Strategic development officer jobs in Manchester

The Bikeability Trust is entering a new exciting phase of our strategy to 2035 to ensure more children can cycle with confidence. A year into our strategy we have reviewed Executive Team roles and responsibilities and are now looking for a creative Communications and Fundraising Director to lead our mission driven communications, income generation and impact reporting functions.

You will be an experience senior leader in communications, who has the drive to take our strategy to the next level. A key member of the Executive Team, working across the home based diverse staff team to bring together the impact of our work through corporate communications and influencing. We recommend reading our annual reviews on the Bikeability website to see a flavour of the work you could be leading.

Our income generation work is focussed on small impactful corporate partnerships, we have tested some individual giving and are planning to host a fundraising Ball in 2026. Experience in fundraising is desirable, with communications experience as essential as this role will ensure strong relationships with Government. 

If you would like to have a short discussion with the CEO before applying please contact Emily Cherry CEO. We are looking to interview shortlisted candidates on the 23rd or 25th February. We are looking for a candidate to start from 1st April or sooner. 

This newly created role will coordinate persuasive proposals and bids with colleagues across the organisation– working to increase the reach of Phoenix Futures. You will support with the development of fundraising initiatives and produce high quality written materials demonstrating the measurable impact of our services on people’s lives.

The Role

As Strategic Development Officer, you will play a key supporting role in advancing our growth strategy across health and social care settings. Working closely with colleagues and partners, you will help to expand our reach across the UK, ensuring our services are available to those that need them.

You will be responsible for preparing and submitting high quality bids and funding proposals, coordinating input from cross functional teams and producing compelling communications materials. Your work will involve gathering evidence, best practice and case studies to showcase our impact as well as supporting fundraising initiatives and marketing analysis.

About You

Reporting directly to the Head of Strategy and Partnerships, you will:

• Be a experienced in bid writing, proposal development and supporting strategic initiatives.
• Be skilled at interpreting reports and data to communicate impact and value in compelling ways.
• Have strong organisation and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and coordinate contributions from diverse teams.
• Be comfortable working collaboratively and independently, adapting to changing priorities and supporting colleagues across the organisation.

A detailed job description (role profile) and person specification can be found attached. 

Benefits

• A starting salary of £35,500 with the opportunity to access potential yearly salary increments subject to appraisal, meaning potential salary increase up to £41,000
• Committed to providing a Real Living Wage for you, through accreditation with the Living Wage Foundation 
• 25 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing each year to a maximum of 30 days) 
• Benefits including season ticket loan, pension scheme and life assurance 
• Support through occupational sick pay, eye-care vouchers and regular wellbeing talks and activities 
• Continuous training and career development via PXL our dedicated learning management system  
• Access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance programme including telephone and online access 
• A rewarding role with the opportunity to help us support people on their journey to recovery and change their lives for the better. 
• We’ll ensure you get all the support you need to thrive and succeed in your role and find your place amongst our incredible and collaborative team. 

About Phoenix Futures

The Phoenix Futures Group has 60 years’ experience delivering pioneering psychosocial treatment services. We believe in being the best, which means constantly learning, innovating, and collaborating with partners who share our vision.

Our managers and leaders are guided by a shared set of qualities that shape how we work with colleagues, partners and the people we support. These are: BRAVE, HONEST, VISIBLE, VISIONARY, NURTURING and COLLABORATIVE. These qualities underpin our approach to inclusive leadership, accountability and compassionate practice across Phoenix Futures and support the development of a value aligned culture. 

We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and believe it is important to include people with lived experience to ensure the needs of the people we support are represented. We are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where everyone is free to be themselves and we ensure equity of opportunity. 

The Interview

Interviews will be held during February/March, if applications are sufficient a first stage process will be held via teams. As the role requires travel to in person events across the country, we do require an in-person interview as the final stage, this will be in London. Full details will be provided to shortlisted candidates.

Please note, we will be assessing applications as they are submitted and may close this role should we find sufficient applicants with which to make our shortlist. As such, we would advise applying as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

About you

We are looking for a highly motivated and experienced individual, who is capable of creating and delivering a strategic approach to commercial partnership development. The role requires an inspiring, solutions-focused and forward-thinking individual, with a proven track record in commercial development. Candidates should have an understanding of the relationship between charities and the healthcare industry, including pharmaceutical companies, and be able to show relevant experience of taking a strategic approach to creating and further developing a commercial development proposition, within either the voluntary or private sectors.

A self-starter, happy working independently, and as part of a team, we are looking for a strategic thinker with well-developed business/commercial skills and the ability to translate strategy into action. The successful candidate will be an accomplished communicator, who is able to create new and build existing relationships, and work in partnership with internal and external stakeholders. As well as creating strategy, you will need to be comfortable delivering all aspects of business development including initial prospecting, preparation, presentation, negotiating, handling objections, closing, and ongoing partnerships stewardship and development.

