Strategy jobs

Join a movement transforming how communities create lasting change. This isn't a typical charity role—it's a chance to shape the future of place-based working across the UK and help lead a growing organisation.

Place Matters is a small, entrepreneurial charity punching above its weight. We work at the intersection of communities, public services, funders, and policymakers to tackle the root causes of inequality and create changes that communities want to see. Our approach? Empower communities to lead change in their own places, learn from what works, and influence the systems that hold them back.

Why this role matters

This is a senior position on our Executive team, reporting directly to a co-CEO. You'll play a leadership role in developing our organisation—shaping strategy, building our team, and deepening partnerships. We're looking for someone colleagues and Trustees trust to make sound decisions on behalf of our mission.

Learning and practice development is at the heart of everything we do. You'll design and lead learning partnerships that build the capabilities of communities and organisations to work differently. You'll capture insights from the ground and turn them into accessible tools, frameworks, and resources that make place-based working more effective for everyone.

You need to be a team player, confident and with strong opinions, but low ego and collegiate

What you'll do

• Lead the development and delivery of Learning and Practice Development Partnerships
• Initiate, convene and participate in ‘field-building’ efforts that aim to influence the broader place-based change sector, bringing together community organisations, public sector organisations, policy makers, foundations and businesses to build broader support for community centred place-based change
• Develop Place Matters thought and practice leadership
• Draw together the themes and patterns from learning into regular blogs and publications to make the learning as widely accessible as possible and influence key policy makers and funders
• Initiate and convene field-building efforts to influence the broader place-based change sector
• Build a wide network of place-based practitioners from all sectors
• Play a key role in business development, securing new partnerships, fundraising, and improving organisational efficiency

See job description (JD) for full details

What makes this role special

• Executive leadership: Part of the leadership team shaping organisational direction
• Real autonomy: Lead your own projects, design new partnerships, represent Place Matters externally
• Learning culture: We practice what we preach—continuous learning and innovation are built in
• Flexible working: Hybrid arrangement, negotiable location, with UK travel (up to 50 days annually)
• Competitive salary: £65,000-£75,000 (negotiable based on experience)

Practical details

Ideally 37.5 hours per week (flexible) but we'll consider part-time. UK travel required, including occasional overnight stays and some evening/weekend work.

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from disabled people and people from diverse backgrounds.

We'll conduct interviews on 19th and 21st January.

To lead the development and delivery of Women for Refugee Women’s (WRW) campaigns and communications strategy, ensuring compelling public engagement that amplifies the voices of refugee and asylum-seeking women, strengthens WRW’s profile, and mobilises supporters to take action. This role combines strategic communications and media liaison with impactful campaigning to influence public opinion and drive systemic change.

We are part of the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative. The network supports inclusive recruitment of people with lived experience of the UK asylum or immigration system. If this is your experience, you can find useful resources on the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative website.

To develop policy goals and recommendations in line with Women for Refugee Women’s (WRW) overarching campaigns strategy to improve the lives of women seeking asylum in the UK; to develop and deliver policy interventions such as policy briefings, evidence for parliamentary committees, responses to inquiries and consultations; to plan and carry out research projects for influencing purposes, ensuring that these are informed by and co-delivered with women in WRW’s network.

We are part of the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative. The network supports inclusive recruitment of people with lived experience of the UK asylum or immigration system. If this is your experience, you can find useful resources on the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative website.

Devon in Sight (The Devon County Association for the Blind) was established in 1925 and has a long and proud history of serving people who are blind and partially sighted and their families in Devon.

Our aim is to support people on their sight loss journey by focusing on our four key service areas of Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG), Independent Living, Health & Wellbeing, and Influencing Change (Making Devon a better place for people affected by sight loss to live and work).

The Role:

As our long-standing Chief Executive Officer prepares for retirement, we are seeking an experienced senior manager to take over the leadership of this dynamic and innovative charity.

The Chief Executive Officer will be based at the charity’s head office in Splatford, Exeter. You will be responsible to the Board of Trustees and will represent, promote and support the charity, whilst ensuring the smooth running of all aspects of operations and future growth.

You will need to work flexibly and strategically to assist the organisation to achieve its strategic priorities, develop and grow. We are looking for someone who is a confident and empathetic manager with previous experience gained within a charity setting.

You will be a natural and inspiring communicator, equally confident in networking with our stakeholders, talking to the people we support and writing compelling content. In addition, you will be computer literate and financially astute, able to work with a Board of Trustees, attend their meetings and provide them with timely and accurate information.

Job Type: Permanent, Full-time (37 hours per week).

Location: Unit 3, Splatford Barton, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7XY

Salary: £46,500.

Other Benefits:

• Annual Leave entitlement is 25 days per annum plus statutory bank holidays. Additional leave days are awarded after 2, 5 and 10 years’ service.
• Some flexible, remote working can be negotiated.
• A pension scheme that includes a 3% employer contribution with the option of joining our Salary Sacrifice Scheme to increase this.
• A comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• A nominated free car parking space at our current premises.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategy & Governance: Developing and implementing the charity’s vision, mission, values and strategic priorities in partnership with the Trustees.
• Operational Leadership: Overseeing service delivery, maintaining our Matrix Standard Accreditation, monitoring services we provide to ensure they are always to a high standard.
• Financial & Fundraising: Managing budgets, maintaining compliance, and leading fundraising strategies (Individual Trusts & Grants, Legacies, Community and Corporate Fundraising and  Legacy management).
• Compliance & Risk: Ensuring the charity strictly adheres to statutory, legal (GDPR, Charities Act, Companies Act), and safeguarding requirements.
• Partnerships & Advocacy: Acting as the "voice of blind and partially sighted people in Devon", building relationships with key stakeholders across the Health & Social Care and Third Sector.
• People Management: HR, recruitment, managing and supporting staff and volunteers.

