Team leader jobs in east of england

Job Description

Citizens UK 

Citizens UK is the UK’s biggest, most diverse and most effective people-powered alliance. We bring communities and local organisations together to work on issues that matter; from campaigning for zebra crossings on dangerous roads, to reforming the immigration system, to the Living Wage campaign. We have a track record of winning change through hundreds of local and national campaigns. We know everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. We believe that through developing local leaders, we can drive nationwide change and create community-led solutions to big and small problems.

Citizens Essex is a relatively-young Chapter of Citizens UK, covering 3 main geographical areas: Colchester, Chelmsford, and Southend. Our ideal candidate for the position of Senior Organiser has high emotional intelligence, is curious about other people, politically astute, and is fundamentally relational. They will have a track record of making things happen, be able to work with a high degree of independence, are comfortable with uncertainty, and able to think strategically as well as operationally.  They will be interested in understanding and working with different sectors and types of organisations, as well as engaging with people from a wide range of faiths and cultures which are different to their own. They are an excellent communicator. They will learn and teach the craft of broad-based organising and be interested in receiving feedback to support their own development and growth. They will build and maintain relationships with a large number of leaders across the County and coach them to take action together on a common agenda. 

Community Organising

Through our theory of social change, called community organising, we train thousands of everyday people to lead change in their communities, equipping them with the skills to hold politicians and other powerholders to account. We are made up of 500+ member organisations in powerful alliances throughout the UK. Our members include schools, universities, faith groups, parents’ groups, health practices, charities, trade unions and other civil society organisations. 

Purpose 

At Citizens UK, our organisers and project staff work within communities to develop leaders, strengthen organisations, campaign for change and organise across difference. There are various project roles and operational, communication, finance and HR roles that support the organisation and project staff and organisers to deliver on this mission and work. This work is rewarding and can be challenging; it requires a personal commitment to inclusion, a willingness to listen and disagree respectfully, and an interest in working in an organisation where our staff, member institutions and leaders will come from a diversity of backgrounds and often hold views that may be very different from our own. More information about how we operate within this context and build trusted relationships across difference can be found on our website and is covered in induction. Onboarding and navigating this relational culture, and type of work, is supported by line managers and further training. 

Main Responsibilities 

A Senior Organiser is mastering the craft of community organising and taking increasing responsibility for developing major campaigns, managing budgets and managing staff. They operate with a high degree of independence and are significant contributors to CUK-wide functions such as training.  Senior Organisers model the broad-based community organising methodology in their work including the building of relational power, the recruitment and retention of dues-paying institutions, the development of leaders, the strengthening of member institutions, leader-led public actions, and the winning of systemic change. 

You will bring communities together to drive change both locally, regionally, and nationally. This role will work closely with local civic institutions, such as churches, mosques, schools, universities, unions and other community groups to: 

• develop the leadership of people within those organisations - our 'leaders' who lead the campaigns we work on 

• help them identify the changes they want to see and create strategies to win those changes 

• strengthen institutions’ own abilities to achieve their missions. 

This includes listening to members of the community to find common issues, engaging local decision-makers through meetings, and planning in-person ‘actions’, where you might hold those in power to account. All of this work is underpinned by the knowledge that everyday people have the ability to shape the world around them. This work will be rooted locally, but you will be a part of a bigger national drive to make change alongside diverse local alliances across the UK. In Essex, the work is currently focusing on the first Mayoral Election for the County but you will also work on other campaign priorities that are developed through the institutions you work with. 

Working as a Senior Organiser for Citizens UK, reporting to Regional Supervisor for the South of England, your main responsibilities will include: 

Build relational power to further the goals of CUK 

• Develop a comprehensive power analysis for Essex, particularly as the County will elect its first Mayor in May 2026  

• Develop and grow strong working relationships with power players at a county-wide level or sector, including journalists; taking the initiative to establish new relationships as required 

• Conduct one-to-one relational meetings in order to develop relationships with leaders; demonstrating timely and effective agitation to stimulate action 

• Work effectively with local journalists and media outlets to further CUK’s goals 

• Develop a strategic plan to enhance people’s participation in public life as well as enhance non-partisan political and democratic practices across Essex. 

• Develop a strategy built on an acute sense of how communities and institutions behave within, and across, the cultures and contexts of Essex.  

• Develop a plan that enables clear and impactful cross-institutional collaboration across Essex. 

Identify and develop relational leaders prepared to act with others for the common good 

• Work with and learn from the best veteran leaders on key actions  

• Play a central role in the development of primary leaders; creating plans with them that are carried out 

• Nominate leaders for training on the core taster curriculum and for National Training 

Strengthen institutions and develop BBOs 

• Organise diverse alliances to work together locally but, most importantly, at chapter level 

• Create/develop a leadership team of representatives from several institutions at chapter and local that are successful in combining action with growth  

• Design organising strategies that combine internal & external action 

Support leaders through the Cycle of Action to create change 

• Take the staff lead on chapter-wide actions and campaigns; aiming to achieve significant wins at chapter/campaign level 

• Facilitate Issues Workshops and Delegates Assemblies and, in March 2026, a Mayoral Accountability Assembly 

• Develop strategies for significant impact; with comprehensive plans & tactics  

• Support actions, ensuring publicity, and facilitating high level negotiations  

• Evaluate the effectiveness of actions; demonstrating ability to incorporate lessons learned into future actions 

Contribute to CUK’s financial viability through effective fundraising & financial management  

• Recruit new dues paying institutions; negotiating annual membership dues and letters of understanding as required 

• Recruit and work with large organisations; ensuring that they invest into the alliance and not solely internal delivery  

• Contribute to fundraising by securing £75k-£90k per annum overall, at least half of which should be ‘hard money’ from retention and recruitment of member institutions and strategic partners. 

Contribute to effective teamwork 

• Line manage other Organisers in Essex 

• Attract and help recruit new Organisers 

• Lead other Organisers or Associates in a manner that supports high performance by providing clear expectations and providing proactive coaching, support and accountability.  

• Teach entire training curriculum on National Training successfully; acting as a ‘Track Captain’ by providing meaningful feedback and support to other trainers 

• Deliver sessions at Guild Days 

• Produce all required reports and follow CUK’s procedures on time and to the required standards 

Contribute to the Craft of Community Organising 

• Schedule an average of at least 3 to 4 1-2-1 relational meetings into your daily schedule as a core part of your professional practice 

• Commit 10 working days pa (pro rata for part-time staff) to the preparation, delivery and evaluation of Citizens UK National Community Leadership Training; 

• Contribute to the leadership of a Guild Team and help it develop as a Community of Practice that enables Organisers across the UK to develop their skills and experience. 

