, 26 March.

Interviews will commence week beginning 30 March.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Please note: If you have any special requirements or adjustments before an interview, please let us know.

Location: Home based
Job Type: Full time
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £55,000 – £60,000 per annum
 
Scope and purpose
 
To implement MEI’s business development strategy, helping us secure sustained income to deliver our priorities and fulfil our mission to improve lives through maths education. This includes managing bid processes for major funding, working with senior leadership and business leads to write costed proposals, identifying tender and other funding opportunities, reviewing and finalising funding agreements, and working with the Director for Strategic Communications and Partnerships to nurture relationships and bring new opportunities to fruition.
 
Main duties and responsibilities
 
Support all aspects of MEI’s business development and fundraising activity.
 
Funding opportunities and competitor environment

• Scope external funding opportunities, reviewing these against MEI’s mission, objectives and key criteria.
• Report to MEI’s Senior Leadership Team and Board on the pipeline of new and potential opportunities and produce business cases for new ventures for MEI’s SLT/Board.
• Undertake research into donors, sponsors and other funders, reviewing suitability and conducting due diligence.
• Work with the Director for Strategic Communications and Partnerships to develop relationships and opportunities towards formal agreement.
• Provide advice and guidance to colleagues involved in developing new business, including how to model costs and pricing, and shaping and writing effective proposals.
• Build intelligence about the competitive landscape, identifying competitors, assessing potential threats and maintaining an up-to-date register for SLT and the Board.

 
Tenders, bids and proposals

• Manage a diverse set of funding opportunities and proposals on the go at any single time, ranging from conference sponsorships to grant applications, project bids, corporate partnerships and government programme bids.
• Participate in pre-market engagement for large tenders, clarifying funder expectations and requirements, guiding senior leadership decisions about priorities and bidding criteria.
• For competitive tenders, manage the process from tender launch to bid submission with input from business and operational leads, including: tender clarification; costs and budget; proposal writing, review and sign off; compliance requirements; and supporting documentation.
• Co-ordinate post-award processes through to contract signature, in line with Grant Manager responsibilities and in liaison with SLT and trustees, legal partners, finance and other partners/teams.
• Participate in post-tender feedback reviews and share learning across the team, using lessons learned to undertake revision and improvements.

 
Sponsor and donor management

• Support the account management and stewardship of donors and sponsors, liaising with appropriate teams, ensuring that objectives of donors and sponsors are fully met.
• Directly manage relationships with lead representatives of annual conference sponsor and exhibiting organisations, ensuring their objectives are met, arrangements are handled smoothly, and risks and issues are managed effectively.

 
Systems, records and reporting

• Shape the configuration and use of MEI’s CRM system and other internal systems for effective business development and fundraising.
• Ensure contact records are up to date, accurate and compliant.
• Produce regular reports for SLT and Board on progress in business development and fundraising, including conversion rates, KPIs, and risks.
• Contribute to MEI’s culture of evidence-driven decision-making, providing high quality evidence and intelligence which supports business strategy.

 
General leadership and management

• Work with trustees, SLT and business teams to ensure that business development and fundraising activity is coherent and aligned with broader strategy and delivery.
• Support the development of commercial skills, competencies and approaches across MEI.
• Undertake other duties assigned by the Director for Strategic Communications and Partnerships and keep them up to date through accurate and regular updates.

 
Key Relationships

• Director for Strategic Communications and Partnerships
• Chief Operating Officer
• Chief Learning Officer
• Financial Controller
• Business and Central Services Manager

 
Person Specification
 
Essential

• Demonstrable experience of fundraising across multiple income streams
• Strong track record of writing bids and securing grant and other funding
• Knowledge and experience of public sector procurement
• Excellent writing skills for bids and fundraising communication
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work autonomously
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships across MEI and with external funders

 
Desirable

• Experience in the education or charitable sector
• Track record of securing large government contracts
• Experience collaborating with product development or programme design teams
• Familiarity with MEI’s mission and the education landscape