How to Apply

If you are a supportive and proactive leader, passionate about making a real difference to the lives of people affected by sight loss across Devon, we want to hear from you!

For a full application pack, including job description, application letter and application forms, please visit our website. 

Interviews will be held on the 15th and 16th January 2026, in person, at our head office in Kennford, Exeter. 

Direct Marketing Acquisition Manager (Direct Response)

You will develop and oversee a specialist area of direct response marketing, taking responsibility for paid media activity resulting in giving and prize-led support, and the associated programme and products. You will ensure the highest standard of quality and compliance, across a diverse programme mix. You’ll manage significant income and expenditure budgets and deliver exceptional fundraising campaigns to drive an ambitious growth plan, accelerating progress towards a cure.

Collaborating with different teams across the charity, you’ll be planning, managing and delivering the direct marketing programme across a range of media including digital, TV, telephone, and print. Activities in the acquisition portfolio are diverse; from delivering an established, successful core programme to playing an important role in exciting cross-organisational projects.

You’ll work with a team of three across a range of channels, media and projects at the charity; speaking to range of audiences with one theme in common – compelling people to stand with us for a cure.

Key Responsibilities:

Programme and campaign management

· Lead the development and delivery of the direct marketing acquisition programme and strategy, with a particular focus on the direct response elements.

· To be responsible for reviewing and developing our Weekly Lottery Strategy to maximize income.

· Oversee the delivery of the direct response acquisition campaigns; ensuring they are in market on time, on budget and on brand.

· Deliver consistent, structured testing to ensure continuous improvement. Where appropriate and worthwhile, ensure testing is applied to all activity and reviewed with recommendations acted upon.

· Involvement in charity-wide projects and groups; putting supporters at the heart of what we do, as well as playing a key role in the delivery of our Fundraising & Marketing Strategy.

· Management of all key acquisition suppliers including routine reviews, briefing, optimisation and general relationship management.

· Annual planning of acquisition direct marketing; including input to operational planning and development of relevant marketing plans.

· Ensure the campaign planning and delivery cycle is adhered to across the team, and all stakeholders are well managed.

· Ensure routine end of campaign reviews and analysis (with suppliers as well as your own), with proactive adaptation of plans to optimise results.

· Ensure contingency plans and activities are in place to close any expected income gaps.

People management

· Management and development of a team of three, with two direct reports.

· Empowering team members to succeed and grow with clear, SMART goals and development plans in place.

· Complete routine 1-1 meetings and annual appraisals with direct reports.

· Developing a high performing team who work collaboratively across the charity.

· Agency relationship management across a variety of partners and suppliers, from building relationships and negotiating, to contract and routine performance reviews.

· Working closely with the Supporter Care and Data teams to ensure the acquisition activity and processes are well understood and that they can support the team as best possible.

Budget management and reporting

· Annual budgeting of direct marketing programmes and campaigns.

· Regular forecasting in line with the annual cycle, making recommendations around budget allocation and managing expectations throughout.

· KPI tracking, trend analysis and interrogation of results at all levels.

· Regular financial performance reporting.

· Programme optimisation to ensure contribution targets are met and contingency planning as required.

· Detailed reporting geared towards a longer-term view of performance, covering long-term & ROI modelling, lifetime value and considering supporter experience and engagement.

What we are looking for:

· Budget management experience – preferably across expenditure and income 

· Campaign management – specifically direct marketing campaigns

· Media planning experience – across a range of media types

· Agency management – including creative and professional acquisition fundraising agencies as well as others such as printers and market researchers

· Demonstrable people management experience

· Ability to understand complex data sets and compile meaningful reports and analysis

· Excellent attention to detail

· Strategic and critical thinking

· Getting the best out of people and agencies

· Understanding of compliance in direct marketing

Additional Information:

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

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

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

Salary: Circa £44,000 per annum, plus benefits.

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

The closing date for applications is the 4th January 2026, with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

This is an exciting role leading our committed policy team leading the fight to end child poverty in the UK. The development and implementation of a UK-wide cross-government child poverty strategy means this is a great time to join CPAG as we look to influence policy makers to adopt our evidence-based policy solutions to child poverty.

We are looking for someone to take a lead role in developing evidence-based policy positions to support CPAG’s influencing and campaigns work. You will have knowledge of political processes and how external organisations can effect change. You will have a track record of producing high quality research and analysis, including policy briefings, on social policy issues. You will have experience of managing a small team and working collaboratively to identify policy issues and develop solutions with colleagues across the organisation, as well as externally.

The postholder will be working in a fast moving, high profile and complex policy environment and will need to balance short term priorities with long term objectives. Current priorities include influencing the implementation of the forthcoming child poverty strategy, gathering and sharing analysis and expertise with the DWP as part of their review of universal credit, and monitoring the development of forthcoming changes to disability benefits.