About the role

After extensive scoping work throughout 2025, we are launching an exciting project to create a step change in the way we deliver our organisational knowledge, clinical expertise and information to add commercial value to potential customers across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, diagnostic and pharmaceutical companies.  This new role of Head of Commercial Development will own the creation, development and delivery of this work.

You will be responsible for leading the creation of a commercial proposition for Myeloma UK, which will deepen relationships with the healthcare industry, pharmaceutical industry and other associated sectors, to promote Myeloma UK’s knowledge and expertise for commercial return.  You will lead, develop and deliver our commercial development strategy, to include research, partner development and ongoing portfolio growth and development, to deliver a long-term, sustainably growing income stream from Myeloma UK’s commercial relationships.  In addition, you will be expected to develop strong collaborative relationships with all stakeholders, including key individuals across the organisation. 

About us

 Myeloma UK is the only UK charity focused on the incurable blood cancer, myeloma and its related conditions.  We provide support and influence access to treatments, while researching a cure.  Thanks to life-extending treatments and support, today many people affected by myeloma are able to live longer and to live well.  Together, we support, so no one faces myeloma alone. 

 We are committed to bringing together the best and brightest people to help us ensure that every person affected by myeloma has an empowered present and a hopeful future.

 Our ultimate goal is to find a cure and make myeloma history. Until then, our mission is to help every person living with myeloma, live well, for as long as possible. We are committed to diagnosing myeloma earlier, discovering and sharing knowledge, transforming the patient experience and influencing positive change.

Our culture

 Wellbeing and staff engagement are at the heart of our culture.  We offer employees a range of benefits including a pension salary exchange scheme, flexitime, flexible working which includes both home and hub-based office working, health plan, employee assistance plan and holiday purchase scheme. We are committed to providing learning and development opportunities for all our employees.

How to apply

 If you think you would be a great fit for this role, get in touch and tell us more about yourself by sending us:

1. A cover letter (no more than 2 pages long) telling us more about you and what you think makes you a good fit for this role

2. A CV that sets out your career history, with key responsibilities and achievements

Applications close at 9.00 am on 23 February 2026.  First interviews will be held on 2 March 2026, with second and third stages taking place on 4 and 9 March 2026.

Myeloma UK is an equal opportunities employer and always welcomes applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of:

· sex

· race

· disability

· age

· sexual orientation

· gender reassignment

· religion or belief

· marital status

· or pregnancy and maternity

Please note, you will be asked to provide evidence of your eligibility to work in the UK prior to interview selection.

We are seeking a leader with a hands-on approach to lead our small team of administrative staff and support our Board of Trustees and members to help shape and implement our strategy for the future. You will manage the day-to-day operations of the organisation, translating the strategy into practice to help the organisation grow and deliver real value to our members.

About Us
ACAT is a charity dedicated to advancing Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) through training, accreditation and the provision of continuous professional development to CAT Therapists. Also, through research and promotion of CAT as a valuable and valued talking therapy.

About you
We are looking for someone who is an experienced leader with a knowledge of and understanding of CAT who is:
A strategic thinker
Able to set, manage and report on budgets
An excellent communicator with a proven track record of implementing change

Why Join ACAT
The opportunity to work with dedicated professionals to develop CAT training and the governance of CAT therapists
30 days annual leave for FTE (Pro Rata)
Flexible working arrangements with both home working and some team-based hours each month at the office in Dorchester, Dorset, and attendance at ad hoc meetings and events in person within the UK from time to time.

This is a permanent contract; part-time flexible 14 hours per week subject to successful completion of a 6-month probationary period.

Closing date: Wednesday 11th February 2026

Our Time Charity is seeking an experienced Development Manager to help grow and embed our early help and family mental health services across the UK.

This is a senior, outward-facing role focused on securing statutory income, developing high-quality tenders, and building strong relationships with local authorities, Family Hubs and strategic partners. A key priority will be positioning KidsTime Workshops as a recognised, commissioned early help offer within local authority family support systems.

Working closely with the CEO, you will identify high-impact opportunities, navigate commissioning processes, and help ensure more children affected by parental mental illness receive timely, preventative support.

This role is ideal for someone with experience in local authority commissioning, business development or statutory income generation, who understands early intervention and wants to use their skills to create lasting social impact.

To learn more about the role, responsibilities and how to apply, please download the full recruitment pack.

The International Prader-Willi Syndrome Organisation (IPWSO) is seeking a talented and motivated CEO who will deliver our organisational strategy which aims to improve the lives of all those affected by a rare genetically determined disorder called Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). 