Inclusion  

• Displays self-awareness of DEI issues and good practice.  

• Is alert to the impact on chapters and team members. 

• Lead, support collaboration and acts within their area of responsibility and influence.  

• Support in the resourcing, evaluation, and reporting of DEI work, as relevant 

Build relational power to further the goals of CUK 

• Develop a comprehensive power analysis for Essex, particularly as the County will elect its first Mayor in May 2026  

• Develop and grow strong working relationships with power players at a county-wide level or sector, including journalists; taking the initiative to establish new relationships as required 

• Conduct one-to-one relational meetings in order to develop relationships with leaders; demonstrating timely and effective agitation to stimulate action 

• Work effectively with local journalists and media outlets to further CUK’s goals 

• Develop a strategic plan to enhance people’s participation in public life as well as enhance non-partisan political and democratic practices across Essex. 

• Develop a strategy built on an acute sense of how communities and institutions behave within, and across, the cultures and contexts of Essex.  

• Develop a plan that enables clear and impactful cross-institutional collaboration across Essex. 

Personal Specification 

(D) Desirable, (E) Essential 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in any subject or equivalent (D) 

• Evidence of further and continuing study including a possible professional qualification (D) 

Experience 

• At least three-years employment track record of successful Organising (D) 

• Demonstrated ability to lead a team; including motivating and developing more junior staff (E) 

• Experience of risk taking to create a project/situation/event that illustrates your values (E) 

• Experience of successful fundraising (E) 

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects on time and to standard (E) 

• Clear evidence of campaigns won and people developed (E) 

Key skills and knowledge 

• Ability to build and maintain relationships (E) 

• Ability to inspire, motivate and lead (particularly people who are different than you) (E) 

• Ability to organise yourself and others and to work responsibly in an unstructured environment (E) 

• Financial management skills including ability to set and manage a budget (E)  

• Ability to use imaginative strategies to help improve disadvantaged communities (E) 

• Ability to plan and organise under pressure (E) 

• Ability to work with and relate to all types of people (E) 

• Ability to teach and run workshops (E) 

• Ability to develop the potential of others (E) 

• Ability to communicate well verbally and in writing (E) 

Personal qualities & values 

• A passion for justice (E) 

• A good sense of humour (E) 

• A positive enthusiasm for working with faith congregations, trade unions, schools and other community organisations (E) 

• Good judge of character (E) 

• High levels of emotional intelligence (E) 

• An interest in and experience of politics and public life (E) 

• Able to work in a team (E) 

• Willingness to work within accountable relationships (E) 

• Self-motivated and adaptable (E) 

Our Organisers and some project teams work closely with our member institutions and will be expected to attend member events that take place in the evenings and occasional weekends. We operate a Time Off in Lieu approach and have very flexible working arrangements to ensure a good work-life balance. 

Please note that the role is Essex-wide and, as such, there is a practical expectation that the successful candidate will be able to drive between key locations across the county (with associated mileage costs being covered by Citizens UK).  

The successful applicant will be required to undertake a satisfactory Enhanced DBS check. DBS checks are renewed on a 3-year cycle. 

About the application process 

We work within diverse communities bringing people together. In line with our Inclusion value, we would love to see applications from LGBTQIA+ people, people from racialised communities, people living with disabilities and people of faith, all to better represent the communities we work in. We want our employees to have the working conditions that allows them to fully participate, be able to be their best authentic selves and thrive doing so, and we have employee networks to support staff. Even if you don’t quite meet all the required criteria still consider applying, as we invest in our employees and support them to develop the skills and knowledge required to deliver their role.

For questions and reasonable adjustments regarding your application including information in a different format, or our recruitment process, please email us.

Interview date: week commencing 3rd November

At Ambitious about Autism we're currently looking for a Data and Insights Officer to join our National Services team.

You'll focus on the collection, analysis and reporting of data from National Services programmes, projects and services. You'll use systems and tools to effectively capture and store data and information, enabling effective reporting and insight. You'll provide advice and support to the Product Development Manager and Deputy Director of National Services.

You'll support National Services teams with the development of KPI and data collection  routes and support with maintenance, troubleshooting and creative problem solving to ensure accuracy and efficiency. You'll create detailed reports and dashboards for use by teams, managers and leaders at agreed time points.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Experience of using statistical tools and techniques to manage and analyse data
• Ability to translate the essence of complex data into language or formats others will understand
• Experience of producing qualitative and quantitative reports and analysing results to produce impact reporting
• Ability to present insights and results through written reports, dashboards and presenting face-to-face

In return, we offer great benefits including a generous holiday allowance and commitment to continued professional development (CPD), flexible, hybrid working and more!

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious individual who would like to work for a forward-thinking, open and honest organisation and make a real impact to the young people we work with. Please find our full recruitment pack on the link below.

If you have any questions about the role or would like to have a confidential chat, please contact James Axford, Recruitment Officer.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.

Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.

Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.

Role purpose

RISE strives for a world where people can lead safe, purposeful lives as a result of better relationships within families and communities; where harmful behaviour is marginalised and fewer people are victims of crime. In order to create safe communities, RISE empowers people to break their cycle of harmful behaviour. RISE’s programmes challenge attitudes and facilitate long-lasting behaviour change and are driven by the belief that people can make better decisions, given the right support. RISE are specialists in designing and delivering evidence-based, transformative behaviour change courses within the criminal justice system and wider community.

With the main objectives of reducing re-victimisation and reoffending, and helping to protect the public, the RISE practitioner will deliver a range intervention (individual and group), both in the community and in custody.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide a high-quality service to victims of domestic abuse, delivering a service to those at risk;
• Work collaboratively within a multi - agency framework consisting of the Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC) and local partnership responses to domestic abuse;
• Identify and assess the risks and needs of domestic abuse victims using an evidence-based risk identification checklist.
• Focus on and prioritise high risk cases and provide a pro-active service through individual safety planning and personal support. 
• Work with victims of domestic abuse at all levels of risk to help them access services to keep them and their children safe.
• Liaise with Social Services and other professional agencies in relation to any child protection/ adult safeguarding risk issues highlighted;
• To ensure that any issues in relation to safeguarding children or vulnerable adults are brought to the immediate attention of the Safeguarding lead (or whoever is relevant).
• Maintain high standards of professionalism and keep abreast of current legislation, best practice and maintain a focus of continuous improvement;
• Work with victims of domestic abuse to help them access services to keep them and their children safe;
• Understand the role of all relevant statutory and non-statutory services available to domestic abuse victims, and work collaboratively with these as appropriate;
• Provide advocacy, emotional and practical support, and information to victims in relation to legal options, housing, health and finance;
• To record case work accurately and ensure administration of caseload is always up to date.
• To communicate internally within RISE, with victims and with partner agencies about the risks and needs of victims.
• To attend regular case review meetings with the DA Team Leader and Practitioners to share information around the identified risks.
• Manage a caseload of 60-70 service users ensuring each client receives a timely and appropriate service, individual to their needs;
• Support the empowerment of the client, and assist them in recognising the features and dynamics of domestic abuse, and help them regain control of their lives;
• Maintain knowledge of the organisation’s operating environment;
• Demonstrate and maintain a commitment to the organisation’s vision and values, strategic aims and objectives.
• To attend and participate in any and all internal and external training identified as necessary to meet the requirements of the role as identified by Rise Mutual CIC.