We welcome applications from individuals with the skills and experience outlined and we can be flexible about working arrangements. We operate a hybrid working system and would be happy to discuss any flexibilities required. CPAG is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion which you can read more about in the job pack.

We welcome applications on a secondment basis.

For more information about this post and to apply download the Head of Policy job pack.

If you have questions or need specific arrangements or reasonable adjustments to take part in the selection process, please contact us.

Closing date for applications: Sunday 4th January 2026 (midnight)

Interviews will take place: Tuesday 13th January 2026

We are seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to drive the growth of our philanthropy programme as we deliver our most ambitious strategy yet including a new £200m Global Cancer Appeal for a major development in Chelsea. You’ll lead and motivate a high-performing team, while also managing a personal portfolio and securing large value gifts. This is a unique opportunity to make a real difference for people affected by cancer, working alongside passionate colleagues and dedicated supporters.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead the Philanthropy strategy and drive growth across all high‑value income streams
• Identify, cultivate and solicit major supporters to secure high value donations aligned to agreed targets, including the £200m Global Cancer Appeal.
• Recruit and work with Appeal Board members, senior volunteers and trustees to progress prospects and secure transformational gifts.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including senior clinical leaders, to shape compelling fundraising priorities and packages.
• Work with the Head of Philanthropy & Special Events and the Head of Trusts, Stewardship and Philanthropy Communications to lead, motivate and inspire our high-performing teams
• Contribute to charity‑wide leadership, governance and risk management; deputise for the Associate Director as appropriate.

About you

You bring a well‑established, highly successful career in high‑value philanthropy, with:

• A proven record of securing seven‑figure and above gifts, and developed expertise in high‑value acquisition and relationship management.
• Experience in identifying, recruiting and managing senior volunteers, and working credibly with donors, board members, VIPs and ambassadors.
• Strategic leadership of senior fundraisers and teams, driving performance, culture and process change.
• Significant budget accountability (c.£1m+), high numeracy and the ability to interpret financial reports and KPIs.
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills; confident handling complex, sensitive and confidential information.
• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, embedding inclusive practice across fundraising.

What we offer:

• Hybrid working between home and Chelsea with occasional travel to Sutton.
• Flexible working around our core hours of 10am to 4pm
• 27 days annual leave rising with length of service
• Up to 6% employer contributions subject to matched contribution from you (increasing with length of service)
• Training, support and development opportunities
• Access to the blue light discount scheme and other discounts opportunities
• Access to subsidised staff restaurants, on-site yoga and wellbeing classes, staff choir and much more
• Range of wellbeing initiatives including access to an employee assistance programme designed to save money and improve your physical, financial and mental health and wellbeing, access to free online GP appointments and free eye tests and contribution towards any glasses required for work purposes

Inclusion Matters

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds and walks of life.

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you.

Location: Hybrid – London office and home
Contract: Permanent, full time
Reporting to: Chief Executive
Working pattern: Four-day week

About Spinal Research

Every two hours, someone in the UK becomes paralysed. Globally, more than 15 million people live with paralysis. At Spinal Research, our vision is a world where paralysis can be cured. We fund groundbreaking research to deliver life-changing treatments for people with spinal cord injuries. By backing the brightest minds and fostering innovation, we are driving progress towards what could be the medical breakthrough of the 21st century: curing paralysis. We will not stop until that future is achieved.

The Role

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as Head of Strategy and Operations. This pivotal role ensures Spinal Research is efficient, resilient, and future-focused. You will work closely with the Chief Executive, board, and senior colleagues to deliver organisational strategy, oversee operations, finance, HR, and systems, and help position the charity for growth and impact.

You will bring people, processes, and data together to maximise effectiveness, empower teams, strengthen cross-department collaboration, and champion innovation—including the use of AI and technology—to help us deliver our mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Shape and deliver organisational strategy, project development, and workforce planning as part of the Senior Leadership Team.
• Act as a key point of contact for the board on operational matters.
• Build alignment between research, fundraising, community engagement, and operations.
• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficient and consistent processes across teams.
• Lead on HR, recruitment, staff wellbeing, safeguarding, health & safety, and cyber security.
• Ensure robust financial management, reporting, and compliance.
• Develop and implement policies, systems, and processes to support organisational resilience.
• Act as Data Protection Officer, ensuring compliance with data protection laws and championing data-driven decision-making.
• Lead change management initiatives and explore AI tools and technologies to enhance efficiency.
• Line-manage staff and partners in operations, finance, HR, and data.
• Promote internal career progression, training, and succession planning.
• Be a visible advocate for Spinal Research’s mission and support new initiatives, partnerships, and fundraising activities.

The Kind of Person We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a strategic, collaborative, and innovative leader who thrives in a mission-driven environment. The ideal candidate will be passionate about making a difference, with a proven ability to drive organisational effectiveness and lead teams through change.