The role of CEO at IPWSO is both challenging and rewarding. You can help deliver change for people affected by PWS from across the globe by helping us build solidarity, promoting scientific reasoning and research, helping to foster new relationships, supporting our members, and striving for equality for everyone affected by the syndrome.

You will work alongside passionate volunteers and experts in PWS from across all continents and with a skilled and small staff team based in the UK. We are all dedicated to making a tangible difference!

For the full person specification and the JD, please refer to the attachment below.

#CEO #Chief Executive #Chief Executive Officer 

Ataxia UK is in an exciting phase of expansion in its Fundraising activity, specifically regarding investment in a Philanthropy function with a dedicated member of staff. In the past, High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI) have been managed reactively by the CEO and other Fundraising staff as opportunities have arisen. Ataxia UK (AUK) now wants to make a step change, in response to identified potential within the current fundraising landscape, towards strategic management of a pipeline of HNWI. As part of this, AUK is looking to engage a consultant on a fixed term contract, to work closely with the Senior Philanthropy Manager to undertake comprehensive research & scoping, in order to populate a HNWI pipeline for AUK. 

Please note, due to the large number of applications we receive, you will only be contacted should we wish to invite you to interview.

We are Recruiting for Development Officers in Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Lancashire. 

Join Inclusive North to deliver The Phoenix Way programme and help drive meaningful, community-led change. As a Development Officer, you’ll play a vital role in growing partnerships, strengthening funding opportunities, and amplifying the voices of marginalised communities.

This is an exciting opportunity to work within a collaborative organisation where innovation and impact sit at the heart of everything we do. You’ll support partnership development, coordinate projects, and contribute to capacity-building activities that ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of TPW’s mission. Working closely with a passionate team and diverse stakeholders, you’ll help shape initiatives that create lasting social impact and strengthen local funding ecosystems.

If you’re motivated by purpose, thrive in collaborative environments, and want your work to make a real difference, this role offers the chance to grow, lead, and contribute to meaningful change.

We are recruiting for: 

X1 FTE Development Officer in Lancashire (Inclusive North)

X2 FTE Development Officers in Greater Manchester. (GMECN)

X1 FTE Development Officer for Merseyside & Cheshire (One Knowsley) 

The aplication window is open unti 2nd February, but we hold the option to close the window earlier depending on the number of applicants.

What We Offer: 

Salary of £32,115 

Pension: 5% Contribution 

How to Apply?

Please send your CV, along with a covering letter, no more than 2 sides of A4 (Font Size: 12) OR:​​

A CV or a short video (no longer than 5 minutes long) answering the following question:

​ What excites you most about this role, and how is it directly connected to your skills and experience? (Consider the requirements of the specification, as found below.

Overview

We’re looking for a Senior Business Development Officer to join our national Business Development Team. This is an ideal next step for you if you’re an experienced bid writer looking to grow your career in business development, make social impact, and develop your leadership skills. We’d particularly like to hear from people that have experience of writing high-scoring drug and alcohol service bids.

Location: London, Brighton, Manchester or Leeds.

Salary: £43,384.62 − £47,792.23 per year. If you’re based in London, you’ll receive an additional £4,133.14 per year for Inner London Weighting.

Contract: Permanent.

Responsibilities

About the role

Change Grow Live is a health and social care charity. Across the country, we support people to make positive changes in their lives, including around drug and alcohol use, smoking, homelessness and criminal justice.

As a Senior Business Development Officer, you’ll play a lead role in the development and writing of tenders and proposals for a variety of health and social care services. This role offers a great opportunity to learn and develop while using your established skills, and you’ll be encouraged to take on more responsibility as you progress.

This role offers a great opportunity to learn and develop while using your established skills, and you’ll be encouraged to take on more responsibility as you progress, including line management opportunities.

Your day-to-day will include:

• Writing and editing complex and highly weighted bid responses, working to short timeframes
• Project managing the writing of key tenders with support from a Business Development Manager
• Supporting the development of Assistant Business Development Officers and Business Development Officers, with the potential of providing line management
• Working with staff across the organisation and our partners to develop bids that reflect best practice respond to local needs
• Producing and coordinating detailed research for upcoming opportunities, including meeting with subject matter experts, analysing data and collating evidence
• Creating presentations, diagrams and reports
• Participating in and leading reviews of our bid and proposal processes.

About you         

We’re looking for candidates with proven experience of writing tenders, proposals or grant applications in health and social care.

You are:

• A highly competent communicator with a successful track record in bid writing, ideally for drug and alcohol treatment or related services
• Experienced in leading smaller bids and proposals
• Able to analyse data and interpret evidence, with good IT and research skills
• Solution-focused, creative and proactive
• Happy to give and receive constructive, challenging feedback
• Collaborative and contribute to a positive culture team
• Ready to work hard to deliver on CGL’s values and mission.