 
Personal Attributes, Values and Behaviours

• This is a list of personal attributes which are important for the role but also should encapsulate behaviours required to meet the MEI values of equity, credibility, commitment and service.
• Communicates with clarity and respect
• Commitment and ability to work with all stakeholders to deliver exceptional service
• Actively seeks to work collaboratively when required to achieve the highest service standards
• Self-motivated with a strong work ethic, proactive attitude, and commitment to continuous learning and skill development
• Supportive and collaborative, able to guide and motivate others to deliver high-quality work
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and foster positive, collaborative relationships with colleagues and stakeholders
• Highly organised, able to manage multiple tasks and adapt to changing priorities
• Dynamic, enthusiastic, and positive, bringing energy and a can-do attitude to the role

 
Additional Information
 
This role will involve some travel and occasional overnight stays away from home.
 
REF-227 227

Job Title: Assistant Director of Philanthropy & Strategic Partnership
Reporting To: Deputy CEO/Director of Fundraising and Communications
Manages: Head of Trusts and Foundations, Head of Corporate Partnerships
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time (36 hours per week, flexible)
Salary band: £58,000 - £66,000 per annum
N.B. To ensure fairness and consistency across Home-Start UK, new colleagues usually join at the first point of the pay band for their role. This helps us maintain a clear and equitable approach to pay for everyone joining our team.

Location: Remote – with regular travel to meetings with donors, for events and to our central office in Leicester for collaborative meetings and team activities.

About Home-Start UK

Home-Start is a federated charity consisting of a central national office – Home-Start UK - and over 170 geographically dispersed local Home-Start organisations, all working together under the same identity.

We recognise that being a parent has never been easy. Every Home-Start volunteer is trained to work alongside parents to overcome the challenges they are facing. We work with parents to build on their strengths and give them the support that they tell us they need. We offer no judgement – just compassionate, confidential help and expert support. This peer-to-peer support is key to the difference Home-Start makes and often our volunteers have lived experience of the challenges their families are facing themselves.

About The Role

This is an important moment for us and for the families we support. Parents of babies and young children are facing huge pressures, and strong, values-driven partnerships matter more than ever. We’re looking for a senior leader who can help us meet this moment with confidence and ambition.

As Assistant Director of Philanthropy & Strategic Partnerships, you will help shape the future of our national work and support our federation of 170+ local Home-Starts working in communities across the UK. You will lead a talented team, build long-lasting relationships, and help make sure Home-Start has the funding, partnerships, and influence it needs to give every child the best possible start in life. This role will suit someone who is motivated by purpose, who values people and relationships, and who is comfortable working across a large and varied network.

We are looking for someone with a strong track record, someone who has already delivered high-value fundraising and partnerships at a senior level and is ready to take on a role with significant national influence. With responsibility for an annual income portfolio of circa £4 Million – with strong potential to grow this over the next 3-5 years to between £6Million-£8Million plus, you will work with a supportive Leadership Team and Board, who have already engaged external philanthropy expertise to develop a strategy and roadmap that you can build on. You’ll need to be confident working with high-value supporters: able to build trust, communicate clearly, and nurture long-term relationships with people who want to invest in families and early years support. You’ll bring the skills and confidence to grow a portfolio that is already strong and take it further, along with the ability to work well with others in a fast-moving environment.

You will be joining a warm, collaborative organisation that believes in the power of community, the strength of families, and the importance of early help. If you feel excited by the chance to make a national difference, to build partnerships based on trust and shared purpose, and to help shape the next chapter of Home-Start’s impact, we would be delighted to hear from you.

The people at Home-Start are its most important resource. Home-Start UK has been accredited with Investors in People since March 2005, which recognises the commitment we give to developing our staff.

Benefits of working for Home-Start

• Flexible working
• Family friendly policy
• PayCare health cash plan
• Enhanced employer contribution pension
• Learning and development
• DAS Employee Assistance

If it sounds like your type of challenge, we would be delighted to hear from you.

The closing date for applications is Friday 27th March at 4pm.
As part of our recruitment process, shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in a full-day assessment centre at our Leicester office on Tuesday 14th April.
The assessment centre will include a mix of individual and group activities designed to understand your strategic thinking, relational approach, and leadership style.