Experience and Skills

• Senior Leadership: Significant experience in a senior operational, strategy, or general management role, ideally within the charity, health, research, or not-for-profit sectors.
• Strategic Thinking: Demonstrated ability to shape and deliver organisational strategy, manage complex projects, and align cross-functional teams.
• Operational Excellence: Strong track record overseeing day-to-day operations, including HR, finance, compliance, and systems development.
• Change Management: Experience leading change initiatives, with the ability to engage and support teams through transitions.
• Data and Technology: Comfortable championing data-driven decision-making and integrating new technologies (such as AI tools and platforms like Salesforce) to enhance organisational performance.
• People Leadership: Skilled at empowering, developing, and line-managing diverse teams and partners, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, able to build relationships with internal and external stakeholders, and act as a credible advocate for the organisation’s mission.
• Values-Driven: Committed to upholding Spinal Research’s values of commitment, integrity, collaboration, and innovation in all aspects of work.

Personal Attributes

• Proactive, resilient, and adaptable, with a growth mindset.
• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Passionate about making a positive impact for people affected by spinal cord injury.

Working Arrangements

• Hybrid role split between home and our London Bridge office.
• Spinal Research is a four-day week employer
• Part of a supportive, values-driven team (commitment, integrity, collaboration, innovation).
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to support organisational priorities.

Ready to help us deliver life-changing impact?
Apply now to join Spinal Research and play a key role in our mission to cure paralysis.

Advocacy and Policy Lead - Latin America and Caribbean region

Permanent. Full time

Location: Bogota, Colombia

Salary: 164,778,543 Colombian Pesos

If we receive a high volume of applications, we reserve the right to close the advert before the scheduled closing date. Therefore, we encourage interested applicants to apply at their earliest convenience. 

Applications and CV to be in English only. 

About us

Christian Aid exists to create a world where everyone can live a full life, free from poverty. We are a global movement of people, churches and local organisations who passionately champion dignity, equality and justice worldwide. We are the changemakers, the peacemakers, the mighty of heart.

We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and recognise the value this brings in forming strong, creative and high performing teams. We welcome applications from all sections of the community, and from those with experience from outside of the voluntary sector. And no, you don’t have to be Christian to work here – we encourage people of all faiths and none to apply. We just ask that everyone lives out our values of dignity, equality, justice and love. We value a good work-life balance, so we’re open to part-time and flexible working. We also offer hybrid working for our office-based colleagues and the option of being a homeworker for most of our roles too. 

About the role

Reporting in to the Head of the Multi-Country Cluster (MCC), the Advocacy & Policy Lead provides strategic leadership and oversight of MCC policy and advocacy strategy, defining influencing priorities, and coordinates with other Advocacy leads to co-design thematic global advocacy strategies, ensuring alignment with organisational values and goals

The post-holder will collaborate with MCC Partnership and Strategy Lead , build a cohort of national and regional partnerships, including faith partnerships that strategically align and maximise impact. Provide technical support to partners for advocacy and connect partners to regional and global spaces to forefront their voices and drive meaningful change.

This is a strategic position within the organisation rather than a communications role, driving the advocacy strategy, integrating advocacy in humanitarian and programmes work, collaborating with other MCC advocacy leads and global advocacy colleagues to co-design thematic global and regional advocacy strategies

Some of the main responsibilities of the Advocacy and Policy Lead include:

• Drive and oversee the MCC advocacy strategy, collaborating with global advocacy colleagues to co-design thematic global advocacy strategies, so that they respond to partner voices and priorities and local contexts, aligning with organisational values and goals.
• Provides strategic oversight for global advocacy in global spaces, to ensure advocacy is impactful, and is in close collaboration with partners and faith groups and rooted in evidence and theological reflection and aligns with organisational values and goals.
• Horizon scan and provide policy and advocacy insight to MCC Leadership and partners, fostering a team mindset and support a culture of knowledge sharing of ideas and insights.
• Collaborate with the MCC Partnership and Strategy Lead, build a cohort of national and regional partnerships, including faith partnerships, to ensure that there is an appropriate balance of partners working on short- and medium-term outcomes and systemic change to align with organisational values and goals.
• Act as a convenor of policy and advocacy spaces by supporting and strengthening national and regional advocacy platforms where partners, policymakers, and civil society actors can collaborate on shared priorities, fostering a mindset of connection.
• Provides technical support for advocacy planning, advocacy proposal development, evidence gathering, relationship building, integrating advocacy into programme design, including in designing multi-country advocacy strategies that are meaningful, streamlined and aligned.
• Act as an ambassador by representing Christian Aid and engage in regional and global spaces jointly with partners, collaborating with the Pan African Advocacy Lead, as relevant, ensuring alignment with organisational values and goals.
• Identify evidence gaps and support partners to commission or produce policy/research/evidence work, connecting with relevant institutions to facilitate highly impactful and meaningful outcomes.
• Maintain up to date analysis of the country and regional context and bring evidence to the UK/global spaces.