Main Duties:

• Establish timely contact with Victim/ Survivors of domestic abuse perpetrators who are referred to attend a DVPP,
• Carry out assessments with the Victim/ Survivors via telephone contact or community visit, using the Safe Lives DASH risk assessment tool;
• Carry out detailed safety planning with Victim/ Survivors;
• Manage risk by being pro-active with Victim/ Survivors, sharing information with other relevant agencies in a timely way.
• Refer and/or signpost Victim/ Survivors to other services/agencies to meet risk/wellbeing needs;
• Ensure Victim/ Survivors can access a place of safety e.g. refuge, if risk escalates to a dangerous/unsafe level;
• Maintain Victim/ Survivors contact and continuously monitor risk by keeping up with all available information while the perpetrator attends the programme;
• Attendance at Social Services Conferences (if appropriate), Risk Meetings and MARAC, advising on any safety planning for any risk issues highlighted;
• Undertake an end of case review, signposting Victim/ Survivors to external agencies for ongoing support where appropriate;
• To maintain up to date Victim/ Survivors records to ensure data is collated for all work completed.
• To offer 100% of Victim/ Survivors to complete service user feedback;

Confidentiality and Information Security

• To adhere to the Data Protection and Freedom of Information Acts and comply with the terms of RISE’s Privacy, IT and Data protection policies, and that of our partners where relevant
• To comply with security measures in accordance with RISE policies and our partner’s E-mail and Internet use.

Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults

• RISE is committed to keeping children and vulnerable adults safe. Post holders with direct service user contact are responsible for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults s/he is responsible for or comes into contact with. Post holders without direct service user contact have a general responsibility for safeguarding children and vulnerable adults in the course of their daily duties and for ensuring that they are aware of the specific duties relating to their role.

Other duties:

• Undertake other duties as may be required which are commensurate with the grade and nature of the post.
• Cover for other posts as appropriate, and willingness to be trained in new interventions.

Person specification:

Experience

• Have experience of giving or undertaking advice, advocacy, counselling or casework within a domestic abuse setting;
• Have experience using an evidence based risk identification check list as a tool to aid risk identification and management for Victim/ Survivors of domestic abuse, as well as an understanding of the limitations of such tools.
• Have experience of working with people who have had to deal with difficult emotional incidents or events using a trauma informed approach;
• Possess good organisational skills with the ability to work methodically and accurately whilst meeting deadlines;
• Have experience of liaising with a range of professionals and agencies;
• Have experience of timely preparation of reports on behalf of users; preparing reports and submissions to statutory or professional bodies;
• Experience of case management and record keeping;
• Experience of delivering programmes/training and/or the willingness to be trained;

Skills​

• To work on own initiative and as part of a team without close supervision;
• To maintain professionalism when dealing with cases, which may be stressful and demanding;
• To work effectively under pressure including prioritising workload and meeting deadlines;
• To demonstrate empathy for the issues and barriers, faced by Victim/ Survivors and their families;
• To respond positively to change;
• To communicate with vulnerable clients;
• To communicate with external organisation professionals;
• To have excellent written communication skills to write reports;
• Proven communication and Interpersonal skills (both verbal and written).

Knowledge

• Proficiency in the use of case management databases to accurately record Victim/ Survivors information;
• Proficiency in MS Office skills (MS Word, Excel) to intermediate level and experience of using such skills in a busy office environment;
• Have an IDVA qualification or equivalent (Desirable).

Use your housing expertise to support the growth and excellence of a fast-growing and highly respected youth charity. 

We are seeking an exceptional housing leader who brings experience of supporting organisational growth and excellence in social housing.

One YMCA is now one of the largest YMCA’s in Europe and our focus is supporting vulnerable people in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire to develop the skills and confidence to live their life to the full.

In the last five years, we have trebled our income to £40m, more than doubled our staff numbers to 750 and increased our social housing units from 350 to nearly 800.

This is a new role that we have created to provide leadership to our supported housing (including YP OFSTED regulated housing) services. As our lead professional for housing and member of the Extended Executive Leadership Team, this role will be responsible for developing a housing vision and strategy aligned to the wider organisational strategy. This will ensure quality across all our housing sites and the overall scope of service delivery aligns and exceeds the expectations of our internal and external stakeholders.

With planned growth to 1000 units in the next two years plus preparing to be a Large Registered Provider this role will ensure processes, structures, systems and resourcing meet regulatory requirements and are consistently and innovatively delivering best value, sustainability and positive impact.

If you enjoy working in a dynamic organisation and are attracted to the challenge of working with highly committed staff, serving people with complex needs and in a context of organisational growth, we would love to hear from you.  

For more information please see the job pack attached. Closing date 13th October. 

We’re Hiring: Chief Executive Officer

Salary: £75,000 – £80,000 + pension
Location: Northamptonshire (flexible, with min. 3 days on-site)
Closing date: 5pm, Friday 3rd October 2025

Age UK Northamptonshire is looking for a dynamic Chief Executive Officer to lead us into our next chapter.

We are the leading local charity supporting older people across the county—providing advice, companionship, and essential services to 18,000+ people every year.

As our long-serving CEO retires, we need an inspiring, strategic leader who can:
✅ Champion older people as a trusted advocate and spokesperson
✅ Lead a dedicated team of 140+ staff and 260+ volunteers
✅ Strengthen partnerships and income streams to ensure sustainability
✅ Build on our proud history while driving innovation and growth

About You

You’ll bring:

• Proven senior leadership experience in a complex organisation
• Strong financial and strategic planning skills
• Excellent communication and influencing abilities
• Integrity, energy, and resilience to lead by example

Knowledge of the voluntary sector, health, social care, or issues affecting older people is highly desirable.

Interviews take place in October. If you have any questions then please use the above email. 

�� Be the voice for older people in Northamptonshire. Lead us into the future.