Interested?

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

Home-Start UK is committed to Equality of Opportunity and Diversity. We wish to encourage applications from all parts of the community irrespective of gender, race, colour, age, sexual orientation or disability. 

No agencies please.

The funding environment has shifted fast. Alexandra Rose needs to be sharper, more strategic and more commercially literate than the traditional charity model allows. This role exists to make that happen.

We are looking for a senior funding leader who is comfortable operating as a “department of one” within a small but ambitious organisation. Trusts and Foundations prospecting and bid writing will form a core part of the role, working closely with the CEO and senior team. Beyond that, you will build and steward high-value funder relationships, develop and secure corporate partnerships aligned with our values, test new income models, and help us adapt confidently to a fast-changing landscape.

This is a senior leadership position. You will work closely with the CEO and Head of Finance to shape organisational direction and build a resilient, full-cost-recovery funding model that protects quality, depth and long-term impact.

This is a remote role, with a requirement to regularly attend meetings and events (mainly London but on occasions project areas elsewhere in the UK).

Key Responsibilities

 Strategic leadership

• Deliver the current funding strategy, which includes Trusts & Foundations grant funding, corporate donations, and testing new potential ways to generate income.
• Monitor sector trends, opportunities and risks, and reposition the charity as needed.
• Work closely with the CEO and Head of Finance to align income planning with organisational priorities and financial forecasting.
• Build simple, effective systems for pipeline development, forecasting and reporting.

 Trusts & Foundations

• Lead the trusts and foundations portfolio, working closely with the CEO to secure multi-year, core and expansion funding, including directly leading on the writing of funding bids. This will be a core part of the role.
• Develop compelling, well-evidenced funding proposals rooted in our mission and impact.
• Build strong, long-term relationships with funders.

 Corporate Donations & Partnerships

• Manage and grow existing corporate relationships, ensuring partnerships remain values-aligned, purposeful and mutually beneficial.
• Identify and develop new appropriate corporate donors and partners, informed by research into corporate giving, ESG and CSR trends.
• Shape and evolve a clear, credible and cost-effective corporate engagement offer that supports long-term organisational sustainability.

 New income streams

• Scope, test and (if viable) deliver new earned-income models, such as corporate engagement models.
• Develop proof-of-concept approaches and evaluate their feasibility.
• Support the organisation to diversify and strengthen its income base.

 Collaboration & leadership culture

• Serve as a key member of the Senior Management Team, contributing to organisation-wide strategy and decision-making.
• Build a transparent, mature, collaborative culture around income generation.
• Ensure the wider team understands funding opportunities, constraints and strategic choices.

Why join us?

• This is a chance to have real impact in an organisation that works practically and strategically to remove the barriers of affordability and accessibility to good food, with a focus on fruit and veg.

• A senior leadership role with real influence over the charity’s direction and sustainability.
• The chance to build and shape a future-facing income strategy in a charity committed to genuine systemic change.
• Remote working and genuine flexibility.
• Work that directly contributes to a fairer, healthier and more dignified food system.

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Organisation: The Skill Mill
Location: Remote, with expectations to travel to Gateshead and occasional travel to other UK locations
Salary: £45,000 pa 
Contract Type: 2 years fixed term contract, Full-Time
Reporting to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Job Purpose:

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will play a pivotal role in driving the operational success of The Skill Mill. Working closely with the CEO, the COO will oversee day-to-day operations through line-management of the 3 regional Operations Managers, will ensure the delivery of exceptional services, and will support the growth of our social enterprise model across the UK and beyond. This is a strategic leadership position, requiring a dynamic individual with a passion for social impact, operational excellence, and business development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership: Oversee all operational functions, including service delivery, project management, and workforce coordination, ensuring high standards and client satisfaction.

• Strategic Growth: Collaborate with the CEO to develop and implement expansion plans, identifying new partnerships, contracts, and opportunities to scale The Skill Mill’s impact, ensuring operational readiness and quality as the organisation scales.