About you

Who we are looking for

Essential:

• Degree level qualification in a relevant field.
• Must be fluent in both English and Spanish (written and spoken)
• Substantial experience in supporting national and regional organisations to develop an advocacy strategy, including integrating advocacy into programme work.
• Substantial experience of supporting and accompanying partners to navigate and influence on a global scale.
• Substantial experience of devising, leading and implementing advocacy strategies, preferably in another NGO or faith group.
• Substantial experience of networking, building alliances and coordinating initiatives in networks and faith groups.
• Substantial experience of peer-to-peer learning.
• Substantial experience of policy research and managing research projects.
• Substantial experience of public speaking to a variety of audiences, including the media.
• Substantial experience of budget management.
• Detailed understanding of the current policy debates, trends and analytical frameworks around key development issues.
• Detailed understanding of power and political analysis, and rights-based approaches.
• Detailed understanding of national and regional Civil Society and faith networks - their policy positions and dynamics.
• Understanding of how theology influences policy.
• Detailed understanding of national, regional and continental institutions and processes.
• Highly developed verbal and written communications experience, especially the ability to communicate complex issues simply.
• Significant experience of political analysis and horizon scanning.
• Highly developed coaching and mentoring skills.
• Highly developed ability to work across cultural contexts with Civil Society and faith leaders in different countries.
• Highly developed ability to build lasting relationships with key networks, organisations and advocacy targets.
• Highly developed ability to negotiate with, influence and persuade others in a collaborative manner.

Further information

At Christian Aid we strive to be an inclusive and diverse employer and recognise the value that this brings in helping to build strong, creative and high performing teams.

We are actively encouraging racialised minorities, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, returning parents or carers who are re-entering work after a career break, people with caring responsibilities, people from low socioeconomic backgrounds, women, and older workers to apply. This is because these groups are under-represented within our teams, especially at senior level, and we recognise and value the contributions members of these groups make to strong, creative and high performing teams. 

We have a strong Christian ethos and we encourage applications from all faiths. Applicants will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of and sympathy with Christian Aid’s faith identity. 

All successful candidates will require a DBS/police check appropriate to the role and location and a Counter Terrorism Sanction check as part of your clearance for commencing your role with us. We also participate in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme.  In line with this Scheme, we will request information as part of the referencing process from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures.

This role requires applicants to have the right to live and work in the country where this position is based and undertake the role that you have been offered. If you are successful and we make you an offer for the role, we will be required to conduct a right to work check on your immigration status in the UK. We will contact you regarding the documentation you will need to provide to evidence this. 

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for driving organisational impact? We're looking for an experienced professional to join us as Head of Strategy Implementation (Interim). This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in delivering our current Strategy and Theory of Change, ensuring momentum and alignment across the charity.

This role is fixed term until September 2026, working 29 hours per week. The successful candidate will be required to attend meetings at least once a week as needed in central London and to attend meetings in other locations across the UK with reasonable notice.

Interviews will be held either in person in central London or virtually on Monday 22nd December. We appreciate this is a busy time of year and not all candidates will be able to travel. There may be a second, in person, interview in the New Year as part of the process.

What you'll do:

· Lead the implementation of our Strategy and Theory of Change, embedding cross-departmental collaboration through Thematic Oversight Groups.

· Oversee progress on strategic priorities, on behalf of the Chief Executive.

· Undertake engagement in preparation for a limited review and refresh of the Theory of Change which is due to take place in Q3-Q4 2026-2027.

· Provide senior leadership oversight of our Policy & Public Affairs function and support integrated working across the Strategy & External Affairs Department.

· Prepare reports for the Executive Leadership Team and Board of Trustees.

· Oversee data-led quarterly reporting via a dashboard, driving quality assurance and continual improvement.

What we're looking for:

· A seasoned leader with at least 10 years' professional experience, including 5+ years working in a leadership role at a large organisation, working closely with the Chief Executive.

· At least 5 years' experience working on strategy implementation.

· Expertise in policy/public affairs.

· Experience of matrix programme management.

· Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to influence at all levels.

· Strategic thinker with creativity, adaptability, and a collaborative approach.

Why join us?

This is a chance to make a real difference at a critical time for our charity. You'll work alongside senior leaders, shape strategic priorities, and help prepare for the next phase of our journey.

Our Purpose is Changing Childhoods. Changing Lives. Working with children and young people to be safe, happy, healthy and hopeful.

Apply now and help us deliver lasting impact for the next generation.

At Barnardo's, we are focused on striving for excellence on behalf of children and young people. We also seek to create an environment where everyone can belong, grow, and thrive, and welcome applications from all individuals who meet the criteria.

Head of Strategy and Planning
The Elders
London/Hybrid with regular attendance in the office around two days per week (Green Park/W1K 1BJ)
Permanent
Full-time preferred, 40 hours per week, including one hour for lunch (flexibility for 4 days/week possible)
Salary £64,000 per annum (pro rata for part time)
Excellent benefits including 28 days annual leave (pro rata for part time), plus bank holidays, private pension scheme with 10% employer contributions, enhanced parental leave and optional private medical and dental insurance

Charity People are proud to be partnering with The Elders, an independent group of global leaders working for peace, justice, human rights and a sustainable planet, to recruit a Head of Strategy and Planning.

Founded in 2007 by Nelson Mandela, The Elders operate through private diplomacy and public advocacy; they use their experience, influence and access to heads of state and government to engage politically, and their connections to civil society to stand in solidarity with the most vulnerable people and communities.

There are currently 11 active Elders from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. They work on existential threats to humanity that require a collective response: the climate crisis, pandemics, nuclear weapons, and conflict. Chaired since 2024 by Juan Manuel Santos, former President of Colombia and Nobel Peace Laureate, previous chairs were Desmond Tutu, Kofi Annan, and Mary Robinson. Supporting the Elders' work is a Secretariat of around 25 staff.