Advocacy Coordinator

Location: London (Hybrid - at least 2 days per week in the office)

Would you like to use your understanding of politics and political advocacy, and your relationship-building skills, to tackle injustice? Can you bring people together to work for change? We are seeking to recruit an Advocacy Coordinator to develop and coordinate the delivery of influencing strategies around the identified public policy priorities of the Methodist Church and the Joint Public Issues Team. In recent years these have includes issues around poverty, refugees and migration, the environment, the economy, peace and conflict, and politics.

About you

You’ll need to bring experience of coordinating campaigns or political advocacy initiatives and an understanding of different methods of working for policy change. You’ll need a good understanding of UK politics and of the context for public policy development, and to be a great communicator. You should be sympathetic to the mission of the Methodist Church, and share our commitment to seeking justice and to issues of equality, diversity and inclusion.

You would be working as part of the ecumenical Joint Public Issues Team, which brings together the Baptist, Methodist and United Reformed Churches, plus associate partners, to work together for peace and justice. It does this through listening, learning, praying, speaking and acting on public policy issues. The work is varied and often demanding, but it is a supportive, friendly, and highly collaborative team, where people contribute different skills and gifts to our shared purpose.

Our Culture, Values and Benefits

Thank you for considering joining our inclusive and welcoming team that strives for excellence and values employee wellbeing (We have recently been awarded the Investors in People Silver status)

We value and support all those who join our team through a positive work-life balance augmented by generous annual leave (plus an extra 3 days over Christmas/New Year), TOIL, flexi-leave and an on-site Wellbeing Adviser service. We offer a generous occupational pension scheme, where the Methodist Church will pay double the employee contribution up to a maximum of 16% employer contribution.

The Methodist Church is an inclusive and supportive employer. We are actively committed to encouraging applications from people of all backgrounds. We welcome applications from people of Black, Asian and other Minority Ethnic groups. 

Closing Date: Sunday, 28 September 2025
Interviews: Tuesday, 14 October 2025 at Methodist Church House, London.

Are you an innovative Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM professional who wishes to be a valued member of a busy and friendly fundraising team, taking responsibility for the management of the charity’s future Dynamics 365 CRM?

The charity is currently in the discovery phase of its CRM project, to deliver its future Dynamics 365 CRM. The new Dynamics 365 CRM will be at the heart of the charity’s success, to deliver excellent supporter data quality for its fundraising and communication campaigns to supporters.

Reporting to the Director of Fundraising, and collaborating closely with the Head of IT, CRM Project Manager and Data Analyst, the CRM Manager shall be a vital and visible role, fundamental to the charity’s fundraising success, to further its vision of a world where every horse is treated with respect, compassion and understanding.

Through your proven Dynamics 365 CRM skills and experience, you will also lead on the charity’s CRM business processes and data quality, collaborating with fundraising, communications, IT and finance stakeholders, colleagues and third-party suppliers.

If you want to make real and positive difference to a leading charity’s fundraising and campaigns success, through your professional Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM management skills and experience, then we’d love you to apply.

This position is based remotely. But you must be a resident of the United Kingdom with all the necessary legislative ‘right to work’ documentation. You will be required to attend the charity’s head office located in Norfolk a minimum of 6 times per year and this will be at your own expense for travel and accommodation.

Benefits include a generous pension scheme and cash health plan, paid employee sickness absence scheme, a minimum of 31 days’ holiday (including bank/public holidays and mandatory shutdown between Christmas and New Year) and death in service.

World Horse Welfare is committed to championing equality and diversity in all aspects of employment and in the services that it provides. We encourage applications from under-represented groups, particularly ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQ+ and disabled people.

National Rural Touring Forum (NRTF) is looking for a new Director to lead our national network and champion rural arts across the UK. We’re seeking an inspiring leader with a collaborative approach to advocate for our members and sector, to strengthen partnerships and support a vibrant network that ensures creativity and culture thrive in every community.

About NRTF

NRTF is an Investment Principles Support Organisation (IPSO) within Arts Council England’s (ACE) National Portfolio. As a national membership and strategic organisation, we unite and champion the diverse parts of the rural touring sector. We advocate on behalf of our members, offering up-to-date information, advice, guidance, professional development and networking opportunities. By sharing news, stories and opportunities, supporting rural touring-focused projects and initiatives, and through our Annual National Rural Touring Conference, we raise the profile of rural touring, embedding its value in the wider cultural landscape. We celebrate the work and achievements of the volunteer promoters, professional artists and organisations who make culture accessible for rural communities. This is an exciting moment to join NRTF as we enter our third decade as an organisation and continue building the profile and impact of rural touring across the UK, while supporting the passionate and committed members at the heart of our network.

Main Purpose of the Role

The Director is the strategic and operational lead of NRTF, responsible for the organisation’s vision, management, performance, and long-term sustainability. They ensure delivery against NRTF’s mission and business plan, champion rural touring at a national level, and act as the primary liaison with Arts Council England, stakeholders, and the wider sector. Working closely with a proactive Board of Trustees, the Director provides leadership on governance and compliance in line with UK Charity Law and NRTF’s Articles of Association, ensuring the organisation operates with transparency, accountability and good practice. The Director is a visible ambassador for rural touring, building strong relationships across the cultural sector, advocating for members, and promoting the role of rural touring in ensuring that creativity and culture thrive in every community.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

● Lead and implement NRTF’s Business Plan and strategic objectives.

● Oversee the delivery and evaluation of all funded programmes and initiatives.

● Develop and sustain relationships with our members, including the rural touring schemes, national and regional stakeholders, funders, and policy-makers.

● Ensure alignment with ACE’s Investment Principles and “Let’s Create” strategy.

● Ensure long-term sustainability through innovation, partnerships, and appropriate diversification, ensuring the organisation remains relevant and forward-thinking.

Finance and Fundraising

● Lead financial planning, budgeting, and reporting in collaboration with the Finance Officer and Treasurer.

● Ensure ACE and funder reporting is accurate and timely.

● Lead on developing new funding opportunities, working with colleagues and freelance support to secure income from trusts, foundations and diversification streams.

Membership and Sector Support

● Foster strong relationships with membership, particularly scheme members.

● Understand and respond to member needs, ensuring services and benefits are relevant.

● Foster a strong member community through events, forums, and networking opportunities.

● Together with the NRTF team, design and deliver initiatives to grow, engage, and retain members.

● Represent NRTF and advocate for member interests at national and international events, conferences, and sector forums.

Project and Event Delivery

● Provide strategic oversight of all NRTF projects, ensuring they are well-managed, impactful and aligned with the business plan.

● Lead and represent NRTF at the Annual National Rural Touring Conference and other national events, with project managers and freelance teams responsible for delivery.

● Foster partnerships with schemes and sector organisations to co-create and deliver events and projects that serve members and raise the profile of rural touring.

Communications and Advocacy

● Provide strategic leadership for NRTF’s communications and advocacy, ensuring consistency of voice and alignment with the business plan.