What we offer

You’ll be able to access structured training, development and mentoring as part of a supportive team. There’s a clear progression pathway within the team, from Senior Business Development Officer to Manager, Senior Manager, Deputy Director, and Director. Several of our current Business Development Managers were previously in the Senior Business Development Officer role.

We also offer:

• The option to work from home for some of the week
• Wellbeing support, including an employee assistance programme and an hour each week for wellbeing activities of your choice (find out more here).

We want our workforce to represent the diversity of the people and communities we work with. We pride ourselves on an inclusive and supportive workplace, evidenced through our Investors in People silver status.

We’re happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that you need to be successful. Please let us know in your application or at any stage of the process if you would like to discuss this.

 Before you apply

In the application portal, there’s a section called ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’. This is your chance to tell us about why you’re a good fit for this job – we won’t be able to consider your application unless it’s filled in. Please explain how you meet each of the person specification criteria (listed at the end of the job description). Use clear examples of your experience (this link contains some useful guidance). As guidance, written statements should not exceed 1,000 words. You can address multiple criteria together where you think it makes sense.

Interviews will be held 16th – 23rd February 2026 via MS Teams. We’ll also ask shortlisted candidates to complete a written task online during this timeframe, at a time of your choice. We may hold a pre-qualification stage task (e.g. presentation) depending on the number of applicants.

We encourage applications from individuals who may not meet every requirement but are excited about the role. We value lived experience of substance use, homelessness, and/or multiple disadvantages.

We’re a Disability Confident Committed employer. Under our Disability Confident interview scheme, we will offer an interview to disabled candidates where they meet our selection criteria in their application. Some of our roles attract a high volume of applications and in some circumstances where it is not practicable or appropriate, we may limit the number of interviews offered to disabled and non-disabled candidates. Please confirm in the ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’ part of the application if you are applying under this scheme. We will provide reasonable adjustments as needed.

Check the job description and team explainer for more information. Contact Yasmin Gilders to discuss this role further.

What our people say

Holly, Senior Business Development Officer said:

“What are your favourite parts of the job? The amount we learn from bid to bid. No two services are the same and I’m constantly coming across amazing individuals, teams and interventions. Being part of a team that helps share and celebrate great work, and support other services to implement new and exciting initiatives is really rewarding.

How would you describe the team? Helpful, real and full of knowledge. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and is happy to share their skills, knowledge and learning. I’ve never felt like I’ve asked a silly question, and I don’t feel like I must put a on ‘work mask’ every day.

What were your highlights from last year? Becoming a Senior and working across 7 different bids or direct awards last year. It was busy but I learnt so much, made some great connections with people across the organisation and feel excited for 2026.”

Fran, who progressed from this role to Business Development Manager last year:

“How did the role help you progress? The Senior Business Development Officer role sets you up to well to progress into a Business Development Manager role, as you begin to get involved in managing writing teams, reviewing written responses, engaging with Service Managers and Directors in model development and hold line management responsibilities. I was in the Senior Business Development Officer role for just over a year and a half before successfully applying to the Manager role.

How would you describe the team? The Business Development team are incredibly supportive and will give you the opportunity to develop in areas that you’re interested in. My manager supported to me build skills and experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone but enabled me to progress into the Business Development Manager role.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying? Alongside developing your writing skills, this role is a great place to shape your leadership and management skills. If you don’t have line management experience, don’t let this put you off.”

Salary Range (pro rata if part time)

CGL points 39 to 43 (£43,384.61 - £47,792.23)

Interview Date

16/2/2026

Closing Date

8/2/2026

Are you looking for an exciting and challenging role which will help to shape the future of a national charity working on a key social justice challenge?Are you excited to take on a role which will fuel the charity’s work with its service users, supporters and other key stakeholders? 

Are you an ambitious and enthusiastic early career partnerships, fundraising or account management professional who wants to use your talents to improve the lives of people across the UK?If so, then we’d love to hear from you. 

With a range of exciting partnerships and initiatives for you to work on with a values-led, energetic and determined team, The Hygiene Bank is excited to be find a new colleague to join us in our mission to alleviate hygiene poverty, and to work to end it for good. 

About The Hygiene Bank 

Hygiene poverty is not being able to afford many of the everyday hygiene and personal grooming products most of us take for granted. The reality of low income is that it restricts people’s options, leaving us caught between being able to heat our homes, pay the rent, eat, or be clean.It is washing hair, bodies, faces and clothes in the same cheap washing up liquid used for the dishes. It is not being able to replace a toothbrush when needed or sharing a toothbrush because one each just isn't an option. It is having to choose between shaving foam and razors or the transport fare to a job interview. 