The Head of Strategy and Planning coordinates Secretariat support for implementing the current strategy and works with the Director of Programmes (Deputy CEO) to promote efficient cross-team collaboration. The role involves working closely with the Senior Management Team (CEO and three Directors) on operational planning and strategy elements not assigned to specific teams. Developing a new strategy from 2028 will be a major focus from 2027. The post-holder reports to the Director of Programmes, with a dotted line to the CEO for some functions.

Key responsibilities:
* Strategy & Governance: Monitor and report on progress of 2023-2027 strategy and Board decisions, assess external risks and ensure mitigation plans, lead impact assessment and mid-term strategy reviews, and contribute towards shaping future strategy reviews.
* Planning & Operations: Develop and manage annual operational plans and cross-organisational calendars, manage content of Board meeting agendas and decision-making processes, drive lesson-learning and Secretariat-wide initiatives, and work with the CEO on identifying possible new Elders and supporting their induction.
* Programme Support: Assist Director of Programmes with planning, impact reporting, and lesson learning across a team of 11.
* External Relations: Oversee stakeholder engagement and partnership commitments, and support CEO and Directors to build and maintain priority relationships.

The Head of Strategy and Planning will require the following to be successful in the role:
* 8-12 years' background in fields relevant to The Elders' work (e.g. diplomacy, international development, civil society advocacy etc), ideally including at least one of the Elders' programmes or cross-cutting commitments
* Experience working in (or at least on) more than one country (including ideally in the global South)
* Experience contributing to (and ideally coordinating) corporate strategy and operational/business planning in a complex international organisation
* Strong analytical skills, including working with data
* Excellent written English, including experience editing multi-author documents
* A strong personal commitment to the mission and values of The Elders
* A flexible style and willingness to work in a small, collaborative team

The Elders operate a hybrid working policy. On average, you will be in the office a minimum of about two days a week, including for key meetings, including weekly team meetings and monthly all-staff in-days. Flexibility is required and you may at times need to be in the office at short notice. This role may involve limited international travel, the timing of which is usually decided by Elders' commitments. You may be required to attend staff or Elders events in the UK from time to time. Travel costs from home to the office are not covered by The Elders. The office is based close to Green Park tube station in London.

How to apply:

The application process is CV and Supporting Statement which focuses on three areas. For more information, and for the full job pack, please share your CV via the link below. The closing date is 9am on Friday 12 December. Candidates shortlisted to interview will be notified w/c 22 December. First stage interviews will take place w/c 8 January, with a second stage interview held in person w/c 12 January.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

Want to work in a vibrant, dynamic and youth driven organisation that is protecting children’s health by transforming the food system?

Be part of the creative, agile and growing team empowering Bite Back’s exceptional teenage activists. As our Director of Finance and Operations you will make a real difference to our mission to help make the food system healthier and fairer.

As a key member of the Leadership Team, the Director of Finance & Operations provides strategic and operational leadership across finance, people, digital, operations and governance. They ensure the charity is financially sustainable, well-run, compliant and values-driven, so that our resources, systems and culture are aligned with our mission.

They will be accountable for the following areas:

Strategic leadership & organisational development

• Act as a strategic partner to the CEO and Leadership Team, shaping organisational strategy and translating it into robust financial, people and operational plans.

• Lead the annual organisational planning cycle, ensuring objectives, budgets and KPIs are aligned to the strategy and are realistic, affordable and measurable.

• Champion a culture of accountability, inclusion, learning and collaboration across the charity, role-modelling our values in leadership and decision making.

• Provide clear, insight-driven analysis and recommendations to support major strategic decisions (e.g. growth, new programmes, partnerships, investments, cost management).

• Lead and develop the Finance & Operations team (Finance, Fundraising, HR, IT/systems, operations) building a high-performing, service-oriented function that supports colleagues to deliver impact.

Financial strategy, planning & stewardship

• Develop and keep under review the charity’s financial strategy, ensuring long-term sustainability, appropriate reserves and effective use of resources.

• Lead and coordinate the annual budget and medium-term financial planning process, working closely with budget holders to create robust, activity-based budgets.

• With the support of the Senior Finance Manager, provide timely, accurate and insightful financial reporting to the CEO, Leadership Team and Board, including management accounts, restricted funds reporting, cashflow and forecasts.

• Maintain robust financial controls, policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, accounting standards and Charity Commission / Companies House requirements.

• Lead the relationship with external auditors and oversee the annual audit process, ensuring high-quality statutory accounts and a culture of continuous improvement in financial controls.

• Oversee financial aspects of funding bids, contracts and grant reporting, including costing models, financial due diligence and project / restricted fund monitoring.

People, culture & HR

• Champion Bite Back’s values - Fresh, Resilient, Respectful, Energetic, and Real - in all your work.

• Provide strategic oversight of HR, working closely with the HR & People Manager on people strategy, workforce planning, recruitment, employee relations and HR operations.

• Champion a positive, inclusive and psychologically safe workplace culture. Lead on embedding diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) across the organisation, shaping recruitment, policies, culture and practices so that staff from all backgrounds feel welcomed, represented, supported and able to flourish.

• Lead the organisation-wide objective-setting and performance management framework, ensuring clear expectations, regular feedback and fair, constructive review processes.

• Oversee learning and development approaches so that staff and managers have the skills, tools and support to perform at their best and develop their careers.