● Lead sector advocacy and act as spokesperson and ambassador for rural touring.

● Maintain and develop national visibility for rural touring through partnerships, media opportunities and press engagement (with support from NRTF’s freelance press agency).

● Oversee delivery of marketing and communications, working with the Marketing & Digital Coordinator to manage campaigns, content and social media.

● Build strategic partnerships with other organisations, funders, and influencers.

HR and Operations

● Lead on recruitment, contracting, staff management, and HR policy implementation.

● Line-manage employed staff, ensuring fair and effective working conditions.

● Manage Contracts for Services for freelance teams and contractors

● Maintain organisational infrastructure, including IT, office resources.

Governance and Legal

● Support and develop the Board of Trustees, ensuring sound governance practices.

● Organise and service Board meetings, the AGM, and working groups.

● Act as Company Secretary: ensure compliance with charity and company law, maintain registers, and submit returns.

Person Specification

Essential

● Proven senior leadership within arts or cultural organisations.

● Commitment to rural/community engagement.

● Strong understanding of the UK arts funding landscape, especially ACE.

● Demonstrable experience in finance, HR, governance, and fundraising.

● Experience in project delivery.

● Strategic thinker with exceptional communication skills.

● Experience of working and engaging with key stakeholders.

● Experience working with or supporting a Board of Trustees.

● Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

● Evidence of original thinking, idea making and bold ambition.

● Caring and positive leadership style.

Desirable

● Awareness of the ethos, principles and practice of rural touring.

● Knowledge of community arts and engagement, and/or cultural networks.

● Experience in legal compliance and company secretary responsibilities.

● Understanding of contemporary cultural policy and advocacy.

● Experience in digital communications, social media, and PR.

● Experience in event management and programming.

If you are excited by this role but are not sure if you fully meet the person specification, we encourage you to reach out to our Interim Head of Operations, Jo Purseglove to discuss further.

About Impetus

Our vision is for a society where all young people, regardless of their background, can thrive in school, secure crucial qualifications, and take their first steps into the world of work on the journey to sustained employment in adulthood, for a fulfilling life.

As a leading impact funder, since 2002, Impetus has been helping the best leaders build stronger organisations delivering the most promising interventions that support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to succeed against the odds. We do this by using our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact, through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:
• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school.
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths.
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment.

These are challenges that are faced by all young people, but they disproportionately affect young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

About the role

Are you passionate about giving all young people the best chance in life? Are you a brilliant influencer and communicator who relishes harnessing great policy, research and communications to realise social change? Do you want to work in a pioneering charity with impact at its core?

Then this could be the role for you. At Impetus we are looking for our next Director of Public Affairs, someone who can inspire our brilliant Public Affairs team and spearhead our communications, policy and research work. This is an exciting senior role, joining our Senior Management Team and working alongside our CEO, board, donors, supporters, portfolio partners and the wider sector to effect real change for young people.

This is an exciting time to join Impetus. We are at an inflexion point, having welcomed a new CEO this year and implementing a new strategy focusing on strengthening and expanding our impact and influence. A big part of that is through our public affairs and communications work; whether influencing policy makers so that all young people regardless of background get the best possible chance to succeed, reducing the gaps in education and employment between young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and their better off peers, or working with government and other funders to prove and expand impactful programmes or communicating our findings, insights and message to a wider range of audiences.

The Director of Public Affairs will work with the CEO and Senior Management Team to raise our profile and influence policy, unlock and steward resource and build new partnerships, in order to facilitate growth in impact. They will do this by getting the most out of our high performing Public Affairs team, which covers policy, research, advocacy and communications - as well as working across teams and with the Board to ensure Impetus is well positioned externally.

We’re proud of the work we’ve achieved to date, developing a strong track record of high-quality research and insightful reports, significantly raising our profile through media relations and stakeholder engagement, building strong sector partnerships and coalitions to drive meaningful change, establishing a wide range of relationships across government and the sector and building strong expertise in the team. We’re delighted that you’re considering joining us to take forward this work to the next level.

Here are some examples of the types of work that the Public Affairs team delivers:
• Our monthly policy newsletter, Impetus Insights
• Our news and commentary and blogs
• Our latest research reports on school engagement, attainment and youth employment
• Our coalitions: The Youth Employment Group and Who is Losing Learning?

For more information on what we’re looking for from our Director of Public Affairs & what a typical week can look like – please view the Director of Public Affairs recruitment pack.

Key responsibilities

Fundraising and income generation

• Work with Impetus CEO and SMT to support the delivery of the Impetus strategy and business plan and deliver the public affairs milestones to time and within budget.
• Champion and contribute to embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) across all areas of Impetus' work, ensuring that EDI principles related to Impetus’ mission are reflected in advocacy, stakeholder engagement, communications and public positioning.
• Vision setting and strong line management of the Public Affairs team, developing their capabilities, representing the team at SMT and to the Board and ensuring it continues to make a valuable - and valued - contribution to the achievement of Impetus’s objectives, through building and implementing high quality work plans for the team and ensuring the wider Impetus team is aligned on these.
• Increase awareness, understanding and trust in Impetus among key stakeholders, through regular, thoughtful engagement with the sector and securing high profile media coverage.
• Raise awareness of the education and employment gaps faced by young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and what we can do to break down the barriers they face - through research, policy positioning and effective communications.
• Build a positive reputation for Impetus in government and parliament and among funders, as a source of expertise on how to improve the education and employment outcomes of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and as a trusted interlocutor and partner, building on and leveraging the many relationships already established.
• Ensure that all advocacy is supported by high quality research and evidence, with our policy and research agenda well aligned to supporting the delivery of Impetus’ strategy.
• Ensure a positive media profile, continuing to build on the base established to build awareness among the media of Impetus’s expertise and content.
• Position Impetus as a ‘sought-after’ collaborative partner for other organisations with shared objectives; including regularly representing Impetus at relevant sector events.
• Support the delivery of our fundraising strategy and the successful delivery of our events programme, in particular, our flagship Transforming Lives Dinner.
• Where appropriate, collaborate with our portfolio partners to support their public affairs work and to leverage relevant partnerships, drawing on their insights to inform Impetus’ work.
• Contribute to the successful performance of the Senior Management Team, and provide expert advice to them, as well as to Trustees, on all public affairs-related activities and in the implementation of the broader strategy, engaging with decisions and challenges across the organisation.
• Oversee the running of our Public Affairs Committee (PAC), leveraging their skills, expertise and influence for the good of Impetus.