Hygiene Poverty is the hidden crisis facing the UK. In May 2024, The Hygiene Bank published their second groundbreaking research into the incidence and impact of hygiene poverty. It found that over 4.1 million adults across the country are currently experiencing hygiene poverty and that it is both alarmingly widespread, increasing and disproportionately impacts the most vulnerable. It stops people from participating in society, feeds the mental health crisis and blocks routes out of poverty. It is simply unjust. 

At The Hygiene Bank, we believe that everyone deserves to feel clean. That is why our network of projects exists – to give people access to the basics they need. 

Read more about our work on our website, along with our Impact Report and research Hygiene Poverty 2024

About the role 

As our Partnership Officer, you will have the exciting opportunity to make a huge difference in improving the lives of people living in hygiene poverty.

Reporting into the Head of Brand and Corporate Partnerships, the Partnership Officer plays a pivotal role in the brand and corporate team and is responsible for supporting, stewarding, renewing, and growing our brand and corporate partners to meet our income targets and to source donated product for our service users. Our partners range from emerging brands to strategic corporate partners and reflect a combination of financial support, skills-based support, brand donations and volunteering.

The role is varied and requires outstanding relationship building and communication skills, strong time management, excellent written and verbal communication skills, meticulous record keeping and relationship management. You will be required to engage and influence a wide range of partner stakeholders, as well as collaborating across our teams to meet the needs of our partners.

If you fit this profile and want to use your talents to improve the lives of people across the UK and are interested in remote working opportunities in a flexible organisation with a values-led ethos, we would love to hear from you! 

Key Responsibilities 

Lunch & Learn facilitation 

• Coordinate and deliver engaging Lunch & Learn sessions for corporate and brand partners, both virtually and in person, speaking about hygiene poverty and the charity to engage potential partners

• Work with internal teams and volunteers to ensure sessions are informative, inspiring, and aligned with The Hygiene Bank’s values 

Track bookings, attendance, feedback, and outcomes to support reporting and improvement 

Corporate Volunteering Coordination 

• Manage corporate volunteering opportunities, including warehouse days, collection drives, and community-based activities 

• Liaise with corporate partners to understand capacity, expectations, and objectives 

• Coordinate logistics, schedules, and communications to ensure positive volunteer experiences 

• Work closely with regional and volunteer teams to match opportunities with partner needs 

Relationship Building & Account Management 

• Support with outreach and new partnership development 

• Build strong, long-term relationships with corporate partners through regular communication and engagement 

• Attend in person partner events

• Act as the day-to-day account manager for a portfolio of corporate partners 

• Ensure partners feel valued, informed, and connected to The Hygiene Bank’s impact 

• Identify opportunities to deepen partnerships through repeat engagement, volunteering, fundraising, or advocacy 

Administration, Reporting & Collaboration 

• Maintain accurate records of partner activity and engagement using Salesforce CRM system 

• Track partnership outcomes, impact metrics, and engagement levels 

• Support reporting for funders, partners, and internal stakeholders 

• Collaborate with fundraising, communications, and operations teams to ensure joined-up partnership delivery 

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Experience in partnerships, account management, fundraising, or corporate engagement 

• Strong relationship-building and communication skills 

• Experience coordinating events, sessions, or volunteering activities 

• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail 

• Ability to manage multiple partners and priorities simultaneously 

• Confident delivering presentations or facilitating sessions to groups 

• Passion for social impact and alignment with The Hygiene Bank’s mission 

Desirable 

• Experience working in the charity or not-for-profit sector 

• Experience delivering corporate Lunch & Learns or workplace engagement programmes 

• Familiarity with CRM systems and impact reporting 

Skills & Attributes 

• Friendly, professional, and confident communicator 

• Proactive and solution-focused 

• Strong time management and organisational skills 

• Collaborative team player 

• Comfortable working independently and using initiative 

What We Offer 

• The opportunity to make a tangible impact in tackling hygiene poverty 

• A supportive, mission-driven team culture 

• Flexible working arrangements 

• Training and development opportunities 

• All travel and expenses paid in line with our expenses policy

Please note that applicants need to be resident in the UK and have the right to work in the UK. 

The Hygiene Bank is committed to promoting equality of opportunity and values diversity of culture among our staff and volunteers.  We actively welcome applications that will help increase the diversity of our workforce, welcoming applications from those with disabilities and from minority groups and from different backgrounds and experiences. 
 

The Hygiene Bank reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications

The BE Support Trust is recruiting for a Fundraising Officer (Part Time).   We are seeking a strategic, motivated, and relationship-focused Fundraising Officer to help us diversify income and grow our fundraising activity.

What you will do

• Develop and deliver an annual fundraising plan aligned with strategic priorities.
• Research new funding streams and produce pipeline/KPI reports.
• Prepare high quality trust, foundation and grant applications.
• Build and manage corporate partnerships and sponsorship proposals.
• Lead fundraising elements of charity events and community activities.
• Support donor stewardship and maintain accurate CRM/Gift Aid records

What you will bring

• Demonstrable fundraising experience
• Excellent writing and bid/proposal development skills
• Strong relationship abilities
• Organisational confidence managing multiple deadlines

Why Join us

• A small supportive and committed team
• Meaningful work where you see the impact everyday
• Opportunity to shape fundraising in a growing charity
• Flexible working and part-time structure

Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.

The opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and values-led Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead East London Waterworks Park in this next phase of our development. This is a rare opportunity to shape the first paid executive leadership role in a pioneering environmental charity.

The CEO role is wide-ranging and dynamic, and will evolve as East London Waterworks Park grows. The CEO will provide strategic leadership to help realise our ambition to purchase the Thames Water depot site in East London, while strengthening our capacity to deliver community-led rewilding and nature-recovery projects across London in partnership with landowners, local authorities and other stakeholders.

An important aspect of the role will involve introducing a sustainable staffing model that complements and develops East London Waterworks Park’s existing volunteer ecosystem, and strengthens our culture, vision and values. The CEO will be supported in this work by long-standing volunteers at both trustee board and operational level, who believe in the benefits this organisational change will bring.

About East London Waterworks Park

East London Waterworks Park is a community-led charity working to reconnect people and nature. Starting from nature-first principles, and with inclusivity at the heart of everything we do, we work with communities to co-design spaces to unlock a chain of positive changes that culminate in the long-term transformation of people and place.

Our work includes:

• co-designing East London Waterworks Park with the East London community, working towards purchasing a 14-acre Thames Water depot in Waltham Forest and transforming it into a biodiverse urban park with free, accessible wild swimming and welcoming community spaces

• co-designing other nature-first spaces on disused or brownfield land in London, returning land to nature in collaboration with local communities to encourage long–term community stewardship

• hosting engagement, education, and empowerment activities that build skills, confidence and deeper connections to nature.

East London Waterworks Park is a sociocratic organisation, with a decentralised organisational structure and a transparent and collaborative approach to decision making. We have grown organically since 2019, responding flexibly to the challenges we have encountered but always committed to our core vision: creating a new kind of urban green and blue space: one that is ecologically rich, inclusive, and shaped by the people and wildlife who use it.

East London Waterworks Park is currently entirely run by volunteers but we recognise the need to transition to a more sustainable structure. We want to introduce paid employees to ensure we can deliver the exciting projects planned in 2026 and beyond, while retaining our strong community-led ethos.

More information

If this sounds exciting, please review the attached recruitment package.

Overview

We’re looking for a strong bid writer to join our successful national Business Development Team as a Business Development Officer. This is an excellent opportunity to grow your career in business development within a successful team that prioritises social impact, development and progression. We’d particularly like to hear from people that have experience of writing high-scoring drug and alcohol service bids.

Location: London, Brighton, Manchester or Leeds.

Salary: £37,184.91 – £39,891.91 per year. If you’re based in London, you’ll receive an additional £4,133.14 per year - Inner London Weighting.

Contract: Permanent.

Responsibilities

About the role

Change Grow Live is a health and social care charity. Across the country, we support people to make positive changes in their lives, including around drug and alcohol use, smoking, homelessness and criminal justice.

As a Business Development Officer, you’ll play a key part in helping us secure new contracts and deliver high‑quality services for adults, children and young people. You’ll work with colleagues across the organisation to develop excellent written material for bids and proposals. This role offers a great opportunity to learn and develop while using your established skills, and you’ll be encouraged to take on more responsibility as you progress.

Your day-to-day will include:

• Writing and editing multiple complex bid responses within live tenders
• Working with colleagues across the organisation to gather information and evidence
• Project managing smaller bids and proposals with support from a Senior Business Development Officer or Business Development Manager
• Completing online research, analysing data and collating evidence
• Creating presentations, diagrams and reports
• Helping improve how we do things.

About you

We’re looking for candidates with proven experience of writing tenders, proposals or grant applications, or writing in other professional or academic environments, for instance journalism, research or marketing.

You are:

• A highly competent communicator with excellent writing skills
• Able to analyse data and interpret evidence, with good IT and research skills
• Solution-focused, creative and proactive
• Happy to give and receive challenging feedback
• Collaborative and contribute to a positive culture team
• Ready to work hard to deliver on CGL’s values and mission.

What we offer

You’ll be able to access structured training, development and mentoring as part of a supportive team. There’s a clear progression pathway within the team, from Officer to Senior Officer, Manager, Senior Manager, Deputy Director, and Director. Several of our current Seniors and Managers were previously in the Business Development Officer role.

We also offer:

• The option to work from home for some of the week
• Wellbeing support, including an employee assistance programme and an hour each week for wellbeing activities of your choice (find out more here).

