The Paul Hamlyn Foundation (PHF) is one of the UK’s largest independent grant-making foundations. We use our resources to support social change, working towards a just and equitable society in which everyone, especially young people, can realise their full potential and lead fulfilling, creative lives.
Contract: Fixed-term contract – 18 months
Hours: Full-time post, 35 hours per week
Salary: c. £54,000 per annum
Location: London / Hybrid (40% of time in our central London offices)
Role Overview
We are seeking a mission-driven senior leader to shape and deliver our work supporting young people across the UK.
As Head of Programme – Young People, you will shape and drive the Foundation’s grant-making strategy in support of young people, ensuring our funding delivers systemic change and champions youth-led approaches. You will lead the Youth Fund and related initiatives, setting direction, overseeing grant-making, and influencing practice across the youth sector.
As Head of Programme – Young People, you will lead the strategic development, direction and delivery of the Foundation’s Youth Fund and related initiatives. You will oversee grant-making, champion youth-led practice, and influence sector-wide learning and collaboration.
Reporting to the Director of Grants, you will have direct responsibility for a high-performing team composed of two Grants Managers and one Grants Assistant. You will oversee the strategic development and delivery of the Youth Fund and Follow-on Fund, ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s priorities and best practices in youth-focused grant-making.
You will work closely with funded organisations, trustees, advisors, and sector partners to strengthen their impact, embed learning, and ensure our funding supports long-term systemic change.
About You
We’re looking for a strategic, values-led leader with:
- Significant experience in the youth, charity or civil society sector, with a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing young people.
- Deep knowledge of youth policy and practice, and the ability to translate that insight into impactful funding and support for organisations.
- Proven expertise in grant-making, including assessment, due diligence, monitoring and learning.
- Strong leadership and people management skills, able to develop and motivate teams and foster a collaborative, inclusive culture.
- A track record of working in partnership with funded organisations and sector stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
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