• Ensure all people-related policies and procedures (including safeguarding where appropriate), are up-to-date, legally compliant, values-aligned and consistently implemented.

• Oversee pensions, insurance, payroll and benefits ensuring these are well-managed, compliant and provide value for money.

Digital, data, IT & systems

• Work alongside the Digicomms team to support the organisation’s digital and technology strategy, ensuring systems and tools are fit for purpose and future-focused.

• Ensure the charity’s CRM (Salesforce) is effectively governed, embedded and used across the organisation, with clear ownership, training and data standards.

• Oversee data protection and information security, ensuring GDPR compliance, robust data governance and adherence to frameworks such as Cyber Essentials where relevant.

• Manage relationships with IT and systems suppliers, ensuring contracts are well-specified, performance is monitored and services deliver value for money.

• Lead the design and continuous improvement of cross-organisational systems and processes to reduce duplication, improve user experience and increase efficiency.

Operations, facilities & supplier management

• Oversee the effective management of the charity’s co-working space in Fivefields and any hybrid / remote working arrangements, ensuring they are safe, inclusive and support collaborative working.

• Plan for future workspace needs in line with organisational growth, culture and budget.

• Lead procurement and supplier management, together with the Operations & Contracts Manager, for key operational services, ensuring contracts are well-managed and aligned with our ethical, environmental and sustainability commitments.

• Ensure robust health and safety arrangements are in place and implemented across all activities, including appropriate policies, risk assessments and training.

• Oversee business continuity planning and disaster recovery arrangements so that critical operations can continue in the event of disruption.

Governance, risk & compliance

• Act as Company Secretary and secretary to the Board, ensuring effective governance processes and high-quality information flows between the executive and trustees.

• Ensure timely and accurate compliance with Charity Commission, Companies House and any other regulatory or funder requirements, including statutory filings and returns.

• Lead the development, maintenance and regular review of the organisational risk register, ensuring an appropriate appetite for risk and clear mitigation actions.

• Provide assurance to the Board and its committees on the effectiveness of internal controls and compliance frameworks across finance, HR, data protection, health & safety and other key areas.

• Coordinate the review, approval, communication and implementation of organisational policies, ensuring staff are inducted, trained and clear on their responsibilities.

• Support the Chair and CEO in planning Board and committee agendas, ensuring trustees are well-supported to discharge their duties and have appropriate information to make decisions.

We are recruiting three Funding Strategy Development Managers, two Permanent roles and one Fixed-term for 12 months. Please state clearly in your supporting statement if you wish to be considered for the Fixed Term or Permanent role

This is an exciting opportunity to join the National Lottery Community Fund’s, Funding Strategy, Innovation and UK Directorate at a key moment in the delivery of our strategy. If you are up for playing a central role in a new team, which will be vital in enabling the Fund to deliver for communities in the years ahead, then this role could be for you.

We are approaching the midpoint of implementation of our strategy “It starts with community”. Over the last few years our funding portfolios in each of the nations of the UK and corporate functions have worked hard to embed the strategic ambitions we set ourselves. We are looking to take stock of our progress, understand how a changing world may impact our work and explore how we can grow our ambition to address the issues that will impact communities over the years ahead. Building on what we have achieved so far, we want to make greater progress including:

• Ensuring the fund has a thorough and live understanding of its collective response to the strategy, where our successes are and where there are opportunities to go further.
• Supporting our senior management team to come together to understand and explore our progress and shape the strategic direction for the organisation together
• Supporting greater engagement and collaboration between funding portfolios to enable sharing and learning, to build a better collective understanding of our missions and commitments and grow our impact
• ​Delivering ambitious and impactful projects to address common opportunities and challenges, for example to support the embedding of partnership working across the Fund, or to respond to the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies.
• Supporting ongoing strategy development, including horizon scanning to maintain a collective picture of key developments related to our missions, cross cutting commitments and wider factors impacting communities.

Your day will be a blend of strategic thinking, stakeholder engagement, and practical execution, with plenty of opportunities to collaborate, influence, and drive change across the Fund. You will be one of two permanent managers in a small new team led by the Head of Strategy Development.

As this is a new team roles and responsibilities will be defined as the Team comes together. However, responsibilities may include:

• Drafting Senior Management Team (SMT) and Board reports on strategy implementation to update on progress and promote discussions on areas for development.
• Monitoring of funding portfolio strategy development and delivery activity, including maintaining regular engagement with portfolio representatives.
• Reviewing progress reports, identifying risks and issues and shaping recommendations to meet challenges and opportunities to go further in meeting strategic ambitions.
• Working closely with the Fund’s Governance Team to ensure the appropriate use of governance fora to provide oversight of strategy implementation and development work and maintaining an effective forward look of key priorities.
• Leading on engagement with key corporate functions, such as analytical, communications, legal and Human Resources, to support alignment with strategic ambitions.
• Engaging with funding teams across the Fund to support strong alignment between strategic ambition and operational realities.
• Leading discreet projects to explore emerging shared opportunities and challenges, undertaking desk research, engaging internal and external stakeholders and shaping proposals.
• Identifying opportunities for further alignment, internal partnerships and new ways of working.

Interview Details:

• Interview Date: TBC - 22 and 23 of January
• Format: Virtual
• Location: UK-Wide

Location: We have a hybrid approach to working, work pattern and location will be agreed with the successful candidate. The role can be based at any of our UK offices, these are Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Exeter, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Newcastle and Newtown.