We want our workforce to represent the diversity of the people and communities we work with. We pride ourselves on an inclusive and supportive workplace, evidenced through our Investors in People silver status.

We’re happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that you need to be successful. Please let us know in your application or at any stage of the process if you would like to discuss this.

Before you apply

In the application portal, there’s a section called ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’. This is your chance to tell us about why you’re a good fit for this job – we won’t be able to consider your application unless it’s filled in. Please explain how you meet each of the person specification criteria (listed at the end of the job description). Use clear examples of your experience (this link contains some useful guidance). As guidance, written statements should not exceed 1,000 words. You can address multiple criteria together where you think it makes sense.

Interviews will be held 16th – 23rd February 2026 via MS Teams. We’ll also ask shortlisted candidates to complete a written task online during this timeframe, at a time of your choice. We may hold a pre-qualification stage task (e.g. presentation) depending on the number of applicants.

We encourage applications from individuals who may not meet every requirement but are excited about the role. We value lived experience of substance use, homelessness, and/or multiple disadvantages.

We’re a Disability Confident Committed employer. Under our Disability Confident interview scheme, we will offer an interview to disabled candidates where they meet our selection criteria in their application. Some of our roles attract a high volume of applications and in some circumstances where it is not practicable or appropriate, we may limit the number of interviews offered to disabled and non-disabled candidates. Please confirm in the ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’ part of the application if you are applying under this scheme. We will provide reasonable adjustments as needed.

Check the job description and team explainer for more information. You can contact Yasmin Gilders to discuss this role further.

What our people say

Kitty, Business Development Officer:

“What was your route into your current job? I graduated with an English Literature degree in 2019 and started out as an Editorial Assistant in publishing. Furloughed during the pandemic, I took the opportunity to complete a master’s in English Literature before moving into medical communications, where I also worked as an Editorial Assistant. While I enjoyed the work, I wanted a role that allowed me to get more involved in the research and writing, which led me to join CGL as an Assistant Business Development Officer in 2023. After gaining bid writing experience, I started as Business Development Officer in 2024.

What are your favourite parts of the job? I love how varied the job is. One day I might be deep in research, whether that’s desk-based or visiting a service in person, while the next I’m writing and editing responses for a live bid or even creating visuals. No two days are the same, and variety keeps the job exciting.

How would you describe the team? The team is incredibly lovely and supportive. There’s always someone ready to offer help, share advice, or even just have a quick chat, which makes it a really positive and collaborative environment to work in.

What were your highlights from last year? Being part of the team that won the Blackpool contract. We all invested a lot of time and effort into it, and the whole organisation was excited by the outcome.

Is there anything you would say to someone considering applying? Go for it! It’s a fantastic role within a supportive, friendly team, and there’s so much variety and opportunity to learn. If you’re considering applying, you won’t regret it.”

Holly, who progressed from Business Development Officer to Senior Business Development Officer last year:

“What are your favourite parts of this work? The amount we learn from bid to bid. No two services are the same and I’m constantly coming across amazing individuals, teams and interventions. Being part of a team that helps share and celebrate great work, and support other services to implement new and exciting initiatives is really rewarding.

How would you describe the team? Helpful, real and full of knowledge. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and is happy to share their skills, knowledge and learning. I’ve never felt like I’ve asked a silly question, and I don’t feel like I must put a on ‘work mask’.

What were your highlights from last year? Becoming a Senior and working across 7 different bids or direct awards last year. It was busy but I learnt so much, made some great connections with people across the organisation and feel excited for 2026.”

Salary Range (pro rata if part time)

CGL points 33 to 36 (£37,184.90 - £39,891.91)

Interview Date

16/2/2026

Closing Date

8/2/2026

Overview

We’re looking for an Assistant Business Development Officer (Bid Writer) to join our national Business Development Team. This is a great opportunity for an excellent writer to start or grow your bid writing career in a successful team with progression opportunities. 

Location: London, Brighton, Manchester or Leeds. 

Salary: £27,861.26 − £32,002.35 per year. If you’re based in London, you’ll receive an additional £4,133.14 per year as Inner London Weighing. 

Contract: 12 months fixed term. 

Responsibilities

About the role 

Change Grow Live is a health and social care charity. Across the country, we support people to make positive changes in their lives, including around drug and alcohol use, smoking, homelessness and criminal justice. 

As an Assistant Business Development Officer, you’ll play a key part in helping us secure new contracts and deliver high quality services for adults, children and young people. You’ll support the development of bids and proposals by writing, researching and collaborating with colleagues across the organisation. 

Your day-to-day will include: 

• Writing and editing bid responses 
• Working with colleagues across the organisation and our partner agencies 
• Completing online research, analysing data and collating evidence 
• Creating presentations, diagrams and reports 
• Helping improve how we do things. 

This is a developmental role, and you’ll receive ongoing support, guidance and training to help you progress. 