Personal specification

Essential

• A commitment to Impetus’ mission
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Experience of leading public affairs / communications / policy at a senior level
  Strong track record of influencing (through policy, advocacy, communications, stakeholder relations)
• Strong management skills including strategy development, people management, budgeting and impact monitoring
• Experience of leading multiple and complex workstreams to achieve measurable results
• Experience of representing an organisation externally; in meetings, media interviews and on public platforms
• Exceptional verbal and written communications skills
• Presence, credibility, motivational skills, natural ability to command respect based on experience, and ability to look beyond own area of expertise
• Proven experience of building and maintaining influential external relationships and strategic partnerships
• Ability to motivate a team and work collaboratively, enlisting support from others
• Knowledge of the education and/ or young people sectors

Desirable:

• Experience of fundraising, including trusts and foundations
• Knowledge of digital communications
• Experience of data management and good analytical skills
• Understanding of, and/or lived experience of, the barriers that young people face, that contribute to the education and employment gap
• Knowledge of venture philanthropy / impact management
• Knowledge of private equity and associated industries

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

How to apply

Please click here to apply.

You will need to:

• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.
• We will also share our equal opportunities form which must also be completed.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is 11:59pm, Sunday 12th October 2025.

Interviews

First round interviews will take place: w/c 20th/27th October 2025.

Second round interviews will take place: w/c 3rd November 2025.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

Action for Refugees in Lewisham (AFRIL) is recruiting for a new Casework Manager to lead our growing and dynamic Casework and Advocacy Service.You will be joining an impactful local organisation at a crucial time in our development. We are looking for a hard working and dynamic leader who can balance the operational demands of casework and managing frontline services, with excellent HR skills and a keen interest in policy and developing partnerships. This is an exciting and integral role within a supportive and dynamic team at AFRIL. The role is available due to the advancement of the previous post-holder to a more senior post.

AFRIL’s Casework and Advocacy Service is a busy, professional team of 4 caseworkers (3 FTE) , a Community Activities Coordinator, and a number of volunteers. The team has grown significantly in the last 3 years, in response to the needs of our community and due to recognition of AFRIL’s high quality and relevant casework provision. The Casework and Advocacy Service provides AQS accredited complex casework and advice in the areas of Asylum Support, Housing, Benefits and Community Care. The service works to fill the gap, focusing on supporting those with complex vulnerabilities requiring wrap around support. AFRIL takes its services to where clients are; holding regular casework drop-in’s at asylum support hotels, community centres and at Lewisham Foodbank. AFRIL is also recently accredited by the Immigration Advice Authority to provide advice at Level 1, in both Immigration and Asylum and is currently in the process of becoming accredited at Level 2.

AFRIL’s Casework and Advocacy service uses casework trends and data to work with community members in order to engage in policy and systemic change. Utilising casework and community co-production, the service has created sector wide resources on asylum support, engaged in strategic litigation and successfully influenced local, pan-London and national policy outcomes. This is a growing area of work for the service and the successful Casework Manager will be required to balance high quality casework outputs and management of a team, while working closely with the Executive Director on emerging policy and advocacy work.

About AFRIL:

Action for Refugees in Lewisham (AFRIL) is a registered charity that supports asylum seekers, refugees, and vulnerable migrants in South East London. We support people to lift themselves out of poverty, assert their rights and rebuild their lives in the heart of our community. We  provide both crisis support to meet immediate need, and longer-term, flexible programmes to  tackle the underlying problems that lead people to be in crisis, supporting people to integrate and thrive. Our work is grounded in the values of professionalism, inclusivity, and solidarity. Our clients are at the heart of what we do and our approach is one of co-production and empowerment.

AFRIL delivers the following core services in the London Boroughs of Lewisham, Greenwich, Southwark, Bexley and Bromley:

• Rainbow Club Supplementary School - providing weekly supplementary education in English and Maths, arts, music and sports activities to children from refugee, migrant  and asylum seeking backgrounds from 4-11 years old, plus youth volunteering programme and Youth Council (NRCSE and Sanctuary Status). 

• Casework and Advocacy Service: providing AQS accredited advice, casework and legal interventions in asylum support, community care, housing, welfare benefits and related matters. Pre-Action Protocol letters to challenge unlawful public law decisions and IAA Level 1 Immigration Advice.

• Destitution Support - a fortnightly Food Bank in partnership with St Peter’s Church providing food, food vouchers, toiletries, and other essentials, alongside a warm hub with free cafe, information and support. Small grants for essential items and cash payments for food in emergencies. Securing and distributing gifts in kind, e.g. winter coats, laptops and data. 

• Allotment of Refuge - a welcoming community of food growers that supports improved health, wellbeing and integration of members, whilst protecting the local environment. 

• Immigration Project in partnership with Southwark Law Centre, providing free legal advice and representation to support people to regularise their immigration status. 

We use our frontline experience, together with our clients, to engage in policy and influencing work to improve the services and policies that impact our clients group. 

Operations Officer Wales

You will be working alongside a team of Operations Officers, supporting, inspiring and guiding DofE leaders to ensure a consistent and quality experience for the young people that they support. You’ll be managing a portfolio of existing partners in Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taff.

You will be home based, but there will be a mix of face to face and online interactions and, you will need to be prepared to travel across your patch. There may be meetings elsewhere in Wales, or across the UK, which you will be required to attend.

Whilst you won’t be working directly with young people, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are having a positive impact on their opportunities.

The DofE Award is a game-changer. We know that perseverance and passion for long-term goals is linked to success in education, life and work. Our structured programme of volunteering, physical and skills-based challenges inspire, guide and support young people to achieve.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, proactive, and effective team player to help us to give more young people from across Wales the chance to take part in the DofE, particularly those from diverse and marginalised backgrounds.

DofE Wales is proud to be a bilingual organisation and you will need to demonstrate an understanding of the bilingual context of Wales.  We welcome applications from non-Welsh speakers, who will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of the bilingual context of Wales and a commitment to developing their Welsh language skills.

You will need to have good interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders and have the skills to support and manage them to deliver high quality DofE opportunities.

We are looking for an awesome conference producer to grow our in person events offering for our community of Pupil Premium Leads across the 1,700 secondary schools in our network

Your role will be to produce face to face conferences that provide them honest, open and trusting spaces to share how they really achieve their results in practice.

Why?

So Pupil Premium Leads and Champions can learn what’s working (and what isn’t), so they can deliver the best education possible to all of their students, regardless of their background

What's the role?

Your job will be to produce in person conferences, with a difference, for Pupil Premium Leads in 

Events where practitioners don’t just share what’s worked but also what hasn’t. Openly and transparently.

The aim is to curate powerful and practical warts and all stories, which attendees can ask questions about and dig deep into each other's work.