• Team Management: Lead, motivate, and develop The Skill Mill’s operational delivery teams (see attached structure chart), including the Operations Managers, the Pathway Advisors, and the Supervisors, fostering a culture of inclusion, accountability, and continuous improvement. Lead workforce planning, staff development and wellbeing to ensure a sustainable, motivated and resilient workforce.

• Financial Oversight: Work with the finance team to manage budgets, monitor performance against targets, and ensure cost-effective operations while maintaining quality.

• Governance: Supporting organisation and partnership governance by contributing to papers, risk registers and performance reports, engaging in solution-focused discussion at relevant forums, and ensuring feedback loops with operational delivery teams.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including local authorities, commercial clients, criminal justice partners, and community organisations.

• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure all activities comply with legal, regulatory, and health and safety standards, mitigating risks effectively and escalating through appropriate organisational and legal pathways where necessary.

• Safeguarding: Act as senior lead and an initial escalation point for safeguarding, ensuring robust policies, training, reporting and continuous improvement.

• Impact:

         - Measurement: Monitor and report on social and environmental outcomes, ensuring alignment with The Skill Mill’s mission and funding requirements.

         - Performance: Work alongside partners, including Social Outcomes, evaluation and funding partners to drive performance in line with key success milestones, and engage in collaborative problem-solving to improve the offer and overcome challenges.

         - Quality Assurance: Contribute to organisational quality assurance processes by providing operational insight to support effective monitoring and review. Facilitate and support quality assurance audits, reviews and continuous improvement practices across operational delivery, working closely with operational delivery teams and relevant partners to ensure learning is embedded and service standards are consistently met.

• Innovation: Drive operational efficiencies and explore innovative approaches to service delivery and trainee support.
   

Person Specification:
Experience:

• An understanding of, and sensitivity to, working with vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.

Skills and Abilities:

• A values-led approach to strategy, with the ability to balance social impact, quality, and financial sustainability in strategic and operational decision-making.

• Exceptional leadership and people management skills, with a collaborative and empowering approach.

• Confident in using insights from performance data and information to drive continuous improvement

• A clear, confident and inclusive communication style, with the ability to engage, motivate and align within the organisation and externally

• A collaborative approach to partnership working, with the ability to navigate differing priorities and build trusted relationships across sectors/ stakeholders.

• Proficiency in working with digital tools that support operational efficiency (e.g., CRMs, project management software, Microsoft Office/Google Suite)

• Ability to translate organisational strategy into actionable operational plans
  ​

Personal Attributes:​

• Passionate about social justice, youth development, and environmental sustainability

• Resilient, adaptable, and solution-focused, with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.

• Commitment to The Skill Mill’s values of opportunity, integrity, and excellence.
  ​

What We Offer:​

• The chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of young people and the environment.

• A supportive and purpose-driven work environment.

• Opportunities for professional growth as part of a growing social enterprise.
   

Essential Requirements:

Experience:

• Proven senior leadership experience in managing operations, ideally within criminal justice or a social enterprise, charity, or environmental services sector.

• Demonstrable ability to lead and manage complex operational delivery in multiple geographical areas, ensuring quality and consistency across teams.

• Demonstrable success in growing an organisation or enhancing service delivery, including securing contracts and partnerships.

• Experience managing diverse teams in a hybrid work environment

• Experience of working effectively with external partners, including commissioners, criminal justice agencies and/or commercial organisations.
   

Skills and Abilities:

• Analytical mindset with experience in budgeting, performance monitoring, and process improvement.
   

Qualifications and Certifications:

• A relevant degree or equivalent professional qualification (e.g., business management, operations, or social enterprise leadership) is preferred but not essential.

• Enhanced DBS check is required.

About The Skill Mill:

The Skill Mill is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background.

The Skill Mill is an innovative social enterprise dedicated to transforming lives and communities. We provide employment opportunities for young people with criminal convictions, equipping them with skills and experience through delivering high-quality environmental services, such as grounds maintenance, horticulture, and flood prevention. Our mission is to reduce reoffending, enhance employability, and create sustainable social and environmental impact.