About you 

We’re looking for excellent writers who share our passion for supporting people to make positive changes in their lives. You don’t need previous experience in business development, but experience in health and social care, writing, sales, research, or data is beneficial. 

You are: 

• A clear, concise and engaging writer 
• Motivated to learn and develop, welcoming feedback 
• Collaborative and contribute to a positive culture team 
• Curious and analytical 
• Solution-focused, creative and proactive 
• Ready to work hard to deliver on CGL’s values and mission. 

What we offer 

You’ll be able to access structured training, development and mentoring as part of a supportive team. There’s a clear progression pathway within the team. We have a great record of people quickly progressing to Business Development Officer and Senior Business Development Officer roles as they take on increased volume, complexity, and leadership across proposals. 

We also offer: 

• The option to work from home for some of the week 
• Wellbeing support, including an employee assistance programme and an hour each week for wellbeing activities of your choice (find out more here). 

We want our workforce to represent the diversity of the people and communities we work with. We pride ourselves on an inclusive and supportive workplace, evidenced through our Investors in People silver status. 

We’re happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that you need to be successful. Please let us know in your application or at any stage of the process if you would like to discuss this. 

Before you apply 

In the application portal, there’s a section called ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’. This is your chance to tell us about why you’re a good fit for this job – we won’t be able to consider your application unless it’s filled in. Please explain how you meet each of the person specification criteria (listed at the end of the job description). Use clear examples of your experience (this link contains some useful guidance). As guidance, written statements should not exceed 1,000 words. You can address multiple criteria together where you think it makes sense. 

Interviews will be held 16th – 23rd February 2026 via MS Teams. We’ll also ask shortlisted candidates to complete a written task online during this timeframe, at a time of your choice. We may hold a pre-qualification stage task (e.g. presentation) depending on the number of applicants. 

We encourage applications from individuals who may not meet every requirement but are excited about the role. We value lived experience of substance use, homelessness, and/or multiple disadvantages. 

We’re a Disability Confident Committed employer. Under our Disability Confident interview scheme, we will offer an interview to disabled candidates where they meet our selection criteria in their application. Some of our roles attract a high volume of applications and in some circumstances where it is not practicable or appropriate, we may limit the number of interviews offered to disabled and non-disabled candidates. Please confirm in the ‘how you meet the criteria for the role’ part of the application if you are applying under this scheme. We will provide reasonable adjustments as needed. 

Check the job description and team explainer for more information. You can contact Yasmin Gilders to discuss this role further. 

What our people say 

George, who progressed from Assistant Business Development Officer to Business Development Officer last year: 

“What was your route into the team? I came into Business Development after starting out in frontline roles in local authorities and then a housing charity, where I realised I wanted to continue having an impact on people’s lives, but on a bigger scale. The Assistant Business Development Officer role was a perfect progression, and after about a year I successfully applied for a Business Development Officer role. This felt really manageable given the space for development as an Assistant Business Development Officer. 

What are your favourite parts of the job? Winning contracts is a really great feeling, especially when I know they’ve been shaped with service users and colleague to make sure we’re designing services that offer the best support to the most people. I also value the constant opportunities to learn, feeling supported in my development, and seeing the decisions I’m involved in having a real impact on people’s lives.

What were your highlights from last year? Our team away day in Liverpool, which was great fun as well as chance to hear from the managers of our new Liverpool service. It was one of the first bids I worked on as an Assistant Business Development Officer, and it was amazing to see our bid come to life, being delivered by a passionate group of people.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying? I’d definitely say go for it, and once you start, embrace how much there is to learn! Make the most of a really knowledgeable and supportive team, of managers who genuinely want you to succeed, and of all the opportunities to try new things and develop new skills.” 

Holly, who has progressed from Assistant Business Development Officer to Senior Business Development Officer: 

“What was your route into the team? I was a psychology graduate and teacher training drop out! With my experience of working in schools and academic research into young people’s substance use, I started working as an Education Lead for one of CGL’s young person’s services. After a year I applied to join the Business Development Team, wanting to utilise my experience of working frontline and my love of research and writing. I’ve progressed from Assistant to Officer and then Senior Officer since joining the team in 2022.  

How would you describe the team? Helpful, real and full of knowledge. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and is happy to share their skills, knowledge and learning. I’ve never felt like I’ve asked a silly question, and I don’t feel like I must put a on ‘work mask’.

What would you say to someone thinking of applying? Not to think they can’t do it just because they don’t have experience in bid writing or business development. It’s more important to be able to demonstrate that they’re a confident professional writer and are really passionate about working in the drug and alcohol support sector.” 

Salary Range (pro rata if part time)

CGL points 23 to 28 (£27,861.26 - £32,002.35)

Interview Date

16/2/2026

Closing Date

8/2/2026