• What we avoid
  • Glossy key notes delivered by non serving leaders telling serving leaders what to do
  • Only sharing their successes
  • Surface level panels that don’t say anything of substance about how leaders do what they do
  • Lots of passive sitting and listening in big audiences
  • Not developing deep and lasting relationships between attendees
  • Where the events are geared entirely towards promoting products and services more than the amazing PPM leaders and their practice
• What we deliver
• Dedicated to giving serving Pupil Premium Leaders - from diverse backgrounds - to the platform to share their work
• Sharing openly, honestly and transparently the challenges as well as the wins
• Small group discussions about very specific topics where attendees can go deep
• Workshop formats allowing speakers and attendees to learn from each other via intimate conversations
• Where we do everything we can to help attendees get to know each other, stay in touch and work together long term.

On the speaker/content side, you’ll:

• research what’s important to Pupil Premium Leaders

• find serving Pupil Premium Leaders who have expertise in those areas

• Invite and book them to be speakers and

• support them to be their best on the day.

On the attendee/learning/ side, you’ll:

• communicate the offering

• design sign up and onboarding processes

• promote the event across our social media and email channels and

• ensure delegates have everything they need to get the best out of the event.

On both sides you’ll:

• lead the follow up and evaluation of the events.

On the partnerships side you’ll:

• generate leads from potential partners and sponsor

• contact them with information about sponsorship packages

• manage the relationships with partners

• Events where sponsors provide thought leadership not sales pitches​

�� How you’ll be driving our mission forward

Researching topics that matter to Pupil Premium Leaders right now

• Emailing/messaging them to ask what they’ve had success with and need help with

• Creating a database of strengths and needs across the community

• Reading education press, policy and practitioner led blogs.

• Engaging with conversations on social media

Finding, inviting and booking speakers

• Using national datasets to find schools and Pupil Premium Leaders who are succeeding against the odds

• Digging into PPM practice and Pupil Premium Leaders’ blogs/posts to build a list of possible speakers

• Crafting emails that invite Pupil Premium Leaders you may have never met to speak at the conference

• Following up and leading Pupil Premium Leaders through the speaker onboarding journey

Supporting speakers to be their best

• Designing editorial guidelines and communicating them with speakers

• Supporting them to find a focus for their sessions and feeding back on the content

• Gathering pre-event information such as speaker details, access need, session titles/objectives and resources etc

• Automating workflows and emails using Zapier and Airtable

• Sharing all pre-event information they need in good time

Designing attendee sign up and welcoming processes

• Designing and building pre-event registration processes and forms

• Gathering pre-event information from attendees eg attendee details, access/dietary needs and 

• Automating workflows and emails using Zapier and Airtable

• Sharing all pre-event information so they can get the most out of the conferences

Promoting the event across our channels

• Working with a designer to commission graphics

• Writing social media posts on LinkedIn and Twitter

• Working with the Pupil Premium Leaders who are speaking to write sharable, top of funnel social media posts that inspire, entertain and inform Pupil Premium Leaders

• Designing, writing building email workflows and drip campaigns in our CRM (Hubspot)

Ensuring delegates have everything they need to get the most out of the conferences

• Tracking and auditing that all delegates have shared required pre-event information

• Writing succinct emails which delivered at the right time in a way that respects their workload and capacity

Evaluating the success of the conferences.

• Designing and building post event evaluation forms

• Seek, gather and analyse customer feedback and user data to ensure member success.

• Tracking and auditing evaluation completion

• Following up with both speakers and delegates to maximise

Who are you?

• A values driven educationalist
• Technophilic project manager who has a spreadsheet for everything
• Curious and empathic relationship builder
• Entrepreneurial, innovative and flexible
• Analytical but also a content-minded story finder and teller
• Feedback embracing learner in the pursuit of mastery of your craft

What experience and track record do you have?

It’s not essential you tick every box. But the more boxes you can tick the better. It goes without saying, we can help you gain and learn from the experiences you haven’t had yet.

• Education and/or teaching: Knowing how the MAT and schools system works is a must. Knowing who does what PPM role in schools will help bring the right people in the right conversations and the right time. Knowing and understanding the kinds of problems and types of conversations school leaders and teachers is also essential for this role

• Conference production: researching topics, inviting and booking speakers, crafting promotional materials, shouting loudly and proudly about the events and filling up spaces.

• Project management: Planning, tracking and delivering on project objectives across several workflows on time, every time. Managing multiple audiences who are likely to be at different stages of their engagement cycle.

• Customer Relationship Management: designing, building and automating CRMs including sales pipeline design and management eg Hubspot and Airtable

• Copywriting (and digital marketing and email workflow design): designing and writing posts and emails that convert - whether than be speaker invitations, promotional posts or conference onboarding emails.

• Digital marketing integration and automation: integrating and automating digital marketing platforms like eg MailChmip, Hubspot, Airtable and Zapier. Automating drip campaigns and email workflows.

What are the benefits?

• Exposure to the most inspirational and impactful PPM Leaders in the country 

• Opportunity to work within an early-stage, mission-driven organisation and shape its direction

• Flexible working culture/flexible working hours

• Pro rata £28,000-£33,000 dependent on experience

• Project-based and/or part-time contract based on performance milestones for the right candidate available - this role is approximately 3 days a week for 16 weeks a year: October-February. Possibility to expand conference work to new audiences if successful.

• Free annual membership to all of our premium spaces across the community worth up to £1,197+VAT.

• Dramatically grow your network of school leaders

Timeline:

• Applications open: 27th August 2025

• Deadline for applications: midnight Sunday 14th September

• First interviews: Starting week of 22nd September,

• Second interview: Starting week beginning 29th September,

• Notification of decision: by 3rd October,

• Start date: week beginning 6th October

We expect this to be a popular role. We will be inviting people to interview on a rolling basis. We advise submitting an application early.

How do you apply?

To apply for the role please send complete this application form no later than Sunday 7th September at midnight:

For the application form you’ll need:

1. CV - max 2 sides

2. Covering letter - outlining

   1. why you want to apply

   2. how your values, knowledge, skills and experience make you the best person for the role.

   3. a PS section at the bottom with confirmation of where you saw the job role; confirmation of your current salary and notice period; whether you have the right to work in the UK and a valid criminal check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS); any links to any portfolios/bodies of work you have completed in the past to demonstrate what you are capable of (this could be reports, writing, performance figures, social media campaigns, articles, videos); and indication of whether your availability will be limited during the recruitment period.

3. Contact details of references

For an informal and confidential discussion about the role prior to application, please download the attached job ad pdf.

Team: Community Operations

Location: Hybrid covering Suffolk and Norfolk

Work pattern: 21 hours per week, 7 hours per day with a flexible working pattern

Salary: Up to £25,650.43 per year 

Contract: Permanent

We are the UK’s largest cat welfare charity. All over the country, our passionate employees, volunteers and supporters are using their kindness and expertise to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them.