Briefing session: We will be hosting a briefing session to further outline the role and answer questions on the following date: 15 December 2025, 3:15- 4:00pm. To register or ask any questions about the recruitment process, please contact the recruitment team.

​How to apply:

Upload your CV in word format and write a supporting statement (1000 words) with the following criteria, we will use this to score your application.

Essential criteria:

• Experience of working with civil society, either working in a civil society organisation or in a supporting function (e.g. in a funding, consultancy or policy making body) with a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
• Experience of managing competing priorities to ensure successful delivery of key pieces of work.
• Strong collaboration skills, able to work with a range of people at different levels within an organisation to shape plans and projects that reflect the interests of the organisation.
• Strong external engagement skills, able to proactively identify a range of relevant stakeholders, build and maintain relationships, and draw on knowledge and expertise to inform proposals and projects.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to draw on data and qualitative evidence to understand complex topics and shape evidence led proposals. 
• Strong communication skills, able to present complex topics clearly using a range of communication tools, in particular, able to write clear and succinct formal papers for senior leaders. 
• Strong project management skills, able to use a range of tools to set out clear and timely delivery plans, identifying appropriate milestones, risks and issues.

Desirable criteria:

• Experience of working in a policy or strategy team, helping to set direction for an organisation or major programme of work

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion 

Communities in the UK come in all shapes and sizes. National Lottery funding is for everyone – therefore, we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and we work hard to ensure our funding reaches where it is needed.  

We also believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. That’s why The National Lottery Community Fund is committed to being an inclusive employer and a great place to work. We recognise and celebrate the fact that our people come from diverse backgrounds. We positively welcome applications from people from ethnic minority backgrounds, people with disabilities or longstanding health conditions, people who are LGBTQ+, and people from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds, as well as people of all ages. 

As a Disability Confident Employer, we take a proactive approach in making reasonable adjustments, if needed, throughout the recruitment process and during employment. (This can be related to a physical and mental health condition).

Salary: £46,104 – £51,176
Location: Remote with regular travel to Downton and London
Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Legacy & In Memory Manager to join our Commercial Directorate at Help for Heroes. This pivotal role will shape and maximise one of our most important income streams, ensuring we can continue delivering life-changing support for the Armed Forces community.

Legacy and In Memory income contributes over half of all fundraised income, making this a strategically significant role with the opportunity to drive meaningful and lasting impact. If you are an experienced, collaborative and strategic leader with expertise in legacy fundraising, legacy administration and/or in memory giving, this could be your perfect next step.

About the Role

Reporting to the Head of Mass Fundraising, you will lead the development, delivery and continuous improvement of our Gifts in Wills and In Memory programmes. You’ll shape strategies that drive sustainable income growth, ensure operational excellence, and deliver exceptional stewardship for supporters, families and executors.

You will oversee all aspects of legacy marketing, legacy administration and in-memory giving, ensuring compliance, accuracy and sensitivity in this specialist area. You will also provide clear reporting and forecasting to track performance and identify future income opportunities. Working collaboratively across the charity, you’ll embed best practice, enhance supporter journeys and maximise long-term income opportunities.

As a senior leader, you will guide and develop a skilled team of five, championing a culture of collaboration, learning and data-led decision-making.

About You

You’ll be a strategic, compassionate and resourceful leader with a strong background in legacy fundraising, legacy administration and/or in memory giving. You’ll bring both technical expertise and emotional intelligence — able to oversee sensitive stewardship activity, manage complex matters confidently and influence stakeholders at all levels.

We’re looking for someone with:

• Significant experience in legacy fundraising, legacy administration and/or in memory giving
• Strong understanding of legacy marketing, supporter journeys and charity-side legacy processes
• Demonstrable team management or leadership experience
• Experience overseeing sensitive, high-quality stewardship to supporters and families
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Strong analytical and data-led decision-making capability
• Confidence in managing budgets, forecasting income and reporting on performance
• A values-driven, empathetic approach and commitment to delivering excellence

Due to the specialist nature of this role, we can only consider applicants with relevant experience in legacy fundraising, legacy administration or in memory giving, as well as demonstrable leadership or team management experience.

About the Team

Our Mass Fundraising team sits within the Commercial Directorate and is responsible for building strong, trusted relationships with supporters across the UK. Legacy & In Memory giving is a cornerstone of this work, enabling us to deliver our LiveWell Strategy and ensure every member of the Armed Forces Community can live well after service.

You’ll join a passionate, expert and purpose-driven team who champion innovation, empathy and excellence in everything they do.

In return we can offer you:

• Belonging to a team who make a difference to our community and value equality, diversity and inclusion.
• 29 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, regardless of service — plus your birthday off to celebrate!
• Opportunity to buy and sell up to 5 days annual leave per year.
• Added to our free health scheme from day one, including discounts on dental, opticians, massages, and more - with the option to upgrade.
• 3 volunteer days per year to support the Help for Heroes community.
• A generous salary sacrifice pension scheme with an 8% employer contribution and a minimum 3% employee contribution, plus life insurance up to 4× salary as an active member.
• Discounts on our branded clothing, including a free Help for Heroes hoody when you complete your induction.

Closing date: 9th January 2026

Please note: We may close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of strong applications.