Will you join us and make life better for cats?

Responsibilities of our Branch Development Manager:

• accountable for the development, growth and local governance of branches within a designated area
• provide a solution-driven approach with the aim of helping more cats through the effective engagement of local volunteers
• develop and deliver an area plan that captures the importance of volunteer engagement, recruitment, support, enabling and succession planning to ultimately achieve branch growth and sustainability.
• manage local area budgets and have a clear oversight of branch income and expenditure plans.

About the team:

• our branch network is made up of groups of volunteers, led by a Branch Team Leader and overseen by a branch committee.
• our branch volunteers foster cats until they are ready to re-home, raise funds to directly help the cats in their care, spread vital cat welfare messages across to members of the public, carry out trap-neuter-return activity, and much more!
• The team is made up of an Operations Manager, Branch Development Managers, Centre Managers and a Cat Welfare Advisor

What we’re looking for in our Branch Development Manager:

• proven experience of leading and managing volunteers
• proven management/team leadership experience including drafting operational plans
• experience of planning and implementing new processes and systems across a multi-site organisation
• proficient IT skills, including all aspects of Microsoft Office relevant packages and knowledge of database management
• personal and professional manner and credibility that generate trust and confidence in others
• hold current driving licence and access to own vehicle

What we can offer you:

• range of health benefits
• 26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service
• Salary Finance, which empowers you to take control of your financial wellbeing
• and much more, which you can learn about

Interested? Here’s how to apply:

Application closing date: 23 September 2025

Interview date: 2nd October 2025

Please note, we do not accept applications or speculative CVs from agencies.

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. Please note, applications received after the closing date may not be responded to.

If you’re enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable.  You may be just the right candidate. 

If successful, your recruitment journey will include:

1. anonymised application form
2. interview with presentation tbc

Please note, the process may change slightly dependent on application numbers. We will inform you of any relevant changes.

Please email us if you require any adjustments to be made for you to complete your application or to participate in the recruitment journey.

WE ARE SEEKING THE HEAD OF GROWING FAITH AND FLOURISH

About the Department/Role

The National Society for Education (NSE) is a royal-chartered charity and National Church Institution at the forefront of Church and community schools across England and Wales. We champion leadership, influence policy, and foster spiritual growth in young people and adults alike.

As part of the Church of England's commitment to a younger, more diverse future, we're working with diocesan partners, academy trusts, and chaplaincies to grow faith and nurture the next generation of leaders. We're also driving national initiatives like Growing Faith, focused on the vital link between church, home and school.

The NSE is working with the Vision and Strategy team to help deliver this vision through a range of projects in our 'Growing Faith' pillar which focus on the intersection between church, home and school; aiming to develop the faith life of children and young people, whilst also growing young leaders.

We are a dynamic team, working remotely from our homes around the country. We gather regularly online and also have in-person team days throughout the year.

What you'll be doing

The National Society for Education is seeking an inspiring and visionary leader to head its Growing Faith and Young Leaders workstream - a strategic post within our Senior Leadership Team (SLT). This dynamic role will shape and deliver key national initiatives including the Growing Faith Foundation, FLOURISH Network of Worshipping Communities, and a suite of leadership programmes such as the Archbishops' Young Leaders Award, Flourishing Young Leaders, and Young Voices at General Synod.

Summary of main responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across our core Growing Faith workstream, managing senior team leads and national programme heads
• Strategically overseeing the implementation of leadership development programmes for adult and young leaders of mission and ministry with children and young people within the FLOURISH movement
• Develop long-term strategic partnerships with diocese, school trust, school/college and church leaders to enable the effective embedding of FLOURISH, Growing Faith Foundation, and Young Leaders programmes at all levels
• Champion safeguarding excellence and spiritual leadership through inclusive practices and worship
• Drive innovation in leadership development for children (4-18) and young adults (18-25)
• Embed a culture of faith-led partnership between church, school and household
• Oversee the national rollout of FLOURISH communities - aiming for 450 sites by 2030
• Shape research, resource planning and evaluation strategies across the team
• Collaborate with diocesan, NCI and national stakeholders on transformative church revitalisation

Key role requirements

• An enhanced DBS check will be required as part of our pre-employment checks.
• This post is subject to an occupational requirement that the holder be a communicant Anglican under Part 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010.

About You

The Church of England is for everyone and we want to reflect the diversity of the community the Church serves across the whole country. Therefore, while of course we welcome all applications from interested and suitably experienced people, we would particularly welcome applicants from UK Minoritised Ethnicities (UKME)/Global Majority Heritage (GMH) and other under-represented groups. As a Disability Confident employer, we are committed to recruiting disabled people. We offer interviews to disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the role.

You will need to be/have:

• Of Christian faith and a communicant member of the Church of England
• Experience leading high-performing teams and influencing senior stakeholders
• Knowledge of educational and diocesan landscapes
• Strong safeguarding awareness and budgetary insight
• Inspirational public speaking and writing skills
• Commitment to diversity, collaboration and spiritual formation
• Ability to analyse qualitative and quantitative data
• A qualification in theology, education, youth work or leadership
• Experience in CRM/LMS systems, remote team management, GDPR and Health & Safety oversight
• A clear understanding of/commitment to the Church of England's Education network and its current and future needs

Please refer to the Job Description for more information about the role and person specification.

What we offer

Your Salary

• A salary of £82,157 per annum, plus age-related pension contributions between 8-15% of salary. We will also match any pension contributions you make up to an additional 3% of your salary.

Your Benefits

• 30 days annual leave plus eight bank holidays, three additional days (pro-rated if working part-time).
• We welcome all flexible working arrangement requests. This is looked at in a case-by-case scenario and if this fits within the department's needs. We try to be as flexible as we can in your work pattern to support you with other commitments, and to give a good work-life balance.
• We offer many services and initiatives under our Family Friendly Programme, some of these include enhanced Maternity Leave initiative, Adoption Leave, Paternity Leave, & Shared Parental Leave. Structured induction programme and access to a range of development opportunities including apprenticeships.

• Automatic enrolment and access to Medicash (one of the UK's leading health cash plan providers), providing you with many services including reimbursements of routine dental treatment, optical, specialist consultations, and therapy treatments. Unlimited access to virtual GP & Private prescription service and health & Stress related helplines.

• Access to Occupational Health, and an Employee Assistance Programme 
• Access to the Department of Education Restaurant and Westminster Abbey with a plus-one guest.
• Apply for eligibility for an Eyecare voucher.
• Opportunity to join the Civil Service Sports & Social Club, and get involved in a range of staff networks, groups and societies.